Questions on Pool Pumps
- Pool pumps are nevessary to help keep the water safe.Swimming pool and pool house image by Jim Mills from Fotolia.com
Pool pumps direct water through filtration systems that can then clean and disinfect the water. There are different types of pumps tailored to the size and type of pool or spa. There are several commonly-asked questions relating to pool pumps. - One question frequently asked about pumps is whether the pump can operate when there isn't water in it. Usually the answer is no because the water helps keep the pump cool, so the pump could overheat and cease working if it is operating without water flowing through it. An overheating pool pump can start making excessive noise and might even smoke slightly. Turn the pump off immediately and don't start it again until water is flowing into it.
- The answer to how many hours a day a pump should run depends on several factors, including the size of the pool, how many swimmers are usually in the water and the filter flow rate. A general rule of thumb is to run the pump 8 to 10 hours a day during peak times of the year, such as the summer, and then run it 4 to 6 hours a day in off seasons to ensure proper water turnover.
- The effect on the electric bill is a common question among new pool owners because the pool does require significant electricity to keep the pump working and water properly filtering. Some filtration systems require 24 hours of operation to properly filter the pool. Most systems can do the job in 8 to 12 hours and are more energy efficient as a result. Electric costs for a pool can be cut up to 15 percent with an energy-efficient pump and improved filtration system.
