4 Things to Know About Pool Cover Pump Horsepower

Choose at least 1/3 HP for reliable performance A 1/6 HP or 1/4 HP pump will struggle with heavy rain and may trip or burn out. A 1/3 HP pump rated for at least 2,000 gallons per hour handles most pools well.

Upgrade to 1/2 HP for large covers or heavy rain If your cover is over 20x40 feet or you get tropical downpours, step up to 1/2 HP. The extra $30–40 is cheap compared to a torn cover or flooded yard.

Ignore “heavy duty” labels and check the GPH rating Look at the gallons-per-hour rating at the head height your pump actually sees, not marketing claims. Most pumps run through a hose, not perfectly flat.

Buy an automatic pump with a float switch You do not want to stand outside in a thunderstorm to turn it on. An automatic pump keeps your cover dry without your involvement.