Strategies for Improving Pump Energy Efficiency

If homeowners want to improve the efficiency of a pump system, they should consult with experts.

Homeowners are always looking for ways to maximize energy efficiency around the home. However, working out the most effective strategies and suitable components comes with unique challenges when it comes to pumps.

Here are some tips on improving pump energy efficiency:

Sizing

The size of the pump system is crucial. An over-designed system will burn excess energy that isn’t needed to do the job effectively. Pumps are inherently energy guzzlers, so an over-engineered system will only lead to increased energy usage and costs in the long term.

Work with pump engineers to properly assess and design a system that operates near its best efficiency point (BEP) without going overboard. Doing so will ensure energy is not unnecessarily used to meet load requirements.

Piping

In addition to calculating the sizing correctly for the pump system, the pipe sizing and design can also make a big difference from an efficiency perspective. Oversized piping can cause the system to use more energy to preserve the flow rate. Furthermore, limiting the number of valves and short-radius elbows in the pipe design will reduce friction and energy loss.

Usage

Pumps only consume energy when running. Installing a control system is a simple way to reduce the amount of time the pump operates. In turn, this will reduce energy use. A range of control systems can be utilized to make this happen, from flow and pressure sensors to remote monitors and controls.

These controls are integral for understanding how the system performs and adjusting to maximize its efficiency based on real-time data to meet real-time requirements.

Variable frequency drives (VSD)

VSDs are electronic controls used to keep the pump operating as close to its best efficiency point at all times. It does so by varying the motor rotational speed to match the demands precisely. VSDs are super-efficient and effective and can slash pump energy usage in half in the right conditions.

Maintenance

Pump maintenance is a proactive step that can be taken to ensure the system continues to run as efficiently as possible over its life cycle. Regular and professional maintenance will help assess and maintain the health of the pump system. Furthermore, repair or replacement work will be completed before it has time to become a more significant, costly problem.

While there’s no way to completely stop system degradation over time, maintenance is a powerful and often overlooked method for combatting this. A properly maintained pump can provide up to 7% in energy savings over its lifespan.

Seek professional advice

If homeowners want to improve the efficiency of a pump system, they should consult with experts. A professional service can give the best advice and offer a quote.

Pump Repair Services provides residential and commercial pump repair services for water well pumps, water feature pumps, transfer pumps, industrial irrigation pumps, and more, as well as custom water filtration services in the Orlando area. (Sorry, no pool pumps or sewer pumps.) We offer 24-hour emergency service. Call us at (407) 625-5499.