Which is a disadvantage of centrifugal pumps?

Centrifugal pumps are widely used in water distribution systems due to their efficiency and ability to handle various flow rates. However, one notable disadvantage is that they are generally not self-priming. This means that they require fluid in the pump casing before starting, as they cannot create the necessary vacuum to draw fluid into the system on their own. This characteristic can complicate operations, particularly if the pump is installed above the water source or if there are variations in water levels.

In contrast to self-priming pumps, which can draw water from a low level without manual intervention, centrifugal pumps may need to be manually filled before first use or in cases where they have run dry. This limitation can lead to delays and additional labor in certain applications. Understanding this aspect is crucial for water distribution professionals when selecting the appropriate pump for a given application, particularly in scenarios where self-priming features would be beneficial.