Water pumps for garden and home: submersible, surface, rain barrel and household water supply pumps. The category holds over 70 models, including GARDENA, EINHELL, Kärcher and METABO. It suits anyone who needs to water a garden, clear a flooded cellar or draw water from a well.
How to choose a water pump
Type of water and purpose. Clean water pumps are not meant for water carrying silt, sand or leaves, as they clog and wear quickly. For dirty water, pick a model that states the maximum size of solid particles it can pass. A small pump is enough for watering from a rain barrel, while a flooded cellar calls for a drainage pump.
Flow rate and pressure. Flow rate, given in litres per hour, shows how much water the pump moves. Pressure and maximum lift show how high and how far it can push it. Sprinklers depend more on pressure, while drainage and emptying barrels depend more on flow. Count a long hose as part of the lift, since it reduces pressure.
Power source. A mains pump can run for long periods without interruption. A cordless pump is handy where there is no socket, but it works only as long as the battery lasts. If you already own cordless tools from one maker, check whether the pump uses the same battery system.
Submersible or surface. A submersible pump sits directly in the water, usually runs more quietly and needs no priming. A surface pump stays on dry ground and is easier to maintain, but most are noisier and the suction hose must be filled with water before starting.
Connections and protection. Check the hose connector size before buying so you do not need extra adaptors. Dry-run protection and a float switch, which stops the pump once the water reaches a set level, are worth having.
Brands we carry
- GARDENA: known for garden watering systems and quick-release hose connectors, so its pumps are easy to combine with other watering accessories. It is the largest part of our range.
- EINHELL: a German maker whose Power X-Change battery system works across many garden and workshop tools.
- Kärcher: best known for pressure washers and cleaning equipment, and also makes garden and rain barrel pumps.
- METABO: a professional power tool maker that also offers household water supply pumps.
- MAKITA: a Japanese brand known for its LXT cordless system, where one battery fits many tools.
- BOSCH: a German group that gives its garden equipment a dedicated green product line.
Also in our range: Gloria Haus und Garten, Renkforce, EMSA, Scheppach, Fiskars and Pressol.
Frequently asked questions about water pumps
Which pump is best for watering from a rain barrel?
A small submersible pump or a dedicated barrel pump is usually enough, because rainwater is fairly clean. What matters most is that it gives enough pressure for your hose or sprinkler and has the right connector. If leaves or sludge collect in the barrel, choose a model with a filter.
What is the difference between a submersible and a surface water pump?
A submersible pump works under water, while a surface pump stands beside the water source and draws water up through a hose. Submersible pumps are simpler to start and generally quieter. Surface pumps are easier to maintain because they do not have to be lifted out of the water.
Can a clean water pump be used for dirty water?
No, a clean water pump is not suitable for water containing silt, sand or larger particles. Such particles can clog or quickly wear the impeller. A dirty water pump states the largest particle size it can handle.
How do I work out what flow rate I need?
Look at how much water the biggest connected user, such as a garden sprinkler, consumes, and choose a pump with some margin. When working out lift, add the height difference to the length of the hose. If in doubt, go for a model with slightly higher flow.
