Simple Pump is designed to lift water from impressive depths, making it suitable for most residential wells in North America.
Maximum Pumping Depths
Hand Operation
- Maximum: 325 feet static water level
- Cylinder: 100CA required for maximum depth
- Conditions: Pumping to ground level at ambient pressure
Motorized Operation (24V)
- Maximum TDH: 225 feet with 100CA cylinder
- Note: Total Dynamic Head includes water depth plus pressure head
Depth by Cylinder Model
| Cylinder | Hand Max (SWL) | Motor Max (TDH) | Output/Stroke |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100CA | 325 ft | 225 ft | 4.5 oz |
| 125CA | 225 ft | 150 ft | 8.5 oz |
| 200CA | 110 ft | 60 ft | 20 oz |
Understanding the Measurements
Static Water Level (SWL)
- Distance from ground to top of water
- Measured when pump is not running
- Key measurement for hand pump sizing
Total Dynamic Head (TDH)
- Used for motorized pumping
- Includes water depth plus pressure head
- TDH = SWL + (PSI × 2.31 feet)
Why Motor Limits Are Lower
Motor operation at depth creates additional factors:
- Motor heat generation
- Consistent cycling stress
- Conservative rating for reliability
Factors That Affect Practical Depth
Pumping Into Pressure
Pressure systems reduce effective depth:
- 40 PSI = 92 feet of head
- 50 PSI = 116 feet of head
- Subtract from maximum depth
Example:
- 100CA max: 325 feet
- Minus 50 PSI head: 116 feet
- Effective depth: 209 feet
Physical Effort
Deeper water requires more effort:
- Consider smaller cylinder (100CA)
- Extended lever arm helps
- Motor option for regular use
Water Level Variation
Account for seasonal changes:
- Use lowest water level for sizing
- Summer/drought levels typically lowest
- Well records may show variation
Comparing to Other Hand Pumps
Suction Pumps
Traditional pitcher pumps:
- Maximum: 25 feet at sea level
- Uses suction (atmospheric) lift
- Very limited depth
Simple Pump Deep Well
Uses positive displacement:
- Maximum: 325 feet
- Piston pushes water up
- Far exceeds suction pumps
Real-World Applications
Most Residential Wells
The majority of residential wells have:
- Static water levels under 200 feet
- Simple Pump handles easily
- Cylinder choice based on depth
Deep Wells (200-325 ft)
For the deepest wells:
- 100CA cylinder required
- More strokes per gallon
- Still manageable effort
- Motor highly recommended
Very Deep Wells (325+ ft)
Beyond 325 feet:
- Exceeds hand pump capability
- Other solutions required
- Contact us for alternatives
Getting Your Depth
To determine what you need:
- Find static water level - Check well records or measure
- Note pressure requirements - If pumping into pressure tank
- Calculate total head - Add together
- Select cylinder - Based on total