Above Ground Swimming Pool Pumps – Solar Pool Cover Protects Your Good Times

Above ground swimming pool pumps are pump-filter units designed specially for above ground swimming pools. These units are easier to install as compared to the in-ground pool pumps, and are placed below the water line; on the ground, adjacent to the pool.

Above ground swimming pools are those pools that are installed above ground level. It is the cheapest option among the swimming pool types, and takes lesser time to install. These pools come in a variety of sizes, with models ranging from 10 ft to over 30 ft in diameter. They come in three basic shapes: rectangular, round and oval. They are beneficial when one does not wish to dig up the backyard and install an in-ground swimming pool. These pools are excellent for families who love to spend time playing water games. However, with entertainment and facility, certain responsibilities come as well. Swimming pool maintenance is crucial to keep the pool water clean, clear and free from waterborne illnesses. Poor pool cleaning can make swimming pools breeding grounds for bacteria and other disease causing micro-organisms.

Swimming pool filters and pumps are important tools, that work together to maintain the cleanliness of the pool. Pool pumps are available in different sizes and pumping capabilities, and are important because they circulate water in the pool to maintain constant water flow. This keeps bacteria and other germs out of the pool, thereby preventing several waterborne illnesses. They are the real heart of the pool, and their absence will lead to stagnant pools of slime. Moreover, pool pumps also ensure that the chemicals added are equally distributed throughout the water. This helps in maintaining the pool hygiene.

Above ground swimming pool pumps are different from the in-ground ones, as they have the pumps and filters sold as a single unit. They are generally positioned below the water line, that is, on the ground adjacent to the pool. This is because they have to force water upwards, as the pool itself is above the ground. The pumps and filters are attached to a common base and are less expensive than purchasing individual filters pumps. Above ground pool pumps feature a large filter basket (for dust collection), a high capacity motor and a thermal overload protector. These pumps require minimum maintenance.

The size of the pump-filter unit will be determined by the size of the swimming pool. The horsepower needed for the pump will depend upon the gallons present in the pool. The pump should ideally be able to clear all the gallons in the pool within a time period of 8 hours. The pump capacity is of vital importance, because using a pump with lower horsepower leads to reduced return pressure. This results in fewer gallons being filtered every minute. Moreover, low pressure reduces the efficiency of the filtering capacity as well. Pumps with larger horsepower capacity than required will result in channeling in the sand. When channels are formed in the sand, water forces itself through the sand, creating unnatural channels which allow the debris to flow through the filter and return to the pool unfiltered. Thus, optimum horsepower capacity pump is required.

Generally, the pumps used in above ground pools are single speed ones. However, these days manufacturers have come up with the dual speed ones. These dual speed pumps feature high and low speed settings, wherein the low setting can be used for basic pool circulation, and operates more quietly than the single speed one. The high speed setting is for times when high power is needed, such as while vacuuming the pool, back-washing the filter and other such applications. Moreover, these dual ones offer significant energy saving, and in places like California they are required by law.

The type of filter used in the unit is also important. Three types of swimming pool filters are available: sand filter, diatomaceous filter (D.E.) and cartridge filter. Sand filters are the least expensive, and cartridge filters are the most easy to maintain. However, pool experts say that D.E. filters are the most efficient filters. D.E. filters are expensive, thus the choice has to be made between money and efficient filtration. Irrespective of the type of filter, the filter cleaning must be done periodically.

Installation of a pump-filter unit for above ground pools is not complicated like those for in-ground pools. These units can be installed by a single person within a time frame of just an hour. However, it’s better to get professionals to get them installed. To increase the life of the pump, one must keep grass weeds from growing around the pool pump. The motor requires air circulation, and weeds can prevent this. Moreover, dirt and grit, when accumulate around the pump, harbor bugs and retain moisture. Moisture when retained leads to rust and premature failure of the pump. Pool pumps get ruined when left submerged, thus it is advisable to place the pump unit on a few stones, so that it’s at a height above the ground. This eliminates the ruining of the motor due to flooding during heavy rains.

Above ground pools are great assets to property, and are great for families and friends to chill out. The above ground pumps and filters keep the pool clean and hygienic for people to swim in. Solar covers and safety covers can be placed over the swimming pool to reduce the amount of debris collection in the pool. This will reduce the pump’s work and will increase its life.