If you have a well but no access to grid electricity, a solar well pump conversion kit can be your solution. These kits allow you to convert your existing well pump setup to run on solar power, providing water for irrigation, livestock, or home use. In this guide, we review two top-rated kits: the PWS 3-Year Warranty Solar Water Pump 48V 540W and the ECO-WORTHY 3.2GPM Solar Well Pump Kit. We’ll help you decide which is right for your needs.
For more on selecting the right pump, see our guide on what pump do I need for my well.
Pros
- High lift capacity of 390 feet suits deep wells and boreholes
- Corrosion-resistant 316 stainless steel construction for long life
- Solar compatible with low power consumption, ideal for remote locations
- Includes MPPT controller, sensors, and spare parts for complete setup
- Positive owner reviews for ranch and cattle watering applications
Cons
- Mixed reviews on long-term reliability, with some owners reporting pump stoppage
- Installation requires technical knowledge; not plug and play
- Solar panels not included, so additional cost and wiring needed
The PWS JS3-2.1-120 is a 48V DC solar-powered submersible pump designed for deep wells and boreholes. It is a solid choice for off-grid homes, ranch watering stations, and irrigation systems where grid power is unavailable or costly.
The pump delivers a maximum total head of 390 feet and a flow rate of 9 gallons per minute, making it capable of lifting water from significant depths. The included MPPT controller optimizes solar energy collection and offers protection against low light, overheating, and dry running.
Real-world feedback shows the pump works well for cattle watering and remote water supply, with many owners praising its performance. However, a few users report issues such as impeller wear or the pump stopping after a period, so reliable clean water and consistent power input are important.
The 316 stainless steel construction and screw impeller provide corrosion resistance and durability in harsh well environments. The package includes spare parts, sensors, a float switch, and waterproof connectors, which add value and ease maintenance.
While installation requires some technical know-how and solar panels are sold separately, the PWS JS3-2.1-120 offers an efficient off-grid pumping solution. It comes with a 3-year warranty, though some owners suggest having support ready if issues arise.
Power Source: Solar Powered
Voltage: 48V DC
Power: 540W
Horsepower: 0.7 HP
Maximum Total Head: 390 ft
Maximum Flow Rate: 9 GPM
Outlet Size: 3/4 inch
Impeller Material: Stainless Steel 316
Product Style: Submersible Solar Water
Item Weight: 9.84 kg
Warranty: 3 Years
Pros
- Comprehensive kit includes panels and controller, reducing additional purchases.
- Decent flow rate and head height for small to medium irrigation tasks.
- Stainless steel pump resists rust and wear.
- Flexible power source (solar or battery) increases reliability.
- Affordable price point for an off-grid water system.
Cons
- Customer reviews indicate mixed experiences with longevity and performance consistency.
- Maximum lift may vary under real-world conditions, especially with long pipe runs.
- Not suitable for flammable liquids; designed strictly for water.
The ECO-WORTHY 3.2GPM Solar Well Pump Kit is a complete off-grid water pumping solution designed for remote gardens, farms, and tank filling where electric power is unavailable. This package includes a 12V submersible pump, two 100-watt monocrystalline solar panels, and a 20A charge controller, allowing you to harness solar energy to move water up to 230 feet vertically.
Standout features include the pump's open flow of 720 liters per hour (192 GPH) and a maximum lift of 230 feet, which is sufficient for many shallow wells or elevated storage tanks. The updated controller offers four work modes (continuous, intermittent, and others) that help optimize battery life and pump durability. You can also power the pump from a car or boat battery, giving you flexibility on cloudy days or at night.
Build quality is solid with a stainless steel pump body that resists corrosion, though some users report that the plastic components (like the impeller) may wear over time. The solar panels are polycrystalline design, and the charge controller includes basic protection features. The kit is relatively straightforward to set up, but you may need additional wiring or fittings for your specific installation.
Drawbacks: Customer reviews average 3.7 stars, with some complaints about pump failure after a few months of use or lower-than-expected flow at depth. The maximum lift rating is achieved with no bends or friction, so real-world performance may be less. Also, this pump is not suitable for any flammable liquids, so it's strictly for water use.
Verdict: For the price, the ECO-WORTHY kit offers a decent entry point into solar water pumping for small-scale irrigation or emergency water supply. If you need reliable, round-the-clock performance and can manage the setup, it's a cost-effective choice. However, if you require a heavy-duty pump for constant high-volume use, consider upgrading to a more robust model.
Buying Guide
When selecting a solar well pump conversion kit, consider these key factors to ensure optimal performance.
Solar Panel Compatibility
Ensure the pump voltage matches your solar panel array. The PWS pump operates at 48V DC, requiring a higher voltage panel setup, while the ECO-WORTHY kit includes two 100W panels for a 12V system. Verify your panel wattage and controller capacity to avoid underpowering the pump.
The PWS pump requires a 48V battery bank if you want to pump at night. The ECO-WORTHY kit can run directly from solar or a 12V battery, offering more flexibility for small systems.
Pump Depth and Flow Rate
Consider your well depth and water demand. The PWS pump can reach 390ft total head with a flow rate of 9 GPM, suitable for deep wells. The ECO-WORTHY pump has a max lift of 230ft and flow of 3.2 GPM, ideal for shallower applications. For deep well needs, check our deep well pump category.
Measure your well depth and static water level. The PWS pump’s 390ft head is suitable for deep boreholes, while the ECO-WORTHY pump is best for wells up to 200ft. Flow rate also matters: the PWS delivers 9 GPM for high-demand applications, whereas the ECO-WORTHY provides 3.2 GPM for irrigation.
MPPT Controller Technology
An MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controller maximizes solar energy harvest. The PWS kit includes a dedicated MPPT controller that protects against low light and dry running. The ECO-WORTHY controller offers four work modes for continuous or timed operation. Both help extend pump lifespan.
The PWS MPPT controller automatically adjusts to sunlight intensity, preventing startup in low light. The ECO-WORTHY controller has four modes: continuous, timed, and two sensor-based modes for automatic shutoff when tank is full.
Durability and Warranty
Stainless steel construction ensures longevity. The PWS pump features 316 stainless steel and a 3-year warranty, while the ECO-WORTHY pump uses durable materials with a standard warranty. For quiet and reliable operation, see our quiet well pumps.
Both pumps use stainless steel impellers. The PWS pump is made of 316 stainless steel, resistant to corrosion. The ECO-WORTHY pump uses 304 stainless steel. The 3-year warranty on the PWS pump provides extra peace of mind. For a complete well pump kit, see our well pump kit buying guide.
Final Thoughts
For deep wells requiring high head, the 3-Year Warranty Solar Water Pump 48V 540W is a robust choice with its 390ft lift and MPPT controller. For lighter applications like garden irrigation, the ECO-WORTHY 3.2GPM Solar Well Pump Kit offers an all-in-one solution with solar panels included. Both kits provide reliable off-grid water pumping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a solar well pump conversion kit with my existing well?
Yes, most kits are designed to replace or retrofit existing submersible pumps. Ensure your well casing diameter and depth are compatible. For standard 3-inch or larger wells, both reviewed kits fit well.
What size solar panels do I need for a solar well pump?
The panel size depends on pump voltage and daily water usage. For the PWS 48V pump, you need at least 540W of solar panels (not included). The ECO-WORTHY kit includes two 100W panels, sufficient for its 12V pump. Calculate your sun hours to ensure adequate power.
How deep can a solar well pump draw water?
The PWS pump can lift water up to 390ft, while the ECO-WORTHY pump reaches 230ft. For deeper wells, consider a submersible pump with higher head rating. See our submersible pump category for more options.
Do solar well pump kits include a controller?
Both kits reviewed include a controller. The PWS kit has an MPPT controller, and the ECO-WORTHY kit includes a 20A charge controller with multiple modes. Controllers regulate power and protect the pump.
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