An excellent pool cover pump can mean the difference between a cover that can withstand the elements and a flooded pool. So, making an ideal choice for your pool is crucial since the repercussions of getting a pump that gives out on you can be as real as it gets.
Granted, shopping online is supposed to make the selection process a breeze. But, as you know, things don’t always pan out as planned. Deceiving product descriptions crafted by marketing experts do the trick in obscuring you from learning the truth about a product that captures your interest. And as you know, knowledge is power! So, it should then come as no surprise that knowledgeable consumers make informed decisions.
With that being said, we’ll explore the ins and outs of choosing the best automatic pool cover pump. Read on!
Table of Contents
What Is An Automatic Pool Cover Pump?
It’s an electric device that’s armed with a switch that turns on and off automatically. Therefore, upon the detection of water on a pool cover’s surface, the pump automatically goes on to drain the excess water. Once the cover has dried off, the pump instantly goes off.
These handy gadgets possess the uncanny ability to drain from 250 gallons to 2500 GPH (gallons of water per hour). Sounds like a beast, right? Larger pools require a greater pumping capacity. A barrage of these pumps can be fully immersed in water and will get rid of leaves and other debris from the cover while serving its intended purpose.
The Key Features
Before hastily making a purchase, factor in the following criteria, that’ll steer you towards making a great choice.
Gallons Per Hour
Automatic pumps vary in the water quantity they can drain per hour. So, if there’s heavy rainfall or high humidity, then a pump that’s a beast in draining water should be at the top of your list.
Cord Length
If your pool is far from a power source, then this is a crucial factor to consider. With automatic pumps, using an extension cord elevates the risk of being electrocuted. That’s the last thing you need. So, prioritize pumps with long cords.
Filter Efficiency
While all automatic pool cover pumps come with filters, they vary. So, ensure you do your due diligence to discover the pumps that exude the highest filter efficiency. This means it should be a beast in filtering out leaves and other debris. Otherwise, it’ll give out on you before the first season.
Durability
Analyze the motor, filter, and all other components that make up automatic pool cover pumps. If they seem flimsy, then send it back to the seller. The likelihood of such a pump wearing out fast is high. And, preventing it from tipping over with every use will be an uphill battle.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing the Best Automatic Pool Cover Pumps?
Aside from effectively draining water, making it a breeze to remove your pool cover, there are a few other reasons that make buying a cover pump a worthy investment.
Safety
You may not realize that a soggy pool is a safety concern. Pool covers serve as safety nets for pets or children to fall in. But, if the cover is soaked in water and begins sinking into the pool, then this increases the risk of drowning. So, the best pump prevents this.
Maintenance
The absence of an automatic pool cover pump limits your options to:
- Rallying your strongest family members or friends to lift the heavy cover off your pool
- Hiring professionals to lift off the cover
- Working your way around dumping the dirty water right into your pool
The latter option means your pool will be packed with filth and debris that’ll take you all swim season to get rid of. A pump quickly melts these worries away.
The Pool Cover Lasts Longer
Pool covers can cost an arm and a leg. So, the last thing you need is to fritter your money away by exposing your cover to excessive damage from collected rainwater. Keeping the excess water drained is a great way to save your cover from wear and tear, thereby making it last for years, as it should.
What Is the Best Automatic Pool Cover Pump to Buy?
While there are a plethora of options in the market, below are some of the best pumps to buy.
Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Pool Cover Pump
Packed with amazing features, this pump will draw in any pool owner. For starters, it functions seamlessly during the cold months and harsh winters, more so if you take measures to prevent the hose from being engulfed by ice. Secondly, it has an in-built handle that enhances portability.
Thirdly, side discharge optimizes the water draining process. Lastly, by using the water as a coolant, this handy device can remain cool during the sweltering summers, thereby extending its life.
Fibro Pool Electric Swimming Pool Winter Cover Drain Pump
If you’re looking for a steal without compromising on quality, then this automatic pool cover pump is your go-to. It can drain up to 600 gallons of water per hour. And, being lightweight, you don’t have to worry about it weighing down your pool cover and otherwise subjecting it to excessive wear and tear. The 16-foot hose makes it ideal if your pool is far from a power source.
Moreover, it doesn’t require sitting upright to function. Therefore, if you’re using it to clear out your pool cover or a deep pit, for instance, it being perfectly aligned is the least of your worries. Needing just a few seconds to set it up, the pump is also conveniently powered by a generic 110-120V wall outlet.
The Bottom Line
An automatic pool cover pump is the secret to keeping your pool cover dry all year-round. Investing in this bad boy is one of the best decisions you can make as a pool owner. By doing so, you can finally put dreaded times of dealing with a soaked cover, to bed. And it’ll last longer.
Now that you’re armed with this vital knowledge, it’s time to find the perfect fit for you today!
