![]() ![]() In my inground pool example, we need a pool pump with a 20.8-43 GPM flow rate range and 50 TDH (also called Feet of Head). Okay, we now have everything we need! All pool pump models will have charts with horsepower estimates based on flow rate ranges and total dynamic head. I go into more specifics in my complete guide on total dynamic head. Above ground pools typically fall around 30 TDH. Most inground pools will be somewhere around 50 TDH. The filter, pump, pipes, heater, backwash valve, return, and other accessories affect how water flows throughout your system. Total dynamic head is a resistance metric – it tells you the total amount of resistance in the hydraulic system of your pool. ![]() Let’s figure out the last main spec you need for your pool pump: total dynamic head. In this example, our flow rate range comes out to 20.8-43 GPM. You have to take the lower of those two values to make sure you don’t overwork any components of your pool, so your maximum flow rate comes to 43 GPM. Let’s also say that you have a 2.3 square foot sand filter (50 GPM max) and 1.5″ plumbing (43 GPM). With two turnovers per day, your minimum flow rate comes to 20.8 GPM. So, let’s say you have a 15,000 gallon inground pool. Min and Max Flow Rate RangeĪlmost there! Now that we have the minimum and maximum flow rates for your pool setup, put them together to get to your flow rate range: one of the two main specs for determining the pool pump size you need. Otherwise, you could risk damaging the setup for part of your pool environment. Always remember to take the lowest of the maximum flow rates for sizing up your pool pump. For example, the pipes leading to your spa could differ from the main pool area. Heads up: your plumbing setup may differ across your entire pool environment. If not, you can use these common values or ask your contractor. The maximum flow rate of your plumbing setup depends on the pipe size and should be clearly labeled on your system. You never want to put more pressure in your pipes than they can handle. Now that we have filters settled, let’s move on to maximum flow rates for plumbing. 60 square feet surface area = 90-120 GPM.48 square feet surface area = 72-96 GPM.36 square feet surface area = 54-72 GPM.24 square feet surface area = 36-48 GPM.Plan for approximately 1.75 GPM per square foot of surface area, assuming the middle of the ranges below. ![]() 400 square feet surface area = 100-150 GPMĭE filters are a little rangy as well.300 square feet surface area = 80-112 GPM.200 square feet surface area = 55-75 GPM.100 square feet surface area = 32-38 GPM.Typically, you’re going to average 0.3 to 0.35 GPM per square foot of surface area. Sand FiltersĪs a general rule of thumb, sand filters typically fall between 19-22 Max GPM per square foot of surface area.Ĭartridge filters are a lot bigger and a little less exact. Here are the flow rates for common filter types and sizes. Make sure you stay below the maximum flow rates for your filter system, or you could end up damaging it. There are three types of pool filters (sand, cartridge, and DE), and all of them have different maximum flow rates based on their surface area. It is completely dependent on your plumbing system and other pool equipment, all of which should have documentation on maximum flow rates. Maximum Flow Rateįortunately, you don’t have to do a bunch of fancy math to figure out your maximum flow rate. Okay, let’s move on to the next part of my pool pump sizing – figuring out your maximum flow rate. This is where variable speed pool pumps come in handy – they can speed up and slow down when you need them to, resulting in a much safer pool chemistry and energy-efficient setup, which is a nice savings on that electric bill. The opposite is true for higher horsepower and shorter run times. Running at low horsepower for longer periods of time results in a more balanced water chemistry, but can be a sink on your electricity bill. The ultimate goal is efficiency – balancing electricity bill savings with pump horsepower and balanced water chemistry.
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