Top 16 Best Above Ground Pool Pumps to Buy in 2024

There is no doubt that swimming in clear pool water will keep you away from the hot summer. To enjoy this feeling, you need to regularly clean and maintain your pool, especially when you own an above ground pool. And an essential accessory is a pool pump.

As you may all know, there are various types of pool pumps, including variable speed pool pumps, booster pumps, etc. You don’t know which one is the best for your above ground pool. How to select the right size? How to install the pump?

Don’t worry! I will go through the 16 best above ground pool pumps available on the market in the following review. I also include the buying guide and installation instructions to help you easily decide the right model for your pool.

Why You Need an Above Ground Pool Pump?

If anyone owns an above ground pool, they will understand how important it is to have a pump. If your heart is essential for your circulatory system, then the pool pump is also crucial for your pool. It doesn’t warm the pool water like heat pumps, but it is essential for water filtration.

Can you imagine what will happen if your swimming pool water is not drained, filtered, and refilled with clear water? Absolutely, there appears stagnant, cloudy, unhealthy water, which may affect your skin and health.

It is basically the process of pulling and pushing the water through the skimmer and the filter, respectively. But this action is extremely important because it helps keep the pool water crystal clear and clean. From that, you save lots of time on maintenance.

What’s more, for some types of above ground pool owners, you can’t operate the cleaning system if you don’t have a right pump that works properly. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the best above ground pool pumps for water clarity and low maintenance time and fees.

What Is the Best Pump for Above Ground Pool?

Below are some of the most excellent features of the products that I’m going to review. Looking at these features will let you know why they deserve the best above ground pool pumps. For more information, you can jump into the detailed review.

But first, let’s see the great functions together!

• Best Overall: Hayward SP1592 PowerFlo Matrix 1 HP Above-Ground Swimming Pool Pump
  “High-quality material; durability; large strainer basket included; high performance; easy to install and operate.”
• Best Price: Raypak Protege 1.5 Hp Aboveground Pool Pump
  “Reasonable price; easy to capture leaves and debris; simple installation; durable material.”
• Best With Sand Filter: Best Choice Products Pro 2400GPH 13″
  “6-way multiport valve; energy-efficient; powerful filtering and backwashing; quick installation.”
• Best Pump for Intex Above Ground Pool: Intex GPH Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump
  “Digital timer included; 6 different functions; innovative built-in hydro aeration technology; a large basket for easy debris capturing and maintenance.”
• Best Saltwater Pump System: Intex GPH Saltwater System
  “Effectively remove chlorine hassles; digital timer included; large capacity; quick installation and clean.”
• Best for Small Pools: Bestway GPH Filter Pump
  “Ultra-compact design; lightweight; 6-way operation valve; excellent at filtering; keep water clarity.”
• Quiestes Pump: Blue Wave TidalWave
  “Exceptionally quiet operation; corrosion resistance; cost-cutting; sturdy construction; durability.”
• Best Rated: Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools
  “Hydro aeration technology included; easy to install and maintain; power efficiency; improve water clarity.”
• Best Value for the Money: Summer Waves 1000 GPH Filter Pump for Above Ground Swimming Pools
  “Great built-in skimming technology; power efficient; large strainer basket for better performance and maintenance.”
• Best Pump for 18′ Above Ground Pool: Intex 28637EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump
  “Sediment flush valve; auto timer included; powerful replaceable cartridge filter; easy installation and maintenance.”
• Best With Cartridge Filter: Intex Krystal Clear 530 GPH Easy Set
  “Quick assembly and maintenance; easy to clean; great air release valve; hydro aeration technology included.”
• Best 1.5 Hp Above Ground Pool Pump: Doheny’s Pump
  “Stainless steel motor; heavy-duty and sturdy construction; durability; easy to capture debris; large strainer basket.”
• Best Pump for 24′ Above Ground Pool: Pentair PNCC0100OO1160
  “Incredible durability; strong and robust construction; complete attachment included; easy to install and clean.”
• Best Energy Efficient: XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed Above Ground Pool Pump
  “Excellent LCD screen; energy efficiency; 4 speeds for better performance; great integrated timer.”

Comparison Chart

When writing a review of any products, I always include a comparison where I summarize those products’ primary specifications. I think this comparison will help you distinguish the most confusing information between different models.

So, let’s compare the 16 best above ground pool pumps’ basic specifications without any more grandstanding.

The 16 Best Above Ground Pool Pumps Reviews

Let’s go into the most exciting part of this article. Here you will find the detailed review of the 16 best above ground pool pumps.

1. Hayward SP1592 PowerFlo Matrix 1 HP Above-Ground Swimming Pool Pump

(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)

See the Price on Amazon

The first thing to notice about the Hayward PowerFlo Matrix pool pump is its massive strainer basket. It comes with an incredibly large design to capture more debris, making the water crystal clear and offering lower maintenance.

Besides, this pool pump is exceptionally powerful. It can deliver or circulate the water really fast. What’s more, it offers an on/off switch, one of the parts contributing to the easy-to-install and easy-to-operate. Hence, it increases efficiency and saves more running time.

Another great feature of the Hayward PowerFlo Matrix pump is its heavy-duty and sturdy construction. Its material is strong enough to withstand the toughest conditions, which causes it to last many years to come.

2. Raypak Protege 1.5 Hp Aboveground Pool Pump

(Best Price)

See the Price on Amazon

Not all budget-friendly products come with low quality. Do you agree with me? At least with the Raypak Protege pool pump. Let’s see what makes this pump a great choice in a low price range.

The first excellent feature of this pump is a large basket, like the above Hayward pool pump. This design helps collect more debris for clearer water. Besides, it also produces a high flow rate, making the water circulation more sufficiently.

Above all, the Raypak Protege pump is constructed from exceptionally durable material. Its cover is made from ABS plastic, and rubber seals and other strong, stainless steel parts. All of these materials create a heavy-duty pool pump.

3. Best Choice Products Pro 2400GPH 13″ Sand Filter Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump

(Best With Sand Filter)

See the Price on Amazon

The Best Choice Products 13’’ sand filter pump is one of the best pool pumps from Best Choice Products, which is one of the popular pool accessories brands.

It is considered a low-cost maintenance choice because it comes with a sand filtration system while offering incredible water purification capabilities. You can imagine that the included sand filter is responsible for keeping your pool water crystal clear and clean.

Besides, the Best Choice Products pump is equipped with a 6-position multiport valve. This design helps you easily connect with your existing hose. Its large-volume sand tank also contributes to filter cycles, allowing the water to flow powerfully.

4. Intex GPH Krystal Clear Above Ground Sand Filter Pump

(Best Pump for Intex Above Ground Pool)

See the Price on Amazon

An excellent pool pump from Intex that is suitable for Intex above ground pool. This pool pump is not just a pump, but it is designed with 6 different functions, such as filtration, backwashing, recirculation, etc. Such a great feature!

It also comes with a large strainer basket. This feature not only helps capture more dirt, debris, but it is also easy to clean. From that, you can expect long-lasting sand. That means you don’t need to change the sand regularly.

Furthermore, the Intex GPH Krystal Clear pump is equipped with advanced hydro aeration technology. This is my favorite feature of this pool pump because it helps enhance the filtration and water clarity.

5. Intex GPH Saltwater System & Sand Filter Pump Set

(Best Saltwater Pump System)

See the Price on Amazon

The Intex GPH above ground pool pump is an excellent set, including a sand filter and saltwater system. These two combined features will eliminate the chemical smell, chlorine hassles, and keep your pool water crystal clear.

Besides, this pool pump offers 6 different operating ways, including filtering, backwashing, draining, etc. Therefore, you can choose any suitable functions for the best result of the cleaning process. The built-in hydro aeration technology is also a great advantage that helps improve water clarity.

Another amazing function of the Intex pump is its integrated digital timer. This feature can automatically turn on and off the pump, which is so convenient. Moreover, it helps in pre-filter, and you can set the time for this pump to run for around 12 hours.

6. Bestway GPH Above Ground Pool Filter Pump

(Best for Small Pools)

See the Price on Amazon

My first impression of the Bestway GPH filter pump is its compact design. It is lightweight and relatively small. Therefore, it is suitable for those with small pools rather than bigger ones.

If the two previous products from Intex offer a 6-way operating valve, this pool filter comes with only a 4-function valve. However, I think it is enough for small pools because you don’t need that many functions.

As its name implies, the most powerful function of the Bestway pump is filtration. It pulls and pushes the water and eliminates impurities to ensure water clarity.

7. Blue Wave TidalWave 2-Speed Replacement Pump for Above Ground Pools

(Quiestes Pump)

See the Price on Amazon

You may all know pool pumps always make a loud operating noise, more or less. Those who are easily irritated with that noise will find the Blue Wave TidalWave 2-speed pump an incredible replacement for your old, noisy pump.

Besides, it is constructed with durable polymer, which is considered to resist corrosion. So you don’t need to worry if it is left outside. Another great feature of this pool pump is its lint trap. This unique design contributes to the process of making the water crystal clear.

I also love the 2-speed design of the Blue Wave pump. It will help you save lots of money on electricity. You can choose a suitable speed, like low or high speed, for filtering or vacuuming, etc., which will reduce energy costs.

8. Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools

(Best Rated)

See the Price on Amazon

The Intex 28637EG Krystal Clear cartridge filter pump is the kind of dual insulated pump. It is also easy to install and operate, which is a suitable replacement for your old cartridge pump.

This model is equipped with advanced hydro aeration technology. The operation of this technology is easy. Basically, it mixes the air with your pool water, and then the oxidation of manganese and iron happens, making the water crystal clear.

Besides, the Intex pump includes a replaceable cartridge filter. Therefore, you can replace it more regularly. This action will improve efficiency and decrease maintenance costs.

9. Summer Waves 1000 GPH Filter Pump for Above Ground Swimming Pools

(Best Value for the Money)

See the Price on Amazon

The Summer Waves 1000 GPH pump is exceptionally sufficient because of the filter pump and skimmer combination. That means you just need to pay for one but get two. More importantly, it helps boost efficiency, which is worth purchasing.

The advanced skimming technology helps eliminate leaves, debris on the pool’s surface. Simultaneously, the filter clarifies the water, making it crystal clear.

Besides, the Summer Waves pump comes with a simple design. You don’t need too many complicated steps to install it. Just attach it to the pool’s sidewalls; therefore, it is also easy to maintain.

10. Intex 28637EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools

(Best Pump for 18′ Above Ground Pool)

See the Price on Amazon

The Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear pump is a dual insulated pump and is particularly designed for an 18′ size pool. You can also use this pool pump for 20’x12’ oval above ground pools.

Like the previous Intex model, this pump also comes with a filter cartridge. You can replace it once every two weeks for the best filtration and clear water. This design makes it easier to clean, hence extending the longevity of the pool.

Besides, the Intex pump is equipped with an auto timer. That means you don’t need to spend too much time cleaning the pool. You can set the preset cycles from 2 to 12 hours.

11. Intex Krystal Clear 530 GPH Easy Set Pool Filter Pump

(Best With Cartridge Filter)

See the Price on Amazon

The Intex Krystal Clear 530 GPH pump is equipped with an easy-to-install cartridge filter, like the two above Intex models. This incredible feature will improve water clarity and enhance filtration.

Besides, it comes with an air release valve. That means pump-priming is not an issue anymore. And to run the pump, you just need to connect the hose and then plug it in.

Not only making the water clearer, but the Intex filter pump also helps raise the negative ion on the pool’s surface. The innovative hydro aeration technology is also integrated into this pump for the best crystal clear water.

See Also: Top 15 Best Cartridge Pool Filters

12. Doheny’s Above Ground Pool Pump

(Best 1.5 Hp Above Ground Pool Pump)

See the Price on Amazon

The Doheny’s pump comes with a 1.5 Hp motor made from incredibly sturdy thermoplastic. This construction can ensure a prolonged lifespan and durability of the pool pump.

What’s more, its strainer basket is extremely large, helping catch more leaves and debris. From that, the filtration process is more efficient and easier than ever.

Besides, its basket is covered by a lid that functions as a pool cover pump. It also lets you know when you need to clean your pool because of its clear design.

13. Pentair PNCC0100OO1160 Pool Cartridge Filter w 1.5 Hp OptiFlo Pump

(Best Pump for 24′ Above Ground Pool)

See the Price on Amazon

If you have a large pool, you need to have a large capacity enough pool pump for the best filtration. And one of the greatest models for large above ground pools is the Pentair PNCC0100OO1160 OptiFlo pump.

This pump is made from top-first polyester material, ensuring a prolonged lifespan and durability. Besides, it comes in 100 square feet, which is suitable for large pools, and it also helps improve performance.

Furthermore, the Pentair pump comes with almost a full package, including the pump, filter hoses, base, clamps, pressure gauge, etc. That means you don’t need to pay extra on additional accessories.

14. XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed Above Ground Pool Pump

(Best Energy Efficient)

See the Price on Amazon

If you’re looking for an excellent energy-efficient pump, you shouldn’t miss the XtremepowerUS variable speed pump. Its integrated timer and 4 programmable speed options allow you to choose a suitable speed for the highest energy efficiency.

Another unique thing about this pool pump is its LCD screen. This feature lets you see different settings, consumption, etc. From that, you can easily control the flow rate to ensure energy savings.

Unfortunately, if you’re not an expert, you may need to have an expert installed the XtremepowerUS pump because it is extremely difficult to self-install. Otherwise, you may damage it before finishing installing it.

15. Harris H1572730 ProForce 1.5 HP Above Ground Pool Pump 115V

(Most Durable)

See the Price on Amazon

Firstly, the motor of this pump is made from top-class stainless steel. Moreover, its construction is made from ultra-strong thermoplastic. These two sturdy materials ensure the durability and extended lifespan for the pool pump.

Besides, the basket of this pump is incredibly large, capturing more debris and leaves. As a result, it improves filtration and circulation. What’s more, the large basket doesn’t take time to clean. Hence you can save many times on pump maintenance.

Another amazing feature of the Harris ProForce pump is its quiet operation. It seems to be designed to lower noise and bring the best performance while it doesn’t consume lots of energy.

16. Hayward W3S180T92S ProSeries 1 HP Sand Filter Pump System

(Highest Performance)

See the Price on Amazon

One of the most impressive and significant features of the Hayward W3S180T92S sand filter pump is its 7-position valve. It will help you quickly choose a suitable mode and control its flow rate for the highest performance.

The mounting base of this pump is made from durable thermoplastic. This material ensures strength and provides additional stability for the pump.

Besides, the Hayward pump comes with a relatively big tank, providing a large capacity for better filtration or drainage. Moreover, this design is great for winterizing.

Selecting the Best Above Ground Pool Pumps – Buying Guide

Before jumping into the installation guide, you should know what factors affect the pool pump, what you need to know to choose the best above ground pool pumps that can last many years to come.

All that information will be disclosed in this part. So, without any hesitation, let’s check what those criteria are.

Pump Size

The first question you need to ask yourself before going with any pool types is what pool size you need. Choosing the right pool size will help you save lots of money on electricity. What’s more, it will provide enough power to clean or filter your pool in as short a time as possible.

Imagine if you own a large above ground pool, but you purchase a 10-inch pool pump. That is not powerful enough to pump, to clear a large volume of water in your pool. Remember to measure your pool to choose the right size for the pump you’re going to buy.

Pump Performance

Besides the pump size, you can’t ignore the flow rate of a pool pump. It is the key factor in deciding how well your pump performs. This specification is usually measured in GPH (gallons per hour) or GPM (gallons per minute).

If your pump size needs to fit your pool size, then the flow rate also needs to be suitable for your pool capacity. Besides, the motor plays an important role in providing enough power to run for the best crystal clear water at a certain time.

If you have a small or medium-sized above ground pool, I’d recommend the pump with a 1.5 HP motor. However, those with larger pools should go with a 2.0 HP motor.

You can find these specifications on the box of almost all pumps. Unfortunately, some manufacturers don’t provide this information. In that case, you can scroll up to the above comparison table for more details.

Filtration Type

The two most common types of filtration systems are cartridge and sand filters. However, not all the pool pumps come with these filters, or at least one.

Sand filter systems are far cheaper than cartridge filtration systems. You don’t need to replace it regularly, usually around 5 years. However, many people change the sand once a year or every season to clean water.

On the other hand, cartridge filters are a bit higher-priced than sand filters. It also costs quite expensive to replace a new one. In return, it performs excellently in keeping the pool water crystal clear and clean.

Construction Material

Construction material is one of the critical factors deciding how long your above ground pool pump will last. Thermoplastic is considered a great material to protect the pump from harmful UV rays, pool heat, or other impacts.

Ease of Installation

Some above ground pool pumps are easy to install, while others require a few more steps and skills to set up properly. If possible, choose standard pool pumps that are simple to assemble. Otherwise, you may need to hire a professional, which costs pretty much more.

How to Install an Above Ground Pool Pump?

Installing your above ground pool pump is not as difficult as you think as long as you follow the instructions carefully. However, some manufacturers don’t include their user manual when you buy pumps from them, making it a little confusing.

Don’t worry because I’m here to help you. The first step is getting your pump placed near to your above ground pool. I’d recommend using a flat piece of concrete for additional width and stability. Then connect the hose to the intake and discharge ports.

Before plugging in the system, you should check if the hose seals fit properly and filter baskets are closed or not. Remember, don’t turn on the pump while you’re setting it up. When everything is done, turn on the switch and let the pump run for a while to ensure proper operation.

For more detailed instructions, you can watch the video below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some of the most common questions about the best above ground pool pumps will be answered in this part. I have spent lots of time searching for the information carefully. So, I hope it will help you find your answers, more or less.

What Size Pump Do I Need for My Above Ground Pool?

First, you need to know exactly what size your above ground pool is because the pump size hugely depends on the pool size.

For instance, if your pool’s volume is less than 10,000 gallons of water, then the 10 – 14-inch pump with a 1HP motor is enough. But if your pool is more than 10,000 gallons of water, I’d recommend the larger pump, like 16 inches, with 1.5 HP for the best efficiency.

How Much Does an Above Ground Pool Pump Cost?

There is no exact price for above ground pool pumps. It will depend on the quality of material, energy efficiency, functions that the pump has, etc. However, you can expect the average price of these pool pumps are between $300 and $800.

How Long Do Above Ground Pool Pumps Last?

It depends on various factors, including your pool size, your frequency of using the pump, or the filtration system’s type you use. Overall, it can last for around 8 – 10 years with regular use. It can even last longer if properly maintained.

Are Above Ground Pool Pumps Universal?

The answer is yes. As you all know above ground pool is widespread, and a pool pump is an essential part of keeping the pool water clear and healthy. It also saves your time on cleaning and maintaining the pool.

Should Above Ground Pool Pump Run All the Time?

No. You don’t need to run your above ground pool pump all day, and it’s not recommended to do so, too. If you let your pump run all the time, it will not only increase your electricity bill, but it may also damage your pump.

Swim Network Overview

Before closing my review, I’d like to give you the last recommendation to choose the best above ground pool pumps.

Don’t make everything complicated; consider your priority, which could be the power, budget, durability, or performance, etc. That way, you can easily make the right decision on which pump is suitable for your above ground pool.

For the best overall pool pump, my recommendation is the Hayward SP1592 PowerFlo Matrix 1 HP. If you want a pump with the best sand filter, go with the Best Choice Products Pro 2400GPH.

If you have a small pool, the Bestway GPH Above Ground Pool Filter Pump will be the best choice. In contrast, those with larger pools can consider the Pentair PNCC0100OO1160.

As always, give me a thumbs up or a share if you find this article helpful. It’s also a way to motivate me to write more reviews. Last but not least, thank you all for reading my review and visiting my blog. Happy swimming!