Best Pool Pump - Solar and Electric Sand and Cartridge Filter Pool Pumps for Inground and Above Ground Swimming Pools

In order to keep your pool water clean and fresh, you need a reliable pool pump. With so many pumps on the market, it can be hard to differentiate the good from the bad without examining the features of each pump. To simplify your selection process, we have done thorough research on the best pool pump brands available on the market and prepared a list of five pool pumps worth your consideration.

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Overview

PROS

CONS

SPECS

Type

Motor

Flow Rate

Speed

Size

Our Top Choice

Jandy FloPro Swimming Pool Pump

The history of the Jandy brand dates back to 1958. The company is renowned for its landmark invention of the automatic pool cleaner.

This pool pump is made with high-quality thermoplastic material. It is durable and resistant to corrosion.

On the downside, this pool pump can overheat.

In-ground Pool Pump

2.0 HP

9000 GPH

Single Speed

27.19” x 12.75” x 10”; 54.6 lbs.

Best Value

Intex Sand Filter Pool Pump

Intex Recreation Corp has been in operation for more than 40 years. The company specializes in production and sale of above-ground pools & spars and airbeds.

This pool pump comes in a durable plastic construction. It is easy to install and operate.

Unfortunately, the pool pump does not come with plunger valves or a backwash hose.

Above Ground Pool Pump

0.95 HP

3000 GPH

Single-Speed

34.3” x 17.5” x 17.13”; 51 lbs.

Pentair IntelliFlo Pool Pump

Pentair is arguably a seasoned global leader in manufacturing fluid control systems with both domestic and industrial applications.

This pool pump is made of durable thermoplastic. It offers quiet and highly efficient operation.

The drawbacks associated with this pool pump include high retail price and somewhat difficult installation.

In-ground Pump

3 HP

9000 GPH

Variable Speed

23.4” x 12.5” x 10.78”; 45 lbs.

Hayward Super Pump Pool Pump

Hayward is globally renowned for making technologically advanced pool equipment. The company has been in operation for more than 80 years.

This pool pump features a strong plastic construction. It is easy to install and maintain.

Unfortunately, the filters of this pump are sold separately.

In-ground Pump

1.5 HP

4980 GPH

Single Speed

25.1” x 10.9” x 7.6”; 39.2 lbs.

Pooline Inground Self Priming Pump

Tianjin Pool & Spa Corporation trades as Pooline Products. The company focuses on providing quality and affordable pool products to the American market.

The body of this pool pump is made with reinforced thermoplastic. It is resistant to corrosion and easy to maintain.

The disadvantage of this pool pump is that it comes with a short ground screw.

In-ground

1.5 HP

5280 GPH

Self-priming

16” x 16” x 11”; 36.45 lbs.

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What Is the Best Pool Filter Pump? Read Our Pool Pump Reviews to Find the Right One for Your Pool

Armed with top-notch secrets on how to select the best pool pump in the market, let us look at the features of the selected top 5 pool pumps from leading brands. It is import that you keep in mind your pool requirements to make sure you get a pump that will meet your needs. Each of the featured pool pumps has salient qualities that make them unique in terms of performance.

Save on pool products & supplies at IntheSwim.

Related: Fun Pool Games to Keep Your Kids Entertained This Summer – PLUS Best Above Ground Pool Video Review

Our Top Choice

The Jandy FloPro Swimming Pool Pump is practically noise-free and its small size allows for easy storage. It can be purchased alone or with the sand tank. Just need to replace a pool filter valve? Take a look at the Jandy 4715 3-Port 1-1\/2 to 2-Inch Positive Seal NeverLube Valve.

Jandy FloPro Single Speed Swimming Pool Pump – Available in 4 Sizes

Features

With more than 50 years’ experience in manufacturing pool equipment, the Jandy company has grown to become a respected leader in the industry. Some of its products include pool filters, lighting systems, and automatic pool cleaning solutions. Consumers trust Jandy products because they are highly versatile and reliable.

The Jandy FHPM 2.0 Pool Pump comes in a compact design that makes it an ideal choice for areas with limited spaces. It comes with an adjustable base and costs only $527.49.

In addition, the features listed below make this pool pump a valuable investment:

Its cam-lock is ergonomically designed for easy alignment.
Has 2-inch unions and its internal threading is 2”
Has a built-in filter basket for trapping pool debris
Comes with brackets for easy handling
Comes in an energy-efficient design
Its installation is easy
Comes with a 90-day manufacturer’s warranty

Do not shy away from buying pool lights made by Jandy as you shop for a pool pump.

Not sure this pump suits you? Feel free to explore the whole range of Jandy pool pumps and pick the right one for you.

Best Value

The Intex Sand Filter Pool Pump is specially designed for use in 2600 to 8500-gallon above-ground pools and has six functions. Are you looking for a double-insulated filter pool pump? We recommend the Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump. It comes with a flow rate of 2500 GPH (other sizes available).

Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools – Available in 4 Sizes

Features

Intex Company is committed to providing high-quality products that are affordable, safe, and comfortable to use. The company has embraced innovation in order to meet the ever-increasing market demands and provide better solutions. Intex uses materials with reduced fossil fuel content so as to support global efforts towards a sustainable environment.

The Intex 28651EG Pool Pump comes with highly durable and cost-efficient sand filters. They are designed to serve you for five years without replacement. The filtration chamber of this pool pump is fitted with a special six-way control valve for optimal performance. It retails at an affordable price of $318.00.

Below are features that make this pump a real asset to its owners:

Comes with an automatic operation capability
Fitted with a strainer basket for hassle-free pool cleaning and protection
It does not require maintenance except when replacing sand filter
Has built-in pressure gauge
Designed for low-noise operation
Comes with a 30-day return guarantee

If you are a parent, take this opportunity to surprise your kids with pool toys from Intex.

This pump doesn’t suit you? Check all pool pumps by Intex and get the right one for you.

The Pentair IntelliFlo Pool Pump has a built-in timer for hassle-free operation and has eight speed settings to choose from. Are you looking for a single-speed pump? Buy the Pentair 340039 SuperFlo. It comes with a 1.5 HP motor and retails at $370.21.

Pentair IntelliFlo Variable Speed High Performance Pool Pump, 3 Horsepower & 230 Volt – Available as a Bundle

Features

Pentair has been operation for more than 40 years. It is renowned for quality products that are certified for efficiency. These include water pumps, cleaning machines, and heaters. The company also provides automation solutions for easy management of some of its products.

The Pentair 011018 Pool Pump comes with eight speed settings that can be programmed to suit a wide range of pool sizes. It retails at $898.00 and is designed to save up to 90% of energy for minimum operating costs.

In addition, the features listed below attract many consumers to this pool pump:

Has a low noise level of 45dB
Comes with an integrated keypad for effortless control
Has an LCD display unit that show operating speed and wattage of the pump
Its motor features permanent magnet construction
Offers superior filtration for better water quality
Its motor comes in TEFC design for a longer service life
Comes with a 3-year warranty

Get adequate filters from Pentair for your pool pump.

Still not convinced that this is you want? Explore the whole range Pentair pool pumps and get one that suits your needs.

The Hayward Super Pump Pool Pump measures is specially built for in-ground pools and spas, and features a heavy-duty design. Are looking for a pool pump with variable speed settings? Get the Hayward SP2302VSP Max-Flo. It is energy star certified and comes with a time-clock feature for easy programing.

Hayward Super Pump Single-Speed Pool Pump – Available in 6 Sizes

Features

Hayward focuses on building pool equipment that is highly efficient, requires minimal maintenance, and gives you return for your investment. The company combines various technologies to give clients smart pool care solutions. Some of their products include filters, heaters, pool lighting solutions, and chlorine generators.

The Hayward SP2610X15 Pool Pump comes with a self-priming feature for easy operation. It is designed to operate continuously for 8-10 hours per day. This pump retails at an affordable price of $382.00.

Furthermore, the following features make many pool owners fall in love with this pump:

Its motor comes in an heavy-duty construction for unmatched performance
Its strainer cover is secured with hand knobs for easy removal
Has a transparent strainer cover for easy monitoring of debris basket levels
Designed to allow easy servicing
Comes with a stable mounting base
Its impeller is resistant to corrosion
Comes with 1-year limited manufacturer warranty

Treat yourself to quality pool heaters from Hayward as you shop for a pool pump.

This pump doesn’t quite suit you? Do not panic. Hayward has a wide range of pool pumps to pick from.

The Pooline Inground Self Priming Pump is built for use with high flow rate pools, and works for them efficiently. Looking for an above-ground pool pump? Buy the Pooline Energy Efficient 2 Speed Pump. It comes with a 1.5 HP motor and retails at $175.10.

Pooline 1.5 Horse Power Inground Self Priming Filtration Pump

Features

Besides pool pumps, Pooline Products supplies the industry with filter cartridges, water toys, and pool cleaning chemicals. The company focuses on manufacturing highly durable and affordable products to the delight of consumers. Customers love Pooline branded products because of their outstanding performance compared to their counterparts in the market.

The Pooline 12748 Pool Pump comes with a self-priming feature for easy operation. It also has a transparent debris basket lid. This assists in examining the leaf basket without opening the chamber. This pool pump retails at an affordable price of only $257.87. It is praised for its excellent performance and long service life.

Get yourself some pool cleaning equipment from Pooline as you shop for a pool product.

This pump doesn’t match your expectations? Browse through all Pooline pool pumps for an option that suits you.

Best Swimming Pool Pump Buying Guide – How to Pick a Filter Pump for Your Above or Inground Pool

Swimming comes with lots of benefits to the body. This is because besides building your strength, it’s one of the rare workouts that exercise your whole body. It also allows you to have fun with friends and family as you take a break from your daily schedule. The good thing is that you can invest in an in-ground swimming pool or an above ground pool and have limitless fun whenever you wish. You can also spice up your family swimming sessions with pool toys for the young ones to play with.

In order to make sure that your pool water remains fresh, you will need to connect to a quality pool pump that will give you a constant flow. Swimming pool pumps are classified into two broad types namely above ground and in-ground. This classification is based on the design of the pools. While a pool pump is not a substitute for pool cleaner, it can filter debris from the water. It’s thus wise to get one to make sure that your pool doesn’t accumulate dirt.

Video: 3 Steps To Choosing A New Pool Pump

How to Choose a Pool Pump. | Courtesy of Swimming Pool Steve

Price

The cost of a swimming pool pump depends on its design features such as motor size, flow rate, and operating speeds. For example, a single speed pump with a 1.5 HP motor can cost about $300. On the other hand, the price of an eight-speed pump with a 3 HP motor and power saving mechanism can go up to $900. Therefore, as the pump becomes superior in terms of power and efficiency, the more you should expect to spend on it.

This doesn’t mean that there are no cheap pool pumps on the market. However, you need to be careful with such products as they’re likely to come in inferior designs that can lead to operational problems such as overheating. The good news is that we haven’t included such pumps in our review, and, therefore, there’s no cause to worry when you choose to shop through the links provided here.

Features

When shopping for a pump, you need a device that can match the demands of your swimming pool. This is in terms of volume and likelihood of debris accumulation.

Here are the important features to look for in a pool pump:

Type – Is it an above ground or an in-ground pump?
Motor Power – Refers to the horsepower of the pump
Flow Rate – Volume of water the pump can pump in an hour
Speed – Operating speeds of the pump
Size – Dimensions and weight of the pump
Extras – Additional features such as filter design, built-in controls, etc.

These features will help you identify a pump that not only meets your pool demands but also one that you can afford.

Construction and Design

Swimming pool pumps commonly come in all metallic or thermoplastic and metallic construction. In the latter, thermoplastic/durable plastic is used for the body while metal is used on the motor. This helps bring down the cost and weight of the pump without compromising on its performance. These pumps usually have both inlet and outlet sections that are designed to connect well standard pipes. You, however, need to confirm the size and threading style which could be internal or external.

It’s important to note that the power of a motor affects the flow rate of the pump. It also determines how much power it consumes at any given time. While some pumps come in single-speed designs, advanced models feature multiple speeds. This means that you can determine how fast or slow you want it to run. Such pumps come with control panels that allow you to configure settings such as speed and voltage.

Most pumps are designed with a filtration chamber that traps debris and solid dirt from the pool. Such chambers often feature a strainer basket or sand filters. This chamber is easily accessible and will often feature a transparent cover that allows you to know when the basket is full. This way, your pump’s maintenance becomes easy as you don’t need to open it to know when you need to empty the debris basket.

Video: How Long Should You Run Your Pool Pump?.

How Long to Run a Pool Pump?. | Courtesy of Swim University

Performance and Ease of Use

Since you may need to move your pump at some point, it’s wise to look for designs with handling brackets. This makes it convenient to carry the pump from one place to another. In addition, compact-shaped pumps come in handy in places with limited space and are also convenient to store.

Advanced pump models that come with automatic operating modes require little or no attention/maintenance at all. They’ll save you precious time that you can spend on something else. When it comes to electricity costs, pumps that are power efficient help keep your operating expenses low. You’ll also not need to worry about motor sound if you go for pumps with noise-free/low noise operation.

Go back to the start of the reviews

Get the Best Pool Pump of 2023!

Having gone through our review on the best pool pumps, it’s our hope that you’ve not only been enlightened on the subject but also have found an option that suits you. The featured brands have a wide range of pumps to pick if you still wish to sample more options. Follow the links on this review for more details.

Our Top Choice

Jandy FloPro Swimming Pool Pump

Best Value

Intex Sand Filter Pool Pump

Pentair IntelliFlo Pool Pump

Hayward Super Pump Pool Pump

Pooline Inground Self Priming Pump

Pool Pump FAQs

What size pool pump do I need?

A couple of things can determine the size of pool pump you need. First, you’ll need to measure the volume of your particular pool. Once you get the approximate measurements, you’ll need to calculate the minimum flow rate for the pump. For this, consider how long the pump will run and the number of cycles your run per day. Divide the volume with the time in hours, and then divide it by 60 to get the flow rate per minute. Once you get the minimum flow rate, you can look for a pump with the corresponding specifications.

How long should I run my pool pump?

The average swimming pool should run efficiently at about 8 hours a day. The aim here is to ensure that all the water inside gets to go through the filter. If your pool is bigger, you might need to run the pump for longer to achieve this. Alternatively, you can opt to get a more powerful pump that will still achieve the same results using less time.

How to clean pool pump impeller?

Cleaning a pool pump impeller can be broken down into 4 major steps. Start by turning off the power at the circuit breaker to ensure safety. Remove the basket lid of the pump and the pump basket. Then Take a flexible wire and bend it over to form a hook. Insert the wire into the impeller ‘s opening and fish around for any debris or clogged material. Finally, replace the pump basket and fill the housing of the pump with water. Finally, close it with the pump lid and switch back the power.

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