How to Hook Up an Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump

Your above ground pool, whether equipped with a sand filter or a filter cartridge is dependent on the pump to circulate the water. For proper pool care and performance, circulation is the key. No other single element is as critical to the efficiency of your pool system.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pump
• Filter
• 1 1/4-inch PVC pipe
• Various PVC pipe fittings
• PVC pipe cement
• Hack saw
• Tape Measure

1. Plumb from the pool to the pump. Your pool will be equipped with a skimmer device. You will attach your first section of pipe to the base of the skimmer. The actual length of the pipe needed will depend on where you will want to locate the pump. You should be certain to locate the pump in an area where it can be easily accessed both for service and cleaning. Don't try to match the pump to the plumbing; make the plumbing go to where you want the pump. The pipe should join into the pump and feed directly into a second skimmer basket. The fittings required will depend on the brand and type of pump you have purchased.

2. Plumb from the pump to the filter. Use another fitting and section of pipe to connect the pump to the filter. The filter should be marked 'inlet' and 'outlet.' Connect the pipe from the pump to the inlet side of the filter. In each case keep the amount of pipe used to an absolute minimum. This will lower your cost and increase pump efficiency.

3. Plumb from the filter back to the pool. Take a final section of pipe and connect the outlet port of the filter to the pool inlet. This will complete the water flow which will return clean water to your pool. Make certain all pipe joints and fittings are secure.

4. Keep the pump as close to ground level as possible. This will prevent the pump from draining when it is off. If the pump drains it may be necessary to prime the pump before it will return to normal operation. Your filter should be equipped with a pressure gauge. If not, you will want to purchase one and install it within your system in order to accurately monitor the performance of your system.

5. Consider your electrical requirements. Most brands of pumps will run on 120 volt single phase power. If you already have power near the area where the pool will be assembled, you should consider aligning the pool to eliminate the need of additional wiring. If the outlet does not have a GFCI outlet, you should definitely install one before using the system. This will protect you from potential serious or fatal injury.

Tips & Warnings

• Use schedule 40 PVC pipe. Some may consider this overkill, but for only a small increase in price you get a much sturdier pipe and will eliminate maintenance issues further down the line.
• When working with the electrical portion of the installation, you will want to be certain the power is turned off at the breaker. Water and electricity don't mix, don't take chances.