Pump Head Calculator
Calculate pump head step by step: H = Δz + h_f + (P_d − P_s) ÷ (ρg).
In short
Formula: H = Δz + h_f + (P_d − P_s) ÷ (ρg).
Total dynamic head
19 m
- Pressure head
- 0 m
- Feet
- 62.336 ft
What this calculator does
Calculate pump head step by step: H = Δz + h_f + (P_d − P_s) ÷ (ρg). Worked example, questions and limitations included.
Use it to turn Static lift (discharge − suction level), Friction head loss, Discharge pressure required (gauge), Suction pressure (gauge), and the other shown inputs into a checked result you can compare, copy, or rerun with different assumptions.
The page shows the formula, a numeric worked example, and the assumptions that affect this fluid calculation.
Inputs and what they mean
- Static lift (discharge − suction level)
- — number value.
- Friction head loss
- — number value.
- Discharge pressure required (gauge)
- — number value.
- Suction pressure (gauge)
- — number value.
- Fluid density
- — number value.
How to use it
- Enter each value in the unit shown next to the box (use the unit converter first if your numbers are in other units).
- Check the breakdown to see every intermediate step.
- Read the limitations before relying on the result.
Formula
Velocity head difference is assumed small and not included.
Friction head comes from the pressure drop calculator (head loss).
Gauge pressures in kPa.
H = Δz + h_f + (P_d − P_s) ÷ (ρg).
Inputs used: Static lift (discharge − suction level), Friction head loss, Discharge pressure required (gauge), Suction pressure (gauge), Fluid density.
Worked example
15 m lift plus 4 m friction
- Pressure head = 0.
- H = 15 + 4 + 0 = 19 m.
Reading the result
The headline figure is the main answer. Any breakdown underneath shows the parts that make it up, so you can check the working and see what changes when you adjust an input.
Limitations and assumptions
- Velocity head neglected.
- Steady flow.
- No NPSH check.
- Results are estimates for planning and learning. Real designs, installations and bids must be checked by a qualified, licensed professional against the codes that apply where you work.
- The result depends on the values you enter for this pump head calculator; it does not supply missing rates, rules, prices, dates, or assumptions for you.
Common questions
Why is head in metres, not pressure?
Head is independent of fluid density for a given pump, which is why pump curves use it. Check the formula, example, and limitations on this page before using the result for a real fluid decision.
Where do I get friction loss?
Use the pressure drop calculator and read the head loss line, including fittings. Check the formula, example, and limitations on this page before using the result for a real fluid decision.
Is NPSH included?
No. Net positive suction head must be checked separately to avoid cavitation.
How do I use the Pump Head Calculator?
Enter the required values for Static lift (discharge − suction level), Friction head loss, Discharge pressure required (gauge), Suction pressure (gauge), Fluid density. The calculator applies the formula on this page and shows the main result with any supporting breakdown so you can check the arithmetic.
What formula does the Pump Head Calculator use?
H = Δz + h_f + (P_d − P_s) ÷ (ρg). The visible formula section above lists the calculation path and the edge cases the page handles, so the result can be checked without relying on the form alone.
Can the Pump Head Calculator be used for exact decisions?
Use it as a calculation aid, not as a substitute for checking the underlying rule, contract, policy, or professional advice that applies to your situation. When a result depends on local rules, personal details, prices, or dates, enter those values yourself and confirm them before acting.
Related tools
Calculate pressure drop step by step: ΔP = (f × L ÷ D + ΣK) × ρv² ÷ 2 (Darcy–Weisbach).