Here’s an overview of the Best TOP 5 Shallow Well Jet Pumps : Expert that we’ll explore today:
Shallow well jet pumps are a practical solution for homeowners with shallow aquifers, providing reliable water delivery for households, cottages, and seasonal residences. The category combines durable cast-iron construction with compact, high-velocity jet configurations to lift water from wells typically less than 25 feet deep. Key decision drivers include flow rate (GPM), maximum head (feet), voltage compatibility (115/230V), and the balance between initial cost and long-term reliability. To compare these pumps, I evaluated build quality, electrical characteristics, stated performance (GPM and head), accompanying hardware (pressure switch, gauge), and the practical implications of dual-voltage operation and material durability. The five models in this review cover a range of capacities from 7.4 GPM to 23 GPM and from budget-friendly to premium builds, representing Red Lion, Wayne, and Goulds, with prices spanning roughly $206 to $530.
1. Red Lion RJS-100-PREM 1 HP
- Brand: Red Lion
- Manufacturer: Red Lion
Overview: This premium Red Lion model uses a cast-iron casing and volute with a glass-filled thermoplastic impeller and diffuser. It is a dual-voltage unit (115/230V) and ships with a factory preset 30/50 pressure switch, delivering up to 50 PSI working pressure and a max head of 150 ft. With a 1 HP motor and a 23 GPM rating, it targets higher-demand homes or small farms where multiple fixtures demand steady flow. The inclusion of a pressure gauge and a 30/50 switch suggests a plug-and-play approach for typical domestic systems, and the unit is CSA listed for U.S. and Canada, indicating compliance with multiple safety standards.
Performance-wise, the RJS-100-PREM emphasizes reliability under moderate to higher water demand. The 17 A at 115 V and 8.8 A at 230 V draw reflect a robust motor for continuous operation, while the 1-1/4 inch suction and 1 inch discharge ports align with standard residential piping. The 65 PSI max pressure and 150 ft max head indicate strong capability for multi-story homes or taller water columns. Real-world use will benefit from the dual-voltage flexibility in remodels or seasonal properties with different power setups, but users should verify local electrical supply matches the unit’s voltage and circuit capacity. The cast iron construction helps resist wear in demanding environments, though heavier units may require careful mounting and vibration management.
Pros
- High flow capacity for a 1 HP shallow well system (23 GPM)
- Dual voltage operation (115/230V) for flexibility
- Premium cast-iron housing with durable glass-filled impeller
- Includes pressure switch and gauge for immediate setup
- CSA listed for US and Canada
Cons
- Heavier unit (41 pounds) may require two-person installation
- Higher initial cost compared to budget options
- Max head (150 ft) may be underutilized in very deep wells
2. Goulds Pump J5S Shallow Well Jet Pump
- Brand: Goulds
- Manufacturer: Goulds
Overview: Goulds’ J5S is a 1/2 HP shallow well jet pump designed for smaller homes or cottages with shallower wells. It features a 1-1/4 inch suction and 1 inch discharge, with a 60 Hz, 115/230 V capacitor-start single-phase motor and built-in overload protection. The unit is stainless steel shaft with a cast-iron body and a 30/50 PSI pressure switch as standard. The J5S is positioned as a compact, efficient option for moderate flows, balancing efficiency with a modest footprint and weight.
Performance-wise, the J5S delivers up to 16.5 GPM with a maximum head around 25 feet, which suits small households or limited well depth scenarios. The smaller motor size reduces energy consumption and thermal load, but it also means headroom is limited for multi-story homes or higher vertical lift. The pump’s clock-wise rotation when viewed from the motor end and UL778 listing reflect standard industry traits, but users should note the potential water within the pump from factory testing. This model excels in cost-conscious builds where modest GPM is acceptable, and it benefits from Goulds’ reputation for reliability in basic well systems.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight 0.5 HP design
- Low energy consumption relative to higher HP models
- UL778 listed for safety and reliability
- Built-in overload with automatic reset
- Presets plus stainless steel shaft for durability
Cons
- Limited flow (up to 16.5 GPM) and head (approx. 25 ft)
- Premium features less robust than 1 HP premium models
- Highest price within this subcategory among the five options
3. WAYNE SWS50-1/2 HP Cast Iron Shallow Jet Well Pump – Up to 375 Gallons Per Hour – Heavy Duty Shallow Well Pump
- Brand: Wayne
- Manufacturer: Wayne
Overview: Wayne’s SWS50 is a 1/2 HP shallow well jet pump designed for wells up to 25 ft, featuring a cast-iron volute and a dedicated priming port. It offers dual-voltage capability (115V/230V) with a factory default of 115V, and a 1” NPT discharge with 1-1/4” NPT suction. A pre-set 30/50 PSI pressure switch is included, and the pump ships with a 3-year manufacturer warranty, signaling solid long-term support for residential use. The Wayne brand is known for practical, value-oriented pumps that emphasize reliability and serviceability.
In practice, the SWS50 is well-suited for small households with modest water needs and shallow well depth. The 375 GPH (approx. 6.25 GPM) figure is a more conservative theoretical flow rate; real-world performance depends on suction lift and header pressure. The heavy-duty cast iron construction helps durability under cycling demand, and Wayne’s US assembly adds a perception of domestic reliability. This model shines for users who want a straightforward, dependable 1/2 HP option with strong compatibility for typical home well systems and a reasonable warranty period.
Pros
- Reasonable price for a 1/2 HP cast-iron jet pump
- Dual voltage (115V/230V) for flexib le installations
- 3-year warranty indicates strong support
- Dedicated priming port aids maintenance
- Universal 1” discharge and 1-1/4” suction piping
Cons
- Maximum flow around 6 GPM is modest for larger households
- Limited head potential compared to premium 1 HP models
- Some users may prefer a larger motor for future expansion
4. Red Lion PumpWorks 1/2 HP
- Brand: Red Lion
- Manufacturer: Red Lion
Overview: The PWJET50 is Red Lion’s budget-conscious 1/2 HP shallow well jet pump with 7.4 GPM at 30 PSI. It uses a cast-iron casing with a glass-filled thermoplastic impeller and diffuser, and it supports dual voltage (115/230V). It includes a factory preset 30/50 PSI switch but notes the pressure gauge is not included. The unit is designed for wells down to 25 feet and targets cottages or homes with minimal water needs, offering a cost-effective entry into the shallow-well category.
Performance-wise, the PWJET50 emphasizes value rather than raw flow. With a 7.4 GPM rating, it best serves homes with one bathroom or limited simultaneous use. The max head is 145 ft, and the max pressure is 63 PSI, which is adequate for most small homes but will show limits if multiple fixtures are used simultaneously or if long piping runs cause pressure drop. The dual-voltage capability provides installation flexibility, and the lighter weight (about 20 pounds) simplifies mounting. Overall, this model is ideal for budget-minded buyers who need a dependable shallow-well option without frills.
Pros
- Very affordable entry point into shallow well pumping
- Dual voltage operation
- Cast-iron housing with durable impeller/diffuser
- Lightweight and compact for easy mounting
- 30/50 pressure switch standard
Cons
- Low maximum flow (7.4 GPM) limits simultaneous-use scenarios
- Pressure gauge not included
- Lower overall feature set compared to premium models
5. Red Lion RL-SWJ100 1 HP
- Brand: Red Lion
- Manufacturer: Red Lion
Overview: The RL-SWJ100 is Red Lion’s 1 HP, 17 GPM dual-voltage shallow well jet pump, designed for 115/230V operation with a 30/50 pressure switch and a robust cast iron construction. It targets households needing higher GPM than the 1/2 HP options without stepping up to a premium 23 GPM model. The unit’s 1-1/4 inch suction and 1 inch discharge match standard residential piping, and it supports a maximum pressure of 74 PSI, indicating solid performance for modest multi-fixture use.
In practice, the RL-SWJ100 delivers a balanced performance suitable for mid-sized homes or cottages with a heavier water demand than the 7.4 GPM option but without the footprint of a premium 23 GPM pump. The 1 HP motor draws 13.2 A at 115V or 6.6 A at 230V, which translates to reasonable energy use for daily operation. The unit’s 2-year manufacturer’s warranty provides basic assurance, though it may not match the longer warranty periods offered by some premium models. This pump is a versatile choice for those who want more headroom and flow than the budget PWJET50 but aren’t ready for the top-end 23 GPM Red Lion model or a Goulds solution.
Pros
- Strong mid-range 17 GPM performance
- Dual voltage (115/230V) for flexibility
- Solid cast-iron construction
- Higher max pressure (74 PSI) than budget options
- Relatively compact for a 1 HP pump
Cons
- Only 17 GPM, which is below the 23 GPM premium option
- Standard 2-year warranty is shorter than some competitors
- Not as feature-rich as premium Goulds or Wayne models
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about shallow well jet pumpss to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final thoughts: If you need maximum head and flow for a larger home with multiple fixtures, the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM is the standout premium option.
For compact, efficiency-focused installations, Goulds J5S offers a compact alternative with solid performance for limited needs. Wayne SWS50 lies in the middle, providing dependable performance with a practical warranty.
For tight budgets and smaller loads, Red Lion PWJET50 delivers essential functionality at the lowest cost, while Red Lion RL-SWJ100 serves as a balanced mid-range choice with higher head and 17 GPM. Consider your well depth, peak usage, and electrical constraints to pick the best match..