Proper Swimming Pool Pumps & Piping for Above Ground Pools

Pump Selection

• Pump selection for an above ground swimming pool is related to the size of the pool itself. Above ground pools make use of either 1 or 1 1/2 HP pumps. When selecting a pump for an above ground swimming pool, choose the one able to process all of the pool's water in an eight-hour period. Typically, above ground pools 24-feet round and below can use 1 HP pumps while above ground pools more than 24-feet round need 1 1/2 HP pumps.

Piping Selection

• Piping for an above ground swimming pool, called flex pipe or flexible hose, is of short lengths. Typically, an above ground pool's complete flex pipe system consists of two short lengths. Above ground pool piping systems have one short length of flex pipe to run from the pump to the skimmer and another to run from the pool filter to the water return. Above ground pool piping packages also come designed for different types of pool pumps and filter systems.

Installation

• If you've purchased a new above ground pool, a pool pump, its filtration unit and all of its piping will be included with it. Always ensure your above ground pool's pump and filter are on very level, firm ground. Also, don't overstretch or force above ground pool piping to mate up with the pool's pump. If pool piping isn't long enough to reach a pool's pump, you'll need to purchase longer piping rather than risk any pool water leaks from overstretching.

Considerations

• Pool pump and filtration system makers often sell all the piping, fittings, connections and clamps you'll need for your above ground pool in packages called "skid packs." Above ground pool piping is also made to operate under low pressure. In addition, above ground swimming pool pumps are called "low head," meaning they're only installed below pool waterlines. Always look for low-head pool pumps and low-pressure piping packages when selecting the proper pumps and pipes for an above ground pool.