Do not choose a borehole generator from pump HP alone. The checked size depends on nameplate voltage and full-load current, DOL/star-delta/soft-starter/VFD method, acceleration, other live loads and acceptable voltage dip.
10HP, 20HP and 50HP borehole pump starting point
The figures below convert motor horsepower to approximate mechanical shaft output only. They are not generator-size recommendations.
| Pump motor | Approx. shaft output | Required check before selecting generator kVA |
|---|---|---|
| 10HP | 7.46kW | Nameplate amps, starting method, pump duty and all simultaneous site loads. |
| 20HP | 14.92kW | Starting current, acceleration time, starts per hour and allowable voltage dip. |
| 50HP | 37.30kW | Complete load schedule, starter or VFD data, alternator response and prime/standby duty. |
For the electrical reasoning behind the check, use the three-phase motor generator sizing guide. Send a pump nameplate photo through WhatsApp before accepting a final size.
Why borehole generators should start from pump data
A borehole system may have only one main pump on paper, but the generator still needs to handle the pump motor starting demand, control method and any supporting loads such as treatment, lighting or transfer pumps.
If the unit is chosen only from running kW, the project can still suffer weak startup performance or unstable voltage when the pump starts.
Key checks before quoting a borehole project
The most useful quotation starts with the pump nameplate and operating plan rather than a guessed generator size.
| Project detail | Reason to confirm |
|---|---|
| Pump motor rating | Motor size is the first input for practical generator matching. |
| Starting method | DOL, star-delta and VFD setups can change the generator requirement. |
| Total head and duty cycle | Water system duty affects generator sizing margin and runtime planning. |
| Support loads | Treatment, booster pumps or lighting should not be omitted from the quote. |
| ATS requirement | ATS scope should be defined if the project needs automatic changeover. |
How to request a practical borehole generator quote
Send the pump motor rating, starting method, total head if known, hours per day, ATS need and whether the generator supports only the borehole or the wider site as well.
If the project overlaps with clinic, estate or factory water supply, compare this page with the motor sizing guide, the water factory guide and the clinic backup guide.
Build a borehole-pump generator RFQ
Complete the known project details. Attach the pump nameplate and starter photos after WhatsApp opens.
FAQ
Can one fixed generator size suit every borehole project?
No. The correct size depends on the pump motor rating, starting method, support loads and operating pattern.
Why does the starting method matter for borehole pump generators?
Different starting methods change inrush current and voltage dip behavior, which directly affects generator matching.
What should I send first for a borehole project quotation?
Send the pump motor data, starting method, runtime pattern, ATS requirement and shipping term.