How to Select a Pump for Liquids with Different pH Values

How to Select a Pump for Liquids with Different pH Values

Different pumped liquids may have different pH values. When selecting a pump, first confirm the pH value of the liquid, then consider its composition, temperature, required flow rate and head, and actual operating conditions.

HCP PUMP offers pump series suitable for different pH ranges. The liquid pH can be used to narrow down the available options, but it should not be the only selection criterion. Liquid composition, temperature, and site conditions should also be considered before selecting a suitable pump series and model.



Why Should the Liquid pH Value Be Checked Before Selecting a Pump?

The pH value indicates how acidic or alkaline a liquid is and is one of the important factors when determining whether a pump is suitable for the application.

Different processes, equipment cleaning methods, and chemicals may result in pumped liquids with different pH values. If the liquid pH falls outside the applicable range of the pump, it may affect pump operation and the durability of pump components.

Therefore, it is recommended to confirm the actual liquid pH before selecting a pump, then use the applicable pH range of each pump series to narrow down the available options.



Which Pump Series Can Be Considered for Different pH Values?

The liquid pH can be used as an initial reference when narrowing down pump options:

Liquid Temperature

Liquid pH Values

Pump Series to Consider

Selection Guidance

0~40℃

 pH 5~11

 AF/AL/FN/AN

Select the appropriate series and model based on liquid conditions, flow rate, head, solids, and installation conditions

 pH 3~14

 SF/SA

Stainless steel series can be considered; also confirm liquid composition, temperature, and actual operating conditions


The pH 5–11 range also falls within the pH 3–14 range of the SF / SA Series. Therefore, pH is mainly used to narrow down the available pump options. If both groups meet the pH requirement, the final selection should also consider liquid composition, flow rate, head, solids, and site conditions.

If the liquid pH is below 5 or above 11 but remains within pH 3–14, the SF / SA stainless steel series can be considered first from a pH-range perspective.



How Should a Pump Be Selected for Acidic or Alkaline Wastewater from HVAC Equipment Cleaning?

Chemicals used to clean HVAC equipment may cause the discharged wastewater to become acidic or alkaline. Before selecting a drainage pump, it is recommended to first measure the actual pH of the wastewater, then use the applicable pH ranges above to narrow down the pump series.

If the wastewater pH falls within the applicable range of the AF, AL, FN or AN Series, the pump can then be selected according to the required flow rate, head, and wastewater conditions.

If the actual pH falls outside the applicable range of the AF、AL、FN、AN Series but remains within the applicable range of the SF/SA Series, the SF/SA stainless steel series can be further evaluated.

components of the cleaning chemical, liquid temperature, and information on whether the wastewater contains solids or other foreign matter. This helps determine whether the pump is suitable for the actual liquid and operating conditions.

The same approach can also be applied to other cleaning or drainage applications involving acidic or alkaline liquids: first confirm the pH value, then evaluate the appropriate pump series based on the actual liquid and site conditions.



What Other Factors Should Be Considered Besides pH?

The pH value can be used as an initial reference for pump selection, but it should not be the only criterion. Even when two liquids have the same pH value, their composition, temperature, and contained materials may differ.

Other factors to confirm include:

  • Liquid or chemical name and main components
  • Liquid temperature
  • Presence of solids, sediment, or other foreign matter
  • Required flow rate and head
  • Installation and operating conditions

Providing complete information about the pumped liquid and operating conditions helps determine a suitable pump series and model.



Need Help Selecting a Pump? Contact HCP PUMP

If you have not yet determined the appropriate pump series or model, provide the liquid pH value, liquid or chemical composition, required flow rate and head, and site conditions. HCP PUMP can help further evaluate a suitable product for your application.



Further Reading》

• How Can I Inquire About and Purchase HCP Products?

• AF Series

• AL Series

• FN Series

• AN Series

• SF / SA Series Submersible Stainless Steel Pumps

• How to Understand Flow Rate, Head, and Horsepower When Selecting a Submersible Pump