Maxi Jet Submersible Water Pump — The Workhorse Pump for NFT, Flood & Drain, and Hydroponic Systems
Best for: Growers running NFT, flood and drain, or drip systems who need a reliable, quiet pump that just works
Our thoughts
The Maxi Jet is the pump you see in half the systems in the UK for a reason — it's reliable, affordable, and does exactly what you need without faffing about. It's the industry standard in hydroponic kits for a reason. One we stock a lot of for good reason.
The Maxi Jet is a fully submersible water pump built to move nutrient solutions reliably through NFT channels, flood and drain trays, dripper lines, and run-to-waste systems. It's the pump you'll find inside Wilma kits, IWS systems, Origin setups, and hundreds of independent closed-loop growing rigs across the UK. Corrosion-resistant plastic casing, pre-filter protection, and a mountable bracket to kill vibration — it's designed to run day in, day out without drama.
How it compares
The Maxi Jet sits in the proven, cost-effective bracket of hydroponic water pumps.
- Direct compatibility with industry-standard hydroponic systems (IWS, Wilma, Origin, MD Multi Duct NFT)
- More affordable than premium circulation pumps (Vortech, Tunze) with proven longevity
- Built for nutrient solution handling, not just water circulation
- Simpler, more reliable than gyre-style powerheads in closed systems
You're not paying for wireless control or variable speed — you're paying for a pump that won't fail when your roots depend on it.
Usage guidance
NFT systems (channels and guttering)
The MJ500 and MJ320 are the workhorses here. Low flow, constant delivery. One pump circulates the nutrient film across the roots continuously.
Flood and drain (ebb and flow)
The MJ750 and MJ1000 handle the larger volume fills required. These pumps have enough head pressure to push water up into trays and maintain flow against gravity. Maximum head height is around 1.65 metres depending on the model.
Drip and run-to-waste
Any model works, but match your GPH to your emitter count. The pre-filter stops debris blocking drippers.
Installation
Comes wired and ready. 2 metres of cable, 13amp plug. Outlet is 12.5mm and fits standard 13mm tubing. Mount on suction cups to reduce noise and vibration — they work.
Hard water areas
Descale periodically. Mineral buildup is the only real maintenance issue with these pumps. A soft descaler every few months keeps it running clean.
Technical specifications
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Available models: MJ320, MJ500, MJ750, MJ1000
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Flow rates: 320–900 litres per hour (depending on model)
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Power: 50Hz, 7.5W typical
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Outlet: 12.5mm (fits 13mm tubing)
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Maximum head height: ~1.65 metres
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Construction: Corrosion-resistant plastic casing with pre-filter
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Mounting: 3-suction cup bracket included
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Cable: 2 metres, 13amp plug (ready to use)
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Outlet: 360-degree rotating waterproof connection
Who this is for
- Growers running IWS, Wilma, Origin, or other kit systems requiring a proven pump
- NFT growers who need constant, reliable nutrient film circulation
- Flood and drain users building larger systems with tray volumes over 50 litres
- Anyone replacing a failed pump who wants the same specification back
- Budget-conscious growers who won't compromise on reliability
Our take
The Maxi Jet has been the standard hydroponic pump in the UK for years because it works. It moves the volume you need, handles nutrient solution without complaint, and runs quietly enough that you won't hear it over the extractor. Simple, reliable, industry-compatible — exactly what a hydroponic pump should be.
Good time to buy while stock lasts. Pick the model that matches your system, bolt it in, and get growing. Does exactly what it should, day in, day out.
