A well pump moves water from a well to your home, barn or garden. Shallow jet pumps, deep well jet pumps and submersible pumps each fit different well depths. This guide covers what to weigh before you buy.
These pumps suit owners replacing or adding to a private water system. We have not used these products ourselves. Our picks compare listing information and maker descriptions, so read each listing closely before you decide. Have a qualified installer confirm sizing and wiring for your well.
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What to Look For
| Factor | Why it matters | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Pump type | Depends on how deep the water sits | Match shallow, jet or submersible type to your well |
| Horsepower | Affects lift and flow | Compare horsepower and voltage in the listing |
| Flow rate | Needs to meet household demand | Read gallons per minute at stated depths |
| Well depth range | Pumps only work within a range | Check the depth limits the maker lists |
| Casing size | Submersibles must fit the well | Compare pump diameter and casing size |
| Materials | Stainless or cast parts last longer | Read the body and impeller materials |
| Controls | Some need separate boxes or tanks | See what is included and what is not |
Setup and Care Tips
- Hire a qualified installer for wiring and pipe work.
- Follow local codes and the maker’s instructions.
- Keep the pump area clean, dry and well vented.
- Check pressure and fittings on a regular basis.
- Record the model details for later service.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing by horsepower alone without checking depth range.
- Mixing up pump types.
- Forgetting pressure tank and control needs.
- Ignoring voltage and wiring requirements.
- Skipping the warranty details in the listing.
Shallow Jet, Deep Jet and Submersible Pumps Compared
The right pump type depends mainly on how far down the water sits. A shallow well jet pump sits above ground and pulls water up by suction, which works only when the water level is within a limited depth. A deep well jet pump uses an assembly that reaches into the well to help lift water from farther down. A submersible pump sits down in the well and pushes water up to the surface.
Each has trade-offs. Above-ground pumps are easier to reach for service, but they can be noisier and are limited by suction depth. Submersible pumps are often quieter and can handle deeper wells, but they are harder to reach if something goes wrong because you need to pull the pump and pipe from the well. The depth limits for each type vary, so check the maker’s stated range and have a well professional confirm what suits your well.
- Shallow jet: suits wells where the water level is not far below the pump.
- Deep well jet: uses a down-well assembly, with the motor above ground.
- Submersible: sits in the well, and is common for deeper installations.
Do not choose a type by price or habit alone. The wrong type may not lift water at all or may wear out early. Ask a qualified pump or well professional to measure the static water level and well depth.
Flow, Pressure and Sizing for Your Household
Sizing is about matching what the well can supply with what your home needs. Start with demand. Count the fixtures and appliances that may run at the same time, such as showers, a washing machine, a dishwasher, irrigation and livestock troughs. Peak use matters more than the daily total, because the pump has to cope with several demands at once.
Flow is usually shown as gallons per minute, and pressure as pounds per square inch. Pumps are described by curves or ranges that show how flow changes with lift and pressure, so check the maker’s information instead of one headline figure. A pump that delivers plenty of flow at low lift may deliver far less when it must lift water from deep down.
Your well also has limits. If the well recovers slowly, a pump that is too large can pump the well dry. A professional can test the well yield and advise on a pump size that suits it. Horsepower alone does not tell you how much water you will get, since the pump design and the depth also matter.
Think about future needs. If you plan to add a bathroom, irrigation or livestock, discuss it with your installer so the pump and tank can be sized sensibly.
Pressure Tanks, Switches and Controls
A pump does not work alone. Most private water systems include a pressure tank, a pressure switch and gauges, plus fittings and valves. The tank stores a small amount of water under pressure so the pump does not start every time you open a tap. The switch tells the pump when to start and stop based on pressure.
When you buy a pump, check what else you need. Does the listing include a tank or switch, or are these separate? Does the pump need a check valve, a pitless adapter, a pipe, wire or a control box? Some submersible pumps use a separate control box above ground, while others have the controls built in. Read the listing to see what is included.
Some homeowners consider constant-pressure systems, which use a variable speed controller to hold steady pressure. These can feel smoother at the tap but involve different equipment. Ask your installer whether this suits your home and whether it works with the pump you are considering.
An undersized or waterlogged tank can cause the pump to cycle on and off frequently, which wears it out. If you see rapid cycling, have a professional check the tank and pressure settings.
Power, Wiring and Professional Installation
Check the voltage and wiring requirements before buying. Many pumps run on 115 or 230 volts, and some are dual voltage and need to be set up correctly. Check the listing and manual for what the pump needs, and compare this with the supply you have. Wire size, breaker size and the distance from the panel all matter, so a qualified electrician or installer should confirm them.
Water and electricity need careful handling. Wiring that is not done properly can be dangerous and may breach local codes. Installation may also need permits or inspections in your area. Do not guess about this. Ask a licensed professional, and check local rules.
Plumbing connections matter too. The pipe size, fittings and materials should match the pump and the well. A poor fitting can leak, lose prime or reduce flow. Pipe in the well should be rated for the use, and the pump should be hung or set as the maker describes.
If you replace an existing pump, note the model details, pipe sizes and wiring before you remove anything. This helps you buy a pump that fits and helps the installer plan the job. Record the new model and installation date for later service.
Signs of Trouble and When to Replace
Pumps often give warning signs before they fail. Watch for changes such as low pressure, sputtering taps, noise, frequent cycling, cloudy water, or a pump that runs constantly. Any of these can point to a problem with the pump, the tank, the pipe or the well itself. Do not assume the pump is always at fault.
Some things you can check safely. Look at the pressure gauge and compare it with the normal range. Look for leaks around fittings and the tank. Make sure the power supply and breaker are on. Beyond that, ask a professional, because work on the well, wiring and pressurized parts can be hazardous.
Replacement may be worth considering when the pump is old, repairs are frequent, or it can no longer meet your demand. A failing motor, worn impellers or a corroded casing are common reasons. Weigh the repair against the cost and reliability of a new pump. Ask your installer for an opinion.
Regular checks help. Keep the pump area clean, dry and ventilated. Inspect fittings, the tank pressure and the control box on a regular basis. Keep the manual and warranty details together, and check the warranty terms before you buy, since coverage and conditions differ.
FAQ
How do I know which pump type I need?
It depends on well depth and water level. A well professional can measure and advise.
Can I install a pump myself?
Wiring and plumbing rules vary, so ask a qualified installer and check local codes.
How do I find out my well depth and water level?
Look at your well records or drilling report if you have them, or ask a well professional to measure. This information is important for choosing the pump type and size.
Is a bigger pump always better?
No. An oversized pump can draw down the well too fast or cycle poorly. Match the pump to the well yield and your household demand.
Do I need a pressure tank with every pump?
Most private systems use one to reduce cycling and keep pressure steady. Some setups differ, so ask your installer what your system needs.
Why does my pump keep turning on and off?
Short cycling can come from a waterlogged tank, a pressure switch problem, a leak or another fault. Have a professional diagnose it, since it can wear out the pump.
Can a well pump run a lawn sprinkler system?
Possibly, depending on flow, pressure and the well yield. Add up the demand of the sprinklers and other fixtures, and ask your installer to check the pump size.
Should I use 115 volt or 230 volt?
The choice depends on the pump model, the distance and your electrical supply. Check the listing and ask a licensed electrician to advise.
How long does a well pump last?
Lifespan varies with the pump type, water quality, usage and installation. Watch for warning signs and ask a professional to check the pump if you are unsure.
The Short Version
The right well pump matches your well depth, flow needs and power supply. Compare type, horsepower, flow and materials, read the warranty, and have a professional confirm the fit.
