Looking for the best pool cover pumps? We review the top 9 available on the market below! Buying a pool can be one of your greatest and most fun home investments – providing long-lasting relaxation to you, and your family.
But when you invest in a pool, it is financially smart to invest in the right equipment, to ensure your pool works efficiently. If you’re looking at this article, then you’ve already done the smart move of buying a pool cover.
A pool cover is vital, because it reduces evaporation, reduces heat loss, and prevents debris from entering your pool.
However, your pool cover cannot drain the excess water. So, although you’ve implemented protective measures to keep rain, or snow, away from your pool with a winter pool cover – it’s now floating above your pool!
We all know that pool maintenance can be a pain – but it doesn’t have to be. All you have to do is invest in the right equipment.
So, to protect the longevity of your pool cover, and keep your loved ones safe – purchase a pool cover pump.
But where do you even start? Well, we’ve done the hard work for you! Below, you’ll find our list of the best pool cover pumps.
We’ve also included a super useful buyer’s guide that’s packed with information on what to look for when you start shopping for a pool cover pump, and we go into a little more detail as to why owning a pool cover pump is so important.
9. EDOU Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Pump
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EDOU Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Pump is our top contender for automatic pool cover pumps.
EDOU has over twenty years of experience in being a lead provider of pool parts and accessories and was founded by industry professionals.
This EDOU pump can pump up to 1200 GBR, making it one of the most efficient pumps on the market.
This is vital if you have a large pool, as it holds a larger capacity, while the 16’ drainage hose ensures that it can stretch the length of your pool.
The EDOU is highly efficient. The pump automatically activates in 2.0-inch of water, and deactivates in 1.0-inch of water, ensuring that there is never water build-up and that your pool cover remains protected.
This is especially good for those with children and pets, as it prevents water from building up to dangerous levels.
EDOU is customized in ABS casing, providing durability in bad weather. It also has a built-in temperature control, preventing dry burning when in short of water.
It is an excellent value for the quality. The product is also backed with a lifetime guarantee, so you have long-lasting protection.
Pros:
- Large capacity and faster pumping: EDOU Automatic can pump a massive 1200 GBR, providing excellent and reliable drainage.
- Great value for money.
- High-quality materials lend themselves to strong durability.
- Backed with a lifetime guarantee.
Cons:
- Although the material is durable, it’s likely to tip over due to its bulkiness.
8. Sanimove ⅓ HP Automatic ON/Off Water Removal Pool Cover Pump
The Sanimove 1/3 HP Automatic is one of the best pool cover pumps on the market. The Sanimove has a huge capacity, meaning much quicker pumping. The max flow rate is a massive 2200 GPH.
This product is vital if you have a large pool, providing very quick service. It’s also great if you have children, or pets, as it’ll ensure the water is removed in a timely manner, making your outdoor area safer.
The pump turns on automatically when the water level is higher than 1.5-inch, and automatically switches off when the water is lower than 1.10-inch.
It’s better than the EDOU-1200 GBP in terms of activation, as the Sanimove activates when it senses a smaller measure of water, giving you that extra peace of mind. However, the deactivation rate is pretty much the same.
Pros:
- Huge capacity, faster pumping: the Sanimove pool cover pump can pump up to 2200 GPH, removing large volumes of water at a fast rate.
- Automatically activates when it senses 1.5-inch of water.
- Material: Polypropylene, strong and durable.
Cons:
- The product retails on the expensive side.
7. Little Giant 5-APCP Automatic Pool Cover Pump
Little Giant is a reliable pump brand. Specializing in pool, plumbing, hydroponics pumps for professional use, for over 80 years, it’s a trusted option.
This pump is the real deal, and given the reliability of the brand, it usually retails on the expensive side. It has a max flow of 1200 GBR, making it effective at water removal.
However, cheaper options like EDOU Automatic are still great value for money and perform almost as well as the Little Giant model.
One definite downside to this product is that it activates when the water level is at 3 ¼-inch.
Although the product still removes water build-up, this Little Giant model allows for more water to pile up before it’s activated, compared to EDOU and Sanimove.
Now, given that it’s still a small amount of water – it shouldn’t affect the condition of your pool cover.
However, if safety is your main concern, it’s probably better to invest in the EDOU and Sanimove, as their models activate in a lower amount of water, making it less hazardous for possible drowning.
One benefit to the Little Giant pool cover pump is that it comes with a stabilizing plate, meaning that it’s less likely to fall down.
Pros:
- Reliable pool, plumbing, hydroponics pump brand for over 80 years.
- Stabilization plate – meaning your product is more secure against weather conditions.
- Thai pool cover pump comes with a two-year warranty.
Cons:
- Pool cover pump activates in water above 3 ¼-inch, meaning it allows for water to pile up more than EDOU or Sanimove.
- Bulkier product compared to EDOU and Sanimove.
6. EDOU 1200 GPH Remote Control On-Off Pool Cover Pump
Again, EDOU have made our best-for-value list. It’s not surprising – as we already stated, EDOU have over twenty years of experience in being a lead provider of pool parts and accessories and was founded by industry professionals.
The EDOU 1200 GPH Remote Control Pool Cover Pump takes a new twist on manual pumps. Although it’s not automatic, it comes with a remote control on-off switch, making it convenient and easy to use your pump.
As long as you’re within 45 feet of the pump, you can use the remote to turn your pump on and off. It also contains a manual switch, which is great if you lose the remote, or prefer traditional models.
This model has the best flow rate for any manual pump. It can pump 1200 GPH, making it an effective choice. Even with its powerful motor, the pump has an extra quiet design – preventing any annoying loud noise.
The product is structurally designed to prevent toppling, which means it’s less likely to fall over – saving you time and energy. As usual, EDOU offers a lifetime guarantee on their products, giving you that extra bit of security.
Pros:
- The unique remote control makes the pump easy to use.
- Great capacity at 1200 GBR.
- Structurally designed to prevent toppling – saves time picking up a fallen pump.
Cons:
- Remote control requires batteries.
5. Lnicez Pool Cover Pump Above Ground – Submersible Sump Pump
Next, we have the Lnicez Pool Cover Pump. The Lnicez is suitable for above-ground and in-ground pools. The Lnicez has a smart design, making it convenient for storage.
The Lnicez is also cased in ABS for prolonged durability. The pump also has a flow rate of 850 GPH, a great capacity for a manual pump.
It has a 16 ft anti-twist drainage hose, preventing the inconvenience of detangling the hose. It’s also a multipurpose product – so if you encounter a lot of rain or floods, the Lnicez can be used to drain flooded cellar areas.
Pros:
- Good capacity at 850 GPH, effective at water removal.
- 16 ft anti-twist hose prevents having to detangle the product.
- Multipurpose product – ideal if you live in a rainy climate.
Cons:
- Small size, not ideal for larger pools.
4. Blue Torrent Pool Cover Pump
The Blue Torrent Pool Cover Pump is a fantastic buy for small-scale pools. It has a lightweight design, which makes carrying the pump easier.
It also has an oil-free design for environmental protection, great for those who are trying to reduce their imprint.
The oil-free design also makes cleaning the pump a lot easier. It’s not recommended for a large pool, given that the max flow rate is 350 GPH.
Of course, this is no problem for small-scale pools, but this is not effective if you’re trying to remove water from a larger surface.
Blue Torrent can pump water within 1/8-inch deep, which is great for preventing water build-up and keeping your pool area safe. It also comes with a one year warranty, guaranteeing you some protection.
Pros:
- Lightweight design for ease of access.
- Oil-free design for environmental protection, and easy cleaning.
- One-year warranty, a decent level of protection.
Cons:
- Max capacity of 350 GBR – not ideal for large pools.
3. EDOU 850 GPH Swimming Pool Cover Pump Above Ground
Again, EDOU have made our list! The EDOU 850 can pump up to 850 GBR, which is a decent capacity for a manual pool cover pump.
Like the Lnicez, it’s also suitable for both in-ground and above-ground pools, which is great for those looking for a dual-purpose pump.
Just like EDOU Automatic Pool Cover Pump, the quality of the pump is excellent. The pump is cased in ABS, ensuring the durability of the product.
While it is manually shut on and off, it also has a built-in temperature control core, which prevents dry burning in short of water. This is a great feature, as it prevents the likelihood of fires.
Like all EDOU products, this product is backed with a lifetime guarantee.
Pros:
- Excellent value for money.
- Reliable product, with the company having over 20 years of pool
- equipment manufacturing.
- Great capacity, maximum pump flow of 850 GBR
Cons:
- Product is better suited for smaller-sized pools.
2. AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump
Lastly, the AgiiMan pool cover pump is a great choice for above-ground pools. It has a great flow rate of 850 GPH, making it effective at removing water.
The AgiiMan is designed to be durable. It adopts an ABS shell, which prevents damage from bad weather conditions.
It also has a built-in temperature control, to prevent dry burning. This is great, as it prevents possible fires.
It also contains a 16 ft anti-twist drainage hose, preventing annoying tangles.
Pros:
- Great capacity of 850 GPH, effective water remover.
- ABS shell – protected from harsh weather conditions.
- 16 ft anti-twist drainage hose, no need to spend time detangling.
Cons:
- Only suitable for above-ground pools.
1. Wayne 57729-WYNP WAPC250 Pool Cover Pump
The Wayne 57729-WYNP WAPC250 Pool Cover Pump is another great option. The max flow rate is 3000 GPH, making it one of the most efficient pool cover pumps. It will ensure that water is removed in a timely manner, and it’s great for larger pools.
The Wayne automatically activates when the water is at 2 1/8-inch, and automatically turns off when the water is at, or below 3/4-inch. Its auto-off sensor is excellent, as it removes the most volume of water.
Its auto-on sensor is activated in a larger volume of water than Little Giant, but a smaller volume than EDOU and Sanimove.
There are obvious pros and cons to this. Removing the highest volume of water, The Wayne is efficient in ensuring your pool cover is protected.
It also is a very good option if you have children and pets, as it means there’ll be less residue water, so less risk of potential drowning.
Another pro about this automatic pool cover pump is that it has automatic freeze protection, due to its iSwitch technology. This prevents the pump damage to ensure the longevity of your product.
The Wayne is ideal for colder climates, where snow and ice could be a potential problem.
Pros:
- Huge capacity, faster pumping: max flow rate of 3000 GBR.
- Automatically switches off when the water is below 3/4- inch, protecting your pool cover and loved ones.
- Automatic freeze protection due to iSwitch technology – great for colder climates.
Cons:
- Bulkier and heavier design.
Our Pool Cover Pump Buyers Guide
Now that we’ve recommended some of our favorite pool cover pumps, lets dig into the things you should know before buying the one right for you!
Why You Need A Pool Cover Pump
Although it feels ridiculous to fork out extra cash on a seemingly mundane extra, pool cover pumps are actually essentials and vital to the longevity of your equipment. Even if you bought the best pool cover, without a pump, it’ll end up being your best short-lived pool cover.
When rainwater piles up on your pool cover, it damages the product over time through stretching or tearing the material. A pool cover pump prevents damage by getting rid of the rainwater.
There are also serious safety concerns to think about. If you don’t drain the rainwater, the water will become displaced, causing puddles on the surface. This presents itself as a drowning hazard if your children or pets fall on top of the cover.Not only is the pool a potential drowning risk, but the cover itself is a hazard if it isn’t effectively maintained.
If you’ve bought a safety pool cover, then you’ve already considered the risk of potential drowning. But without a pool pump, your pool cover still poses a major risk to your loved ones.
Let’s also consider the hard task of cleaning your pool cover, without a pool cover pump. If you’re calling up a company, you’re going to have to pay an extortionate amount in fees. It works out cheaper to cut out the middleman and make a one-off investment for a pool cover pump.
Maybe you figure you’d save money by doing neither, and dispose of the water yourself. It’s possible to do, but it’s not efficient. Pool covers become pretty heavy when covered in water, so it’s not practical for anyone who has any mobility impairments. Also, do you really want all of that water to swim around in your garden? Pool covers often carry a lot of debris – whether that’s dead insects or leaves.
This means you’re going to have to blow away the junk from your garden. Sure – it’s possible, but it’s pretty much a time-waster when a pool cover pump could do it all for you.
You might think that all pool pump covers are the same – after all, they all remove the water, filter out the debris and make your backyard safer. But there are some important differences between models, relevant to your individual needs. Let’s explore these in more detail below.
Automatic Or Manual?
There are two primary types of pool cover pumps: automatic pumps, and manual pumps.
Automatic
Automatic pool cover pumps contain sensors. When the sensors detect water on the pool cover, the pump automatically turns on, disposes of the water, and then turns itself off.
Features:
- Recommended for large and in-ground pools.
- Higher capacity and quicker pumping: automatics can pump 250 to
- 2500 gallons of water per hour (GPH).
- The easiest pump to use, as it requires no effort from your end.
- It’s great for people who have mobility impairments, who can’t use a
- manual pump.
Manual
Manual pool cover pumps need to be turned on and off by hand, whenever you notice the water piling up. Some manual pumps are electric, and only require being turned on and off. Other manual pumps are battery operated.
Features:
- Recommended for small and above-ground pools.
- Smaller capacity and slower pumping: manuals pump around 800 GPH.
- Lightweight and smaller, making storage easier.
Whether you choose an automatic pool cover pump or a manual – be sure to check the filtering system on occasion to remove any debris and build-up.
This ensures the longevity of your product and keeps it working efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Check out some of the All About Pools’ team answers on FAQs we commonly get related to swimming pool cover pumps below!
Which Is The Better Model, Automatic Or Manual?
It’s difficult to say which is better because it depends on your individual needs. Automatics are easier to use, given that they require less maintenance.
Unless you constantly check your pool cover, automatics do all the work for you – meaning you never have to worry about cleaning your pool cover.
With that said, if it doesn’t overly rain or snow – and you’re just looking for a good level of protection, manuals are a great option. EDOU’s Remote Control model shows that manuals can be just as modern, and easy to use as automatics.
When it comes to safety, automatics have the edge, as there is never an excess of water building up – keeping you and your family safe.
Can You Use Pool Cover Pumps on Solar Swimming Pool Covers?
Yes, the best pool covers pumps are great for both winter pool covers and solar pool covers for inground pools if used correctly. Be sure to take proper care of your pool cover pump by cleaning it out every once in a while and store it when not in use!
Nick White
Hello, I am a writer and marketing specialist in Kansas City, MO. My love for swimming pools started as a child when I would visit my aunt & uncle’s inground swimming pool on a frequent basis over the summer. Since then I have taught swimming lessons at a Boy Scout Camp, participated in the full setup, installation and maintenance of my father’s inground swimming pool, as well as enjoyed constantly researching everything there is to know about swimming pools for 5+ years. I enjoy all water related sports, being part of the online swimming pool community and always learning new things!
