In the United States, pumps used for a multitude of purposes consume some 142 billion kWh annually. At a cost of five cents per kWh, this translates to more than $7.1 billion per year in operation costs.A single continuously operated centrifugal pump driven by a fully loaded 100-hp motor will use 726,000 kWh and cost about $36,000 per year. A 10 percent reduction in operating costs can produce $3,600 in savings annually. For wastewater treatment professionals, the lesson is that effective maintenance practices and a survey of existing pumping systems are essential for keeping treatment plant pumps operating well. These
