Water Pump Voltage - 230 vs 115 Single Phase

[Beltzington]

My gas generator will provide either 230@20-amps or 115@30-amps. Should I go with a 230 or 115 pump? Does it matter and why? Pump will be used with a large water tank mounted on a trailer for remote irrigation and burn control. TIA

 

[kennyd]

It will draw 1/2 the current at 220v, so you can use smaller gauge wire. It will most likely start easier at 220v as well.

 

[Larry Caldwell]

Your generator will also only use half the windings at 115 v. and the coil will heat worse. If you have the option, always wire motors to run on 220-240v. They start faster, run cooler and last longer. A generator will be more efficient feeding a 240 v. balanced load, and will provide nearly twice the power.