How Long Can Dirty Water Pumps Be Used For?
Dirty water pumps do an incredible, yet largely unseen, job, in many industries from construction to wastewater treatment. But how long can dirty water pumps actually be used, before they require maintenance, break or need replacing?
There’s no one single answer because the truth is there are many different pumps available for a multitude of uses. So, what factors affect pump usage and lifespan, and how do you pick the right one for your needs?
The Average Lifespan of a Heavy-Duty Dirty Water Pump
The lifetime use you get from a dirty water pump varies significantly and can be anywhere from two to 15 years or more. A well-maintained high-quality pump will happily stay efficient between eight and 15 years. Mid-range or standard pumps typically last between five and ten years. Low-cost or light-duty pumps might last between two and five years, at best.
However, there’s a very important caveat to these timescales – regular maintenance is essential. A neglected pump may fail in as little as one to two years regardless of quality if it’s not looked after properly.
It is essential to bear in mind that routine wear in dirty-water applications can degrade pump performance before complete failure occurs, leading to loss of energy efficiency, head height, flow, or required pressure.
Continuous Running VS. Intermittent Duty
Another key factor in pump longevity is whether it runs continuously or intermittently. Some pumps are built to operate continuously without issue while others require regular shutoff periods to prevent overheating. Operating a pump outside its intended cycle can lead to premature wear, overheating, unplanned shutdowns, or even complete failure.
To make the most of your pump’s life it’s important to follow manufacturer specifications and make sure the pump matches all operational requirements.
The Absolute Importance of Regular Maintenance
We’ve already mentioned it once but we’ll say it again – regular maintenance is vital. Dirty water pumps are built to handle liquids containing high levels of particulate and abrasive materials but that doesn’t mean they are immune to problems. The harsh environments they operate in can cause wear and tear over time, but this can be mitigated with regular and scheduled maintenance.
Things like cleaning the pump, inspecting the seals and bearings and replacing worn parts can prevent breakdowns, unscheduled downtime and costly, unexpected repairs. Proactive maintenance ensures your pump will continue to run efficiently and enjoy the longest possible lifespan.
Selecting The Right Pump for The Job
The right pump for the right application is critical for longevity. Dirty water pumps in the UK vary widely in terms of capacity, particle handling and operational design. For example, some are designed specifically to handle large particles while others are optimised for continuous flow.
Assessing the nature of the water and solids to be pumped as well as the operating environment is the best way to find the pump that will last the longest. Will it be used for handling sewage and sludge or is it intended for dewatering mines? Is it being used for managing water in construction processes or used for cooling in a power plant?
Audex submersible dirty water pumps can be supplied with accessories specific to the fluid contamination, including strainers to prevent oversized material from entering the pump, and agitators to prevent silt from clogging the intake. SlurryPro centrifugal slurry pumps can handle small, sharp grains to large solids, and different inner materials can be specified to suit. For example, rubber elastomer impellers and volute linings are best for predominantly sand-like contaminants, while hard alloy surfaces can be better for larger solids like rock fragments.
High-salinity or extreme pH values of dirty water can affect pump life, and pumps as such should be made with corrosion-resistant materials such as special alloys or non-metallic, chemically compatible composites.
LSM peristaltic and Toro T-Line progressive cavity pumps can handle very thick dirty fluids, including those with ‘ragging’ prone debris.
Expert guidance can make the choice easier, ensuring you purchase a pump that meets your site’s unique requirements. At Atlantic Pumps, we specialise in providing tailored pumps which deliver reliable performance and a longer lifespan.
Environmental Considerations
The environment can have a huge impact on your pump’s usage and lifespan, significantly affecting its durability. Most industrial pumps can cope with rainfall, but should your pump motor get wet internally it can fail. Freezing temperatures can cause ice build-up, leading to cracked casings or blocked impellers, while excessive heat can reduce the maximum run time of an electric motor.
Insulated pump houses, heated jackets, or additional protective measures can safeguard your equipment from environmental challenges, ensuring it lasts longer and performs efficiently.
If you’re looking for a pump that lasts but are unsure which one is best for your needs, we can help. Our experts will advise you on the right pump for the job, implement best practices to extend its life and ensure uninterrupted performance.
For more information on dirty water pumps, download our guide.
