Jet Pump vs Submersible Pump: Which Well Pump Is Right for You?
Published February 1, 2026 | 10 min read
Choosing between a jet pump and a submersible pump is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your private well system. Both pump types serve the same purpose—bringing water from underground to your home—but they work in fundamentally different ways. Understanding these differences will help you select the right shallow well pump or deep well pump for your specific situation, saving you money and headaches for years to come.
Quick Answer: Jet Pump vs Submersible
- Choose a jet pump if: Your well is less than 25 feet deep, you need easy maintenance access, or you're on a tight budget for a shallow well.
- Choose a submersible pump if: Your well is deeper than 25 feet, you want maximum efficiency, prefer quiet operation, or have a deep well typical of Southern California (200-600+ feet).
How Jet Pumps Work
Jet pumps are installed above ground, typically in a well house, basement, or utility room. They use a combination of suction and pressure to draw water up from the well. The pump creates a partial vacuum that pulls water through the intake pipe, then pressurizes it and sends it to your home's plumbing system.
There are two types of jet pumps: shallow well jet pumps and deep well jet pumps. Shallow well pumps use a single pipe and work for wells up to 25 feet deep. Deep well jet pumps use a two-pipe system—one pipe pushes water down while the other brings it up—allowing them to reach depths of 80-110 feet.
The limitation of jet pumps comes from physics. Atmospheric pressure can only push water up about 25 feet against gravity. Deep well jet pumps overcome this somewhat by using a jet assembly (ejector) installed in the well, but even this system has its limits. Beyond 110 feet, jet pumps simply cannot generate enough suction to be practical.
How Submersible Pumps Work
Submersible pumps take a completely different approach. Instead of pulling water up from above, they push water up from below. The entire pump assembly—motor and pump—is installed deep inside the well, fully submerged in water.
When activated, the sealed motor spins a series of impellers that force water up through the drop pipe to your pressure tank at the surface. Because submersible pumps push rather than pull, they can work at extreme depths. Many models can lift water from 400 feet or more, making them ideal for the deep wells common throughout San Diego County.
The water surrounding the pump also serves as a coolant for the motor, helping extend its lifespan. This design means submersible pumps can run continuously for extended periods without overheating—something jet pumps cannot do as effectively.
Depth Limitations Compared
Depth is often the deciding factor when choosing between jet pump vs submersible options. Here's what you need to know:
| Pump Type | Maximum Depth | Optimal Range |
|---|---|---|
| Shallow Well Jet Pump | 25 feet | 0-20 feet |
| Deep Well Jet Pump | 80-110 feet | 25-80 feet |
| Submersible Pump | 400+ feet | 25-400+ feet |
In Southern California, where aquifers often sit 200-600 feet below ground, submersible pumps are the default choice. Jet pumps are typically only viable in areas with unusually high water tables or for specific shallow well applications.
Efficiency Comparison
When comparing which well pump is more efficient, submersible pumps win decisively. This difference comes down to how each pump moves water:
Jet pumps must work against physics. They use energy to create suction, fight atmospheric pressure limitations, and overcome friction in the pipes. Deep well jet pumps are even less efficient because they must continuously recirculate water through the ejector assembly. Overall efficiency ratings for jet pumps range from 25-40%.
Submersible pumps push water upward, working more naturally with the physics of water movement. With no suction losses and minimal friction, submersible pumps achieve efficiency ratings of 50-70%. This means more of your electricity goes toward actually moving water rather than being lost to mechanical inefficiency.
Energy Cost Example: For a 300-foot well running 3 hours daily, a submersible pump might cost $25-35/month in electricity, while a comparable jet pump system (if it could even work at that depth) would cost $50-75/month due to lower efficiency.
Maintenance Differences
Maintenance requirements differ significantly between these two pump types, and this is where jet pumps have a legitimate advantage.
Jet Pump Maintenance
Because jet pumps are installed above ground, they're easily accessible for inspection, repair, and replacement. You can visually check the pump, listen for unusual sounds, and quickly diagnose problems. Common maintenance includes checking the pressure switch, inspecting the motor, and occasionally replacing the impeller or seals.
If a jet pump fails, a homeowner with mechanical skills can sometimes replace it themselves, and professional replacement typically takes just a few hours. Parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive.
Submersible Pump Maintenance
Submersible pumps are installed deep underground, making maintenance more complicated. You can't simply walk up to the pump to inspect it. However, modern submersible pumps are designed to be remarkably reliable, often running for 10-15 years without any maintenance beyond the pressure tank and controls at the surface.
When a submersible pump does fail, professional help is typically required. The pump must be pulled up from the well—a job requiring specialized equipment for deep wells. This process can take half a day to a full day and costs more in labor. Learn more about recognizing when your well pump is failing so you can plan ahead.
Noise Levels
If peace and quiet matter to you, submersible pumps are the clear winner. Since they operate deep underground, surrounded by water, you'll never hear them running. The only sound from a submersible pump system is the slight click of the pressure switch when the pump cycles on or off.
Jet pumps, on the other hand, make noticeable noise. The motor and pump assembly run at surface level, producing a humming or whirring sound every time they activate. For pumps installed in a basement or utility room, this noise can be audible throughout the house. Deep well jet pumps with recirculating systems tend to be louder than shallow well models.
If your well house is close to living areas or outdoor spaces where you relax, the constant cycling of a jet pump can become annoying—especially during high-demand periods when the pump runs frequently.
Cost Comparison
Cost is often a major factor in the jet pump vs submersible decision. Let's break down both initial and long-term costs:
Initial Purchase and Installation
| Component | Jet Pump | Submersible Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Pump Cost | $300-800 | $500-2,000 |
| Installation Labor | $300-600 | $800-2,000 |
| Additional Materials | $200-400 | $200-500 |
| Total Installed Cost | $800-1,800 | $1,500-4,000+ |
For a complete breakdown of pump replacement expenses, see our detailed guide on well pump replacement costs.
Long-Term Cost Analysis
While jet pumps cost less upfront, submersible pumps often prove more economical over time due to:
- Lower energy bills: 30-50% better efficiency saves $100-300+ annually
- Longer lifespan: 10-15 years vs 4-10 years means fewer replacements
- Less frequent repairs: Fewer moving parts exposed to the elements
- Better resale value: Homes with submersible pumps are more attractive to buyers
Lifespan Expectations
How long each pump type lasts depends on water quality, usage patterns, and proper sizing—but submersible pumps generally outlast jet pumps:
- Shallow well jet pumps: 4-10 years average lifespan
- Deep well jet pumps: 5-10 years average lifespan
- Submersible pumps: 10-15 years average lifespan (some last 20+ years)
Several factors can shorten pump life for both types: high sediment content in the water, frequent cycling due to undersized pressure tanks, running dry (especially dangerous for submersibles), and electrical problems. A properly sized and installed submersible pump in clean water can provide reliable service for two decades.
Best Applications for Each Pump Type
When to Choose a Jet Pump
- Wells less than 25 feet deep (shallow well jet pump)
- Wells 25-80 feet deep with limited budget (deep well jet pump)
- Situations where easy access for repairs is crucial
- Temporary installations or rental properties
- Applications where DIY maintenance is preferred
- Older wells with narrow casings that can't accommodate submersibles
When to Choose a Submersible Pump
- Wells deeper than 25 feet (virtually required for 100+ feet)
- When energy efficiency and lower operating costs matter
- Where noise is a concern (near living spaces)
- High water demand households
- Properties in Southern California with deep aquifers
- When long-term reliability is prioritized over upfront cost
- Agricultural or irrigation applications with heavy use
Making the Right Choice for Your Property
The jet pump vs submersible decision ultimately comes down to your well's depth and your priorities. Here's a simple decision framework:
Decision Guide:
- Check your well depth. If it's over 110 feet, you need a submersible—period.
- If under 25 feet, a shallow well jet pump is the most economical choice unless noise or efficiency are priorities.
- If 25-110 feet, consider both options. Submersible pumps cost more upfront but save money long-term.
- Factor in your well casing diameter. Submersibles typically need 4-inch or larger casings.
- Consider your water demand. High-use properties benefit from submersible efficiency.
For most properties in San Diego, Riverside, and surrounding counties, submersible pumps are the recommended choice. Our deep aquifers and water-conscious community benefit from the efficiency and reliability these pumps provide. However, if you have a genuinely shallow well, a quality jet pump can serve you well at a lower initial investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: a jet pump or submersible pump?
It depends on your well depth. For shallow wells under 25 feet, jet pumps are more economical and easier to maintain. For wells deeper than 25 feet, submersible pumps are the better choice—they're more efficient, quieter, and can handle depths exceeding 400 feet. In Southern California, where most wells are 200-600 feet deep, submersible pumps are the standard recommendation.
How deep can a jet pump pull water?
Shallow well jet pumps can pull water from a maximum of 25 feet. Deep well jet pumps with a two-pipe system can reach depths of 80-110 feet, though efficiency decreases significantly at greater depths. Beyond 110 feet, submersible pumps are the only practical option as jet pumps cannot overcome the physical limitations of atmospheric pressure used for suction.
Why are submersible pumps more efficient than jet pumps?
Submersible pumps push water up from below, working with gravity rather than against it. Jet pumps must overcome atmospheric pressure limitations to pull water up using suction. Submersible pumps convert 50-70% of energy into water movement, while jet pumps only achieve 25-40% efficiency. This difference can save $100-300 annually on electricity for deep wells.
How much does it cost to replace a jet pump vs submersible pump?
Jet pump replacement typically costs $800-1,800 including installation, while submersible pump replacement ranges from $1,500-4,000 depending on well depth. Though submersible pumps cost more upfront, their longer lifespan (10-15 years vs 4-10 years for jet pumps) and lower operating costs often make them the better long-term investment.
Can I convert from a jet pump to a submersible pump?
Yes, converting from a jet pump to a submersible pump is possible if your well casing is at least 4 inches in diameter. The conversion involves removing the jet pump and piping, installing the submersible pump and motor deep in the well, running new electrical wiring, and potentially upgrading your pressure tank. Most homeowners who make this switch report improved water pressure, lower noise, and reduced energy bills.
Need Help Choosing the Right Well Pump?
Our experienced technicians can evaluate your well and recommend the best pump for your depth, water demand, and budget. We install and service both jet pumps and submersible pumps throughout San Diego and Riverside Counties.
Call (760) 440-8520 for a Free Consultation