Fresh water pump question

[wwestman]

In the near future, before all the prices go up due to the increased tariffs, I am going to purchase a spare fresh water pump. The question is: is there a reason or downside to getting a larger one than is currently installed? Going from a 3 gph to a 4 or 5 gph? Other than the higher cost what else might go wrong? They appear to be the same, except for the higher amperage draw. Am I missing something?

 

[O C Diver]

In the near future, before all the prices go up due to the increased tariffs, I am going to purchase a spare fresh water pump. The question is: is there a reason or downside to getting a larger one than is currently installed? Going from a 3 gph to a 4 or 5 gph? Other than the higher cost what else might go wrong? They appear to be the same, except for the higher amperage draw. Am I missing something?

It depends.
Assuming that you are talking about your pump for sinks and showers. First you need to match style as some pumps are variable speed without a pressure tank and others are constant speed and require a pressure tank. While it may not be an absolute requirement, when I upgraded my system (higher GPH and higher pressure), I also went to a larger pressure tank to eliminate the pump short cycling.

Ted

 

[Lepke]

You might need heavier wiring for a pump drawing more amps. And a higher gpm pump may need bigger intake plumbing to achieve the rated gpm.
If you're unhappy with the pressure now, you might be able to reset the pressure switch with a higher shut off pressure and a closer start pressure. There are switches that turn on the pump after about a 5 psi loss and the pump runs until the faucet/shower is turned off and shut off pressure is reached.

If you have a diaphragm type pump, it will wear out faster at higher pressures.

 

[FF]

If you look at a Mfg. website many of the pumps have the same pump head , the length (size) of the motor varies

The deck wash or bait well pumps seem to have the largest motors, so are my choice.

A large accumulator is a great help for simple pumps 1-6 gallons is fine.Bigger IS better.