The pool pump is the most important piece of equipment you have in your swimming pool. Besides determining the circulation rate, it keeps the water healthy and clean.
Furthermore, this device plays a key role in the longevity of other pieces of pool equipment. Therefore, you should consider different factors when buying the best pump for your pool. Read on to know the most important ones:
Pool Size and Volume
The pool size and volume are the two main aspects to consider when choosing the right pool pump. This device works based on the amount of water (in litres) in your pool.
Knowing your pool’s size and volume is necessary because you must calculate the pool’s flow rate per hour, which is expressed in litres per minute (lpm). Based on that information, you can pick a pump that is compatible with your pool size.
In order to calculate the flow rate, you also need the turnover time in minutes. This number is, essentially, how long it takes for the water volume to pass through the circulation system. There are two standards:
- Four hours for indoor pools
- Six hours for outdoor pools
After knowing the turnover time, divide the pool volume by this number in minutes.
Pool Type and Design
Besides knowing the flow rate, it is also crucial to consider the pool type and design.
As mentioned, the turnover time varies if you have an indoor or outdoor pool. That measurement is essential to choose the right pump size.
The pool’s design can also influence the pump’s performance since it affects how the device circulates the water.
Pump Speed
There are different models and types of pool pumps, and they all run at different speeds. These are some of the options you can find:
- Single-speed pool pumps
- Dual-speed pool pumps
- Variable-speed pool pumps
Single-speed pumps only have a one-speed setting – “high.” Since the speed cannot be increased or reduced, it’s impossible to adapt the device’s performance to the pool’s requirement, even if it needs slow pumping. Also, these models make your electricity bill higher.
Unlike single-speed models, a dual-speed pool pump has two speed settings – “low” and “high.” In other words, you can set it and save on energy when the pool is not in use.
Finally, there are variable-speed pumps, which have become very popular in recent years. These models are slightly more expensive than the other two but offer multiple benefits.
Overall, a variable-speed pump is more efficient and durable. Furthermore, these models are quieter and use permanent magnetic motors, which offer better performance.
Head Pressure Requirements
If you want to choose the right pool pump, it’s also important to consider the head pressure. This measurement indicates the total pressure that this device will work against while it pulls water. It’s part of the Total Dynamic Head, which is measured in metres.
There’s also a standard for the Total Dynamic Head, which is 15 metres THD for inground pools and 9 metres TDH for above-ground pools.
Plumbing Configuration and Pipe Size
People use the term “pool plumbing” to refer to all the pipes, fittings, and valves that make the entire system work and help the water circulate before and after it is filtered.
Did you know that the movement of water to and from your pool depends on the pipe size? Plumbing pieces play a key role in the pump’s performance. If you have a large and powerful device, you cannot use a small pipe, for example.
There’s a significant difference between the volume of water that the large pipes let flow compared to the smaller ones. Therefore, you must choose a pump compatible with your pool plumbing pieces or vice versa.
Ideally, you should choose a pump size smaller than the pipe’s flow rate.
Horsepower Requirements
Horsepower or “hp” is another type of measurement you must take into account to choose the right pool pump. Many people believe that they should choose the higher horsepower for better performance.
However, you should pick a pool pump that is powerful enough to clean your pool and keep the water circulating. That’s it.
While there are many fancy devices that promise to be very powerful, you shouldn’t pick one with the highest horsepower. First, check your filter requirements and the maximum flow rate.
Using a too-powerful pool pump that exceeds the flow rate can damage your equipment and cause expensive problems.
Electrical Requirements and Voltage
Choosing a suitable pump also involves considering electrical requirements, including voltage. Are you sure you can install these devices in your electrical system?
Most pool pumps run on these voltages: 115V or 230V. Some models run on both. These devices have also been designed to work if you hard wire them directly to power lines or inlines plugging to power.
Both types of connections are good, but you must be sure of the voltage you need to avoid issues and extend the pump’s longevity.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
As mentioned, the type of swimming pool pump you choose may have a direct effect on your energy consumption.
A variable-speed pump is more expensive but more energy-efficient. If you pick a device you can set to low, you’ll reduce your energy cost.
Noise Level
Unlike models with induction motors, a variable-speed pump doesn’t produce too much noise, so you can use it during off-peak hours (electricity is often cheaper during this time). Also, you won’t disturb your neighbours!
Durability and Reliability
Do you want to buy a device that will last years to save or maximise performance? Choosing the best pool pump is also essential. However, you shouldn’t pick the most expensive one and expect it to work forever.
A variable-speed pump usually lasts longer because its motor is top-quality and allows speed adjustments. However, the single-speed pump is the most popular and used option worldwide. Therefore, it has “tried and tested” technology that is also reliable.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
If you don’t want to spend hours and hours installing or maintaining your swimming pool pumps, you should also choose the right model.
Do you have an above-ground pool? Your pumps should be installed below the water level since they aren’t self-priming. However, inground pumps are usually more powerful and self-priming, so they can be installed above water level.
Compatibility with Filters and Other Pool Equipment
You should also make sure your pump is compatible with your pool filter.
Ideally, the pump’s flow rate must be greater than the filter’s minimum flow rate but less than the filter’s maximum flow rate.
Warranty and Customer Support
Buying the right pump goes beyond choosing the device with the best features. What if the swimming pool pump stops working just days after you bought it? That’s where the warranty comes in.
Make sure the device you choose comes with a manufacturer’s warranty and find out what types of repairs are covered.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
While there are exceptions, if you want to find the best pool pump, you should consider reputable brands.
Check out the seller’s reputation and previous customers’ reviews to find out what other users are saying about their pumps. These comments will give you a better idea of the device you’re purchasing.
Personal Preferences and Aesthetics
Don’t forget your preferences. Your pool is part of an important and beautiful area where you want to relax and spend time with your loved ones.
If you pick the right pump and consider the aesthetics, you’ll keep that valuable space beautiful. More importantly, you’ll love it!
Climate and Weather Conditions
Climatic conditions not only affect the device’s regular maintenance but also its operation and durability. Some pumps will perform better when hot temperatures hit, while others require special maintenance in cold environments.
Type of Pool Use
Based on the flow rate, you can determine if a pool pump is suitable for certain applications or uses. If you have a small pool, which is common in residential properties, the ideal flow rate is between 40 and 60 GPM.
However, the ideal flow rate for bigger pools, which are more common in commercial buildings or public spaces, is between 80 and 100 GPM.
Note: Remember that the flow rate depends on all the pieces of equipment and features in your pool, such as pump size, pool filters, heaters, water features, and more.
Local and State Regulations and Codes
The Australian government has set codes and regulations for pool pump use in the country. There are minimum energy performance standards and labelling requirements for these devices.
However, overall, the less efficient pool pumps have been removed from the market. The Australian government allows owners to choose a pool pump to purchase based on the energy rating label. If you want more information about it, visit the authorities’ official site.
Safety Features and Certifications
It’s also essential to choose safe swimming pool pumps, but how can you know if they actually are? Some pool pumps have certifications and have been tested to make sure they’re safe for users and the environment. Opt for those options!
Availability and Price
Finally, there’s availability and price. As mentioned, you shouldn’t buy the most expensive or cheapest swimming pool pump you can find. Review all the available options and choose only the best ones according to your needs and quality standards.
You should also consider your budget. However, if possible, focus on the device’s features before making a decision.
Conclusion
Do you want to choose the best pool pump? Here are all the factors you should consider! Yes, it’s a lot of work and many things to think about.
However, keeping these aspects in mind when purchasing your pool pumps will help you choose only durable, high-quality, and reliable devices.