Fuel Comparison Page

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Note: This calculator should be used as a comparison only. All estimates are based on input values and no guarantee of future prices or results is offered. Pump test measurements from a qualified tester are recommended for inputs.

Your Pump Information:

At line 1 – Enter gpm. Gallons per minute are from a flow meter measurement or a pump test that corresponds to the pumping and discharge conditions.

At line 2 – Enter Pumping Water Level in feet. This is the stabilized pumping water level at the above flow rate. If this is a booster pump with pressure on the suction side, enter a negative value here. ( 1 psi = 2.3 feet )

At line 3 – Enter psi. This is the discharge pressure of the pump at the pump's outlet.

At line 4 – Select from drop down New Impeller and Pump Bowl efficiency.New manufacturer impeller efficiency ranges from about 75 to 86%. Larger diameter impellers with large flow rates tend to be on the higher range.

At line 5 – Enter Fuel and Power Costs.

• a) Electric: Use Drop down values. Values for horsepower ranges include demand and surcharges. They are averages based on utility records.
• b) Diesel: The average annual cost should range from $0.80 to $2.50 per gallon, and should not include any maintenance and depreciation cost.
• c) Natural Gas: The average annual cost should range from $0.40 to $0.90 per therm, and should not include any maintenance and depreciation cost.

At line 6 – Select from drop down - Maintenance costs include lubing of all bearings, and all major overhaul operations such as bearing, winding, and contactor replacement. $0.35 per hour is considered typical.

At line 7– Select from drop down - Maintenance costs include tuneups, lubing labor, and any other costs to keep the equipment in good operating condition. High hours of operation have lower maintenance costs per hour. $1.20 per hour is typical.

At line 8 – Enter required acre-feet. Most crops require between 1 and 5 feet of water per acre per year. Inches of applied water can be determined by using ET scheduling programs such as www.wateright.org, dividing by 12" per foot and multiplying by the planted acreage.

At line 9 – Select from drop down - The Diesel engine efficiencies typically range from 25% to 37%. The higher efficiencies are for large, modern, turbo charged engines with electronic fuel injection.

At line 10 – Select from drop down - The Natural gas engine efficiencies in percent, typically range from 24% to 27%. The higher efficiencies are achieved with large, modern, turbo charged engines

After plug in the above numbers into the spreadsheet you will be able to see Cost to Pump Results.

Download Spreadsheet: FuelComparisonModule.xls