3 Steps to Calculate Your Pool Pump Run Time

Find your pool volume in gallons For a rectangular pool, multiply length x width x average depth x 7.5. Use an online calculator for irregular shapes.

Check your pump’s flow rate Look on the pump label for gallons per hour (GPH) or gallons per minute (GPM) and multiply GPM by 60. Add 10-20% to account for friction and filter resistance.

Divide volume by flow rate Pool gallons ÷ pump GPH gives the hours needed for one full turnover. Most pools need 6-10 hours in summer, less in cooler weather. Run longer if water is cloudy or you swim a lot.