How to Choose the Right Size Pool Pump for Inground Pools

Pool pumps keep your water fresh and clean by allowing it to circulate through the pool filtration system, ensuring that it stays free from algae, bugs, dirt or other materials. When it comes to selecting the right pool pump, it’s a common assumption that “bigger is better”, however, that simply isn’t true when it comes to inground pool pumps. A pump that’s too large for your pool’s capacity will just run up your energy bills without maximizing efficiency, while a pool pump that isn’t powerful enough will work too hard and will definitely cause an increase in your electricity bills. Follow our helpful tips below for how to choose the right pool pump for an inground pool and make sure you select the right size for the job.

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Things You’ll Need:

Measuring tape
Calculator

DETERMINE HOW MANY GALLONS THE POOL HOLDS

If you have a rectangular pool, multiple your pool’s length x width x average depth. This is found adding the depth of the shallow to the depth at the deep end and dividing by 2. Once you have the average depth, use the following formula to determine your pool’s water capacity: Gallons = Length x Width x Average Depth x 7.5.

Pool with a clear inner tube

For round pools, measure the pool’s diameter and average depth. This number is calculated the same as in rectangular pools, by adding the depth of the deep end to the depth of the shallow end and dividing by 2. To get the final number for how many gallons the pool holds, use the following formula: Gallons = Diameter x Diameter x Average Depth x 5.9.

DETERMINE HOW MANY GALLONS PER HOURS,(OR GPH) WILL BE REQUIRED TO PROPERLY CLEAN YOUR POOL WATER IN 8 HOURS.

This flow rate number is determined by dividing the calculated gallons by 8. Since most pool pumps specs are noted in Gallons Per Minutes (GPM), you have to convert them from GPH to GPM. This is done by dividing the GPH by 60 minutes.

CALCULATE MAXIMUM FLOW RATE AND RESISTANCE.

Other important measurements to take before buying a pool pump include the max flow rate and flow resistance. Taking these two measurements will help determine motor size and capacity rating that you should choose.

THE RIGHT POOL PUMP MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.

Once you’ve figured out the measurements for your pool, you’ll be prepared to purchase the right pool pump. Choosing the best size pump for your needs results in a pump that runs more efficiently and that will last long through many pool seasons, so be sure to shop carefully.