There are 2 general types of solar water pumping systems: submersible pumps and surface pumps. These pumps are used for a variety of applications.

Submersible Solar Water Pumping Systems

Submersible solar water pumps are pumps which, as the name already indicates, can be submerged. Their main use is for boreholes and wells. Since they are located inside the water, there is no need to “suck” water, these pumps only “push”.

Surface Solar Water Pumping Systems

Surface solar pumping systems are pumps which are not submerged, but are located above the water level. Their main use is in lakes, ponds, rivers, pools and to pump water from one tank to another. Special types of surface pumps are:

  • Portable Solar Water Pumps – Portable solar water pumps often arise at farms in order to irrigate different areas of the farm. Due to the low weight the pump (and solar panel) can easily be moved around.
  • Solar Pool Pumps – Water in swimming pools needs to be regularly filtered. As this can be relatively energy intens, many pool owners in sunny area’s (or areas without grid connection) opt for a solar pool pump.

More on buying a solar water pumping system here.