When it comes to choosing the best submersible well pump, many homeowners find themselves unsure where to start, especially when faced with dozens of pump options and performance specs to sift through.
If you’re working with a deep well or off-grid system, the pump you choose affects how well water flows, how often you need repairs, and how much you spend over time. From the basics to the details, here’s what to look for when choosing your submersible well pump.
How Submersible Well Pumps Work
A submersible pump operates beneath the waterline inside the well. While surface pumps pull water from above, submersible pumps do the job from below by pushing it to the surface.
Since they stay underwater, these pumps are primed automatically and are less prone to issues like cavitation, which happens when air disrupts water flow inside the pump itself. Homeowners with deep wells often prefer submersible pumps because they’re quiet and dependable.
The Specs That Matter
Selecting the right pump begins with grasping a few important specifications. To start, gallons per minute (GPM) determines how much water the pump can deliver to meet household needs. Most homes require somewhere between 5 and 20 GPM to effectively move water from wells.
Total Dynamic Head (TDH) is the sum of the vertical lift and friction loss through piping; residential setups usually fall between 80 and 400 feet.
Motor horsepower affects how much water the pump can move and how high it can push the water up. Most residential systems use ½ to 1½ HP motors, with voltage and wiring configuration also having an impact.
A 2-wire pump is simpler and typically runs on 120 volts, but repairs are harder since its components are sealed underground. A 3-wire system, usually 230 volts, keeps the start capacitor above ground in a control box, making troubleshooting easier.
Material quality affects lifespan: stainless steel casings and specialty impellers stand up well to sand and mineral-heavy water. Some advanced models even include features like dry-run protection, soft-start motors, thermal safeguards, and sand-flushing designs, each adding to the durability of the system.
How to Size a Pump for Your Home
Sizing a pump begins with measuring the static and pumping water levels of your well. To get a reliable TDH measurement, operate the pump for an hour and then take your readings.
Next, calculate how much water you use during peak times. Bathrooms typically use 5 GPM, kitchens and laundry another 5 GPM, and irrigation adds more based on system type. You should add a 20% buffer to that number to avoid shortfalls.
Once your flow needs and TDH are known, go ahead and check the pump curves of your manufacturer. These charts help match your performance requirements with the most efficient operating range for your pump. Staying within 70 to 100% of the best efficiency point maintains better energy use and longer pump life.
If you’re planning future irrigation, consider upsizing the motor instead of the pump. Swapping a ½ HP motor for a ¾ HP motor later is more effective than installing an oversized pump that may short-cycle today.
Top Picks for Different Needs
The market offers standout models across a variety of different price points and use cases. The best submersible well pump for your home depends on where it’s located and your family’s daily water needs.
Grundfos 10SQ05‑160: Premium Residential
The Grundfos 10SQ05‑160 is built for deep wells and demanding homeowners who want long-lasting performance without the hassle. It runs quietly, requires no external control box, and handles up to 600 feet of head on a standard 120 V circuit.
- Soft-start motor helps extend pump life
- Built-in dry-run and over-temperature protection
- Slim 3″ design fits narrow well casings
Goulds 7GS05: Sand-Resistant Classic
With a floating impeller system and 304 stainless steel build, this model stands out for performance and durability. The model has over 50 years of field use and continues to be a go-to choice for wells with abrasive water.
- Ideal for sandy, iron-rich, or coastal water
- Corrosion-resistant shell improves longevity
- Proven performance across decades of use
Hallmark MA0414X‑7: Budget 1 HP Pick
You’ll get strong performance from this pump, even though it’s priced for entry-level users. It’s a good fit for shallow to mid-depth wells where easy access is available for future maintenance.
- Full stainless jacket for corrosion resistance
- Compact design supports 1 HP output
- Low upfront cost for budget-conscious setups
Red Lion RL12G05: Reliable Mid-Range
A strong all-around choice, the RL12G05 balances cost, lifespan, and performance. It works well in average-depth wells and comes ready with a 3-wire control box for easier servicing.
- Reported 11-year average lifespan
- Delivers 12 GPM at 250 ft
- Ships with control box included
Grundfos SQFlex 6 SQF‑3: Hybrid Solar Ready
Perfect for cabins or off-grid systems, the SQFlex accepts both AC and DC power sources and automatically switches based on availability. It’s highly efficient and built for remote, variable power environments.
- Runs on solar or grid power interchangeably
- Handles 30–300 V DC and 90–240 V AC inputs
- Low-maintenance solution for hybrid systems
Lorentz Ecdrive 1800-hr: Off-Grid High Flow
Designed for solar use, the Lorentz Ecdrive delivers impressive flow rates for remote agricultural or livestock applications. Its modular controller stays above ground for easier access and maintenance.
- Delivers up to 20,900 gallons per hour in larger setups
- Solar-optimized centrifugal performance
- Easy-to-service controller mounts topside
Choosing the Right Pump Starts with the Right Support
Finding the best submersible well pump isn’t about chasing the highest price or most features. Rather, it’s about selecting a pump that matches the particular well depth, water usage, and long-term goals of your home.
Tri-County Pump Service has spent over 30 years helping homeowners and property managers across Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia get the most from their water systems. We pride ourselves in educating our customers and making sure they feel confident in their product selection and our service.
Need help figuring out which submersible pump fits your home or property? Give us a call at 1-(301)-432-0330, use our online contact form, or schedule a service directly through our website.
