Should water flow reduces when flowing through not on pump

[ianrussjones]

Hi, my washing machine is intermittently stopping due to lack of water pressure. It runs off a water tank that flows through a shower pump but does not turn it on (shamefully can't remember if the washing machine ever did turn it on). The water pressure from this source is 5 litres a minute. Flow from the storage tank (not running through pump) is 7.25 litres a pump. Is that normal for the pump to reduce flow? Apologies if that is a very obvious question. I'm new to this.

 

[Nozzle]

A pump, when not spinning is basically a restriction in the pipe work. An impeller in a volute with tight clearances. It all adds friction to the flow of water.

Nozzle

 

[ianrussjones]

Thanks Nozzle. I think that means I have 4 options. 1) Redirect flow so routes round the pump. 2) Use mains flow (means holes in ceilings etc...) 3) new pump so washing machine switches it on when it pulls water 4) new washing machine.
I'm thinking 2) is best as the user guide says for efficient use flow should be at least 8 litres per minute.
Any thoughts appreciated...

 

[longdogs]

Off the mains would be best.

 

[ianrussjones]

Thanks all. Appreciated. The mains it is.