Priming a Shallow Well Pump After Hitting a Shell Bed

A 15' deep shallow well in Florida has 6' of water but won’t prime. A 1/2 HP Myers deep well pump (previously used with a down-hole ejector) was installed without a shallow well ejector. The bottom hole was plugged, and 1-1/4" suction pipe with a sand point connected to the top port. No prime, no matter how much water is poured in.

Missing Components

A shallow well jet pump requires a shallow well ejector (jet assembly) to create the venturi effect that lifts water. The deep well ejector is different and won’t work. Also, a foot valve (check valve) on the suction line’s end is essential—it lets water in but prevents it from falling back out. Without it, the pump can’t hold prime.

Fix

1. Install a shallow well ejector kit matched to your pump model.
2. Add a foot valve at the bottom of the suction pipe.
3. Ensure all suction line joints are airtight.

Ejectors are not universal; match the pump’s HP and flow. Cost: $30–$80. A local well supply shop can kit it correctly.