Irrigation water pumps move water from a source to where it’s needed, whether that’s sprinklers, drip irrigation, hosepipes or agricultural spray systems.

Choosing the right irrigation pump comes down to three things: your water source, how far the water needs to travel, and the pressure and flow your system requires.

If you’re searching for a water pump for irrigation, pump for sprinklers, or garden irrigation pump, the starting point is always the water source.

Borehole Pumps for Irrigation Systems

Borehole pumps are designed for narrow, drilled shafts that access groundwater at depth. Their slim design and multi-stage impellers allow them to generate high pressure, making them ideal for lifting water vertically and pushing it over long distances.

They are typically used for:

• Agricultural irrigation
  
• Large sprinkler systems
  
• Polytunnels and paddocks
  
• Long pipe runs from deep water sources
  

If you need a high pressure irrigation pump or a pump for deep boreholes, this is usually the right option.

Well Pumps for Garden Irrigation and Tanks

Well pumps are used in wider shafts, wells, tanks and cisterns. They provide a balance between flow and pressure, making them suitable for domestic and small commercial irrigation.

The Divertron is a common choice for this type of setup. It automatically switches on and off when a tap or hose is opened, making it ideal for garden watering and general use. However, it is not typically suited to running sprinkler systems where consistent pressure is required.

These pumps are often used for:

• Garden irrigation systems
  
• Hosepipe watering
  
• Drawing from tanks or stored water
  

Surface Pumps for Irrigation and Water Transfer

Surface pumps sit outside the water source and draw water in through a suction hose. They are easy to install, access and maintain.

They are commonly used for:

• Water tanks, IBCs and bowsers
  
• Rainwater harvesting systems
  
• Boosting pressure for irrigation systems
  

The FL Demand Pump is often used by councils and contractors with battery-powered bowsers for watering plants in public spaces. It automatically switches on and off when a trigger or valve is opened and closed, making it efficient and easy to use. With its high head, it performs well over distance and can be used with a standard hosepipe.

If you’re looking for a 12V irrigation pump or battery powered water pump, this is a typical setup.

Submersible Transfer Pumps for Irrigation from Open Water

Where water is taken from rivers, lakes, ditches or reservoirs, a submersible transfer pump is often the right solution.

These pumps sit directly in the water and are designed to move large volumes over distance. They prioritise flow rate rather than pressure, making them suitable for:

• Agricultural irrigation
  
• Field watering
  
• Transferring water across land
  

The APP KHL-20 is a good example of this type of pump, designed for moving high volumes from open water sources where debris and sediment may be present.

How to Choose the Right Irrigation Pump

To select the right irrigation pump, focus on three key questions:

1. Where is your water coming from?

Borehole, well, tank or open water will determine the pump type.

2. How far does the water need to travel?

Consider both vertical lift and horizontal distance.

3. What pressure and flow are required?

Sprinklers, drip systems and spray nozzles all require specific performance levels.

Matching these requirements to a pump’s performance curve ensures reliable operation.