We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Machinery

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are Booster Pumps?

By Carol Francois
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 56,795
Share

Booster pumps are designed to smooth out water pressure in areas where the flows are highly variable. This type of pump is essential in water management systems and is used in a wide range of public and private settings. The booster pump itself is installed at the connection point between the water supply pipe and the primary building.

The vast majority of booster pumps are installed in rural properties. Indoor plumbing works within a very simple, closed loop. The water is provided to the property from a main water management system. When a tap is turned on, vacuum pressure is created, pulling the water up along with the air. When the tap is turned off, the system is closed.

In installations where the water flows are inconsistent, additional time is required to create sufficient pressure to pull the water up to the tap. This can result in excess pressure on pipes and connecting joints. When the water finally flows, it may include excess air, causing it to flow unevenly.

There are two types of booster pumps: single stage and multiple stage. A single stage pump is attached to the end of the water supply pipe and can be repaired without impacting any other water delivery pipes. The entire process to install a single stage pump takes between three to five days, depending on the location and overall condition of the water pipes.

A multiple stage booster uses centrifugal force to actively pull the water up into the system for improved delivery time. The primary purpose of these systems is for locations using underground water supplies. In this system, there is an automatic transfer of the water into the distribution system. Most people use these booster pumps for light irrigation purposes.

When reviewing the different booster pump options, take the time to determine your water needs. For example, if the pump is used to support irrigation, make sure it is installed next to or near the irrigation main. Read about the performance guarantee and any required maintenance before installation. The physical location of the pump is an important consideration. Avoid placing the pump anywhere with limited or difficult access, as this will become a challenge if repairs are required.

Research the different pump installation firms and be sure to check all references. This is a very specialized product, and it is important to select a firm with extensive experience in the installation, repair, and maintenance of these systems. Look for firms with a work guarantee and take the time to inspect the work upon completion.

Share
About Mechanics is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By Gerry54 — On May 16, 2011

I used a small, domestic booster pump in a house I used to live in. I think it was a multiple stage booster pump; it pulled water from the well, up into the house, rather than being placed in the well and pushing up the water. I really prefer the multipump type.

Having the pump right up at the surface where I can see it, and check the valves myself made it easy to work on. I think it's a good idea to know your own house, to know how everything works, so if there is a breakdown you can figure out what it is, and maybe fix it yourself.

By anon73564 — On Mar 28, 2010

What are the details of the entire system required for further development?

Share
https://www.aboutmechanics.com/what-are-booster-pumps.htm
Copy this link
About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.