How to choose a submersible pump for drainage: single-phase or three-phase

A submersible drainage pump is used to empty flooded excavations, cellars, sumps and tanks: for clear or cloudy water a drainage model is fine, while for sewage containing fibres and debris you need a grinder pump. First look at the power supply, single-phase for ordinary sockets and three-phase for sites with a suitable distribution board. Then the discharge connection, around 1 1/4", and float switch control.

The types

• Submersible electric drainage pump: the most common type in the collection, for emptying clear or slightly cloudy water. Examples: the DRAIN 200/400, the JD and the PROFI 150.
• JDX-JVX series: the JDX-JVX appears in the collection with two product pages, the drainage one and the general one for JDX-JVX submersible electric pumps.
• SVS-DA: the SVS-DA electric pump, another Wortex series for drainage.
• A 316 series: the A 316 is presented in versions 80, 130 and 200, single-phase (80 and 130) and three-phase (80, 130 and 200).
• GRINDER grinder pump: the GRINDER breaks down solids and fibres, for sewage and water containing debris.
• SP pumps: models of the SP series, present in the collection.

The brands are Wortex, Kärcher and A.M.E.S. srl.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

• Single-phase or three-phase supply: the A 316 exists in both versions. Single-phase for ordinary sockets, three-phase for sites and workshops with a suitable distribution board.
• Hose connection: in the collection you will find G1, 1", 1 1/4" and 1 1/2". Use a hose of the right size and without restrictions.
• Automatic or manual operation: some models have an adjustable float switch, others have the switch on the pump itself. With the first the pump works by itself; with the second you control it.
• Applications: they are stated as domestic and civil use, or agriculture and irrigation: read them on the data sheet.
• Model number: in the A 316 series (80, 130, 200) the number distinguishes the sizes. Compare the data sheets for the exact flow rate and head values.
• Item code: when you ask for a quote, give it together with the model, so that similar versions are not confused.

Common mistakes

• Using a drainage pump for sewage. Solids and fibres clog the impeller: for that job you need a grinder pump.
• Getting the power supply wrong. A three-phase pump will not start on a single-phase socket: check the distribution board first.
• Resting it on the mud. It draws in dirt and wears out: put it on a raised support.
• Pulling it by the cable. The cable cannot take the weight; use the handle with rope or chain.
• Discharge hose with kinks or restrictions. Lay it without tight bends, otherwise the pump performs less well.
• Leaving it to run dry. If the float switch cannot move, the pump runs without water. After use, clean the suction screen.

Frequently asked questions

Single-phase or three-phase: which is better?

It depends on what you have on site. Single-phase plugs into an ordinary socket; three-phase is needed if you already have a three-phase distribution board.

Does a drainage pump also draw in water with mud?

It depends on the model: drainage pumps are for clear, cloudy or waste water according to the data sheet. With a lot of mud, also look at the wastewater pump collection.

Do I need a float switch?

For automatic start-up, yes. It is adjusted so that the pump starts and stops at the right level.

Can I use a hose smaller than the connection?

Better not to: it reduces the flow rate and makes the pump work harder.

You will find all the models in the Submersible Drainage Pumps collection: to choose between single-phase, three-phase and grinder pumps, ask the AMES technicians for a quote or advice.