How to Install a Swimming Pool Pump

A pool pump is an important part of the overall filtration system and requires correct sizing and installation to be effective. For above ground pools up to and including a 24-foot round, a 1-horse power pump is the correct size. All larger pools need 1 ½-horse power pumps. Another consideration is the correct corresponding sand filter size to accompany the pump. Too large of a canister will prevent good water flow during filtering and backwashing, due to too much sand, whereas too small a canister will not handle the power of the pump and channels will develop effecting filtration quality.

Things You'll Need

• Ground fault interrupt circuit
• Pump
• Pump base
• Teflon tape
• 2 Hose adaptors
• 2 Hose clamps
• 6-foot Filter hose
• Heavy-duty return flow hose
• Flathead screwdriver

Instructions

1. The installation of your pump requires that a certified electrician provide the location with a Ground Fault Interrupt Circuit. This will allow for a fast disconnect of power, should electrocution become an issue. Make sure that the location of the pump be close to the pool, but not underneath a deck or inside of an enclosure. The pump needs ample ventilation to prevent overheating, and it must be accessible for servicing as well.

2. Place the pump on cinder blocks or a platform of your own choosing to keep it from any flooding potential. Make sure that the pump placement and its wiring in no way create a safety hazard for people walking past it.

3. Attach the pump to the pump base that comes with the filtration system by means of the two bolts provided. Place the pump base immediately next to the canister base and attach the two together if the manufacturer designed it to fit that way. Check the placement to make sure it is vibration free.

4. Screw in plastic hose adaptors into the input and output ports of the pump. Use Teflon tape on the threaded ends of the fittings to ensure a tight fit. Tighten with your hands only; do not use vise-grips or wrenches, which can exert too much force and crack the plastic.

5. Screw a plastic gate valve onto the hose adaptor on the input port, which will facilitate water stoppage for future maintenance projects.

6. Attach the 6-foot filter hose to the gate valve and the other end into the hose adaptor built into the base of your skimmer.

7. Attach the heavy-duty return flow hose to the output port of the pump.

8. Secure all hose-connections with hose clamps by placing the hose clamp around the outside of the hose like a collar and tightening the screw on the clamp with a flathead screwdriver. Tighten them as tightly as you can so they will not slip off during pressurization and filtration.

9. Attach the hose to the filter canister and test the pump. Recheck all connections and power if it is not working.

Tips & Warnings

• Run the pump for at least eight hours a day on the filter setting during the swimming pool season.