Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump
What Is the Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump?
The Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump is a versatile and dependable water pump designed to handle both shallow and deep well applications from a single unit. Available at Ken’s Distributing, this pump is built with a rugged cast iron housing and a stainless steel impeller, delivering up to 16 gallons per minute of reliable water flow for residential and light commercial water supply systems.
What makes the Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump stand out is its convertible design. Using a screw-in injector for deep well use or a bypass plug for shallow well operation, the same pump can be configured to work in wells of varying depths without needing to purchase separate units. This flexibility makes the C Series one of the most practical jet pump options available for homeowners and contractors who need a single pump solution that adapts to different well conditions.
Kendisco carries the full Franklin Electric C Series lineup, and every unit is NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 certified for safe use in potable drinking water systems. Whether you are setting up a new residential well system or upgrading an existing one, the C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump delivers the performance and flexibility to get the job done right.
What Is a Convertible Jet Pump and How Does It Work?
A convertible jet pump is a type of surface-mounted jet pump that can be configured for either shallow well or deep well operation. This is what separates it from a standard shallow well jet pump, which can only draw water from wells up to 25 feet deep.
Here is how it works in each configuration:
- Shallow Well Mode: A bypass plug is installed in the pump housing. The pump draws water using suction through a single pipe connected to the well. This configuration works for wells with a suction lift of up to 25 feet.
- Deep Well Mode: A screw-in injector kit is installed at the pump (or at the base of the well for very deep applications). The injector creates a venturi effect that draws water up from greater depths. This configuration supports wells deeper than 25 feet, typically up to 90 feet or more depending on the injector kit used.
The Franklin Electric C Series makes switching between these two modes straightforward. The deep well injector kit is sold separately, so you only purchase the additional components you need for your specific well depth. If you have questions about which configuration is right for your well, the team at Ken’s Distributing is happy to help you figure it out.
Key Features and Benefits of the Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump
- Convertible Shallow and Deep Well Design: The screw-in injector and bypass plug system allows the same pump to be configured for shallow well operation up to 25 feet or deep well operation beyond 25 feet, providing maximum flexibility for different well depths.
- Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Construction: The durable cast iron volute and motor bracket extend service life and provide reliable performance in demanding residential and light commercial applications.
- Stainless Steel Impeller: The corrosion-resistant stainless steel impeller ensures smooth, efficient water flow and long-lasting durability compared to standard plastic impellers.
- Thermoplastic Diffuser: Molded for efficient hydraulic performance, the thermoplastic diffuser contributes to consistent water pressure output across all operating conditions.
- Versatile Port Connections: Includes a 1-½ inch inlet, two ¾ inch outlets, and one 1 inch outlet, giving installers flexible plumbing setup options to match different system configurations.
- Pressure and AVC Ports: ¼ inch NPT ports are provided for pressure gauge connection and Air Volume Control (AVC) connection, supporting complete and properly functioning pressure system setups.
- 56J Threaded Shaft Motor Mount: The 56J motor configuration allows direct impeller mounting on the stainless steel shaft for a reliable and compact drive assembly.
- Carbon and Ceramic Mechanical Seal: A carbon and ceramic mechanical seal with nitrile elastomers provides robust, leak-proof sealing under pressure for reliable long-term operation.
- Pre-Installed Pressure Switch: Factory-installed and adjustable pressure switch preset to 30/50 PSI for consistent pressure system performance right from startup.
- NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 Certified: Certified safe for use in potable drinking water systems, meeting the safety requirements for residential water supply applications.
- High Flow Output: Delivers up to 16 gallons per minute, providing strong and consistent water pressure for household and light commercial needs.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Available HP | ½ HP, ¾ HP |
| Phase | Single-Phase |
| Voltage | 115 VAC / 230 VAC (Dual Voltage) |
| Inlet Port Size | 1-½ inch |
| Outlet Port Sizes | Two ¾ inch outlets and one 1 inch outlet |
| Gauge and AVC Ports | ¼ inch NPT |
| Max Flow Rate | Up to 16 GPM |
| Max Water Temperature | 140°F / 60°C |
| Maximum Working Pressure | 75 PSI |
| Pressure Switch Setting | 30/50 PSI (Pre-installed, adjustable) |
| Housing Material | Cast Iron |
| Impeller Material | Stainless Steel |
| Diffuser Material | Thermoplastic |
| Mechanical Seal | Carbon/Ceramic with Nitrile Elastomers |
| Motor Frame | 56J Threaded Shaft |
| Deep Well Injector Kit | Sold separately |
| Certification | NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 – Potable Water |
Order Information
C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump
| Item | Model | HP | Phases | Volts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 91060020 | FE05CI-C | 1/2 HP | Single-Phase | 115 / 230 VAC |
| 91060053 | FE07CI-C | 3/4 HP | Single-Phase | 115 / 230 VAC |
C Series Convertible Jet Pump vs. Shallow Well Jet Pumps: Which Do You Need?
If you are trying to decide between the Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump and a dedicated shallow well pump like the VersaJet, here is a straightforward comparison to guide your decision:
| Feature | C Series Convertible Jet Pump | VersaJet Shallow Well Jet Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Shallow Well Operation | Yes, up to 25 feet | Yes, up to 25 feet |
| Deep Well Operation | Yes, beyond 25 feet with injector kit | No |
| Impeller Material | Stainless Steel | Modified PPO with SS Insert |
| Max Flow Rate | Up to 16 GPM | Varies by HP model |
| HP Range | ½, ¾ HP | ½, ¾, 1, 1.5 HP |
| NSF Certified | Yes | Yes |
| Max Water Temperature | 140°F / 60°C | 120°F / 49°C |
| Best For | Wells of unknown or variable depth, or deeper than 25 feet | Known shallow wells up to 25 feet |
If you know your well is 25 feet deep or less and you want a straightforward setup, the VersaJet Cast Iron or SWJ Non-Corrosive pump will serve you well. If your well is deeper than 25 feet or you want a pump that can be reconfigured for different well depths in the future, the Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump is the smarter investment. Not sure which way to go? Contact Ken’s Distributing and our team will walk you through the right choice for your setup.
Applications: Where Is the Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump Used?
The Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump is well suited for a variety of residential and light commercial water supply scenarios. Here are the most common applications:
- Residential Well Water Supply: The most common application for the C Series is providing pressurized water supply to homes drawing from shallow or deep private wells.
- Properties with Variable or Unknown Well Depth: Because the C Series can be configured for either shallow or deep well operation, it is an ideal choice for properties where the well depth may change or is not precisely known at the time of installation.
- Deep Well Applications: With the separately sold deep well injector kit installed, the C Series can draw water from wells significantly deeper than 25 feet, making it a practical solution for deeper residential wells.
- Light Commercial Water Systems: Suitable for small commercial buildings and operations that rely on private well water supply.
- Irrigation and Outdoor Water Supply: Provides reliable flow and pressure for garden irrigation, lawn watering, and outdoor water supply systems connected to a private well.
- Farm and Rural Properties: Works well for rural homesteads and small farm operations needing dependable well water pressure for household and light agricultural use.
Installation and Setup Details
The Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump is designed to be practical and flexible to install. Here is what you need to know before getting started:
- Shallow Well Configuration: Install the bypass plug in the pump housing and connect a single suction pipe to the well. This setup works for wells with a suction lift of up to 25 feet.
- Deep Well Configuration: Install the separately available deep well injector kit. Depending on the well depth, the injector can be positioned at the pump or lowered into the well on a two-pipe system to draw water from greater depths.
- Motor Frame: The 56J threaded shaft motor frame allows direct mounting of the stainless steel impeller on the motor shaft, resulting in a compact and reliable drive assembly.
- Port Connections: The pump features a 1-½ inch inlet, two ¾ inch outlets, and one 1 inch outlet. The ¼ inch NPT ports are available for pressure gauge and Air Volume Control connections.
- Pressure Switch: The factory-installed pressure switch is preset at 30/50 PSI and is adjustable to suit your specific system pressure requirements.
- Voltage: Configurable for 115 VAC or 230 VAC single-phase power at the time of installation.
- Deep Well Injector Kit: Note that the deep well injector kit is sold separately. Ken’s Distributing can help you select the correct injector kit for your well depth and pump model.
For a complete and fully functioning pressure system, Ken’s Distributing recommends pairing the C Series pump with a compatible pressure tank, foot valve, check valve, pressure gauge, and the appropriate injector kit for your well depth. Our team is available to help you put together the right system for your property.
Compatible Replacement Parts and Accessories
To maintain the performance and longevity of your Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump, using genuine Franklin Electric replacement parts is always the best approach. Kendisco stocks a wide range of compatible parts and accessories for the C Series, including:
- Deep well injector kits (sold separately)
- Mechanical seal replacement kits
- Stainless steel impeller assemblies
- Pressure switch replacements
- Gasket and O-ring kits
- Pressure tank accessories
- Bypass plug assemblies
Genuine Franklin Electric parts protect your warranty and ensure the C Series continues to perform as designed. Browse the full range of available Franklin Electric replacement parts at Kendisco today.
View Franklin Electric Replacement Parts at Ken’s Distributing
Frequently Asked Questions About the Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump
What does convertible mean in a jet pump?
A convertible jet pump can be configured for either shallow well or deep well operation using the same pump unit. The Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump uses a bypass plug for shallow well mode and a screw-in injector kit for deep well mode. This means one pump can serve wells of different depths without needing to purchase a separate unit for each application.
How deep can the Franklin Electric C Series pump from?
In shallow well mode using the bypass plug, the C Series draws water from wells with a suction lift of up to 25 feet. In deep well mode with the separately purchased injector kit installed, the pump can draw water from significantly greater depths, typically up to 90 feet or more depending on the injector kit selected. Contact Ken’s Distributing for help choosing the right injector kit for your well depth.
Is the deep well injector kit included with the C Series pump?
No. The deep well injector kit is sold separately. The C Series pump ships ready for shallow well operation with the bypass plug installed. If you need deep well capability, you will need to purchase the appropriate injector kit separately. Kendisco carries compatible injector kits and can help you select the correct one for your setup.
What is the maximum flow rate of the Franklin Electric C Series?
The Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump delivers up to 16 gallons per minute, providing strong and consistent water pressure for residential and light commercial water supply systems.
Is the C Series pump safe for drinking water?
Yes. The Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump is NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 certified, confirming it meets the safety standards for use in potable drinking water systems.
What HP options are available for the C Series?
The Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump is available in ½ HP and ¾ HP single-phase models, both operating on 115 VAC or 230 VAC dual voltage power. Ken’s Distributing carries both models and can help you determine which HP is appropriate for your water system requirements.
What is the difference between the C Series and the Convertible Pro RM2?
Both the C Series and the Convertible Pro RM2 are convertible jet pumps from Franklin Electric, but the RM2 is the premium model with enhanced motor performance and higher output capabilities. The C Series is a reliable and cost-effective solution for standard residential well applications, while the RM2 is designed for more demanding installations. Contact Ken’s Distributing to compare both models and find the right fit for your needs.
Can the C Series be used for irrigation?
Yes. The Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump can be used for garden irrigation and outdoor water supply systems connected to a private well. For larger-scale irrigation applications, the team at Ken’s Distributing can help you evaluate whether a higher-capacity pump might be a better fit.
Where can I buy the Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump?
You can purchase the Franklin Electric C Series Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump directly from Ken’s Distributing at Kendisco.com. Our team is available to assist with product selection, compatible accessories, injector kit recommendations, and any technical questions you may have about this pump.
Related Products at Ken’s Distributing
- Franklin Electric Convertible Pro RM2 Cast Iron Convertible Jet Pump – The premium convertible jet pump model with enhanced motor performance
- Franklin Electric VersaJet Cast Iron Shallow Well Jet Pump – Dedicated shallow well pump for wells up to 25 feet deep
- Franklin Electric VersaJet Pro Cast Iron Shallow Well Jet Pump – Upgraded shallow well pump with Quick-Change nozzle system
- Franklin Electric SWJ Shallow Well Non-Corrosive Jet Pump – Thermoplastic construction for corrosive or brackish water sources
- Franklin Electric Replacement Parts – Genuine OEM parts for all C Series models, available at Kendisco