How Long to Run Pump?

[gpshemi]

It all really depends on the size of the pump. I have a 90gpm pump and an 8500gallon pool.

Running a 15 amp motor 24 hours a day would be (1800watts x 24hrs x 30 days) = 1296000watt hours or 1296kwh. At 11 cents a kwh that's roughly $142 a month extra. You'll notice it. Even a two speed motor if you cut that amperage to 25% (3.5amps) you should see $35-40 difference. At todays prices I can't afford to filter that long. Not to mention that my pump would be rotating my pool like 13 times over per day if I ran it 10 hours a day. It doesn't need that.

Assuming it stays in line chemically, a few hours a day max.

[traceyb]

all right guys........the new 30' pool at 52" is up and running. It looks great. I am finally a forum guest WITH a pool. I was wondering if I should be running the pump and filter 24/7 initially or is 12-14 hrs a day ok? The chemicals are slowly being adjusted and the only thing so far (in 3 days post fill) is that the chlorine level needs to be drastically higher. so with that I wasn't sure when I should start the shorter running time. Thanks all!

[CJDahl]

I just opened up my newly installed IG pool. I was wondering how long I need to run this early in the season? I have chemically balanced water and my pump sized to do a turnover every 5.5 hours. Water & air temperature is only around 60 degrees. Also sounds like many are filtering two cycles per day instead of one. What is the optimal? Thanks in advance for any guidance.

[tenax]

i like 2 turnover cycles of 5 to 6 hours each depending on pool, pump and filter size. that works for me and gives me a cycle in the evening where i can tweak chemicals as necessary and still give them a full turnover cycle. (i.e. the bleach i've been putting in for past 2 days..a couple of jugs in the morning at start of the cycle, then when i get home tonight at 5, i'll put some more in and have the next cycle start.) once you get in season, you may want to adjust your cycles due to having a pump heater running for example (if you need that in your area)

[Jeffski]

I have noticed a huge difference in water cleanliness and clarity by running the pump 24/7 compared to 10-12 hours a day last year. Therefore I would highly recommend 24/7 for the first 2 weeks after opening until your pool is clean and balanced and then try backing off some.

[TJNav]

I usually run my pump on a timer 13 to 15 hours a day in 2 blocks. Generally 10am-8pm then 2am-6am. I like the pump on when we're swimming to take advantage of the water being stirred up. Also, I test and add chlorine when I get home in the evening (while the pump is on) to get the most benefit before the sun eats it up.

Tom


40,000 gal
IG Vinyl

[CJDahl]

Assuming I turn over my pool in twice in 12 hours should I divide pump operation evenly over 24 hours (e.g. on one hour/off one hour) , or am I better off running during the day in 2 x 6 hour hours during the day and 12 hours off at night ? Is there any advantage to running during the day versus at night (assuming at this point no one is in the pool). (I can turn on/off infinite number of times with home automation).
thanks !!