The Role of Pumps in Sustainable Agriculture
Areas with higher rainfall can make use of submersible pumps.
Water has always been essential to agriculture, but technology has become just as important in using it effectively. Sustainable agriculture requires sustainable solutions at all production levels, and water pumps are no exception.
Here are some reasons sustainable pumps have such an important role:
Utilize natural energy sources
Different climates make different demands on agriculture. They can also provide their benefits. Solar-powered water pumps utilize the sun’s clean energy. With the price of installing solar power rapidly decreasing in the past decade, using this clean energy source is easier than ever.
Areas with higher rainfall can make use of submersible pumps. Submerged directly in the water source, they can readily supply irrigation water without priming, regardless of the hydraulic conditions.
Other solutions are even older. Windmill pumps have been used for hundreds of years to drain and irrigate. All this is done without a reliance on electronics or advanced technology.
Low costs and maintenance
Fossil fuel costs can add up, and with the gradual rise of fuel prices, this problem will only intensify. Contrast this with solar pumps or windmill pumps. While the initial setup cost may be high, the freedom from fossil fuels will prove much more economical in the long term.
Many newer pumps utilize advanced technology, meaning better functioning and less maintenance. Compared to fossil fuel-driven pumps, sustainable solutions like solar only require upkeep rather than constant repair. Submersible pumps are enclosed from the elements and protected against corrosion due to extended submersion in water.
That said, one must occasionally maintain even the most sustainable pump solutions. Using a trusted pump repair service familiar with various models and environments is advisable.
Reduce noise pollution
Excess sound is an often-overlooked area of pollution that can negatively impact wildlife and humans. The World Health Organization classifies any noise above 65 dB as noise pollution. Sustainable water pumps negate this issue by not relying on machinery to perform their functions. Solar water pumps run silently, and submersible pumps have any noises drowned out in the water.
Flexibility
Sustainable water pumps are more flexible than their mechanical counterparts. Solar pumps can easily be placed far from an electrical grid. They are ideal for use in remote areas or locations with little access to reliable power. Windmill-powered pumps require no power to function and are useful in various locales.
Solar pumps are also more flexible in their function. While other pumps have a single function, solar pumps can be used in irrigation, livestock watering, and pest control.
Better water management
The advanced technologies of sustainable pumps also improve efficiency when conserving water. Many solar pumps have functions that allow farmers to choose when and where to water. Combine this with conservation techniques like drip farming, and it’s easy to see the savings. This can prove particularly useful in low-rainfall areas.
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.
