Your borehole pump is the heart of your entire water supply system. Whether it’s for household use, irrigation, or industrial purposes, its correct installation determines not only how efficiently it performs — but also how long it lasts.
Unfortunately, many boreholes across South Africa suffer from premature pump failures, air suction problems, and poor water yield — all because the pump was not positioned correctly during installation.
Let’s unpack why proper pump placement is so critical and what can go wrong if it’s done incorrectly.
πΉ Understanding Borehole Pump Positioning
When a submersible pump is installed in a borehole, it must be set at the correct depth relative to the static water level (the resting water level) and the pump intake height.
The goal is to place the pump:
Below the dynamic water level (the level water drops to when pumping starts), and
Above the borehole bottom to prevent sediment suction.
This precise positioning ensures a steady, clean water flow and protects the pump from damage caused by air, sand, or debris.
βοΈ The Correct Pump Placement — A Balancing Act
The ideal position depends on the borehole’s depth, yield, and geology. In general:
The pump should be at least 3 to 5 meters below the dynamic water level,
And at least 2 to 3 meters above the borehole base.
This allows the pump to stay fully submerged, even when water levels fluctuate during heavy use or dry seasons, while keeping it safely away from settled sediment at the bottom.
π« What Happens If the Pump Is Installed Too Low
Installing the pump too close to the borehole bottom can cause:
Sand and sediment intake, which erodes the impellers and internal components.
Clogged or damaged bearings due to abrasive particles.
Increased wear and vibration, leading to early failure.
Cloudy or dirty water output, especially when the borehole is running at low yield.
Over time, this can completely destroy the pump — often within months — and reduce the borehole’s long-term efficiency.
β οΈ What Happens If the Pump Is Installed Too High
If the pump sits too high above the dynamic water level:
It may draw in air, causing “dry running” that burns out the motor.
It can lose prime or cause erratic flow due to cavitation (air bubbles forming in the pump).
You’ll experience intermittent water supply, pressure fluctuations, and pump surging.
A pump that runs dry — even for a few minutes — can overheat and fail permanently.
πΉ Other Positioning Considerations
Apart from vertical depth, proper alignment and support are equally important:
The pump must hang perfectly straight within the borehole to prevent cable twisting and vibration.
Safety cable and power cable must be secured correctly to prevent chafing against the casing.
Riser pipes and fittings should be aligned and properly torqued to prevent leaks or breaks under pressure.
Professional installers also measure the borehole’s static and dynamic levels before and after installation to confirm that the system operates within safe hydraulic limits.
π§ The Importance of Professional Installation
While a borehole pump may seem simple to install, precision and measurement make all the difference.
A properly installed pump:
Delivers maximum water yield and pressure
Reduces electrical load and running costs
Extends pump and motor lifespan
Prevents expensive maintenance and replacements
Incorrect installation, on the other hand, can cut a pump’s lifespan by more than 50%, and damage borehole linings or electrical components in the process.
π‘ How Panthera Technologies Ensures Correct Borehole Pump Installation
At Panthera Technologies, we don’t just drop a pump into a hole — we engineer every installation to match the borehole’s unique characteristics.
Our process includes:
Full borehole inspection and depth measurement
Static and dynamic water level testing
Pump selection and sizing based on yield and head requirements
Professional electrical and mechanical installation
System balancing, testing, and protection setup (dry-run and overload protection)
By ensuring the pump is positioned precisely where it should be, we guarantee maximum performance, efficiency, and reliability of your borehole system.
π§ Key Takeaway
Correct pump positioning isn’t just a technical detail — it’s the foundation of a reliable water supply.
Installing your borehole pump too high or too low can lead to poor performance, costly repairs, and even permanent borehole damage. A professional installation ensures your investment is protected and your water system performs optimally for years to come.
π·βοΈ Need a Professional Borehole Pump Assessment?
If you’re unsure whether your borehole pump was installed correctly — or you’re experiencing poor pressure, surging, or sediment issues — contact Panthera Technologies for a full inspection and assessment.
Our team provides on-site diagnostics, pump testing, and borehole rehabilitation across South Africa.
π Book a professional pump inspection today and protect your water system investment.
π www.pantheratech.co.za
π 072 645 9606
π§ info@pantheratech.co.za
π Proudly serving homeowners, businesses, and estates across South Africa