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10 Best Shallow Well Jet Pumps 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Red Lion RJS-100-PREM 1 HP, 23 GPM, 115/230 Volt, Premium Cast Iron Shallow Well Jet Pump, Red, 602208

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,417
Maximum Lift
Pressure Switch Settings
Noise Level

Most important from
1418 reviews

Maximum Lift
Great suction and output, capable of drawing water from 23 feet deep, making it ideal for lawn watering and car washing.
Pressure Switch Settings
The pump's pressure switch can be adjusted from the factory setting of 30-50 psi to 40-60 psi for higher pressure needs.
Noise Level
The Red Lion pump is quiet, runs smoothly, and delivers 60 psi of water pressure, which is plenty for household use.

The Red Lion RJS-100-PREM is a robust shallow well jet pump designed for both amateur and professional use. It boasts a strong 1 horsepower motor, which can deliver up to 23 gallons per minute, making it efficient for various applications. The durable cast iron construction ensures a long-lasting build, while the glass-filled thermoplastic impeller and diffuser add to its durability.

This pump can operate on either 115 or 230 volts, providing flexibility for different power sources, and the factory pre-set 30/50 pressure switch simplifies installation and operation. Additionally, it includes a pressure gauge for easy monitoring of pump performance. The motor supports a maximum pressure of 65 PSI and a maximum head of 150 feet, though it operates best within a maximum lifting height of 25 feet.

Weighing 40.3 pounds, it is relatively heavy but manageable for installation. Users should be aware that this pump requires corded electric power and does not come with batteries. The 1-year warranty provides some peace of mind, making it a reliable choice for those in need of a dependable shallow well jet pump.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,417
Maximum Lift
Pressure Switch Settings
Noise Level

Most important from
1418 reviews

Maximum Lift
Great suction and output, capable of drawing water from 23 feet deep, making it ideal for lawn watering and car washing.
Pressure Switch Settings
The pump's pressure switch can be adjusted from the factory setting of 30-50 psi to 40-60 psi for higher pressure needs.
Noise Level
The Red Lion pump is quiet, runs smoothly, and delivers 60 psi of water pressure, which is plenty for household use.
#2

Goulds J15S Shallow Well Jet Pump, 1-1/2 HP, 1 PH

The Goulds J15S is a 1.5 horsepower shallow well jet pump designed for typical household water needs. It runs on single-phase AC power (115/230V), making it compatible with standard home electrical setups. Its cast iron and stainless steel build ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, which is important for long-lasting performance when drawing water from shallow wells. Weighing 65 pounds, it’s a solidly built unit that reflects quality materials.

Pumps in this class generally provide sufficient pressure and volume for residential use, such as watering lawns or supplying water to a home. The diaphragm style suggests reliable pumping action, and Goulds pumps typically operate quietly enough for home use without causing disturbance. This pump is best suited for homeowners with shallow wells needing a dependable, moderately powerful pump with sturdy construction.

#3

Sta Rite - MSE-7 Shallow Well Jet Pump

Rating
8.5
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
6 reviews

Material and Build Quality
This pump demonstrates exceptional longevity, with units running flawlessly for decades without any rebuilds.

The Sta-Rite MSE-7 is a shallow well jet pump designed for drawing water from wells with relatively low depth. Its cast iron construction suggests good durability and resistance to wear, which is important for long-term use around water. Weighing 73 pounds, it’s a solid and sturdy pump, but that also means it might be a bit heavy to handle or install without assistance. The pump operates on AC/DC power, making it versatile for various power sources. Typically, shallow well jet pumps like this are suitable for household or small irrigation needs where the water source is within about 25 feet from the surface.

The product’s diaphragm style indicates it is designed to maintain steady pressure. Given its ranking in well pumps and the trusted Sta-Rite brand, this model meets basic expectations for reliability and effectiveness in shallow well applications. If you need detailed performance specs like exact flow rate or maximum lift, you might want to seek additional info before purchasing to ensure it matches your specific water needs.

Rating
8.5
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
6 reviews

Material and Build Quality
This pump demonstrates exceptional longevity, with units running flawlessly for decades without any rebuilds.

Buying Guide for the Best Shallow Well Jet Pumps

Choosing the right shallow-well jet pump is crucial for ensuring a reliable water supply for your home or garden. These pumps are designed to draw water from shallow wells, typically less than 25 feet deep. To make an informed decision, you need to consider several key specifications that will determine the pump's performance and suitability for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you select a pump that meets your requirements and provides efficient and consistent water delivery.
Horsepower (HP)Horsepower measures the power output of the pump's motor. It is important because it determines how much water the pump can move and how quickly it can do so. Pumps typically range from 0.5 HP to 1.5 HP. For small households or light usage, a 0.5 HP pump may be sufficient. For larger households or higher water demands, consider a pump with 1 HP or more. Your water needs and the depth of your well will guide you in choosing the right horsepower.
Flow Rate (GPM)Flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicates how much water the pump can deliver in a given time. This spec is crucial for ensuring that the pump can meet your water usage needs. Flow rates can vary widely, from around 5 GPM to over 20 GPM. For basic household needs, a flow rate of 5-10 GPM is usually adequate. If you have higher water demands, such as for irrigation or multiple fixtures running simultaneously, look for a pump with a higher flow rate.
Maximum LiftMaximum lift refers to the greatest vertical distance the pump can draw water from the well. This is important because it determines whether the pump can effectively draw water from your well's depth. Shallow-well jet pumps typically have a maximum lift of around 25 feet. Ensure that the maximum lift of the pump you choose exceeds the depth of your well to guarantee efficient operation.
Pressure Switch SettingsPressure switch settings control when the pump turns on and off based on the water pressure in the system. This is important for maintaining consistent water pressure and preventing the pump from running continuously. Common settings are 20/40 PSI or 30/50 PSI. For most residential applications, a 30/50 PSI setting is suitable, providing a good balance of pressure and pump longevity. Consider your water pressure needs and choose a pump with appropriate pressure switch settings.
Material and Build QualityThe material and build quality of the pump affect its durability and longevity. Pumps are typically made from cast iron, stainless steel, or thermoplastic. Cast iron and stainless steel are more durable and resistant to wear and corrosion, making them ideal for long-term use. Thermoplastic pumps are lighter and more affordable but may not last as long. Consider the environment in which the pump will be used and choose a material that offers the best balance of durability and cost for your situation.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important consideration, especially if the pump will be installed near living areas. Some pumps operate more quietly than others, which can be a significant factor for indoor installations. Noise levels are often measured in decibels (dB). If noise is a concern, look for pumps that are specifically designed to operate quietly or have noise-reducing features. Your tolerance for noise and the pump's installation location will guide you in choosing the right model.

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