Electric Transfer Pumps

About Electric Transfer Pumps

Electric transfer pumps are essential workshop and site tools designed to safely and efficiently move liquids from one container to another. Whether you're working with diesel fuel, oils, water, or other automotive and industrial fluids, these pumps eliminate the need for manual siphoning or heavy lifting of containers, saving time and reducing the risk of spillage. Our range includes both submersible models that work directly inside the liquid and external pumps with suction hoses, offering solutions for various workshop and mobile applications.

Most electric transfer pumps in our collection operate on 12V or 24V DC power, making them ideal for use on site with vehicle battery power or portable power packs. This low-voltage design ensures safer operation around flammable liquids whilst providing excellent portability. Popular brands like Sealey and Draper offer reliable pumps with flow rates ranging from standard transfer speeds up to high-volume professional models capable of moving large quantities quickly and efficiently.

These pumps are invaluable for mechanics, agricultural workers, plant operators, and anyone who regularly handles bulk liquids. From topping up machinery on remote sites to draining oil sumps and transferring diesel between tanks, electric transfer pumps provide a clean, controlled, and efficient solution that's far superior to manual methods.

Jargon Buster

Flow Rate

Measured in litres per minute (L/min), this indicates how quickly the pump can transfer liquid. Higher flow rates mean faster transfers, with professional pumps offering 40+ L/min.

Submersible Pump

A pump designed to operate whilst fully or partially submerged in the liquid being transferred, ideal for tanks and drums where external suction may be difficult.

12V/24V DC Operation

Low voltage direct current power, typically supplied by vehicle batteries or portable power supplies, making these pumps safe for use around flammable liquids and suitable for mobile applications.

Suction Height

The maximum vertical distance a pump can draw liquid upwards from its source. Important when pumping from deep tanks or underground storage.

Automatic Shut-Off

A safety feature that stops the pump when liquid flow ceases, preventing dry running which can damage the pump motor.

Viscosity Rating

Indicates the thickness of liquids the pump can handle effectively. Some pumps are optimised for thin fluids like diesel, whilst others can handle thicker oils and fluids.

Who Uses Electric Transfer Pumps?

• Motor mechanics and auto electricians - for transferring engine oils, transmission fluids, and draining automotive fluids during servicing
• Agricultural contractors and farmers - moving diesel fuel to tractors and machinery in remote fields, transferring agricultural chemicals and liquid fertilisers
• Plant and machinery operators - refuelling construction equipment and generators on site without access to fixed fuel facilities
• Groundworks contractors - keeping site machinery fuelled and managing hydraulic oils for diggers and equipment
• Marine engineers and boat owners - transferring diesel and managing bilge water in marinas and boatyards
• Heating engineers - handling heating oil transfers and system maintenance work
• Fleet maintenance managers - servicing company vehicles and managing bulk fuel distribution
• Industrial maintenance technicians - transferring lubricants, coolants, and process fluids in manufacturing facilities

How to Choose the Right Electric Transfer Pumps

Liquid Type Compatibility: Ensure the pump is rated for the specific fluid you'll be transferring. Diesel and water pumps are most common, but some models handle oils of varying viscosities. Never use a pump with liquids it's not designed for, as this can damage components and create safety hazards.

Flow Rate Requirements: Consider how quickly you need to transfer liquids. For occasional workshop use, a pump delivering 15-20 litres per minute may suffice, but busy workshops or agricultural applications benefit from high-volume pumps offering 40+ litres per minute to reduce downtime.

Power Source: Most transfer pumps operate on 12V or 24V DC power. Verify compatibility with your available power supply - 12V suits standard vehicles whilst 24V is common for commercial vehicles and plant machinery. Some models offer dual voltage operation for maximum versatility.

Submersible vs External Design: Submersible pumps sit directly in the liquid and are excellent for deep tanks and drums, whilst external pumps with suction hoses offer more flexibility for multiple containers. Consider your typical use case when deciding which style suits your needs.

Hose Length and Fittings: Check included hose length is adequate for your applications, and verify that fittings are compatible with your containers. Quality pumps include multiple adaptors and nozzles for different connections.

Portability and Construction: For mobile applications, look for lightweight portable designs with carrying handles and integrated storage for hoses. Durable construction with chemical-resistant materials ensures longevity when handling various fluids.

Popular Accessories

• Replacement hoses and extensions - for reaching distant tanks or replacing worn components
• Nozzle and adaptor sets - different sizes for various container openings and filling points
• Filter elements and strainers - to prevent debris entering clean fuel tanks or systems
• Carry cases and storage solutions - keeping pumps and accessories organised in workshops or service vehicles
• Battery clamps and power leads - spare or extended cables for connecting to vehicle batteries
• Drip trays and spill containment - for clean, safe operation and COSHH compliance
• Flow meters - for accurate measurement of transferred quantities
• Jerry cans and approved fuel containers - safe storage vessels for transferred liquids

Safety Information

Electric transfer pumps must be used with appropriate safety precautions, particularly when handling flammable liquids like diesel and petrol. Always operate pumps in well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources, and never smoke or use naked flames nearby. The 12V/24V operation of these pumps provides inherently safer operation than 230V mains equipment when working with flammable substances.

Ensure pumps are only used with liquids they're designed for - using the wrong pump can damage equipment and create hazardous situations. When transferring fuels, comply with HSE guidelines and the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR). Always have appropriate spill kits available and use suitable containers approved for the liquids being transferred.

Regularly inspect hoses, connections, and seals for wear or damage, replacing components as needed to prevent leaks. Never run pumps dry as this can cause overheating and motor damage. When working in professional or commercial environments, ensure your practices comply with COSHH regulations for handling and storing hazardous substances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an electric transfer pump for petrol?

Most pumps in our range are specifically designed for diesel, water, and oils, not petrol. Petrol requires pumps with specific certifications due to its highly flammable and volatile nature. Always check the manufacturer's specifications - using the wrong pump with petrol creates serious fire and explosion risks.

How do I connect a 12V transfer pump to my vehicle battery?

Most pumps come with crocodile clips or ring terminal connectors. Simply attach the red lead to the positive battery terminal and the black lead to the negative terminal, ensuring good metal-to-metal contact. Never reverse polarity as this can damage the pump motor. Always disconnect the pump when not in use.

What maintenance do electric transfer pumps require?

After each use, run clean fluid through the pump briefly to flush out residue, then store in a clean, dry location. Regularly inspect hoses for cracks or perishing, check electrical connections for corrosion, and ensure filters or strainers are clean. Replace seals and gaskets if you notice any leaking. Proper maintenance significantly extends pump life.

Can submersible pumps be used in shallow containers?

Submersible pumps typically need to be at least partially submerged to function properly and avoid dry running. For shallow containers, an external pump with a suction hose may be more suitable. Some models include automatic shut-off to prevent damage if the liquid level drops too low.

Are these pumps suitable for use on construction sites?

Absolutely. Electric transfer pumps are ideal for site work, allowing you to refuel generators, excavators, and other plant machinery without relying on fixed fuel facilities. The 12V/24V operation means they can run from vehicle batteries or portable power packs, making them perfect for remote locations. Look for robust, portable models from brands like Sealey and Draper that can withstand tough site conditions.