Your jet pump motor has finally given out. The water pressure drops, the pump cycles erratically, or it simply refuses to start. You are facing a jet pump motor replacement and need a reliable solution that won’t break the bank or require constant service. This guide focuses on one of the most trusted options in the market: the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM 115/230V, 1 HP, 23 GPM shallow well jet pump. Whether you are replacing a worn-out pump on a rural home, a farm, or a cabin, this review will help you decide if this cast-iron workhorse is the right fit for your needs.
Before diving into the details, it helps to understand the basics of well pump selection. If you are unsure about your well type or depth, check out our complete guide on what pump you need for your well to match the right equipment to your water source.
Pros
- Rugged cast iron casing and volute for durability and long service life.
- High flow rate of 23 GPM meets demands of large households.
- Versatile voltage options (115/230V) with easy conversion.
- Positive customer feedback on water pressure and quiet operation.
- Includes essential components like pressure switch and gauge.
Cons
- Some units reported losing prime shortly after installation, indicating potential quality control issues.
- The prime plug may be overly tight, making initial setup difficult.
- Shipping damage can occur, as noted by a customer who received a broken pressure switch fitting.
The Red Lion RJS-100-PREM is a premium shallow well jet pump designed for rural homes, farms, and cabins that rely on well water. With a 1 HP motor and 23 GPM flow rate, it handles suction lifts down to 25 feet, making it ideal for properties with shallow wells.
Standout features include a rugged cast iron casing and a factory pre-set 30/50 pressure switch. Users report excellent water pressure and volume, with one reviewer noting 60 PSI for their entire house. The motor runs on either 115 or 230 volts, offering flexibility for different electrical setups.
Build quality is solid thanks to the cast iron construction and glass-filled thermoplastic impeller. The pump is CSA listed and comes with a pressure gauge. However, some customers experienced issues with losing prime shortly after installation or shipping damage to components like the pressure switch fitting.
Drawbacks include potential quality control inconsistencies and a very tight prime plug that can frustrate initial setup. Despite these issues, many users find the pump reliable and quiet compared to older models. It is a strong value for those needing a durable shallow well pump.
Overall, the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM offers robust performance for its price point. If you need a dependable pump for a shallow well and are willing to handle minor setup quirks, this is a worthy choice. Just ensure careful inspection upon delivery and follow the manual for voltage selection.
Brand: Red Lion. Model: RJS-100-PREM. Horsepower: 1 HP. Flow Rate: 23 GPM. Voltage: 115/230 Volts (factory set for 230V). Amperage: 17.6 Amps at 115V, 8.8 Amps at 230V.
Intake: 1-1/4 inch FNPT. Discharge: 1 inch FNPT. Max Pressure: 65 PSI. Max Head: 150 Feet. Max Lifting Height: 25 Feet. Material: Cast Iron casing, glass-filled thermoplastic impeller.
Weight: 41 pounds. Dimensions: 17.8 x 9.1 x 9.1 inches. Includes: 30/50 pressure switch, pressure gauge, installation manual. Warranty: 1 year.
Buying Guide for Jet Pump Motor Replacement
When replacing a jet pump motor, you are often better off swapping the entire pump assembly rather than just the motor. The Red Lion RJS-100-PREM is a complete unit that integrates a heavy-duty motor with a durable pump body. Here are the key criteria we evaluated to confirm its suitability for your replacement project.
1. Motor Power and Voltage Flexibility
The motor is the heart of any jet pump. The Red Lion RJS-100-PREM delivers 1 HP of reliable power, which is sufficient for most shallow well applications with suction lifts up to 25 feet. A standout feature is its dual-voltage capability: it runs on either 115V or 230V. This flexibility means you can adapt it to your existing electrical setup without rewiring the entire system. The included capacitor provides extra starting torque, ensuring the pump primes quickly even after a power outage.
For homes that prioritize quiet operation, you might also consider our roundup of quiet well pumps if noise is a concern. However, the Red Lion’s rugged cast-iron casing actually helps dampen vibration compared to lighter plastic pumps.
2. Build Quality and Durability
A jet pump motor replacement should last for years, not months. The Red Lion RJS-100-PREM uses a cast-iron casing and volute, which resist corrosion and physical damage far better than thermoplastic alternatives. The impeller and diffuser are glass-filled thermoplastic, offering excellent wear resistance against sand and sediment. This combination makes it a verified choice for continuous duty in demanding environments like farms and off-grid cabins.
If your well is particularly shallow or dug, you might want to read our guide on the best well pump for dug well to see how the Red Lion compares with other options.
3. Flow Rate and Pressure Performance
With a maximum flow of 23 gallons per minute (GPM) and a max pressure of 65 PSI, this pump can handle typical household demand for a 2–3 bathroom home. The factory pre-set 30/50 pressure switch means you get consistent water pressure without fiddling with adjustments. The included pressure gauge lets you monitor system health at a glance. For those looking to pair the pump with a tank, our well pump kit buying guide covers compatible tank setups.
4. Ease of Installation and Compatibility
Replacing an existing jet pump with the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM is straightforward. The 1-1/4″ FNPT suction intake and 1″ FNPT discharge match standard plumbing sizes. The pump is CSA listed in both the USA and Canada, so it meets safety and performance standards. If you are also upgrading your pressure system, browse our pressure systems category for compatible tanks and controls.
Final Thoughts
For a dependable jet pump motor replacement, the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM 115/230V, 1 HP, 23 GPM stands out as a rugged, high-performance solution that delivers consistent water pressure for shallow wells. Its cast-iron construction and dual-voltage motor make it a long-term investment for rural homes, farms, and cabins. If you need a pump that can handle a 25-foot suction lift and provide up to 23 GPM, this is the model we recommend after careful evaluation. For those with deeper wells or higher flow demands, consider the same Red Lion model in a higher horsepower configuration, but for most standard replacement jobs, this unit hits the sweet spot of reliability and value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just the motor on my existing jet pump?
While it is possible to replace only the motor, it is often more cost-effective and reliable to replace the entire pump assembly. The Red Lion RJS-100-PREM is a complete unit that includes a new motor, impeller, and pressure switch, ensuring all components work together seamlessly. This avoids mismatched parts and extends the life of your system.
What size jet pump do I need for a 1 HP motor replacement?
A 1 HP jet pump like the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM is ideal for shallow wells with depths up to 25 feet and typical household water demand. If your well is deeper or your water usage is higher (e.g., irrigation), you may need a 1.5 HP or 2 HP model. Check our well pump with soft start for larger options that reduce electrical stress.
How long does a Red Lion jet pump typically last?
With proper installation and maintenance, the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM can last 10–15 years or more. Its cast-iron casing and glass-filled thermoplastic components resist corrosion and wear. Regularly checking the pressure switch and keeping the intake screen clean will maximize its lifespan. Many users report reliable service for over a decade.
Is the Red Lion RJS-100-PREM compatible with a 30/50 pressure switch?
Yes, the pump comes with a factory pre-set 30/50 pressure switch, meaning it will turn on at 30 PSI and off at 50 PSI. This is the standard setting for most residential water systems. You can adjust the switch if needed, but the default setting works well for typical household use.
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