Davey Pumps: How to Choose the Right Water Pump for Your Home or Property

Oct 9, 2024

Davey pumps are commonly compared by Australian homeowners looking for reliable water pressure, rainwater transfer, household water supply or mains pressure boosting. The right Davey pump depends on what you need it to do, your water source, required flow rate, pressure requirements, pipework, tank setup, electrical supply and whether the pump is for rainwater, household use or pressure boosting.

A pump should not be chosen by brand alone. A quality pump can still perform poorly if it is undersized, oversized, installed in the wrong location or used for the wrong application.

Installed Today offers online supply-only ordering across major Australian metro areas for selected household water pumps, rain water pumps and mains water pressure boosting pumps. Before ordering supply only, confirm pump sizing, pressure, flow rate, water source, pipework, tank setup, electrical requirements and site suitability with your licensed installer.

Quick Answer: Are Davey Pumps Good?

Davey pumps can be a strong option for many Australian homes and properties, especially where the pump is matched correctly to the job. Davey is commonly compared for household water supply, rainwater pressure, garden watering, tank water transfer and pressure boosting applications.

As a general guide:

Davey rainwater pumps may suit homes using tank water for gardens, toilets, laundry or household supply where the setup supports it
Davey household water pumps may suit homes needing pumped water from tanks or other suitable water sources
Davey pressure pumps may suit properties needing stronger or more consistent water pressure
Davey mains boosting pumps may suit some low-pressure homes after the cause of poor pressure has been diagnosed
Pump selection should be based on flow rate, pressure, duty, pipework and water source
Electrical and plumbing requirements must be checked before ordering
Do not add a pump before understanding why pressure is poor

Before buying supply only, get your installer to confirm the correct pump type, size and setup.

What Are Davey Pumps Used For?

Davey pumps are used across many water movement and pressure applications. In residential and light property use, they are often compared for:

Rainwater tank supply
Garden watering
Household water pressure
Toilet and laundry rainwater supply
Tank-to-house water transfer
Mains water pressure boosting
Irrigation zones
Turf watering
Rural and acreage water movement
Pumping clean water from suitable tanks

The best pump depends on the job. A pump for a garden hose may not suit whole-house supply. A pump for rainwater transfer may not be the right choice for pressure boosting. A pump for a small home may not suit a large property with long pipe runs.

Main Davey Pump Categories to Compare

Rainwater Pumps

Rain water pumps are used to move water from a rainwater tank to taps, irrigation, toilets, laundry or household fixtures, depending on the property setup.

A rainwater pump may suit:

Garden watering from a tank
Outdoor taps
Toilet supply where connected correctly
Laundry supply where connected correctly
Tank-to-house supply
Small acreage applications
Homes wanting to use stored rainwater more effectively

Before choosing a rainwater pump, confirm:

Tank size
Water source
Required flow rate
Required pressure
Suction lift
Distance to fixtures
Pipe sizing
Number of outlets
Electrical supply
Whether automatic pressure control is needed
Whether dry-run protection is needed

Rainwater pump suitability should be checked carefully. A pump that is too small may struggle. A pump that is too large may cycle poorly or create unnecessary pressure issues.

Household Water Pumps

Household water pumps are used where a property needs pumped water for household supply. This may include homes using tanks, rainwater systems or other suitable clean water sources.

A household pump may suit:

Homes relying on tank water
Properties needing pressure from stored water
Small acreage homes
Sheds or secondary dwellings with suitable water supply
Properties needing consistent pressure to multiple fixtures

Household pump sizing depends on:

Number of bathrooms
Number of taps
Peak water demand
Pipework length
Height difference
Required pressure
Water source
Tank position
Pump location
Electrical supply

Do not choose a household pump based only on horsepower or brand. Flow and pressure curves matter.

Mains Water Pressure Boosting Pumps

Mains water pressure boosting pumps are used where a home has low mains water pressure and the setup allows pressure boosting.

A mains pressure boosting pump may be considered where:

Water pressure is consistently low
Multiple fixtures struggle at once
The home has long pipe runs
The issue has been diagnosed properly
Local rules and plumbing requirements allow boosting
Pipework and valves are suitable

Do not install a pressure boosting pump before diagnosing the cause of poor pressure. Low pressure can be caused by blocked filters, faulty valves, undersized pipework, supply limitations, pressure reducing valves, leaks or council supply conditions. A licensed plumber should check the issue first.

Davey Rainwater Pump Buying Guide

A Davey rainwater pump may be useful where you want to use stored rainwater around the property. The correct pump depends on whether it is feeding a garden hose, irrigation system, toilet, laundry or household fixtures.

When comparing rainwater pumps, check:

Maximum flow rate
Maximum head pressure
Automatic start/stop control
Dry-run protection
Noise level
Weather protection
Pump housing material
Inlet and outlet size
Water quality requirements
Tank outlet position
Filter or strainer requirements
Electrical connection requirements

A rainwater pump should also be installed in a location with suitable access, weather protection and ventilation.

Davey Household Pump Buying Guide

A household water pump needs to provide enough pressure and flow for the fixtures it supplies. It should be chosen around actual household demand, not just the number of people in the home.

Important checks include:

How many taps may run at once
Whether showers are supplied by the pump
Whether toilets or laundry are supplied
Whether the home has multiple bathrooms
Whether pipe runs are long
Whether the pump is above or below the tank outlet
Whether the system needs a pressure controller
Whether noise placement matters
Whether the pump location is protected

If the pump is too small, pressure may drop when multiple outlets are used. If the pump is too large, it may cycle more than needed or create pressure problems.

Davey Pressure Pump Buying Guide

A pressure pump is designed to maintain usable water pressure. This may be for tank water, household supply, irrigation or boosting applications, depending on the model and setup.

When choosing a pressure pump, consider:

Required pressure at the outlet
Required flow rate
Total head
Suction lift
Pipe friction losses
Number of outlets
Pump controller type
Duty cycle
Noise placement
Water source
Electrical requirements
Whether the pump will run frequently

A good pressure pump setup should be sized for the property’s water use. It should not be selected purely because it has a higher pressure rating.

Davey Pumps for Garden and Turf Watering

Davey pumps may be compared for garden watering, lawn irrigation and turf watering where the water source and system design suit.

For garden or turf watering, confirm:

Number of irrigation zones
Sprinkler flow requirements
Required pressure at sprinklers
Pipe size
Distance from tank to garden
Tank outlet size
Filter requirements
Whether the system uses timers
Whether the pump needs dry-run protection
Whether the pump can handle the duty cycle

A pump that works for one hose may not suit a full irrigation system. Irrigation demand should be calculated before ordering.

Davey Pumps for Acreage and Rural Properties

Acreage and rural properties often have more complex pump needs because of longer pipe runs, tanks, sheds, gardens, animals and varying elevation.

A pump for acreage may need to account for:

Long pipe distances
Height differences
Multiple tanks
Garden and turf watering
Household supply
Shed or outbuilding taps
Pump protection
Filtration needs
Electrical access
Noise location
Weather exposure

For rural water sources, water quality can vary. Bore water, dam water, creek water, carted water and rainwater may need different pump and filtration considerations. Water testing and installer advice may be needed.

Davey Pump Flow Rate and Pressure Explained

Flow rate and pressure are two of the most important parts of choosing a pump.

Flow Rate

Flow rate is how much water the pump can move, usually measured in litres per minute.

Higher flow may be needed for:

Multiple taps
Irrigation
Turf watering
Larger homes
Fast tank transfer
Multiple fixtures running at once

Pressure

Pressure is the force pushing water through the pipework. It affects how strong water feels at the tap, shower, hose or sprinkler.

Pressure requirements depend on:

Fixture type
Pipe length
Height difference
Number of outlets
Irrigation design
Pump location
Water source

A pump needs the right balance of flow and pressure. A high-flow pump with poor pressure may not suit some applications. A high-pressure pump with insufficient flow may also perform poorly.

What Size Davey Pump Do You Need?

The right size depends on the application.

Before ordering, confirm:

Water source
Required flow rate
Required pressure
Number of outlets
Number of fixtures used at once
Pipe size
Pipe length
Height difference
Suction lift
Pump location
Tank location
Electrical supply
Duty cycle
Noise requirements
Whether dry-run protection is needed

Sizing should be checked against pump performance curves, not just product titles or horsepower.

Davey Pump for Low Water Pressure

A pump can improve pressure in some situations, but it should not be the first step before diagnosis.

Poor water pressure can be caused by:

Blocked strainers or filters
Faulty pressure limiting valve
Faulty tempering valve
Old galvanised pipework
Undersized pipework
Leaks
Council supply limitations
Partly closed valves
Clogged fixtures
Poor tank outlet setup
Incorrect pump sizing
Failing existing pump

A licensed plumber should diagnose the cause before a pressure boosting pump is selected. Adding a pump to the wrong problem can waste money or create compliance issues.

Davey Pump for Rainwater Tanks

For rainwater tanks, the pump should be matched to how the tank water is used.

Garden-Only Tank Water

A simpler rainwater pump may suit if the tank only supplies a garden tap or hose.

Toilet and Laundry Tank Water

A more reliable automatic pressure pump may be needed where the tank supplies internal fixtures.

Whole-House Tank Water

A household pressure pump may be needed, with careful sizing based on bathrooms, taps, pipework and peak demand.

Irrigation Tank Water

The pump needs to match sprinkler zones, pressure and flow requirements.

Tank water setups may also need filtration, strainers, first flush systems or other components depending on water quality and use.

Davey Pumps and Water Filters

Some water pump systems may need filters or strainers to protect the pump and improve water quality.

Filtration depends on the water source:

Town water may need less filtration
Tank water may need sediment filtration
Rainwater may need filtration depending on use
Bore or rural water may need water testing
Whole-house supply may need broader filtration planning

Installed Today also offers selected water filters, whole home water filtration systems and Puretec water filtration systems where filtration is part of the broader water setup.

Do not assume one pump or one filter solves every water issue. Pump and filtration selection should be matched to the water source and intended use.

Davey Pump Installation Requirements

Pump installation requirements depend on the pump type, water source and property setup.

Before ordering supply only, check:

Pump location
Weather protection
Ventilation
Noise placement
Electrical supply
Pipe sizing
Isolation valves
Non-return valves where required
Strainers or filters
Tank outlet setup
Pump base or mounting
Drainage around the pump
Access for servicing
Local plumbing requirements
Whether a licensed plumber or electrician is needed

Pumps involve water pressure, plumbing and electrical safety. Use licensed trades where required.

What Is Not Included in Supply-Only Pump Pricing?

For supply-only pumps, the listed product price generally covers the pump product only.

It does not usually include:

Installation labour
Plumbing alterations
Electrical work
New power points
Pipework
Valves
Strainers
Filters
Non-return valves
Pressure tanks
Pump covers
Concrete bases
Weather protection
Old pump removal
Disposal
Fault diagnosis
Pressure testing
Water testing
Compliance upgrades

Always check the product page and confirm site requirements with your licensed installer before ordering.

Davey Pump Maintenance

Pump maintenance helps protect performance and lifespan.

General maintenance may include:

Keeping the pump area clean
Checking for leaks
Keeping ventilation clear
Protecting the pump from weather
Cleaning strainers where fitted
Checking filters where fitted
Listening for unusual noise
Watching for pressure changes
Checking for short cycling
Ensuring the pump does not run dry
Following manufacturer servicing guidance

If the pump loses pressure, runs constantly, cycles rapidly or makes unusual noise, have it checked before it fails.

Common Davey Pump Problems to Watch For

Pump issues are often caused by setup, water source or maintenance problems rather than the pump brand alone.

Common issues include:

Pump not starting
Pump running continuously
Pump short cycling
Low pressure
Air in the line
Blocked strainer
Blocked filter
Leaking pipework
Dry running
Faulty controller
Incorrect pump sizing
Noisy operation
Electrical supply issues

A licensed installer or pump technician should diagnose the cause before replacing parts or ordering a new pump.

Davey vs Other Pump Brands

Davey is one of several pump brands homeowners may compare. The better choice depends on the application, not just the brand name.

When comparing pump brands, check:

Flow rate
Pressure range
Pump curve
Duty rating
Controller type
Dry-run protection
Noise level
Warranty details
Parts availability
Water source suitability
Installation requirements
Electrical requirements

A good pump is the one that suits the task, water source and property setup.

Choosing a Davey Pump for Small Homes

Small homes may need a pump for:

Garden watering
Rainwater tank use
One or two fixtures
Low-demand household supply
Small pressure boosting applications

Avoid oversizing. A larger pump may not improve performance if the pipework, water source or fixtures do not support the flow.

Choosing a Davey Pump for Family Homes

Family homes may need higher flow and more stable pressure, especially where the pump supplies showers, toilets, laundry or outdoor taps.

Consider:

Number of bathrooms
Peak fixture use
Tank size
Pipework
Noise location
Water pressure requirements
Dry-run protection
Filtration needs

A family home pump should be selected around real demand, not just a generic household rating.

Choosing a Davey Pump for Large Properties

Large properties may need careful pump planning because of distance, elevation and multiple outlets.

Check:

Long pipe runs
Elevation changes
Irrigation zones
Multiple tanks
Shed or outbuilding taps
Household pressure requirements
Power availability
Pump location
Water source reliability
Filtration requirements

A larger property may require more than one pump or a more detailed water system design.

Before Ordering Checklist

Before ordering a Davey pump, confirm:

Water source
Intended use
Required flow rate
Required pressure
Number of outlets
Peak water demand
Pipe size
Pipe length
Height difference
Suction lift
Tank location
Pump location
Electrical supply
Weather protection
Noise placement
Whether filters or strainers are needed
Whether dry-run protection is required
Whether pressure boosting is allowed and suitable
Whether a licensed plumber or electrician is needed
Installer confirmation before buying supply only

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Davey pumps good?

Davey pumps are a recognised pump brand and can be a good option when matched correctly to the application. The right pump depends on water source, flow rate, pressure requirements, pipework and intended use.

What are Davey pumps used for?

Davey pumps are commonly used for rainwater tanks, household water supply, garden watering, turf watering, pressure boosting and clean water transfer, depending on the model and setup.

What Davey pump do I need for a rainwater tank?

The right rainwater pump depends on whether the tank supplies a garden tap, irrigation, toilet, laundry or whole-house water. Flow rate, pressure, pipework, tank location and electrical supply all matter.

Can a Davey pump improve low water pressure?

A pressure pump may help in some situations, but the cause of poor pressure should be diagnosed first. Low pressure can be caused by valves, blocked filters, leaks, pipework or supply issues.

What size Davey pump do I need?

Pump size depends on required flow rate, pressure, number of outlets, pipe length, height difference, water source and intended use. Your installer should confirm the correct size before ordering.

Can I install a Davey pump myself?

Pumps involve plumbing, water pressure and electrical safety. Use licensed trades where required, especially for household supply, mains boosting or electrical work.

Do Davey pumps need maintenance?

Yes. Keep the pump area clean, protect the pump from weather, check filters and strainers, watch for leaks or pressure changes, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidance.

Can I use a Davey pump for irrigation?

A Davey pump may suit irrigation where it is sized correctly for the sprinkler zones, flow rate, pressure and pipework. Irrigation demand should be checked before ordering.

What is not included in supply-only Davey pump pricing?

Supply-only pricing generally excludes installation, plumbing alterations, electrical work, valves, strainers, filters, pump covers, pressure tanks, old pump removal, diagnosis and compliance upgrades unless selected or clearly shown.

Final Word

Davey pumps can be a strong choice for rainwater tanks, household water supply, garden watering and pressure applications when the pump is matched correctly to the property. The most important step is understanding what the pump needs to do before choosing a model.

Do not choose a pump by brand, horsepower or price alone. Check the water source, flow rate, pressure, pipework, height difference, electrical supply, filtration needs and site conditions first.

If ordering supply only through Installed Today, confirm the pump choice with your licensed installer before buying. The right Davey pump should suit the water source, intended use and property setup before it arrives.

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