If you own a backyard pool or manage a hotel pool, keeping it clean and safe is a big task. One device that can make your work easier is a pool pump.

But you must be wondering what these pool pumps are and how they can help you.

What Is A Pool Pump?

A pool pump is a device that keeps your swimming pool water clean and safe by circulating it through a filtration system. It fills the pool with clean, filtered water and removes dirt, debris, and harmful particles while distributing chlorine to maintain hygiene.

Without a proper circulation system, dust, debris, and other particles can settle at the bottom of swimming pools and can lead to bacterial and algae growth.

That’s why investing in the right pool pump is so important. It’s not just about keeping your pool clean; it’s about creating a safe and comfortable swimming experience where you can relax without worrying about bacteria, algae, or unclean water ruining your experience.

Now that we know why a pool pump is so essential. Let’s understand how it works and the different types of pool pumps that are available.

Components Of A Pool Pump

The standard pool pump components are:

1)- Pump Housing

The pump housing is a protective layer around the pool pumps. It protects the inner parts of the pump, prevents leaks, and shields the pump from damage. It is also known as a pool pump kennel.

2)- Motor

The motor develops a force that helps to rotate the impeller, pull water into the pump, and discharge from the pump. These motors can be single-speed, dual-speed, or variable-speed.

3)- Impeller

An impeller is a round, spinning device with blades or vanes. When it spins at high speed, it pulls water into the pump through the inlet and then pushes it out through the outlet.

Read About: Types Of Pump Impellers

4)- Diffuser

The diffuser is a non-moving part around the impeller. It helps to reduce the velocity of the water inside the pumps and changes the developed kinetic energy of air due to impeller movement into static pressure.

5)- Pump Basket

A pump basket helps to collect discarded matter and protect the impellers from damage and clogs.

6)- Pump Seal

A pump seal or mechanical seal prevents water leaks.

How Does A Pool Pump Work? (What Does A Pool Pump Do?)

The pump circulates the water through heaters, skimmers, and a pool filtration system that helps to clean water in pools. The heaters heat the pool water by transferring heat without producing harmful emissions like carbon monoxide.

The skimmers collect waste matter such as hair, leaves, and sunscreen from the surface, preventing it from sinking to the bottom.

The collected debris is sent through the filtration system, which removes finer particles and contaminants. The pump ensures that water is continuously pulled, heated, treated, filtered, and returned to the pool, maintaining its cleanliness and balance.

What Does A Pool Filter Do?

The pool filtration helps to remove dirt, algae, bacteria, and other contaminants. If these impurities in the swimming pool are not removed, they can lead to the colour of the water turning green. 

The three types of filtration systems are used in swimming pools.

a)- Sand Pool Filters

Sand pool filters trap impurities and debris in the sand bed during water flow. They are durable and require little maintenance.

b)- Cartridge Pool Filters

These filters use a pleated fabric cartridge that helps to trap minute particles when water moves through it. It is an easy and efficient process to remove contaminants from the water.

c)- Diatomaceous Earth Pool Filters

These filters use porous fine powder made with diatomaceous earth material. It creates a filtration surface that captures the smallest particles in the water flow through it.

Types Of Pool Pumps

The pumps are used in pools according to the requirements of the pools.

1)- Single Speed Pool Pumps

Single-speed pool pumps flow water at a constant speed. They are powerful pumps that run at high speeds and are suitable for most pools. They are also inexpensive and easy to install in limited spaces.

2)- Two-Speed Pool Pumps

Two-speed pumps run at two constant speeds, high and low. The speed setting of pumps depends upon the requirement of pools. At the lower speed, they keep fresh water and continue circulation. The higher speed is used to handle the pool cleaner.

3)- Variable-Speed Pumps

Variable-speed pumps are the most efficient. They adjust the speeds automatically according to the requirement. They are used for complex pool applications. Despite using less energy, they are the most expensive pumps.

You May Also Read: Classification Of Different Types Of Pumps

Should Pool Pumps Run 24×7?

No. Pool pumps do not need to run 24/7. Even 8 hours per day, especially in summer, is sufficient for the pool’s circulation and filtration process.

Opening the pumps at night (off-peak electricity hours) helps ensure good water quality and reduces maintenance. The timer settings help open the pumps for a short period at intervals, which can help clean the pool and distribute chemicals equally.

Factors like the size of the pool, usage, weather, and the type of filtration system affect the runtime of the pumps.

How Much Does A Pool Pump Cost To Run?

The operating cost depends on the size and running time of the pumps. However, the average monthly cost ranges between $30 and $150 if the pump has a power of between 1500 and 2500 watts and runs for 8 hours per day.

Some factors affect the cost of pool pumps, such as location, pump types, pump size, and running time.

• The electricity bill rates and the climate of the location affect the cost.
• Using single pool pumps is more costly than double-speed and variable-speed motors.
• The larger pumps are more costly than the shorter ones because they need more energy.
• The running time also affects the cost. Depending on the pool filtration systems and water quality, the pump may need to be run for more time than the average.

You May Also Read: How To Calculate The Pump Flow Rate?

Conclusion

Regular checks and proper pump maintenance at times are important to ensure your pool pump is working properly.

A well-maintained pool pump with a better filtration system can help remove debris. Neglecting debris in your pool can lead to clogging, leaks, reduced performance, and increased energy consumption. It also promotes the growth of algae and bacteria in pools. 

Regular checks and maintenance can help overcome these problems. Consistent checks ensure your pump stays in good working condition, preventing permanent failure or unnecessary wear and tear. Investing in a small maintenance cost will help you improve your pumps’ efficiency and lifespan.