How to Compare Water Well Pump Types Effectively

To compare water well pumps effectively, we need to match the pump type to your well depth and household flow requirements. Shallow wells (under 25 feet) need shallow well pumps, while depths of 25-200 feet require deep well jet pumps. For wells over 90 feet, submersible pumps provide better energy efficiency. Consider your GPM needs (typically 3-5 GPM for homes) and factor in installation and maintenance accessibility. These key considerations will guide you toward the ideal pump selection.

Key Takeaways

• Match well depth to pump type: shallow pumps for under 25 feet, jet pumps for 25-200 feet, submersible pumps for over 90 feet.
• Calculate your household's required flow rate (GPM) by adding up simultaneous fixture usage during peak demand periods.
• Consider energy efficiency differences: submersible pumps use less energy for deep wells than jet pumps or centrifugal systems.
• Evaluate installation complexity and accessibility for maintenance, with submersible pumps requiring full extraction for repairs.
• Compare long-term maintenance requirements and costs between above-ground pumps (easier access) and submersible systems (more difficult servicing).

Understanding Well Depth and Its Impact on Pump Selection

The single most significant factor in choosing the right water well pump is understanding your well's depth. Without this essential measurement, you're fundamentally guessing at which pump will work efficiently for your situation.

For shallow wells (under 25 feet), we recommend shallow well pumps that can effectively draw water without excessive power requirements.

When dealing with depths between 25-200 feet, deep well jet pumps offer excellent versatility, especially in areas with fluctuating water tables.

For wells exceeding 90 feet, submersible pumps provide ideal performance with minimal energy loss.

Don't overlook the Total Lift Head (TLH) calculation alongside your well depth assessment. This measurement, combined with your static water level, guarantees you'll select a pump that maintains adequate flow and pressure for your specific needs, whether residential or agricultural.

Evaluating Flow Rate Requirements for Your Household

After determining your well's depth, it's time to focus on how much water your household actually needs. Understanding your water demand is crucial for proper pump selection, as flow rate—measured in gallons per minute (GPM)—determines your system's capacity to meet daily needs.

We'll need to calculate your household water usage by adding the GPM requirements of fixtures that operate simultaneously. This peak demand, combined with your static water level and vertical lift considerations, guarantees your pump delivers consistent supply. Most residential homes need 3-5 GPM, but larger households may require more capacity.

Comparing Energy Efficiency Across Pump Types

When selecting a well pump for your home, energy efficiency should rank high on your priority list, as it directly impacts both your utility bills and environmental footprint.

For deep wells, submersible pumps offer superior energy-efficient performance by operating directly in the water, minimizing energy lost during lifting.

Jet pumps consume more energy creating vacuum pressure and typically lead to higher operating costs, especially as water levels drop.

While centrifugal pumps work efficiently for shallow applications under 25 feet, they're impractical for deeper installations.

We've found that matching pump capacity to your household's water demand prevents efficiency losses from oversized equipment.

Don't overlook maintenance tips: regular servicing of any pump type—particularly checking for leaks and airlocks—ensures peak efficiency throughout its lifespan, regardless of which system you choose.

Assessing Installation and Maintenance Considerations

Installing and maintaining your water well pump represents a considerable factor in both upfront costs and long-term satisfaction with your water system.

We've found that different pump types present distinct maintenance challenges and installation complexities.

Consider these critical factors when comparing your options:

1. Accessibility - Submersible pumps offer excellent efficiency but require complete well extraction for repairs, while above-ground pumps like shallow well jet pumps provide easier maintenance access.
2. Installation complexity - Deep well jet pumps demand intricate dual piping systems, increasing both initial setup and long-term costs.
3. Protection features - Pumps with overload protection considerably extend operational life by preventing motor burnout during power fluctuations.

Regular inspection remains essential for all pump types to maintain efficiency and prevent issues that could increase your long-term costs through decreased performance or premature replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Choose the Correct Well Pump?

We'll select our well pump by measuring well depth, calculating water demand in GPM, and determining total lift head. Let's consider energy efficiency and maintenance needs too, consulting professionals for ideal results.

How to Compare Water Pumps?

We'll compare water pumps by evaluating well depth, flow rate, pressure requirements, installation complexity, energy efficiency, and durability. Don't forget to match your specific needs with each pump's performance characteristics.

What Type of Pump Is Best for Well Water?

We'd recommend submersible pumps for deep wells (25+ feet), jet pumps for moderate depths, and centrifugal pumps for shallow wells. Your water demand and maintenance preferences should guide your final choice.

How to Compare Two Pumps?

We'll need to compare depth capacity, flow rates, installation requirements, pressure ratings, and energy efficiency between the two pumps to determine which best suits your specific well situation.

Rick Callahan Plumbing & HVAC Expert at PSAM

Rick "The Plumbing & HVAC Guy" Callahan

Rick Callahan is the trusted authority for plumbing supplies, HVAC parts, and contractor solutions at Plumbing Supply and More (PSAM). With decades of hands-on experience in residential plumbing and light commercial HVAC systems, he helps pros and homeowners avoid costly mistakes by choosing the right fittings, valves, thermostats, and repair parts the first time.

As PSAM’s in-house technical advisor, Rick delivers practical, field-tested guidance on everything from copper piping to PEX plumbing systems—ensuring jobs get done faster, easier, and more reliably. He also curates “Rick’s Picks”—a no-nonsense list of must-have plumbing tools, HVAC maintenance gear, and seasonal essentials that keep projects efficient and dependable.

If it moves water or air, Rick has installed it, fixed it, or optimized it—and he’s here to help PSAM customers do the same.