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How Long Should I Run My Pool Pump in Summer?

In a Bakersfield summer, run a single-speed pool pump 8 to 12 hours a day, enough to move all of the pool's water through the filter at least once. In winter, 6 to 8 hours is usually enough. Run it longer during heat waves, after storms, after heavy use, and any time the water is cloudy or green. A variable-speed pump can run longer at low speed and still use less electricity.
Pentair variable-speed pool pump sold and installed by Top Dog Pool Supply in Bakersfield

How do I figure out the right run time?

  • Start at 8 hours a day in summer and adjust.
  • If the water turns dull or cloudy, or algae starts, add 2 hours.
  • If the water stays clear and chlorine holds, you can trim an hour and watch.
  • Bigger pools, pools with lots of trees or swimmers, and pools in full sun need more.
  • A salt pool only makes chlorine while the pump runs, so it may need more hours in summer.

When should I run it?

  • Mostly during the day. Sun burns off chlorine, and circulation keeps chlorine mixed when it is needed most.
  • If you are on a time-of-use electric rate, move some hours away from the peak period.
  • Run it for several hours after adding chemicals, and overnight after shocking.
  • It is fine to split the time into two blocks.

When should I run it longer?

  • Heat waves. Hot water uses chlorine faster and grows algae faster.
  • After a wind storm, to clear dust and debris.
  • After a pool party.
  • While clearing cloudy or green water. Run it 24 hours a day until the water is clear.
  • On freezing nights in winter. Moving water protects the pipes and equipment.

Can I save money on pump run time?

The best way is a variable-speed pump. Running at low speed for more hours filters the water better and uses far less power than a single-speed pump running flat out. Pentair rates the IntelliPro3 VSF for up to 90% energy savings compared with single-speed pumps, and Top Dog installs it free in Bakersfield when you buy it from us. Cutting run time too short on a single-speed pump usually costs more in chemicals and algae cleanups than it saves in power.

Should I run my pool pump 24 hours a day?

Only while clearing cloudy or green water, or with a variable-speed pump at low speed. For a clear pool on a single-speed pump, 8 to 12 hours in summer is enough.

Is it better to run the pump during the day or at night?

Mostly during the day, when the sun is using up chlorine. If you have time-of-use electric rates, shift some hours off peak.

How long should I run the pump in winter?

6 to 8 hours a day. Run it overnight when freezing temperatures are forecast.

Do I need to run the pump when I add chemicals?

Yes, always. Run it at least 4 to 6 hours afterward, and overnight after shock.

Don't cry, we can help

Bring a water sample to Top Dog Pool Supply. Local pool owners get a free water test on our Taylor Xpress Flex system, and we'll tell you what to add, and how much, for your pool's size. Visit us at 7440 District Blvd Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93313, or call (661) 664-9000. We're open Monday to Friday 9 to 5, Saturday 9 to 4, and Sundays 10 to 4 from April through September.

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ADDRESS
7440 District Blvd Suite B Bakersfield, CA 93313
Phone: (661) 664-9000
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Bakersfield, CA, with Zip Codes 93301, 93304, 93305, 93306, 93309, 93311, 93312, 93313, and 93314 HOURS Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm Sat: 9am–4pm Sun: 10am–4pm (April–September)
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