Inground Vs. Above Ground Pool Pumps

Identification

• Water pumps clean the water used in swimming pools. They are powered by electricity, and they circulate the water through a filter and then push it back into the pool. In a commercial setting, water pumps are run for 24 hours a day, but in residential settings, they are usually run for fewer hours. Because consumers can buy above or inground pools, they also have their choice of pumps. Above ground pumps work for above ground pools, and inground pumps work for inground pools.

Benefits

• In addition to clean water, pumps can trap debris that might be in the pool. Above ground pumps are easier to select, as they usually come with the above ground pool. That way, you will know that you have selected the right size pump for your pool, and you will not waste energy. Above ground pool pumps are also usually built into the cost of the pool.

  Inground pumps are relatively inexpensive, and they are installed under the ground with the pool, so they will not look clunky or obtrusive. Because they are installed right at the water line, they use less energy than above ground pumps.

  Both pumps usually have several setting options, so you can reduce energy costs by using the lowest setting you will need for your size of pool.

Disadvantages

• Above ground pool pumps are placed next to an above ground pool, and this can look obtrusive or cause injuries. Also, above ground pumps must work harder to push the water back up into the pool, so this could require more energy costs.

  Inground pumps are not as accessible, so if there is a problem or you need to install a new pump, more work will be required to get to the pump.

Considerations

• You might think that purchasing a pump with more horsepower than your current unit will make your pool cleaner. More horsepower, though, is not always necessary, and if you purchase too much horsepower for your size of pool, it could actually cost you a lot more in energy costs. The water might not get adequately sanitized either, as too much horsepower will likely push the water through the pump too fast before it can be thoroughly sanitized. Check with your pool’s manufacturer to determine what size pump you need.