
For home gardens, farms and industrial sites, they can deliver steady pressure, reduce noise and avoid many priming issues linked with surface pumps. Let’s look at where they work best, why they are effective and what to consider before you buy.
A Submersible Water Pump Works Below The Water Surface
This type of pump sits directly in the water it is moving. Because it is already submerged, it can push water upward and through the pipework with less risk of losing prime. This is useful where suction lift would be difficult or unreliable.
The submerged position also helps with cooling and noise reduction. Water around the pump can assist with temperature control, while the location below the surface keeps operation quieter than many above ground pump setups.
A Submersible Well Pump Supports Bores And Deep Water Sources
For bores and wells, a submersible well pump is often the preferred option because it is designed for deeper installations. Instead of depending on suction from above, the pump builds pressure as water travels upward through the line.
This helps support consistent irrigation performance, especially across longer pipe runs or multiple watering zones. Reliable pressure helps sprinklers hold their pattern and helps dripline output stay more even.
Submersible Pumps Suit Irrigation, Transfer And Dewatering Jobs

Because the motor is sealed, the pump is built for wet environments when installed correctly. It can also free up surface space, improve site safety and protect equipment from weather or accidental damage.
Correct Sizing Helps The Pump Run Efficiently
Before choosing a model, confirm the required flow rate, total head and duty cycle. Flow rate is how much water the pump needs to deliver. Total head includes lift, pressure requirements, pipe friction and fitting losses. Duty cycle refers to how long and how often the pump will run.
A pump that is too small may struggle to meet demand and run for too long. A pump that is too large can short cycle, waste power and increase wear on control gear. Matching the pump to the job helps improve efficiency and extends service life.
Controls And Protection Features Reduce Failures
The controller and protection devices are just as important as the pump itself. Depending on the application, you may need a pressure controller, pressure tank, constant pressure drive, float switch or low water cut out device.
Dry run protection is especially important where water levels may drop. In bores and tanks, sensors or float switches can help prevent damage before the pump runs without enough water. Thermal protection, overload protection and restart delays can also reduce stress on the motor.
Installation Details Affect Long Term Performance

Discharge plumbing should include suitable valves, service access and a layout that avoids sharp bends where possible. For bore installations, the pump should be positioned to reduce sediment intake. For sump and dewatering applications, strainers or screens can help stop debris from entering the impeller.
Maintenance Is Easier When Access Is Planned Early
Submerged equipment still needs routine checks. Filters, strainers and intake screens should be inspected on a schedule that suits your water quality. If bore water carries sand, silt or organic matter, filtration or separation may be needed to protect internal components.
Plan retrieval before installation is complete. If the pump is in a bore, confirm how it will be lifted safely and how pipework and cable will be managed. For sumps, keep access clear so the pump can be removed without dismantling nearby fittings or structures.
Choosing The Right Model Starts With Practical Site Details
Start with the water source. Confirm whether the system is drawing from a bore, tank, well, dam or sump. Then confirm the outlet requirement. The pump may need to supply sprinklers, support constant pressure, transfer water between tanks or remove water from a low area.
Water quality, depth, drawdown, pipe size and run length should also be reviewed before choosing a model. It is also worth asking about parts support and servicing in WA, because an easy to maintain pump can provide better long term value than a cheaper unit with limited support.
Contact WA Reticulation Supplies
If you are planning a bore setup, tank transfer system or dewatering solution, WA Reticulation Supplies can help you choose the right components for your site.
Contact us to speak with our team and get practical guidance before you purchase at 4/277 South West Highway, Armadale or 3/12 Lloyd Street in Midland or 8/117-119 Dixon Road, Rockingham. Or call the team for expert advice on Armadale (08) 9399 9399 or Midland (08) 9274 5500 or Rockingham (08) 9529 1000.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. What Are Submersible Pumps Used For?
They are commonly used for bores, wells, tanks, sumps, drainage pits, irrigation supply and water transfer. Their below surface design makes them useful where water needs to be pushed from a submerged source.
2. Are Submersible Pumps Better Than Surface Pumps?
It depends on the application. Submersible pumps are often better for deeper water sources, bores and sumps because they do not rely on suction from above. Surface pumps may still suit shallow suction work, tank systems and some above ground applications.
3. How Do I Know What Size Pump I Need?
The right pump size depends on required flow, total head, pipe length, installation depth, pressure needs and duty cycle. These details help match the pump to the actual job instead of choosing based on horsepower alone.
4. What Protection Features Should I Consider?Dry run protection, overload protection, thermal protection, float switches and low water cut out devices can help prevent damage. The best option depends on the water source and how the pump will be used.
5. How Often Should A Submersible Pump Be Maintained?
Maintenance depends on water quality and usage. Filters, strainers, intake screens and controller settings should be checked regularly, especially where water contains sand, silt or debris.