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10 Best Submersible Pool Pumps
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Submersible Pool Pumps
Choosing the right submersible pool pump can make pool maintenance much easier and more efficient. Submersible pool pumps are designed to work under water, either for draining pools, moving water for cleaning, or supporting water features. When picking the best pump for your needs, it's important to look beyond just the basic ability to pump water. Focus on the features that match your pool's size, use case, and how often you'll need the pump. Understanding the key specifications will help you find a pump that's both powerful enough for your needs and simple to operate and maintain.Flow Rate (Gallons Per Hour or GPH)Flow rate measures how much water the pump can move in an hour, usually shown as gallons per hour (GPH). This is important because it tells you how quickly the pump will drain or circulate the water in your pool. Pumps with a low flow rate (below 2000 GPH) are suitable for small tasks or small pools, whereas higher flow rates (over 4000 GPH) are better for rapid draining or large pools. To choose the right flow rate, consider how often you want to run the pump and how quickly you want results—for occasional light tasks, a lower rate may suffice, but larger or frequent jobs need higher GPH.
Head Height (Maximum Lift)Head height is how high the pump can push water above its own position. This becomes important if you need to move water uphill or through long hoses. A lower maximum head height (under 10 feet) is fine for flat pool draining, but if you need to pump water from a deep pool up a slope or into an elevated drain, a pump with a higher head height (over 20 feet) is better suited. Consider your pool depth and the elevation difference from pool to drain point.
Power Source and Cord LengthMost submersible pumps are electric and require access to a power outlet. The length and safety of the power cord are important for safe operation—short cords may limit where you can use the pump, while long, heavy-duty cords add flexibility. For basic, close-to-outlet jobs, a shorter cord may be fine, but for more distant or larger pools, look for a longer, grounded power cable.
Durability and MaterialsSubmersible pumps are made from different materials, like plastic or stainless steel. Plastic pumps are lighter and may be fine for seasonal or occasional use, but stainless steel models generally last longer and handle debris better. If you plan frequent use or expect exposure to rough conditions, investing in a more durable material helps your pump last longer and prevents corrosion.
Debris Handling CapacitySome pumps are built to handle solid debris like leaves or dirt, while others may clog easily. Pumps with larger intake screens and debris-resistant designs are better for pools that get dirty or have heavy leaf fall. If your pool is regularly cleaned or filtered, a standard model is fine, but if you expect to pump dirty or debris-filled water, choose a pump designed specifically for solid handling.
Automatic vs. Manual OperationAutomatic pumps have float switches that turn them on/off when the water reaches certain levels, making them easier for unattended use. Manual pumps require you to turn them on or off yourself, giving more control but needing supervision. If you want a pump to keep a pool consistently drained or to handle rainwater automatically, an automatic type is convenient. For occasional or supervised tasks, manual operation is sufficient.
Weight and PortabilityThe weight and size of the pump affect how easy it is to move and position. Lightweight pumps are easier to carry and set up, great for users who need to store the pump when not in use or move it between locations. Heavier pumps are usually more robust for heavy-duty use. Pick based on how often you plan to move the pump and your physical ability to handle it.