6 Best Solar Water Pumping Kits For Irrigation, Livestock and Off-grid Water Supply

Brandon Longo
6 Best Solar Water Pumping Kits For Irrigation, Livestock and Off-grid Water Supply
If you're looking for a sustainable way to manage water on your property, whether for irrigation, water transfer, or creating beautiful water features, a solar water pumping kit is an excellent solution.
Unlike traditional pumps that rely on electricity or fuel, solar water pumping kits harness renewable energy, reducing both your environmental footprint and your utility bills.

However, a common mistake to avoid is investing in a low-quality kit or one that doesn't match your specific needs, whether it's underpowered or completely overkill.

Having sold thousands of these quality units at The Solar Store, we know that the best solar water pumping kit should have a suitable flow rate and pressure for your application, a durable build to withstand the elements, a straightforward installation process, and ideally, a battery backup for consistent operation.

Best Solar Water Pumping Kits Rundown

These options are carefully selected for their reliability, efficiency, and suitability for various water features.

  1. Grundfos 6 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

  2. Grundfos 3 sqf-3 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

  3. Grundfos 25 sqf-7 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

  4. Grundfos 3 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

  5. Grundfos 11 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

  6. Grundfos 6 sqf-3 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

These options are all from Grundfos. Brand choice is crucial when investing in a solar water pumping kit, particularly for applications that require reliability and performance.

We stock a variety of Grundfos options because the SQFlex is a submersible pump range with a built-in drive, making it a versatile choice for various solar water pumping systems.

We will examine each model in more detail, as they cater to different capacities and usage requirements. Before making a decision, it is essential to consider key features to ensure a more informed choice about solar water pumping kits.

5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Solar Water Pumping Kit


Before you purchase a solar water pumping kit, it’s essential to consider a few key factors to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. These are the things to keep in mind:

1. Water Flow Rate and Pressure

Consider the scale of your water transfer needs and the desired outcome. If you need to irrigate a small garden, a kit with a lower flow rate and pressure might be sufficient.
However, for larger agricultural applications, such as filling large tanks or moving water over significant distances, you'll need a kit with a higher flow rate and pressure.

2.Pump Type (Surface vs. Submersible)

Surface pumps are ideal for shallow water sources (under 20 feet deep) like ponds, streams, or shallow wells. They are positioned out of the water and are generally easier to access for maintenance.

Submersible pumps are specifically designed for use in deeper water sources and are ideal for deep wells or boreholes. These pumps are submerged in the water and can push water up from great depths, making them suitable for more demanding applications.

3. Battery Backup

A battery backup is a crucial feature in areas with unpredictable sunlight or for applications that require a consistent power supply.

This allows the pump to operate even when the sun isn't shining or during cloudy periods, ensuring a reliable water source for irrigation, livestock, or household use.

4. Durability

Solar pumping kits must withstand harsh outdoor conditions, ranging from heavy rain to intense sunlight.

Choose a kit with components made from durable, weather-resistant materials to ensure it can handle exposure to the elements. The longevity of your system depends on its ability to endure outdoor conditions without deteriorating.

5. Kit Components and Installation

Consider the ease of installation and whether the kit includes all the necessary components for setup, such as solar panels, controllers, and wiring.

The size and specifications of the components match your specific requirements, with larger systems needed for more demanding water transfer needs.

Full Review of the Top Solar Water Pumping Kits

These submersible pumps can be run by virtually any source of power, 30 to 300 VDC and 90 to 240 VAC.

They can operate on solar panels in a series configuration with a total peak power voltage of at least 30 VDC. Still, their efficiency will be highest at voltages over 100 VDC (10% less efficient at 60 VDC and 20% less efficient at 35 VDC).

1. Grundfos 6 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Grundfos 6 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Price: Starts from $5,629

KEY FEATURES: 

  • 11 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

  • Water flow rate of 10 to 13 gpm

  • 15 to 395 feet lift

BUY IF…

The Grundfos 6 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit is the ideal choice for a reliable pump in medium-sized outdoor spaces, such as gardens or small ponds. It also checks the box for a durable and efficient solution for shallow water sources, with a flexible lift height.

2. Grundfos 3 sqf-3 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Grundfos 3 sqf-3 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Price: Starts from $4,719

Key Features: 

  • Water flow rate of 2.6 to 3 gpm

  • 260 to 655 feet lift

  • A reverse action pressure switch

BUY IF…

This Grundfos 3 sqf-3 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit is ideal for those who need to access deeper water sources, such as wells or boreholes, or require reliable water transfer for irrigation, livestock watering, or household use in off-grid locations.

3. Grundfos 25 sqf-7 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Grundfos 25 sqf-7 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Price: Starts from $5,229

Key Features: 

  • 25 sqf-7 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

  • Water flow rate of 19 to 40 gpm

  • 35 to 185 feet lift

BUY IF…

The Grundfos 25 SQF-7 Solar Water Pumping Kit is ideal for medium to large-scale water transfer applications in off-grid locations, such as agricultural irrigation, livestock watering systems, or filling elevated storage tanks. It delivers 19–40 gallons per minute with a lift capacity of 35-185 feet, making it ideal for high-flow, mid-lift operations. Best for sunny locations, it works directly with solar panels (no batteries needed).

Choose this model if you need a reliable, low-maintenance pumping solution for demanding water transfer needs in remote areas with consistent sunlight.

4. Grundfos 3 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Grundfos 3 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Price: Starts at $4,719

Key Features: 

  • 3 sqf-2 Pre-designed 

  • Water flow rate of 2.6 to 3 gpm

  • 35 to 395 feet lift

BUY IF…

The Grundfos 3 SQF-2 Solar Water Pumping Kit is best suited for applications that require high pressure but low water flow. With a lift capacity of up to 395 feet and a flow rate of 2.6 to 3 gallons per minute, it's ideal for deep boreholes, elevated storage tanks, or household water supply systems in mountainous terrain.

It works great for pumping from deep wells to hillside properties, supplying water to remote cabins or homesteads, or any installation where the water source is far below the point of use.

5. Grundfos 11 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Grundfos 11 sqf-2 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Price: Starts at $4,749

Key Features: 

  • 11 sqf-2 Pre-designed 

  • Water flow rate of 10 to 13 gpm

  • 15 to 395 feet lift

BUY IF…

The Grundfos 11 SQF-2 Solar Water Pumping Kit is an excellent fit for medium-scale water supply applications that require consistent flow from a deep source. It moves approximately 10 to 13 gallons of water per minute and can lift it from depths of up to 395 feet.

That makes it ideal for household water systems, small-scale irrigation, or livestock watering operations drawing from deep wells or underground storage tanks, especially in hilly terrain or elevated properties. It's best used when you need more water volume than smaller models can provide, but still require a strong vertical lift capability.

6. Grundfos 6 sqf-3 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Grundfos 6 sqf-3 Pre-designed SQFlex Solar Water Pumping Kit

Price: Starts at $5,629

Key Features: 

  • 6 sqf-3 Pre-designed SQFlex

  • Water flow rate of 5 to 6 gpm 

  • 295 to 820 feet lift

BUY IF…

The Grundfos 6 SQF-3 solar Water Pumping Kit is ideal when you require moderate flow (5–6 gallons per minute) but extreme lift capacity; it can pump water from depths of 295 to 820 feet. This makes it ideal for household water systems, small livestock operations, or irrigation systems that draw from very deep wells, boreholes, or underground water storage.

Use it in steep terrain, mountainous properties, or remote off-grid installations. It's especially well suited for applications that require steady flow and exceptional vertical lift from very deep sources, rather than high-volume shallow water transfer.

How To Use and Maintain Solar Fountain Pumps for Longevity

Even the best solar water pump can have a significantly shortened lifespan if it's not maintained or used correctly. The lifespan of a solar water pump typically ranges from 5 to 10 years, provided it receives proper maintenance. 

The solar panels generally have a longer lifespan of around 25 years, while the pump itself may last for 5 to 10 years, depending on its quality, maintenance routine, and the operating conditions it faces.

For the most part, proper use means regular cleaning and inspection. Clean the solar panels regularly to ensure they are free from dirt, dust, debris, and any shading from vegetation. This helps maximize the amount of sunlight the panels can absorb and convert to power.

To clean the panels, use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the surface or reduce panel efficiency.

Consider the following measures, too: 

  • Inspect the Pump: Periodically check the pump for any signs of wear, damage, or clogging. Remove any debris, algae, or dirt that may have accumulated on or around the pump’s intake. This will ensure efficient water flow and prevent the pump from overheating or malfunctioning.

  • Check Water Levels: Ensure the water level in your well remains high enough to submerge the pump. If the water level gets too low, the pump may run dry and become damaged. In such cases, refill the water source as needed.

Fortunately, all the SQFlex models in this review have built-in dry run protection and safeguards against overloading and overheating. 

So these extend the pump’s durability and operational life. At The Solar Store, we bring over two decades of expertise in off-grid living and renewable energy solutions. If you need clarity on a more your projects, Request a quote today to find the ideal Grundfos pump.