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.
There are four options for 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.
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:
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.
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:
Considerations:
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:
Considerations:
Metal cages are still seen in the field but are functionally outdated.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:
Considersations:
When looking for a pump enclosure, consider these factors:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
You need to follow three code types: ASSE, NFP and ASPE.
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.