Above ground pools are a great thing, they provide hours of fun for the family throughout much of the year. However, they must be maintained, finding the best above ground pool pump for your particular pool will make maintenance a much more simple process.
This guide will run you through the very best above ground pool pumps on the market today. As the heartbeat of your pool, you want to ensure you get the very best pump within your budget. Thankfully, this guide offers everything from high-end pumps to budget-friendly options.
Best Above Ground Pool Pump 2019
The Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter is specifically designed for above ground pools. The all-natural sand provides excellent water filteration, leaving your pool water clean, soft and refreshing, all year round.
This pump features six different settings that will allow you to filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system should you ever need to. It also has a 24-hour timer which helps you effectivly manage the filtering of the pool throughout the day.
The Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter also includes a strainer basket, which allows for easy cleaning, while also prologing the life of the sand. This pump requires virtually zero mainenance, apart from a change of sand every 5 years. The perfect choice for those who want a hassle free pool.
The powerful pump will work well on just about any size above ground pool. Easily filtering pools up to 19,600 gallons in size, while pumping 3,000 gallons of water per hour (smaller versions are available if you have a smaller pool).
As you would expect, the Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump has a whole host of other cool features. These include a built-in ground fault circuit interrupter with safety shut off and two 1.5 inch connector hoses.
| What's Great About The Intex Krystal Clear Filter Pool Pump | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Specifically designed for above ground pools | ||||
| Auto timer with 2 to 12 hour cycles | ||||
| Incredibly low maintenance | ||||
| Includes an easy to clean, replaceable filter cartridge |
The Hayward PowerFlo Matrix is a high-performance pool pump specifically designed for above ground pools. Unsurprisingly this model comes absolutely packed with great features which will keep your pool running smoothly throughout the year.
The industrial size strainer basket that comes with this pool pump will mean you won’t have to empty it as often as your typical size strainer basket. Perfect for those who want the fun of an above ground pool but without the hassle.
The heavy-duty motor, provides high-performance and trouble-free operation thanks to its intergrated automatic thermal overload protector. This feature will shut dfown the motor in abnormal conditions, long efore any damage can occur. The motor will then auto-restart when a safer heat level is reached. With a single push of a button, this truly versatile pump changes from a vertical to a horizontal discharge and back again.
Overall, the Hayward PowerFlo Matrix is perfect for those with larger pools, or those who simply want less hassle from their pool.
| What's Great About The Hayward PowerFlo Matrix Pool Pump | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-quality pump specifically designed for above ground pools | ||||
| Powerful 1.5 HP pump | ||||
| Features an industrial-size strainer basket | ||||
| Features integral automatic thermal overload protector |
The Harris ProForce Pool Pump is designed for above ground pools. It features a 1.5 HP motor and advanced engineering which provides both high efficiency and minimal noise. At a fraction of the cost of many other similar pumps, the Harris ProForce Pool Pump is a very affordable option.
The pump is made from heavy-duty, corrosion-proof materials. The stainless steel motor shaft is constructed with a reinforced thermoplastic body for longer life and durability.
This easy to use pool pump features a strainer with a large, easy-to-clean filter basket. As well as a see-through, twist and lock lid for easy viewing of the strainer.
If you’ re looking for a very affordable pool pump, which is both high-quality and long-lasting, then the Harris ProForce Pool Pump is a great choice.
| What's Great About The Harris ProForce Pool Pump | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Designed specifically for above ground pools | ||||
| Offers great quality at a very affordable price | ||||
| Easy to clean filter basket | ||||
| Powerful 1.5 HP motor |
The XtremepowerUS Sand Filter System is designed specifically for above ground pools. It uses up to 175lbs of sand to keep your water cyrstal clear, filtering out even the smallest pieces of debris.
The pump itself will filter upto 4500 gallons per hour, making it powerful enough for even the largest above ground pools. The heavy-duty, high-performance motor also features air-flow ventitaltion for far quiter and cooler operation. It also features a built-in automatic thermal overload protector.
The strainer basket on this above ground pool pump also happens to be the largest in its class, with an easy open, quick look, transparent pump lid. Thanks to it’s large size you won’t have to clear it out anywhere near as often as you would with other, far smaller, strainer baskets.
If you are after a heavy-duty above ground pool pump that won’t break the bank, then the XtremepowerUS Sand Filter Pump is a great option.
| What's Great About The XtremepowerUS Sand Filter Pump | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powerful pump that will filter up to 4500 gallons per hour | ||||
| Built-in automatic thermal overload protector | ||||
| Largest strainer basket in its class | ||||
| Very affordable price |
The In The Swim Hayward Powerflo above ground pool pump is a high-performance 1.5 horsepower pump. This pump features a durable, corrosion-proof design that is built to last for years, while also offering maximum power and perfromance at an affordable price.
Specifically designed for use with above ground pools, the pump has a transparent strainer cover that allows you to easily view how full the pump basket is without the need for removing it.
Other features inlcude a high-performance impeller and heat-resistant, drip-proof double-sized seal that will extend the lifespan of the motor.
| What's Great About The In The Swim Hayward Powerflo | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Specifically designed for above ground pools | ||||
| Corrosion-proof components | ||||
| Transparent strainer cover for easy checking | ||||
| Comes with replacement Lid O-Ring |
The Hayward W3SP1780 Pool Pump is a 1 HP pump designed specifically for use with above ground pools. This pump features a heavy-duty motor with stainless- steel motor shaft and automatic thermal overload protector. Corrosion-proof, reinforced thermoplastic housing protects the pump from any adverse weather conditions.
Other features inlcude a large 118 cubic-inch strainer basket with a quick release see-thru strainer cover and rain plug for easy mainteence. Features typically found only on higher priced in-ground pool pumps.
Overall it’s fair to say the Hayward W3SP1780 above ground pool pump offers a lot high-end features at a very reasonable price. For those with smaller pools, smaller pumps are available, including 0.5 HP and 0.75 HP pumps.
| What's Great About The Hayward W3SP1780 Pool Pump | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy-duty motor with stainless steel motor shaft | ||||
| Automatic thermal overload protector | ||||
| 100% drip proof, heat-resistant double-sized seal for long motor life | ||||
| Large strainer basket |
The Swimline Sand Master Above Ground Pool System is designed especially for soft sided swimming pools. The Sand Master features a 20GPM pump that will filter pools up to 9,600 gallons in size.
This pump features rust and corrosion-proof 12″ tank that can hold up to 42 lbs of sand, allowing it to keep your pool water crystal clear and free of any debris.
The Swimline Sand Master Above Ground Pool System also features a four position multiport valve, and system base with pump-to-filter hose and fittings. It also comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
| What's Great About The Swimline Sand Master Above Ground Pool Filter System | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20GPM pump that will filter pools up to 9,600 gallons in size | ||||
| 4 position multi-port valve | ||||
| Rust and corrosion proof | ||||
| 1-year manufacturers warranty |
The Intex 28644EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump was specifically designed to work with above ground pools. This pump will will work on pools up to 15,200 gallons in size, while filtering 2,500 gallons of water per hour.
Easy installation and maintenance makes this above ground pool pump the perfect choice for those who prefer a hands off approach. Installation requires no more than attaching a hose, while on-going maintenance is nothing more than cleaning the filter cartridge once per week.
Other features of the Intex 28644EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump include an auto timer with preset 2 and 12 hour cycles, a sediment flush valve and a Hydro Aeration Technology inlet fitting. Hydro Aeration Technology improves water clarity, circulation and filteration.
| What's Great About The Intex 28633EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy installation and maintenance | ||||
| Auto timer with preset 2 and 12 hour cycles | ||||
| Hydro Aeration Technology inlet fitting | ||||
| Designed specifically for above ground pools up to 15,200 gallons in size |
The Goplus 13″ Sand Filter Pump is specifically designed for above ground pools. The 13″ tank has the capacity for 45lbs of sand, which will in turn filter pools up to 10,000 gallons in size, leaving your pool water crystal clear.
The sand filter pump features 4-function control valves to provide excellent water filtration, allowing the pool owner to filter, backwash, rinse and waste, to meet your different needs.
Simple installtion makes installing the Goplus 13″ Sand Filter Pump a breeze. While this pump may not offer the bells and whistles of far more expensive models, it is a good, low-cost option for those who want something simple and inexpesnive.
| What's Great About The Pentair Dynamo 1.5 Horsepower Above Ground Pool Pump | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reinforced fiberglass construction for strength and durability | ||||
| See-through lid and extra-large strainer basket extends time between cleanings | ||||
| Offers a highly sought-after combination of efficient performance and longevity. | ||||
| Simple to install |
The Pentair Dynamo 1.5 Horsepower Above Ground Pool Pump sets a high standard for pool pumps, offering a highly sought-after combination of efficent performance and longevity.
By minimizing friction and water turbulence, the Pentair Dynamo pump provides highly effective operation while using lower horsepower motors. As a result, Pentair Dynamo pool pumps make less noise and lower operating costs making it the ideal choice for quality-conscious pool owners.
Other features include a large transparent strainer lid with ergonomic handle for easy inspection. Oversize strainer basket which will require emptying less often as well as reinforced fiberglass construction.
| What's Great About The Goplus 13" Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suitable for pools up to 10,000 gallons | ||||
| 4-function control valves to provide excellent water filtration | ||||
| Simple installation and maintenance | ||||
| Affordable price |
Best Above Ground Pool Pump – Buyers Guide
The Size Of Your Pool
When choosing a pump, always chose one that fits your pool size. Buying a pump that is designed for larger pools will just be a waste of money. A larger pump does not mean it will filter the water quicker, or better.
The same goes for trying to save money by buying a pump too small for your pool. It may save you money, but it will not be able to filter the water, leading to possible contmination.
Buying the right size pump, will save you money and ensure your pool is filtered correctly, all day, every day.
To find out what size pump you require, you simply need to fidn out how many gallons of water your pool holds. You probably aready know this, but if not, you can find the information in the user guide or online.
To get the right flowrate, you need to take the total number of gallons, then divide it by eight. Most pumps are rated by gallons per minute. To get the right pump, take your flow rate and divide it by sixty. This will give you the rate per minute. From this number, you can choose the best above ground pool pump to suit your needs.
Pump Speed
The pump speed is dictated by the needs of your above ground pool. There are threee options when it comes to the speed of the pump: single-speed, dual-speed and variale-speed. Each speed has its advantages and disadvantages.
A single-speed pump runs at a single speed. This speed will use more power tha lower speeds, which means spending more money on electricity.
A dual-speed pump gives you the option of both low-speed and high-speed. Using the high-speed option is the same as running it at single-speed. However, the lower speed option will allow you to save money.
A variable speed pump will undoubetdly cost you more money, however it will save money in the long run. These types of pump have more than just one or two speed options.
If budget is not an issue, then a variable speed pump is nearly always your best option.