How does a swivel pump work?
A swivel pump works according to a simple mechanical principle in which water is drawn from a well and pumped upwards by manually operating the lever. The movement of the lever sets a piston in motion inside the pump, which creates a vacuum via non-return valves and gradually draws the water upwards, without any electricity or electronic components.
In times of rising energy costs, an independent water supply in the garden is becoming increasingly important, as it reduces costs and conserves resources in the long term. The Schwengel pump for fountains is a tried and tested solution with a centuries-old tradition that enables reliable water delivery thanks to its robust design.
The most important facts summarised
- A swivel pump pumps water using only muscle power and works completely independently of the mains supply
- For technical reasons, the maximum delivery depth is around seven metres and should not be exceeded
- The simple mechanical design with pistons, valves and levers makes the pump durable and low-maintenance
- Particularly suitable for use in gardens, allotments, holiday homes and as an emergency supply in the event of a power failure
- Regular cleaning, suitable lubrication and complete draining in winter are essential for safe operation
The pumping process
At the centre of the technology is a movable piston within the pump cylinder, which ensures the necessary pressure change. During the upward movement, negative pressure is created which draws in the water, while the downward movement prepares the pumping process. Non-return valves fulfil a crucial function as they prevent the water that has already been drawn in from flowing back into the well, thus enabling a continuous pumping process.
The design of the swivel pump is kept simple and is therefore particularly durable and low-maintenance. A manual swivel pump is suitable for well systems with a depth of up to seven metres and is preferably used where there is no power connection. Typical areas of application are gardens, weekend homes or remote properties where a reliable and independent water supply is required.
The most important components
Pump cylinder
The central element of every Schwengel pump is the pump cylinder, which is made of robust cast iron or corrosion-resistant stainless steel, depending on the version. A swivel pump made of stainless steel offers advantages when exposed to moisture and longer service lives, as the material is durable and hygienic. A solid piston moves inside the cylinder, creating the necessary vacuum to reliably draw water from the well.
Seals and valves
Seals play a decisive role in an efficient and loss-free pumping process, as they prevent water loss and enable a uniform pressure build-up. The system is supplemented by two non-return valves, which clearly regulate the flow direction of the water and ensure that water that has already been pumped does not flow back into the well. This valve technology is essential for the functional reliability and smooth operation of the pump.
Swing arm
The swivel itself is designed as a long lever and enables effortless operation even during prolonged use. A protective cover can round off the design by protecting the mechanism from dirt, leaves and the effects of the weather.
Sustainable and inexpensive DIY ideas
There are many creative ways to water raised beds efficiently and in an environmentally friendly way without having to purchase expensive systems. Simple do-it-yourself solutions offer a good alternative, especially for hobby gardeners who value sustainability.
Here are some tried and tested ideas that are easy to implement:
- Build your own watering system using PET bottles: Drill holes in the lid, stick the bottle upside down in the soil, the water is slowly released.
- Clay cone with water bottle: Stick the clay cone into the soil and place a filled water bottle upside down on top. The clay slowly draws the water out of the bottle and releases it evenly into the soil.
- Moisture reservoir for plants: Combine your raised bed with plants that retain water in the soil, such as Marigolds or clover.
- Recycle old hoses: Drill small holes in an old garden hose and place it between the plants in the raised bed. Connect the hose to the water source to create a simple drip irrigation system that delivers water evenly and sparingly directly to the roots.
- Rainwater utilisation: A rainwater barrel with hose system combines a sustainable water supply with raised beds.
- Do-it-yourself ollas: Use self-made clay jugs or clay pots as underground water reservoirs. To do this, bury the containers in the raised bed up to the edge and fill them with water. They release the water slowly and evenly into the soil through the porous walls.
These sustainable DIY methods save water, reduce costs and promote environmentally conscious garden maintenance. In combination with the high-quality solutions from WISY, efficiency can be further increased for healthy plant growth and resource-saving irrigation in your own garden.
How much water does a raised bed need?
The water requirement of a raised bed depends heavily on the plants growing in it and the composition of the soil. While herbs often manage with little moisture, vegetables such as tomatoes or cucumbers require significantly more water. The type of soil also plays an important role. Sandy soil dries out more quickly, while humus-rich soil retains water for longer. A good rule of thumb is 10 to 20 litres of water per square metre, depending on the weather and plant type. With a well-designed raised bed irrigation system, the amount of water can be adjusted and controlled efficiently.
To avoid waterlogging and evaporation losses, deep watering is recommended instead of surface watering. This strengthens the roots and retains moisture in the soil for longer. A raised bed with a water reservoir is particularly practical here, as it releases moisture continuously and ensures an even supply. Checking the soil moisture, for example with a finger test or a moisture meter, also helps to determine the ideal watering time. Watering regularly and thoroughly ensures strong plants and uses water sustainably.