HIGHER-FLOW MULTISTAGE PRESSURE SYSTEM
Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18 Multistage Pressure Pump
The Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18 is a fixed-speed multistage pressure system designed for domestic clean-water supply, rainwater-tank pressure boosting, garden irrigation and selected pressure-boosting applications.
Davey positions the multistage TotalFlo as the stronger option within its TotalFlo pressure-system range for medium and larger pressure-boosting duties or locations with poor incoming pressure.
The TF117MS-18 combines a 750W single-phase motor, automatic pressure controller, 304 stainless-steel wet end and loss-of-prime protection. Current manufacturer data lists a maximum hydraulic performance of approximately 117 litres per minute and 41 metres head.
Installed Today can offer the TF117MS-18 as supply only or through eligible supplied-and-installed pathways in Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas, subject to the water source, suction conditions, pipework, electrical supply, pump location and required flow and pressure.
Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18 at a glance: 750W multistage fixed-speed pump, 117L/min maximum curve flow, 41m maximum head, 180kPa automatic-controller cut-in, 4.0A current, 1¼-inch BSP female suction inlet, 1-inch BSP male outlet, 304 stainless-steel wet end, IP45 motor protection and a two-year manufacturer replacement guarantee for qualifying manufacturing defects.
CURRENT MODEL
What Is the Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18?
The TF117MS-18 is the multistage pressure-system model in Davey's current TotalFlo Trade Range.
Unlike the smaller TotalFlo jet-pump models, the TF117MS-18 uses a multistage hydraulic design intended to provide stronger flow and pressure performance for compatible residential applications.
Domestic Water Supply
Suitable for clean household-water pressure applications where the required duty falls within the pump's performance curve.
Rainwater Tanks
Can draw from a suitable clean-water tank using flooded suction or a correctly designed suction-lift arrangement.
Garden & Irrigation
Suitable for garden and irrigation applications where the required sprinkler or outlet pressure and flow match the pump.
KEY NUMBERS
TF117MS-18 at a Glance
117L/min
Maximum Flow
41m
Maximum Head
750W
Motor Size
180kPa
Controller Cut-In
HYDRAULIC PERFORMANCE
Does the TF117MS-18 Deliver 117L/Min at 41m Head?
No. Maximum flow and maximum head occur at opposite ends of the pump-performance curve.
The 41m maximum-head figure occurs near zero flow. As water flow increases, available pump head progressively decreases.
The 117L/min maximum-flow figure represents the high-flow end of the manufacturer's curve where considerably less pressure remains.
Size the pump using flow and pressure together. A property requiring 60L/min at useful household pressure is a different duty from one requiring maximum flow with very little remaining head.
Pipe friction, suction lift, elevation, filters, valves, bends and long pipe runs further reduce the pressure available at the final outlet.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18 Specifications
| Specification |
Current Manufacturer Detail |
| Brand |
Davey TotalFlo |
| Model |
TF117MS-18 |
| System Type |
Automatic fixed-speed multistage pressure system |
| Suitable Water |
Clean fresh water free of solids and abrasive material |
| Motor Size |
750W |
| Electrical Supply |
220–240V AC, 50Hz, single phase |
| Current |
4.0A |
| Nominal Speed |
Approximately 2860rpm |
| Insulation Class |
Class F |
| IP Rating |
IP45 |
| Power Lead |
1.8m lead with C38 3-pin plug |
| Maximum Flow |
117L/min |
| Maximum Head |
41m |
| Controller Cut-In Pressure |
180kPa / 1.8 bar |
| Suction Inlet |
1¼-inch BSP female |
| Delivery Outlet |
1-inch BSP male |
| Wet-End Casing |
304 stainless steel |
| Maximum Water Temperature |
35°C |
| Maximum Ambient Temperature |
40°C in the current datasheet specification |
| Manufacturer Noise Rating |
67.8dB |
| Warranty |
24 months / two-year replacement guarantee for qualifying manufacturing defects |
AUTOMATIC PRESSURE CONTROL
How Does the TF117MS-18 Start and Stop?
The TotalFlo pressure controller automatically starts the pump when system pressure falls to approximately 180kPa or 1.8 bar.
When water use stops and flow falls to approximately 0.5L/min, the controller determines whether sufficient pressure has been achieved and then places the pump into standby.
This is an automatic on-and-off pressure system rather than a variable-speed constant-pressure pump.
The TF117MS-18 is not an inverter or variable-speed system. Pump speed remains fixed while the automatic controller manages starting, stopping and loss-of-prime protection.
LOSS-OF-PRIME PROTECTION
Does the TotalFlo Protect Against Dry Running?
The pressure controller includes loss-of-prime or dry-run protection.
If the controller detects a dry-run condition, Davey's current instructions describe an automatic restart sequence with three restart attempts before the system enters a longer hibernation period.
This protection can help reduce damage when the water supply is interrupted, but it is not intended to make dry running an acceptable normal operating condition.
Davey specifically instructs that the pump must not be run dry or with loss of prime. The protection system is a fault safeguard, not a substitute for a reliable water supply.
SUCTION LIFT
Can the TF117MS-18 Draw Water Up From a Tank?
Yes. Davey lists the TotalFlo pressure systems as suitable for both suction-lift and flooded-suction applications.
For suction-lift installations, the manufacturer requires a good-quality foot valve to help maintain prime.
The suction line should be airtight, correctly sized and laid to avoid high points where air can become trapped.
Davey identifies suction leaks as one of the most common causes of poor pump performance.
No universal maximum suction-lift figure should be assumed from the headline pump specifications. Actual suction performance depends heavily on vertical lift, pipe length, diameter, water level and resistance through fittings.
FLOODED SUCTION
What Is a Flooded-Suction Installation?
Flooded suction means the available water level sits above the pump inlet, so water can naturally reach the pump without needing to be lifted under suction.
Davey's installation guide states that flooded-suction installations should include a suitable gate or isolation valve so the water supply can be closed when the pump needs removal or servicing.
This arrangement can simplify priming where the tank and plumbing layout allow the pump to sit below the stored water level.
PIPE SIZING
What Size Pipework Should Be Used?
The TF117MS-18 uses a 1¼-inch BSP female suction inlet and a 1-inch BSP male delivery outlet.
Davey recommends pipework at least as large as the pump's respective connection openings, with larger-diameter pipe considered where necessary to reduce friction on longer pipe runs.
The manufacturer also recommends unions so the pump can be removed more easily for replacement or maintenance.
- Avoid undersized suction pipe
- Keep suction runs as short as practical
- Support heavy pipework independently of the pump
- Avoid air pockets in suction pipework
- Use suitable straining where debris may be present
- Maintain airtight suction connections
RAINWATER TANKS
Is the TF117MS-18 Suitable for Rainwater Tanks?
Yes. Pressure boosting from water tanks is one of Davey's stated TotalFlo applications.
The stored water needs to be clean and free of abrasive solids that could damage the multistage pump.
A suction strainer may be appropriate where leaves, vegetation or other debris could enter the suction pipe.
The TF117MS-18 itself does not provide automatic rainwater-to-mains changeover. A separate compatible water-source management arrangement is required where the property needs automatic mains backup when tank water becomes unavailable.
AUTOMATIC MAINS BACKUP
Can the TotalFlo Be Used With Automatic Rainwater-to-Mains Changeover?
Davey's current TotalFlo installation documentation identifies compatible automatic rainwater/mains-water arrangements using an appropriate AcquaSaver changeover device.
The related TF117MS-18AR configuration is referenced by Davey for use with the larger compatible AcquaSaver arrangement, with the changeover system prioritising rainwater when available and switching to mains water when required.
Do not assume a standard TF117MS-18 automatically includes mains backup. The standard pressure pump and an automatic rainwater-changeover package are different installation configurations.
MAINS PRESSURE BOOSTING
Can the TF117MS-18 Boost Mains Water?
Davey markets the TotalFlo range for pressure boosting from either mains or tank supplies, but its installation instructions warn that direct connection to town water can be restricted by the relevant water-supply authority.
Davey recommends an isolating tank between the mains supply and the pump as the preferred arrangement in many cases.
Where a direct mains connection is permitted and used, Davey specifies that pump casing pressure must not exceed 600kPa.
Do not assume direct mains boosting is acceptable at every property. The proposed plumbing arrangement needs to satisfy the requirements applying to that water service as well as Davey's pump limits.
STATIC HEAD LIMIT
Why Does Outlet Height Matter?
The TotalFlo automatic controller uses a preset 180kPa restart threshold.
Davey's installation instructions state that if the static discharge head above the pump exceeds approximately 18 metres, the automatic controller will not allow the pump to start normally.
This is separate from the pump's 41m maximum hydraulic head.
Maximum pump head and maximum allowable static outlet elevation are not the same thing. The controller's 180kPa starting logic makes the vertical position of the highest outlet important.
CLEAN-WATER PUMP
What Water Can the TF117MS-18 Pump?
Davey specifies clean fresh water free of solids.
The pump is not designed for abrasive, corrosive, flammable or otherwise hazardous liquids.
Rainwater tanks containing heavy sediment, grit or sludge should be addressed before installing a new TotalFlo pressure system.
The maximum manufacturer-listed water temperature is 35°C.
DRINKING-WATER CONTACT
Can the TF117MS-18 Be Used With Safe Drinking Water?
Davey's TotalFlo pressure-system datasheet states that the product has been tested in compliance with AS/NZS 4020 for use in contact with safe drinking water.
This relates to materials in contact with the water.
It does not mean the pump filters, disinfects or makes contaminated tank water suitable for drinking.
The source water and the rest of the plumbing system still need to be appropriate for any potable-water application.
304 STAINLESS WET END
What Is the Pump Wet End Made From?
The current manufacturer specification lists a 304 stainless-steel wet-end casing.
This is the hydraulic portion of the pump through which the water passes.
The use of stainless steel provides corrosion resistance for compatible clean-water duties, but the pump still needs to operate within Davey's stated water-quality and temperature limits.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
How Is the TF117MS-18 Powered?
The current TotalFlo TF117MS-18 uses 220–240V AC, 50Hz single-phase power and is listed at approximately 4.0A.
Davey supplies the system pre-wired with a 1.8-metre power lead and C38 three-pin plug.
The manufacturer requires a correctly earthed electrical supply and advises against long extension leads because voltage drop can reduce pump performance and contribute to motor overload.
If no suitable outlet exists at the pump position, new electrical installation work is separate from a standard pump replacement.
SOLAR POWER NOTE
Can the TotalFlo Be Powered Directly From Solar Panels?
Davey's current installation manual specifically warns that this equipment is not suitable for a direct solar-panel power-supply arrangement.
The pump is designed around the specified 220–240V AC electrical supply.
This should not be confused with a normal grid-connected property that also has rooftop solar. The electrical supply to the pump still needs to meet Davey's specified mains-power requirements.
INSTALLATION POSITION
How Should the TotalFlo Be Mounted?
Davey requires the pump to be mounted horizontally on a firm base.
The manufacturer specifically instructs installers not to mount the pump vertically.
The location should be as close as practical to the water source and allow suitable drainage, pipe support, electrical access and future servicing.
Do not install the TF117MS-18 vertically. The manufacturer's current installation instructions specify horizontal mounting on a firm base.
WEATHER PROTECTION
Can the TF117MS-18 Be Installed Outside?
The pump can be used in outdoor residential systems where it is properly housed and protected.
Davey's instructions require suitable protection from weather, frost and water exposure while maintaining adequate ventilation around the motor and controller.
A pump cover should therefore provide weather protection without enclosing the pump so tightly that heat cannot escape.
The installation should also allow any leaking pipe joint or pump seal to drain without damaging surrounding surfaces.
NOISE
How Loud Is the TF117MS-18?
Davey's current TotalFlo pressure-system datasheet lists a manufacturer noise figure of 67.8dB for the TF117MS-18.
The datasheet does not provide enough context to treat this as a guaranteed sound level at every property.
Actual perceived noise depends on pump load, mounting surface, pipe vibration, enclosure design, surrounding walls and distance from occupied rooms.
Installing the pump on a stable base and preventing rigid pipework from transmitting vibration can improve the result.
MULTISTAGE VS VARIABLE SPEED
Is the TF117MS-18 a Variable-Speed Pump?
No. The TF117MS-18 is a conventional fixed-speed multistage pump combined with an automatic pressure controller.
A multistage pump uses several impeller stages to build hydraulic pressure, but this is different from an inverter-driven variable-speed pump that changes motor speed to maintain a target pressure.
TotalFlo TF117MS-18
Fixed motor speed with automatic on/off pressure control. Simple residential pressure-system architecture.
Variable-Speed System
Changes motor speed as demand changes to maintain a configured pressure within its hydraulic operating range.
The better configuration depends on budget, required pressure behaviour, flow demand and the existing installation.
PUMP SIZING
How Many Taps Can the TF117MS-18 Supply?
Davey does not specify one universal tap count for the TF117MS-18 in its current technical data.
Correct pump sizing should instead consider:
- Required simultaneous flow
- Required pressure at the outlets
- Vertical elevation
- Suction lift
- Pipe diameter
- Pipe length
- Filters and valves
- Garden or irrigation demand
- Available water supply
A 117L/min maximum-flow rating does not mean every house can use 117L/min at normal fixture pressure. The hydraulic curve and site losses determine the real available performance.
WARRANTY
Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18 Warranty
Davey's current TotalFlo product page specifies a 24-month warranty period.
The current TotalFlo datasheet describes this more specifically as a two-year replacement guarantee for qualifying manufacturing defects.
The same manufacturer document states that the product has no serviceable spare-parts or in-field-service pathway under that replacement guarantee.
The warranty should not be described as a long-term onsite service plan. The current manufacturer wording is a two-year replacement guarantee for qualifying manufacturing defects, subject to Davey's conditions.
SUPPLY ONLY
Buy the Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18 Supply Only
Choose supply only where a suitable plumber, pump technician or other appropriately qualified installer is already arranged.
The pump-only price does not automatically include:
- Plumbing installation
- Suction pipe alterations
- Delivery pipe alterations
- Foot valve
- Isolation or gate valves
- Unions and additional fittings
- Suction strainer or filtration
- Automatic mains-water changeover
- Electrical outlet or circuit work
- Pump base alterations
- Weather-protection enclosure
- Existing pump removal or disposal
SUPPLY & INSTALL
Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18 Supplied & Installed
Eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast customers can select a supplied-and-installed pathway where the existing water system and pump location suit the TF117MS-18.
Water Source Check
The installer confirms that the supply is clean, reliable and appropriate for either flooded suction or the proposed suction-lift arrangement.
Hydraulic Check
Suction pipework, delivery pipework, elevation and outlet demand need to fall within the pump's 41m-head performance envelope.
Location & Power Check
The pump requires horizontal mounting, suitable weather protection and an appropriate earthed electrical outlet.
STANDARD INSTALLATION
What Can Change the Installation Scope?
A straightforward pump replacement assumes the existing pump position, pipework and electrical supply are accessible and suitable for the replacement.
Additional work can apply where:
- The pump is being relocated
- Suction pipework leaks or is undersized
- A new foot valve is required
- Delivery pipework needs alteration
- Isolation valves or unions need replacement
- The tank contains excessive sediment
- Mains-water plumbing needs modification
- Automatic mains backup is being added
- A new electrical outlet is required
- Weather protection needs to be provided
- Access falls outside the standard installation conditions
INSTALLATION AREAS
Davey TotalFlo Installation in Brisbane & Gold Coast
Installed Today can provide supplied-and-installed pathways across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas where the TF117MS-18 and the required installation scope are available.
Brisbane
Gold Coast
Supply-only ordering can also suit customers who already have an appropriate installer arranged and only require the pump supplied.
HIGHER-FLOW FIXED-SPEED MULTISTAGE PUMP
Why Choose the Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18?
The TF117MS-18 is the stronger multistage option in Davey's current TotalFlo domestic pressure-system range.
Its current manufacturer specification combines 117L/min maximum flow, 41m maximum head, a 750W motor, 180kPa automatic-controller cut-in, 304 stainless-steel wet end, loss-of-prime protection and both flooded-suction and suction-lift installation capability.
It is particularly relevant where a straightforward fixed-speed pressure pump is preferred and the property needs more hydraulic capacity than the smaller TotalFlo jet-pump models.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions About the Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18
Is the TF117MS-18 Still a Current Davey Product?
Yes. Davey currently lists TF117MS-18 in its TotalFlo Trade Range.
Is It a Multistage Pump?
Yes. The TF117MS-18 is the multistage pressure-system model in the current TotalFlo pressure range.
Is It Variable Speed?
No. It uses a fixed-speed 750W motor with an automatic pressure controller.
What Is the Maximum Flow?
The manufacturer lists 117L/min maximum flow.
What Is the Maximum Head?
The manufacturer lists 41m maximum head.
Does It Provide 117L/Min at 41m Head?
No. Maximum head occurs near zero flow and available head falls as flow increases.
What Is the Controller Cut-In Pressure?
The automatic pressure controller is preset to approximately 180kPa or 1.8 bar.
What Size Is the Motor?
The current TF117MS-18 uses a 750W motor.
What Current Does It Draw?
Davey lists approximately 4.0A.
What Power Supply Does It Use?
It uses 220–240V AC, 50Hz single-phase power.
Does It Come With a Plug?
Yes. Davey lists a 1.8m lead with C38 three-pin plug.
What Size Is the Suction Inlet?
The TF117MS-18 has a 1¼-inch BSP female suction inlet.
What Size Is the Outlet?
The delivery outlet is 1-inch BSP male.
Can It Draw From a Rainwater Tank?
Yes, where the water is clean and the suction arrangement is correctly designed.
Can It Use Suction Lift?
Yes. Davey supports suction-lift installations and requires a good-quality foot valve to help maintain prime.
Can It Use Flooded Suction?
Yes. Davey recommends an isolation or gate valve so the supply can be shut off when servicing the pump.
Does It Have Loss-of-Prime Protection?
Yes. The automatic pressure controller provides loss-of-prime protection and an automatic restart sequence.
Can It Run Dry?
No. Davey specifically warns not to run the pump dry or with loss of prime.
Can It Pump Dirty Water?
No. It is intended for clean fresh water free of solids and abrasive material.
What Is the Maximum Water Temperature?
Davey lists 35°C.
What Is the Maximum Ambient Temperature?
The current datasheet lists 40°C.
What Is the IP Rating?
The current specification lists IP45.
What Is the Wet-End Casing Made From?
The manufacturer lists 304 stainless steel.
Is It Compatible With Safe Drinking Water?
Davey's datasheet states the pressure systems are tested in compliance with AS/NZS 4020 for use in contact with safe drinking water. The pump does not treat or purify the source water.
What Is the Noise Rating?
Davey's current datasheet lists 67.8dB for the TF117MS-18.
Can It Be Mounted Vertically?
No. Davey's installation instructions require the pump to be mounted horizontally on a firm base.
Can It Be Installed Outside?
Yes, where it has suitable weather and frost protection together with adequate ventilation and drainage.
Can It Boost Mains Water?
Davey lists mains pressure boosting as an application, but advises that local supply requirements need to be checked and recommends an isolating tank in many installations. Direct mains pressure must not cause pump casing pressure to exceed 600kPa.
Does It Automatically Switch From Rainwater to Mains?
No. Automatic mains backup requires a compatible changeover arrangement rather than the standard TF117MS-18 alone.
What Is the TF117MS-18AR?
Davey's installation documentation uses the AR designation for the TotalFlo configuration intended to be paired with a compatible AcquaSaver automatic rainwater-to-mains changeover arrangement.
Can It Be Powered Directly From Solar Panels?
Davey's installation manual warns that the equipment is not suitable for a direct solar-panel power-supply arrangement. It requires the specified AC electrical supply.
What Is the Warranty?
Davey currently lists a 24-month warranty, while the TotalFlo datasheet describes the coverage as a two-year replacement guarantee for qualifying manufacturing defects.
Can I Buy the TF117MS-18 Supply Only?
Yes. Supply-only ordering suits customers who already have an appropriate installer arranged.
Can Installed Today Install It?
Eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast properties can select a supplied-and-installed pathway where the water source, suction conditions, pipework, power supply and installation position are suitable.
FINAL CHECK
Is the Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18 Right for Your Property?
The Davey TotalFlo TF117MS-18 is primarily suited to properties needing a relatively high-flow fixed-speed clean-water pressure pump for domestic supply, tank boosting or suitable garden and irrigation duties.
Current manufacturer data lists 117L/min maximum flow, 41m maximum head, a 750W motor, 4.0A current, 180kPa controller cut-in, a 1¼-inch suction inlet, 1-inch delivery outlet and 304 stainless-steel wet end.
Before ordering, check the required simultaneous flow and pressure, water source, suction lift, suction pipe size, delivery pipework, outlet elevation, water cleanliness, electrical supply, mounting position and weather protection.
For supply only, arrange a suitable installer. For eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast properties, select the matching supplied-and-installed pathway and any required plumbing, filtration, electrical, mains-changeover, weather-protection, removal or access add-ons before checkout.
