How To Calculate The Flowrate Of A Pump

How To Calculate The Flowrate Of A Pump - Pump Flowrate Calculator

Have you ever had a situation where you suspect that a pump may have slowed down, or may need to be upgraded / improved. Well here is an easy way to check.

1. First, get a container that can be used to collect the water from the Pump / Waterfall (ideally, this should be at least 2 gallons or 9 litres, as accuracy is increased with a bigger container.
2. Secondly you will need a watch with a second hand to measure the time in seconds.
3. Now the best bit. Time how long it takes in seconds to fill the container up, with the water coming out of the Pump / Filter or from the waterfall and then answer the following question and press calculate.

Why Might The Flowrate Be Low ?

The main thing to remember, is that there are a lot of causes for lower than expected flowrates, other than a faulty pump. In fact, the most common cause of a low flowrate is the way in which it has been installed. Before you come to the conclusion that a pump is under performing, have a look at some possible causes.

Start off with the easy stuff, is the pump clogged up, has one of the flexible pipes been blocked or squashed. Checking the basics is always the best way to start. And don't forget, if you are using a filter with a spray bar, remember to check that it is not blocked up with blanket weed.