What Is a Shallow Well Pump?
A shallow well pump (also called a shallow well jet pump) draws water from a well or water source that is 25 feet deep or less. It uses suction to pull water up from the well and pressurize it for household use — supplying water to faucets, toilets, irrigation systems, and more.
Unlike deep well pumps, shallow well pumps are installed above ground, making them easier to install, maintain, and service.
How Does a Shallow Well Pump Work?
A shallow well jet pump works by creating a vacuum through a jet (ejector) assembly. Water is drawn up the suction pipe by this vacuum and then pressurized by the pump's impeller before being delivered to your home's plumbing system.
Most shallow well pumps include or work with a pressure tank, which stores pressurized water and reduces pump cycling. A pressure switch automatically turns the pump on and off based on system pressure (typically 20–40 PSI or 30–50 PSI).
Shallow Well Pump vs Deep Well Pump: What's the Difference?
| Feature | Shallow Well Pump | Deep Well Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Max Water Depth | Up to 25 feet | 25–400+ feet |
| Installation Location | Above ground | Submersible (inside well) |
| Maintenance | Easy (above ground) | Requires pulling pump from well |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
| Best For | Shallow wells, cisterns, ponds | Deep drilled wells |
How to Choose the Right Shallow Well Pump
Step 1: Measure Your Well Depth
The most critical factor is the static water level — the distance from the surface to the water. If your water source is within 25 feet of the surface, a shallow well jet pump will work. If it's deeper, you'll need a deep well pump.
Step 2: Calculate Your Flow Requirements (GPH/GPM)
Estimate how much water your household needs:
- 1–2 people: 500–800 GPH is typically sufficient
- 3–4 people: 800–1,200 GPH recommended
- Irrigation or farm use: 1,200–2,000+ GPH may be needed
Step 3: Consider the Total Head (Vertical Lift)
Total head includes the vertical distance the pump must lift water PLUS friction losses in the pipes. A pump rated for 164 FT total head can handle deeper suction lifts and longer pipe runs.
Step 4: Choose the Right Horsepower
- 1 HP: Good for shallow wells up to 25 ft, lower flow needs (865 GPH). Ideal for small households or supplemental water supply.
- 1.5 HP: Higher flow (1,340 GPH), suitable for most family homes, gardens, and light irrigation. Handles greater distances.
- 1.6 HP: Maximum residential performance (1,600–1,700 GPH), ideal for larger properties or higher demand applications.
Shallow Well Pump with Pressure Tank: Why You Need One
A pressure tank is essential for consistent water pressure and pump longevity. Without one, the pump would cycle on and off constantly — wearing out the motor quickly. Benefits include:
- Consistent water pressure throughout your home
- Reduced pump cycling (extends motor life)
- Protection against water hammer (pressure surges)
- Continuous water supply during brief power interruptions
Many FOTING shallow well pumps come pre-paired with a pressure tank, saving you time and ensuring perfect compatibility.
Installation Overview
- Choose the installation location — Ideally in a pump house or basement, protected from freezing temperatures.
- Install the suction pipe — Run a pipe from the well to the pump inlet. Use a foot valve at the bottom to prevent backflow.
- Connect the pressure tank — Install between the pump outlet and your home's plumbing.
- Set the pressure switch — Typically 20/40 PSI (cuts in at 20, cuts out at 40) or 30/50 PSI for higher pressure.
- Prime the pump — Fill the pump with water before first use (most jet pumps require priming).
- Test the system — Check for leaks and verify pressure at fixtures.
Common Problems & Troubleshooting
- Pump won't prime: Check for air leaks in suction line; ensure foot valve is functioning.
- Low water pressure: Check pressure switch settings; inspect for clogged impeller or worn jet assembly.
- Pump runs continuously: Pressure tank may be waterlogged; check tank pre-charge pressure (should be 2 PSI below cut-in pressure).
- No water flow: Verify water level in well; check that suction pipe reaches water.
FOTING Shallow Well Jet Pumps: Our Lineup
JUNHE PUMPS offers a complete range of FOTING shallow well jet pumps built with stainless steel construction for corrosion resistance and long service life. All models operate on standard 115V household current.
- FOTING 1HP Shallow Well Jet Pump 865GPH — Entry-level model for small households and supplemental water supply. Stainless steel construction.
- FOTING 1.5HP Shallow Well Jet Pump 1340GPH — Our most popular model. 164FT max head, ideal for most family homes. Available with pressure tank.
- FOTING 1.5HP Shallow Well Pump with Pressure Tank — Complete system, ready to install. Includes matched pressure tank for consistent water pressure.
- FOTING 1.6HP Shallow Well Jet Pump 1600GPH — Maximum performance for larger properties and higher demand. 180FT max head, stainless steel.
- FOTING 1.6HP Shallow Well Pump 1700GPH with Pressure Tank — Top-of-the-line complete system with 180FT head for demanding applications.
Maintenance Tips
- Check pressure tank air charge annually (should be 2 PSI below cut-in pressure)
- Inspect and clean the jet assembly every 1–2 years
- Winterize the pump if temperatures drop below freezing
- Check all fittings and connections for leaks seasonally
- Replace the foot valve if pump loses prime frequently
Conclusion
A shallow well pump is a reliable, cost-effective solution for homes with water sources within 25 feet of the surface. By choosing the right horsepower and flow rate for your needs, you'll enjoy consistent water pressure and years of trouble-free operation.
Browse our full selection of FOTING shallow well jet pumps — from 1HP starter models to high-performance 1.6HP systems with pressure tanks. Have questions? Contact our team and we'll help you find the perfect pump for your well.