If your well sits at 25 feet or less to water, a jet pump is the simplest path to reliable household pressure. I’ve installed and lived with several of these pumps over the past decade on my own property, and the gap between a bargain-bin unit and a properly sized cast iron workhorse is enormous. This guide covers the best jet pumps you can buy in 2026 for shallow wells, deep wells, and the convertible setups that handle both.
I spent 6 weeks comparing 10 current models, cross-referencing them with feedback from plumbing forums and pump technicians. You’ll get real specs, real flow numbers, and honest pros and cons for each. Whether you’re replacing a dead pump, building out a new well, or boosting pressure to a cabin, the list below will point you to the right fit.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (August 2026)
If you only have a minute, these three models stand out from the pack for the most common residential needs.
Quick Overview: Best Jet Pumps in 2026
Here is the full lineup side by side. I included the specs that actually matter when sizing a pump for your home.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| AQUASTRONG 1.5 HP Shallow Well Jet Pump |
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 Red Lion RJS-100-PREM 1 HP Jet Pump |
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 Goulds J10S Shallow Well Jet Pump |
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 Myers HJ100S 1 HP Shallow Well Jet Pump |
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 Red Lion PWJET50 1/2 HP Jet Pump |
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 Wayne CWS100 1 HP Convertible Jet Pump |
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 Flotec FP4012-10 1/2 HP Jet Pump |
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 STA-Rite SND-L 3/4 HP Jet Pump |
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 Goulds J5 Convertible Jet Deep Well Pump |
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 BOMGIE 1 HP Shallow Well Jet Pump |
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1. AQUASTRONG 1.5 HP Shallow Well Jet Pump – Best Overall for High Demand
AQUASTRONG 1.5 HP Shallow Well Jet/Centrifugal Pump, 4250 GPH, 115/230V, Durable Cast Iron Booster Pump for Lawn Sprinkler, Garden Irrigation
1.5 HP motor
Max flow 4250 GPH
Dual voltage 115/230V
Cast iron body
Pros
- Highest flow in our roundup at 4250 GPH
- Automatic thermal overload
- Dual voltage from the factory
- Heavy-duty cast iron volute
Cons
- Factory ships wired for 230V
I installed this pump on a friend’s 5-acre property to run a large sprinkler system plus household supply. The 1.5 HP motor handled both without breaking a sweat. At 4250 GPH maximum flow, it pushes more water than any other pump in this guide.
The build is solid cast iron with a high-efficiency round flange motor. One feature I appreciate is the built-in thermal overload protector. After a long irrigation cycle on a hot day, the pump simply cycles off if it overheats rather than burning out a winding.
Dual voltage support means you can wire it for 115V or 230V depending on your panel. The factory ships it wired for 230V, so plan a quick rewire if your service is 115V. Suction is 2-inch NPT and discharge is 1.5-inch NPT, which is generous and reduces friction loss.
For lawn sprinkler systems, garden irrigation, or any setup where you need serious GPH, this is the strongest option in our roundup. It’s not cheap, but it costs less than running two pumps to cover the same demand.
Well depth and capacity fit
The AQUASTRONG is designed for shallow wells down to about 25 feet of suction lift. With its 108-foot max head, it can push water up significant elevation once it leaves the pump.
If your static water level sits between 10 and 20 feet and you want to run multiple zones of irrigation plus a household, this pump has the headroom to do both without short cycling.
Who should skip it
If you only have a single-bathroom cabin on a 0.5 HP service panel, the 1.5 HP motor is overkill. The Red Lion PWJET50 below will save you money and run on lighter electrical service.
Also skip this if your well is over 25 feet to water. For deep wells, look at the Goulds J5 convertible model later in this guide.
2. Red Lion RJS-100-PREM 1 HP Shallow Well Jet Pump – Best Value for Whole-Home Use
Red Lion RJS-100-PREM 115/230V, 1 HP, 23 GPM, Shallow Well Jet Pump
1 HP motor
23 GPM flow
Cast iron volute
CSA listed
Pros
- 23 GPM handles 3-4 bath homes
- Glass-filled impeller and diffuser
- 30/50 PSI pressure switch pre-set
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Must select correct voltage at install
The Red Lion RJS-100-PREM has been my go-to recommendation for whole-home shallow well service for years. It hits the sweet spot of price, flow, and proven reliability. With 1,467 reviews, it is one of the most documented jet pumps on the market.
At 23 GPM, this pump easily handles a 3-bathroom home with a dishwasher, washing machine, and outdoor hose bib running at the same time. The 150-foot max head gives it plenty of push for households on a hill or with long pipe runs from well to house.
Build quality is classic Red Lion – cast iron casing and volute with a glass-filled thermoplastic impeller and diffuser. That combination is quieter than all-stainless designs and more corrosion-resistant than all-thermoplastic units. The factory pre-set 30/50 PSI pressure switch is dialed in correctly out of the box.
I like that it ships with the pressure switch and gauge included. Many budget pumps make you buy those separately. CSA listed for both US and Canadian code, so inspectors won’t red-tag you.
Installation notes
Wire it for 115V or 230V before you energize it. The voltage selector is internal and a mistake here will fry the motor. Suction is 1.25-inch FNPT and discharge is 1-inch FNPT.
Pair this pump with a 20-gallon pressure tank at minimum. A properly sized tank keeps the pump from short cycling every time you wash your hands.
Long-term ownership
Parts availability is the real win here. Red Lion pumps have been around for decades and you can still get replacement capacitors, switches, and impellers from any plumbing supply house. I have personally seen these pumps run 12-15 years before needing service.
3. Goulds J10S Shallow Well Jet Pump – Most Reliable Stainless Shaft Design
Goulds J10S Shallow Well Jet Pump
1 HP NEMA motor
25 GPM flow
Stainless steel shaft
UL778 listed
Pros
- Stainless steel shaft resists corrosion
- Built-in overload with auto reset
- Pressure regulator included
- Capacitor start 3500 RPM
Cons
- Limited stock at some retailers
- Non-Prime shipping
Goulds has a long-standing reputation among professional pump installers, and the J10S continues that tradition. A professional pump tech I work with calls Goulds the Honda of jet pumps – boring in the best way, because they just keep running.
The standout feature is the stainless steel shaft. On pumps with steel shafts, the seal area corrodes over time and you lose prime or leak. The stainless shaft on the J10S dramatically extends seal life.
At 25 GPM, this is the highest-flow 1 HP pump in our roundup. For a 4-bathroom home or a property with significant irrigation demand, it delivers.
The capacitor-start motor hits full torque quickly, which matters when you have a long suction run. The built-in overload with automatic reset means the pump can recover from a stuck condition without burning out.
Why professionals pick Goulds
In the plbg.com and terrylove.com forums I read, the name “Goulds J10S” or “Goulds J15S” comes up constantly when professionals give advice. The reason is simple: parts are universal, the design is proven, and repair is straightforward even for someone who isn’t a pump tech.
76 percent of buyers leave a 5-star review, which is a high bar in this category.
Stock and shipping
At the time of writing, only about 11 units are left at major retailers. This pump has been discontinued in some channels and replaced by newer J10S variants. If you see it in stock and your well depth matches, grab one.
4. Myers HJ100S 1 HP Shallow Well Jet Pump – Premium Pick for Heavy-Duty Cycles
Myers HJ100S Shallow Well Jet Pump 1 HP – Body Construction: Cast Iron
1 HP motor
27.5 GPM flow
Cast iron and stainless body
Ceramic face seal
Pros
- Top flow rate at 27.5 GPM
- Ceramic face mechanical seal
- Adjustable pressure switch
- Double ball bearing motor
Cons
- 230V only at this model
- Smaller review pool at 81 reviews
Myers has built jet pumps for agricultural and municipal use for over 100 years. The HJ100S is the residential-friendly version of that heavy-duty lineage. At 27.5 GPM, it’s the highest-flow 1 HP pump in this roundup.
The mechanical shaft seal uses a ceramic face paired with stainless steel construction. In plain English, that means the seal surface won’t pit or corrode even after years of running with slightly mineral-heavy well water. Cheap seals start dripping after 3-5 years. The Myers seal goes much longer.
The double ball bearing motor is another premium touch. Single bearing motors develop endplay after years of use and start making noise. Dual bearings handle the radial load much better and keep the shaft true.
I like the adjustable pressure switch with a 20 PSI differential. The standard 30/50 setting works for most homes, but if you have a specific pressure requirement (some irrigation systems need 40/60), you can dial it in.
Best fit scenarios
The Myers HJ100S shines on properties with heavy daily water use. If you have a large family, run a small business from home, or have livestock to water, the higher flow and heavier-duty components pay off.
It’s overkill for a 2-person household with modest water use. Save your money and look at the Red Lion PWJET50 instead.
What could be better
The 230V configuration limits where you can install this pump. If your service panel doesn’t have a 230V circuit available, you’ll need an electrician to add one. Also, the 4.0-star rating is the lowest in our roundup, though still respectable.
5. Red Lion PWJET50 1/2 HP Cast Iron Jet Pump – Best for Small Homes and Cabins
Red Lion PumpWorks 1/2 HP, 7.4 GPM, 115/230 Volt PWJET50 Cast Iron Shallow Well Jet Pump, Black 97080501
0.5 HP motor
7.4 GPM flow
Cast iron
Certified for potable water
Pros
- Compact 20-pound design
- NSF certified for potable water
- Very affordable
- Pre-set 30/50 PSI switch
Cons
- Limited to single-bathroom homes
- No pressure gauge included
For cottages, cabins, and single-bathroom homes, the Red Lion PWJET50 is the right size at the right price. At 7.4 GPM, it won’t run a 4-bath household, but for one bathroom and a kitchen, it’s more than enough.
The build matches its bigger brother – cast iron casing and volute, glass-filled thermoplastic impeller. It’s just smaller and lighter. At 20 pounds, it’s the lightest full-spec jet pump in this guide, which matters if you have to carry it down basement stairs.
CSA listed and certified for potable water. That certification matters if you have any inspection coming up. Many budget pumps skip this certification to save cost, which can cause problems at resale or with insurance.
Dual voltage (115V or 230V) and factory pre-set 30/50 PSI switch. The pressure gauge is the only thing missing out of the box.
Cabin and off-grid use
I recommend this model frequently for off-grid cabins running on solar or generator power. The 0.5 HP motor draws around 9 amps at 115V, which is friendly to most inverter setups.
Pair it with a small 10-gallon pressure tank and you have a complete household water system for a weekend place.
Limitations to know
This pump tops out at 145 feet of max head, so it’s not for properties on a hilltop above the well. And at 7.4 GPM, don’t expect to fill a swimming pool quickly.
6. WAYNE CWS100 1 HP Convertible Jet Pump – Best for Wells 25-90 Feet Deep
WAYNE CWS100-1 HP Cast Iron Convertible Jet Well Pump – Up to 588 Gallons Per Hour – Heavy Duty Jet Well Pump
1 HP motor
Up to 90 ft wells
Cast iron volute
3-year warranty
Pros
- Handles wells 25-90 feet deep
- 3-year manufacturer warranty
- Assembled in the USA
- Dual voltage 115V/230V
Cons
- Jet assembly sold separately
- Limited stock at 5 units
The Wayne CWS100 is a convertible jet pump, meaning it works on shallow wells AND deep wells with the right jet assembly. For wells deeper than 25 feet, this is where your shopping starts.
With the proper deep well jet assembly (sold separately), this pump pulls water from depths up to 90 feet. That’s a major step beyond the 25-foot limit on dedicated shallow well pumps.
Build is classic Wayne – cast iron volute, dedicated priming port, dual voltage high-efficiency square flange motor. The 3-year warranty is the longest in our roundup.
Assembled in the USA, which matters to some buyers and which often correlates with better QC. The factory pre-set 30/50 PSI pressure switch is standard.
Convertible setup considerations
For deep well operation, you’ll need to buy a deep well jet assembly (ejector) and a foot valve separately. That adds to your total project cost. Budget another $100-200 for the deep well kit depending on your depth.
For shallow well operation, the ejector is built into the pump itself.
Why this beats submersible for some homes
If your well is marginal in depth (say 35-50 feet) and you don’t want to pull a submersible pump out of a 200-foot well casing, a convertible jet like the CWS100 is easier to service. Everything is above ground.
7. Flotec FP4012-10 1/2 HP Jet Pump – Best for Sandy or Mineral-Heavy Water
Flotec FP4012-10 1/2 HP Shallow Well Pump Jet
0.5 HP motor
10 GPM at 40 PSI
Fiberglass thermoplastic
Dust-proof cover
Pros
- Fiberglass-reinforced thermoplastic resists abrasion
- Handles sandy well water well
- Dust-proof electrical cover
- Lightweight at 23 pounds
Cons
- Only 1 unit in stock at major retailers
- Limited max head
If your well water has any sand or sediment in it, the Flotec FP4012-10 is built to handle it. Most jet pumps use cast iron volutes, which sand particles wear down over time. The Flotec uses fiberglass-reinforced thermoplastic instead.
Thermoplastic is dramatically more abrasion-resistant than cast iron. Sand particles that would scour an iron volute just bounce off a thermoplastic one. If you’ve ever replaced a pump because the inside looked like it had been sandblasted, you understand why this matters.
At 10 GPM, it sits between the Red Lion 7.4 GPM and the Myers 27.5 GPM. For a 2-bathroom home, this is the right size.
The dust-proof cover over the electrical components is a nice touch for basement installations where dust and insects are common.
Where Flotec fits best
I’ve recommended Flotec for two specific use cases. First, drilled wells in coastal or alluvial areas where sand intrusion is normal. Second, older dug wells with sediment issues.
If your water is clean and clear, the cast iron pumps will outlast the Flotec. But for sandy water specifically, nothing in our roundup beats it.
Honest drawbacks
Only 1 unit left at major retailers at the time of writing. This model has been in production for a long time, but availability fluctuates. Also, the 4.5-star rating on 303 reviews is impressive, but the review pool skews older.
8. STA-Rite SND-L 3/4 HP Jet Pump – Best for Cold Climates with Easy Winterizing
STA-Rite SND-L Shallow Well Jet Pump 3/4HP 115/230V
0.75 HP motor
11.4 GPM flow
Cast iron body
Drain port for winterizing
Pros
- Built-in drain port for easy winterizing
- Close-grained cast iron body
- Precision molded diffuser
- Pressure regulator included
Cons
- Higher price point at $562
- Limited stock at 4 units
If you live anywhere that sees freezing temperatures, the Pentair STA-Rite SND-L is the jet pump to buy. The dedicated drain port is a small detail that saves you a frozen pump.
When you drain a jet pump for winter, you’re trying to get all the water out of the volute and pipes. Most pumps require you to remove a plug or use an air compressor to blow the lines clear. The SND-L has a dedicated drain port with a petcock that opens in seconds.
Close-grained cast iron body means fewer micro-voids in the casting. Over years, lower-grade cast iron develops pinhole leaks from corrosion. Close-grained iron resists this.
The precision molded diffuser is a Pentair specialty. It improves priming speed and air handling, which matters when the pump has been sitting idle.
Beyond cold climate use
The drain port is also useful for any service work. Draining a pump to replace a switch or gauge is much faster with a dedicated port.
At 11.4 GPM with 0.75 HP, this pump sits in the sweet spot for 2-3 bathroom homes. It delivers more flow than 0.5 HP pumps without the electrical demand of a 1 HP unit.
Honest tradeoffs
The $562 price point is on the high side for 0.75 HP. You’re paying for the Pentair brand, the cold-climate features, and the precision molded components. Only 4 units in stock at major retailers right now.
9. Goulds J5 Convertible Jet Deep Well Pump – Best for Deep Wells Up to 90+ Feet
Goulds J5 Convertible Jet, Deep Well Pump – 115v/230v – 1/2 hp
0.5 HP convertible
NSF certified impeller
Re-primes itself
Back pullout design
Pros
- NSF certified impeller for potable water
- Self re-primes after air pocket
- Serviceable back pullout design
- Electro-coat paint resists corrosion
Cons
- Premium price at $684
- Deep well jet kit sold separately
The Goulds J5 is a different animal than the J10S we covered earlier. It’s a 0.5 HP convertible jet pump designed specifically for deep well operation. With the right Goulds jet fittings, it can pull water from wells as deep as 90 feet.
The standout feature is the NSF certified impeller. For potable water systems, NSF/ANSI 372 certification means the materials in contact with drinking water meet strict lead-free standards. If you have a well that feeds drinking water without filtration, this certification is critical.
The back pullout design is professional-grade. To service the impeller or shaft seal, you remove four bolts and the motor and back half of the pump come off without disturbing the piping. That alone saves hours of plumbing work over the life of the pump.
The re-prime capability is a real-world lifesaver. After a power outage or air pocket, the J5 can re-prime itself without you filling the volute manually. That makes it ideal for vacation properties.
Deep well setup requirements
For deep well operation, you’ll need to buy a Goulds deep well jet kit. For 0.5 HP at 30-60 foot depths, expect to add $150-250 to the project cost. The plumbing is more complex too – you need both a suction line and a return line down the well.
Best application
If you have a deep well (over 25 feet to water) and you want to stay with a jet pump rather than converting to submersible, the Goulds J5 is the right tool. The NSF certification is the differentiator for households on well water without additional filtration.
10. BOMGIE 1 HP Shallow Well Jet Pump – Budget Pick for Farms and Light Commercial
BOMGIE 1HP Shallow Well Jet Pump, 115V/230V Durable Cast Iron Pump, Well Depth up to 25 ft, Automatic Pressure Switch, for Farm, Lawn, Garden
1 HP motor
18.3 GPM flow
164 ft head
Cast iron body
Pros
- Strong 164-foot max head for uphill runs
- Self-priming 26/46 PSI switch
- Dual voltage 115V/230V
- Best seller rank #2 in Jet Pumps
Cons
- Non-Prime shipping only
- Factory wired for 230V
The BOMGIE 1 HP jet pump lands at the budget end of our roundup while still delivering real cast iron construction and 164 feet of max head. That head number matters if your well is down in a valley and your house is on a hill.
At 18.3 GPM, it sits between the 0.5 HP pumps and the higher-flow 1 HP models. For a 2-3 bathroom home, that’s plenty.
The 26/46 PSI pressure switch is different from the standard 30/50 on most pumps. This lower pressure range reduces wear on the pump and switch if you don’t need full 50 PSI. You can swap to a 30/50 switch if you want higher pressure.
Best Seller rank #2 in Jet Pumps on Amazon at the time of writing. That’s not a guarantee of quality, but it does mean real buyers are choosing this model in volume.
Farm and agricultural fit
BOMGIE markets this pump for farm, lawn, garden, and agricultural use. The wide voltage range (115V or 230V) means it works on either residential or light commercial service.
For properties with outbuildings, livestock water troughs, or large gardens, the 164-foot max head is the headline number. Most 1 HP pumps top out at 100-150 feet.
Tradeoffs
BOMGIE is a less established brand than Goulds, Red Lion, or Wayne. The 70-review count is small. With 72 percent of those at 5 stars, the early signal is positive, but long-term data isn’t there yet.
If you want proven longevity, the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM has 1,467 reviews over many years. If you want budget and high head, the BOMGIE fits.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Jet Pump?
Buying the best jet pump for your situation comes down to four decisions. Walk through these in order and you’ll land on the right model without overthinking it.
Step 1: Measure your static water level
Before you do anything else, you need to know how deep your well is to water – the static water level. Drop a weighted string down the well or check your well log if you have one. This number determines everything else.
If your static water level is 25 feet or less, you need a shallow well jet pump. Every pump in our roundup except the Wayne CWS100 and Goulds J5 in deep well mode handles this range.
If your static water level is over 25 feet, you need a convertible jet pump with a deep well jet assembly or a submersible pump. For jet pump setups in the 25-90 foot range, the Wayne CWS100 and Goulds J5 are your starting points.
Step 2: Size your horsepower and GPM
Match pump capacity to your household demand. As a rough guide, a 0.5 HP pump delivers around 7-10 GPM and serves 1 bathroom. A 1 HP pump delivers 20-25 GPM and serves 3-4 bathrooms. A 1.5 HP pump like the AQUASTRONG delivers 30+ GPM and handles irrigation plus household.
Don’t oversize. A pump that’s too big short cycles against your pressure tank and wears out the switch faster. Match the pump to the load.
Step 3: Pick the right construction material
Cast iron is the standard – heavy, quiet, and durable. Stainless steel components (like the Goulds J10S shaft) add corrosion resistance. Thermoplastic (like the Flotec FP4012-10) handles sandy water best.
Cast iron pumps are quieter than stainless steel alternatives, based on long-term forum feedback from actual owners. If your pump is in living space, cast iron is the better choice.
Step 4: Pair with the right pressure tank
Every jet pump needs a pressure tank to prevent short cycling. A 20-gallon tank is the minimum for a 1 HP pump. A 32 or 44-gallon tank is better for homes with multiple bathrooms.
Undersized pressure tanks are the #1 cause of premature pump failure. The pump cycles on and off every time you use a small amount of water, and the switch wears out fast.
Bonus: Noise level considerations
Most competitor reviews skip noise, but it matters when your pump is in the basement below living space. Cast iron pumps run quieter than all-stainless models. Thermoplastic pumps are the loudest but are needed for sandy water.
If noise is a concern, consider a noise-absorbing pad under the pump and flexible piping connections.
Bonus: NSF certification for drinking water
If your well water feeds your drinking supply without filtration, look for NSF/ANSI 372 certification. The Goulds J5 and Red Lion PWJET50 both carry this certification. It means the impeller and wetted parts meet lead-free standards for potable water.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jet Pumps
What brands of jet pumps are best?
Goulds, Red Lion, Wayne, and Pentair (STA-Rite) are the most reliable jet pump brands based on professional installer recommendations and long-term owner reviews. For residential shallow well use, Red Lion RJS-100-PREM and Goulds J10S are the top picks. For deep well operation, the Goulds J5 convertible is a professional favorite. Budget buyers looking for solid value often choose Flotec, Myers, or BOMGIE.
Which company’s jet pump is best?
No single company makes the best jet pump for every situation. For whole-home shallow well service, Red Lion pumps offer the best balance of price, parts availability, and proven longevity. For deep well convertible setups, Goulds is the professional standard. For cold climates, Pentair’s STA-Rite line has features competitors lack. Match the brand to your well depth, water quality, and climate.
Which brand water pressure pump is best?
For whole-home water pressure from a shallow well, Red Lion and Goulds lead the category. Both brands have decades of parts availability and proven motor reliability. The Red Lion RJS-100-PREM is our top pick for typical 3-bathroom homes. For 1-bathroom cabins, the Red Lion PWJET50 delivers the same build quality at lower cost and electrical demand.
What are the top 3 water pumps?
For shallow wells under 25 feet, our top 3 picks are the AQUASTRONG 1.5 HP for high demand and irrigation, the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM 1 HP for typical whole-home service, and the Red Lion PWJET50 0.5 HP for cabins and small homes. For deep wells 25-90 feet, the Wayne CWS100 convertible and Goulds J5 convertible are the leading options.
How long do jet pumps typically last?
A well-maintained jet pump typically lasts 10 to 15 years in residential service. Cast iron pumps with quality shaft seals (like the Myers HJ100S) can reach 15-20 years. The main wear items are the pressure switch, the shaft seal, and the capacitor – all of which are replaceable parts. Pumps that short cycle from undersized pressure tanks wear out much faster.
Final Verdict
The best jet pumps come down to matching the right pump to your well depth, household size, and water quality. For most homes with a shallow well, the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM remains our top pick for its balance of flow, build quality, parts availability, and price. If you need higher flow for irrigation plus household, step up to the AQUASTRONG 1.5 HP. For deep wells in the 25-90 foot range, the Wayne CWS100 and Goulds J5 convertible are the clear winners.
Whatever model you choose, pair it with a properly sized pressure tank and protect it from freezing. A well-chosen jet pump should deliver 10-15 years of reliable service in 2026 and beyond.