Solar powered pumping systems

[elmbar]

Has anyone any experiences to share on solar pumping systems? What equipment was used - what worked well and what didn't. I would be most interested in systems that pump from dugouts or shallow wells.

[gallard]

We have used a solar system purchased from Can. Ag Tech Partners at Olds 7 years ago. We have pumped from 4 different dugouts during the pasture season. we have the panel and pumps on a skid set-up and move it from location to location. We pump into 4' cluverts cut in half with capacity of 20 gals./min. from the pump.This has been a trouble free system and we think we have had good value

[elmbar]

Thanks for the info. What sort of delivery system do you use - float valve from raised storage tank or ? What amount of storage/head do you use - I would be watering cow/calf pairs or ylg hfrs mostly. I understand that a 3 day reserve is minimum - does that seem reasonable from your experience? Any maintaince problems to be concerned about? How have you found the longevity of the deep cycle batteries - any makes or sizes better than others? I appreciate being able to pick your brain!

[gallard]

Sorry it has taken so long to get back on track. The deep cycle batteries we have are Navigator and they came with the system 7 years ago. We re-charge them a couple of times through the winter and have had no problems. We have a number of dugouts on several quarters and we just pull the panels and pump up prime the pump and let it work. We use a demand system into a water tank and hope the float will keep the tank full. There is enough water in the tank for a few hours with the numbers drinking. Hope this helps.