Does An Above Ground Pool Need A Pump?

Ever tried swimming in a giant puddle? That’s your deep above ground pool without a pump — even the deep ones. Yes, you definitely need a pump to keep water clean, safe, and swimmable. Stick around to find out how pumps work, what to choose, and how to keep yours running smoothly.

The Indispensable Role of a Pool Pump

Why a Pump is Crucial for Pool Health

A pool without a pump is like a bath no one ever drains.
Sure, it looks alright for a bit… but give it a few days and it’s a whole different story.

That’s because pool water needs to move.
Still water turns quickly.
It becomes the perfect playground for algae, bacteria, and all the things you don’t want floating around your family.

Circulating Water for Filtration

The pump pulls water through your pool’s filtration system.
It catches leaves, bugs, dirt — you name it.
Without this steady flow, your filter just sits there, doing nothing.

Think of it like your pool’s heart. No circulation? No cleanliness.

Distributing Chemicals Evenly

Ever poured chlorine in and hoped for the best?
Without a pump, that chlorine just sits in one area — too strong in one corner, too weak everywhere else.

A pump spreads it around.
This keeps your water balanced and safe, with no eye-stinging surprises.

Preventing Stagnant Water and Algae Growth

Stagnant water = smelly water.
It’s where algae bloom and bacteria throw parties.

A working pump stops all that.
It keeps everything moving — clean, fresh, and ready for a swim at any time.

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How a Pool Pump Works

Drawing Water from the Skimmer/Main Drain

First, the pump pulls water from your skimmer or main drain.
This is where surface gunk like leaves or suncream slicks collect.

It’s the first step in your pool’s clean-up routine.

Pushing Water Through the Filter and Back to the Pool

Next, that dirty water flows through a filter.
Depending on your setup, it’s either a cartridge or sand filter.

Once it’s cleaned, the pump sends it back into the pool — fresh and filtered.

This loop keeps going all day, quietly doing the hard work while you relax.

Types of Pool Pumps (Single-Speed, Dual-Speed, Variable Speed)

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Single-speed: Cheapest to buy, but pricy to run long-term. Runs at one speed all the time.

• Dual-speed: Has low and high settings — better control and saves on bills.

• Variable-speed: Top tier. Adjusts based on what your pool needs. Quiet, energy-saving, and long-lasting.

For deep or large above ground pools, variable-speed is usually worth it.

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Choosing and Maintaining Your Above Ground Pool Pump

Sizing the Pump Correctly

Matching Pump GPM to Filter Size

Your pump and filter need to work in sync.
If your pump pushes too much water, the filter can’t keep up.
Too little? It doesn’t clean fast enough.

Always check the GPM (gallons per minute) rating of both.

Considering Pool Volume and Turnover Rate

Want clean water all day?
Make sure your pump can cycle all the pool water every 6–8 hours.

To figure this out, know your pool’s volume — then pick a pump that can handle it without struggling.

Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs

In the UK, energy prices aren’t exactly pool-party friendly.
That’s why efficient pumps matter.

• Cartridge pumps: Good for smaller pools, around £50–£75/year to run.

• Sand pumps: Better for larger setups, often £30–£60/year.

• Variable-speed: Most efficient, as low as £20–£40/year — and quieter too.

It’s a bigger upfront cost, but you’ll save in the long run.

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Common Pump Issues and Troubleshooting

Loss of Prime

If the pump suddenly stops pulling water, it may have “lost prime.”
That’s usually caused by low water level or air sneaking into the system.

Check hoses, fittings, and make sure the skimmer’s not dry.

Leaks and Noises

Loud humming or water dripping from the pump?
Could be loose fittings, a cracked housing, or a clogged impeller.

Don’t ignore the sounds — pumps are surprisingly talkative when something’s wrong.

Electrical Problems

Pump not turning on? Tripping the circuit breaker?
Check the fuse, cable condition, and whether the socket’s protected from rain.

When in doubt, call a professional — electricity and water aren’t a mix worth gambling with.

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Routine Pump Maintenance

Cleaning Skimmer Baskets and Pump Strainer Basket

These get filled fast — especially during leaf-blown autumn or pollen-heavy spring.
A clogged basket slows your pump down and can lead to overheating.

Quick weekly checks go a long way.

Inspecting Connections and Seals

Pump seals wear out.
So do hose clamps, O-rings, and washers.

Once a month, take five minutes to scan for drips or loose parts.
Catching a small issue early is far easier (and cheaper) than replacing the whole pump.

Winterisation Procedures

Before frost sets in, drain your pump completely.
Disconnect it, dry it, and store it somewhere warm and dry.

Leaving it out over winter? That’s the fast track to cracks and breakdowns.

 

Have you checked out our other posts?

Can You Put An Above Ground Pool In The Ground?

Can Above Ground Pools Be Put On Concrete?

Can Above Ground Pools Be Moved?