Choosing the right accessories for pumps — from replacement impellers and valve keys to well-point kits and tank fittings — can save time, money, and a lot of frustration. This guide distills extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert reviews to recommend four accessories that reliably improve pump performance, maintenance, and installation.
Considerations
When evaluating pump accessories I focused on real-world usefulness, build quality, compatibility, and ease of installation/maintenance. Sources included hands-on tests, cross-referencing manufacturer specs, expert plumber input, and hundreds of customer reviews. Key factors that influenced rankings:
- Reliability & durability: Materials, construction, and resistance to corrosion or wear.
- Compatibility: How broadly the accessory fits common pump systems (thread sizes, models, pipe diameters).
- Usability: Installation complexity, included hardware, and whether the accessory reduces future maintenance time/cost.
- Value: Performance relative to price, and whether the kit includes meaningful extras (gauges, adapters, seals).
This produced a balanced list that covers everyday maintenance tools, replacement parts, and installation kits.
T‑Handle Valve Keys
Simple, durable valve keys that make shutting off manifold and PEX manifold valves fast and reliable. The forged core and ergonomic T‑handle provide good torque in tight spaces. A low-cost, high-utility tool for service technicians and DIYers working with manifold systems.
Why this is our Best Budget Pick
The T‑Handle valve keys are small, inexpensive tools that solve a common pain point: turning stubborn PEX/manifold shut‑off valves in cramped spaces. The forged steel core gives durability while the ergonomic grips let you apply higher torque without slipping. They come as a matched red/blue pair covering both older and newer Viega diamond stem sizes, so they’re broadly useful where manifold variations exist. Technical note: keys are sized to fit legacy 1/4"×5/16" stems and newer 3/8"×1/2" diamond stems, making them versatile for many systems. Pros: very low cost, robust build, twin pack. Cons: strictly a tool — not useful if your manifold uses non-diamond stems.
1-1/4 Well Drive Kit
A heavy-duty shallow well drive-point kit built for sand and soft soils. Stainless steel well point with 60‑gauge screen and multiple galvanized drive pipes offers a long-lasting solution for DIY shallow wells and irrigation supply when conditions permit.
Why this is our Premium Choice
This 1‑1/4" drive point kit is built for serious, long-term shallow well projects. The stainless steel well point with a 60‑gauge stainless mesh provides good sand control, and the galvanized drive pipes and couplings are heavy‑duty enough for repeated hammering. It’s the costliest item on the list but justified by professional-grade materials and the ability to assemble a deep string of pipe for reaching shallow aquifers. Use-case: ideal for small farms, remote properties, or anyone who prefers a durable, self-driven sand point solution. Limitations: performance depends heavily on soil type — it’s unsuitable for hard rock or dense clay.
Pressure Tank Tee Kit
A comprehensive pressure tank tee kit that includes a 40–60 PSI pressure switch, 100 PSI gauge, relief and drain valves, and brass fittings. Makes installing or updating a well tank straightforward and improves safety and monitoring.
Why this is our Best Value for Money
This brass tee kit bundles the essential components to outfit a pressure tank: a 40/60 PSI switch, 100 PSI gauge, pressure relief and drain valves, and the threaded tee itself. The lead‑free brass body resists corrosion and the included parts remove the need to source compatible components separately. For homeowners replacing or upgrading a well tank this is a time‑saving, cost‑effective solution. Technical notes: tee uses 1" NPT male and 3/4" NPT female fittings, and the included pressure switch automates pump control at 40/60 PSI. Pros: complete kit, durable brass, clear value. Cons: requires basic plumbing skills to install safely.
Impeller & O‑Ring Kit
A precision replacement impeller and O‑ring kit for Milwaukee M18 transfer pumps. Neoprene impeller with brass core and a quality O‑ring restores pump flow and prevents leaks—an excellent option to extend pump life at modest cost.
Why this is our Editors Choice
This impeller and O‑ring kit targets a common failure point in transfer pumps: the worn impeller and seal. The neoprene impeller with a brass core is resistant to wear and heat, while the included O‑ring and lubricant help restore a leak‑free seal. It’s a direct replacement designed to match OEM tolerances, simplifying repairs and offering a cost‑effective alternative to full pump replacement. Ideal for contractors and homeowners who rely on high‑flow transfer pumps for site drainage or dewatering. Pros: OEM-fit, durable materials, easy installation. Cons: model-specific—confirm compatibility with your transfer pump.
Comparison Overview
- T‑Handle Valve Keys (Best Budget Pick) — Best for basic service tasks and manifold shutoffs; ultra‑affordable and durable. Great for plumbers and DIYers who need a reliable tool.
- 1-1/4 Well Drive Kit (Premium Choice) — Heavy‑duty kit for drilling shallow sand‑point wells; premium materials and long‑term durability for demanding installations.
- Pressure Tank Tee Kit (Best Value for Money) — All‑in‑one kit for pressure tank installations; excellent balance of components, build quality, and price.
- Impeller & O‑Ring Kit (Editors Choice) — Best repair kit to restore pump performance and stop leaks; OEM‑style fit and durable materials.
Best overall: Pressure Tank Tee Kit for most homeowners because it solves a common set of problems (automation, monitoring, and safety) at a reasonable price. If you need a high‑quality repair part that extends pump life with minimal fuss, the Impeller & O‑Ring Kit is the best alternative. For professional or heavy DIY installations in appropriate soils, the 1-1/4 Well Drive Kit is the top pick. And for small savings and everyday service jobs, the T‑Handle Valve Keys are indispensable.
Final Recommendation
All four accessories earned their spots through durability, clear use-cases, and real-world utility. If you must pick one item for general pump upkeep and improvement, choose the Pressure Tank Tee Kit — its combination of essential parts, brass construction, and automated pressure control make it the most impactful purchase for typical well‑pump systems. Choose the Impeller & O‑Ring Kit if you need to restore pump flow and seal integrity quickly. Go with the Well Drive Kit for heavy‑duty shallow well work, and keep the T‑Handle Valve Keys in your toolkit for routine service.
These recommendations come from structured testing, expert consultation, and analysis of user feedback. Match the item to your application (repair vs installation vs maintenance) and verify compatibility (thread sizes, pump model) before purchase to get the best results.