Bell & Gossett Series e90 Be9026S Bronze Pump | 1/2 HP, Potable Water
The Bell & Gossett 179335LF Series e90 Be9026S is a modern, high-efficiency booster pump engineered explicitly for commercial potable water applications. As part of the advanced “e-Series,” this pump features a fully lead-free bronze construction that is NSF 61 certified for safe handling of drinking water, making it ideal for pressure boosting in restrooms, kitchens, and domestic water lines in offices, schools, and healthcare facilities. Its defining feature is the integrated Electronically Commutated Motor (ECM), which delivers exceptional energy savings—up to 80% compared to standard fixed-speed pumps—by automatically adjusting speed to match exact system demand. The compact, close-coupled design with 1.25″ connections simplifies installation in tight mechanical spaces. Combining material safety with smart technology, the e90 Be9026S represents the next generation of commercial plumbing pumps, offering quiet, reliable, and sustainable performance for engineers and facility managers focused on water safety and operating costs. For system integration, see our guide [Optimizing Commercial Domestic Water Pressure with ECM Pumps].
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Model | Series e90, Be9026S |
| Part Number | 179335LF |
| Pump Type | Close-Coupled, In-Line Booster Pump |
| Construction | All-Bronze, Lead-Free |
| Motor HP | 1/2 Horsepower |
| Motor Technology | Electronically Commutated Motor (ECM) |
| Voltage | 120V or 230V (Specify at ordering) |
| Connection Size & Type | 1-1/4″ FNPT (Female National Pipe Thread) |
| Shaft Seal | Mechanical Seal, Potable-Water Compatible |
| Bearing Lubrication | Permanently Lubricated |
| Control | Built-in Speed Control via External 0-10V Signal or Dip Switches |
| Max Operating Pressure | 150 PSI |
| Max Fluid Temperature | 230°F (110°C) |
| Compliance | NSF/ANSI 61 & 372 (Lead-Free) |
| Efficiency | Up to 80% Energy Savings vs. Fixed-Speed |
Key Features & Benefits
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NSF 61 Certified All-Bronze Construction: The entire wetted surface is lead-free bronze, ensuring compliance with the most stringent potable water codes and providing superior corrosion resistance for long system life.
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High-Efficiency ECM Motor: The brushless ECM technology provides variable speed operation, allowing the pump to precisely match flow and pressure requirements. This eliminates the energy waste of a fixed-speed pump running at full capacity and significantly reduces electricity consumption.
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Quiet, Demand-Based Operation: The pump runs only as fast as needed, often at low speeds, which drastically reduces noise and vibration—a critical benefit for installations near occupied spaces.
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Integrated Control Flexibility: Speed can be controlled via easy-access dip switches for fixed-speed settings or via an external 0-10V DC signal from a building automation system (BAS), pressure transducer, or flow meter for fully automated, demand-based performance.
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Compact & Serviceable Design: The close-coupled format saves space, and the three-piece construction (motor, seal plate, volute) allows for straightforward seal replacement without disassembling the entire pump from the piping.
Comparison: Series e90 ECM vs. Traditional Bronze Pump
| Feature | Bell & Gossett e90 Be9026S (ECM) | Traditional Bronze Booster Pump (Fixed-Speed) |
|---|---|---|
| Motor & Efficiency | ECM, Variable Speed (Up to 80% Savings) | Standard Induction, Fixed-Speed |
| Energy Consumption | Very Low (Adjusts to load) | High (Constant draw) |
| Noise Level | Quieter (Lower average RPM) | Louder (Constant high RPM) |
| Control | Advanced (0-10V input, dip switches) | Basic (On/Off only) |
| Initial Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Lifecycle Cost | Lower (Savings offset premium) | Higher |
| Ideal For | Modern, efficiency-focused projects, BAS integration | Budget-first projects, simple on/off systems |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How does the ECM technology actually save energy in a domestic water system?
In a building, water demand is highly variable. A traditional pump runs at full speed constantly, using full power even when only one fixture is on. The ECM pump senses reduced demand (via pressure or built-in logic) and instantly slows its motor speed, consuming dramatically less electricity while still maintaining required pressure. This “right-sizing” of power in real-time yields the significant savings.
Q2: Is this pump a direct replacement for an old Series 60 or similar bronze pump?
It can be a hydraulic and mechanical replacement, but not always a direct control-for-control swap. The pipe connections (1.25″) may match, but the ECM pump requires proper control wiring to realize its benefits. If replacing a pump controlled by a simple pressure switch, you can run the e90 in a fixed-speed mode via its dip switches. To use its variable speed, you’ll need a compatible control signal.
Q3: Can I control this pump with a standard pressure switch?
Yes, but you will not utilize its variable speed capability. You can wire a standard pressure switch to turn the pump on and off based on system pressure, treating it like a fixed-speed pump. For variable speed operation, you need a pressure transducer and a compatible controller that sends a 0-10V signal to the pump.
Q4: What is the difference between the “e90” series and the standard Series 60?
The Series 60 is a reliable, fixed-speed, bronze pump with a permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor. The Series e90 is its high-efficiency successor, featuring an ECM motor for variable speed control, higher overall efficiency, and often more compact design. The e90 is designed to meet modern energy codes and sustainability goals.
Q5: Does the pump come with a built-in controller or pressure sensor?
No. The pump has the capability to receive a control signal, but the controller, transducer, or sensor must be purchased separately. The pump terminals include connections for power (line voltage) and for the low-voltage 0-10V speed control input.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Substantial Energy Savings with ECM technology | Higher Initial Cost than fixed-speed bronze pumps |
| NSF 61 Certified All-Bronze Construction | Requires Understanding of Control Wiring for full benefits |
| Quiet, Variable-Speed Operation | External Controls Needed for automated variable speed |
| Compact, Space-Saving Design | Not suitable for high-temperature hydronic (e.g., boiler) loops |
| Long-Term Reliability & Low Maintenance | May be over-specified for very simple, intermittent-use applications |
| Future-Proof for Energy Codes & Green Building |
Conclusion & Ideal Use Cases
The Bell & Gossett e90 Be9026S is a smart investment for forward-thinking commercial projects where water safety, energy efficiency, and low lifecycle costs are paramount.
This pump is ideally specified for:
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Commercial Domestic Water Pressure Boosting in offices, hotels, and multi-tenant buildings.
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LEED-Certified or Green Building Projects where high-efficiency equipment is required.
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Retrofits replacing old, inefficient booster pumps to cut operational expenses.
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Systems with a Building Automation System (BAS) for integrated, demand-based control.
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Applications where noise reduction is a priority (e.g., near offices, patient rooms).
For simple, low-budget replacements where variable speed is not needed, a fixed-speed Series 60 pump may suffice. However, for any new construction or major renovation where the pump will see daily use, the e90’s energy savings and advanced performance offer a compelling return on investment and align with modern mechanical design standards. Confirm electrical supply (120V or 230V) and plan the control strategy before purchase.
