Which Solar Pump is Better, AC or DC?

No type of motor is superior to the other in all applications; depending on the power needs, location and cost.

• DC pumps are pumped directly off the panels, thus no inverter losses. They start at low sunlight, suit small livestock troughs and household tanks, and handle heads up to about 150 m in the 0.3–2 kW range. Fewer electronic parts mean lighter weight and easier field service, yet cable runs must stay short to avoid voltage drop.

• AC pumps use a solar inverter. This adds cost, but opens the door to larger motors—up to SAMKING Pump’s 20 kW—longer cable runs and simple backup from the grid or a generator at night. Standard three-phase motors are widely available, which helps when you need quick replacement.

• Hybrid systems combine both modes. The built-in controller switches between PV and grid as needed, giving steady water even on cloudy days.

Match the motor type to your daily flow, well depth and access to utility power, then size the array for at least 1.3 × motor wattage.