Why You Need a Pool Cover Pump
When you close your pool for the season, water inevitably accumulates on top of the cover — from rain, melting snow, and morning dew. This standing water creates serious problems:
- Cover damage: Excess weight stretches and tears pool covers prematurely
- Safety hazard: Standing water on a pool cover is a drowning risk, especially for children and pets
- Debris accumulation: Water traps leaves and dirt, making spring cleanup much harder
- Cover contamination: Stagnant water breeds algae and bacteria that can contaminate your pool
A pool cover pump automatically removes this water, protecting your cover investment and keeping your pool clean all winter long.
How Does a Pool Cover Pump Work?
A pool cover pump is a small submersible electric pump that sits directly on top of your pool cover. When water accumulates, the pump turns on — either manually or automatically via a built-in float switch — and pumps the water away through an attached discharge hose.
Most pool cover pumps discharge water via a 3/4" garden hose connection, directing water away from the pool area to a drain or lawn.
Manual vs Automatic Pool Cover Pumps
| Feature | Manual Pump | Automatic Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | You plug in when needed | Float switch activates automatically |
| Convenience | Requires monitoring | Hands-free, 24/7 protection |
| Risk of over-pumping | Higher (must watch) | Lower (float switch stops pump) |
| Price | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Best For | Occasional use, budget-conscious | Most homeowners, peace of mind |
Recommendation: Choose an automatic pump with a float switch for worry-free operation. You won't have to remember to turn it on and off, and it protects your cover 24/7.
How to Choose the Right Pool Cover Pump
Step 1: Check the Flow Rate (GPH)
Flow rate determines how quickly the pump removes water. For most residential pools:
- Under 1,000 GPH: Suitable for small pools or light rainfall areas
- 1,000–2,000 GPH: Good for average pools in most climates
- 2,000+ GPH: Best for large pools or heavy rainfall/snowmelt areas
Step 2: Consider the Discharge Height
The pump needs to push water through a hose to a drain or lawn. Check the pump's maximum head (vertical lift) to ensure it can handle your discharge distance and elevation.
Step 3: Choose Automatic vs Manual
As discussed above, automatic pumps with float switches offer the best convenience and protection for most homeowners.
Step 4: Check the Power Cord Length
Make sure the power cord reaches your outdoor outlet. Most pool cover pumps come with 25FT cords — enough for most installations. Always use a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet.
How to Use a Pool Cover Pump: Step-by-Step
- Place the pump on the lowest point of your pool cover where water collects.
- Attach the discharge hose — connect a garden hose or provided hose to the pump outlet.
- Route the hose away from the pool to a lawn, garden, or drain. Make sure it drains downhill.
- Plug in the pump to a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet.
- For automatic pumps: the float switch will activate the pump when water reaches a set level and shut it off when water is removed.
- For manual pumps: monitor water levels and unplug when the cover is clear.
Important: Never allow the pump to run dry for extended periods — this can damage the motor.
How Much Water Should You Leave on the Cover?
Don't remove ALL the water from your pool cover. Leave about 1–2 inches of water on the cover — this small amount of water weight actually helps anchor the cover and prevent wind from lifting it. Automatic pumps with float switches handle this perfectly.
FOTING Pool Cover Pumps: Our Lineup
JUNHE PUMPS offers two FOTING pool cover pump models designed for reliable seasonal performance:
- FOTING 1/3HP Pool Cover Pump 2240GPH — Submersible, automatic float switch, 3/4" check valve adapter, 25FT power cord. Available in Blue & Black. Ideal for pools up to 30,000 gallons. Handles rain and snowmelt efficiently.
- FOTING 1/4HP Pool Cover Pump 1850GPH — Compact and lightweight, automatic operation, 25FT cord, 3/4" discharge. Perfect for smaller pools or budget-conscious pool owners.
Both models feature automatic float switches for hands-free operation and are built to withstand outdoor conditions season after season.
Maintenance & Storage Tips
- Rinse the pump with clean water at the end of each season before storing
- Store indoors in a dry location during off-season months
- Inspect the float switch annually to ensure it moves freely
- Check the discharge hose for cracks or damage before each use
- Never store the pump in freezing temperatures — water inside can expand and crack the housing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular sump pump as a pool cover pump?
Technically yes, but a dedicated pool cover pump is much lighter, easier to place on a cover, and designed for this specific application. Sump pumps are heavier and can damage soft pool covers.
How often should I run my pool cover pump?
With an automatic pump, it runs as needed. For manual pumps, check after every rain event and remove water before it exceeds 2–3 inches deep on the cover.
What size hose do I need?
Most pool cover pumps use a standard 3/4" garden hose connection. A standard garden hose works perfectly for most installations.
Conclusion
A pool cover pump is one of the most important — and most overlooked — pool accessories you can own. It protects your cover, keeps your pool cleaner, and eliminates a serious safety hazard, all for a small investment.
Our FOTING pool cover pumps offer automatic operation, reliable performance, and the flow rates you need to keep your cover clear all season. Browse our selection and find the right model for your pool — or contact our team if you need help choosing.