What Size Pool Pump Do You Need?

What Size Pool Pump Do You Need?

Finding what size pool pump you need for your pool is easier said than done. Fortunately, we at Oasis Pool Maintenance in Las Vegas NV can help you find the right-sized pump for the job!

Calculate The Volume

Before you choose the correct pump, you’ll have to measure the volume of water in your pool. You do this by multiplying the length, by width, by average depth in feet. Once you have your calculation in cubic feet, multiply this by 28.31 liters to obtain your volume in liters. This can be easy with a rectangular pool, but a nightmare if it is oddly shaped. Here is a handy volume calculator to help.

Choosing the Right Speed

Once you know how big your pool is you need tow how much water your system needs to move every hour. The standard amount of time a system runs is 8 hours, so 28,310 liters (the amount of water in a 1000 cubic foot pool) divided by 8 hours is 3,538 liters. That means your system needs to circulate 3,538 liters every single hour.

Different pumps might list themselves as moving water in “Liters per minute.” If this is the case, take the amount needed to be pumped per hour and divide it by minute (i.e., 3538/60 = 58).

Some popular models also measure themselves in gallons per minute (GPM), so make sure to convert your liters into gallons beforehand. You will commonly see pump sizes:

  • 1.5 hp
  • 2 hp
  • 1-1.5 hp
  • 2.5 hp
  • 0.25 hp
  • 1.25 hp
  • 2800 GPH (gallons per hour)
  • 83 GPM

Bigger Not Always Better

You should only change to a bigger horsepower if your existing pump is too small. Using a lower HP, or horsepower, does not negatively affect your pool and is a good choice if you choose a variable speed filter.

These types of pumps allow you to circulate water at low power and for a longer duration throughout the day, which better prevents algae build-up compared to running it twice a day at set intervals.

Choosing a Trusted Pool Pump Brand

There are many pumps on the market and it can be very confusing to decide which brands are “good” brands. Some of the most popular brands are also the most reliable.

  • Hayward
  • Pentair
  • Intex
  • Everbilt
  • Doheney

Keep Your Pool Looking Amazing

Take the guesswork out of choosing a pump, and contact the pros at Oasis Pool Maintenance. We’ll help you choose the right pump, make all the calculations, and even replace your existing equipment so your pool stays clean and beautiful all year long.