Top 10 Best Shallow Well Jet Pumps (2020)

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They say water is life and indeed it is. A world without water is unfathomable and hence the sentimental importance attached to well pumps. These inventions of man completely changed the way we live for the better. Those that reside in whichever location can now get uninterrupted supply of water by simply opening their tap. The best shallow well jet pumps makes it possible for every household, industrial plant, or commercial enterprise to get a reliable supply of water all through the year. This type of pump is ideally designed to pump water from a shallow well, meaning wells that are 25 feet or less deep. Any depth beyond this means that you have to procure a pump designed for drawing water from a deep well.

As a general rule, use the pump as specified by the manufacturer. There are cases where buyers complain that a pump does not function as they expected. Blame is then shifted to the manufacturer despite the fact that the root cause lies in the buyer. A failure to check product specifications means unmet expectations. Therefore, use the pump according to the guide.

Technical Components of a Shallow Well Jet Pump

As initially stated, the shallow well jet pump is a pump that works well on wells or reservoirs that have a total pumping depth of 25 feet or less. These pumps are made up of three components: an electric motor, a jet assembly, and an impeller. The jet assembly is included in these pumps so that the pressure and suction power is greatly enhanced. It is the combination of these 3 features that make the shallow well jet pump one of the best for farm water pressure systems.

One would wonder why they should even consider a shallow well jet pump and not another type of pump. Well, this type of pump offers a huge advantage over other pumps. First off, the pump can be adapted to wells that give different yields. It is also possible to offset the pump from the well. You also find that they are much cheaper and require little or no maintenance. Finally, those with wells of small diameter will find these pumps to be the best for drawing their water. Nonetheless, they will not be effective as the total lift increases. Any depth that exceeds 18 feet or 5.5 m renders the shallow well jet pump impractical.

With that said, let’s discuss our picks for the best shallow well jet pumps.

Best Shallow Well Jet Pumps

10. STA-Rite SND-L Shallow Well Jet Pump

This is another shallow well jet pump that is worth considering. One of the things that should be evaluated before making a purchase is the water needs of your household. This is important since the pump capacity differs among models and brands. It would be wise also to consider your future plans. If you intend to expand your water needs in the future then it would be wise to choose a bigger unit instead of buying a small one that will demand replacement later on.

The STA-Rite SND-L Jet Pump seems to have won the hearts of many given its strong points. The pump is designed for shallow wells and boasts a capacity that will meet most water needs. The ¾ HP pump is made of close-grained cast iron and comes with a precision molded diffuser. It also has superior insulation material that eliminates the build-up of excess moisture and keeps of contaminants. This will ensure the motor lasts longer.

Features

• Boasts a solid construction. The close-grained cast iron body makes it one of the strongest and durable well pumps. It also comes with drain port that makes winterizing easy.
• It weighs 47 pounds.
• The ½ HP model offers a high flow rate at less horsepower and pressure.
• The pump has superior insulation required to keep excessive moisture and other unwanted materials away from the engine. This guarantees a prolonged service life to the engine.
• Operates at 115V / 230v 1-phase and at 60 Hz.
• Offers the required pressure and level of performance for wells that are 25 feet deep or less.
• The pump primes faster and comes with multi-port diffuser made of polypropylene material. It can also handle more air.
• It comes with shielded and one-time lubricated ball bearings that are heavy duty.
• The pump is pre-tested to guarantee long life and smooth quiet operation.
• The pump is available in ½, ¾, 1 and 1-1/2 HP capacity.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Heavy duty cast iron construction for a longer life.
• Comes with a drain port that makes winterizing easy.
• Longer life and powerful motor.
• Faster priming and it can handle more air.
• The ball bearings are permanently lubricated and are durable.
• Quiet in operation.
• Pre-tested to ensure quality service delivery.
• Zero maintenance required.
• Great price.
• Easy installation.

Cons

• No negative feature noted.

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9. WAYNE SWS50 Shallow Well Jet Pump

This is a great model from WAYNE that has stood out from the pack. It is ideally a shallow well jet pump that meets the water needs of those with shallow wells. It is US assembled and is made up of parts that are acquired within and outside the US. The pump is capable of pumping 420 gallons of water per hour at 50 PSI. Its suction is 1-1/4 inches whereas the NPT discharge is ¾ inches. Available also is a pressure switch that is pore-set at 30-50 PSI for automatic operation. It is also important to note that this pump is self-priming unlike other models. It comes with separate priming port that allows for volute filling.

Features

• A ½ HP shallow well jet pump that is assembled in the US. It has both foreign and domestic components.
• It is capable of self priming and it comes with a dedicated priming port.
• The pump has a dual voltage motor, 120V/240V preset at factory level for 240 V.
• The NPT suction and discharge are 1-1/4 and ¾ inches respectively.
• This well is specifically designed for wells that are 25 feet deep and below.
• Made of durable cast iron material.
• The jet pumps are housed in a rugged cast iron case that is strong and durable.
• It pumping capability is 385 gallons of water per hour at 5 feet and maximum of 384 Gallons per hour at depths of 25 feet.
• Comes with a quick change voltage selection that allows the pump to be operated at 115 or 230 volts.
• The pressures switch is set at 30 PSI and 50 PSI.
• The motor is well secured from overheating.
• The pump is also covered by a 3 year warranty.
• Product dimensions are 22 x 12 x 11 inches and it weighs 37.5 pounds.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent pumping capability.
• Self priming pump.
• Thermal protected motor for a longer service life.
• 3 year warranty provided by the manufacturer.
• Dual voltage motor for maximum efficiency.
• Durable.
• High pressure delivery.
• Reliable.
• Preset pressure switch available for automatic operation.

Cons

• Pressure switch poses some challenges when adjusting. Clear instructions have not been availed on this.

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8. Goplus 1200W Shallow Well Jet Pump

Durability, best quality, and top power is what defines this shallow well jet pump from Goplus. What immediately intrigues one when you check out the product specifications highlighted by the manufacturer is the flow rate and depth magnitude. This pump is capable of drawing water from depth of 150 feet maximum and offers a flow rate 1000 Gallons per hour. This makes it ideal for most water needs whether irrigation, watering livestock, lawn, garden, industrial plants, cabins, and many others.

Safety is the chief concern of anyone considering a well pump. This pump from Goplus has been tested and it meets the required safety standards. A 100% risk-free satisfaction is also offered by the manufacturer to eliminate any doubts.

Features

• Pre-tested and approved to be 100% safe for pumping drinking water. It meets all the set safety standards.
• The pump casing and tank are constructed using rugged cast iron material which is not only strong but durable.
• With its pumping capability of 1000 gallons per hour and 150 foot head lift, this pump can meet the water needs of most operations. One of the best for transferring water from wells or reservoirs to large storey buildings.
• Comes with a 100% guaranteed warranty. A risk free satisfaction guarantee. If you find it not up to standard, you can return it to the manufacturer and no questions are asked.
• Ideal for draining, boosting water pressure to households and garden.
• Power: 120V and Watt: 1200W.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Sturdy and longer lasting.
• Powerful motor.
• Offers top level flow rate ideal for large buildings.
• Reliable.
• Excellent suction power.
• Safe for pumping drinking water.
• Excellent build quality.
• Quiet when in operation.
• Easy to setup and connect.
• Highly versatile. Meets the needs of various applications.
• Affordable.

Cons

• You need to install a check valve on suction area.

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7. Red Lion PWJET50 Shallow Well Jet Pump

The Red Lion PWJET50 shallow well jet pump is made to stand up to wells of 25 feet or less. It is a solidly built pump that exceeds expectations. Its exterior and interior components are made of quality material. Its casing is made of strong and durable cast iron material. The 115/230V motor itself comes with a capacitor and is made of rust and corrosion resistant cast iron material. All these ensure the motor offers many years of service. You can use this pump in a number of applications; supply water to rural homes, farms, cabins, industrial plants, and many others.

The outstanding pressure and flow rate of 50 PSI and 7 GPM respectively makes the pump one of the best in the market. The pump also has an auto-shut off feature, voltage regulator, and a power linkage to existing power sources. It offers all you can ask of a shallow well jet pump.

Features

• Ideal for a number of applications: cabins, rural homes, farms, ranches, industrial plants and many others.
• Designed for use in wells of 25 feet or less.
• Comes with a heavy duty 115/230 voltage motor that has a capacitor. The motor casing is made of cast iron so that it lasts longer and guarantees reliable service.
• Boasts 50 PSI and flow rate of 7 GPM. Comes with an auto shut off feature, voltage selector to be connected to power sources that already exist.
• The available pressure switch is pre-set at 30/50.
• Comes with a glass-filled impeller and diffuser made of thermoplastic to give excellent performance and reliable water flow.
• It has a guaranteed warranty of 1 year.
• Pump dimensions are 8.5 x 13.9 x 8.4 inches and weighs 21 pounds.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Top performance and efficient water flow thanks to the thermoplastic impeller and diffuser.
• Backed by a year warranty.
• Durable motor with a strong and sturdy iron cast casing.
• The motor casing is rust and corrosion resistant.
• Overall the pump is highly durable.
• Easy to connect to existing power sources.
• Best suited for shallow wells.
• Quality for the money.
• Smooth and quiet in operation.
• Excellent pumping rate and power capability.

Cons

• It may be a bit of a challenge to set up the pressure. Insufficient instructions have been made available.

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6. Red Lion RJS-75-PREM 602207 Shallow Well Jet Pump

The Red Lion RJS-75-PREM 602207 shallow well jet pump is a kit that has appealed to many buyers. It is considered one of the best when it comes to its water pumping capability and efficiency. This is a pump that will meet the needs of households, farms, ranches, cottages, or cabins. The motor that powers the entire system boasts a ¾ HP, 115/230 Voltage power that delivers the desired flow rate per minute, precisely, 16 GPM. The motor has an inbuilt capacitor and its casing is made of cast iron which is resistant to rust and corrosion. Other features that are worth mentioning are: 50 PSI, a voltage selector, thermoplastic impeller and diffuser, as well as a pre-set pressure switch.

Features

• Capable of handling the needs of households, cottages, farms, irrigation, garden, and many others.
• Has a ¾ HP, 115/230 Volts motor with capability of delivering 16 GPM flow rate.
• Comes with a pressure switch that is pre-set at factory level at 30/50.
• The pump is designed for shallow wells, that is, 25 feet or less.
• Motor has a cast iron casing and a capacitor. These guarantee a longer life of service.
• The impeller and diffuser are glass filled to give high performance and efficiency.
• Pump is backed by a 1 year warranty.
• Product dimension is 9.1 x 17.8 x 9.1 inches and weighs 39-6 pounds.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• The motor is powerful enough to meet the water needs of households, farms, cabins, and many other users.
• Durable motor.
• Longer lasting pump thanks to the heavy duty construction of cast iron.
• Easy to setup and use.
• Quality product.
• Reliable.
• Quiet when in operation.
• Exceeds expectations.
• Excellent output.

Cons

• No negative feature noted.

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5. WAYNE SWS100 Shallow Well Jet Pump

The WAYNE SWS100 Shallow Well Jet Pump stands out when you check out its capacity, capability, and efficiency. The pricing is also competitive and definitely worth every penny. It is ideally designed for those wells or water sources that lie within depths of 25 feet or less. Anything above that proves to be a challenge for the pump. The maximum flow rate deliver by this pump at 50 psi is 630 Gallons of water per hour which is sufficient to meet the needs of most operations. You can use it to supply water required for household use, watering gardens, sewage pumps, lawn and pools, gardens, battery backup systems, and many others.

Features

• Maximum flow rate is 630 GPH at 50 psi.
• The suction NPT is 1-1/4 inches and NPT discharge ¾ inches.
• Designed for wells of 25 feet or less.
• It is made of durable cast iron material.
• Comes with a pressure switch preset at 30-50 psi.
• It has a dedicated priming port for volute filling.
• Motor is dual voltage and is factory set at 120 volts.
• Pump dimensions are 17.5 x 10 x 7.5 inches and weighs 43.6 pounds.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent suction and discharge capability.
• Offers the best flow rate of up to 630 GPH.
• It is self-priming.
• Durable pump.
• Has a dual voltage for maximum efficiency.
• It is well constructed.
• Easy to install.
• Quiet operation.
• Smaller and lighter.
• Comes with overload protection switch.

Cons

• The switch has a weak knob.

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4. Flotec FP4012 Shallow Well Jet Pump

Flotec is one of the brands that have built a great reputation in the world of well pumps. It is well known for its wide selection of excellent quality well pumps. One of the latest models in the niche of shallow well pumps is the Flotec FP4012. This does an excellent job when it comes to drawing water from wells of 25 feet or less.

The built-in pressure switch is impressive and the automatic operation mind-blowing. The pump begins the pumping once the pump housing is filled. Since this is a self-priming it offers maximum convenience. The housing is also made of reinforced thermoplastic which is resistant to corrosion and abrasion.

Features

• Designed for wells of 25 feet and less.
• Powered by a ½ HP heavy duty dual motor that delivers high level performance of 10 GPM at 40 PSI.
• The electrical components are protected by a dust-proof cover.
• The pump housing is made of thermoplastic material which is not only corrosion-resistant but also resistant to sand.
• It comes with heavy duty ball bearings, insulated motor windings, stainless steel shaft, mechanical shaft, and balanced rotor.
• The pump is self-priming and it begins to prime once the pump housing is filled at first.
• Maximum pump capacity is 8 GPM.
• The pump has dimensions of 6 x 7 x 11 inches and weighs 26 pounds.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• It is self-priming.
• Offers top level performance.
• Pump construction of reinforced thermoplastic is resistant to abrasion and corrosion.
• The electrical components are well secured from dust and insects.
• No rusting as the case may be with cast iron pumps.
• Runs quiet.
• Affordable.
• It does not lose its prime.
• Efficient when in operation.
• Exceeds expectations.
• You can use it for pool refilling, gardening, lawn sprinkler, car washing, and many others.
• Easy to assemble and disassemble.

Cons

• Check valve is not included.

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3. WAYNE CWS75 Convertible Jet Pump

As its name suggests, this is a convertible well jet pump and that only means it offers maximum efficiency and convenience. It offers the best service for wells that range from 0 to 90 feet. This means it will not only serve those with shallow wells but it also caters for those with deep wells. This is certainly quality for money. Interestingly, this pump comes with a dedicated priming port that allows for volute filling. You get a pre-set 30-50 PSI pressure switch in addition to a 120/240V dual voltage motor that is preset at 240V upon delivery.

Features

• This is a ½ HP and ¾ HP convertible jet well pump. It is made of cast iron material.
• The NPT suction is 1 inches and NPT discharge is ¾ inches.
• Made of durable cast iron material.
• Comes with a dual voltage motor of 120/240V that has been factory pre-set at 240 volts.
• Delivers a maximum flow rate of 462 GPH at 0 feet for 50 PSI.
• Comes with a dedicated priming port that allows for volute filling. This is made of cast iron material.
• The unit jet assembly is bought separately.
• Can pump up to 510 Gallons per hour.
• It has a pressure switch preset at 30-50 PSI which operates automatically.
• The pump is assembled in the US.
• Pump dimensions are 14 x 9 x 8.8 inches and it weighs 38.4 pounds.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Comes with a dual voltage motor.
• Efficient.
• Works well in wells that range from 0 to 90 feet.
• It has a dedicated priming port.
• Dual voltage guarantees maximum efficiency.
• The flow rate is ideal to meet the water needs of most households, farms, cottages, and ranches.
• It has excellent suction power.
• Easy installation.
• Quiet in operation.

Cons

• You have to buy the jet assembly separately.

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2. Goulds J5S Shallow Well Jet Pump

Shallow well jet pumps may share a similar mode of operation but they are never created equal. Every pump brand and model has its unique quality proposition. The Goulds J5S Shallow Well Jet Pump for boasts some unique features. First off, it has a compact design and comes with an in-built shallow well adapter in its casing. Therefore, this eliminates the need for a shallow well adapter. The pump also meet set NEMA standards. In addition to these, this one of the pumps with top level power capability. It comes with a 60 HZ ½ HP single phase 115/230 Voltage motor that delivers up to 3500 RPM. The built-in overload with its automatic reset also makes things much easier. It is also important that the pump has a back pullout design meaning you can bring it done without disturbing piping.

Features

• Made of cast iron and has a stainless steel shaft.
• Comes with F.D.A compliant tubing and fittings. These are made of U.V and corrosion resistant plastic material.
• No need to buy a separate shallow well adapter since the pump comes with an inbuilt shallow well adapter at the casing.
• It has a diffuser to align well with impeller. It also has a wear ring that helps the pump stand strong even in abrasive conditions.
• The plastic tubing and fittings are removable for cleaning.
• The motor has two compartments to make it easy to access motor wiring and other replaceable components.
• The pump has a back pullout design meaning it can easily be disassembled without disturbing the piping.
• Comes with a 1.35 inch NPT suction and 1 inch NPT discharge. It also has a preset pressure switch at 30-50 PSI.
• Motor power capacity is 60 Hz, 115/230 Volts, and ½ HP delivering 3500 RPM.
• Has a stainless steel shaft and built-in overload with auto reset.
• Best suited for many applications including; cottages, cabins, households, Booster service, and many others.
• Maximum temperature is 140°F.
• Pump dimensions are 17.2 x 9.9 x 8.8 inches and it weighs 60 pounds.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Offers top level performance.
• Durable motor.
• Easy to service the pump.
• Easy access to motor for service and maintenance.
• The shallow well adapter is included.
• Meets set F.D.A and NEMA standards.
• Quality for money.
• Mechanical seal never runs dry.
• Pump can re-prime itself since it has excellent air handling capability.
• Versatile.
• Reliable.
• Easy installation.
• Quiet.

Cons

• No negative feature noted.

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1. Red Lion 97080503 Shallow Well Jet Pump

On top of the list of the best shallow well jet pumps is this pump from Red Lion. This is a brand that is familiar with anyone who has been around for a while. Their premium quality products always stand out. This solid pump is designed to meet the water needs of those who not only reside in rural homes but also those within the city who require a reliable pump to provide uninterrupted supply of water to their household. The ease of installation and the compact nature of the pump make it ideal for those with farms and cabins. The jet pump and the pressure tank that comes pres-charged have already been assembled at factory level and are delivered ready to install. This makes your installation task hassle free.

The Red Lion 97080503 Shallow Well Jet Pump is constructed using rugged cast iron material which is hardy and durable. Included in the package also are: a foot valve, a horizontal pressure tank, a pressure gauge, and an injector.

Features

• This is a ½ HP shallow well jet pump.
• Made of solid rugged cast iron material.
• In addition to the pump, the package includes a pre-charged steel tank with a capacity of 5.8 gallons, and one pressure gauge. The pump can be set to for use with 230 Volts or 115 Volts.
• Designed to meet the needs of rural households, cabins, ranches, farms, and other areas where a compact water pumping system that is easy to install is required.
• The unit has a low profile 30/50 pressure switch and premium quality diaphragm water chamber. The pressure tank is horizontal by design also.
• Pump dimensions are 22.9 x 14.5 x 25.2 inches and it weighs 38.3 pounds.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Easy to setup. Comes pre-installed.
• Made of strong and durable cast iron material.
• Meets the water needs of cabins, rural homes, ranches, farms, and many others.
• Excellent flow rate.
• The steel tank is pre-charged.
• Good capacity tank.
• Quiet operation.
• Reliable.
• Good quality product.
• Very powerful and well made.

Cons

• Tank is not big enough for large households.

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A Final Word

The best shallow well jet pumps discussed above have stood out from the pack given the combination of features, benefits, and strong points they boast. You have so many options to choose from when considering a water pumping solution for your reservoir or well that is 25 feet or less. Different brands have their share of pros and cons and hence the need compare a number of well pumps prior to making a purchase.

The greatest advantage associated with all jet pumps is that they do not require regular maintenance. However, new installations tend to be blocked by plastic cuttings or dirt at the nozzle. This affects pressure build up. The pumps that also pumps water with plenty of silt or sand tends to wear out the impeller and this negatively impacts the pumping capacity and maximum attainable pressure. It is also wise to note that a runs dry ends up leaking. You should therefore never let the pump run dry.