Keeping pool covers clear of standing water extends cover life and reduces weight on the cover. This guide highlights five reliable submersible pool cover pumps that automate water removal, work with standard hoses, and fit a range of pool sizes and cover styles. Each section covers key features to help you compare performance, setup, and maintenance.
style=”display:none;”>Summary Table of Selected Products
| Product | Brand | Motor | GPH | Cord Length | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 | Little Giant | 1/3 HP | 1745 | 25 ft | |
| Acquaer 1/4 HP Automatic Pool Cover Pump | Acquaer | 1/4 HP | 2250 | 25 ft | |
| FOTING 1/3 HP Automatic Pool Cover Pump | FOTING | 1/3 HP | 2250 | 25 ft | |
| Acopair 1 HP Automatic Pool Cover Pump | Acopair | 1 HP | 5000 | 26 ft | |
| Vidapool 1/2 HP Pool Cover Pump | Vidapool | 1/2 HP | 2169 | 25 ft |
Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 Pump
The Little Giant LG-APCP1700 is a 1/3 HP submersible pool cover pump designed for automatic water removal from pool covers, boat covers, or rooftops. It activates when water reaches about 2 inches and shuts off around 1 inch, helping prevent over-pumping and dry-running. Construction emphasizes portability with an integrated handle and a compact, weighted base for stability during operation. The design enables quick cleaning access to the float and air lock without tools, simplifying maintenance and reducing downtime.
Acquaer 1/4 HP Automatic Pool Cover Pump
The Acquaer 1/4 HP model delivers a high flow of up to 2250 GPH with an automatic on/off switch. It turns on when water is detected at about 2 inches and continues running for an additional 60 seconds after the level drops to roughly 2/5 inch. It features a bottom suction design to reach water down to 3/4 inch and includes a strainer base for debris protection and stable placement. Built-in temperature control helps prevent dry burning when water is scarce.
FOTING 1/3 HP Automatic Pool Cover Pump
The FOTING model features an automatic switch that engages at 1 inch of water and runs for about 30 seconds after reaching 1/5 inch remaining. It offers a robust 1/3 HP motor moving up to 2250 GPH, with a bottom suction design that leaves less than 1/5 inch of water. A 1-1/4 inch NPT vent and 3/4 inch garden hose adapter, plus a filter base, provide practical compatibility and debris protection. The pump can operate in various settings, including pools, rooftops, and basements.
Acopair 1 HP Automatic Pool Cover Pump
The Acopair pump uses a powerful 1 HP motor capable of moving up to 5000 GPH, making it suitable for larger covers or heavy water buildup. It includes a 26-foot power cord and a 3/4 inch check valve adapter, with multiple adapters for flexible connection options. Automatic on/off sensing activates at about 2.17 inches and deactivates after a 30-second run once water drops below 3/4 inch, reducing unnecessary operation. The product emphasizes durability and broad compatibility with hoses and fittings.
Vidapool 1/2 HP Pool Cover Pump
The Vidapool model uses a 1/2 HP motor to move up to 2250 GPH, with an automatic sensor that starts at 2.1 inches and stops when the water reaches 0.4 inches. It features a bottom suction design for effective removal down to 1/4 inch and includes a 1-inch NPT discharge compatible with standard hoses. A built-in check valve minimizes backflow, and a 25-foot power cord adds reach for larger setups. It aims to be reliable for above-ground and in-ground pool covers, ponds, and basements.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a pool cover pump:
- Water removal rate (GPH): Higher GPH handles larger covers or heavy rainfall, but requires more power and may be louder.
- Automatic on/off: Look for a reliable sensor that activates at a low water level and stops after the water is drained to a safe threshold to prevent dry running.
- Bottom suction vs. top suction: Bottom suction helps extract residual water down to fractions of an inch, important for covers with pooled water near edges.
- Discharge fittings: Ensure compatibility with common hoses (1/2″, 3/4″, 1″ NPT adapters) and check valve options to prevent backflow.
- Cord length and electrical safety: Longer cords offer flexibility but require safe handling and weatherproofing; look for IP ratings and temperature protection features.
- Durability and materials: ABS housings and corrosion resistance extend life in outdoor environments; easy-to-clean strainers simplify maintenance.
- Portability and storage: Lightweight handles and compact designs ease placement and removal from pool covers.
When evaluating options, balance required GPH, how often you anticipate running the pump, and the environment (above-ground vs. in-ground, rooftops, or basements). Automatic models reduce supervision, while manual modes offer control in constrained spaces. Compare adapters and hoses included to minimize extra purchases. Consider the warranty and replacement part availability if long-term reliability matters.