Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take cows to learn to use the AQUAMAT nose pumps?

A: It took our cows about 5 minutes! While we were installing the second pump on a pump platform, one cow was already pushing the lever on the first pump that we had just installed.

Q: How much do the AQUAMAT pumps cost?

A: Pumps list at $342.95 for the AQUAMAT II, and $ 387.95 for the NC model, plus fittings and hose. There are a number of variables which determine pump price, such as currency exchange rates and shipping costs. As we realize savings, we pass them on to you!  Agencies please call for quantity discount information. See Cost Effective for pump budgeting considerations, or call 1-888-NOSEPUMP for a complete price list and pump information.

Q: I am writing a proposal for a riparian restoration project that will require AQUAMAT nose pumps. How can I be sure of my pump costs for an accurate budgeting amount?

A: We offer a FREE Proforma Invoice service by e-mail or fax. Call us with the details of your proposal, and we will be happy to advise you on types of fittings, pasture rotation, pumps needed, etc. A Proforma Invoice will provide you with exact costs. Or, if you are considering several alternative proposals, we would be happy tosend you a Proforma Invoice for each to assist with your planning.

Q: What is the estimated life of the rubber pump diaphragm?

A: The factory estimate is two to five years, depending upon how many cattle use the pumps. We have used our pumps now since 1994,  spring through fall pasture seasons,   the pumps are still  going strong, however the pumping lever does not return to its original start position indicating some stretching in the diaphragm.

Q: Are nose pumps frost proof?

A: NO. Nose pumps are designed to provide water for spring through fall pasture situations. They will not replace the insulated stock tanks, etc. Nose pumps can be damaged if an animal attempts to get water from a frozen pump

Discussion: We tested an AQUAMAT nose pump by leaving it outside full of water during an early March freeze (about 28 degrees F) away from the cattle. In this situation, the AQUAMAT's polyethylene drinking bowl and base saved the pump from freeze damage. The ice crystals squeezed out between the poly base, the edge of the rubber diaphragm, and the cast iron diaphragm housing. When the pump thawed, it was unharmed and pumped perfectly.

NOTE: Do not allow cattle to push on the lever of a frozen, undrained pump full of ice. If a cow were to push on the pump lever on a frozen pump, she would force ice through the rubber diaphragm and destroy it. However, we do stock replacement diaphragms.

Q: Are replacement parts available?

A: Yes, we stock a full line of AQUAMAT replacement parts.

Q: Can the pumps be left out over the winter?

A: Yes, but we do not recommend it. We recommend that through the winter, the pump and hose be brought in under cover, drained of water, and stored out of reach of children. See Warning Notice in owner's manual and on pump label. As with all farm equipment, children should not be allowed to play with or handle nose pumps. Winter is also an ideal time to clean the pump up as needed, and check the hose and foot valve for any accumulated debris.

Discussion:

To drain the pump, disconnect it from the hose and work the lever several times until no more water comes.

To drain the hose, either pull the foot valve out from the water source and work the pump until the hose is cleared, or unscrew the foot valve screen, and press in on the spring loaded valve.

If the pumps need to be left out during freezing weather, pull hoses from the water source and drain the pump and hose.

NOTE: Winter flooding of streams and rivers will often carry away hoses and sometimes even pumps!

Q: After I install a pump on a platform and connect the hose and foot valve, how do I get the pump started?

A: The AQUAMAT is self priming. Just submerse the foot valve in your water source so that it is weighed down, but above the bottom silt - we have tied our foot valves to the top of a concrete block with baling twine, and because this foot valve is spring loaded, it can be placed in the water source at any angle. Work the pump lever until water is brought up into the drinking bowl. You need to leave the pumps with several strokes of water in the drinking bowl to act as "bait" to attract thirsty animals. After the first animal finishes drinking, the last back stroke of the pump lever brings more "bait" water into the bowl to attract the next animal. Thus, there is always some "bait" water left in the drinking bowl.

Q: How long does it take pigs to learn to use the AQUAMAT?

A: Two seconds!

Discussion: We tested the AQUAMAT pump on the "petting zoo" that one of our local well-known Angus breeders had behind his house for his children. This "zoo" had all sizes of pigs, goats, and sheep. We installed one pump on a triangular platform which was laid directly on the ground. The animals had this as their only source of water for one month.

When the first water was brought into the drinking bowl, the nearest pig dove into the pump lever, happily slurping water and sending it everywhere. The pigs proved to be too enthusiastic and dominating with the pump, and were finally evicted from the zoo to give the goats and sheep a chance to drink.

Q: Can the AQUAMAT be used by sheep and goats?

A: NO.

Discussion: In the petting zoo above with the normally configured AQUAMAT (after the pigs were evicted), the larger goats were observed to push the pump lever with the side of their head as they followed the water down to the back of the drinking bowl. The AQUAMAT was left as the animals' only source of water for a month. The little goats climbed on and around the pump and were small enough to get a drink by reaching under the pump lever. However, the report from the zoo owners was that "the sheep did not die, but we never saw them actually drink." We theorize that the sheep probably managed to either drink or lick water from the side of the bowl, after the large goats had pushed the pump lever.

NOTE: The manufacturer does not recommend the AQUAMAT for sheep or goats, in its normal factory configuration. In their words, "the sheep's nose is too sensitive to push the lever."