The swimming pool pump is a vital piece of pool equipment that circulates water through your pool filter in order to remove dirt and bacteria from the pool water. Whether you are in the market for a pool pump because your old one died, or you are installing a new pool, there are a lot of variables to consider when choosing the best pool pump for you. Here, we break down everything you need to know about pool pumps, as well as recommendations for the top brands and models.
Types of Pool Pumps
There are three main types of pool pumps available: single speed, dual speed, and variable speed.
Single Speed Pool Pumps
Single-speed pool pumps were the first types of pool pumps available. As the name implies, they have only one speed, making them less efficient than variable and dual-speed pumps. Federal mandates will soon set energy efficiency standards for pool pumps in the United States, and larger single-speed pumps do not meet these standards.
Dual Speed Pool Pumps
Dual speed pumps have two speed settings, low and high speed. This is more energy-efficient than single-speed because you can set the pump on the lower speed setting when you do not need the higher water flow rate.
H3 Variable Speed Pool Pumps
While variable speed pumps are more expensive than single and dual-speed pumps, they will save you big money on energy costs. Variable speed pumps use an entirely different type of motor called a permanent magnet motor that requires less energy but provides a higher flow rate. In addition to the energy savings, your purchase may be eligible for a utility rebate. Variable speed pumps can have up to eight different speeds, and they run quieter than the other types of pumps. Pool owners love the convenient automation of multiple programmable speeds.
More Pool Pump Features to Consider
There are still a few more features of the pool pump to consider before making a decision.
Self-Priming Pool Pumps
Whether you need a self-priming pool pump or a non-self-priming pool pump depends on whether you have an above ground pool or an inground pool. Inground pool pumps should always be self-priming because the pump will sit above the waterline. Above ground pools are usually fine with a non-self-priming pump as long as the equipment sits below the waterline and can use gravity to draw water out of the pool.
Pool Pump Size
When selecting a pool pump, make sure to choose one that is right for your swimming pool size. If it’s too small, it won’t be able to sufficiently move water through the filtration system to keep it clean. If the pump is too large, you will be wasting money on equipment and electricity. The right size pool pump is one that can filter all the water in your pool at least once per day. This is called the turnover rate. To determine the desired turnover rate for your pool pump, follow these steps:
- Determine the capacity of your pool.
- Divide the number of gallons of water in your pool by the number of hours you want per turnover. Then divide this number by 60 to determine your required flow rate, a.k.a. gallons per minute (GPM).
(Pool capacity in gallons/desired turnover rate in hours)/60=Flow rate in GPM.
Example: If you have a20,000 gallon pooland a desired turnover rate of 5 hours, your desired flow rate would be: (20,000/5) = 4,000 gallons per hour/60 = 66.66 GPM, or approximately 67 GPM.
Now that you know the desired GPM, there are a couple more things to think about. Consider the size of your pool filter. It is important to match the size of the pool pump to the size of the pool filter. A pool pump with too much horsepower can overwhelm a small filter. A good rule of thumb is to make sure that the inlet and outlet pipe sizes on both pieces of equipment are the same.
Pool Pump Motor Voltage
Before purchasing, make sure to check if your pump needs to be hardwired or if it can plug into an outlet. Also, check to see if it runs on 110 or 220 volts. You may need to hire an electrician to make any necessary changes to your current setup.
Best Inground Pool Pumps
Hayward TriStar VS Pump
The Hayward TriStar Variable Speed Pool Pump is renowned for its energy efficiency, saving you up to 90% on energy costs! The easy-to-use programmable digital interface makes it convenient and user-friendly. Backed by a 1-year warranty, the high-performance Hayward TriStar is the perfect choice for medium to large inground pools.
Pentair SuperFlo VS Variable Speed Pump
The Pentair SuperFlo Variable Speed Pump is the ultimate heavy-duty pool pump that performs with ultra-quiet efficiency. Three fully programmable speeds make it easy to set a schedule that will keep your pool clean and save you big money on energy costs.
Hayward Super Pump Variable Speed Pump
Another high-quality product, the Hayward Super Pump Variable Speed Pump is the ideal choice for small to medium-sized pools. This pump can save you up to 80% on energy costs and has whisper-quiet operation. Speed options from 600-3450 RPM make it easy to set the ideal schedule for your pool.
Hayward Inground Pro Series Sand Filter with 1 HP MaxFlo XL Pump
If you are looking for a pump and filter in one, this 1 hp pool pump from Hayward provides superior filtration. Featuring a seven-position Vari-Flo control valve and corrosion-proof housing, this unit will last for many, many years.
Best Above Ground Pool Pumps
Hayward PowerFlo Matrix Pool 2-Speed Pump
The Hayward PowerFlo Matrix Pool Pump features a heavy-duty motor, swivel discharge, and an oversize strainer basket to catch large debris. With easy installation and two-speed options, this pump is both convenient and powerful.
Doheny's Cartridge Filter, 25 sq ft System with 3/4 HP Pump
This 2-in-1 pump and filter system from Doheny’s combines a high-quality cartridge filter and a powerful pump for maximum performance. Made from thermoplastic materials and built to last, this system will deliver crystal clear water for many swim seasons.
With some expert advice, choosing the right pump for your swimming pool doesn’t have to be a hassle. If you have questions about how to select the right pool pump for your pool, please give us a call at 800-574-7665 or check us out online atdoheny.com.
