How Long Do I Run the Filter on My Above-Ground Pool?

Swimming pools, both above- and in-ground, are equipped with filters. The filters run pool water, cleaning it and clearing debris. How long you should run your pool pump will depend on conditions specific to your pool and its location.

Size

• Swimming pool filters should be run long enough to filter all the water in the pool once per day. Larger pools contain more water than small pools, so their filters should be run longer. Since most above-ground pools are smaller than in-ground pools, you will probably run yours for less time.

Pump Efficiency

• A pool with an inadequate or inefficient filter will have to run longer than one with a filter appropriate to the pool. If you purchase the filter yourself, ask the manufacturer how many gallons per day it is able to filter; compare this to your pool capacity. Above-ground pools less than 24 feet in diameter will generally call for a 1 hp filter; larger will require a 1.5 hp filter.

Environment

• An above-ground pool that is surrounded by a lot of trees or has a large number of swimmers in it each day will require more filtering because more contaminants (such as leaves, sunblock and dirt) will enter it each day. Consider this when thinking about how long to run your filter.

Time Frame

• Ultimately, if your pool is much smaller than 24 feet in diameter with a 1hp filter, not excessively used, and not near a lot of trees, you can plan to run it around 8 to 12 hours per day during the swimming season. Adding in any stress on the water as listed above will require longer run times. Test your water pH frequently -- try taking it to a pool supply store for a free evaluation -- to ensure maximum efficiency.