Jet Pump v. Submersible Well Pumps

What's the difference between jet pumps and submersible well pumps?

You'd think that selecting a well pump would be easy considering there are only two types available, but that's often not the case. In order to determine which well pump is right for the job you need to have a good understanding of what jet pumps and submersible well pumps are. Here's a closer look at both well pumps.

Jet pump basics

Jet pumps are typically above ground pumps that are available in two styles. Both of these styles work the same, but just have different applications. 

How do jet pumps work?

Components of a jet pump, like the diffuser and the impeller, work together to create a vacuum, which essentially causes water to be pulled or sucked in as it is pushed out to the pipe.

What are the differences?

The difference between the two styles of jet pumps begins with the location of the jet ejector. The jet ejector is located above ground with the pump on the shallow well jet pumps whereas on the deep well jet pump the jet ejector is submerged.

Benefits of jet pumps to consider

Due to the fact that jet pumps are above ground they are easy to service.

Jet pumps work well in shallow irrigation wells.

Sand in the water doesn't seem to affect the performance of jet pumps.

The scoop on submersible well pumps

Submersible well pumps, like their name suggests, are submerged into the well. Typically submersible well pumps are installed a few feet from the bottom of the well.

How do submersible well pumps work?

Instead of pulling the water into the pump and then pushing it out like jet pumps, submersible well pumps use pressure to operate instead of suction. Submersible well pumps are designed to simply push the water out and drive it into the tank.

Benefits of submersible well pumps to consider

Submersible well pumps are remarkably efficient.

There are no depth limitations with submersible well pumps.

With most submersible well pumps the pump and motor sections are sealed, making them practically maintenance free.

Which well pump is better?

Unfortunately, there really is no clear answer to the question of which well pump is better. There are definite advantages and disadvantages to each type of well pump. In the end you must take into consideration the depth and yield of the well to determine whether a jet pump or submersible well pump will handle the job better.

More information on well pumps