Solar Powered Water Pump for Ponds: A Complete Buyers Guide

A solar powered water pump for ponds is an efficient way to distribute water throughout your garden. Not only does it do the job well, but it also helps you save on your electricity bills.

Solar powered pond water pumps are simple to install as they don’t involve a complex setup such as mains wiring. Moreover, using these pumps does not entail any running costs. If you are considering buying one, keep reading this article for detailed guidelines to help you purchase the correct solar powered pond water pump.

What is a Solar Powered Water Pump?

A solar powered water pump for ponds works using electricity generated by the photovoltaic (PV) panels. When designed the right way, these pumps can result in considerable cost-savings in the long term and reduced impact on the environment.

Solar power is a dependable choice for:

  • Remote water pumping
  • Livestock watering
  • Garden fountains
  • Large-scale watering for commercial installations

Benefits of a Solar Powered Water Pump

Solar powered pond water pumps are helpful for your pond, outdoor fountain, birdbath, and agricultural purposes. Some of its prime benefits include:

Eco-Friendly

The most significant benefit of a solar powered water pump for ponds is that it is eco-friendly. It does not leave a negative impact on the environment, unlike pumps that run on electricity.

Solar cells harness sunlight and turn it into energy that your electronics can run on. This way, you are not using energy generated by a power plant. If you live in a sunny area, your solar powered pond water pump can reduce your costs and make your property more environmentally friendly.

Cost-Effective

When you opt for solar power, you only have to bear the upfront costs. They include the price of solar panels and the equipment that powers the object of your choice.

If you have ponds and fountains on your mind, you can either opt for a complete setup that includes both the solar panel and pump or a two-piece arrangement.

Once you have purchased the initial equipment, you are all set to begin. The pump does not involve costly utilities for functioning and is powered naturally by the sun. On the other hand, pumps run by electricity use power every time you turn them on.

Easy Installation

A solar powered water pump for ponds is relatively simple to install. However, the most available versions are essential and can be fixed with just a few easy steps.

Moreover, there is no need for additional work such as wiring or finding out heatproof and waterproof lines. The pump setup includes all that needs to be done without any cords to run.

Versatile

Solar powered pond water pumps are fit for all pond shapes and sizes. This is rather beneficial as every pond is different from another.

You can use solar powered pumps for biological ponds, koi ponds, bubble fountains, and birdbaths. They are also quite reliable when serviced and maintained appropriately.

Silent

Solar powered water pumps for ponds do not result in any noise pollution. They tend to operate silently. You will still hear the bubbling of water but won’t have to tolerate the irritating hum of the pump.

Long-Lasting

Pond pumps using solar power typically have a long lifespan. This is because they are easy to maintain and do not need to be rewired after every few years. Therefore, a solar powered water pump for ponds is long-lasting and keeps saving your money and time for a long while.

However, the precise lifespan will differ from pump to pump. This is why it is vital to purchase your pump from a trusted manufacturer.

Convenience

You can use a solar powered pond water pump anywhere. For example, if you have a well in your premises far away from a source of power, you can still pump water using a solar powered water pump for ponds.

You do not need anything other than the sun and solar panels to make your pump do its job. Therefore, there is no need to spend a handsome amount to get a power source fixed nearby or look for an alternative source such as a windmill.

What to Consider When Choosing a Solar Powered Water Pump?

Solar powered pond water pumps work through solar energy, making them affordable as well as eco-friendly. Choosing a water pump depends on how you wish to use it and the specifics of your farm. Here are some of the factors to keep in mind:

Location

The place where you wish to install your pump is crucial to consider. Make sure you choose a location before actually buying the pump.

The location of your choice will assist you in deciding the power and model of the solar powered pond water pump. You will be able to judge the pump capacity and the requirement for separate installations only after you have decided on the location.

For instance, if you choose a place with ample sunlight, it would be easier to operate the pump. Moreover, if your location is not near a grid, go for a pump version with a battery backup.

Capacity

Efficiency is the central aspect you should consider before choosing a solar powered pond water pump. Make sure the pump of your choice is efficient. In addition, the capacity of the pump needs to be in line with your expectations.

You will find pumps with different power systems and production capacities. Remember that the water-flowing capacity of the pump should be enough to send water at a standard speed to the right place and up to the required height.

An inefficient pump would result in obstacles to your watering operations and cancel out the benefits of switching to a solar pump.

Panel Size

Solar devices take in sunlight through solar panels. For example, a solar powered pond water pump operates similarly.

It is vital to take into account the size of the solar panel. Opt for a panel with a size suitable for the system’s power consumption for the best results. Also, try to choose a panel with the latest solar panel features. This will improve the water flow capacity and overall efficiency of the pump.

Water Flow

The power of the pump is determined by water flow. So with an effective solar pond pump, you would get powerful water flow to reach the destination successfully.

A solar powered pond water pump should ensure easy water flow to reach ponds or fountains. Compare the watts and efficiency to choose a pump with the correct water flow. Your usage can help you determine the right solar powered pump.

Price

A solar powered pond water pump is cost-effective as it absorbs energy from the sun. In addition, it works off the grid, minimizing electricity costs.

An efficient solar pump can function for a more extended period and pumps water continuously. Moreover, it is vital to consider the warranty of your solar powered water pump for ponds.

Go for a manufacturer which offers exemplary after-sales service and a sufficient warranty period. This will help you avoid repair expenses if the pump gets damaged in any way. It is also vital to ensure that spare parts are available for maintenance purposes.

Top 5 Solar Pumps to Choose From

If you are considering buying a solar powered pond water pump, there are several features you should take into account. Here are five solar pumps to choose from:

1. Nonley Solar Bird Bath Fountain Pump

This fountain pump features 1.4 watt adjusted solar panels to generate energy efficiently. It is designed to appeal to birds and add life to your outdoor space. The pump is just right for your pond, pool, fish tank, birdbath, or garden.

It contains four different nozzle heads to provide you with varying options for spraying. You can alter the pattern within just a couple of minutes. The spray heads are simple to assemble and have multiple operations.

The nozzles help you choose water flow appropriate for your pool, pond, or outdoor garden décor. Each head has many holes to keep the water supply steady. The solar panel is rounded, with a 16 cm diameter to take in the maximum sunlight to generate substantial energy for the pump.

Moreover, the pump can let out 150 liters of water per hour at a maximum height of 27.55 inches. This is sufficient for a small yet proficient fountain pump. This solar powered pond water pump does not require much maintenance and comes with a 12-month warranty.

The Nonley Solar Bird Bath Fountain Pump starts when it receives the right amount of sunlight. It does not require any on/off function, making it a hassle-free choice for your garden.

2. Solariver Solar Water Pump Kit

This pump features a 20-watt powerful solar panel with an adjustable water flow. It is submersible and capable of sending large amounts of water without connection to a power grid.

The durable and brushless magnetic pump can function for an extended period. Moreover, the pump is equipped with dry-run protection and a removable pre-filter to clear glass, debris, and fish. It is simple to use and can produce power sufficient to move water.

The pump has a 16-feet long power cord, helping you keep the pump in the service area with ease. In addition, it comes with another 16-inch cord to further extend the length.

The Solariver Solar Water Pump Kit has a plug-and-play mechanism that allows you to get the pump operational in seconds. All you have to do is connect the power cord to the pump and solar panel. Once the pump has absorbed ample heat, it will startup. There is no complex installation or wiring process involved.

This solar powered water pump for ponds will effectively appeal to wildlife due to the soothing sound of flowing water. In addition, the manufacturer offers a year-long warranty and a 100% money-back guarantee if the pump fails to meet your requirements.

3. Sunnydaze Outdoor Solar Pump and Panel Fountain Kit

The highlight of this solar powered pond water pump is its excellent water-lifting height. It enables water flow to be lifted to 120 inches in height.

The pump measures 12×10.5 inches and weighs only 7 pounds. With a 16-foot power cable and four footpads, this pump can move 396 gallons of water per hour.

Sunnydaze Outdoor Solar Pump is equipped with two fountain spray heads to create a landscape water flow. Its one-year warranty makes it hassle-free to use for a whole year.

4. Eco-Worthy Solar Fountain Water Pump Kit 20W

This solar powered water pump for ponds features a 20-watt solar panel and has 360 GPH submersible power. It can lift water up to 6.9 feet, making it relatively efficient.

This durable pump is made of superior quality materials. This ensures its long life with an operating time of more than 20,000 hours.

Eco-Worthy Solar Water Fountain Pump Kit has two different fountain heads for unique spray water patterns. In addition, the plug and play mechanism ensures smooth water movement.

5. PowerEZ Solar Water Pump Kit

This is a 20-watt solar water pump that can function for more than 20,000 during its lifetime. A brushless 12 volt DC consumption pump can lift water to a maximum height of 3.3 feet.

Overall, this solar powered pond water pump measures 170x105x110mm with a maximum flow of 240G/H per hour. Its open-circuit voltage along with optimum operating current substantially boosts water flow. In addition, PowerEZ Solar Water Pump Kit is black, making it submerge in the water quickly.

Solar Powered Water Pump: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions regarding solar powered water pumps for ponds:

Are solar pumps good for ponds?

Solar pumps offer excellent cost-saving solutions for operating small water features in your pond. They help you save on your electricity bills and are environmentally friendly at the same time. Moreover, they are easy to install and maintain.

Do solar pond pumps work at night?

Solar powered pond pumps with batteries can work at night and during cloudy days due to stored power. However, a pump without a battery can only function when the solar panel is directly exposed to sunlight.

How far will a solar pump push water?

The height up to which a solar pump can lift water depends on its panel size and energy generation capacity. Even a tiny solar powered pond water pump that operates at 150 watts can lift water from a depth of 200 feet at 1.5 gallons per minute.

How do you size a solar pump?

General practice is to oversize the solar panel by approximately 30% to compensate for even unfavorable weather conditions.

How much does a solar water pump cost?

A solar powered pond water pump for irrigation usually costs between $2,000 to $5,000. This includes a pump kit and a solar array, along with the relevant connections.

Video: Solar Fountain Pump Test

Summary

A solar powered water pump for ponds operates by generating electricity using photovoltaic panels. As it does not use electricity, it offers a cost-effective way to distribute water throughout your garden.

Solar pumps are easy to install, convenient to use, and simple to maintain. If you are considering buying one, there are various models with different features to choose from.

Select a solar powered water pump for ponds that suits your needs. Make sure you consider factors such as capacity, water flow, price, and panel size. Explore BackYard Alpha for more ideas about decorating your outdoor space.

Jack Dempsey