what size pool filter pump do i need

Are you planning to install a pool in your backyard? If yes, then you must be aware of the crucial role that a pool filter pump plays in maintaining your swimming pool. It helps to keep your pool water free from debris and contaminants, ensuring that it is safe for swimming. However, choosing the right size of the pool filter pump can be a bit challenging as it depends on various factors. In this article, we will explore how to determine the proper size of a pool filter pump that you need.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pool Filter Pump

Before you decide on the right size of the pool filter pump, let's look at the factors that you need to consider. Understanding these key factors will help you select a pump that will meet your specific needs.

Pool Size

The size of your pool is one of the essential factors to consider when choosing a pool filter pump. The number of gallons of water in your pool will dictate the size of the pump you need. A larger pool will require a more powerful pump to ensure proper filtration.

Flow Rate

The flow rate of the pool filter pump is another critical factor to consider. It refers to the rate at which water moves through the pump. The larger your pool, the higher the required flow rate should be to keep the water clean and clear.

Resistance

The resistance of your pool's plumbing system should also be considered when choosing a filter pump. If the resistance of the pool's piping is high, the pump will struggle to move water efficiently. In this case, a more powerful pump may be required.

Filter Type

The type of pool filter you have is also crucial in selecting the right size of the pool filter pump. The three primary types of pool filters are sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters. Each type works best at specific flow rates, and the rate of water flow that each filter can handle is different.

Pump Speed

The speed of your pool filter pump is also a critical factor to consider. You have the option of choosing either a single speed or variable speed pump. Single speed pumps run at a constant rate, while variable speed pumps offer several speeds. A pump that runs at various speeds can save you energy and money in the long run.

Determining the Correct Pool Filter Pump Size

Now that we've looked at the crucial factors to consider let's discuss how to determine the right size of a pool filter pump.

Calculating the Pool's Volume

The first step is to calculate the volume of your pool in gallons. You can use an online pool volume calculator or the following formulas:

Rectangular pool: Length x Width x Average Depth x 7.5 = Volume in Gallons

Circular pool: Diameter x Diameter x Average Depth x 5.9 = Volume in Gallons

Oval pool: Length x Width x Average Depth x 5.9 = Volume in Gallons

Calculating the Required Flow Rate

Once you've calculated the pool's volume, the next step is to determine the required flow rate. The required flow rate is calculated by dividing the volume of your pool by the number of hours that you want to cycle the water in your pool. The recommended turnover time for a pool is eight hours.

Formula: Pool Volume ÷ Time Needed to Turnover = Required Flow Rate

For example, if you have a pool that holds 20,000 gallons of water, and you want to run the pump for eight hours, the calculation would be 20,000 gallons ÷ 8 hours = 2,500 gallons per hour.

Selecting the Right Size of Pool Filter Pump

Finally, you can select the right size of the pool filter pump by matching the required flow rate with the pump's output rate. Typically, pool filter manufacturers provide pump output charts that display the flow rates of their pumps.

Here are some examples of pump sizes that you may consider:

- 1 HP (horsepower) pump is suitable for pools with a volume of 20,000 to 30,000 gallons with a flow rate of 2,500 gallons per hour.

- 1.5 HP pump is appropriate for a pool with a volume of 30,000 to 40,000 gallons with a flow rate of 3,000 gallons per hour.

- 2 HP pump is suitable for a pool with a volume of 40,000 to 60,000 gallons with a flow rate of 4,000 gallons per hour.

Conclusion

Choosing the correct size of a pool filter pump is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy pool. Consider your pool's size, flow rate, resistance, filter type, and pump speed before making your final selection. Remember, selecting the right size pump will save you money and energy in the long run. Happy swimming!