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The 7 best pool pumps 2024?

by Laura

pool pump
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The many liters of water in the pool disappear faster than many people think. A pool pump provides support for proper water maintenance. Good filter pumps work quietly, automatically and ensure optimum hygiene conditions.

Avoid buying mistakes:

Customers who have connected the pump once do not want to experience a nasty surprise. That is why it is important to inform yourself thoroughly before making a purchase. BeyondSurfing shows you the best pool pumps reviewed on 2024.

The best pool pump 2024?

In a hurry? Our pool pump favorite:

Bestway Flowclear pump and filter*
What characterizes the offer?

  • Very favorable
  • Experienced manufacturer
  • Easy to change filter cartridge
  • Incl. Instructions
  • For pools up to 17,400 liters
  • One cartridge in a set
  • Very quiet

Pool pump Checklist

  • Types: There are various pool pumps, from sand filters to cartridge filters. There are pumps that are operated without electricity and with the power of the sun.
  • Service life: Cleaning the pool pump extends its service life. For permanently installed pools, customers can winterize the pump.
  • Noise level: A modern pump does not hum and is not too loud for any neighbors.
  • Connection: Even laymen can connect most filter pumps correctly.
  • Running time: The running time depends on the performance of the pump and the liters in the tank.

Also interesting: The most popular inflatable pools 2024.

The 7 best pool pumps in 2024

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

1. Bestway Flowclear pump and filter

Advantages

  • Very favorable
  • Experienced manufacturer
  • Easy to change filter cartridge
  • Incl. Instructions
  • For pools up to 17,400 liters
  • One cartridge in a set
  • Very quiet

Disadvantages

  • Not suitable for pools over 17,400 liters
  • Filter cartridge produces waste

Summary

This filter pump from Bestway reflects the manufacturer’s experience. An efficient but inexpensive pump was built here. Thanks to the brand’s high sales volume, a favorable price is possible with robust materials.

The filter pump works quietly and is very easy to install. Customers are supported by the instructions supplied. A cartridge is already supplied with the pump: it is ready for immediate use.

The filter cartridge must be replaced 1-2 times a year, depending on the size of the pool. Replacements are available from Amazon for a reasonable price. The filter can be replaced in just a few simple steps. The model is suitable for medium-sized pools up to 17,400 liters.

Conclusion

Anyone looking for an inexpensive model for medium-sized pools will be satisfied with this pump.

Customers looking for more power or preferring more environmentally friendly sand pumps will choose a different product.

Product details

Size: 12.7 x 10.2 x 7.6 cm | Capacity: 3,028 liters per hour | Weight: 3 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 57% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The function is flawless and many customers are satisfied with the work of the pump.

Around 15% are neutral about the product, while 27% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

A customer received the wrong product and had to make a complaint. Another wanted to combine the system with pool heating, which is not technically possible.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the operating mode quiet?
Yes, the pump is barely audible.
Is operation also possible with filter balls?
No, only the advertised filter cartridges fit the product.

2. intex Krystal Clear pool filter system for pools up to 36,000 l

Advantages

  • Ideal for XXL pools
  • Integrated timer
  • Lightweight
  • Backwash function
  • Low volume
  • Powerful
  • Durable

Disadvantages

  • Not for small pools
  • Upper price level

Summary

This pool filter system comes from Intex, a very experienced manufacturer. Assembly is quick and easy thanks to the instructions. Most customers need less than an hour with the right tools.

The filter system has a backwash program, which makes it easier to clean the pump. Carried out regularly, the quality of the filter sand and the power of the pump can be improved and maintained.

The filter system not only works thoroughly, but also quietly. The power connection has a strength of 230 volts. The set also includes a hose adapter with a diameter of 38 mm. The operating times can be precisely timed using the built-in timer.

Conclusion

Customers with a large pool and the desire for a built-in timer will get their money’s worth with this product.

This pool filter system is less suitable for small pools or those on a tight budget.

Product details

Size: 59.4 cm x 40 cm x 66.7 cm | Capacity: 6000 liters per hour | Weight: 22 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 91% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Delivery and installation are fast. The design is modern and smaller than its predecessors. Most customers like that. The quality of the water and hygiene in the pool are improved.

Operation is quiet, even though the pump is very powerful. The majority of reviewers would recommend the product to others. Even XXL pools are cleaned reliably, which many customers would not have expected from such a small pump.

Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 2% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Defective models were delivered to two customers. They had to exchange the goods, which was no problem. The timer did not work smoothly for one buyer. He also returned the product.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Does the pump suck in the water by itself?
Yes, the pump sucks by itself.
Can the pump be installed 1.5 meters below the edge of the pool in an above-ground pool?
The manufacturer specifies 1.5 meters as the absolute maximum.

3. Bestway Flowclear Skimatic 2-in-1 filter pump

Advantages

  • Skimmer included
  • Hose-free operation
  • Low-noise cleaning
  • Filter cartridges included
  • Can be combined with all pools
  • Modern design

Disadvantages

  • High price
  • High dead weight

Summary

This pool filter has a decisive advantage over the other products: It is also a skimmer. This means it also cleans the surface of the pool of insects and dirt.

Visually, the model is very inconspicuous. However, the design is certainly impressive: modern and high-quality. The filter system is simply hooked into the pool.

Filter cartridges are already supplied in the box. The flow rate is 3.974 liters per hour. This is very powerful for a pump-skimmer combination.

Conclusion

If you set up your pool near trees without a roof, you cannot do without a skimmer. This product is ideal.

If you have an XXL pool, you need a more powerful pump and a separate skimmer.

Product details

Size: 46.5 x 47 x 31.5 cm | Capacity: 3974 liters per hour | Weight: 7.14 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 71% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The suction power is strong and you can see how effectively the product works: After one week, the filter is already full for some customers. Nevertheless, operation is very quiet and it is also easy to use. The water quality is increased enormously thanks to this pump. Customers would recommend the product to others and are predominantly very satisfied.

Around 14% are neutral about the product, while 14% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

One customer complained that the bracket on his inflatable pool edge could not hold. Fortunately, the return policy is accommodating and he was able to exchange the model without any problems.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can the model be attached to steel wall pools?
Yes, there are two different brackets that are suitable for all pools.
Can the filter system also be attached to an inflatable hot tub?
Yes, but an external filter is not necessary for a hot tub. A filter pump is usually integrated.

4. Miganeo Dynamic filter system

Advantages

  • Favorable price
  • 5 colors available
  • Timer included
  • Heating connection
  • Pre-sieve
  • Compatible with filter balls and sand
  • Pressure gauge installed
  • Suitable for salt water

Disadvantages

  • Not for large pools
  • Not self-priming

Summary

Buyers do not have to cover or bury this pool pump or hide it in a pool pump house: Customers can choose from 5 colors (blue, black, green or red). This sets this model apart from other products.

The Miganeo pool pump is easy to set up and can even be used by inexperienced buyers. It takes less than 60 minutes. After filling in the sand or filter balls, the filter pump can be put into operation immediately.

The filter system is quiet and powerful. The pump works very thoroughly. Up to 3.8 cubic meters of water are circulated per hour. This cleans a pool with 19,000 liters of water within 3 hours.

Conclusion

A visually appealing product for customers who also value the appearance of their filter system. There is a suitable model for every taste.

The pump is not suitable for XXL pools with a capacity of 20,000 liters or more.

Product details

Size: 60 x 70 x 40 cm | Material: 3.8 m³ per hour | Weight: 10 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 92 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The set is supplied with all the necessary connections. Customers are more than satisfied with the product. Assembly is super easy thanks to the matching YouTube videos as instructions. Filtration is thorough and efficient. Operation is quiet and the pressure indicator works reliably. Emptying the cartridge is very easy. In general, buyers would buy the model again.

Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 3% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

A customer complains about poor handling of the warranty service. Another had to repair the seal with adhesive tape because it became porous after a short time.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

What is the length of the power cable supplied?
The cable in the set has a length of 1.5 m.
Can the filter pump run continuously?
Theoretically yes, but this is not necessary and consumes a lot of electricity.

5. Bestway Flowclear pool filter system

Advantages

  • TÜV-tested
  • Ecological
  • DVD instructions
  • Pre-filter
  • Ideal for small pools
  • Favorable price
  • Quiet operation
  • Practical holder

Disadvantages

  • No timer
  • Not for large pools

Summary

This pool filter system from Bestway can be installed using the enclosed DVD. Commissioning is no problem even for newcomers to the field.

As soon as the filter pump is connected, only the quartz sand needs to be filled into the tank. This is particularly environmentally friendly. Operation is very quiet and delivers excellent cleaning results.

Polysphere balls can also be used as a filter instead of sand. A chemical dispenser is also included in the set. It doses the chlorine particularly effectively.

Conclusion

For owners of smaller pools who want to spend less money, this model is the ideal choice. The DVD makes installation particularly easy for newcomers.

If a timer is important to you, you will have to choose a different product.

Product details

Size: 36 x 36 x 52.5 cm | Material: up to 2006 liters per hour | Weight: 8 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 86% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Operation is quiet and connection is easy. The instructions are very detailed and easy to understand. The seals are robust and the price-performance ratio is praised. The material is UV resistant. The customer service is reliable and very friendly. Customers also like the built-in chemical dosing unit.

Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

One customer complains about the lack of a timer. However, this is indicated in the product description. Manual operation is too strenuous for this customer. One of the buyers had a broken seal, which was replaced by the manufacturer.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can coarse natural sand also be used?
Under no circumstances, this will destroy the pump and contaminate the pool.
Can an external timer be connected?
Yes, that’s not a problem in theory.

6. intex Krystal Clear cartridge filter system

Advantages

  • Permanently reduced in price
  • Experienced manufacturer
  • Can be combined with various pools
  • 1.5 m long hose
  • Simple installation
  • Free filter in a set
  • Filter can be cleaned and reused

Disadvantages

  • Only suitable for small pools
  • Only 1 meter water column

Summary

This particularly affordable pump is permanently reduced in price on Amazon. Of course, you can’t expect the most powerful version for so little money, but this model is perfect for small pools.

Installation is possible in just a few minutes. The free filter in the set can be cleaned and therefore reused several times. Intex has designed the pump so that it can be combined with different pools.

The 1.5 meter long hose offers enough clearance for a smooth connection. The simple design does not feature a large brand print.

Conclusion

The price is just as small as the pools that can be combined with the pump. If the tank is under 6000 liters, this product is ideal.

Owners of large pools should choose a different model.

Product details

Size: 17.1 x 18.4 x 32.8 cm | Capacity: 1.7 cubic meters per hour | Weight: 2.48 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 83% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The scope of delivery is very comprehensive and includes everything you need for commissioning. Customers praise the fact that the filter is easy to clean and therefore reusable. Anyone can connect this pool pump.

When the product is combined with the right pool, it works very effectively. One customer suggests that regular bleeding leads to an even quieter pump. Combined with chlorine, you have a sparkling clean pool.

Around 10% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

A customer has found an error in the instructions and is complaining about it. Another buyer complains that the power of the pump diminishes after a short time. Customer service then advised him to change the cartridge.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the product suitable for a 2 meter deep pool?
No, the head is only one meter.
How can the filter be cleaned without leaking?
Simply place it on the edge of the pool and always clean it above the surface so that nothing leaks out.

7. Steinbach pool filter system Classic black

Advantages

  • Environmentally friendly
  • For medium-sized pools up to 19,000 l
  • Timer
  • Pre-filter
  • Connection for auxiliary heating
  • Special adapter for Intex
  • Low price
  • Quiet

Disadvantages

  • Assembly instructions missing
  • Seals unstable

Summary

The sand filter makes this pool pump particularly ecological. Assembly takes less than 30 minutes. Operation is quiet and up to 8,000 liters of water are circulated per hour. This gives an operating time of approx. 4 hours.

This filter pump for the pool does not come with assembly instructions, but conveniently there are several YouTube videos on how to set it up. Instructions are also available for download on the manufacturer’s website.

The model can be combined with a heater. The operating pressure is indicated by the built-in pressure gauge. The design has a modern look and is completely black, making it stand out from other filter systems.

Conclusion

A reliable pool filter pump for medium-sized pools. Customers who prefer a monochrome design will be very happy with this model.

Very large or small pools must be equipped with a different pump.

Product details

Size: 53.2 x 44.6 x 32.2 cm | Material: 550 watts | Weight: 9.98 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 89% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

When reviewed, most customers find this model particularly good and would buy the filter again. The pool pump provides several years of good service and can optimally clean medium-sized pools. The suction power is powerful and delivery is also very fast. Most customers have already been using the pump for several seasons.

Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

One buyer criticizes the inadequate sealing rings. He had to help with adhesive tape. Few other customers have received an incomplete set. They then received help from customer service.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the sand for filtering included in the set?
No, this can be purchased separately. Best to order at the same time.
Title
This pump must be lower than the water surface in order to work.

Bestsellers: The most popular pool pumps

What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

(**Last update 2024-12-09)

Buy a pool filter pump:
How to make the right decision

pool_filter_system

Since we have a filter system, we can do without unhealthy chemicals in the water. So we no longer feel bad about taking our small children into the water. The system works cleanly and quietly.

Thomas Hussung ★★★★★
(Father and pool owner from Bremerhaven)


A pool only offers relaxation and fun when it is clean. Nobody wants to bathe in dirty water. Not every filter system works optimally and the product must be suitable for your own swimming pool.

BeyondSurfing’s buying guide provides pool owners with the knowledge they need to find the ideal filter system.

The advantages and disadvantages of filter systems compared to manual cleaning with a landing net?

  • Automatic operation
  • More thorough
  • Less effort
  • Timer takes care of the timing
  • More expensive purchase
  • Pool must meet certain requirements
  • Difficult to repair

What you need to consider when buying a pool filter pump (incl. Checklist)

When looking for the best pool filter system, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:

  • The connection
  • The performance
  • The power consumption
  • The filter type
  • The built-in timer
  • Correct cleaning

Pro tip: There is also a skimmer and filter in one. So if customers also want effective surface cleaning, they buy a combination of both.

The right connection

Filter systems must of course first be connected for operation. As a rule, manufacturers supply hose connections with a 32 or 38 millimeter device. Consequently, customers need to find out which size is suitable for their own pool.

Good to know:

Intex pumps usually also fit Intex pools – this means that manufacturers ensure that their own products are compatible. Otherwise, appropriate adapters can also be used.

The performance

In principle, the following applies:

  • The further away the pump is from the pool, the greater the suction and pressure capacity must be.
  • The shorter the pipes, the better the suction behavior.
  • The flow velocity in the pipes must not exceed 2.0 m/sec.
  • Self-priming pool pumps can cope with heights of up to 3 m.
  • With very long suction lines, the suction time can be up to a quarter of an hour – regardless of how powerful the pump is.

What customers need to remember

Ideally, the pool water should be completely circulated and filtered at least twice a day. The so-called circulation rate indicates how many liters of water per hour the pump filters.

1 Where is this information located?

Most manufacturers state the value in the product description. Rule of thumb: The higher the performance, the faster and the more water is cleaned by the filter pump.

2 Which service suits whom?

Ideally, buyers are guided by the size of the pool. Here, too, manufacturers often specify guide values in liters. A high-performance pump is less suitable for a small pool due to its high power consumption. There is no need to use a pump for a paddling pool.

Pro tip: The information is often given in cubic meters. One cubic meter (1 m³) corresponds to 1,000 liters of water. This means that a pump with a capacity of 1.7 cubic meters per hour circulates 1,700 liters per hour.

The power consumption

When buying a pool filter system, the power consumption should not be forgotten. Customers can save on operating costs here. A pump with an output of 500 watts corresponds to a consumption of 0.5 kW (kilowatts). For one hour of operation, customers pay around 15 cents according to current electricity prices.

This means that the pumps are comparable: Powerful pumps naturally consume more electricity. However, pumps of the same power can be easily compared with each other: This means that one pump may circulate just as much water as the other, but use less electricity.

The filter type

By definition, a water filter is a device for improving the quality of water. Improvement here means that particles such as turbidity or microorganisms are removed.

There are two types of circulation pumps:

1Self-priming filter pumps

Unlike normal-priming filter pumps, self-priming filter pumps can be installed above or below the water surface as they are independent of the gradient. Nevertheless, the following rule applies: the shorter the distance, the more efficiently the pump works. In contrast to normal-priming pumps, they can also pump air, as they can vent the line independently.

2Normal-priming pumps

Normal-priming pumps cannot pump air and can only be installed below the water level. However, these pumps are usually cheaper to purchase.

Timers

There are pool pumps that have a built-in timer. This is particularly practical because fixed running times can be programmed. For example, the filter pump runs fully automatically during the night. When you wake up, you will find a clean pool with no pump noise.

Relaxed on vacation: This means that optimum water care is maintained even during the vacations. This extends the service life of the pool and water.

Caution: A filter system that is permanently switched on is not recommended due to the high electricity costs and wear and tear.

Correct cleaning

If you want to benefit from your pool filter system for a long time, you should clean the device several times a year. The recommended frequency varies depending on how calcareous the water is where you live.

This is how it works:

Simply pour in some (environmentally friendly) descaler and leave it to work overnight. Then observe the following steps:

  1. Switch off the pump and set the valve to backwash
  2. Open the sealing cap of the pump
  3. Switch on the system and allow it to filter for a few minutes
  4. Switch the valve to rinse
  5. Switch off the pump after half a minute and set the valve back to filtering

→ The pump is now ready for operation again, reset the timer if necessary.

Tip: Customers who make sure that a backwash function is integrated when purchasing can clean more efficiently.

Pool pump tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test?

There are no pool pump tests to date and therefore no test winners that can be presented. Alternatively, it is advisable to compare customer reviews and to pay attention to the recommendations of well-founded buying guides.

Well-known brands and manufacturers?

The best-known and most popular pool filter system brands and manufacturers include:

  • Intex
  • Bestway

No Name is not a no go:

With these manufacturers, customers can rely on years of experience, but unknown brands do not always mean poorer quality; pay attention to reviews from customers and well-founded guides on the subject.

Build a pool filter pump yourself?

Skilled DIY enthusiasts can also build their own pump for their pool. This saves a lot of money and is an exciting task. The disadvantage is that they work less effectively than the professional models.

If you would like to try it out, you can find instructions in this YouTube video:

Pool Sand Filter Part 1

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about pool pumps

How do filter pumps for the pool work?

This type of pump draws in the pool water and then forces it through a special quartz sand. The clean water is then pumped back into the pool. The sand retains dirt particles or insects. The result is clear and hygienic water.

What power should a pool pump have?

The performance of the pump must match the size of the pool. The manufacturers indicate how many liters of water the model is suitable for. You should choose the optimum fit, because a pump that is too powerful wastes too much electricity and a version that is too weak cleans the pool inadequately.

Not all models are compatible with salt water. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer beforehand.

How long should a pool pump run?

A pump does not have to run continuously, but must circulate the water in the pool once a day. If you buy the right model for the amount of water, the instructions will always state how long the pump needs to run to clean the entire amount of water.

How does backwashing work with pool pumps?

Here is a step-by-step guide:

  • Switch off the pump and set the valve to backwash.
  • Open the sealing cap.
  • Switch on the pump and let it run for a few minutes.
  • Set the valve to rinse.
  • Switch off the pump after about 30 seconds and set the valve back to filtering.
  • There are detailed videos on YouTube that demonstrate this process visually.

How high can a pool pump pump?

This has to do with the delivery rate. It varies from model to model. A pool pump with a delivery head of 4 m can transport the water well over the edge of the pool, but will not reach the roof.

The water column indicates the back pressure that the water has to overcome on its way to the pool. One meter of water column corresponds to a pressure of 0.1 bar.

How often should the water in the pool be circulated?

Ideally, the pool water should be completely circulated and filtered at least twice a day. The so-called circulation rate indicates how many liters of water per hour the pump filters. This allows you to calculate how many hours a day the model needs to be switched on.

Can the pool pump be left running at night?

Yes, that is of course possible. However, the pump does not usually have to work as long as people sleep. A timer should therefore be used. This allows users to set when the filter switches on and how long it runs.

Of course, it is also important that a pump that works at night is particularly quiet.

Should the pool pump be left running in winter?

So-called active overwintering is not only suitable for regions with short and mild winters. Pool owners who want to benefit from the pool all year round can also use the pump in winter, provided a heater is connected. To protect the pool from frost, it is important that the filter system runs for at least 4 hours a day, preferably in the morning.

It is also advisable to insulate the pump and pool for the winter. This protects the material even more effectively.

Which pool pump is the best?

There is no universal answer to this question. The right model must be selected based on the size of the pool, the available budget, filter requirements and environmental compatibility, as well as extras such as timers. Customers who read a buying guide can find the right model for them.

Pool pump does not prime – what to do?

As a layperson, customers can check the following things:

  • Is one of the tubes blocked or is the power supply unit not passing on any current?
  • Is the filter element clogged or dirty?
  • Is the pump positioned in relation to the tank so that the water cannot be sucked in?
  • Is one of the hoses kinked or damaged and the pump is not drawing any water?

If the answers to these questions do not help, you should ask a garden or pool specialist store or contact the manufacturer directly.

How much electricity does a pool pump consume?

This varies from model to model. A pump with an output of 500 watts corresponds to a consumption of 0.5 kW (kilowatts). For 60 minutes or 1 hour of operation, customers pay around $0.15 according to current electricity prices. Buyers can therefore calculate consumption on the basis of the wattage data.

How expensive is a good pool pump?

Customers can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a high-quality pump. Depending on which filter is used. It is important to realize that these are not the final costs. A sand filter pump may be more expensive initially, but is cheaper to run in the long term. This is due to the long-lasting sand.

Conclusion: The most popular pool filter pumps reviewed

Most people who do not work in a garden center know little about pool filter systems. Quite simply because it is not a topic that many people deal with in detail. However, such a purchase decision should never be made without careful consideration.

Efficient and effective:

BeyondSurfing’s buying guide not only provides the necessary knowledge in a compact way, but also presents the best models of the year. Customers who buy so well prepared save time and money in the long term.

Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

Laura

Beach and snorkeling expert
Laura lives in Greece and couldn't imagine a day without the sea on her doorstep. When she's not writing for BeyondSurfing, she likes to spend her free time on the beach or in the water with snorkeling gear.

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