Above-ground pool pumps
Floating about on the water or watching your kids splash around in the pool is a great way to enjoy the summer months and create memories. Making sure your pool is ready to go when the weather starts to heat up requires an effective above-ground pool filtration system to keep the water clean and swimmable.
Above-ground pool pumps come in a variety of speed, power and filtration types. Choosing the best pool pump for your needs depends on the size of your pool and how often you use it.
What is an above-ground pool pump?
An above-ground pool pump is designed to pump and filter the water in smaller above-ground pools to keep the water clean and pure. There is no major difference in the way that above-ground or inground pool pumps function.
The main components are the motor, the impeller and the pump housing. The motor is used to spin the impeller and this is what pumps the water through the filter. Constantly moving and filtering the water in the pool is what keeps it free from debris and harmful bacteria.
Features of above-ground pool pumps
Types of above-ground pool pump filters
Some above-ground pool pumps use fine paper pump filters that contain chemicals. Others use a special type of sand filter.
Paper filters typically need replacing every couple of weeks, whereas the sand does not need to be replaced very often.
Do above-ground pool pumps have automatic timers?
Some pumps are built with automatic timers so you can make sure your pump only runs when it needs to, making them more energy-efficient. This isn’t a standard feature, however, so shop wisely.
Above-ground pool pump flow rates
The flow rate determines how quickly the pump is capable of moving the water in your pool. It is calculated as the amount of gallons per hour that is passed through the pump. The higher the GPH measurement, the more effective the pump is at circulating and filtering the water.
Single-speed vs. dual-speed pool pumps
Single-speed pool pumps operate at one speed only according to the horsepower of the motor. Dual-speed pumps allow you to choose between a low-speed, energy-efficient mode or a high-speed mode.
Best above-ground pool pumps to buy
SOARRUCY Above-ground Pool Pump and Filter: available at Amazon
Our take: A pool pump and filter system compatible with many popular above-ground pool brands including Intex, Bestway and Easy Set.
What we like: Compatible with pools of up to 6,100 gallons of volume or up to 25 feet.
What we dislike: Some users report issues with the suctionfunctionality on this pump.
Pentair DYNII-NI-1-1/2 HP Dynamo Single-Speed Pump: available at Amazon
Our take: This sand-filter pump is self-priming and made from reinforced fiberglass, making it durable and long-lasting.
What we like: See-through lid on the basket makes it easy to identify when it needs emptying.
What we dislike: The pump itself is very loud, which can be annoying if you’re trying to relax in the pool.
WDERNI Swimming Pool Filter Pump: available at Amazon
Our take: With an 800-GPH flow rate, this pump system captures impurities and large debris such as sediment, hair and leaves to keep your pool clean all summer long.
What we like: The filter is easy to remove and clean and takes readily available type A and C replacement cartridges.
What we dislike: The small illustrations in the provided guide make assembly a little tricky.
Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump: available at Amazon
Our take: An exceptionally easy-to-use pump system that only requires simple maintenance, such as replacing the filter regularly.
What we like: Powerful filter with a 1,000-GPH flow rate. Uses aeration technology to enhance water clarity and cleanliness.
What we dislike: Heavy rainfall may disrupt performance or even cause the pump to stop working altogether.
Happybuy Swimming Pool Pump: available at Amazon
Our take: With corrosion-proof materials and a thermal-overload protector, this is a durable pool pump built for longevity.
What we like: Removable strainer basket makes it easy to clean and remove debris from the pool.
What we dislike: The flow rate may not be as powerful as advertised.
Intex 26645EG Intex-2100 Gph Sand Filter Pump: available at Amazon
Our take: This high-quality sand-filter pump is a cost-effective and reliable method of keeping your pool clean over several seasons.
What we like: Digital timer allows you to set the pump to turn on and off automatically at the interval of your choice for up to 12 hours of running time.
What we dislike: Some users report that the hose connections are a bit leaky.
Hayward 1 HP PowerFlo LX Above-ground Single-Speed Pool Pump: available at Home Depot
Our take: A high-powered single-speed pump that is made to operate quietly so you can enjoy your pool in peace.
What we like: Pump is self-priming, so it removes air from the water passages automatically.
What we dislike: Some users report that this model is less powerful than previous iterations.
Bestway Flow Clear Above Ground-Pool Pump: available at Amazon
Our take: This system pumps 1,500 GPH and is suitable for above-ground pools between 300 to 8,400 gallons in volume.
What we like: Removes impurities and aerates water to prevent bacteria from thriving in your pool.
What we dislike: Users report that, in reality, the pump is likely not the best choice for a pool any larger than 3,000 to 4,000 gallons.
Summer Waves SkimmerPlus Above Ground Pool Pump System: available at Amazon
Our take: This is a filter and skimmer combo that attaches to the side of your above-ground pool for efficient cleaning and easy maintenance.
What we like: Skimmer continuously removes debris while the filtration system chlorinates and cleans the pool with ultra-fine filter paper.
What we dislike: The pump works effectively but may not have the longevity of other models.
TOPWAY 2HP 110V Swimming Pool Pump: available at Amazon
Our take: This pump is suitable for cleaning inground and above ground swimming pools, hot tubs and spas.
What we like: The pump is strong and operates very quietly.
What we dislike: The power cord is very short so you may need an extension cord to operate.
Lauren Farrellis a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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