Understanding Pool Run Times is a vital part of having a swim safe pool this season.
As we head out of the cooler weather and into warmth, it’s vital to adjust your pool run time appropriate to the season. To discuss pool run time we must first understand the concept of “Pool Turnover.”
Pool Turnover
Pool Turnover is the time it takes to move 100% of your pools water volume through the filtration equipment. It’s based on your pool’s volume of water, the current capabilities of your pool pump and the plumbing sizing and configuration going to and coming from your pump.
The design of new pools since 2011 have a minimum turnover of 6 hours.
The issue is older pools did not have this design requirement, and piping sizes on older pools tend to be smaller and constrict the amount of water coming to the pump. *
In colder months with water below 72 degrees, it okay typically to run your system with one turnover per day. So, roughly six hours run time minimum during cold months.
As water temperature increases into the 80’s and 90’s it’s vital to increase your pool’s turnover to 2 plus times per day. So that means 10-12 hours of pool run time per day for most pools during the swim season.
Pool Troopers Turnover
We accomplish the turnover of 2 plus by increasing the pool run time. This gives your filter the theoretical chance to scrub every drop of water in your pool two times a day. This is the minimum goal with warm water filtration for safe swimming.
If you have a variable speed pump, it will save you a lot of money on electricity; therefore, you can run the pool on low-speed filtration for 20 hours a day; As a result, it will use far less electricity than a regular pool pump motor running 10 hours a day; whereas, moving the same amount of water. This is a great option for pool owners in high kilowatt cost areas or anyone who wants to do their part and help conserve energy.
*Some pools can be re-plumbed at the equipment pad, in order to alleviate this issue; although, not all. Consult a pool professional if you would like to find out if an equipment pad re-plumb would be good for your pool’s hydraulic efficiency.
Check all our blogs for the series “Getting the Pool ready.”.
Since 1952, Pool Troopers has been the full-service pool maintenance company for residential pool owners. Pool Troopers provide chemical, cleaning, and repair pool services. We want to keep the public informed about industry trends, tips and tricks and best practices for pool maintenance. Find us near you with services throughout Brandon, Bradenton, Cape Coral, Lake O Lakes, Oviedo, Carrollton, Sugar Land, Scottsdale, Fort Lauderdale, North Ft. Lauderdale, Venice, and Spring Hill. Call on us, America’s Backyard Heroes, to create a cool and carefree pool space for you, your family, and guests; you can depend on our safe, reliable, professional pool technicians to do the job right. Call to learn more today!
