Reliable borehole water supply depends on more than having a pump installed. The system must deliver the required volume of water at the correct pressure without exceeding the sustainable capacity of the borehole. Borehole water flow and pressure testing helps establish how well the pump, motor, rising main, valves, storage arrangements, and distribution network are performing.
Pro-Logic Technologies Limited provides technical support for borehole water flow testing, pressure checks, pump performance assessments, electrical inspections, troubleshooting, and maintenance planning. These services help property owners, farms, schools, commercial premises, residential developments, and industrial facilities investigate water supply problems and evaluate system performance.
Low water flow may indicate a worn pump, a blocked pipe, leakage, a restricted valve, excessive drawdown, or an unsuitable pump operating point. Low pressure may result from similar problems, but it can also be caused by the height of the delivery point, friction losses, pressure-control settings, or high water demand.
Accurate testing helps separate these possible causes and supports practical decisions about repairs, pump adjustments, or further borehole investigation.
For professional assistance with borehole water flow and pressure testing, contact Pro-Logic Technologies Limited on 0723763173 or visit https://prologictecnologies.co.ke.
WHAT IS BOREHOLE WATER FLOW TESTING?
Flow testing measures the volume of water delivered by a borehole pumping system over a known period. The result helps establish whether the system is producing the required quantity of water under the measured operating conditions.
Flow may be expressed in litres per minute, litres per hour, or cubic metres per hour. The appropriate unit depends on the expected output and the equipment used for measurement.
For example, if a pump delivers 1,200 litres in 20 minutes, its measured flow rate is 60 litres per minute. This result describes the performance observed during that test. It does not automatically establish the borehole's sustainable yield or prove that the pump will deliver the same output under different operating conditions.
A useful flow test should record the flow rate alongside relevant information such as delivery pressure, pumping water level, pump model, and test duration.
Why flow testing matters
Flow testing can help determine whether:
- The pump is delivering the expected volume of water.
- Water production has decreased compared with previous measurements.
- The system is suitable for the intended demand.
- A restriction or leak may be affecting delivery.
- Further assessment of the borehole or pump is necessary.
- A repair or pump replacement has restored the expected performance.
Flow testing is particularly useful when a storage tank takes longer than usual to fill, an irrigation system receives insufficient water, or a commercial property experiences recurring water shortages.
WHAT IS BOREHOLE WATER PRESSURE TESTING?
Pressure testing measures the water pressure at a suitable point in the delivery system. It helps establish whether the system is providing the pressure required by the connected equipment and users.
Pressure may be measured in bar, kilopascals, or other suitable units. The reading must be interpreted in relation to the installation design, vertical elevation, flow rate, pipe diameter, valves, and pressure-control arrangement.
A pump may develop relatively high pressure when water flow is restricted or stopped, yet fail to deliver sufficient water when the system is operating at its required flow rate. For this reason, pressure should not be assessed in isolation.
Static and operating pressure
Static pressure refers to pressure measured when there is no flow at the measurement point under the relevant system conditions. Operating or dynamic pressure is measured while water is flowing.
The difference between these readings can provide useful information about the system's behaviour. However, interpreting the results requires an understanding of the pipework, pump characteristics, and control system.
Why pressure testing matters
Pressure testing can help investigate:
- Weak water delivery at taps or outlets.
- Poor performance on upper floors.
- Inadequate pressure for irrigation equipment.
- Slow filling of tanks or pressure vessels.
- Frequent operation of pressure switches.
- Pressure loss across filters, valves, or long pipe runs.
- Changes following pump repair or replacement.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BOREHOLE YIELD, PUMP FLOW AND WATER PRESSURE
These measurements are related, but they describe different aspects of the water supply system.
Borehole yield
Borehole yield describes the rate at which a borehole can supply water under defined testing conditions. A proper assessment considers water-level response, drawdown, recovery, and the duration and rate of pumping.
The sustainable yield should be determined using suitable hydrogeological information and testing, rather than assuming that the maximum pump output represents the borehole's long-term capacity.
Pump flow rate
Pump flow rate is the volume delivered by the pump at its actual operating point. It depends on the pump's performance characteristics and the total head imposed by the installation.
A pump capable of delivering a high flow under low head may deliver a much smaller flow when the delivery head increases.
Water pressure
Water pressure indicates the pressure available at a particular point in the system. It depends on pump performance, elevation, friction losses, demand, and the control arrangement.
A system can have acceptable pressure but inadequate flow, or adequate flow at one outlet but insufficient pressure at another. Flow and pressure measurements should therefore be considered together.
WHEN SHOULD YOU ARRANGE FLOW AND PRESSURE TESTING?
Testing is useful when the water supply system behaves differently from normal or when its performance needs to be verified.
Reduced water flow
If a borehole previously supplied water quickly but now produces less, flow testing can establish the extent of the change.
Possible causes include pump wear, restrictions, leakage, changes in borehole water level, or excessive demand. Testing should help distinguish among these possibilities.
Low pressure in buildings
Low pressure may be caused by an undersized pump, a faulty pressure-control device, leakage, an incorrectly adjusted valve, or excessive losses in the pipework.
For multi-storey buildings, elevation is especially important. Water pressure naturally decreases as water is lifted to higher levels, so the system must be designed for the required delivery pressure at the destination.
Slow tank filling
A longer tank-filling time can indicate reduced flow, although changes in tank level, valve position, delivery height, or operating schedule may also affect the result.
Measuring actual flow and recording the operating conditions gives a more reliable assessment than relying on filling time alone.
Irrigation problems
Irrigation systems often need a specified combination of flow and pressure. If the pump cannot provide the required operating conditions, sprinklers may perform poorly or drip irrigation may distribute water unevenly.
Testing should include the relevant operating arrangement and, where necessary, the effects of filters, regulators, and the distribution network.
After pump installation or repair
Testing after installation or repair helps establish whether the system is functioning as intended. The results can also provide baseline readings for future maintenance.
EQUIPMENT USED FOR FLOW AND PRESSURE TESTING
The appropriate instruments depend on the system design, expected flow, pressure range, and purpose of the assessment.
Flow meter
A suitable flow meter measures the volume of water moving through the delivery pipe. The meter must be selected and installed according to its operating range and measurement requirements.
Where a temporary measurement arrangement is used, it should not create unsafe discharge conditions or introduce excessive restrictions that distort the results.
Pressure gauge
A pressure gauge measures pressure at a selected point in the pipework. The instrument should have a suitable range and accuracy for the expected pressure.
The measurement point must be selected carefully because pressure can differ across valves, filters, elevation changes, and pipe restrictions.
Water-level measuring equipment
Suitable water-level measuring equipment is used to determine the static and pumping water levels when the test requires borehole monitoring.
The measurement reference point should be recorded so that future readings can be compared consistently.
Electrical test instruments
Electrical instruments may be used to measure supply voltage, motor current, and other relevant electrical parameters. Such checks can help identify supply or motor problems that affect pumping performance.
Electrical testing should be conducted by qualified personnel using appropriate instruments and safe isolation procedures.
Timing and recording equipment
A timer or data-logging arrangement can help record test duration and changes in flow, pressure, water level, or electrical readings.
Consistent records make it easier to compare the system's performance over time.
HOW BOREHOLE WATER FLOW TESTING IS CARRIED OUT
A flow test should follow a planned procedure appropriate to the borehole and pumping system.
Step 1: Review the installation
Record the available pump and motor information, borehole details, pipework arrangement, intended water demand, and previous performance readings.
Where a borehole completion report or pump installation record exists, review it before testing.
Step 2: Check the system before operation
Inspect accessible pipework, valves, electrical equipment, and the discharge arrangement. Confirm that the system can be operated safely and that water can be discharged without causing flooding, erosion, or contamination.
Step 3: Establish the measurement point
Select an appropriate location for measuring flow. The arrangement should suit the flow meter or other measurement method and should avoid unnecessary restrictions.
Step 4: Start the pump safely
Start the pump using the normal approved operating procedure. Observe the initial operation and stop the pump if there are signs of unsafe conditions, severe vibration, repeated trips, or inadequate water supply.
Step 5: Measure the flow rate
Measure the volume delivered over a defined period or record the flow meter reading. Note the test duration and relevant operating conditions.
Step 6: Record pressure and water level
Where the test requires it, record delivery pressure and pumping water level alongside the flow measurement. These additional readings help explain why the system is delivering a particular output.
Step 7: Review the results
Compare the measurements with the pump performance curve, intended duty, previous readings, and borehole information. Determine whether the system is performing as expected or requires further investigation.
HOW BOREHOLE PRESSURE TESTING IS CARRIED OUT
Pressure testing also requires a suitable procedure and measurement point.
First, confirm the pressure rating of the pipework, valves, fittings, and connected equipment. Testing must remain within the limits of the installed system.
Next, install or identify a suitable pressure gauge at the intended test point. Record the reading under the defined operating conditions, including whether the pump is running and whether water is flowing.
Where appropriate, measure pressure at more than one location to identify possible losses across the system. For example, a significant difference between two points may indicate a restriction, although the interpretation depends on elevation and flow.
Compare the results with the required pressure and the manufacturer's specifications. Do not increase pump pressure or change control settings without considering the ratings of the system components.
UNDERSTANDING TOTAL DYNAMIC HEAD
Total dynamic head is a central factor in interpreting pump performance. It represents the total energy per unit weight required to move water through the system under the operating conditions.
The calculation generally considers:
- Vertical lift from the pumping water level to the discharge point.
- Pressure required at the delivery destination.
- Friction losses in the rising main and distribution pipework.
- Losses across valves, elbows, filters, and fittings.
- Relevant differences in elevation and operating conditions.
For example, a pump supplying an elevated tank may need to overcome the vertical distance to the tank and the friction losses in the pipework. A pressurised system may also need to provide a specified pressure at the destination.
If the actual total head is higher than expected, the pump may deliver less water than anticipated. This does not necessarily mean the pump is defective; the installed operating conditions may differ from the original design.
COMMON CAUSES OF LOW BOREHOLE WATER FLOW
Worn pump components
Wear in the pump's hydraulic components can reduce performance. The appropriate diagnosis depends on the pump design, operating history, water quality, and measured output.
Restricted pipework
A blocked or restricted pipe, filter, or valve can reduce the water delivered to the destination. Testing at suitable points can help identify where the restriction may be located.
Leaking delivery pipe
A leak may reduce the amount of water reaching the tank or distribution network. Some leaks are visible, while others may occur underground or in concealed pipework.
Excessive drawdown
If pumping causes the water level to fall substantially, the pump's operating conditions may change and the available output may decrease.
The pumping rate should be reviewed against the borehole's characteristics and available yield information.
Incorrect pump selection
A pump that is unsuitable for the required head and flow may fail to meet the system's demand. The pump's performance curve should be reviewed before replacement is recommended.
Electrical supply problems
Unsuitable voltage, phase problems, damaged cables, or motor faults can affect pump operation. Electrical checks should be performed alongside hydraulic testing where indicated.
COMMON CAUSES OF LOW WATER PRESSURE
Low pressure can have several causes, and a pressure reading alone may not identify the fault.
An undersized pump may fail to provide the required head. A pressure switch or transducer may be incorrectly configured or defective. Leaks and restrictions can reduce the pressure available downstream. High simultaneous demand may also lower pressure in an inadequately sized distribution network.
In multi-storey buildings, the elevation of the outlet must be considered. A system that produces acceptable pressure at ground level may not meet the requirement on an upper floor.
The most useful approach is to measure pressure at appropriate locations while recording the operating conditions and, where possible, the flow rate.
FLOW AND PRESSURE TESTING FOR HOMES
Domestic borehole systems commonly supply storage tanks, household plumbing, or pressure-boosting arrangements.
Testing can help determine whether the pump is delivering enough water for household demand and whether the controls are working properly.
If a tank fills more slowly than usual, compare the actual flow rate with previous readings. If taps produce weak flow, measure pressure at a suitable point and investigate possible restrictions or losses in the distribution network.
Where a storage tank is used, the tank level controls and inlet arrangement should also be checked. A pump may be working correctly while a defective level switch or restricted inlet prevents normal tank operation.
FLOW AND PRESSURE TESTING FOR FARMS
Farms may need different flow and pressure conditions for irrigation, livestock watering, cleaning, and other agricultural activities.
The test should represent the intended operating arrangement. For irrigation, this may mean checking the system while the relevant zones are running.
A pump that supplies adequate water to a storage tank may not be suitable for directly operating a large irrigation network at the required pressure. Storage, pump scheduling, and distribution design should be considered together.
Where a borehole has a limited yield, a suitable storage tank may help balance a steady pumping rate against periods of higher demand.
FLOW AND PRESSURE TESTING FOR COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
Commercial premises may require dependable water supply for staff facilities, cleaning, food preparation, accommodation, or business operations.
Testing should consider peak demand, storage arrangements, delivery height, pressure-control equipment, and the performance of the distribution system.
For facilities with multiple pumps or pressure zones, each relevant operating arrangement may need to be tested separately. Results should be documented to support maintenance planning and fault investigation.
FLOW AND PRESSURE TESTING AFTER PUMP REPAIR
After a pump has been repaired, flow and pressure testing helps determine whether the repair has restored the expected performance.
The test should reflect the nature of the repair and the manufacturer's recommendations. Where relevant, the technician should record electrical readings, delivery pressure, flow rate, and water level.
If performance remains poor after repair, further investigation may be needed. The cause could be outside the pump, including the electrical supply, control system, pipework, borehole conditions, or an incorrect operating point.
Testing helps avoid assuming that a repaired component has solved every problem in the water supply system.
WHY FLOW AND PRESSURE RESULTS SHOULD BE RECORDED
A single test gives a snapshot of performance under specific conditions. A series of comparable measurements provides a more useful picture of how the system changes over time.
Maintenance records should include the test date, pump identification, flow rate, pressure, pumping water level where measured, operating duration, and any relevant observations.
If the flow rate decreases over several inspections, the trend may justify further investigation. If pressure changes while flow remains similar, the cause may lie in the controls or distribution network.
Records are particularly useful for commercial facilities, institutions, farms, and properties where a water interruption has significant consequences.
WHY CHOOSE PRO-LOGIC TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED?
Pro-Logic Technologies Limited provides technical support for borehole water flow and pressure testing, pump performance assessment, troubleshooting, maintenance planning, and related system checks.
The assessment should begin with the reported symptoms and the available installation information. Depending on the circumstances, it may involve flow measurement, pressure checks, water-level monitoring, electrical testing, and inspection of accessible pipework and controls.
Recommendations should be based on the observed conditions and the results of appropriate tests. Some faults can be traced to surface equipment, while others may require pump removal or a more detailed borehole investigation.
For borehole water flow and pressure testing, contact Pro-Logic Technologies Limited on 0723763173.
Website: https://prologictecnologies.co.ke
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the difference between flow testing and pressure testing?
Flow testing measures the volume of water delivered over time. Pressure testing measures the pressure at a particular point in the system. Both measurements are useful because a system can have acceptable pressure but inadequate flow, or adequate flow under conditions that do not provide the required pressure at the destination.
How do I know whether my borehole pump is producing enough water?
Compare measured flow with the system's intended requirement and previous performance records. The borehole's sustainable yield, pumping water level, delivery head, and pump performance curve should also be considered.
Can a pressure gauge identify a faulty pump?
A pressure gauge provides useful information but cannot always identify the exact cause of a fault. Pressure should be considered alongside flow rate, water level, electrical readings, and the system's operating conditions.
Why is my water pressure low upstairs?
Possible causes include the vertical height, inadequate pump head, pipe friction losses, leakage, restrictions, or high demand. Pressure should be measured at appropriate points to help identify the source of the problem.
Should flow testing be done after installing a new pump?
Yes. Suitable commissioning tests help establish whether the pump delivers the expected flow and pressure under the installed conditions. The results also provide baseline information for future maintenance.
Can a borehole produce enough water for a large irrigation system?
That depends on the borehole's sustainable yield, the irrigation demand, the storage arrangement, and the required operating pressure. A flow test alone does not necessarily establish sustainable yield; suitable borehole testing and assessment may be required.
What should I do if flow suddenly decreases?
Record the symptoms and, where practical, the available flow and pressure readings. If the pump appears to be running without adequate water, stop it to avoid possible damage and arrange a technical assessment.
How can I request borehole flow and pressure testing?
Contact Pro-Logic Technologies Limited on 0723763173 and provide details about the borehole, pump, reported symptoms, delivery destination, and any previous measurements.
BOOK BOREHOLE WATER FLOW AND PRESSURE TESTING
Accurate flow and pressure measurements help explain how a borehole water supply system is performing. When these readings are considered alongside pumping water levels, electrical measurements, and pump specifications, they can help identify the cause of poor water delivery and guide maintenance decisions.
Pro-Logic Technologies Limited provides technical assistance for borehole water flow testing, pressure checks, pump performance assessment, and troubleshooting.
Call 0723763173 for service enquiries.
Website: https://prologictecnologies.co.ke
Pro-Logic Technologies Limited — Borehole Water Flow Testing, Pressure Checks and Pump Performance Assessment.