A booster pump for garden irrigation

Why should you opt for a booster pump to irrigate your garden? In order to determine which pump is most suitable for that purpose, we first need to explain the difference between a garden pump and a booster pump.

Most people think the difference between both pumps has to do with a tank. However, this is not always the case, because some booster pump models are not fitted with a tank. How exactly does that work?

Just like garden pumps, booster pumps - also known as boosters or pressure-boosting pumps - are self-priming. The pump is often used to increase water pressure in the water pipes, but is also ideal for spraying or irrigating gardens and lawns. A standard garden pump switches on if its plug is inserted into the wall socket, and off when it is removed. Some pump models are also fitted with a switch. A booster pump switches on and off depending on the water requirement, which is the main advantage of this type of pump.

The advantage and difference is that booster pumps switch on and off automatically, and some models are fitted with a tank that serves as a water buffer. Owing to this operating system, some booster pumps are also protected against running dry.

In summary, the main differences are:

• fitted with a tank as a buffer;
• switches on and off automatically depending on the water requirement;
• the pump control system protects it against running dry.

In other words, the booster pump is a smart device.

How does it work?

If the pump has a tank, the first water requirement will come from the tank to avoid the pump also needing to switch on to supply small amounts of water. This is much better for the pump, and makes it more sustainable and energy efficient. The tank, which works as a buffer, is fitted with a membrane that moves backwards and forwards to push out the water, and prevents the water from coming into contact with the tank's steel interior. Furthermore, the tank also reduces water hammer; 'blows' in the water pipes caused by an abrupt change in the rate of flow when a tap is opened and closed.

If there is no space for a pump that is fitted with a tank, you can convert a regular garden pump into a booster pump by mounting a pump control system on it. This system ensures that the pump switches on and off automatically and, if it operates properly, also prevents the pump from running dry. This may be an excellent solution if space is limited and the water source is not visible; you can relax, knowing that your garden is being properly irrigated.

Why opt for a booster pump?

If you want to irrigate your garden manually, a booster pump will be most suitable for you: for example, in combination with a hand-held sprayer. The pump will switch off as soon as you release the handle. In such situations, a pump with a tank is not always needed, because the water supply is controlled efficiently.

Of course, you can also connect impellers or sprinklers to the booster pump, which makes the device suitable for occasional garden irrigation or use in combination with an irrigation computer.

Waterpump.co.uk is one of the better websites from which to obtain advice and information as well as to find pump models with or without a tank. The site also includes a handy choice guide where all the above and other questions are answered. Furthermore, a team is available to help you if additional information is required.