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Learn More About Pool Pumps

Types of  Pool Pumps

Choosing the correct pump for your pool is just as important as the filter. The size and shape of the pool, type of installation, orientation to the water level, and distance from the pool will determine the correct pump for your needs. Picking one that is too small will not properly circulate the water in the pool. This again will make the pool work and not fun.  When your pool was built, your builder will have determined the proper sizing for your pump based on the conditions above.  When replacing it, it is important to make sure that you are getting a pump that has an equivalent capacity.
With pumps, there are only 2 primary types to consider. These are self-priming or gravity fed pumps.
Self-priming pumps are used in any pool installation where the pump will be above the water level. These are the standard on almost every In-ground pool with rare Above-ground pool uses. “Priming” a pump is the process of filling the pump housing with water so it is able to suck water in and recirculate it back to the pool. When a pump is installed above the pool, there will always be air in the lines when the pump or filter is opened.  Simply filling a gravity fed pump with water will not remove the air from the lines. A self-priming pump is capable of vacuuming the air out of the lines and bringing the water in on its own. These pumps are generally more expensive due to the additional parts and design necessary to make it self-priming. Historically, these pumps were available in 1, 1 ½, and 2 HP. In the last couple of years, however, the Department of Energy has required almost all pumps to now be variable speed pumps.  This is to help reduce the energy consumption on aging power grids.  These pumps are more expensive, but the energy savings will easily cover the cost difference over the life of the pump.  Currently, we offer In-ground self priming pumps in 1HP one speed and 1.4, 1.65, or 2.7 HP variable speed pumps.  Our Waterway Champion In-ground self-priming pumps come with unions for 2” pipe and an adjustable foot for easy installation. 

Gravity fed pumps are typically referred to as “Above Ground Pool” pumps. These pumps will always be installed below the waterline of the pool. The water from the pool naturally flows into the pump and is then pumped through the filter and back into the pool. When initially installed, the air in the strainer pot will need to be released to “prime” or fill the pump with water. When the pump is turned on, it will immediately start pumping water back into the pool. Our Waterway Hi-Flow pumps come in 1 BHP 1 speed and 2 BHP 2 speed High Efficiency with 1 ½” internal threads for plumbing. Above ground pools typically only have one return jet back into the pool from the filter. Because of this, larger pools and oval shaped pools will require a larger pump to push the water around the pool. Also, a larger pump is beneficial for vacuuming and cleaning the pool as well. The available 2 speed pumps give you the best options when maintaining your pool. These pumps can run on low speed 24hrs a day providing constant filtration and using up to 50% less power than a single speed pump would use running for just 8-10 hrs. In high speed, these pumps work just like a single speed pump and provide the strongest suction and water movement when needed.

Learn More About Pool Pumps

There are several variables to consider when choosing a pool pump. At Bonnie & Clyde’s, we do not sell pools with inadequate filtration systems. Each of our pools packages were designed with economy and ease of maintenance in mind. However, it is not a bad idea to upgrade your pump and filter if you desire.