Calling all pump experts

[Terryl]

OK kids, I have two 1200 gallon water storage tanks that retain the water from the showers and washing machine, I use this for watering the trees.

I'm having a problem with the submersible water pump that I use to pump the water out to the trees.(tanks are tied together by 2" PVC pipe)

It is a standard submersible utility type pump used to draw water out of a sump, pool or any other type of ditch. (see the link below)

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Utilitech-0-33-HP-Thermoplastic-Submersible-Utility-Pump/3747643

I have replace this type of pump twice in 5 years, the pump stays in the tank al the time, it blows the GFI breaker now, I will remove it when it gets cooler tonight.

But is this type of pump is not rated for constant submersion in water all the time, and that's why it keeps blowing up??? I don't know much about pumps, so what should I be using??? Anything under $200 would be nice.

[Gabacho]

It seems pretty simple. Find one for permanent submersion or take it out of the water when not in use.

[dishuser]

get a sump pump and you can set it when to run by height of water

[auggie]

You can check them out here: harborfreight.com/12-hp-submersible-sump-pump-with-vertical-float-3800-gph-63322.html

[steveOtoo]

Why use a submersible at all. I would mount a shallow well irrigation pump higher than the tanks and insert a 2" pickup tube into the tank. I also would use a 24vac contactor tied to a float control...

[dishuser]

a sump pump is half that price

[Arlo]

I have the same type of pump. The motor section is full of mineral oil to cool it even if run dry.
Over time the oil leaks out around the gasket and shuts down on hi temp.
Or water leaks in the motor and that's probably what is tripping the GFI. If so, it may be toast.
If you're lucky you can take it apart and refill it with oil. Use a good automotive RTV on sealing surfaces (Ultra Gray or Black).
Let the silicone set up for a bit before cranking the screws down (lets the RTV make an O ring seal instead of squishing out).
....IF you're lucky.

[Terryl]

OK, here is what I found, the power to the pump comes in via a sealed port on the top on the housing, there are three pins, the cord is sealed via a rubber cork with three sockets, the cord is then sealed with a packing nut, the nut looks to have loosened up and let water into the connection, I cleaned it up (no corrosion) and then sealed it with some silicon plumbers grease, this will keep any water from getting in again, tested the pump and it works.

I just use an extension cord to run the pump, it goes inside the tank through the top vent port, a garden hose also comes out this port, I only plug it in when I need to water.

Thanks to all for the suggestions, I may go to a better setup if the budget allows it.