Submersible pumps are everywhere, in wells, sump pits, sewage basins, and construction sites, because they are efficient and reliable. A submersible pump sits directly in the water and pushes it up to the surface, rather than sucking it up from above like a jet pump. That simple difference is why they handle depth and run so quietly.
This guide covers how submersible pumps work, their main parts, where they are used, and how to choose one. Explore the full range of submersible pumps as you read.
How They Work: Push, Not Pull
A submersible pump is a sealed unit that operates underwater. Inside, an electric motor spins one or more impellers that push water up through the discharge pipe. Because the pump is already submerged, it does not have to fight suction limits the way an above-ground pump does, so it can lift water from great depths and never needs priming.
The Main Parts
- Sealed motor, waterproofed so it can run underwater
- Impeller stack, the spinning blades that move and pressurize the water
- Intake screen, which keeps debris out of the pump
- Discharge outlet, where water leaves under pressure
- A power cord rated for continuous submersion
Where Submersible Pumps Are Used
Because the design is so versatile, submersible pumps show up in many jobs:
- Wells, for reliable household water from deep sources
- Sump pits, to keep basements dry (see our sump pumps)
- Sewage basins, using solids-handling sewage pumps
- Construction and flood work, with rugged dewatering pumps
- Ponds and water features, for quiet continuous circulation
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Not sure which submersible pump you need? The ePumps team can match a pump to your application. Browse submersible pumps or call (844) 378-6771. |
Submersible vs Jet and Above-Ground Pumps
A jet pump sits above ground and pulls water up by suction, which limits how deep it can reach and means it must be primed. A submersible pushes water from below, so it handles depth easily and runs quietly, but it is harder to reach for service. For most deep wells, submersibles win on efficiency; for shallow setups, a jet pump can be simpler to maintain.
How to Choose One
Match the pump to four things: the application (well, sump, sewage, dewatering, pond), the flow rate you need in gallons per minute, the total head or lift to the discharge point, and the size of solids the pump must pass. Trusted brands like Tsurumi, Myers, and Grundfos cover most needs; our Tsurumi buyer's guide helps compare series.
Final Thoughts
Submersible pumps work by pushing water from below the surface, which makes them efficient, quiet, and well suited to depth. Once you know your application, flow, head, and solids, choosing the right one is straightforward, and the ePumps team is happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a submersible pump work?
It sits in the water and uses a sealed motor to spin impellers that push water up the discharge pipe. Because it is already submerged, it does not rely on suction and never needs priming.
What is the difference between a submersible pump and a jet pump?
A submersible sits in the water and pushes it up, handling depth easily and running quietly. A jet pump sits above ground and pulls water up by suction, which limits depth and requires priming.
Where are submersible pumps used?
In wells, sump pits, sewage basins, construction dewatering, and ponds. The sealed, submerged design makes them versatile across many water-moving jobs.
How do I choose a submersible pump?
Match it to your application, the flow rate in gallons per minute, the total head or lift, and the size of solids it must handle. That narrows the field quickly.
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Find the right submersible pump for your job. Shop submersible pumps at ePumps or call (844) 378-6771 for expert help. |
