Best method for automatically switching on garden pump...

Hi all,

I have two IBC containers, which I'm basically using as water butts. Despite being 2000L combined, as they are at ground level the water pressure in the hose leaving them is quite low. I have a Karcher GP40 garden pump, which is brilliant and boosts the pressure, making it suitable for garden sprinkler system etc.

I want a way to automatically switch on the pump when the water flows. I have looked at pump controllers such as this: (for some reason I can't post links, but ebay item number 392814869710) however they detect pressure and switch on the pump, and require approximately 1.5Bar pressure for switch on, which would require my IBC containers to be metres in the air!

I have also considered a flow switch in the pipe leaving the pump, such as this: (ebay item number 223926085477) which would switch on the pump when water began to move in the pipe. Most of these seem to be 12v switches, but I was considering using a relay to then switch on the pump (which is rated at about 800W I believe).

Would this be feasible?

Any input appreciated!

G

 

Hi, sorry I should have been clearer. When I said sprinkler I meant a micro irrigation sprinkler system, with approx 30 mini sprinklers. I would estimate that each run of the system uses approx 25L, so in theory the two IBCs when full should last for 2mths+.

Good shout on the shower pump switch - off to investigate that.

 

Hi,

Whatever switch sensor you use be aware that your pump takes 650w or more at 240v.

Seems many such switches only have a much lower current handling so will need a 'slave' relay rated at 5 to 10 amps .

Perhaps the flow switches below could be used ? though again you will need a slave relay to handle the pumps current.

You could consider a remote control mains switch instead ?
Remote Controlled Switch Box IP66 - 3 Gang

(Have not used any of these products - expect there are lots of similar ones around )