Types, Uses, and How to Choose the Right One

Well pumps are essential systems that deliver water from underground wells to homes, farms, and facilities that are not connected to municipal water supplies. From providing drinking water to supporting irrigation and livestock needs, a well pump ensures consistent access to water where surface supply isn’t available.

Understanding how well pumps work, the different types available, and how to choose the right one helps ensure reliable water pressure, efficient operation, and long-term system performance.

What Is a Well Pump?

A well pump is a mechanical device that moves water from an underground well into a plumbing system or storage tank. The pump draws or pushes water upward from below ground and supplies it to a home, irrigation system, or agricultural operation at usable pressure.

Well pumps are selected based on factors such as well depth, water demand, system pressure requirements, and maintenance accessibility.

How Does a Well Pump Work?

Well pumps operate by converting electrical or mechanical energy into hydraulic energy to move water upward from the well. Depending on the pump design, water is either pushed upward from within the well or pulled upward using suction from above ground.

Submersible pumps push water upward from deep inside the well, while jet and centrifugal pumps pull water using suction. The pump then delivers water into a pressure tank or distribution system to maintain steady flow and pressure.

 

Common Types of Well Pumps

Well pumps are generally classified by installation method and well depth.

Submersible Well Pumps

Submersible pumps are installed inside the well and operate underwater. They push water upward rather than pulling it, which makes them highly efficient and quiet. These pumps are ideal for deep wells and are commonly used in residential, agricultural, and commercial applications.

Submersible well pumps are typically used for wells deeper than 25 feet and can operate efficiently at depths exceeding 100 feet.

Jet Pumps

Jet pumps are installed above ground and use suction to draw water from the well.

Shallow Well Jet Pumps
Designed for wells up to approximately 25 feet deep, shallow well jet pumps are cost-effective and easy to access for maintenance.

Deep Well (Convertible) Jet Pumps
Used for wells between 25 and 110 feet deep, deep well jet pumps use an ejector assembly to increase suction capability. Convertible models can adapt to changing water levels.

Centrifugal Pumps

Centrifugal pumps are simple, above-ground pumps commonly used for very shallow wells or surface water sources. They are cost-effective but limited in suction depth and are best suited for low-depth applications.

Common Uses for Well Pumps

Well pumps support a wide range of residential, agricultural, and light commercial needs, including:

• Supplying household water for drinking, bathing, and cleaning
  
  

• Irrigation systems for lawns, gardens, and crops
  
  

• Agricultural water supply for livestock
  
  

• Pressure boosting in private well systems
  
  

• Backup water supply in rural or off-grid locations
  
  

Reliable pump selection ensures consistent water pressure and uninterrupted service.

Benefits of Using the Right Well Pump

Selecting the correct well pump provides several advantages:

• Consistent water pressure throughout the system
  
  

• Reliable water access independent of municipal supply
  
  

• Energy efficiency when matched to well depth and demand
  
  

• Long equipment lifespan with proper sizing and installation
  
  

• Lower maintenance costs over time
  
  

The right pump protects both the well and the plumbing system.

Submersible Well Pumps vs. Jet Pumps

Submersible well pumps are generally preferred for deeper wells due to their efficiency, quiet operation, and reduced risk of suction loss. Because they push water upward, they perform well at greater depths and handle higher demand more effectively.

Jet pumps are easier to service since they are installed above ground, making them suitable for shallow or moderate-depth wells where accessibility is a priority. However, they are less efficient at deeper depths due to suction limitations.

The choice depends primarily on well depth, maintenance preferences, and water demand.

Who Should Use a Well Pump?

Well pumps are ideal for:

• Homeowners with private or rural water wells
  
  

• Agricultural operations supplying water for livestock or crops
  
  

• Property owners without access to municipal water
  
  

• Facilities requiring independent water sources
  
  

• Irrigation systems drawing from underground wells
  
  

Any location relying on groundwater as its primary water source requires a properly selected well pump.

How to Choose the Right Well Pump

Selecting the correct well pump depends on several critical factors:

1. Determine Well Depth

Well depth is the most important factor. Shallow wells typically use jet or centrifugal pumps, while deep wells require submersible or deep well jet pumps.

2. Calculate Water Demand (GPM)

Estimate how much water your household or operation requires. A typical residential home may require 8–12 gallons per minute, with additional demand for irrigation or multiple fixtures.

3. Consider Well Capacity

The pump must match the well’s ability to produce water. Oversizing a pump can strain the well and reduce longevity.

4. Pressure Requirements

Ensure the pump can maintain adequate pressure for your plumbing system, often supported by a pressure tank and switch.

5. Maintenance & Accessibility

Submersible pumps require removal from the well for servicing, while jet pumps are easier to access above ground.

6. Energy Efficiency

Efficient pump selection reduces electricity costs, especially in systems that run frequently.

Common Well Pump Issues

Well pumps can experience issues if improperly selected or maintained:

• Low water pressure due to incorrect sizing
  
  

• Air leaks in suction lines (jet pumps)
  
  

• Motor overheating from dry running
  
  

• Wear caused by sand or sediment
  
  

• Electrical or pressure switch failures
  
  

Routine inspection and proper sizing help prevent these problems.

Maintenance Tips for Well Pumps

To ensure long-term reliability:

• Monitor pressure tank and switch operation
  
  

• Check electrical connections and controls
  
  

• Inspect for leaks or pressure fluctuations
  
  

• Keep sediment out of the system when possible
  
  

• Schedule professional inspections periodically
  
  

Preventive maintenance helps extend pump life and maintain water quality.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Well Pumps

What type of well pump do I need?
The correct pump depends on well depth, water demand, and system pressure requirements.

Is a submersible pump better than a jet pump?
Submersible pumps are generally more efficient and better for deep wells, while jet pumps are easier to access and maintain.

How long do well pumps last?
With proper installation and maintenance, well pumps can last 8–15 years or longer.

Do well pumps use a lot of electricity?
Energy use depends on pump size, run time, and efficiency. Proper sizing helps minimize power consumption.

 

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Get Reliable Well Pumps From ePumps

Choosing the right well pump is essential for consistent water supply and long-term performance. At ePumps, we offer a wide selection of well pumps designed for residential, agricultural, and light commercial applications.

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