How Long to Run Pump?

[traceyb]

all right guys........the new 30' pool at 52" is up and running. It looks great. I am finally a forum guest WITH a pool. I was wondering if I should be running the pump and filter 24/7 initially or is 12-14 hrs a day ok? The chemicals are slowly being adjusted and the only thing so far (in 3 days post fill) is that the chlorine level needs to be drastically higher. so with that I wasn't sure when I should start the shorter running time. Thanks all!

[CJDahl]

I just opened up my newly installed IG pool. I was wondering how long I need to run this early in the season? I have chemically balanced water and my pump sized to do a turnover every 5.5 hours. Water & air temperature is only around 60 degrees. Also sounds like many are filtering two cycles per day instead of one. What is the optimal? Thanks in advance for any guidance.

[tenax]

i like 2 turnover cycles of 5 to 6 hours each depending on pool, pump and filter size. that works for me and gives me a cycle in the evening where i can tweak chemicals as necessary and still give them a full turnover cycle. (i.e. the bleach i've been putting in for past 2 days..a couple of jugs in the morning at start of the cycle, then when i get home tonight at 5, i'll put some more in and have the next cycle start.) once you get in season, you may want to adjust your cycles due to having a pump heater running for example (if you need that in your area)

[Jeffski]

I have noticed a huge difference in water cleanliness and clarity by running the pump 24/7 compared to 10-12 hours a day last year. Therefore I would highly recommend 24/7 for the first 2 weeks after opening until your pool is clean and balanced and then try backing off some.

[TJNav]

I usually run my pump on a timer 13 to 15 hours a day in 2 blocks. Generally 10am-8pm then 2am-6am. I like the pump on when we're swimming to take advantage of the water being stirred up. Also, I test and add chlorine when I get home in the evening (while the pump is on) to get the most benefit before the sun eats it up.

Tom


40,000 gal
IG Vinyl

[CJDahl]

Assuming I turn over my pool in twice in 12 hours should I divide pump operation evenly over 24 hours (e.g. on one hour/off one hour) , or am I better off running during the day in 2 x 6 hour hours during the day and 12 hours off at night ? Is there any advantage to running during the day versus at night (assuming at this point no one is in the pool). (I can turn on/off infinite number of times with home automation).
thanks !!

[Trimom]

I run my pump 24/7 - but our electic rate is about $.05 kwh - so I honestly don't notice much of a difference in the bill. Now our winter heating electric bill is another story...

I just really like how the water stays nice and sparkly with the constant filtration.

[NWMNMom]

Mine runs during the day to push water through the solar panels. If I run at night, it cools off the pool. I prefer to add heat and keep what I have so don't run after dark. It does run for 2 hrs in the evening for chemical additions but otherwise the timer is set to get max sun heat.