One of the most common questions we get is simple: "What kind of pump do I need?" The answer usually comes down to one thing — how deep your well is. Here's a straightforward breakdown to help you figure it out.
What Is a Shallow Well Pump?
A shallow well jet pump sits above ground — typically in your basement, utility room, or a pump house — and pulls water up from the well using suction. Think of it like a straw: the pump creates a vacuum and atmospheric pressure pushes the water up.
The problem with suction is that it has limits. Physics caps it at around 25 feet under ideal conditions. In the real world, accounting for friction losses and elevation, shallow well pumps are reliably effective to about 25 feet of depth.
If your well is 25 feet deep or less, a shallow well jet pump like the Franklin Electric VersaJet Pro is likely the right choice. It's simpler to install, easier to service (since it's above ground), and less expensive than a submersible system.
What Is a Submersible Well Pump?
A submersible pump is installed inside the well casing, submerged in the water. Rather than pulling water up with suction, it pushes water up from below — which is far more efficient and has no practical depth limitation for residential wells.
Submersible pumps are the standard choice for any well deeper than 25 feet, which covers the vast majority of modern residential wells across the US. They're sealed units designed to operate underwater for years without maintenance.
How to Tell What Type of System You Have
Look in your basement or utility room:
- If you see a pump sitting on the floor or wall connected to a pipe going into the ground — you have a shallow well jet pump system.
-
- If you only see a pressure tank (a large metal tank, usually with a gauge on it) and wires going into the ground — you have a submersible pump system. The pump itself is down in the well.
What About Constant Pressure Systems?
Whether you have a shallow well or submersible system, you can add a constant pressure controller to eliminate the pressure fluctuations most homes experience when multiple fixtures run at once. Controllers like the Franklin Electric SubDrive Utility and Grundfos CU301 adjust pump speed in real time to keep your pressure steady — no more pressure drops when someone flushes the toilet while you're in the shower.
Still Not Sure?
If you're replacing an existing pump and aren't sure what you have, the easiest thing to do is call us at 715-281-5885. Tell us what you see in your utility room and we'll help you identify your system and find the right replacement.