TechThe right type of pump depends first on your water source. Brand and HP come later. Here is how the three most common types compare.
Monoblock (surface) pumps
Monoblock pumps sit above the water and pull water up through a suction pipe. They are simple, easy to service and good value. The limit is suction: in practice they work well only when the water is within about 6 to 7 metres of the pump. Best for sumps, tanks, canals and shallow open wells.
Openwell submersible pumps
Openwell pumps work under water inside a wide well or sump, so there is no suction limit. Horizontal models lie flat in shallow water. Vertical models suit deeper wells with less floor space. Water cools the motor, which helps them run continuously. Best for open wells and large underground sumps.
Borewell submersible pumps
Borewell pumps are long and narrow so they fit inside a 4 to 8 inch bore, and they can lift water from hundreds of feet. Correct sizing is critical. Our borewell pump selection guide explains it.
Quick comparison
| Type | Water source | Depth | Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monoblock | Sump, tank, canal | Up to about 6–7 m suction | Easiest |
| Openwell | Open well, large sump | Any, pump sits under water | Easy |
| Borewell submersible | Borewell | Deep, hundreds of feet | Pump must be pulled out |
We supply all three types in Watello, CRI, Lubi and Grundfos ranges. Tell us your water source and we will point you to the right one.
