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Grundfos' commitment to collaborating with aquifer-sustainability focused customers
Grundfos is committed to aligning itself with customers who prioritise the sustainability of aquifers. This alignment is especially evident in their collaboration with JR Pumps, a family-run business in Adelaide. Owned and operated by John Reynolds, with his daughter Kara Reynolds playing a pivotal role, JR Pumps has been an advocate for sustainable groundwater management for over 35 years
A shared commitment to sustainability
Kara Reynolds, a mechanical fitter with an electrical licence, has been an integral part of JR Pumps for the past 15 years. Her dedication to groundwater sustainability mirrors Grundfos’ commitment to preserving aquifers. This shared vision has made Grundfos one of our preferred suppliers for JR Pumps in a very competitive market.
“Grundfos pumps are not only energy-efficient but also technologically advanced, helping us reduce our environmental footprint while maintaining optimal performance,” says Kara Reynolds.
Promoting sustainability through advanced technology
JR Pumps conduct annual monitoring of water levels, running tests, and comparing data with previous years to assess aquifer health. This meticulous monitoring helps both JR Pumps and their client to understand how aquifers react to extraction and whether water levels are recovering as expected.
“Monitoring water levels and assessing how aquifers are replenishing is crucial for sustainable management.”
"Facility managers frequently request us to perform these checks, so we understand just how important accurate data is in sustainable water management," Kara explains.
Practical measures for sustainable management
JR Pumps install air lines in bores to help clients monitor water levels as well as depthing conduits for monitoring water levels. In some installations, level transducers are installed for monitoring water levels and pump control. These simple yet effective tools allow clients to observe how their water usage impacts aquifer levels, promoting responsible extraction practices.
Additionally, JR Pumps equips all bores with meters to measure water usage accurately. Clients are held accountable for their water consumption, with excess usage monitored and reported. This system of checks and balances ensures clients remain conscious of their impact on aquifers, fostering a culture of sustainability.
“We educate our clients on the importance of monitoring their water usage,” says Kara. “With Grundfos’ reliable technology, they can easily track their consumption and make informed decisions to protect our groundwater resources.”
JR Pumps serves a diverse clientele, including farms, schools, and national parks such as Cleland Wildlife Park and Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens. These clients rely heavily on groundwater, making sustainable management practices even more critical. For example, Cleland Wildlife Park exclusively uses groundwater from three bores and regularly tests its water quality, with Grundfos pumps ensuring reliable performance.
The Cleland Wildlife Park in the Adelaide hills is exclusively reliant on groundwater.
Anticipating and addressing bore problems
Improving bore water management is essential for ensuring water quality and the long-term sustainability of groundwater sources. In South Australia, one common issue is iron bacteria which can negatively impactwater quality. JR Pumps undertake step tests or constant discharge testing depending on the application or conditions, assessing water levels and how quickly water levels recover after extraction. This proactive approach helps identify potential issues before they become critical, ensuring the long-term viability of groundwater sources in the long run.
During the cooler months, JR Pumps finds the reduced demand on bore water allows the natural replenishment of groundwater levels. This seasonal adjustment is crucial for maintaining the health of aquifers and ensuring a sustainable water supply during the drier months.
“Seasonal adjustments are part of our strategy to sustain aquifers,” Kara explains. “With the right management mindset and the correct tools on hand inline with Grundfos’ efficient pumps, managing these changes becomes straightforward and effective.”
Recommendations for selecting the right pump
When recommending pumps to clients, Kara considers several factors, including power supply, bore depth, standing water level and water quality to name a few factors. Grundfos’ pumps, known for their efficiency and reliability, are often the top choice. The advanced technology of Grundfos pumps ensures optimal performance even in challenging conditions. Grundfos utilise three variants of stainless steel to suit the bore water conditions again making Grundfos a great choice. Kara’s expertise, combined with Grundfos’ superior technology, helps clients select the most suitable pump for their needs, balancing efficiency with sustainability.
Grundfos' partnership with forward-thinking professionals like Kara Reynolds highlights the company’s dedication to promoting sustainable aquifer management. Grundfos not only supports businesses like JR Pumps by providing energy-efficient and advanced pumping solutions, but also plays a crucial role in preserving vital groundwater resources for future generations. This commitment to sustainability ensures that Grundfos remains a trusted partner for those who prioritise the health and longevity of aquifers.