Solar water pumps come in all shapes, sizes, and with different flow rates, and water lifting capacity. While they are all good for the environment, not all pumps can cater to your irrigational needs. The smaller pumps can be used to water small pieces of residential land with fewer plants, while the high-power pumps are more suitable for irrigating gardens and vast farms.
Depending on your specific needs, you can either choose a surface pump or look for a submersible option; however, there are many options that can work as both.
To help choose the right solar pump for your needs, I’ve compiled a list of pumps, each offering different rates of flow and spray patterns for various settings including, small gardens and commercial farms. Each unit has its own unique features that make it stand out from the rest of the products on the list.
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Our Top Picks at a Glance
- ECO-WORTHY 100W Solar Pump Kit – Top Rated
- Lewisia Solar Pump – Powerful Unit
- BACOENG DC 12V Farm & Ranch Solar Water Pump – Best for Commercial Use
- SEAFLO Well Water pump
- ECO-WORTHY Solar Water Pump Kit – Durable
- Solariver Solar Water Pump Kit – Long-lasting
- LEDGLE 5W Solar Fountain – Economical
- MNP SP50 Pond Pump kit – Most Eco-friendly option
Now that you know the best solar pumps, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty and explore which one is best for your needs.
1. ECO-WORTHY 100W Solar Water Pump Kit
ECO-WORTHY 100W solar water pump kit is a complete package for farm and crop irrigation. The kit comes with a 100w solar panel, a 12V solar pump, a 20A LCD display PWM controller, and 2 pieces of 16ft cables with connectors.
The ECO-WORTHY 100W kit is a great option for irrigation and small gardens with its 16ft cables that allow you to water even the remote areas of land. To extend the length of the cables, you can simply add cable extensions.
The lightweight 12V pump is easy to carry and has a remarkable flow rate of 1,110 gallons per hour. This impressive rate of water flow comes with a power of 5800rpm. This makes the pump an impressive tool for high delivery volume and high pressure. It’s also one of the best solar pumps for filling large tankers and watering large farms and gardens.
The installation is easy and all the components hook up without any difficulty. The 20A charge controller comes in 4 different work modes to protect the pump from overworking and getting damaged. This allows the pump to last long without worrying about replacements.
What we liked
- The GPH rating is higher than most pumps on the list
- The lightweight pump is portable
- Easy installation
What we didn’t like
- Does not come with a battery
2. Lewisia Solar Pump
The Lewisia solar pump kit includes a separate 1.5W solar panel and a 10-feet cord connected to the pump. The pump has a water inlet strainer meant to be fully submerged in water for optimal performance. Similar to the Solartec pump, the Lewisia pump also comes with four different nozzle heads that you can use to adjust the flow and water pattern. Depending on the type of nozzle head you use, the pump can make water reach up to a height of 55 cm.
The kit features a polycrystalline silicon panel which isn’t as efficient as a monocrystalline panel. The framework of the solar panel and pump is made of durable ABS plastic that contributes to the longevity of the unit. An additional feature in this pump is the net-bag filter that saves the pump from clogging up with dirt.
The 10-feet cord allows easy placement throughout your home or garden. This 0.36 kg solar water pump kit is easy to carry and install. You don’t need any other accessories or batteries to operate the pump.
Make sure that the water is clean so it doesn’t damage the water pump. Also, ensure that you clean the pump regularly to avoid any clogging or damage. The pump is suitable for birdbaths, ponds, pools, and aquariums.
What we liked
- Portable, lightweight unit
- Water can reach up to a height of 55 cm, compared to 50 cm by Solatec
- Four different nozzle heads for adjusting flow and water pattern
- 3m cord for mobility
What we didn’t like
- The kit doesn’t include a battery
- Very small pump
3. BACOENG DC 12V Farm & Ranch Solar Water Pump
The BACOENG DC ranch solar water pump is a single-unit pump that can be used in pools, ponds, gardens, as well as orchards, and small farms. Unlike the other water pumps, the BACOENG pump is an extensive kit that comes with a 12V, 100W silicon solar panel, a 20A controller, a 70AH battery, and a powerful pump.
The 70AH battery stores enough solar energy to run the pump at night. A water flow of 20 GPM (gallons per minute) allows ample water supply to irrigate small farms or gardens. Another feature of this powerful solar water pump kit is the 20ft head that can conveniently pump water from a depth of up to 6m. This makes the pump twice as beneficial to a farmer compared to other solar pumps.
To prevent inhalation of sludge and impurities, 1cm high feet keep the pump’s base elevated. Another 3mm filter port collects all the pollutants. However, it’s best if you avoid using the pump in dirty water to prevent failure of the unit.
Installation and maintenance are straightforward. Cleaning the pump regularly can help prevent any damage or corrosion to the rubber seal ring. With a simple structure, you can use the water pump even on cloudy days and at nights using the solar rechargeable battery.
What we liked
- Can operate at night and on cloudy days
- The 6m cord is twice as large as the one that comes with Lewisia
- Comes with a filter to prevent clogging
- 20 GPM flow of water
What we didn’t like
- Can rust if left in alkaline water
4. SEAFLO Well Water pump
SEAFLO offers a submersible water pump with a 9ft cable. This single-unit solar water pump is a rugged 24v solar pump that can deliver water at a rate of 1.6GPM. The maximum lift of 230ft makes this unit a perfect choice for pumping well water and irrigation. It has a maximum submersion of 100ft, which allows you to access a large volume of groundwater.
A 50-micron stainless steel inlet screen protects the pump from consuming algae and other large contaminants in water. The pump can easily fit a 4.09 inches diameter well or larger.
The body of the water pump is made of high-quality, high-strength plastic that does not get damaged underwater. While the body is made of strong plastic, it only weighs around 6 pounds which makes the pump very easy to carry and install.
The pump does not come with solar panels or solar cells. However, it can easily be connected to any solar panel system or wind generator system. The unique, waterproof cable avoids any leakage and condensation and saves itself from damage.
What we liked
- Robust water pump
- Can be attached with solar panels and wind generators
- 230 ft lift and 100 ft submersion
What we didn’t like
- Doesn’t come with solar panels
- Doesn’t have a battery
5. ECO-WORTHY Solar Water Pump Kit System
ECO-WORTHY solar pump kit is a potent water pump system, suitable for different landscapes and waterscapes, including farmland irrigation, pumping well water, pumping pond water, watering gardens, and domestic water supply.
The kit includes two 100W monocrystalline solar panels, a 12V submersible pump, a 20A charge controller, a 16ft cable with an adapter for lifting and supplying water, and a pair of Y branch connectors to connect the panels.
The monocrystalline panels are highly efficient in producing solar energy to power the pump. You can hardly not any delay between powering the panels and the starting up of the pump. The 16ft cable makes it an excellent choice for pumping water from ponds, wells, rivers, and tankers.
Given the sensitivity of the panels, any change in weather, sunlight exposure, or cloud cover can alter the pump’s functionality. A thermally protected magnetic brushless motor technology powers the pump and provides a maximum water flow of 1.6 GPM.
The 16ft cable is corrosion-resistant with a copper core. Like the Lewisia solar pump, this pump also contains a stainless-steel strainer at the top to eradicate dirt, algae, and impurities. The double-layer helps keep all contaminants away while pumping and lifting water. The durable aluminum frame is corrosion-proof, allowing you to submerge the pump in water without worrying about rust.
A unique feature of the ECO-WORTHY solar kit is the power regulator that enables you to adjust the intensity of flow. It comes with 4 work modes that you can switch between according to usage. It also has a motor cooling system that helps keep the motor cool and increases the life of the water pump.
What we liked
- Compact design easy to carry
- Charge controller to control power usage
- Unique motor cooling technology
- Double layer strainer
What we didn’t like
- Assembly can get tiring
- Average maximum water flow capacity (1.6 GPM) compared to some competitors on the list
6. Solariver Solar Water Pump Kit
The Solariver solar water pump is another powerful pump that made its way to our list of best solar pumps. The package contains a submersible water pump with a maximum water flow of 360 gallons per hour, a 20W solar panel with an aluminum frame, solar panel stakes, two 16ft wires with quick connectors, and three different styled spray heads for adjusting the flow.
The Solariver solar water pump system can quickly move large volumes of water, making it perfect for large water bodies and water features like ponds, streams, hydroponics, animal troughs, or greenhouses. The 16ft power cable provides excellent mobility and flexibility in pumping and supplying water. You can add another 16ft wire piece to make watering easier in a large outdoor environment.
The submersible water pump uses a brushless dc motor known for its durability and efficiency. This brushless motor technology is a reason for the massive 20,000+ hours lifespan of the kit. The pump also includes three different nozzle heads to adjust and control the flow and spray pattern. Similar to the ECO-WORTHY kit, the Solariver kit allows users to regulate the flow of water.
The most compelling part of the pump is the removable prefilter. It prevents clogging by filtering impurities from entering and obstructing the impeller. It’s an environmentally friendly filter and non-toxic to marine life.
Since the kit operates on solar energy, its efficiency depends on the amount of direct sunlight that it receives. The system contains no batteries, which means that it will operate only when sunlight hits the panels.
What we liked
- Eco-friendly aluminum frame
- Long lifespan
- Removable prefilter
What we didn’t like
- No battery backup
7. LEDGLE 5W Solar Fountain Pump
The LEDGLE solar fountain is a compact system with a maximum water flow capacity of 100 gallons per hour. It works great for residential use, including birdbaths, gardens, ponds, and aquariums.
Relying only on solar energy for power, this system comes without any electrical components or batteries. The solar fountain is powered using a polycrystalline silicon solar panel with a durable aluminum frame like the Lewisia solar water pump kit.
Like all its rivals, the LEDGLE solar fountain also comes equipped with different nozzles to adjust the flow and spray patterns. The lack of any switches, plugs, and batteries makes installation hassle-free. A 128-inch wire with the kit makes it an ideal choice for an outdoor environment.
This unit’s maximum height of water flow is 120cm, which is greater than most pumps on this list. In direct sunlight, the solar fountain is more likely to achieve its maximum flow height.
What we liked
- Wide spraying scope
- Durable abs plastic
- Budget-friendly
- Easy assembly
What we didn’t like
- Doesn’t come with a battery
8. MNP SP50 50W Pump Kit
The MNP SP50 kit is a potent water pump comprising a 16ft plastic hose, two 25W panels, and a brushless magnetic pump. It does not come with any batteries, so you can only use the unit in direct sunlight.
A standout feature of this kit is the rotor protection that helps avoid any damage to the pump due to blockage and debris. Unlike other pumps that would dry out a pond or water features, the MNP kit includes a dry run cut-off feature that automatically switches off the pump to save water for fish and other pond animals.
With a 10ft head, the pump allows you to spray with tremendous pressure in many different settings, including a garden, small farms, or an irrigation channel. You can also use it in home fish tanks, large ponds, lakes, and a similar outdoor environment.
It has a maximum water flow rate of nearly 15 GPM, which is quite a lot compared to other units in this list. The high rate of flow and head make it a sturdy and robust option for commercial purposes. What makes it even better is the simple assembly and ease of installation. The two panels can both be placed in different locations to get the most of sunlight hits. You can even add extensions to the 16ft hose to water larger and more remote spots.
The pump weighs around 5 pounds, so you can easily carry it around without trouble. The pump is also really easy to clean. And to top it off, you get a one-year warranty on all parts. Overall, it is an excellent option if you’re looking for a powerful water pump.
What we liked
- 10ft head
- High durability
- Above-average rate of flow
- Easy to install and clean
What we didn’t like
- Doesn’t include a battery
- Requires direct sunlight for efficient operation
How Many Solar Panels Does It Take to Power a Water Pump?
Before discussing the number of panels required to power a water pump, let’s clarify a few essential concepts that will help you understand what exactly it means to “power” a pump and how you can gauge the number of panels you need in different cases.
The power of a solar panel and a water pump is usually measured in Watts. A solar panel needs to deliver as much power as the water pump you’re going to use. Having a solar panel with power lesser than that required by the pump can result in many problems, including the subpar performance of the pump.
A single solar panel generally comes in 20-100 watts. The power of panels can vary, but we often come across 20-watt panels for operating solar pumps, which is why we will be using a 20W solar panel as an example here.
If you have a solar pump of 9W or 15W, a single solar panel should be enough to power the pump. However, when the wattage of the pump increases by more than 20W, you will need more than one solar panel.
For 21-40W, you can easily make do with two solar panels. Whereas for a 100W pump, you will require five 20W-panels. In this case, it is important to note that you can also use a single 100W solar panel, depending on how efficient it is. Both solar panel systems will provide you with the same amount of solar energy to power the pump. But you can compare your options to find which system would be better for you.
One way to choose the right system of panels is to check their cost against each other. If a system of five 20-watt panels is more expensive than a single 100-watt solar panel, you might want to invest in the 100-watt panel.
You should also check the kind of solar cells each system is made of. Solar panels are made of silicon cells that are either monocrystalline or polycrystalline. Monocrystalline cells often have higher efficiency and remarkable heat tolerance as compared to polycrystalline cells. However, polycrystalline cells are currently more popular in domestic use. There are amorphous cells, but they are not very efficient, so you should steer clear of them.
To simply answer the question, you can either get a couple of 20-50W panels together in a system to power a water pump, like many of the above-mentioned solar power water pump kits. Or you can invest in a single 100-200W solar panel.
Buyer’s Guide: What Should You Look for in Solar Powered Pump
A solar water pump is an ideal choice for those looking for an environmentally friendly option to irrigate their garden and small farms. In order to choose a powerful solar water pump, here are some of the features that will ensure that you get the best output from your unit.
Watch this video and learn about how to select and size a water pump for irrigation:
Rate of Water Flow
The rate of flow signifies the water lifting capacity of the pump. A solar pump with a rate of over 500 GPH (gallons per hour) is usually meant to water a garden or a small farm, whereas a solar water pump system with a low rate of flow is more effective for birdbaths and fish tanks. You need to analyze your solar water pump usage and then determine the rate of water flow you’ll need. A 100 gallons per hour or 1.6 gallons per minute rate would be adequate enough for pumping water in a pond or fish tank.
Longevity
Always go for solar pumps that promise long lifespan. You can either read the pump’s manual to determine its lifespan or check out customer reviews to see what other users say about its durability. . We highly recommend a solar water pump with at least 20,000 hours of a lifetime.
Solar Panel and Pump Power
It’s important to ensure that the solar power supplied by the panels exceeds the power required by the pump. Also, consider the panels’ efficiency when choosing panels for solar pump application. Since no panel offers 100% efficiency, you should always aim for panels whose output power is greater than the solar pump’s operational power.
Ease of Installation
Most solar water pump systems are made for domestic use, primarily as birdbaths or fountains. Therefore, their set-up and installation should be DIY-friendly, and you should be able to assemble and install them without any external help. Our list contains excellent options that offer easy installation.
Warranty
Warranty is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a solar water pump. A system with even a year’s warranty can save you a considerable amount of money in repairs and provide you peace of mind. Without a guarantee, you’ll likely have to invest in another machine in case anything happens to your unit.
FAQs
Is a solar water pump kit more useful than electric and diesel water pumps?
Yes, a solar water pump is more beneficial than conventional water pumps. It draws its energy from solar power, which is a renewable and inexhaustible source of energy compared to depleting resources like fuel and gas. This makes a solar water pump eco-friendly.
Another reason is the upkeep and maintenance of a solar water pump. Once you’ve installed a solar pump system, it’ll start working independently without any outside intervention. The unit does its job as long as the sun is shining. Some pumps come with a rechargeable battery that stores power to operates the unit when the sun isn’t around.
People are reluctant to invest in a solar water pump due to a high upfront cost. The amount of money you end up paying is usually twice the amount you’d pay for a fuel-powered pump. However, that’s the only money you will be spending on the pump, unlike a fuel pump which will require investment in fuel every few days or weeks.
What are the different kinds of solar water pumps?
There are mainly four different types of solar water pumps available in the market. These are:
Submersible pump
A submersible pump remains submerged in water, hence the name. These pumps are installed below the ground level, with the suction head at least 10m into the ground. The installation is done by digging a well in the water body, which increases the cost of installation and the effort.
Surface pump
As the name indicates, a surface pump can stay on the water surface. It’s used to pump water from surface sources like ponds, water features, springs, shallow wells, or sources where the water table is less than 10m. It doesn’t require excessive effort and has a lower cost of installation.
AC pump
These pumps require AC (alternate current) to operate, which means that an inverter must convert the DC produced by the panels to AC.
DC pump
This is a simple solar water pump that does not require any batteries or inverters. It takes the DC (direct current) from the solar panels to irrigate farms and gardens.
Can I change the location of my solar water pump?
Depending on the type of the pump, you can definitely change its location. If it’s a surface pump, you can move and reinstall it elsewhere without needing any extra equipment. A submersible pump, however, can’t be relocated as it’s submerged in water.
Can the solar panels be damaged due to rain/snowfall?
Modern solar panels are weather-resistant and can protect themselves against any rain or snowfall. So your panels won’t be damaged unless they are struck by lightning. Heavy rains and storms can also damage the panel’s base and result in glitches.
Do solar water pumps require any maintenance?
Solar pumps require minimal maintenance. This includes cleaning the panels to avoid clogging and ensure maximum exposure to sunlight for better efficiency.
Final Thoughts
When installing your solar-powered pump, make sure you place the solar panel in direct sunlight with no shade or cover. Also, make sure to place it away from children and/or pets. Regularly clean the panels for better maintenance and improved efficiency.
All the products on our list are highly reliable, durable, and long-lasting. However, it might be a little tricky trying to find the right unit for your needs.
In that case, please make a list of the important features you want in the pump, while also taking notes from our buyer’s guide. Use these factors to narrow down your search for the best solar pumps.
