What Is a Booster Pump Set (Hydrophore)? Working Principle, Types and Uses

Supplying water at adequate pressure without interruption is a basic requirement in homes and industrial plants. However, mains pressure may be insufficient in high-rise buildings, at points far from the network or during peak hours. This is where a booster pump set, widely known in Türkiye as a hydrophore, comes in: an automatic pump system that delivers water to the points of use at the required pressure and flow.

This article explains what a booster set is, how it works, the main types, where it is used and what to consider in selection and maintenance.

What Is a Booster Pump Set?

A booster pump set is an automatic water pressure boosting system that usually draws water from a storage tank, pressurises it and sends it to the points of use. It basically consists of one or more pumps, a diaphragm pressure tank, a pressure switch or electronic controller, a pressure gauge, a check valve and valves.

Working Principle

1. Suction and pressurisation: The pump draws water from the tank and sends it, pressurised, to the installation and the pressure tank.
2. Storage in the pressure tank: In the diaphragm tank, water compresses a pre-charged air cushion. The tank thus stores a quantity of pressurised water that can cover small draw-offs without the pump running, and it damps pressure fluctuations.
3. Pressure control: The pressure switch or electronic controller monitors system pressure; it starts the pump when pressure falls to the lower set point and stops it when the upper set point is reached.
4. Water distribution: Pressurised water reaches the points of use through the pipework.

Types of Booster Sets

In multi-pump systems, pumps cut in one after another as demand rises; if one pump fails, the others keep supplying water. For details see our articles on multi-pump booster sets and variable speed booster sets.

Applications

• Homes and apartment buildings: Ensures water reaches upper floors at adequate pressure.
• Hotels and hospitals: Used for continuous, reliable water supply.
• Schools and public buildings: Meets high demand at peak times.
• Industrial plants: Used for boosting service and process water.
• Agriculture: Distributes water under pressure in irrigation systems.

Benefits

• Adequate, uninterrupted pressure: The required pressure is provided regardless of mains pressure.
• Automatic operation: The pump starts and stops on its own according to demand.
• Flexibility: Different types and capacities cover everything from a small house to a large plant.
• Energy efficiency: Correct sizing and a suitable control system optimise energy use.

Selecting a Booster Set

• Flow: Determined by taking simultaneous use in the building into account.
• Head: The sum of building height, the pressure required at the highest point of use and the pressure losses in the pipework.
• Demand profile: In buildings with variable consumption, variable speed or multi-pump systems are more efficient.
• Dry-run protection: Always use level or pressure protection that stops the pump when the tank runs empty.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance keeps a booster set running efficiently for many years. It includes checking the pumps for noise, vibration and leaks, checking the pressure tank pre-charge, verifying the pressure switch settings, inspecting electrical connections and cleaning the storage tank and suction strainer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Booster sets are essential building services equipment that deliver water at the required pressure without interruption wherever mains pressure falls short. Choosing the right type, installing it correctly and maintaining it regularly keep the system efficient for years. Browse single- and multi-pump models in our Booster Sets and Hydrophores product group.