What are alternating current surface pumps and what are they used for?
These are pumps installed outside the water that draw from a tank, sump, or open intake and deliver flow and pressure to the discharge using alternating current, either single-phase 230 V or three-phase 230/400 V. They are ideal when grid power or an inverter is available and a robust solution is needed for transfers, irrigation, or local pressurization with simple maintenance. Our AC (single/three-phase) range is being incorporated gradually, maintaining compatibility with standard accessories and controllers.
Advantages and limitations
- Simplicity and availability: direct connection to 230 V (single/three-phase) with standard protections (MCB/RCBO, thermal relay).
- Advanced control: possibility of VFD to modulate flow/pressure, protect the motor, and smooth startups.
- Easy maintenance: equipment accessible at the surface, no need for well lifting operations.
- Limitations: the suction height is limited; it is advisable to install the pump close to and below the water level. For deep intakes, a submersible alternating current pump is preferable.
Common applications
- Transfers between tanks, ponds, and cisterns.
- Irrigation by drip or sprinkler from tanks/canals.
- Local pressurization of auxiliary lines (wash areas, hoses, remote points) or supply to pool filters depending on configuration.
How to choose your alternating current surface pump
- Operating point: define flow (m³/h) and TDH (m). TDH = static head + friction losses (pipes, elbows, valves, filters). The model should cross your point on the flow–head curve with margin.
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Power supply:
- Single-phase 230 V: homes and moderate power.
- Three-phase 230/400 V: better startups, lower current per phase, and easy use of VFD for medium/high power.
- Hydraulics: centrifugal (CPM/QB/SHF/CS-F) for medium-high flows and low–medium heads; high pressure/BOOST versions for higher heads with moderate flow.
- Suction: minimize suction height; install foot valve and strainer. If the intake is very deep or variable, consider a submersible alternating current pump.
- Water quality: if there are sediments, add a filter to protect the impeller and mechanical seal.
Indicative technical specifications
| Power supply | Single-phase 230 V | Three-phase 230/400 V (50/60 Hz) |
| Flow range | ≈0.5–57 m³/h (depending on series CPM/QB/SHF/CS-F/BOOST) |
| Manometric head | ≈10–150 m (up to 150 m in high pressure/BOOST) |
| Control | Direct start / Soft-starter / VFD |
| Protections | Foot valve and strainer on suction, check valve on discharge, dry run, overvoltage |
| Catalog status | AC range (single/three-phase) in progressive expansion |
Best installation practices
- Place the pump close to and below the water level to facilitate priming and avoid cavitation.
- Use generous piping on suction and reduce elbows/long runs; check for leaks.
- Install a check valve on discharge and activate stop by dry run (floats/probes or press-control).
- With VFD, adjust ramps and target pressure according to the pump curve; check ventilation and frequency limits.
- Maintenance: clean filters, check seals, and tighten terminals; schedule periodic inspections.
Comparisons and related accessories
If you prioritize operating cost and autonomy, see Solar Surface Pumps. If you want mixed solar/AC backup, choose Hybrid Surface Pumps. For deep well intake, consider Submersible Alternating Current Pumps. Improve your installation with Accessories (foot valve, filters, pressure switches/press-control, DC/AC protections) and return to the overview at Surface Pumps or Water Pumps.
