Energy is one of the biggest operating costs in any pumping system.
Whether it’s irrigation, water supply, HVAC, or industrial processing — your pump may be running for hours every single day. And if it’s not operating efficiently, you are literally paying for wasted energy.
The good news? Most high electricity costs in pump systems are fixable.
Let’s look at practical ways to reduce energy consumption in your pump system — without compromising performance.
1. Make Sure the Pump Is Correctly Sized
This is the most important factor.
An oversized pump is one of the biggest causes of wasted electricity. Many systems are installed “a bit bigger to be safe.” Unfortunately, that safety margin often turns into higher power bills.
When a pump is too large:
- It operates away from its Best Efficiency Point (BEP)
- It requires throttling
- It consumes more power than necessary
- Components wear faster
Correct pump selection based on accurate flow rate and total dynamic head makes a massive difference.
If the pump is properly matched to the system, energy savings start immediately.
2. Operate Near the Best Efficiency Point (BEP) To Save Energy
Every pump has a “sweet spot” — its Best Efficiency Point.
When operating near BEP:
- Vibration is reduced
- Mechanical stress decreases
- Energy efficiency improves
- Lifespan increases
If your pump runs far left or right of this point, efficiency drops quickly.
Even high-quality pumps can waste electricity if they are operating outside their optimal range.
Checking your duty point against the pump curve is a simple but powerful step.
3. Install a Variable Speed Drive (VSD)
In many applications, demand changes throughout the day.
Instead of running at full speed constantly, a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) adjusts motor speed according to system demand.
This can lead to significant energy savings.
For example:
- Irrigation systems with fluctuating demand
- Booster systems responding to pressure changes
- Industrial processes with variable flow requirements
Reducing speed slightly can reduce power consumption dramatically. In centrifugal pumps, power consumption drops quickly as speed reduces.
A properly configured VSD can often pay for itself through energy savings.
4. Reduce System Friction Loss To Safe Energy
Many energy losses happen in the piping system — not the pump itself.
Common problems include:
- Undersized pipes
- Too many bends
- Dirty strainers
- Blocked filters
- Partially closed valves
When resistance increases, the pump works harder.
Improving piping design and maintaining clean systems reduces head loss — which directly reduces power consumption.
Sometimes simple system improvements deliver bigger savings than replacing the pump.
5. Maintain the Pump Properly
A poorly maintained pump consumes more electricity.
Worn components, damaged impellers, or failing bearings increase friction and reduce efficiency.
Regular maintenance helps ensure:
- Seals are intact
- Bearings are smooth
- Impellers are clean
- Clearances remain correct
Even small mechanical inefficiencies can translate into higher power bills over time.
6. Avoid Throttling as a Permanent Solution
Throttling a discharge valve is sometimes used to control flow.
While this works temporarily, it wastes energy long term.
The pump still consumes nearly full power — but performance is restricted artificially.
If flow needs to be reduced permanently, resizing the impeller or installing a VSD is usually a better long-term solution.
7. Consider High-Efficiency Pump Models
Modern pump designs focus heavily on energy efficiency.
In some cases, replacing an older pump with a newer, more efficient model can significantly reduce operating costs.
When comparing options, look at:
- Hydraulic efficiency
- Motor efficiency class
- Expected operating hours per year
The upfront investment may be higher, but long-term savings often justify it.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters More Than Ever
With rising electricity tariffs and load pressures in South Africa, running an inefficient pump system is no longer affordable.
Energy savings don’t just reduce costs — they also:
- Improve reliability
- Reduce breakdown risk
- Extend equipment life
- Improve overall system stability
The pump may represent a large portion of your operating cost. Even small efficiency improvements can make a noticeable difference.
Where Should You Start?
If you want to reduce energy costs in your pump system, start with three questions:
- Is my pump correctly sized for my duty point?
- Is it operating near its Best Efficiency Point?
- Can system design or speed control improve efficiency?
You don’t always need new equipment. Sometimes you just need better optimisation.
Need Help Optimising Your Pump System?
At Pumps Africa, we assist customers across South Africa in evaluating pump performance, selection, and efficiency.
Whether you are installing a new system or improving an existing one, it’s always better to analyse before you replace.
Electricity costs are ongoing.
Efficiency improvements are long-term.
The right decision today can reduce operating costs for years to come.