Selecting the ideal water pump, whether a jet pump or a submersible pump, hinges on crucial factors such as well depth, energy efficiency, and maintenance demands. In this blog, not only will we explore the differences between jet pumps vs submersible pumps, but we will also discuss other types of well pumps.
Jet Pump Vs Submersible Pump
There are two primary pump categories submersible well pumps and above-ground, or jet pumps. Let’s understand the difference between an above-ground or jet pump vs a submersible pump:
1. Submersible Well Pump

A submersible well pump is positioned within a water well, submerged beneath the water level, as its name implies. Tailored for use in deep wells exceeding 75 feet, these pumps effectively elevate water through a conduit, delivering it to the storage tank.
Advantages of a Submersible Pump:
- Efficiency: Submerged placement facilitates effective energy usage, ensuring efficient water propulsion.
- Durability: Reduced effort in water transfer translates to enhanced pump longevity.
- Speed: Elimination of priming requirements enables prompt water delivery, saving time.
- Pressure: Offers superior and consistent water pressure.
- Convenience: Portability and noise reduction make them convenient. They occupy no exterior space and operate quietly compared to jet pumps.
Disadvantages of a Submersible Pump:
- Complex Installation: Direct well integration requires professional assistance for proper setup.
- Potential Overheating: Continuous water flow may prevent overheating, but heat buildup within the compartment remains a concern.
- Higher Cost: Purchase and maintenance expenses exceed those of standard pumps.
Cross-Reference: 5HP-AC-Submersible Pump by Tata Power Solar
In this submersible vs above ground well pump comparison, now let’s explore the features of above ground or jet pumps.
2. Above Ground Well Pump or Jet Pump

An above-ground well pump, known as a jet pump, is typically situated either within the house or in a designated well house and utilizes a suction pipe to draw water up through a nozzle using an impeller. Jet pumps are robust due to the higher energy required for water extraction compared to the push mechanism of submersible pumps. They are more suitable for properties with shallow wells or those not exceeding 75 feet in depth.
Advantages of a Jet Pump:
- Steady Water Flow: Ideal for distant well locations, ensuring consistent water delivery.
- Maintenance: These pumps have low maintenance requirements.
- Cost Factor: Cost-effective Solution.
Disadvantages of an Above-Ground Well Pump:
- Priming Requirement: This necessitates the drawing up of water before initiating the water supply, causing a delay in water access.
- Reduced Efficiency: Performance decreases with deeper well placements, while internal motor damage may result from sand, debris, and plant matter infiltration.
- Noise: Proximity to residential areas might lead to annoyance or distraction caused by operational noise.
Also See: 14 Best Solar Pool Pumps Submersible and Above Ground Models
Comparison Table of Jet Pump Vs Submersible Pump
The comparison between the jet pump and the submersible pump is given below in this table:
Features | Submersible Well Pump | Above Ground Well Pump (Jet Pump) |
Ideal for | Deep wells (>75 feet) | Shallow wells (<75 feet) |
Efficiency | High | Lower |
Durability | High | Moderate |
Speed | Fast | Slower |
Pressure | Consistent | May vary |
Convenience | Portable & Quiet | Noisier, less portable |
Installation | Complex | Easier |
Maintenance | Higher | Lower |
Cost | Higher | Lower |
This sums up submersible vs above-ground well pump differences. Now, let’s learn about other types of well pumps.
Also Read: What are the Essential Features in a Solar Pump System?
Other Types Of Well Pumps

As you have understood the difference between a jet pump and a submersible pump, let’s check out some other types of well pumps:
1. Centrifugal Pumps
Centrifugal pumps function as straightforward well pumps, utilizing the kinetic energy of a motor to convey water from one end to the other.
Distinct from submersible well pumps, centrifugal well pumps lack drive seals, preventing corrosion and costly repairs.
These pumps are notably compact, facilitating easy access and maintenance. Moreover, they are comparatively more affordable. However, their limited size restricts their water extraction capacity, making them suitable primarily for shallow wells not exceeding 25 feet.
2. Shallow Well Pumps
A shallow well pump is specifically engineered to extract water from shallow sources, such as wells or reservoirs, commonly utilized in residential and small-scale settings where the water source is close to the surface.
These pumps are generally self-priming, enabling them to draw water and create the necessary suction without manual intervention. This feature proves advantageous during fluctuating water levels or after power outages.
Available in diverse sizes and capacities, shallow well pumps cater to various water demands, including residential water supply, garden irrigation, and small-scale agricultural requirements.
Also, take a look at these Top 10 Solar Pump Companies in India.
Choosing between a jet pump and a submersible pump involves evaluating key aspects like noise tolerance, well depth, and installation convenience. Jet pumps are cost-effective for shallow wells, while submersible pumps are durable and operate quietly for deeper well applications