Swimming pool pumps

A swimming pool pump is an essential item of pool equipment that no in-ground or good above-ground swimming pool can function without.

What a swimming pool pump does

A pool pump acts as the power source behind a swimming pool's filtration and heating systems enabling the pool to stay warm, clean and hygienic.

The pool pump ensures that the pool water is circulated on a regular basis and that it is not allowed to stagnate. This enables the even distribution of cleaning chemicals and water quality chemicals and helps to ensure the pool's health and the health of those who use it.

If the pool has a pool heater, then the pool pump will also circulate water through this heating system and it can also power auxiliary equipment like suction cleaners.

The pump itself draws water from the pool's suction ports and then, using a hydraulic and or centrifugal action, pushes it through the filter and heater (if there is one).

In selecting a pool pump it is important to try and match the pumps flow rate (and Hp) with that of the filter and the heater.

Using a pump that is too powerful may damage the filter and will not improve the quality of the water or the performance of the filter or heater. Additionally, the bigger and more powerful the pump, the greater the electricity consumption will be. If an existing pump is being replaced, and the old pump worked well, then the power and flow rate of that pump should be duplicated in the new replacement.

Types of pool pumps

Many manufacturers make specific pumps (and filtration systems) for in-ground and above-ground pools. Pumps also come in a number of different power outputs, suitable for different sized pools, and with varying build qualities and price tags. The following can be used as a guide.

• Above-ground pools and small below-ground pools typically require a "low head" pump.
• Small to medium sized below-ground pools (with a capacity of 10,000 to 20,000 gallons) typically require a "medium head" pump.
• Large below-ground pools (with a capacity of more than 20,000 gallons) typically require a "high head" pump.
• Some very low output above-ground pool pumps can plug directly into a domestic electricity outlet.
• It is always important to ensure that the energy consumption of your swimming pool equipment can be met by your domestic energy supply.