Rank: | Photo: | Model: | Rating: | More Info: |
#1 |  | BEST OVERALL Hayward Super Pump Pool Pump | ||
#2 |  | XtremepowerUS Inground Pool Pump | ||
#3 |  | Pentair SuperFlo High-Performance Pool Pump | ||
#4 |  | VIVOSUN Submersible Water Pump | ||
#5 |  | Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump |
Your pool pump is the heart of your swimming pool’s circulation system.
It pulls in unfiltered water from the pull and returns it through the filters. Given the significant job that your pool pump performs, it is critical to give enough thought when planning to buy the best pool pump for your pool.
After all, if your pool pump is not working effectively, or worse, not at all, nothing else in the pool is going to work either, and you may end up with a dirty, unmaintained pool.
The purchase decision regarding investing in the best pool maintenance products is far more stressful than maintaining the pool itself given the variety of types, price range, and brands.
And that’s why we are here! In this guide, you will not only find out about the five best pool pumps recommended for the year 2020, but you will also learn about how to choose the right pump for your pool.
In the last section, you find answers to some of the frequently asked questions, which will further clarify any confusion regarding the best pool pumps that you can find this year. But before we get into details, here is a quick recap of why do you need pool pumps.
Why You Need a Pool Pump?
A pool pump is an essential pool maintenance equipment that ensures your swimming pool’s health, cleanliness, and functionality. There are several reasons you need a pool pump, but we emphasize the three most important ones.
Pool Pumps Circulate Water
Stagnant water is the breeding ground for contaminants and microorganisms such bacteria and algae, and a pool pump ensures that the water in your pool keeps circulating.
With enhanced water circulation, the chemicals also do not sit at a specific position, and the constant motion encourages adequate sanitation throughout the system.
Keeps the Pool Clean
While part of your pool pump’s function is to circulate the water, there is a lot more that a pool pump does.
It keeps the water clean by pulling pool water out of the pool and then pushing it through the filter. As a result, all the dirt and debris are collected in the strainer basket that you can easily clean regularly.
Your Pool Requires Less Maintenance
When the water in your pool is continually circulating and filtering, there is a reduced risk of debris and chemical build-up in the pool.
And since fixing the chemical build-up issue is a time-consuming activity, with a functional pump, you reduce your need for maintenance as part of the job will be done by your pool pump.
Now let’s look at the five best pool pumps that you can find on the market.
Best Pool Pumps – Reviews & Buying guide for 2020
Best Overall: Hayward Super Pump Pool Pump
Specifications
- Type: Single-speed model
- Power: 0.5 HP
- Self-Priming: Yes
- Maximum Flow Rate: 83 GPM (4,980 GPH)
Best for: Exceptional value for money.
Features
- Easy installation and maintenance.
- Manufactured by Hayward, a brand recognized for exceptional performance and durability.
- Simple and easy strainer cover removal – no tools required.
- See-through strainer cover so you know when you need to clean the strainer basket.
- An oversized strainer basket for less frequent maintenance.
Coming from the industry’s workhorse, Hayward, the Super Pump is a high quality, exceptionally reliable pool pump, and there are some excellent reasons that make it one of the top-rated pool pumps that you can find on the market.
The Hayward’s Super Pool is super easy to install. Moreover, it comes with minimal attachments so you can assemble it in a hassle-free way. It works on a single-speed but is exceptionally durable and balanced.
Additionally, the extra-large debris basket allows for the flow of water and requires less frequent maintenance. And with the see-through strainer cover, you know when is the time to clean.
This Super Pump has a maximum flow rate of 83 GPM and can handle almost every pool size. And lastly, it is self-priming, so you don’t have to worry about priming your pump no matter how many hours you run your pump for.
Perhaps the only undesirable aspect of this pool pump is that it operates at a single speed, but that shouldn’t be a concern as even at a single speed, you can maintain a clean, sparkling pool.
Pros
- Quieter and more efficient operation
- Easy to operate and maintain
- See-through strainer cover, so you know when is the time to clean
Cons
- Single-speed operation
- Fittings are not included
Runner up: XtremepowerUS Inground Pool Pump
Specifications
- Type: Dual-speed
- Power: 2 HP
- Self-Priming: Yes
- Maximum Flow Rate: 5,280 GPH
- Connectivity: Requires wiring into the electrical system.
Best for: Low-cost investment for any size of the pool.
Features
- High-Performance motor for exceptional operation.
- Large strainer basket with transparent lid and easy cleaning.
- A high maximum flow rate for any size of the pool.
- ETL and UL certified for higher safety standards.
If you are looking for a single and simple solution to all your pool’s filtration needs, your search ends here.
The XtremepowerUS2 HP pool pump is a self-priming pool pump with a large strainer basket and a high-performance motor that gives an exceptional performance at low noise levels.
The pump is made from a corrosion-resistant material that is durable and long-lasting. The pool pump is designed to be compatible for use with other solar heating and in-floor cleaning systems.
However, keep in mind that you will be connecting the pump into the electrical system, and it works only for permanently installed pools. Moreover, the installation is slightly complicated, so make sure you watch the installation video very carefully and repeatedly if required.
Pros
- Self-priming feature
- Compatible with sand and other types of filters
- Works well with solar heating and in-floor cleaning systems
- Quiet and efficient operation
Cons
- Complicated installation
- Works only for permanently installed pools
Alternative: Pentair SuperFlo High-Performance Pool Pump
Specifications
- Type: Single-speed
- Power: 1.5 HP
- Self-Priming: Yes
- Maximum Flow Rate: N/A
Best for: All standard sized pools.
Features
- A commercial grade product at a consumer price.
- High performance motor, 56-square-flange motor for durability and longer life.
- Quiet motor operation.
- See-through lid for easy inspection of the strainer basket.
When it comes to meeting all the essential principals of high quality and high-performance pool pump, the Pentair SuperFlo Single Speed Pool Pump has handled it really well. This Pentair pool pump is super quiet, easy to maintain, and energy-efficient.
It’s design and technology have made it perhaps the best single-speed pool pumps available on the market. It comes with enhanced pool pump features such as thick-walled body parts and a 56 square flanged heavy-duty motor with advanced hydraulics.
Moreover, there is a large strainer basket for less frequent cleaning and maintenance. And finally, the self-priming pool pump comes with a one-year warranty that allows you to run the pump without worrying about priming.
Pros
- Super quiet
- Energy-efficient
- Superior quality
Cons
- Limited warranty
- Issues with pump priming
Alternative: VIVOSUN Submersible Water Pump
Specifications
- Type: N/A
- Power: 120 W
- Self-Priming: N/A
- Maximum Flow Rate: 2,600 GPH
- Connectivity: 20.3 ft. long power cord for a plug-in connectivity
Best for: Ponds, aquariums, fountains, waterfalls, and irrigation systems.
Features
- High-performance motor that is super quiet and energy-efficient.
- Can be placed vertically or horizontally.
- Detachable cover for easy for easy maintenance.
- A 20.3-ft-long power cord.
- It is designed for a 24-hour continuous use while the heat-overload sensor prevents burnout.
VIVOSUN is a renowned provider of high-quality hydroponics equipment and services at an affordable price, and this is exactly why they have come up with the best Submersible Water Pump that you can use for your pond, fountain, waterfalls or irrigation system.
It is constructed using high-quality silicon carbide that is ultra-durable and easy to maintain.
Moreover, the 120 W motor is energy efficient and provides a high out despite its small size. And while the pump is submerged in water, it is super quiet and comfortable on your ears and the environment.
Perhaps the only concern with this pool pump is that it comes with a 1-year warranty for everything, but some customers complain about several parts of the pump’s durability.
Pros
- A perfect handy pump that is submersible.
- Can be attached vertically or horizontally.
- High performance, super quiet and energy efficient.
Cons
- Durability issues with the several parts of the pump including the body.
Alternative: Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump
Specifications
- Type: Filter pump
- Self-Priming: N/A
- Maximum Flow Rate: 1,000 GPH
Best for: Above ground pools
Features
- Especially designed for above ground pools.
- Easy installation.
- Built-in air release valve.
- Comes with an easy to clean, replaceable filter cartridge.
- One Hydro Aeration Technology inlet for enhanced circulation and effective filtration.
If a pool pump for above ground pools is what you need, this Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump for Above Pools is your perfect choice. With a 1,000 GPH pump flow rate, it ensures that your pool water stays Krystal Clear all summer.
The pump is specifically designed for above ground pools and come with easy installation. All you have to do is to attach hoses that plug right in. Thus ease of assembly is a great feature along with the double insulation of the pump.
Moreover, there is a built-in air release valve for the release of air that is trapped inside. This Intex pool comes with Hydro-Aeration technology that gives improved filtration and better water circulation.
Ideal for Intex pumps with a volume of 6,000 gallons. It is recommended that you do not operate the pump for more than 8 hours a day. For the best results, you are required to change the filters once every two weeks.
Pros
- It comes with everything that you need for installation and function
- Quiet operation
- Great value for money
Cons
- Filter quality is compromised
- Is not suitable for pumps with a capacity of more than 6,000 gallons
- Unsatisfactory customer support
Buying Advice: What Goes in Our Research for Choosing the Best Pool Pump?
Given the variety and brands of pool pumps available on the market, choosing the best pool pump may be overwhelming. Here are five considerations that go into our recommendation as you plan to invest in a pool pump for your pool.
Size/Flow Rate
Pool pumps come in different sizes, and based on the size of your pool, you need to find a pump that is powerful enough to keep your pool clean.
You can find out about the size of your pump by gauging the flow rate, which is often based on GPM (gallons per minute) or GPH (gallons per hour). Depending upon the size of your pool, go for a pump that has an adequate flow rate.
If your pool is too big, you need a pump with a higher flow rate, or else, you will notice algae growth or debris accumulation in your pool. Moreover, if your pool is too large for your pump to handle, it will have to work harder, and even then, you will not achieve the required results.
Therefore, finding out your pool pump’s right size is the first and most important thing that you need to consider as you make your pool pump purchase decision.
You can do this by calculating the volume of water in your pool (measured in gallons). In case the volume is not stated, you can always calculate it by multiplying the pool’s dimensions.
Once you have the volume, you need to divide it by the turnover rate you want (in minutes), and the resultant will give you the flow rate in GPM. And when you know your desired flow rate, finding out the most suitable pool pump will become easier.
Installation Requirements
Pool pumps may have varied installation requirements. Either they are wired or can be plugged in, but different pool pumps have different needs.
Many pool pumps require wiring into your existing electrical system. However, you can also find out pool pumps that can be plugged into an outlet instead.
Your preference for the pool pump’s installation will depend upon several factors, including the type of pool (above-ground or inground) and whether you plan to set up a pool permanently or on a seasonal basis.
In case of larger, professional pools with a higher volume of water, wired pumps are better suited. In contrast, a plug-in pump is best for smaller, temporary pool setups.
Inground or Above-Ground Pool
Certain pool pumps are specifically designed for inground pools only, but some pool pumps come with the maunfacturer’s recommendation of keeping the pump in a weather-protected area.
In either case, it is crucial to find out whether your pool pump is suitable for inground pools or above-ground pools. By skipping this important piece of information, you may be putting yourself and your equipment at risk.
Speed Settings
You can find out pool pumps with a single or variable speed option.
While some pool pumps give an exceptional performance at a single speed, few have unsatisfactory operation despite having variable speed options.
Make sure you check the speed settings before you purchase a pool pump. And while speed options is an important consideration, you should also keep an eye on other settings essential for cleaning such as backflow and other programmable options (including automatic timers)
In almost all cases, pool pumps with advanced options particularly automation are generally more expensive but also add to the convenience.
Power
Based on the pool’s size and the maximum flow rates you require, you will need pool pumps that provide adequate power. Usually measured in horsepower or voltage rating, you will need a pump with higher power for higher flow rates.
With that said, it is essential to remember that higher power also resonates in the form of more energy consumption by the pump. But fortunately, you can find several energy-efficient alternatives.
Moreover, power is a critical consideration because you surely don’t want a pump that overpowers your pool and results in higher energy costs, so go a pump that provides sufficient power without overpowering your pool.
With these five considerations in mind, you can surely find the best pool pump for your pool.
Pool Pump FAQ
What is the Best Type of Pool Pump?
There are several brands of pool pumps that you can find in the market, but apart from the differences in features, there are three different types of pool pumps that you can find.
And before we get into the details of which one is the best type of pool pump, let’s look at some of the key differences between each of the three pool pump types.
Single Speed Pool Pump
As the name suggests, single-speed pool pumps operate at a constant speed that you cannot change. And perhaps the best part about this type of pool pump is that they are not as expensive as pool pumps with variable speed options.
While they may be pocket friendly, single-speed pool pumps are quite expensive to operate as they are not energy efficient. But in either case, they know how to do their job.
Dual-Speed Pool Pump
Dial-speed pool pumps operate at two different fixed speeds, high and low. You can adjust the rate depends upon the purpose.
And while they are slightly more expensive than single speed pool pumps, you can manage the operational cost by running such pumps at a higher speed.
Variable-Speed Pool Pump
Variable pool pumps are designed to handle complex pool applications and can adjust the speed according to the needs.
Such pool pumps give exceptional performance, are super quiet, and have an extended life. However, all these desirable features come at a cost that is a higher price.
The Best One!
Considering the desirable features, it is safe to assume that a pool pump with variable speed options is the best; however, it may not be the best one for a small pool with limited, infrequent users. Therefore, the best type of pool pump depends upon your pool.
If you have a large pool that is a commercial facility, then it is best to have a dual-speed or variable-speed pool pump, but if you are looking for a pool pump for maintaining a small pool in your backyard, then a single speed pool pump will suffice.
What Kind of Pool Pump Do I Need?
Your choice of the right pool pump for your pool depends upon several factors, including.
- Your pool size
- Pool setup (whether permanent/temporary and inground/above-ground)
- Budget (for initial investment and maintenance cost) and
- Required flow rate.
How Long Does a Pool Pump Last?
The average life span of a pool pump can range between 8 – 10 years. This means that your pool pump will need a complete replacement after that; however, your pool pump may last longer (or not) depending upon the following factors,
- Your pool size,
- Pool pump usage,
- The material of the pump and
- Pool and pump maintenance.
Do Above Ground Pools Need a Pool Pump?
It has been mentioned quite a few times that your pool pump is like the heart of your pool’s circulation system, so whether you have an inground pool or an above-ground pool, you need a pool pump in either case.
Again the type of pool pump that you will need depends upon several factors such as your pool size and volume of the water.
Should You Buy a Pool Pump With or Without a Filter?
Filters keep all unwanted and undesirable contaminants out of the pool, and without filters, it is only natural to have cloudy and dirty water.
Since a filter is essential for cleaning the water and a pump flows water through the filter, both filter, and pump work together, it is best to go for a pool pump with filters to enjoy a cleaner and healthier pool.
That’s a Wrap!
Having a place to swim is perhaps the best thing you can ask for, especially during summers, and since no one wants to dive in a dirty pool, this makes finding the best pool pumps a necessity.
Whether you have an inground pool or above ground pool, you are now more confident to choose the right one with this guide.
