Common Well Pump Technologies

Submersible pumps

Both shallow and deep wells, repressurization from holding tanks and radon systems

Advantages: quiet, efficient, capable of pumping from great depths (1000+ feet), relatively easy to install, no priming required,easier to service than other technologies

Disadvantages: represent slightly higher level of initial investment, should not be used in swimming areas

Jet Pumps

Both shallow and deep wells (pumping depths limited to approximately 100' without excessive expense), point wells repressurization from holding tanks, pumping from open bodies of water

Advantages: Moderate cost savings, can work on driven point wells, can be used in swimming areas (when properly installed)

Disadvantages: require priming, less efficient than submersibles, can be noisy, can be difficult to diagnose system problems, deep well applications require 2 pipes in well and remote jet assembly

Hand pumps

Pitcher pumps can raise water 20' with human effort. Other hand pumps with submerged cylinders can pump water from greater depths

Advantages: Pitcher pumps are inexpensive. Can be operated without electricity.

Disadvantages: Need human power, seldom can be configured to provide pressurized water, deep-well hand pumps can be costly to install