Water booster pumps help increase the pressure and volume of water to faucets, showerheads, toilets, hose bibs, and the like in both residential and commercial (particularly high-rise) applications.
There are several reasons for low-water pressure. Gravity is one because the higher the level at which the water needs to be supplied, the lower the water pressure. Distance from the water source and the diameter of the water pipe also affects pressure. If a home or building is at the end of the water supply line, the pressure will likely be lower by the time it reaches the structure. Low water flow can also result from low pressure water from the local water plant. Plus, additional water treatment systems or other water-using devices will reduce water pressure, such as iron curtains, water softeners, and R/O systems.
Although a water booster pump will increase pressure, keep in mind that as the pressure required to move water increases, the volume actually does not increase. As a matter of fact, the opposite occurs. Think of it as water running from your hose. If you put your thumb over the nozzle, the water comes out at a higher pressure, but the flow rate is restricted. Booster pumps have a similar end result – as pressure increases, flow decreases.
Which booster pump you need depends on the amount of water used, the desired discharge pressure, and the application of the water source. Are you sizing for a single-story home, multiple level apartment complex, or a very tall building? Is the water from a tank, lake, pond, or municipal water supply?
The pump professionals at JMI Pump Systems can help you select just the right size pump for your application. We particularly like the options Franklin Electric offers.
For example, their Subdrive Inline 1100 works in the following applications: boosted and constant water pressure from water storage/cistern systems; for homes in both private and municipal applications; sprinkler systems; farming and commercial wash down systems; and general pressure boosting.
The simplex packaged system includes pump, motor, drive, and pressure switch. It features a small and compact design to fit into small areas, even between floor joists, and is one of the only boosters with a zero foot print. Multiple mounting configurations allow for the unit to be installed where needed, whether horizontal, vertical, or upside down. The pump provides up to 40 gpm and/or up to an additional 60 psi.
The Inline 1100 SpecPak connects to nearly any commercial, industrial, or multi-residential plumbing configuration. Thanks to its modular form, it offers the flexibility to add pump models to the base package so the system can grow to accommodate new or unexpected water demands.
The pump itself is a quiet, all-in-one constant water pressure system. As water volume needs increase, the pump instantly accelerates to the proper speed to ensure the water pressure stays constant throughout the application.
The 1100 SpecPak is offered in simplex through quadplex, providing maximum flow rates from 40 to 160 gpm, and up an additional 60 psi. The system comes prepackaged and ready for installation virtually anywhere. Simply hook up piping, add power, and it’s ready to use.
JMI also provides the traditional floor mounted boost packages build to your required specifications. As with all our pump products and accessories, the JMI Pump Systems professional staff can help you determine the correct pump and controls for your pump application. Your Partners in Pumping are available at 262-253-1353 or sales@jmipumps.com to assist you.
