Principles and precautions for selecting the installation location of photovoltaic water pumps

Principles and precautions for selecting the installation location of photovoltaic water pumps

The long-term and efficient operation of the photovoltaic water pump system not only depends on the quality of the equipment, but also is closely related to the installation location of the solar panels and water pumps. Scientific and reasonable location selection is the basis for ensuring system performance and safety.

1. Selection of solar panel installation location

Solar panels are the "energy collectors" of the system and are positioned to maximize sunlight harvest.

Core principles: No obstruction, full sun

Absolutely avoid shadows: The installation location must ensure that no shadows from buildings, trees, chimneys, etc. are cast onto the panel any day of the year, especially between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on the winter solstice (the shortest day of the day). Even local shading can seriously reduce the power generation efficiency of the entire set of panels.

Best orientation and inclination:

Orientation: In the Northern Hemisphere, due south is the best choice. Southeast or southwest directions are also acceptable, but there will be a certain reduction in power generation.

Inclination angle: When installed in a fixed installation, the inclination angle is usually set to the local latitude to obtain the best average annual power generation. If the water is mainly used in summer, the inclination angle can be slightly adjusted; if the water is mainly used in winter, the inclination angle can be adjusted larger. Adjustable brackets are the optimal solution.

Safety and stability considerations

Structural safety: Roof installations must be anchored to the home’s primary load-bearing structure, and the roof’s long-term load-bearing and wind resistance capabilities must be evaluated. The foundation for ground installation must be solid and able to withstand strong winds.

Environmental safety: Avoid locations susceptible to flooding, landslides, and rockfalls, and stay away from areas that may be hit by vehicles and agricultural machinery.

Easy maintenance: The location should be convenient for later cleaning of dust on the panel and regular inspection, and avoid installation on steep slopes or roof edges that are difficult to access.

2. Selection of water pump installation location

The water pump is the "executor" of the system, and its location depends on the water source and system type.

Submersible pump:

Location: It must be completely submerged under the water surface of the water source (well, pond), and the pump body should be at least 0.5-1 meter higher than the bottom to prevent inhalation of sediment and debris.

Key: Make sure the pump body is hung vertically, and the cables and water pipes are well fixed to avoid friction with the well wall.

Surface pump (centrifugal pump, etc.):

Location: Install on a dry, stable, level foundation near a water source. The installation height of the pump must be lower than the water surface (that is, it must have a "positive suction lift"), or it must be equipped with an effective water diversion device.

Key: The water suction pipeline must be absolutely sealed to prevent air leakage, otherwise water cannot be pumped normally.

3. Precautions for controller and cable layout

Controller location: It should be installed in a cool, dry, well-ventilated room or protective box that is easy to observe. Avoid direct sunlight, rain and extreme temperatures.

Cable layout principles:

Shortest distance: Under the premise of safety, shorten the length of the cables from the solar panel to the controller and the controller to the water pump as much as possible to reduce power loss.

Safety protection: All cables should be inserted into flame-retardant PVC pipes or metal pipes for protection to prevent UV aging, rats and insects, or mechanical damage. The specified depth must be reached when laying underground.

4. Systematic comprehensive consideration

Overall layout optimization: On the premise of meeting the above respective requirements, overall considerations should be made to make the connection between various components the simplest and most efficient.

Reserve space for maintenance: Allow sufficient space for operation and maintenance of all equipment, especially solar panel arrays and water pumps.

Comply with local regulations: Know and comply with local regulations regarding building, electrical and water use before installation.

Summary: Lighting comes first, safety is the foundation, and convenience is the most important thing

The essence of choosing an installation location is a plan to “make way for the sun”. Priority must be given to ensuring that solar panels receive unobstructed full sunlight, which is fundamental to system performance. On this basis, strictly comply with the hydraulic requirements for water pump installation, and ensure all electrical and structural safety protections. A carefully planned location selection will lay a solid foundation for the system's stable and efficient operation in the next ten years or even longer.