How to Get the Most Out of Petrol Water Pumps

Posted by mygenerator on August 8th, 2016

A water pump is mainly designed to do one job and do it well – transfer water from one place to another. There may be slightly different needs, and water pump implementations vary accordingly. Whether they are used for clear water transferring, dirty water (trash) transferring, or moving water for fire fighting, the basic functioning of all the water pumps is the same. Specifically, you may need a water pump in different situations such as draining the pool or transferring water out from a flooded basement. It can be used in a large job site or in public works tasks such as trash water transferring. The importance of water pumps in many situations cannot be stressed enough. 

Water pumps typically come in two basic types – electric water pumps and fuel-powered water pumps. 

The most common electric water pumps are used for indoor and smaller requirements like rainwater tank pumps, small garden pumps, aquarium pumps, caravan pumps, etc. They can be connected to your standard household mains power source or 12volt power output. They are designed to do smaller DIY tasks that do not involve heavy loads. They do not need much maintenance and are less powerful. There are also large, electric pumps which are usually stationary (not portable), often require three phase power and are considered a permanent fixture for many properties. 

Fuel powered water pumps like the petrol or diesel powered ones generate more power than the small electric pumps and useful when you need the pump to be portable to transfer water. They are generally used for heavier-duty applications in farming, construction, and mining. Petrol powered water pumps have a centrifugal design, and they produce Carbon-dioxide and Carbon-Mono-oxide emissions. They are not exactly environment-friendly, however their functioning is excellent and reliable. These have a starting mechanism like your lawnmower and are up and running with just a pull of the starting cord. 

To get the most out of petrol powered water pumps you should choose the ones from a recognised brand with a history of delivering exceptional quality over the years. This may cost you a little more in the start, but it will save you a lot of money in the long run. Plus, you should try to using it with custom hoses and other accessories so that the job will be easier and your pump functions optimally. 

Another important consideration is that you should buy the pump according to your needs. While most pumps are general purpose, many models are designed with specific needs in mind. A petrol pump designed for transferring clear water will not be as effective at trash transfer at moving dirty water. In the same way, a petrol trash transfer pump cannot do an optimal job as a fire fighting pump, as the latter pumps are designed to emit more pressure, whilst a transfer pump moves more water on a litres per minute measure. Using the pump according to its ideal usage conditions will not only save time and money but also perform to the highest standards. 

When using your petrol water pump, keep safety guidelines as the foremost priority. Ensure that the area is well ventilated (when using a petrol/diesel pump) and the pump is secured and stable to avoid it from slipping when under operation. Such measures will increase the life of the pump and maintain the safety of the user and others around. 

About the author:

Steve Reynolds, Power Product Expert at My Generator is a small engine specialist with particular expertise in Generators, Water Pumps, Pressure Washers and other Outdoor Power Equipment products. Outside of work; an avid caravan enthusiast who enjoys time on the road and has gained years of familiarity with Caravan & Camping products also. A passion for power products used for work, home and leisure!