How Long will a Jackery Run Well Pump/Water Pump

The runtime of a well pump or water pump with a Jackery Solar Generator can vary between a few minutes and multiple hours. However, the exact answer to how long will a Jackery run well pump or water pump depends on the pump type and the Jackery Solar Generator model. In recent years, extended power outages in many states have left residents without access to water, inconveniencing them and hampering their day-to-day routine. So, investing in a backup power solution to power your well pump is a smart decision. 

With increasing diesel prices and a growing focus on sustainability, it’s wise to consider options such as solar generators. Jackery Solar Generators are reliable and can efficiently power well pumps to provide uninterrupted water access during power outages. This guide contains everything, including the runtime and which Jackery Solar Generator to use for a well pump. 

AI Takeaways

• How long a Jackery will power a well pump depends on the solar generator model and the type of pump. 
• A Jackery Solar Generator with an output between 600W and 2000W is capable of powering most well pump types.  
• A Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus will power a 1/2 HP jet pump (900W) for 4.5 hours.
• Does the type of well pump or water pump affect how long a Jackery Solar Generator lasts? 
• How to maximize the runtime of the Jackery Solar Generator when powering the well pump/water pump?

How Long Can a Jackery Power a Well Pump/Water Pump on Average?

On average, a Jackery Solar Generator can power different well pumps for a few minutes to multiple hours.  

To calculate the exact value of how long a Jackery will power a well pump or water pump, you first need to understand how many watts does a well pump use, including the running and surge wattage. Choose the Jackery Solar Generator model with a higher running and surge wattage output. Then, access the runtime calculator on the Jackery Buying Guide, and input the running wattage of your well pump. 

For example, let’s consider you have a 120V, 1/2 HP well pump (900W), and you want to use the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus. Find the runtime calculator, select “Explorer 5000 Plus” as the power station. Then, input the appliance wattage and press “Enter.” You’ll get a runtime of 5 hours. 

Please note: Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus with a surge wattage of 14400W is suitable to power most residential well or water pumps.   

What Size Jackery do I Need to Run a Well Pump/Water Pump?

A Jackery Solar Generator that can provide an output between 600W and 2000W should be a reliable companion for your well pump. However, when you ask what size generator to run a well pump, evaluate which type of solar generator is ideal, based on the size and capacity of your well pump.

Scott, a soft-spoken engineer, did the same thing when he was researching which Jackery Solar Generator to pick for his appliances, which included a well pump. He needed a solar generator that could get the lights, well pump, fridge, water heater, and WiFi running within minutes of a power outage. With the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus, he no longer needs to scramble for water or gas in a snowstorm. Learn more about his experience in his Jackery story.

The following table should help you figure out what size generator do you need to run the well or water pump: 

Does the Well Pump/Water Pump Type Affect How Long a Jackery Lasts?

Yes, the runtime of Jackery for a well pump or water pump varies with its required wattage. For example, the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus will power a 1/2 HP jet pump (900W) and a 1/2 HP shallow well pump (750W) for 4.5 hours and 5.4 hours, respectively. On the other hand, if you use the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus, it will power the same pumps for 3.3 hours and 3.9 hours. Take a look at the recommended generator type suited to different types of well pumps:  

Recommended Jackery Solar Generators for a Well Pump/Water Pump

Jackery offers a range of solar generators, portable power stations, and solar panels that are reliable for powering various well pumps. The essential home backup solutions from Jackery are compact in design and efficient than traditional fuel-based generators. These are a smart investment if you wish to switch to a more reliable and eco-friendly solution for your off-grid water pump or keep the water flowing during prolonged power outages.

Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus

Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus is an essential home battery backup solution that can keep your well pumps running for hours without relying on grid electricity. Even after that, it will still have enough power left to run other household essentials, such as lights, WiFi, and a refrigerator. What’s unique is that the solar generator features 12 output ports, so that you can power multiple appliances at once. It can also serve as a 240V battery backup for well pump and other appliances.

Appliance Running Hours

• Diaphragm Pump (500W): 7.8H
• Gear Pump (700W): 5.6H
• Shallow Well Pump (800W): 5.0H
• Centrifugal Pump (1100W): 3.7H
• Submersible Pump (1500W): 3H

Who Should Buy This

Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus is a great option for those who want to stay prepared for outdoor and home backup power, even during prolonged power outages.

Customer Review

Exactly what we needed to power our home. Especially nice to have a 240-volt option to run the well pump. Also nice to be able to "accessorize" as finances allow.

- Richard Wamsley. 

Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus

Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus can also be a smart choice if you want to keep your well pump running during short outages. Its robust power output and high battery capacity make it suitable to run most types of 120V water pumps, including those with high horsepower ratings. Apart from that, its sturdy handles and wheels allow easy portability from one place to another. 

Appliance Running Hours

• Diaphragm Pump (500W): 5.8H
• Gear Pump (700W): 4.2H
• Shallow Well Pump (800W): 3.7H
• Centrifugal Pump (1100W): 2.7H
• Submersible Pump (1500W): 2.0H

Who Should Buy This

The Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus is suitable for those who need a comparatively smaller battery backup for their 1/2 HP or 3/4 HP water pumps. 

Customer Review

5 star. Works as advertised. May get a second battery in the future.

- Darrell Chesnut. 

How to Maximize the Runtime Of Jackery When Powering the Pump?

You can maximize the runtime of Jackery Solar Generators when powering the well pump or water pump by using water wisely, optimizing the pipe system, and checking the pressure tank. 

A survey conducted by the United States Census Bureau revealed that approximately 1 in 4, or 33.9 million, households experienced power outages at least once a year. Amongst them, 70% of households reported that an outage lasted 6 hours or more. The numbers are expected to increase in the coming years. It’s therefore crucial to keep the following tips in mind to increase the runtime of the Jackery Solar Generator: 

• Use Water Wisely: The simplest yet effective way to increase the runtime of the Jackery Solar Generator is to strategize your water usage. This will decrease the number of pump cycles needed to fill the tank. 
• Check Pressure Tank: Ensure the pressure tank of the water pump is functioning properly with the correct air pressure to operate the system efficiently. Low or no pressure can cause it to pump more frequently and consume more power from Jackery Solar Generators.
• Optimize Pipe System: Ensure the pipes are properly sized to reduce pressure loss. Larger pipes minimize the energy needed to move water through the system, which helps the Jackery Solar Generator last longer and power the water pump for a couple more hours.
• Avoid Shaded Areas: How long a Jackery will run a water pump depends on the amount of sunlight the solar panels receive. It may not seem like a big deal to have a little shade on solar panels, but it can reduce output. Tilt the panels in a way that they receive maximum sunlight and keep an eye on them throughout the day to ensure they don’t receive any sunlight. 

FAQs

Will a 1000-watt generator run a water pump?

Yes, both the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus and the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 can run a water pump. For example, the runtimes of a 700W gear pump with these Jackery Solar Generators are 1.4 hours and 1.2 hours, respectively. 

Can you run a well pump on solar power?

Yes, you can run a well pump on solar power using Jackery Solar Generators. The runtime, however, depends on the type of well pump and its wattage, as well as the Jackery Solar Generator model you use. For example, a shallow well pump (800W) can run for up to 1.2 hours with the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2.  

Will Jackery run a water pump, and for how long?

Yes, a Jackery Solar Generator can run a water pump, but the runtime depends on the solar generator’s capacity and the water pump’s wattage. For example, a Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3600 Plus can power a submersible pump (1500W) for 2 hours. 

How long will a Jackery 2000 run a water pump?

A Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus and a Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2 can run an 800W water pump for 2 hours and a diaphragm pump (500W) for 3.2 hours. 

What will I need to power a 240 V 20-amp well pump?

To power a 240V, 20-amp well pump, you will need a robust and reliable battery backup solution, such as the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus. Its capacity is high enough to keep your well pumps running for hours. 

Conclusion

How long will a Jackery run a well pump or water pump depends on the battery capacity of the Jackery Solar Generator, the well pump wattage requirements, and the hours of usage. The fact that solar generators utilize sunlight to generate electricity makes them a cost-effective option compared to gas generators for well pumps. Jackery Solar Generators provide the added advantage of portability, efficiency, and reliability. These can be a viable companion on days when there is a power outage or you are living off the grid.