Concrete pumps are often preferred over conventional concrete mixture trucks for various reasons. Top on the list of these reasons is that concrete pumps allow for faster and easier placement of concrete.

With this in mind, a concrete pump is a must-have piece of equipment for every serious DIY homeowner. Here are three questions that a DIY homeowner should seek to have answered when buying their first concrete pump.

Which Valves Does the Pump Use?

In order for a concrete pump to perform at its peak, the type of valves used must be matched to the concrete pump requirements in relation to the intended application.

Ball valves are the most commonly used on concrete pumps. The ball valve is made of two balls of steel that regulate the flow of concrete through the pump. Ball-valve concrete pumps feature a flexible hose that allows for delivery of concrete. These pumps run on diesel engines. Pumps with more powerful engines have a greater ability to deliver consistent volumes of concrete over greater distances. Ball valve pumps are commonly used in masonry and similar applications that require low to moderate pressure for the pumping of concrete. S-Valve pumps are also suitable for use in low-pressure concrete pumping applications.

Transfer tube valves are used with pumps meant for higher pressure pumping applications. Pumps that have these valves are often hydraulic powered, and they allow for a steady flow of concrete over longer distances.

What Does Typical Pump Maintenance Involve?

Regular maintenance is obligatory for proper functioning of a concrete pump and for the longevity of its parts. Before choosing one pump over the other, it is important for a DIY homeowner to understand what goes into maintaining the preferred concrete pump.

Ease of maintenance for a concrete pump is dependent on several factors. Accessibility of pump components that need to be cleaned or serviced regularly is among these factors, and so is the complexity of the valve design used with the pump.

Some of the latest concrete pump models have central lubrication systems that allow for stress-free greasing of all critical service points within the pumping system. Investing in a pump with similar self-maintenance features is a good idea.

Are There Certain Pump Components Not Covered by the Product Warranty?

Reputable concrete equipment suppliers will provide a warranty with every purchase. It is important to point out that different suppliers have different guidelines pertaining to their warranties. In some cases, the warranty does not cover certain pump components for reasons best known to the suppliers.

Getting an answer to the above question will help your to avoid unpleasant surprises in the event of pump damage during the warranty period. If you'd prefer to rent a concrete pump instead, contact a company like Hunter Concrete Pump Hire and ask which type would best suit your needs.