The two valves open and close alternately as in other piston pumps but they have been specially designed for both long life and very easy maintenance. The pump is designed to be worked by the body's strongest muscles, including those in the arms, back and legs. When the operator pulls on the piston he uses his whole body and his weight to work the pump. Pulling upwards and backwards is the best way to achieve the maximum force.
Most pumps have a pivot and lever.
Because the Rower Pump is designed for drawing water from quite shallow depths a direct pull backwards can generate enough force to operate the pump satisfactorily. The handle is wide enough for two children to work together. No pivot means there is less to wear out and go wrong than with other pumps. There is no tendency for the plunger to be pushed too hard into the pump because it is beyond the operator's comfortable reach, while at the top end of the stroke, if one did pull too hard the whole plunger simply pops out of the pump. If the pump is being used privately for irrigation the owner may very well take the plunger back to his house at night.