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Grundfos
Packaged variable-speed boosters built on the stainless CME multistage pump β ten single-pump models and three twin systems, from a single-family home to an apartment building, hotel or small industrial plant.
Grundfos CMBE is a complete packaged pressure-boosting system, not a bare pump. Each unit pairs a stainless-steel CME horizontal multistage pump and premium-efficiency IE5 motor with an integrated variable frequency drive, and arrives with the five-way fitting, integrated non-return valve, diaphragm tank, outlet pressure sensor and pressure gauge already fitted. A pressure sensor watches demand and the drive varies motor speed to hold a constant pressure in the pipe system β connect the pipes, plug it in, set the pressure on the panel, and it runs.
The range covers ten single-pump models serving up to 60 GPM and 325 ft of head, plus three CMBE TWIN systems that put two pumps in parallel on a common base with cascade control and automatic alternation. Watermain Supply stocks the U.S. 60 Hz range in 115 V and 230 V with engineering-led sizing to your fixture count, elevation and inlet pressure. Compare the models below, or call 1-888.510.4036 and we will size it for you. Genuine Grundfos equipment, factory-new in original packaging β sold and supported by Watermain Supply, an independent industrial distributor.
Every CMBE is radio-enabled for the free Grundfos GO app: set functions, read status overviews, technical product information and live operating parameters from an iOS or Android device. Connection uses the Grundfos MI 301 radio module, which pairs the pump to your phone over Bluetooth β order it with the pump and commissioning takes minutes, not a laptop.
Grundfos GO is a free app from Grundfos Holding A/S. The MI 301 communication module is required for CMBE and is sold separately.
Two configurations of the same integrated-VFD system: one pump for domestic and light-commercial supply, or two in parallel with cascade control for larger buildings and standby duty.

Single-pump constant pressure
A CME multistage pump with integrated frequency converter, five-way valve, diaphragm tank, pressure sensor and gauge in one compact package. The integrated speed controller holds constant pressure as demand changes, with dry-running, overload and over-temperature protection built in. Stainless AISI 304 wetted hydraulics, IP55 pump enclosure, under 55 dB(A).

Two pumps, cascade control
Two complete CMBE pumps mounted in parallel on a common base plate with a manifold set of inlet and outlet pipes, ball valves and unions. Each pump keeps its own VFD, tank, sensor and check valve. Cascade control stages the second pump in as demand rises and pump alternation distributes runtime evenly, starting whichever pump has the fewest running hours.
The packaged system, the integrated drive and the constant-pressure control β straight from Grundfos.
Video published by Grundfos on its official YouTube channel. Content Β© Grundfos Holding A/S.
All ten U.S. 60 Hz models. Model numbers state nominal flow (mΒ³/h) and max head (m) β a CMBE 3-62 is a 3 mΒ³/h (13 GPM) nominal pump with 203 ft of head, and per the manufacturer curves and selection charts it serves up to about 26 GPM at reduced head. Power figures are maximum P1 input.
| Model | Max / Nominal Flow | Max Head | 115 V | 230 V | Max P1 | Product No. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CMBE 1-44 | ~15 GPM Β· 4.4 nom | 144 ft | Yes | Yes | 0.84 HP | 98810910 / 98548109 |
| CMBE 1-75 | ~15 GPM Β· 4.4 nom | 246 ft | Yes | Yes | 1.34 HP | 98810921 / 98548110 |
| CMBE 1-99 | ~15 GPM Β· 4.4 nom | 325 ft | β | Yes | 1.68 HP | 98548111 |
| CMBE 3-30 | ~26 GPM Β· 13 nom | 98 ft | Yes | Yes | 0.92 HP | 98810922 / 98548112 |
| CMBE 3-51 | ~26 GPM Β· 13 nom | 167 ft | Yes | β | 1.18 HP | 98810924 |
| CMBE 3-62 | ~26 GPM Β· 13 nom | 203 ft | β | Yes | 1.62 HP | 98548113 |
| CMBE 3-93 | ~26 GPM Β· 13 nom | 305 ft | β | Yes | 2.31 HP | 98548114 |
| CMBE 5-31 | ~35 GPM Β· 22 nom | 102 ft | β | Yes | 1.46 HP | 98548115 |
| CMBE 5-62 | ~35 GPM Β· 22 nom | 203 ft | β | Yes | 2.31 HP | 98548116 |
| CMBE 10-54 | ~60 GPM Β· 44 nom | 177 ft | β | Yes | 2.29 HP | 98548118 |
Connections are 1 in NPT except the 5-31 and 5-62 outlet (1-1/4 in NPT) and the 10-54 (1-1/2 in NPT both ports). Request the manufacturer pump curve for your duty point before specifying.
What the twin system adds over two independent pumps, and why it matters in a building.
The system adapts to consumption by switching pumps on or off and varying the speed of those running, so it holds constant pressure using only the number of pumps the demand actually requires.
Running hours are distributed evenly. The system starts whichever pump has accumulated the fewest running hours since power was last switched off, so neither unit wears out ahead of the other.
Two independent pumps, each with its own drive, tank, sensor and check valve, on a shared manifold. If one is down, the building still has water β the reason CMBE TWIN suits hospitals and hotels.
Both pumps run together when demand calls for more flow than one can deliver at the set pressure, roughly doubling available flow at a given head compared with a single CMBE.
How we size a CMBE, and the one limit that catches people out.
Required boost equals the pressure you want at the highest fixture, plus 0.433 psi for every foot of elevation from the pump to that fixture, plus friction loss in the piping, minus the pressure already available at the pump inlet. A three-story building wanting 45 psi at the top floor, 30 ft above the pump, with 30 psi at the main, needs roughly 45 + 13 + friction β 30 β 28 psi of boost plus pipe losses.
Size to simultaneous demand, not the sum of every fixture. A water-supply-fixture-unit method (IPC Table 604.3 / Hunterβs curve) converts fixture counts into a realistic peak GPM for residential work; the IAPMO Water Demand Calculator is more accurate for light commercial. The CMBE 1 family suits small homes, the 3 and 5 families cover most multi-bath and small-commercial work, and the 10-54 serves up to about 60 GPM.
CMBE is not self-priming. Maximum suction lift is 3.28 ft (1 m) including inlet-pipe pressure loss, so it wants a flooded or near-flooded suction from a main or a tank at or above pump level. If you are drawing up from a below-grade tank, cistern or shallow well, that is a job for the self-priming Grundfos SCALA line instead.
Grundfos publishes selection tables for residential work. Find your required boost in psi and your flow range, and read the recommended model β then confirm against the pump curve.
| Floors | 1-5 taps | 6-10 taps | 11-20 taps | 21-50 taps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | CMBE 1-75 | CMBE 1-75 | CMBE 3-62 | CMBE 3-93 |
| 3 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 1-75 | CMBE 3-62 | CMBE 3-62 |
| 2 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-62 | CMBE 3-62 |
| 1 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-30 | CMBE 3-62 |
| PSI boost | 0-15 gpm | 0-25 gpm | 0-30 gpm | 0-45 gpm | 0-55 gpm | 0-65 gpm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-30 | CMBE 5-31 | CMBE 10-54 | CMBE 10-54 | CMBE 10-54 |
| 25 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-30 | CMBE 5-31 | CMBE 10-54 | CMBE 10-54 | CMBE 10-54 |
| 30 | CMBE 1-75 | CMBE 5-31 | CMBE 5-31 | CMBE 10-54 | CMBE 10-54 | CMBE 10-54 |
| 35 | CMBE 1-75 | CMBE 3-62 | CMBE 5-31 | CMBE 10-54 | CMBE 10-54 | β |
| 40 | CMBE 1-75 | CMBE 3-62 | CMBE 5-62 | CMBE 10-54 | β | β |
| 45 | CMBE 1-75 | CMBE 3-62 | CMBE 5-62 | CMBE 10-54 | β | β |
| 50 | CMBE 1-99 | CMBE 3-62 | CMBE 5-62 | β | β | β |
| 55 | CMBE 1-99 | CMBE 3-93 | CMBE 5-62 | β | β | β |
| 60 | CMBE 1-99 | CMBE 3-93 | CMBE 5-62 | β | β | β |
| 65 | CMBE 1-99 | CMBE 5-62 | β | β | β | β |
| 70-80 | CMBE 3-93 | CMBE 5-62 | β | β | β | β |
| PSI boost | 0-10 gpm | 0-15 gpm | 0-20 gpm |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-30 |
| 25 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-30 | CMBE 3-30 |
| 30 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-30 | CMBE 3-51 |
| 35 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-51 | CMBE 3-51 * |
| 40 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-51 | β |
| 45 | CMBE 1-44 | CMBE 3-51 | β |
| 50 | CMBE 1-75 | CMBE 3-51 | β |
| 55-60 | CMBE 1-75 * | β | β |
* Indicated pump may be 5-10 percent undersized on flow at the desired pressure. Charts reproduced from Grundfos CMBE literature for reference; confirm the duty point on the manufacturer curve before ordering.
The engineering behind the package, and why it matters on an installation.
Five-way fitting with integrated non-return valve, diaphragm tank, outlet pressure sensor and pressure gauge are fitted at the factory. Nothing to source separately, nothing to plumb but suction and discharge.
The MGE motor with integrated frequency converter is a premium-efficiency IE5 design; Grundfos rates the drive at up to 40 percent energy savings against fixed-speed boosting.
Pump sleeve, shaft, impellers, chambers and nozzle in AISI 304 stainless with an AISI 316 sensor fitting β corrosion resistance that suits chlorinated, softened and raw water alike.
On loss of inlet pressure the pump stops and alarms, then attempts five restarts at 10-second intervals and eight at 5-minute intervals, repeating the cycle after 24 hours β it recovers on its own when water returns.
Ten models across four flow families mean the duty point can be matched closely instead of oversizing, from a small cottage supply to about 60 GPM.
Radio communication with the Grundfos GO app through the MI 301 module gives setup, status and operating parameters from a phone or tablet.
The panel sets pressure with up/down buttons and light fields across the sensor range, so a service tech can change the set point without a laptop or a proprietary tool.
Classified to NSF/ANSI 61 and NSF/ANSI 372 for potable water, and the 1 Γ 230 V CMBE models are UL listed as a packaged pumping system.
We stock every major booster line, so we can be straight about fit. The single most important distinction: CMBE is a flooded-suction system, while most of the compact residential boosters below are self-priming.
| Specification | CMBE | SCALA2 | SCALA1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control | Variable speed | Variable speed | Fixed speed |
| Flow range | up to ~60 GPM | up to 18 GPM | 13-22 GPM |
| Max head | up to 325 ft | 147 ft | 150-180 ft |
| Models | 10 | 1 | 2 |
| Self-priming | No (max 3.28 ft lift) | Yes, 26 ft | Yes, 26 ft |
| Max system pressure | 145 psi | 145 psi | 116 psi |
| Hydraulics | Stainless AISI 304 | Aluminum + composite | Composite |
| Noise | β€ 55 dB(A) | 44 dB(A) | < 55 dB(A) |
| Multi-pump | TWIN with cascade control | Parallel twin kit | Electronic twin |
| Typical use | Whole building, light commercial | Whole home comfort | Home, irrigation, transfer |
SCALA is the compact, self-priming, quieter choice for a single residence or a tank draw. CMBE is the larger, stainless, wider-ranging system for buildings β and the only Grundfos option here that reaches 60 GPM or 325 ft. If you need suction lift, choose SCALA.
| Specification | CMBE | DAB Esybox | DAB Esybox Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control | Variable speed | Variable speed | Variable speed |
| Max flow | up to ~60 GPM | 31.7 GPM | 76 GPM per unit |
| Max head | up to 325 ft | 213 ft | up to 316 ft |
| Self-priming | No | Yes, 26 ft | No (flooded via dock) |
| Max system pressure | 145 psi | 116 psi | 174 psi nominal |
| Hydraulics | Stainless AISI 304 | Composite/technopolymer | Stainless |
| Multi-pump | TWIN, cascade + alternation | Wireless to 4 units | 1-4 via Esydock |
| Phase | Single phase | Single phase | Single or three phase |
Esybox is the more compact, self-priming, plug-and-pump alternative and scales further with Esybox Max for commercial stations. CMBE counters with stainless hydraulics, a finer model ladder for close duty matching, and a higher system-pressure rating than the standard Esybox.
| Specification | CMBE | DuraMAC VS | DuraMAC Light Commercial |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control | Variable speed | Variable speed | Fixed speed |
| Flow | up to ~60 GPM | 6-35 GPM | 35 GPM |
| Boost / head | up to 325 ft | 25-65 psi | 40-78 psi |
| Max system pressure | 145 psi | 120 psi | β |
| Hydraulics | Stainless AISI 304 | SS 304/316 | Stainless components |
| Self-priming | No | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-pump | TWIN with cascade | Single | Single |
| Origin | Denmark / assembled Mexico & US | Made in USA | Made in USA |
DuraMAC is self-priming, domestically manufactured, and typically the lower-cost route to a residential VFD booster. CMBE goes higher on head and system pressure, offers ten models instead of two, and is the only one of the three with a factory twin system.
| Specification | CMBE | Goulds ResiBoost | Goulds Aquavar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control | Variable speed | Variable speed | Variable speed (e-AB3 / e-AB2) |
| Max flow | up to ~60 GPM | up to 35 GPM | up to 80 GPM (e-AB2) |
| Motor | IE5, up to 2.31 HP P1 | 0.75-2 HP | 0.5-5 HP |
| Pump | Stainless CME multistage | Stainless e-HM | e-HM / MCS |
| Self-priming | No | No | No |
| Packaged | Fully assembled | Pre-wired, tank separate | Kit / drive package |
| Multi-pump | TWIN with cascade | Single | Duplex / multi-master |
| Install rating | IP55 pump, indoor | Indoor | NEMA 1 / NEMA 3R |
The closest architectural match on this page β both are stainless multistage VFD boosters that want flooded suction. Aquavar scales higher in horsepower and offers outdoor-rated enclosures; CMBE arrives fully assembled with tank and sensor fitted and adds a factory twin system.
| Specification | CMBE | Davey DD Series | Davey EvoDrive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control | Variable speed | Variable speed | Variable speed (PM motor) |
| Max flow | up to ~60 GPM | 15-34 GPM | 28 GPM |
| Max pressure | up to 325 ft (~141 psi) | up to 91 psi set | up to 95 psi |
| Max casing / system | 145 psi | 116-145 psi | 145 psi |
| Self-priming | No | Limited | 13 ft lift |
| Hydraulics | Stainless AISI 304 | 304 stainless | 304 stainless |
| Multi-pump | TWIN, cascade + alternation | Daisy-chain 2 pumps | Duty/standby 2 pumps |
| Certifications | NSF 61/372, cULus | NSF 61 (WQA) | NSF-oriented |
Davey DD and EvoDrive are strong compact options with stainless hydraulics and simple two-pump modes. CMBE reaches substantially higher head, offers a wider model ladder, and its TWIN adds true cascade control and alternation rather than a simple pairing.
| Specification | CMBE | FE VersaBoost Pro | FE MH Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Packaged VFD booster | Packaged VFD booster | Multi-stage bare pump |
| Max flow | up to ~60 GPM | 18-25 GPM | 15-90 GPM |
| Max head | up to 325 ft | β | to 140 psi capability |
| Integrated tank / CV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Self-priming | No | No | No |
| Motor | IE5 with integrated VFD | Encapsulated 4 in submersible + VFD | Square-flange, 1 & 3-phase |
| Multi-pump | TWIN with cascade | Single | Build custom (SpecPAK) |
| Install rating | IP55, indoor | NEMA 3R indoor/outdoor | Indoor/outdoor motor |
VersaBoost Pro is the closest packaged competitor and adds an outdoor-rated NEMA 3R enclosure; CMBE offers far more models and higher head. MH Series is a bare pump for custom-built stations, and Franklinβs Inline SpecPAK sits above the CMBE class for duplex through quadplex commercial work.
CMBE single and twin systems in U.S. 60 Hz configurations, shipping across Texas and the Gulf Coast.
We size from fixture count, elevation, inlet pressure and pipe friction against the manufacturer curve β and tell you when a smaller model will do.
We also stock Grundfos SCALA, DAB, A.Y. McDonald DuraMAC, Goulds, Davey and Franklin Electric. If CMBE is not the right fit, we will say so and quote the one that is.
Guidance on CMBE TWIN for standby redundancy and staged flow in apartment buildings, hotels and light industrial plants.
Net-30 terms for qualified contractor, property-management and municipal accounts, handled in-house.
Genuine Grundfos service kits and spares with model cross-reference, so you get the right sensor, valve or tank the first time.
Common questions from plumbers, property managers and engineers specifying a CMBE booster.
No. CMBE is designed for flooded suction, with a maximum suction lift of 3.28 ft (1 m) including inlet-pipe pressure loss. Feed it from a pressurized main or from a tank at or above pump level. If you need to lift water from a below-grade tank, cistern or shallow well, the self-priming Grundfos SCALA line is the correct choice.
No. Every CMBE ships with a diaphragm tank, five-way fitting with integrated non-return valve, outlet pressure sensor and pressure gauge already fitted. Connect suction and discharge, plug it in, and set the pressure.
The first number is rated flow in cubic metres per hour and the second is maximum head in metres. A CMBE 3-62 is a 3 mΒ³/h (about 13 GPM) nominal pump with 62 m (203 ft) of head; per the manufacturer curves it serves up to about 26 GPM at reduced head. A CMBE 10-54 is 10 mΒ³/h (44 GPM) nominal, serving up to about 60 GPM.
Four models are offered in 1 Γ 115 V, 60 Hz: CMBE 1-44, 1-75, 3-30 and 3-51. Everything else in the range is 1 Γ 200-240 V. Single CMBE units ship with a 4.9 ft cable and a US plug.
CMBE TWIN is two complete CMBE pumps mounted in parallel on a common base plate with a manifold set. It adds cascade control, which stages the second pump in as demand rises, and automatic alternation, which starts whichever pump has the fewest running hours. Three TWIN systems are offered: 1-44 and 3-51 at 115 V, and 10-54 at 200-240 V.
No. CMBE TWIN is intended for fuse-box connection and ships with a 15 ft cable and no plug, so plan for an electrician. Single CMBE units are plug-and-play.
The set point must never exceed the pumpβs maximum head, which is on the nameplate; the panel will let you set a value the pump cannot deliver. The pump also cuts in at 7.25 psi below the set point, and the sum of inlet pressure and pump head must stay under the 145 psi maximum system pressure.
No. Single-phase CMBE requires no external motor protection. The variable-speed MGE motor incorporates thermal protection against slow overloading and blocking, plus dry-running protection that stops the pump, alarms, and retries automatically when water returns.
The pump carries an IP55 enclosure rating (sensor IP54) but Grundfos requires a protective cover for outdoor installation, large enough to shield the motor from direct sunlight, rain and snow. Ambient range is -4 to 131Β°F; provide freeze protection in cold climates.
Yes. CMBE is classified to NSF/ANSI 61 for drinking water system components and NSF/ANSI 372 for low lead content. The 1 Γ 230 V CMBE models are additionally UL listed as a packaged pumping system.
Send us your fixture count, number of floors, inlet pressure and required flow. We will respond with a sized CMBE or CMBE TWIN selection, accessories and lead time.