Proper Pump Size

by John
(Chicago)

What size pool pump and filter do I need for a dough boy 24 foot pool 3' 6" deep. I bought a house that came with a pool, filter and pump. The current pump and filter don't seem to be working correctly. I'm using an earth filter, after about 30 minutes the clean water coming out of the filter slows down almost coming to a complete stop. I have re-generated the filter countless times but it always goes back to the same problem, I think the pump and filter may be bad???

Hi. The filter elements might be bad and in need of replacing. It seems they are either worn out or not getting cleaned well enough. It appears the system itself is working properly because with a freshly cleaned unit is operates as it should.

If you are looking to replace the system you might consider a sand filter. They are very efficient and easy to operate.

The most effective systems use a two speed pump using about a ¾ and 1 ½ horse powers. The idea with this is the water is better cleaned and circulated at a lower speed and you also use much less electricity. The higher speed, however, is needed for proper cleaning of the pool.

If a single speed 1 ½ HP pump is used consider adding a second return to allow for the flow of water this pump would need.