Converting to solar power?

[Jeff H Young]

Id google solar hot water. If its super cold I wonder if those lines could freeze? Probebly some government publication dept of energy or something . just start googling good luck!

 

[thatcherleal]

Converting to solar power for your well sounds like a smart move. I don't have experience with such a deep well, but a friend of mine tackled a similar project on their property outside Dublin. They had a deep pump system for their irrigation and used a consultant to size their solar setup.

From what I recall, they needed a hefty array of solar panels to match the power demands of the pump. It's crucial to calculate both the daily water requirement and the power needed to lift it up to your cistern. Solar panels vary in efficiency, so getting the right number and wattage is key.

Considering your setup, maybe contacting a local expert in solar panels Dublin could provide insights tailored to your specific needs. They often do site visits to assess the best setup for maximum efficiency.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Fitter30]

Knowing the depth, measuring gpm, pipe size, amps , shut off pressure and hp of pump starter. Think you could get close.

 

[Fitter30]

I have a well that is 600' deep. The cistern it fills is another 70' up on top of a hill.
I'd like to convert from grid power to solar power.
Looking at the bill I got when they installed the well, it uses a Webtrol model "L" 3hp 4" pump.

I tried calling Webtrol but they need to know the model number which is probably on the pump at the bottom of the well.
It does not need to pressurize the water, it just needs to lift it the 670'.
The well stays pretty full so I am thinking it really doesn't raise it 670' just from the top of the water in the 6" casing to the cistern.

I need to figure out how many solar panels/watts I would need to fill the cistern (once a day?) on top of the hill.

Anyone help?

Amps times volts = watts

 

[Fitter30]

Couldn't find any info on type L pump. 3 hp starter box 3 wire. 14.4 amps running 70.5 amps starting 240 vac.

 

[Ivango]

Great discussion so far! It’s clear that sizing a solar system for a deep well pump requires careful calculations, especially when factoring in variables like pump horsepower, amps, volts, and total lift distance. As Fitter30 pointed out, the formula Amps × Volts = Watts is essential for determining the energy requirements of your setup.


For Greg’s 3 HP pump, knowing the running amps (14.4) and voltage (240 VAC) gives us a baseline power consumption of approximately 3,456 watts (14.4 × 240). However, accounting for starting amps (70.5) and the 670-foot lift adds complexity, so it’s crucial to size the solar array accordingly. Tools like the volts vs amps vs watts сalculator can simplify these calculations and ensure accuracy when planning your system.


Thatcherleal’s suggestion to consult local solar experts, especially in regions like Dublin, is spot-on. A tailored assessment can optimize efficiency and ensure the system meets daily water demands. For anyone tackling a similar project, combining expert advice with reliable tools will set you on the path to success.