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10 Best Shallow Well Pumps 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Red Lion RJS-75-PREM 3/4 HP, 16 GPM, 115/230 Volt, Premium Cast Iron Shallow Well Jet Pump, Red, 602207

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,472
Pressure Switch Setting
Material and Build Quality
Noise Level

Most important from
1396 reviews

Pressure Switch Setting
Quiet operation and smooth performance provide the house with 60 psi of water pressure, which is more than sufficient.
Material and Build Quality
Solid construction and reliable performance make this pump a great quality choice worth recommending.
Noise Level
Quiet operation and smooth performance provide the house with 60 psi of water pressure, which is more than sufficient.
Installation and Maintenance
Proper winterization is crucial to prevent issues like cracked pump necks; the pump performs flawlessly when maintained well.

The Red Lion RJS-75-PREM 3/4 HP Shallow Well Jet Pump offers solid performance for shallow wells with its 3/4 horsepower motor and a maximum flow rate of 16 gallons per minute (GPM). This pump is designed to handle a maximum lifting height of 25 feet, making it suitable for most residential shallow well applications. The pump features a rugged cast iron casing for durability, complemented by a glass-filled thermoplastic impeller and diffuser, ensuring long-lasting performance and high efficiency.

The dual voltage capability (115 or 230 volts) adds flexibility, though users must ensure proper matching with their power source. The factory pre-set 30/50 pressure switch and included pressure gauge make it easy to monitor and maintain optimal water pressure, with a working maximum pressure of 50 PSI. Installation and maintenance are relatively straightforward, thanks to the included manual and components. However, the pump’s weight (38.2 pounds) may require some additional effort during installation.

Despite minor issues, the Red Lion RJS-75-PREM is a reliable and durable choice for those needing a shallow well pump. Its heavy-duty motor and high build quality make it a worthwhile investment for both amateur and professional use.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,472
Pressure Switch Setting
Material and Build Quality
Noise Level

Most important from
1396 reviews

Pressure Switch Setting
Quiet operation and smooth performance provide the house with 60 psi of water pressure, which is more than sufficient.
Material and Build Quality
Solid construction and reliable performance make this pump a great quality choice worth recommending.
Noise Level
Quiet operation and smooth performance provide the house with 60 psi of water pressure, which is more than sufficient.
Installation and Maintenance
Proper winterization is crucial to prevent issues like cracked pump necks; the pump performs flawlessly when maintained well.
#2

AQUASTRONG 1.5 HP Shallow Well Jet/Centrifugal Pump, 4250 GPH, 115/230V, Durable Cast Iron Booster Pump for Lawn Sprinkler, Garden Irrigation

Rating
8.5
Flow Rate (GPM)
Pressure Switch Setting
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
278 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
The pump offers a quiet operation and delivers a larger flow compared to previous models.
Pressure Switch Setting
The centrifugal switch can be problematic, leading to issues like the pump locking up and tripping breakers.
Material and Build Quality
The cast iron construction is a significant upgrade over thermoplastic models, offering higher quality and reliability.
Noise Level
The pump offers a quiet operation and delivers a larger flow compared to previous models.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is straightforward, especially with quick connectors for both inlet and outlet pump piping.

The AQUASTRONG 1.5 HP Shallow Well Jet/Centrifugal Pump is designed for effective irrigation, including lawn sprinklers and garden systems. With a powerful 1.5 horsepower motor, it delivers a high flow rate of 4250 gallons per hour (GPH), making it suitable for substantial water requirements. The pump's maximum lifting height of 108 feet ensures it can handle various irrigation setups. The build quality is robust, thanks to its durable cast iron construction, which promises long-term use and reliability.

Additionally, the pump includes an enhanced impeller and diffuser, which contribute to its high efficiency and water flow capacity. A notable feature is its automatic thermal overload protector, which helps prevent overheating and extends the pump's life, reducing maintenance worries. The dual voltage capability (115/230V), preset at 115V, adds to the pump's versatility and ease of installation.

However, at nearly 57 pounds, the pump is relatively heavy, which might pose some challenges during installation. Also, as a corded electric device, it requires a reliable power source, which could limit its placement options. The AQUASTRONG pump is well-suited for those needing a durable and high-capacity irrigation solution, particularly for larger gardens or lawns. It balances performance with safety features, making it a worthwhile consideration for anyone in need of a reliable shallow well pump.

Rating
8.5
Flow Rate (GPM)
Pressure Switch Setting
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
278 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
The pump offers a quiet operation and delivers a larger flow compared to previous models.
Pressure Switch Setting
The centrifugal switch can be problematic, leading to issues like the pump locking up and tripping breakers.
Material and Build Quality
The cast iron construction is a significant upgrade over thermoplastic models, offering higher quality and reliability.
Noise Level
The pump offers a quiet operation and delivers a larger flow compared to previous models.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is straightforward, especially with quick connectors for both inlet and outlet pump piping.
#3

Red Lion RJS-50-PREM 1/2 HP, 12 GPM, 115/230 Volt, Premium Cast Iron Shallow Well Jet Pump, Red, 602206

Rating
8.2
Flow Rate (GPM)
Pressure Switch Setting
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
1396 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Drawing from a point 23 feet in the ground, this pump delivers great suction and output, perfect for watering the lawn and washing cars.
Pressure Switch Setting
The pressure switch can be adjusted from the factory setting of 30-50 psi to 40-60 psi with ease.
Material and Build Quality
Despite some reports of broken pump necks, proper winterization can prevent these issues. Adding two-part epoxy to the pump head as a precaution has worked well.
Noise Level
The pump is quiet, runs smoothly, and provides our house with 60 psi of water pressure, which is plenty of pressure and volume.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation and maintenance are straightforward, but ensuring correct setup is crucial to avoid potential issues.

The Red Lion RJS-50-PREM is a reliable and powerful shallow well pump that's well-suited for homeowners and small-scale water needs. It offers a 1/2 horsepower motor capable of delivering up to 12 gallons per minute (GPM), which is efficient for most shallow well applications. The pump can operate on either 115 or 230 volts, providing flexibility depending on your power source. Its sturdy cast iron build ensures durability and longevity, while the glass-filled thermoplastic impeller and diffuser add to its robustness.

The factory pre-set 30/50 pressure switch enables a working maximum pressure of 50 PSI, making it suitable for various home water systems. The maximum lifting height of 150 feet is quite impressive for a shallow well pump and adds to its versatility. However, the pump's noise level may be higher due to the heavy-duty motor, which could be a consideration for noise-sensitive environments. Installation and maintenance are relatively straightforward, but as with any well pump, ensuring correct setup is essential to avoid potential issues.

Additionally, the pump’s weight of 30.8 pounds might require assistance during installation. With a 3-year manufacturer warranty, the Red Lion RJS-50-PREM stands as a reliable choice for both amateur and professional users. Its durable materials and effective performance make it a solid investment for your shallow well needs, though the noise level and weight should be taken into consideration.

Rating
8.2
Flow Rate (GPM)
Pressure Switch Setting
Material and Build Quality

Most important from
1396 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Drawing from a point 23 feet in the ground, this pump delivers great suction and output, perfect for watering the lawn and washing cars.
Pressure Switch Setting
The pressure switch can be adjusted from the factory setting of 30-50 psi to 40-60 psi with ease.
Material and Build Quality
Despite some reports of broken pump necks, proper winterization can prevent these issues. Adding two-part epoxy to the pump head as a precaution has worked well.
Noise Level
The pump is quiet, runs smoothly, and provides our house with 60 psi of water pressure, which is plenty of pressure and volume.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation and maintenance are straightforward, but ensuring correct setup is crucial to avoid potential issues.

Buying Guide for the Best Shallow Well Pumps

Choosing the right shallow-well pump is crucial for ensuring a reliable water supply for your home or garden. Shallow-well pumps are designed to draw water from a depth of up to 25 feet, making them ideal for wells that are not too deep. When selecting a shallow-well pump, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure that the pump you choose will meet your water supply requirements effectively.
Horsepower (HP)Horsepower measures the power output of the pump's motor. This spec is important because it determines how efficiently the pump can draw water from the well. Shallow-well pumps typically range from 0.5 HP to 1.5 HP. For small households or gardens, a pump with 0.5 to 0.75 HP is usually sufficient. For larger households or higher water demands, a pump with 1 HP or more may be necessary. Consider your water usage needs to determine the appropriate horsepower for your pump.
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 demand. Shallow-well pumps typically offer flow rates between 5 to 25 GPM. For basic household needs, a flow rate of 5 to 10 GPM is usually adequate. If you have higher water usage, such as for irrigation or multiple fixtures, you may need a pump with a flow rate of 15 GPM or more. Assess your water usage patterns to choose the right flow rate.
Pressure Switch SettingThe pressure switch setting determines the pressure range at which the pump turns on and off. This is important for maintaining consistent water pressure in your system. Common settings are 20/40 PSI, 30/50 PSI, and 40/60 PSI. For most residential applications, a 30/50 PSI setting is sufficient, providing a good balance of pressure and pump longevity. If you require higher water pressure, consider a 40/60 PSI setting. Choose a pressure switch setting that matches your desired water pressure and system requirements.
Material and Build QualityThe material and build quality of the pump affect its durability and longevity. Shallow-well pumps are typically made from cast iron, stainless steel, or thermoplastic. Cast iron pumps are durable and long-lasting but can be prone to rust. Stainless steel pumps are resistant to corrosion and offer good durability. Thermoplastic pumps are lightweight and resistant to corrosion but may not be as durable as metal pumps. Consider the environmental conditions and your preference for durability when choosing the material and build quality of your pump.
Noise LevelThe noise level of the pump can be an important consideration, especially if the pump is located near living areas. Some pumps are designed to operate more quietly than others. Noise levels are typically measured in decibels (dB). If noise is a concern, look for pumps that are specifically marketed as quiet or have noise-reducing features. Consider the placement of the pump and your tolerance for noise when selecting a pump with an appropriate noise level.
Installation and MaintenanceEase of installation and maintenance is an important factor to consider. Some pumps come with user-friendly installation guides and require minimal maintenance, while others may be more complex. Look for pumps that offer clear instructions and have accessible parts for maintenance. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, choose a pump that is known for its ease of installation and low maintenance requirements. Consider your comfort level with DIY projects and the availability of professional help when making your decision.

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