PerformancePro Artesian2 High Head External Pumps

The term “High Head” relates to the pump's capacity to push water against high vertical rise and friction losses. In this case, the Artesian2 High Head models are using an impeller of high RPM that can generate more pressure than the standard (low-head) models do, which means water can now be pushed to a height of up to 94 feet (with the 3 HP model) without any sacrifice in flow rate performance.

The Artesian2 High Head should not be allowed to run dry for more than an extended period. The mechanical shaft seal depends on a thin film of liquid for lubrication and cooling; it can be damaged if it runs dry for more than a few minutes. The self-priming strainer pot will help to stop dry running after power interruptions, but it is good practice to keep the suction line always primed.

The regular pump is intended for freshwater application. In case of saltwater or brackish applications, you should specify the factory-installed Saltwater Kit (at extra cost) which replaces the standard components with PVC shaft sleeve and PTFE-coated S.S. seals with SiC faces that are rated for saltwater environments. This option has to be specified at the time of ordering because it cannot be installed in the field as a retrofit.

The pump has 2" FNPT inlet and outlet ports with 2" unions included. It is recommended to use 2" pipe for the full plumbing run. Friction losses will increase and effective flow and head performance will decrease if pipe diameter is reduced below 2". For runs greater than 40 feet, consider upsizing to 2½" or 3" pipe on the suction side to minimize friction.

Yes, the Artesian2 High Head ranks as one of the pumps most koi pond owners choose for high waterfall features. Pick a model that comes with the GPH flow rate you want at your waterfall height (head). For instance, if your waterfall stands at 8 feet from the outlet of the pump and you wish to have 6,000 GPH at the top of the falls, the A2-3/4-HH (3/4 HP) based on the published head curve is a great recommendation.

Begin with your pond volume and the desired turnover rate (usually every 1–2 hours for a koi pond). Then, calculate the total dynamic head: measure the vertical lift plus approximately 1 foot of head loss for every 10 feet of 2" straight pipe, in addition to extra losses for each 90-degree elbow, valve, and filter. Compare these numbers against the pump performance curves. 

Sure. For freshwater applications, a 3-year limited manufacturer's warranty is supplied when purchased from an authorized dealer like Puget Sound Ponds. For saltwater installations, it comes with a 1-year warranty. The warranty is on manufacturing defects and workmanship, not on damage from running dry, improper installation, or use outside rated specifications.

The PerformancePro MPC-10 ProTect Pump Cover is an accessory that fits and serves to safeguard the Artesian2 pump from weather, debris, and UV exposure when it is installed in an outdoor location. Puget Sound Ponds has the cover of MPC-10 as a companion product with the Artesian2 High Head series.