A variable speed drive (VSD) controls the speed of your pump motor to hold constant pressure, start the motor softly and protect it from dry running, over-current and voltage faults. We stock pump VSDs from 0.75kW to 110kW in 220V, 380V and 525V (AR100 and AR200 ranges, from R3,860), solar pump inverters that run AC pumps from panels, and the pressure transducers, small tanks and fittings that go with them. For complete pump-and-drive sets, see our VSD booster pumps.
- Motor size and voltage: match the drive to the motor’s kW and supply voltage. The AR200 range covers 1.5kW and 2.2kW on 230V single-phase and 3kW on 380V, for booster and small borehole pumps; the AR100 range covers 0.75kW to 110kW in 220V, 380V and 525V.
- What you want it to do: constant pressure for a house, lodge or irrigation needs a drive with a pressure transducer (10, 16 or 25 bar) on the delivery line. Soft start and motor protection alone can run without one.
- Solar: a solar pump inverter takes DC from the panels and drives a normal AC borehole pump, tracking the sun through the day. This is the way to run larger borehole pumps off-grid.
- Installation: the drive needs a dry, ventilated enclosure, the correct cable size (see the cable sizing chart) and a small 2L–24L tank on the delivery side to stop hunting.
A VSD on a borehole or booster pump typically pays for itself through lower electricity use, fewer burnt-out motors and no more pressure switches and large tanks to maintain. Tell us the pump model and what you want to achieve and we will specify the drive, transducer and accessories.
Can I run a three-phase pump from single-phase power with a VSD?
Some drives accept a 220V single-phase input and give a 380V three-phase output for small motors. It depends on the motor size, so ask us for the right model before buying.
What is a pressure transducer and do I need one?
It is the sensor that tells the drive what the water pressure is, so the drive can hold it steady. You need one for constant-pressure control. Choose a 10 bar transducer for domestic systems and 16 or 25 bar for deep boreholes and high-pressure lines.
Will a VSD protect my pump from running dry?
Yes. Dry-run detection, over- and under-voltage and over-current protection are built into the AR100 and AR200 drives, which is why many customers fit one even if they do not need constant pressure.
Do you commission drives?
We supply nationwide and support you with the settings over the phone or WhatsApp. For large three-phase installations we can recommend an installer in your area. Call or WhatsApp 061 744 1001.
Booster Pump Combo
Booster Pump Combo
Booster Pumps
Booster Pumps
Booster Pumps
Frequently asked questions
What size VSD do I need for my pump?
Match the VSD to the motor kW and supply voltage, and choose one size up for submersible borehole pumps or long cable runs. For example, a 2.2 kW 380 V borehole pump normally uses a 3 kW 380 V drive.
Can a VSD run a single-phase pump?
Standard VSDs drive three-phase motors. A 220 V single-phase supply can run a 220 V three-phase motor using a single-phase-in, three-phase-out VSD.
Why fit a VSD to a pump?
- Constant pressure: the pump speeds up and slows down to match demand, so the pressure at the taps stays steady.
- Lower running costs: a pump running at 80% speed uses roughly half the power.
- Soft start: no current spike or water hammer at start-up, which extends the life of the motor and pipes.
- Protection: most pump drives protect against dry running, overload and phase loss.
Choosing the right VSD
Match the drive to your motor's kW and full-load current, and choose the next size up for deep boreholes or long cable runs. Check the supply: small drives take 220V single-phase in and give 220V three-phase out for 220V three-phase motors, while larger drives run on 380V or 525V three-phase. Add a pressure transducer for constant-pressure control.
WhatsApp a photo of your motor's label to 061 744 1001 and we'll match a VSD. Delivered nationwide.