Selecting the right size pump and filter for your pool is
one of the most things to remember when making a purchase. It is
important to use the right size for the pool that you have. The reason
that this is important is that filtering a specific amount of water per
hour is what keeps algae from growing and maintains a proper pH level.
During the pool installation process, adding the pump and filter are generally the last thing before filling the pool with water and calibrating the pH levels.
Pump Type
There are a few types of pumps to consider. One that is gaining popularity is a salt sanitization system. This is a chemical free
type of pool pump that requires only a small amount of salt per gallon
of water in lieu of chemicals. Salt sanitization systems are ideal for
homes with young children or for those with sensitive skin.
Traditional pumps require the use of chemicals and a bit more
maintenance. It is ideal to perform a maintenance cleaning on
traditional pumps at least once monthly. This prevents clogged passages
that can reduce pressure and suction. It also helps to keep the filters
cleaner and properly contain debris from recirculating back into the
water.
Required Maintenance
Consider the amount of maintenance
that a pool pump system will require prior to making a purchase. Some
require minimal maintenance other than a filter cleaning/changing and a
quick flushing of the system. Others require that parts are removed and
cleaned individually on a monthly basis. If a salt sanitization system
is the pump type chosen, minimal maintenance is required. Most also come
with a reusable bag filter that simply needs to be emptied and rinsed
out.
Pump Size
It is ideal to know how many gallons of water your pool holds when
purchasing a pump. An example of an appropriate size would be a 15,000
gallon pool requiring a minimum 20GPM pump. The gallons per minute, or
GPM, to sufficiently filter all of the water in the pool should be 1.5
times the volume of water in the pool. This also helps to prevent debris
buildup, algae formation and spikes in pH levels. Debris can clog the
return suction that is known for throwing off pH levels and allowing algae to begin to form.
Enclosed or Non-Enclosed Pump Area
The type of pump that you purchase should weigh some on whether you
have an enclosed pump room or if the pump is out in the open. Pumps that
are enclosed in a small room are more likely to remain in working
condition without incident. Those that are out in the open, close to the
pool, are susceptible to the elements and storms. It makes them
vulnerable to debris.
For safety reasons, consider purchasing a pump and filter setup that
does not contain copper. Unless the pool area is completely enclosed
with a fence, copper is an item that is often stolen by those that are
having financial difficulty. Some homeowners may want to consider a
locked enclosure box to prevent copper theft.
Filter Type
Consider the options in filter type when purchasing a filter to work
in your new pool pump. There are options that are disposable to use
after only one cycle. A cycle is generally 30 days. Other filter types
are reusable and can be cleaned for reuse for up to 12 cycles. Reusable
filters simply need to be removed on a weekly basis
and emptied. Once this is done, rinsing them out and placing them back
in the pump is all that is needed. Filters do all have to be replaced at
some point.
It is very important to use the right size pump along with the
recommended chemicals for that pump. Pumps that have piping that is made
of metal will benefit better from non-corrosive chemicals. Pumps that
have piping made from PVC or other materials of the type can use any
type of chemical. Take the time to consider salt sanitization systems as
they are less costly to maintain and are an all natural way to keep
pool water clean and prevent algae from growing. | 
