Selecting the Correct Shallow Well Pump

[Bob99]

Hi All,

We have a 4 season second home with a shallow well pump. The pump is a poor quality 3/4 HP unit with a shaft seal leak and isn't worth fixing. The plumber was out yesterday and suggested replacing it with a Franklin Versa Jet Pro 1/2 HP which he says will work as well as a 3/4HP pump made by other manufacturers. I think that is what he had on the truck, but I'm not sure if it the right choice.

Franklin also makes a 3/4 and 1 HP model. The distributor has a 1HP model but would have to order a 3/4HP unit. The plumber said if we were to go with the 1HP version, he would recommend wiring it 220V. This means we need to run new wire from the panel to the pump and it would be hooked up directly to a junction box.

The house is a 3 bedroom / 2 bathroom and the only additional supply demand would be to supply a planned underground sprinkler system.

Any thoughts on Franklin pump quality and which HP rating we should choose?

Bob

PS The plumber freed up our seized pump and it is working for now so we aren't in a rush.

 

[Valveman]

The size of the jet in a jet pump is important. Some 1/2HP pump can build a lot of pressure like 80 PSI max, while another only builds 55 PSI max and can only use a 30/50 pressure switch. I would want a pump that has a max pressure of at least 70 PSI so I could run a 40/60 pressure switch.

Franklin is as good as any and if you have the plumber install it he will want to install the brand he carries.

40/60 with 50 PSI constant will make for really good shower pressure.