How does excessive backpressure affect a pump?

Excessive backpressure affects a pump primarily by increasing energy consumption. When a pump operates against high backpressure, it needs to work harder to move the fluid through the system, which results in higher energy usage. This is because the pump must exert more force to overcome the resistance created by the backpressure. As a consequence, this can lead to inefficient operation and increased operational costs.

In practical terms, if a pump is designed for certain conditions, encountering unexpected high backpressure can result in it operating outside of its optimal range. This not only consumes more energy but can also lead to wear and tear on the pump components, potentially shortening its operational lifespan.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of excessive backpressure. Prolonging the life of the pump is generally associated with optimal operating conditions, whereas excessive backpressure tends to stress components rather than enhance overall efficiency. Additionally, it does not allow for higher flow rates since high backpressure typically restricts fluid movement. Therefore, the primary outcome of excessive backpressure is indeed the increase in energy consumption.