Head-to-Head Comparison · 2026
Submersible Pump vs.
Jet Pump
Our Verdict
For any drilled well deeper than 25 ft — which is most — a submersible pump is the right choice. The efficiency, reliability, and longer life justify the higher upfront cost. Jet pumps are a legitimate pick only for very shallow wells (driven/sand-point wells, dug wells) or as a backup. When replacing an existing working jet pump on a shallow well, it's fine to stay with jet; when upgrading or replacing on a drilled well, switch to submersible.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Submersible Pump | Jet Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Range | $800 – $3,500 | $300 – $1,500 |
| Average Cost | $1,500 | $900 |
| Duration | Installed: 2-4 hours | Installed: 2-3 hours |
| Longevity | 10-15 years | 8-12 years |
| Best For | Wells deeper than 25 feet — the standard choice for 90%+ of modern residential drilled wells | Shallow wells under 25 feet (shallow-well jet) or as a backup on wells 25-100 ft (deep-well jet) |
| Warranty | 2-5 year manufacturer typical; 1-year labor from installer | 1-2 year manufacturer typical |
Submersible Pump: Pros & Cons
Works at any depth up to 400+ ft — only real option for deep wells
More energy-efficient (pump pushes, doesn't pull)
Quiet — sits underwater in well, no above-ground motor
Better pressure consistency across household fixtures
Less susceptible to losing prime (no need to re-prime after power loss)
Longer average life (10-15 years vs. 8-12 for jet pumps)
Higher upfront cost ($800-$3,500 vs. $300-$1,200 for jet)
Replacement requires pulling the pump from the well (more labor)
Sized to the well depth/yield — incorrect sizing shortens life
Harder to DIY — typically requires a well service tech
Jet Pump: Pros & Cons
Lower upfront cost ($300-$1,500)
Above-ground installation — easier to service/replace
DIY-friendly for experienced homeowners
Simpler mechanics — fewer specialized components
Can prime from well depth up to ~25 ft (shallow) or ~100 ft (deep)
Limited depth — loses prime beyond 25 ft (shallow) or 100 ft (deep)
Less energy-efficient (physically pulls water up vs. pushing)
Noisy — motor is outside and audible
Needs priming after power loss or air leaks
Shorter average life (8-12 years)
Pressure can fluctuate with fixture demand
Not Sure Which Option Is Right?
Get a free assessment from licensed contractors in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace a jet pump with a submersible myself?
Typically no. A submersible pump install requires pulling existing pump (if any), selecting a properly sized submersible with matching wire, drop pipe, and control box, and doing the electrical hookup. Most homeowners hire a well-pump specialist ($200-$800 labor). If you have experience with well work and proper equipment to pull pipe, it's possible but risky.
How do I know what HP pump I need?
Rough guide: 0.5 HP for wells up to 80 ft, 1 HP for 80-200 ft, 1.5-2 HP for 200-400 ft. GPM demand matters too — a typical household needs 8-12 GPM capacity. Your driller or pump installer will size based on well depth + static water level + required flow rate.
Why do submersible pumps fail?
Most common cause: sediment in the water that wears down internal seals and bearings. Second: oversized pumps that short-cycle (turn on/off frequently) from inadequate pressure tank volume. Third: power surges and lightning strikes. A proper pressure tank, sediment filter, and lightning arrestor extend pump life meaningfully.
Ready to Get Started?
Compare quotes from licensed well drilling contractors in your area.