The LBLD motor and Simple Pump Solar Kit are discontinued for new orders. Simple Pump stopped selling them on March 31, 2026. If you already own one, nothing changes: parts, service, and warranty continue through the end of 2036. See LBLD owner support.
Setting up automated or solar pumping now? The current path is the Inline Manual-Solar Well Pump System. It pairs a WORKHORSE Narrow Series solar submersible with your Simple Pump using the Inline Dual-Pump Valve Assembly.
Simple Pump offers flexible installation options to match your home's water system. This guide covers the most common configurations for residential use.
Configuration 1: Emergency Backup (Most Common)
Overview
Simple Pump installed alongside existing submersible for backup water access during power outages.
Setup
- Simple Pump shares well with submersible
- Pump to bucket or portable container
- No permanent plumbing connection
- Hand operation only
Advantages
- Lowest cost configuration
- Simplest installation
- No interference with existing system
- Ready when needed
Best For
- Emergency preparedness
- Occasional backup use
- Budget-conscious installations
Configuration 2: Pressure Tank Connection
Overview
Simple Pump connects to your home's pressure tank for whole-house backup water.
Setup Options
Via Pitless Adapter:
- Simple Pump ties into existing pitless
- Shares underground piping with submersible
- Delivers to pressure tank automatically
Direct Connection:
- Separate line from pump to pressure tank
- Check valve prevents backflow
- Manual valve to isolate when not in use
Components Needed
- Check valve (prevents backflow)
- Isolation valve
- Pressure gauge
- Appropriate fittings
Advantages
- Whole-house water during outages
- Uses existing pressure tank
- Normal faucet operation
Considerations
- More complex installation
- Professional installation recommended
- Must account for pressure in depth calculation
Configuration 3: Dedicated Simple Pump System
Overview
Simple Pump as primary or sole water source, not sharing with submersible.
Setup
- Simple Pump only in well
- Can connect to pressure tank
- Optional Inline Manual-Solar system for automation
Advantages
- Simpler well configuration
- Maximum clearance in casing
- Full system control
- Off-grid capable
Best For
- Off-grid properties
- No existing submersible
- Primary water source needs
Configuration 4: Inline Manual-Solar (Automated and Solar)
Overview
For hands-free, off-grid pumping, the current path is the Inline Manual-Solar Well Pump System. It pairs a WORKHORSE Narrow Series solar submersible with your Simple Pump hand pump using the Inline Dual-Pump Valve Assembly. The older LBLD motor and Simple Pump Solar Kit are discontinued for new orders (existing owners supported through end of 2036).
Setup Components
- WORKHORSE Narrow Series solar submersible
- Inline Dual-Pump Valve Assembly
- Solar panels and controller
- Your Simple Pump hand pump (manual backup)
Advantages
- Automated daily water
- No utility power required
- Hand operation always available as backup
Best For
- Off-grid homes
- Remote properties
- Areas with frequent outages
Configuration 5: Stock Tank / Irrigation
Overview
Simple Pump dedicated to filling stock tanks or irrigation systems.
Setup
- Pump to storage tank
- Gravity feed to distribution
- Inline Manual-Solar system for automated filling
- Timer or float control
Advantages
- Dedicated agricultural use
- Separate from house water
- Scalable to needs
Best For
- Livestock watering
- Garden irrigation
- Agricultural applications
Choosing Your Configuration
Decision Factors
Budget:
- Basic backup: Lowest cost
- Pressure connection: Moderate
- Inline Manual-Solar system: Higher investment
Usage:
- Occasional emergency: Basic backup
- Regular outages: Pressure connection
- Daily primary: Inline Manual-Solar system
Technical Comfort:
- DIY capable: Basic backup
- Some plumbing skill: Pressure connection
- Professional recommended: Complex systems
Installation Considerations
For All Configurations
Homeowners MUST have a helper when installing or uninstalling any Simple Pump. This is a safety requirement, not a suggestion.
Electrical Safety
- Disconnect submersible power before any work
- Lock out power source
- Follow electrical codes for motor installations
Plumbing Codes
- Check local requirements
- Permits may be required
- Backflow prevention important