Simple Pump motors provide automated water pumping when hand operation isn't practical or desired. This guide covers recommended uses and proper configuration for optimal performance.
Motor Options
24V DC Motor
- Maximum TDH: 225 feet (with 100CA cylinder)
- Best for: Deeper wells, solar systems
- Power draw: ~90-150 watts
- Efficiency: Higher than 12V at depth
12V DC Motor
- Maximum TDH: Lower than 24V
- Best for: Shallower wells, vehicle battery backup
- Power draw: ~80-120 watts
- Convenience: Common 12V battery compatibility
Recommended Uses
Primary Automated Water
When Simple Pump is your primary water source:
- Motor provides daily water without manual effort
- Solar power for off-grid operation
- Timer or float switch automation
- Recommended: 24V for efficiency
Backup During Outages
When submersible fails or power is out:
- Motor allows hands-free operation
- Battery backup keeps water flowing
- Can switch to hand operation if needed
Solar-Powered System
For renewable energy water pumping:
- 24V motor matches solar panel output
- Direct solar or battery-backed
- Federal tax credit may apply
- Sized for daily water needs
Agricultural/Stock Watering
For livestock or irrigation:
- Timer-controlled filling
- Float switch automation
- Solar-powered remote locations
Depth Limitations with Motor
Motor operation has lower depth limits than hand operation. Total Dynamic Head (TDH) includes static water level plus pressure head.
Maximum Motor Depth by Cylinder
| Cylinder | Hand Max | Motor Max TDH |
|---|---|---|
| 100CA | 325 ft | 225 ft |
| 125CA | 225 ft | 150 ft |
| 200CA | 110 ft | 60 ft |
Calculating TDH
Formula: TDH = Static Water Level + Pressure Head
Pressure Head: Tank pressure × 2.31 feet per PSI
Example:
- Static water: 150 feet
- Pressure tank: 50 PSI
- Pressure head: 50 × 2.31 = 115.5 feet
- Total TDH: 265.5 feet (exceeds 24V 100CA limit)
Motor Configuration Components
Required Components
- HD Pump Head Assembly (motor-compatible)
- Motor Drive Assembly (12V or 24V)
- Power source (batteries, solar, AC charger)
Recommended Additions
- Float switch (prevents dry running)
- Timer (scheduled operation)
- Pressure switch (tank systems)
- Charge controller (solar systems)
Power Source Configuration
Battery-Powered
- Deep-cycle batteries only (not starting batteries)
- 24V system: Two 12V batteries in series
- 12V system: Single battery
- Maintain charge with solar or AC
Direct Solar
- Panels connect to motor controller
- Pumps during daylight hours
- Simplest off-grid setup
- Best for tank filling
Solar with Battery
- Panels charge battery bank
- Pump anytime from batteries
- More consistent operation
- Higher initial cost
AC Charging
- Battery charger maintains charge
- Backup during outages
- Grid-tied convenience
- Best of both worlds
Duty Cycle Recommendations
Intermittent Operation (Recommended)
- Pump in cycles, not continuously
- Allow motor cooling between runs
- Use timer for scheduled operation
- Float switch prevents overrun
Avoid Continuous Operation
- Motors designed for intermittent use
- Continuous running causes heat buildup
- May shorten motor life
- Timer prevents excessive runtime
Protection and Safety
Motor Protection
- Fuse or circuit breaker required
- Surge protection for solar systems
- Proper wire gauge for current
Dry Run Protection
- Float switch recommended
- Prevents pumping air
- Protects seals from dry operation
Maintenance
Motor Brushes
- Replace after ~5,000 hours
- Brush kit available
- Simple replacement procedure
Annual Inspection
- Check connections
- Verify operation
- Monitor brush wear
- Clean as needed