Title:
“Jet Pumps Demystified: 9 Smart Reasons They Still Dominate Shallow Wells in 2025 (Buyer’s Guide Inside!)”
Introduction
Looking for a reliable and cost-effective solution to draw water from your shallow well? You’re not alone. Despite the rise of advanced technologies like submersible pumps, jet pumps remain a staple for homeowners, small farms, and businesses that rely on shallow to mid-depth wells. Their continued relevance in 2025 is no accident—it’s built on versatility, affordability, and proven performance.
This blog explores everything you need to know about jet pumps, from FAQs to expert insights, and why they may be the ideal solution for your water system. Let’s dive in.
What Is a Jet Pump?
A jet pump is a non-submersible pump that sits above ground and uses suction to draw water from the well through a nozzle and venturi mechanism. Depending on the depth of your well, you’ll encounter two types:
Shallow Well Jet Pumps – Best for wells up to 25 feet deep.
Deep Well Jet Pumps – Use a two-pipe system to reach up to 110 feet deep.
9 Reasons Jet Pumps Still Win in 2025
1. Cost-Effective Entry Point
Jet pumps are among the most affordable well pumps, both in terms of purchase and maintenance. Perfect for budget-conscious installations or backup water systems.
2. Easy Installation and Access
Because they’re mounted above ground, jet pumps are easier to install, maintain, and repair. No need to pull a pump out of a 100-foot well for a simple fix.
3. Reliable for Shallow Wells
Jet pumps are specially designed to perform well in shallow depths. For wells up to 25 feet deep, no other system offers a better mix of price, performance, and simplicity.
4. Dual Functionality
Deep well jet pumps can draw water from deeper sources while maintaining pressure for household use. Their dual-pipe system separates suction and delivery, making them more efficient in varied terrains.
5. No Risk of Submersion Damage
Since jet pumps sit above ground, they’re not vulnerable to water corrosion or submersion damage, a common issue for submerged systems in flood-prone areas.
6. Quick Troubleshooting
Jet pumps are easier to diagnose due to their visible setup. You can identify leaks, clogs, or mechanical failures without specialized tools or digging.
7. Versatile Use Cases
Jet pumps aren’t just for wells. They’re used in garden irrigation, booster systems, sump applications, and even light industrial processes.
8. Widely Available Parts
Most hardware and pump supply stores carry replacement parts for jet pumps, unlike niche submersible models that may require factory orders or special fittings.
9. Proven Track Record
Jet pumps have been around for decades and continue to evolve. With modern pressure switches, thermal protection, and improved motors, they’re more efficient and durable than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jet Pumps
Q1: Are jet pumps energy efficient?
They are moderately efficient. While they use more energy than submersible pumps, the difference is often offset by easier maintenance and lower upfront costs.
Q2: How long do jet pumps last?
On average, a jet pump lasts 7 to 12 years. With proper maintenance and a consistent power supply, many reach the higher end of that range.
Q3: Can a jet pump draw water from a deep well?
Yes—deep well jet pumps with a dual-pipe system can lift water from depths up to 110 feet, although performance may vary based on elevation and pressure needs.
Q4: What’s the difference between single and double pipe systems?
Single-pipe (shallow well): Suited for <25 feet, simpler design.
Double-pipe (deep well): Allows deeper water extraction by separating suction and discharge lines.
Q5: Is priming required?
Yes. Jet pumps must be primed before initial use and anytime the system loses suction. This involves filling the pump with water to create pressure.
Jet Pump vs Submersible Pump: Which Should You Choose?
Feature Jet Pump Submersible Pump
Installation Depth Shallow to mid (25–110 ft) Deep (25–400+ ft)
Location Above ground Underwater
Ease of Maintenance High Low
Energy Efficiency Moderate High
Installation Cost Low to Medium High
Noise Level Moderate Very Low
Use Case Homes, gardens, irrigation Residential, commercial
Essential Buying Considerations
✅ Know Your Well Depth
Use a shallow well pump if your well is under 25 feet.
Use a deep well jet pump if your water table is between 25–110 feet.
✅ Check Flow Rate Needs
Most households need about 8–12 gallons per minute (GPM). Match the pump’s specs to your family’s usage.
✅ Evaluate Power Source
Ensure your home supports 115V or 230V, as required by your pump.
✅ Consider Climate Conditions
In cold climates, jet pumps should be installed in insulated pump houses to prevent freezing.
Real-World Example: Jet Pump Success Story
When a small farm in Ohio faced recurring issues with their old hand-pump system, they upgraded to a deep well jet pump. With minor upfront costs and quick installation, they immediately noticed:
Stronger water pressure
Faster irrigation turnaround
Reliable performance through winter
It saved the farm over $500 annually in water delivery and manual labor costs.
Conclusion
In 2025, jet pumps continue to provide cost-effective, dependable solutions for shallow and mid-depth water systems. If you need reliable water delivery without the complexity or high costs of submersible pumps, a jet pump may be your smartest move.