How To Find the Right Weather-Resistant Pump Enclosure

No matter where you live in the United States, water pumps need protection from environmental conditions like heat, cold, rain and humidity. Without proper protection, pumps and pipes are vulnerable to corrosion, freeze damage and costly failures.

A weather-resistant pump enclosure helps extend the lifespan of your equipment, reduce maintenance issues and ensure reliable operation in all climates. Here's how to choose the right one.

Types of Weather-Resistant Pump Enclosures

There are four options for weather-resistant pump enclosures. Each differ on the material used, and each has pros and cons. Knowing the differences is vital to determine what type of enclosure you need.

1. Aluminum Pump Enclosures

Aluminum pump enclosures are the industry standard for long-term, all-weather protection. Built with durable, industrial-grade materials, these enclosures offer unmatched resistance to UV rays and corrosion. Their strength, modular design and versatility make them a reliable option for both small-scale and large infrastructure projects.

Pros:

• Exceptional durability and weather resistance
• Corrosion- and UV-resistant for longevity
• Ideal for insulation and climate control
• Works across a wide range of applications
• Fully compliant with ASSE 1060 standards

Considerations: Slightly higher upfront cost than plastic or fiberglass, but saves on long-term costs because once installed, it lasts and doesn't need to be replaced like other materials.

2. Fiberglass Enclosures

Fiberglass enclosures are often used for smaller devices due to their lighter weight. They’re easy to install and moderately corrosion resistant, making them appealing for low-budget projects. They work for devices up to four inches, which a single person can install by themselves. But their vulnerability to impact and exposure means long-term durability is limited, especially in harsher environments.

Pros:

• Lightweight and simple for one-person installation
• Low initial cost
• Some protection against corrosion

Considerations:

• Only used for pump devices up to four inches
• Easily damaged by tools, mowers or debris
• Less durable in extreme weather, brittles in sunlight and heat over time
• May require frequent repair or replacement
• Limited lifespan compared to aluminum

3. Plastic Enclosures

Plastic enclosures, typically made from polyethylene, are inexpensive but offer minimal protection. They’re commonly used for small pumps but fail under real-world conditions. Exposure to heat, sun and physical stress leads to warping, fading and premature failure which threatens the pump's life span. For any critical application, plastic is not a dependable choice.

Pros:

• Low cost
• Lightweight and easy to transport

Considerations:

• Warps in high heat
• Fades and cracks with sun exposure
• Short service life
• Inadequate protection for most environments

4. Metal Cages

Metal cages are still seen in the field but are functionally outdated. While they may deter casual tampering, they offer no protection from weather or freeze damage and often draw attention to the very equipment they’re meant to protect. For any application requiring performance, security or compliance, cages fall short.

Pros:

• Lower upfront cost

Considersations:

• No insulation or climate protection
• Not compliant with ASSE 1060Exposes equipment to corrosion, freeze and UV damage
• Often invites vandalism rather than preventing it

Factors To Consider When Buying a Pump Enclosure

When looking for a pump enclosure, consider these factors:

Superior Protection

Not all enclosures offer true protection. To safeguard your pump year-round, look for a design with insulated panels that won’t sag, separate or degrade over time. High-quality enclosures maintain thermal control — keeping equipment relatively cool in the summer and warm in the winter — while standing up to extreme temperatures. Features like exhaust fans and durable construction are key to maintaining performance and extending service life.

ASSE 1060 Certification

If it’s not ASSE 1060 certified, it’s not up to the job. This certification and its classes confirm the enclosure meets essential criteria for structural integrity, drainage, access, material quality and weather resistance. It’s the industry standard, and your assurance that the enclosure performs when it matters most.

Scratch and Corrosion Resistance

Outdoor equipment takes a beating. Choose an enclosure with a scratch- and corrosion-resistant finish to keep it looking new and performing reliably, even after years of exposure to the elements. A tough exterior is about more than appearance — it’s about longevity and protection.

Ease of Access

Serviceability matters. The right enclosure should make inspections and maintenance quick and straightforward. Be sure your pump cover allows for clear, safe access to the components inside, especially if you're housing critical equipment like a backflow preventer.

Quick and Easy Installation

Simple design pays off. Look for enclosures that can be assembled quickly on-site without special tools or complicated instructions. Whether you're installing or removing it, a modular enclosure saves time, reduces labor and keeps projects moving forward.

The Many Benefits of Using a Weather-Resistant Enclosure

1. Protect Pumps & Pipes From Rust and Corrosion

Rain, wind and snow can all cause rust and corrosion. If the device becomes corroded, it can potentially reduce the pump's life. Ensure the pump lasts longer by keeping equipment safe with an aluminum pump enclosure.

2. Custom Pump Enclosures Protect Motors From Heat & Cold

The most expensive parts of your pump are located in the device's motor. This part is the most vulnerable to heat and cold, affecting the device's longevity. Repairs are often very costly, and most issues can be prevented with a proper weatherproof pump enclosure. Aluminum is ideal, because pumps also put off a large amount of heat that can melt and warp a plastic enclosure.

3. A Custom Enclosure May Help Reduce Noise Pollution

Pumps can be very noisy and, in a residential setting, may cause complaints from residents and visitors. A weather-resistant enclosure, such as Safe-T-Cover's insulated aluminum enclosures, has sound-dampening insulation which aids in noise reduction. Fake plastic rocks, fiberglass enclosures and metal cages offer little to no sound insulation.

Common Questions and Answers for Choosing a Weather-Resistant Pump Enclosure

What Size of Weather-Resistant Pump Enclosure Should I Use?

The size of a weatherproof pump enclosure depends on the device inside. Check the size of your pump first, then the recommended clearance between the device and enclosure. Most spec sheets provide this information. Contact the pump manufacturer directly for these sheets.

Use our sizing guide to quickly find the best enclosure size for your pump project.

Which Class of Weather-Resistant Pump Enclosure Do I Need?

The answer to this depends on your location and the worst weather conditions. Find out your location's lowest average winter temperature and compare with the ASSE Class ratings mentioned below:

• Class 1 (Heated): Freeze Protection Enclosures – Maintains external temperature as low as 30℉ and an internal temperature of 40℉.
• Class 2 (Insulated Non-Heated): Freeze Retardant Enclosures – No guarantee of freeze protection, usually installed in locations where temperatures do not dip below 33℉ for long periods of time.
• Class 3 (Uninsulated Non-Heated): Non-Freeze Protection Enclosures – Provide security but no freeze protection.

What Codes and Specifications Do I Need To Follow?

You need to follow three code types: ASSE, NFP and ASPE.

• The ASSE 1060 Standard gives details on fluid conveying components.
• NFPA 13 addresses the permission to protect pipes from freezing through insulated coverings and other means.
• ASPE, the American Society of Plumbing Engineers, provides further guidelines on your enclosure's safety.

What Happens to My Pump If There's a Power Failure?

During power failure, the heater will stop working so the only thing protecting your pump from cold is the insulation within the enclosure. That's why it's imperative to choose a weatherproof pump enclosure with sufficient insulation. Safe-T-Cover uses standard 1.5” R-9 insulation in the wall panels and 3” R-18 insulation in the roof panel. This helps provide ultimate protection, even in the case of a power outage.