One of the most common questions we get is: “How long should I run my pool pump each day?“
The answer depends on the time of year, your pool size, and how much it’s used, but here’s a simple guide to help you keep your water clear and healthy.
The Simple Rule of Thumb
In general, your pool pump should run long enough to turn over the entire volume of your pool water at least once a day. For most pools:
- Summer (hot weather): 8 to 12 hours a day
- Spring & Fall (mild weather): 6 to 8 hours a day
- Winter (if pool stays open): 4 to 6 hours a day
Hotter temperatures, more swimmers, and frequent rainstorms will require longer pump times to maintain water clarity and balance.
Why Does Pump Runtime Matter?
Your pump is the heart of your pool’s circulation system. Running it long enough each day ensures:
- Proper filtration
- Even distribution of chemicals
- Prevention of algae growth
- Longer equipment life
If your pump doesn’t run long enough, you may notice cloudy water, algae problems, or unbalanced chemicals, which often cost more time and money to fix later.
How to Find the Sweet Spot
Every pool is different! Start with the recommended hours, then adjust based on:
- Water clarity
- Chemical test results
- Usage (the more swimmers, the longer it should run)
- Electricity costs — consider running your pump during off-peak hours if possible
Consider a Variable-Speed Pump
If you’re worried about energy costs, upgrading to a variable-speed pump is a great investment. They’re more energy-efficient and allow you to program run times at different speeds, saving money while keeping your pool crystal clear.
