Practical things you should know before you choose a water pump for your house or business in South Africa.
“How much is a water pump?” is a common question we get asked.
Before looking at prices of water pumps, there are a few things you should understand, so that you can get the right pump for the job you need it to do.
Getting a pump that’s well suited to your situation will mean that it that will work properly and last longer.
Getting the right water pump can mean starting your day with the right water pressure in your shower and having an uninterrupted water supply even when municipal water is down – imagine still being able to flush toilets and continue work during outages …
We explain this in a way that’s easy to understand.
Let’s delve into understanding a little more about:
- what a water pump does
- how much water pumps cost in South Africa
- what brands we trust over the long term
- how to choose and
- maintain the right water pump
What is the water pump going to be used for?
A water pump is a mechanical device designed to move water from one place to another.
Depending on your needs, they can:
- Increase water pressure in buildings.
- Supply clean water from a JoJo tank or borehole.
- Circulate water in irrigation systems.
- Pump out wastewater or sewage.
- Harness solar power for cost-effective water supply.
What do you need your water pump to do?
There are different types of water pumps for different usage cases, or applications.
What type of water pump will you need? There is no “one size fits all”
Below are the most common types of water pumps used in South Africa.
Each type links to an article with more info on the pump type, including how it works, FAQ’s and pricing.
1. Submersible Water Pump
Submersible pumps are designed to be submerged under water and are ideal for boreholes, wells and drainage solutions.
Known for efficiency and quiet operation.
Example of a submersible water pump – an Ebara stainless steel pump
2. Centrifugal Pumps
A common type of water pump, centrifugal pumps use rotating impellers to move water.
Widely used for general water supply, as well as for irrigation, industrial and HVAC systems.
An example of a typical centrifugal pump – a Dab cast iron pump
3. Solar Pump
A full solar pump uses solar panels to power water movement. They are perfect for farms, game reserves, and households looking to cut electricity costs.
The second solar pump option is becoming popular in houses in cities, as it provides back-up for problems with the municipal water supply: you can get a water pump that’s compatible with your existing solar system, linked to a JoJo tank for reliable water back-up.
Find out how it works and costs for installing a solar pump here.
4. Borehole Pump
A borehole pump ensures access to groundwater in rural and urban settings. They are typically submersible and designed to deliver a consistent water supply.
5. Sewage Pump
Sewage or sump pump systems are specialised for moving wastewater or effluent.
The most commonly used pumps in South Africa include:
- Submersible sewage pumps
- Self-priming centrifugal pumps
- Grinder pumps (for tougher solids)
Find out more about trusted sewage pumps in South Africa here
Popular Water and Booster Pump Brands
At AfriPumps, over the 15+ years we have been operating our shop in Fourways, Gauteng, we have learnt which pump brands work best for typical South African houses, farms and businesses.
Booster pumps are designed to increase water pressure in municipal supply lines or stored water tanks.
How do you go about choosing the right water pump?
Selecting the correct pump depends mainly on these 6 factors:
- Your Purpose – Domestic supply, farming, industrial use, or wastewater management.
- Water source – Municipal supply, borehole, dam, or tank.
- Flow rate required – Measured in litres per minute or cubic metres per hour.
- Head height – The distance water must be pumped vertically.
- Power source – Electricity, diesel, petrol, or solar energy.
- Durability – Materials like cast iron or stainless steel for tough environments.
We recommend
We advise you to explain your needs to a reputable water pump supplier, as they are specialists in the field, and will recommend options for a pump that’s well suited to your situation.
This means that your water pump will work properly and need less maintenance. In addition, it will last longer.
You are welcome to Contact us here for advice.
In Summary
How much a water pump costs depends on the type of water pump you need, and a few other factors, such as the flow rate required and the vertical distance the water needs to be pumped.
Explore our guides on the most common types of water pumps used in South Africa:
– Water and booster pump brands
– Submersible water pump
– Solar pump
– Borehole pump
– Sewage pump
– Centrifugal pumps
