These mechanisms include diaphragm, vane, and piston pumps. These differ from a conventional centrifugal pump that needs to spin fast to work efficiently. Centrifugal pumps are used where higher volumes are required. A surface pump is one that is mounted at ground level. A submersible pump is one that is lowered into the water.
Most deep wells use submersible pumps.
The development of solar submersible pumps is an ongoing process that is far from complete. A controller or current booster is an electronic device used with most solar pumps. It acts like an automatic transmission, helping the pump to start and not to stall in weak sunlight. A solar tracker may be used to tilt the PV array as the sun moves across the sky. With more hours of peak sun, a smaller pump and power system may be used, thus reducing overall cost.