Best Above Ground Pool Pumps – Reviews & Buying Guide
It may not be an exaggeration if you equate your above ground pool pump with your heart. An above ground pump does exactly what your heart does inside your body. Whilst the heart circulates blood through your body the best above ground pool pump circulates water throughout the pool. Hence it is imperative that like your heart your best pool pump for above ground pool should be operating at optimum efficiency. You may not have the option of choosing the heart that you want but on the contrary there is nothing stopping you from selecting the best above ground pool pump. To select the above ground pool pump of your choice it is imperative that you take into consideration some salient aspects, if you need it to operate at optimum efficiency. To ensure long term trouble free operation it is imperative you select the best and nothing less.
Amazon Best Selling Above Ground Pool Pumps
How to find good above ground pool pump?
First on the agenda to consider is the issue of perfectly marrying and matching your above ground pool with the above ground pump of your choice. To do so considering the size of your above ground pool is very important. A simple equation to consider is that a small pool would need a low capacity pool pump for above ground pool whilst a large pool would need a proportionately large capacity above ground pump. To ensure the perfect match it is imperative to size your above ground pool and then go out searching for the above ground pump. It is prudent to look for the appropriate pool pump for the above ground pool rather than the other way around. You cannot put the cart before the horse hence get yourself a lovely pool before you search for the most compatible and perfect pool pump above ground.
To help you to make the most balanced decision on the best above ground pool pump we have selected and compiled the 10 best above ground pool pumps for your perusal and positive consideration.
Best Above Ground Pool Pump Review Summary
Rank | Product Name | Review Score | Get Latest Amazon Deal |
---|---|---|---|
#1 | Hayward SP1580X15 Power-Flo 1.5 HP Above-Ground Pool Pump | 9.8 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.8 / 10) |
#2 | Hayward SP1593 PowerFlo Matrix 1.5 HP Above Ground Pool Pump | 9.7 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.7 / 10) |
#3 | Harris H1572730 ProForce 1.5 HP Above Ground Pool Pump | 9.6 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.6 / 10) |
#4 | Self Primming 1.5 HP Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump | 9.5 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.5 / 10) |
#5 | Pentair Dynamo 340197 1 HP Above Ground Pool Pump | 9.5 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.5 / 10) |
#6 | Pentair Dynamo 340210 1.5 Horsepower Above Ground Pool Pump | 9.4 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.4 / 10) |
#7 | TruSonik Inground and Above Ground Pools Pump | 9.3 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.3 / 10) |
#8 | Hayward SP1592TL HP Above-Ground Swimming Pool Pump | 9.2 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.2 / 10) |
#9 | Energy Efficient 2 Speed Pump for Above-Ground Pool | 9.1 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.1 / 10) |
#10 | XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed Above Ground Pool Pump | 9.1 | Check Price & Deals on Amazon (9.1 / 10) |
Here are the Best Above Ground Pool Pumps
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Recommendation
⇒ If it is a Hayward you have nothing much to contemplate because the name is older than us. Hence selecting from their wide range and picking this powerful 1.5 HP above ground pump should hold you in good stead. It is good value for money and a good product for long term usage.
Review Summary Hayward SP1580X15 Power-Flo 1.5 HP Above-Ground Pool Pump
The Hayward name has been intertwined with the pool equipment industry for 80 long years and will definitely roll over into the future too. They have toiled hard to bring innovative pool products to their discerning customers the world over and has been a force to reckon with and envied by their competitors. Research and Development (R&D) has been their forte which has enabled them to perennially remain a few steps in front of their competitors by their innovative and revolutionary product development. The Hayward SP1580X15 Power-Flo 1.5 HP Above-Ground Pool Pump is just one of the many above ground pool pump and filter systems they have bestowed on their loyal customers.
The 1.5 HP high powered motor that drives this above ground pool pump has a heat resistant double sized seal and is design engineered ensuring 100% drip proof for long lasting optimum efficiency in operation. The 1.5 inches water intake and discharge aided by the high performance impeller ensures this best above ground pool pump delivers on its boasts. The tough thermoplastic outer casing built to endure the vagaries of Nature is corrosion free and with the transparent cover an easy peep in would apprise you of the time to clean up the debris and dirt collected.
Pros and Cons Hayward SP1580X15 Power-Flo 1.5 HP Above-Ground Pool Pump
Pros
- A Hayward product
- Tough thermoplastic outer casing
- Efficient impeller
- 100% drip proof
- 5 HP motor
Cons
- A few warranty issues
Recommendation
⇒ This above ground pump is backed by 80 years of experience and expertise from the House of Hayward hence there is nothing much to contemplate if you are to use this to circulate the water in your above ground pool. This above ground pool pump is meticulously designed engineered to perform at high efficiency. It is good value for money.
Review Summary Hayward SP1593 PowerFlo Matrix 1.5 HP Above Ground Pool Pump
Hayward PowerFlo Matrix is the ultimate in above ground pool pump technology with a powerful 1.5 HP motor to assist and deliver very high performance in maintaining superlative water flow to ensure optimum efficiency. Consistent water flow maintained by the Hayward SP1593 PowerFlo Matrix 1.5 HP Above Ground Pool Pump ensures your above ground pool would be always clear, clean and healthy. The Noryl impeller is designed to ensure precision operation with wide openings to prevent clogging from leaves and other large debris. This pool pump for above ground pool is equipped with an integrated molded drain which facilitates easy winterization.
The transparent lid of the large strainer compartment is conveniently accessible and could hold above average debris compared to any other similar above ground pool pump. This enables longer cleaning intervals only when it is required. At the press of a conveniently placed button this best above ground pool pump could be converted from a vertical to horizontal orientation. User maintenance is made very simple with the internal diagnostics well protected by the hard, tough and strong casing made of the best materials researched and developed by the House of Hayward. The one year manufacturer’s limited warranty offered say’s all about this versatile pool pump for above ground pool.
Pros
- A Hayward product
- Large openings in the Noryl impeller
- Large strainer basket
- Longer cleaning cycles of strainer
- 1.5 HP motor
- Transparent strainer lid
Cons
- Some administrative issues pertaining to service
Recommendation
⇒ This is a Harris product hence carries the weight of the name and is engineered with precision for superlative performance. This is the right pool pump for above ground pool which you should have installed to keep your water clean, clear and healthy.
Review Summary Harris H1572730 ProForce 1.5 HP Above Ground Pool Pump
This Harris above ground pool pump is tough outside and impressive in the inside, delivering efficiency at its optimum. This is one of the best pool pump for above ground pool with the 1.5 HP motor shaft design constructed with high quality stainless steel encompassed in a reinforced thermoplastic casing to withstand anything that Nature throws at it. Years of Research and Development (R&D) has culminated in the Harris H1572730 ProForce 1.5 HP Above Ground Pool Pump being bestowed with advances in engineering standards, par excellence providing optimum efficiency. The minimal noise level exuded by the powerful motor is just audible if you are to monitor it at very close proximity.
This pool pump above ground meets and exceeds all statutory standards especially the mandatory CSA and ETL requirements. The three feet long power cord plugs into a 110~120 volt socket which needs to be earthed. The external 2.5 inches and internal 1.5 inches threading enables convenient water flow connections without much of a hassle. This best above ground pool pump is manufactured under very stringent conditions to hold up the years of reputation painstakingly built up by Harris. This versatile pool pump for above ground pool is in a class of its own and has all the right credentials to deliver superlative and exemplary service to keep your pool clean, clear and healthy.
Pros
- A versatile Harris product
- 5 HP motor with stainless steel shaft
- 5 inches external and 1.5 internal threads
- Low noise levels
- Meets CSA and ETL requirements
- Reinforced thermoplastic casing
Cons
- Customer issues on performance
- Warranty problems
Recommendation
⇒ If you are contemplating of replacing your existing above ground pump then this is the one which you should be picking. It has all the right credentials to deliver on its promises and also a superlative product which would give long term.
The built in automatically activated thermal overload protector is one of the most innovative safety precautions that have been incorporated into this above ground pool pump. Its self-priming ability ensures you are relieved of that problem and this best pool pump for above ground pool delivers efficiency as promised. This articulately design engineered Self Primming 1.5 HP Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump is manufactured with the finest materials. The strong, sturdy and all-weather proof outer casing is molded out of fiber-glass reinforced thermoplastic. It is able to stand the vagaries of Nature and provide not only exemplary long term service but at optimum levels too. All the internal diagnostics are precision manufactured using the best and durable materials to ensure they last many year of use.
Equipped with a powerful 1.5 HP high performance motor which has been designed to consume the minimum of power when operational this pool pump above ground is silent as it could get. Noise levels are at low decibels ensuring powerful operation but silent disposition. The intake and discharge water connections are limited to 1.5 inches with a very efficient and optimum water flow of 4,900 Gallons per hour (GPH). The conveniently fitting 2 piece union connections make way for simple and quick DIY installation. The transparent strainer lid facilitates easy observation when leaves and debris. This is the best above ground pool pump and it delivers excellent results in keeping your pool clean, clear and healthy at all times.
Pros
- Super silent in operation
- Auto thermal overload protector
- Self-priming pump
- 5 HP motor
- 4,900 GPH
- Quick
- Strong, sturdy and durable outer casting
- All-weather proof
Cons
- Warranty issues
- Customer satisfaction at a low ebb
Recommendation
⇒ This is a high class product coming from a recognized manufacturer which meets all safety standards and is strong and durable in operation delivering excellent results. This best above ground pool pump is good value for money and just what you need to keep your pool clear, clean and healthy for all.
Review Summary-Pentair Dynamo 340197 1 HP Above Ground Pool Pump
This above ground pool pump is another superlative innovation from Pentair, a name synonymous with quality swimming pool equipment. Years of painstaking Research and Development (R&D) has seen Pentair introduce pool equipment par excellence to suit every whim and fancy of pool owners all over the world. Like all the products that they have introduced in the past the Pentair Dynamo 340197 1 HP Above Ground Pool Pump also meets their high standards. The above ground pool pump and filter systems which have been introduced by Pentair have all withstood the test of time. This pool pump above ground is molded under the most stringent conditions from reinforced high quality fiberglass to ensure it stays durable and strong to withstand the vagaries of Nature that it would be exposed to. The complete above ground pump is corrosion free.
The icing on the cake is this best above ground pool pump and filter when installed combine to bring you high quality performance of the highest standards. This pool pump for above ground pool is design engineered with a large capacity strainer basket which is easily visible from its transparent lid. Flipping open the lid access to the easily removed strainer provides cleaning it from debris, dust and dirt very convenient. The large strainer basket enables longer cleaning cycles as it holds ample space within it.
Pros
- A quality Pentair product
- Transparent lid
- Large strainer basket
- Reinforced fiberglass outer casing
- Corrosion free
Cons
- Some warranty and administration issues
Recommendation
⇒ A good product worth every dollar that you would dole out providing exemplary service of the highest standards in comparison to any other pool pump above ground.
Review Summary Pentair Dynamo 340210 1.5 Horsepower Above Ground Pool Pump
The precision engineered hydraulic systems incorporated into this pool pump above ground ensure it performs to exemplary standards as promised by the manufacturer. This is a Pentair above ground pump hence comes with all the positives that are built into it. The internal diagnostics are innovative ensuring smooth and superlative performance compared to any other above ground pump in its category. The casing of this pool pump for above ground pools is molded from high quality reinforced fiberglass thus ensuring long life operation without incessant hassles like other pool pumps in its category. This is corrosion free. The port provided in this best above ground pool pump and filter when attached combine to provide you with pool cleaning of the highest order ensuring a clear and healthy swimming pool at all times.
The transparent strainer lid of the Pentair Dynamo 340210 1.5 Horsepower Above Ground Pool Pump ensures an easy peep inside to observe the quantity of debris, dirt and dust inside. The large strainer collects more debris ensuring the removal and cleaning intervals of the strainer basket are far in-between which keeps you less on your toes. The 1.5 inch intake and discharge ports built into this best above ground pool pump assists in the optimum flow of water at very efficient levels. This above ground pool filter pump is highly cost efficient to operate, whilst it consumes less energy to keep your pool clean, clear and healthy. This above ground pump is bestowed with a one year manufacturer’s limited warranty
Pros
- A brand that stands out
- Reinforced fiberglass construction
- Corrosion free
- Easy user maintenance
- Large strainer basket
- Longer strainer cleaning intervals
- A high performer
- One year limited warranty
- Delivers on its promises
- Costs less to operate
Cons
- Some performance issues
- Warranty claim anomalies
Recommendation
⇒ This pump is very heavy, strong, sturdy and durable pool pump above ground lasting you many years if you read the instruction manual and execute the installation in the appropriate manner. The casing and the internal diagnostics ensure every delicate part is held together when the pump is operational. Good value for money.
Review Summary-TruSonik Inground and Above Ground Pools Pump
This above ground pool filter pump is a design innovation manufactured to the highest quality standards to ensure many years of trouble free service in the harshest of weather conditions. This is possible because the internal diagnostics of the TruSonik Inground and Above Ground Pools Pump is safely encompassed in the strong and hardy corrosion proof polymer casing. The stainless steel drive shaft of the high power 2 HP motor is precision designed to ensure years of silent operation. It is the superlative performance that generally lifts any above ground pump above the others in its category and this pool pump above ground does just that.
Installation is very easy even if this assists a sand filter pump for above ground pool to keep your water clean, clear and healthy for all those who use your above ground pool. Connecting power is also a one simple step operation where you plug it into the nearest 110~120 volt electrical outlet. Helping out at 6,660 gallons per hour (GPH) of water through its system this above ground pool pump and sand filter when attached would give exemplary service for years without end. This best above ground pool pump is bestowed with a one year limited manufacturer’s warranty which speaks volumes for it quality standards.
Pros
- Powerful 2 HP motor
- 6,660 GPH
- Stainless steel drive shaft
- Silent operation
- Easy installation
- 110~120 volt operation
- Polymer casing
- Corrosion proof casing
Cons
- Some customer issues with performance
- Warranty anomalies too.
Recommendation
⇒ The name tells it all hence you could purchase this pool pump above ground to ensure your pool is clean, clear and healthy. It is a Hayward product hence has all the right credentials to perform at high efficiency and also be cost effective to operate. This is a good value for money product which would give years of exemplary service.
Review Summary-Hayward SP1592TL HP Above-Ground Swimming Pool Pump
PowerFlo Matrix developed by Hayward the esteemed name etched into the pool equipment industry with an 80 year reputation behind them bring this innovative and superlative above ground pool pump for all their discerning customers. Years of Research and Development (R&D) has culminated into design and manufacture of the Hayward SP1592TL HP Above-Ground Swimming Pool Pump. The large sized strainer basket allows for longer cleaning cycles which is conveniently observed through the transparent lid covering it. The built in ON/OFF switch allows for easy control of the above ground pump at the point of operation rather than accessing the power outlet every time it needs to be shut down. A press of a button converts this above ground pool filter pump from a horizontal to vertical orientation for optimum discharge efficiency which many in its category would find difficult to match.
The outer casing of this best above ground pool pump is constructed with the best materials to protect the internal diagnostics with the integrated thermal overload protector is just one of them. Design engineered to operate at high precision and maintain a high level of efficiency this above ground pool pump and sand filter when attached provide just that. Hayward has an indelible reputation for innovating high quality pool equipment and has been in the forefront in the industry. This above ground pool filter pump adds proudly onto their profile and has also proved its mettle just like every other product that has rolled out of their manufacturing facilities.
Pros
- A Hayward product
- Built strong and sturdy to last a lifetime
- PowerFlo Matrix technology
- Integrated thermal overload protector
- Horizontal or vertical orientation, at the flick of a switch
Cons
- Some performance issues
- Warranty issues
Recommendation
⇒ This above ground pool pump is highly energy efficient with its two speeds operation which costs less than others in its category. The strong corrosion free casing encompasses all its important diagnostics and protects them from the harsh weather conditions outside.
Review Summary-Energy Efficient 2 Speed Pump for Above-Ground Pool
This pool pump above ground is an energy saver which is amply aided by its inherent two speeds operation which is mandatory in some jurisdictions within the United States and elsewhere too. The two speeds operation allows for low at 1,750 RPM at 3.2 amps and the high at 3,450 RPM at 10 amps. Either of two could be controlled by an easy and convenient to use switch. The versatility in its design technology and cost effective operation propels this to be one of the best above ground pool among its category. The easy to plug in six feet long power cord assists in easily connecting this above ground pool pump and sand filter when attached to be at its optimum best when operational. This above ground pump has all the credentials to stand tall among its competitors and hold its own.
The powerful 1 HP motor is built to ensure long lasting performance and ensure your above ground pool is always clean, clear and healthy. Operated on 110~120 volts power supply maintaining a water flow of 75 gallons per minute (GPM) this above ground pool pump and filter together could take water up to a height of 10.5 feet. The outer casing is made of high grade corrosion proof polymer which has been specially formulated to enhance strength and stability to this above ground pool pump. The Energy Efficient 2 Speed Pump for Above-Ground Pool has a very silent disposition and exudes noise level at very low decibels ensuring total quietness.
Pros
- Two speeds
- Energy saver
- Silent in operation
- Six feet long power cord
- Corrosion free polymer outer casing
Cons
- Some customer issues
Recommendation
⇒ It has all the credentials to be the best above ground pool pump and is design engineered to deliver on its promises. This above ground pool pump is good value for money and has been manufactured to deliver precision operation keeping you pool clear, clean and healthy.
Review Summary- XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed Above Ground Pool Pump
Equipped with a powerful 1.5 HP motor this above ground pool pump is compatible to operate with filters using either DE, sand of cartridges. Boasting of a water flow equivalent to 101 GPM this pool pump for above ground pool display wattage usage and is controlled by a LCD digital screen. Speed settings and a 24 hour timer enables easy operation of the above ground filter pump even when you are not present to switch it on physically. The four programmable speed settings coupled with the timer there is ample reason for you to install this pool pump above ground to ensure your water in the pool is always clean, clear and healthy. Easily removable transparent cover on the strainer basket to observe it quickly to ensure it is kept clean and free of clogging.
The XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed Above Ground Pool Pump is ETL certified and is also bestowed with many mandatory certifications which needs to be checked for your information. Professional installation is advised to ensure you derive the optimum benefits from this above ground pool pump. Operates on 220~240 volts and to ensure you derive optimum efficiency from this pool pump for above ground pool it needs to be properly commanded to operate using the settings in the digital panel.
Pros
- LCD digital control
- 24 hour timer
- ETL certified
- 101 GPM
- Compatible with DE, sand or cartridge
- Powerful 1.5 HP motor
- 220~240 volts
- Clear strainer cover
- Longer intervals in cleaning
Cons
- Need professional help to install
- Some operational issues
How to Select Your Above Ground Pool Pump
The most important aspect to seriously take into consideration is to match not only your above ground pool pump with your pool but to consider it in totality. It is imperative that you match both your pool pump for above ground pools and the filter that you intend using together as one unit with the pool that you have designed, built or already constructed. It is important that all three matches like hands in gloves if not you could be either over working your filter or pump. On the contrary having large and powerful above ground pool pumps and filter systems for a small domestic pool is a waste of energy and money.
Hence it is imperative that you match all three prudently to ensure optimum efficiency is maintained and you incur the least cost in operating the system. Hence you would need to take into consideration the size of your pool, the capacity of the filter and the power of the above ground pump. It is also imperative that you flow through all the water in your pool at least once a day through your filter. This is ably assisted by your above ground pool pump and filter systems. Hence it would take some learning to do by taking the size of your pool. The total capacity of the water it could hold and then work upwards from there because the total quantity of water would determine.
If you could match all three perfectly the chances are that you would be spending less than the money spent by your neighbor on a similar sized pool. It is only when you get the right combination would your pool be always clean, clear and healthy for all. The best above ground pool pump and filter that you select and install should be able to withstand the quantity of water in the pool and ensure optimum circulation.
How to Size Your Above Ground Pool Pump
Comparing an in-ground pool with an above ground pool the difference between the two is that the water line in the latter is above the pool pump, whereas in an in-ground pool the water line is below. Whilst the water in an in-ground pool has to be sucked in by the pool pump in the above ground pool the forces of gravity come into play. This is because the pool pump being below has the water already flowing into it. This simple scientific consideration does have a very evident effect on both types of swimming pools.
We shall consider the above ground pools for this particular exercise, and consider how we could size our above ground pool pump to operate at optimum efficiency delivering the best results at the minimum cost. The plumbing that is required is minimal which is to connect them to the suction port of your above ground pump. Taking the simplicity of this operation especially where a pump is being sized for an above ground pool, the size of the pool would matter.
Starting from the smaller size, a small sized pool could operate with high efficiency with a ¾ HP above ground pump a medium sized above ground pool could be cleaned up with the use of a 1 HP pool pump above ground. A larger above ground pool needs a 1.5 HP pool pump for above ground pool. It is imperative that you take into consideration the size of the pool and match it with the best above ground pool pump. Into the same equation comes the pool filter too and once you have the two perfectly matched the installation would not be much of a hassle. It should not be the idea to get a bigger above ground pool pump for your small sized pool on the premise that it would do a better job than a smaller pool pump. This is a waste of energy because it would be prudent to match your pool with your filter and above ground pool pump.
It would also be prudent to purchase a good quality above ground pool pump if you want to ensure optimum efficiency is maintained in cleaning up your above ground pool. Energy costs are steadily rising and there are no silver linings on the horizon that prices could come down. Hence your above ground pool should be operating at optimum efficiency without being a drain on your wallet. Though a swimming pool was considered a luxury and status symbol a few years ago things have turned around in the recent years. A swimming pool especially the easily installed above ground pools are a part of many a household and maintaining them is within the purview of many. Hence getting your best options and doing it right saves you a lot of trouble.
Troubleshooting Problems in Your Above Ground Pool Pump
One very important thing that you need to keep in mind is your safety. Above ground pool pumps operate on electricity which could be dangerous and fatal if tampered with by those who are not qualified to do so. Hence it is imperative that you do not meddle around with your pool pump above ground but call a qualified professional to attend to any issues. If you find any niggling issues like excessive noise from the pool pump above ground which are sometimes easily correctable looking at it with caution should be considered. Whatever you would do it would be prudent to remove the power from the above ground pump before you get close to it. There is many a slip between the cup and the lip hence extra care and extreme caution should be exercised at all times.
There are a few issues that you could rectify without much of a problem but still it would be prudent to remove the power plug from the electricity supply. This is because you may not know whether it is an electrical leakage that is causing the malfunction or some other issue. Once you have disconnected the power supply and if it is noise and vibration placing a rubber mat or thick carpet on the base of the above ground pool pump could eliminate or partially reduce the vibrating noise. Though you may do this it would be in your better interests to have it checked by a professional because a stitch in time saves nine.
The vibrations or incessant noise emanating from the pool pump for above ground pool could also be rust within the motor which is better looked at by a professional. It is imperative that you are fully aware of what you are doing before you would put your hand especially with the dangers of electricity shock prevailing on any false move you may make. Dabbling with electricity is dangerous hence calling a professional would be your best choice.
How to Wire an Above-ground Pool Pump
Wiring an above ground pool pump may look simple and with so many advice available online you may think it is child’s play. Electricity is dangerous and calling a professional is your better option. Being penny wise pound foolish or putting it the other way around to suit our country as “cent wise dollar foolish” should not be the option open to you. You may save a few dollars but if your wiring is wrong you could have disaster in your hands. The best above ground pool pump could go bust and fit to be thrown away or worst you could face unprecedented danger. Hence if you are not technically savvy, then your best and prudent option is to hire a professional and get your wiring attended to.
You may have other issues in your wiring which could affect this hence it would be advisable to have a qualified electrician to attend to your wiring of the above ground pool pump and filter systems and save you some trouble. There have been many accidents that have occurred due to wrong wiring which would also not cover warranties on any electrical appliance you may buy. The same yardstick applies to any above ground pool pump and filter systems you hope to install hence get a professional.