If you own a pool, you’ll need to drain it at some point.
This could be for cleaning, repairs, or winter prep.
Choosing from all the submersible pumps on the market is critical to avoiding frustration and saving time.
The wrong pump can take hours or even days to drain your pool. But the right one will do it quickly and efficiently.
So, how do you find the best pump for your pool? Let’s explore everything you need to know.
As a pool owner, I follow pump instructions and safe draining practices so the job is efficient and the equipment stays in good shape.
At a glance: Submersible for large/deep pools; sump for smaller; utility for portable use. Match HP and GPH to pool size; check corrosion resistance for chemical exposure.
Why Your Pool Needs the Right Draining Pump
Draining a pool isn’t common, but doing it right matters. The right pump ensures quick water removal and avoids clogging or burnout, whether you have an in-ground or above-ground pool.
Think of it this way: a good pump is your best tool for draining water quickly and keeping your pool equipment in good shape. Knowing the different types of pumps and choosing the right one for your pool is important.
Submersible, Sump, or Utility Pump: Which One Do You Need?
The first step is to determine the type of pump that will best suit your pool’s size and type. There are three main types, each with benefits and ideal use cases.
Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps are great for larger or deeper pools. They drain water quickly and are perfect for in-ground pools. For example, the Wayne WaterBUG is known for its efficiency and reliability, making it ideal if speed is your priority.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are also good for above-ground pools. They are less powerful than submersible pumps but suitable for smaller pools. The Superior Pump 91250 is a budget-friendly option for small pools or infrequent use.
Utility Pumps
Utility pumps are versatile and portable. They work well in smaller or medium-sized pools. The Wayne EEAUP250 is a lightweight and easy-to-use pump, though it might take longer for larger pools.
Key Features to Consider
After choosing the pump type, look at specific features to make the job easier and more efficient. Important features include horsepower, GPH, and corrosion resistance.
Horsepower (HP)
A pump’s horsepower indicates its power. More horsepower means faster water movement. A pump like the Wayne 1/2 HP Submersible Pump is best for large pools. It drains pools faster, saving you hours.
Gallons Per Hour (GPH)
GPH shows how much water a pump can move in an hour. Higher GPH means faster draining. For example, the Little Giant 5-MSP Utility Pump can drain a standard pool in a few hours. This is key for quick jobs.
Corrosion Resistance
Pool chemicals can damage equipment. It’s key to pick a pump that resists corrosion. The Superior Pump 92341 is made to handle these chemicals and prevent rust. This means your pump will last longer and work well for many uses.
| Feature | Why It’s Important | Recommended Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower (HP) | Determines the speed of water removal. Higher horsepower means faster draining, especially for large or deep pools. | Wayne 1/2 HP Submersible Pump |
| Gallons Per Hour (GPH) | Drains water quickly, minimizing pool maintenance time. | Little Giant 5-MSP Utility Pump |
| Corrosion Resistance | It prevents rust and extends the pump’s life, especially in chemically treated pools. | Superior Pump 92341 |
| Energy Efficiency | It saves electricity and reduces operational costs for frequent or long-draining tasks. | Wayne Water Removal Pump |
| Hose Connection | Ensures smooth water removal with secure connections, preventing leaks and backflow. | Wayne 57729-WYNP WAPC250 |
| Automatic Shut-Off | It prevents pump damage by turning it off when water levels are too low. | Wayne CDU980E 3/4 HP |
Choosing the Right Pump for Your Pool
Now you know what to look for in a pump. But how do you find the right one for your pool? Here’s a quick guide:
- For large, in-ground pools, choose a submersible pump with high horsepower and GPH. The Wayne WaterBUG is great for draining water fast.
- For smaller, above-ground pools, A sump pump like the Superior Pump 91250 is perfect. It’s less expensive and works well, though it might take longer.
- For saltwater pools, pick a pump that resists corrosion to avoid damage. The Superior Pump 92341 is a good choice for handling water with a high chemical content.
Here’s how draining fits seasonal reopening maintenance.
How to Drain Your Pool: Step-by-Step
Draining your pool is easy, but follow these steps for a smooth process.
- Prepare the Pool: Clear big debris from the pool before starting. This prevents clogs and helps your pump work better.
- Place the Pump: For best efficiency, place the submersible pumps at the pool’s lowest point. Connect the hose to direct water to your drainage area.
- Turn on the Pump: Start the pump and watch to ensure the water flows properly. If using a sump or utility pump, check every few hours to see if the water level is dropping.
- Watch for Common Problems: If the pump stops or drainage slows, debris might be blocking it. Pumps like the WaterAce WA62UP handle debris well. If you see clogs, turn off the pump, clear the blockage, and restart.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Draining a pool can have some bumps, but here’s how to fix common problems:
- Slow Drainage: If drainage is slow, check the GPH and horsepower. A low-GPH pump can’t handle large pools, so make sure your pump’s power matches your pool’s size.
- Clogging: Pumps that can’t handle debris easily clog. Choose a pump like the WaterAce WA62UP, which prevents clogs from leaves and small debris.
- Pump Shuts Off Early: This is often due to a float switch that triggers when the water level is too low. If this happens, move the pump to keep it fully submerged.
Submersible Pool Pumps
- Efficient Sump Pump: Aquastrong sump pump with 1HP powerful motor. Draining water up to 4500GPH Per Hour( 75 gallons per minute) at 5ft. Lift water up to 30ft of vertical height
- Portable Design: Plug in to play while unplug to stop. Bottom suction design filters debris and removes water down to 1/5 inch from the surface. It can handle up to 1/5″solids , ideal for draining hot tub and flooded basement window wells
- Easy Installation: 1-1/4'' NPT discharge comes with 1-1/2'' elbow adapter and snap coupling adapter of 3/4'', 1'' or 1-1/4'', which makes Submersible pump easy to install. 10ft UL power cord provides safety and convenience
- Safe & Durable: The submersible water pump is made of reinforced engineering thermoplastic casing resists corrosion and abrasion. Quality mechanical seal prevents leakage effectively for long service life. Built-in thermal overload protector will keep the motor from burning out when dry running
- Quality Service: Aquastrong customer service provides professional technical supports, keeps your water system stable and worry-free
- Fast Water Removal with Powerful 1HP Motor: This submersible water pump delivers up to 4755GPH, quickly draining water from pools, hot tubs, and flooded basements.
- Pumps Water to Higher and Longer Distances: With a 36ft lift height, this pump allows water to be drained to elevated areas or across longer distances, ideal for basements, yards, and outdoor drainage.
- Reduces Clogging & Easy to Maintain: Built-in filter helps block small debris, reducing the risk of clogging and keeping the pump running smoothly. Designed for clean and lightly dirty water, with less frequent cleaning required.
- Ready-to-Use with Hose Kit Included: Comes with a 23ft hose and adapters, allowing quick connection to standard hoses without the need for additional accessories.
- Flexible Use Without Extension Cords: 25ft power cord allows easy use in basements, yards, and outdoor areas without extra cables, while the durable PP construction supports stable and reliable operation.
- Main Parameters: pool cover pump QMAX: 3000lL/H, HMAX: 3.2m AC:110V/60HZ 75W, Max Water Temperature:95℉, waterproof level: IPX8
- Utility Materials and Designs: above ground pool pump adopt sturdy ABS shell, which can resist bad weather. The four sides of the pump are all mesh screens, which can enter water in a large area. The built-in temperature control core prevents dry burning when pumping dry
- High Utility drainage: The maximum drainage speed of the 75 swimming pool pump is up to 850 gallons per hour, which is about 2 times faster than the ordinary ordinary pump
- Good compatibility: The 16 ft anti-twist drainage hose of pool drain pump is suitable for the 1/2 " water nozzle and can drain from any depth of the pool. 3/4" water nozzle and 3/4”crooked water nozzle is suitable for drainage hoses and garden hoses. The 25 ft power cord increases the distance between the socket and the water to prevent electric shock
- Good customer service: If for any reason you're not 100% satisfied, please let us know and our customer service team will help you return or refund
- 【EFFICIENT UTILITY PUMP】: Submersible water pump with 1/3 HP motor discharges up 2450 GPH (40.8 gallons per minute) and has a max. lift capacity of 28 feet. Comes with a 10 ft power cord and detachable filter that can handle solids up to 1/8 inch thick
- 【HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS】: The shell thermoplastic construction ensure less prone to mechanical failure. The submersible pump features a highly corrosion-resistant impeller that automatically adjusts to speed and fluid viscosity to ensure long service life
- 【PRACTICAL ADAPTERS】: The pump comes with a high capacity pumping 1-1/4" NPT discharge size and a 3/4" garden hose adapter. And the pump features a removable bottom screen that filters debris, removes water to 1/5" of the surface
- 【WIDE APPLICATION】: The pump can be operated easily by plugging into the power supply. Suitable for flushing hot tub, tankless water heater, and removing water from swimming pools, standing water in basement or garden ponds, and other flooding areas
- 【HIGH DURABILITY】The powerful motor and all electrical components are protected against water for maximum life and reliability. Tips: Before using the product, submerge the pump into the water at an angle to allow any trapped air to escape
- POWERFUL WATER PUMP: High-efficiency submersible water pump with 1 1/2HP power motor. Draining water up to 4000 Gallons Per Hour (66 gallons per minute) at 5ft. and has a max. lift capacity of 31 feet
- PORTABLE UTILITY PUMP: The 25ft. cable length allows for convenient water pumping in various applications. With a lightweight of just 10.8lbs, super quiet operation, and a convenient handle, it provides an excellent solution for use around the house
- LOW SUCTION CAPABILITY: This water pump can suction water as low as 1/5 inch. The outlet is 1 1/2 inches in diameter and comes with 2 adapters, compatible with 1'' and 1.5'' NPT threads as well as 3/4'' and 1'' barb fittings, ensuring versatile connectivity options
- HIGH-QUALITY SUBMERSIBLE PUMP: This submersible pump is made of thermoplastic material for durability and corrosion resistance. Equipped with premium bearings and a specially hardened stainless steel motor shaft, ensuring exceptional durability and longevity
- LONG LASTING PROTECTION: The 1.5HP powerful motor comes with built-in automatic thermal overload protector, which will protect the pump from overheat damage, ensuring optimal longevity and dependability. Prior to operation, gently submerge the pump into the water at an inclined angle to facilitate the release of any trapped air bubbles
FAQ
What size pump do I need for my pool?
For most in-ground pools, a submersible pump with at least 1/2 HP and high GPH (1,200+ GPH) is best. A sump pump with lower GPH works fine for smaller pools.
How fast can I drain my pool with a 1,200 GPH pump?
A 1,200 GPH pump can drain a 12,000-gallon pool in about 10 hours.
How do I prevent my pump from clogging?
Use a pump designed for debris handling, such as the WaterAce WA62UP, and clear large debris from the pool before starting.
What is the Max Lift Height in a pool pump?
Max Lift Height is the maximum vertical distance a pump can lift water from the pool to the drainage point. It’s important if your pool is on uneven terrain or if you need to drain water to a location that is above the pool level.
What’s a good Max Lift Height for uneven terrain?
For pools on uneven terrain or with drainage points above pool level, look for a pump with a Max Lift Height of 10 to 15 feet to ensure efficient water removal. Models like the Wayne WaterBUG Submersible Pump are designed to handle such situations effectively.
Final Thoughts
Takeaways: Match pump type and GPH to your pool size—submersible for speed on large pools, sump for budget on smaller ones. Clear debris before starting, and check the corrosion resistance if your pool is heavily chlorinated.
Next step: This week, confirm your pool volume and where you’ll send the water. Then choose or order a pump that matches (HP/GPH) so you’re ready when you need to drain.
With the right pump, pool draining stays quick and low-stress.
Related reading: chemistry checks after a major drain and refill