The applications of the centrifugal water pump are numerous; however, these pumps are most often used in buildings for the following purposes:

To pump the general water supply. This includes both the overhead and pneumatic tank systems. In general water supply systems where the pump takes off directly from the city pressure main or where no suction lift is required, a centrifugal water pump can be used. When a centrifugal water pump is being used with a suction lift of no more than 15 feet is required, a pump with an automatic primer or a suction line equipped with a foot valve may be used.

To provide booster service. In booster service, a centrifugal water pump will in-take pressures from the city main operate only to boost this pressure. They may run continuously or automatically. When the automatic type is not operating, the water flows by city pressure through the impellers.

To pump the domestic water supply. In domestic water supply systems, the centrifugal water pump is used in shallow wells, in deep wells, and in a complete pneumatic system with electric motors or gasoline engines.

To support the fire protection systems. Fire pumps usually are the centrifugal type, either single or multistage. Electricity, steam, or gasoline may drive them. Whatever the power supply, it must be permanent and, if steam, must have a constant minimum pressure of 50 pounds of steam. Booster fire pumps have a low head to boost the pressure of the already available city supply

To provide a hot-water circulating service. Hot-water circulating pumps are centrifugal. They move water in a closed system and thus usually require only a low head, though the static pressure in the systems may be high. The pumps should be selected with attention to strength of casing, efficient stuffing box, freedom from air and vapor binding, and flexible mounting.

To provide sump drainage. Sump pumps are not classified as sewage pumps; however, they can be used as such. They may be vertical or horizontal centrifugal. The vertical type sump pump usually has the impeller submerged and the motor mounted above the pit.