Above Ground Pool Pump
Pumps for in ground pools and above ground pools differ in the engineering, due to pressure differences and flow needs. The back pressure in an in ground pool is greater, and therefore the mechanism must be adequate for the amount of pressure that exists. Above ground pools do not have as much pressure. Another feature of in ground pool pumps is the amount of piping that must run underneath, to access and circulate what is often a very much larger quantity of water. Therefore, one could expect that the mechanism, cost, capacity and parts for an in ground pool would be much greater than for an above ground pool.
There are two essential components to any pool pump. There is the filter, and the pump itself. The filter's function is to remove large and small particles from the water that is being pumped. There are three different kinds of pool filters. The first is the sand filter, which cleanses the water and traps particles in the sand on its way through. This type of filter causes a bit more pressure on the pump, therefore possibly shortening the pump's life a bit. The second kind of filter is the cartridge filter, which allows for more free-flow, and eases the pressure on the pump. The third kind is the DE filter, which consists of a powdered form of diatoms, a type of mined sediment. This offers the best of the filters, but puts the most pressure on the pump.
The size of the above ground pool pump should be adequate for the cleansing and flow needed for the size of pool. This is important, for if enough water does not circulate throughout the pool well, there will be a buildup of debris and possibly algae. A too-small pump may cost less, but cannot do the job it is designed to do. There are specification tables that the pool pump salesperson can go over to assist with understanding of any pool's requirements. They can clarify information and recommend what is needed for any size pool in order to keep it clean and healthy.
The above ground pool filters vary in ease of maintenance. The cartridge is the most user-friendly, and has a cleaning capacity close to that of DE filters. However, they tear easily, and must be replaced fairly often. The sand filter must be back washed with chlorine, to remove the debris from the sand, wasting chlorine. DE filters are great filters, but require more end-of-year maintenance than the other two.
Running time for filters is recommend at a minimum of eight hours a day. Ideally, the filter should run constantly. There are accessories that can help keep the pool at its very best, night or day. Automatic cleaners or "vacuums" clean the bottom of the pool, to pick up all lose debris there. Floating debris will be drawn into the water intake at the top and at one end. Special accessories can help make pool maintenance easy.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website are opinions of AboveGroundPoolGuide.com and do not reflect advice from retail professionals. You should always do your own research and consult retailers prior to any purchase decisions.