What GPH should I aim for in an above-ground pool pump?

Shoot for 1,500 to 2,500 GPH. For most 1.5-inch hose filter systems on above-ground pools, that’s the sweet spot. Go lower and algae gets a head start; go higher and you risk blowing out hose connections or starving the pump due to friction loss. Match the pump’s rated flow to your pool’s gallonage for one full turnover in about 8 hours.