A water pump is a machine that moves water using pressure, commonly used in industrial, agricultural, irrigation, and residential applications. The cost of hiring a water pump depends on its purpose, pressure capacity, and water volume requirements.

In construction, water pumps help dewater sites by removing excess water, while residential pumps transfer water from underground sources to storage tanks. Most pumps are electric-powered, though some run on gasoline, solar energy, or generators, depending on the available power supply at the site. Solar-powered pumps are especially popular in desert regions where sunlight is abundant.

This guide covers water pump hire rates, the types of pumps available, and key factors that influence pricing and selection.

Discover rates for a wide range of machinery and services in our comprehensive rates guide.

What is the average cost to hire a water pump?

Water pump hire rates depend on type and capacity, with different industries requiring specific pumps for construction, agriculture, and manufacturing. To understand pricing, it's essential to look at different pump types and their intended uses. Below, we outline the common water pump types and their typical hire rates.

Small pumps

Small water pumps are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for small water transfers or dewatering, especially for indoor-to-outdoor use, including draining swimming pools and water features. Due to their mobility, these pumps are commonly used in residential areas.

The average cost of a small water pump in Australia is $40.00 every 4 hours and $50.00 per day. Therefore, a weekly hire costs $200.00. Some models are available for $40 per day or $160 per week, though they may have lower capacity than higher-end models.

Large pumps

Large water pumps, also called large-flow water pumps, are designed to move significant volumes of water over long distances. Commonly used in industrial applications, they handle high-flow water transfer from sites such as drainages, reservoirs, and mining operations requiring efficient water management.

These pumps are ideal for outdoor dewatering and large-scale water transfer operations. Due to their size and power, they are not easily moved and, depending on availability, require a petrol, diesel, or electric engine. Hire rates for large pumps are listed below:

Submersible pumps

Submersible pumps operate using the Electric Submersible Principle (ESP), which reduces pressure at the pump’s base to facilitate efficient water movement. Their high-temperature-resistant motors allow them to be fully submerged in the fluid they pump.

These pumps are commonly used in deep-well applications, such as boreholes and oil wells. They are delicate machines, requiring careful handling due to their long electric cables. A key advantage of submersible pumps is their quiet operation. The cost of hiring a submersible pump depends on its depth capacity and the pressure required for water transfer:

Water pump accessories

Water pump accessories are essential components that ensure proper functionality and efficient operation. These include pump parts, support equipment, and mounting accessories. For example, an automatic pressure controller regulates pump operation by turning it on and off as needed. Common water pump accessories include:

• Strainers
• Discharge hoses
• Impeller kits
• Hose kits
• Control boxes
• Nozzles
• Basins
• Wheel kits
• Hydraulic power units
• Couplings
• Pump bases
• Wheel kits
• Automatic pressure controller.

Hiring water pump accessories can be as costly as hiring the pumps themselves, as many are delicate and expensive to replace. Regular service and maintenance help extend their lifespan and efficiency. For example, replacing a submersible pump cable requires removing the pump from the ground and rewiring it before reinstallation. Hire rates for water pump accessories range from $15 to $40 per day, depending on the delicacy, availability, and size of the equipment.

Dewatering systems

Dewatering systems are designed to remove excess water from construction sites, residential buildings, and other locations. They rely on dewatering pumps, which are installed and powered to transfer water from basements, wells, or excavation sites to designated drainage areas.

Dewatering pumps are specifically built for water removal and play a crucial role in site safety and flood prevention. Proper pump placement ensures access for maintenance and optimal performance. Submersible dewatering pumps typically cost $20 to $40 per day to hire, which may also include installation fees.

Tips for hiring a water pump or dewatering system

Choosing the right water pump ensures you get the best tool for the job. Consider the following factors before hiring:

• Electric pumps vs. gas water pumps: Electric water pumps are ideal for indoor use, as they plug into mains power. Gas water pumps are better for construction sites and heavy-duty tasks, offering powerful engines for high-demand applications. Proper handling ensures safe operation, especially in hazardous environments.
  
  
• Water pump application: Before hiring, Determine how the pump will be used. Dewatering pumps should be mobile for easy movement, while submersible pumps must be inserted into the ground for deep-water applications.
  
  
• Look for ratings: Check the pump’s total head lift (THL), suction head (SH), and gallons per minute (GPM) to ensure it meets your job's demands. These ratings help match the right pump to your workload.
  
  
• Availability of accessories – Accessories like strainers, hoses, control boxes, and pump bases improve efficiency. Ensuring they are available before hiring can help avoid work delays.

Find water pump hire through iseekplant

Water pumps are extremely useful for industrial, irrigation, agricultural, and residential projects. Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, or builder, iseekplant connects you with trusted water pump suppliers across Australia, including Perth, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, and Melbourne.