Optimal Filter Run Time
Calculate perfect pump schedules for clear water
Quick Run Time Guide
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)
- • 10-12 hours minimum
- • Split morning/evening
- • Increase for heavy use
- • Run during swim time
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
- • 4-6 hours sufficient
- • Run during warmest part
- • Prevent freeze damage
- • Adjust for temperature
Quick Answer
Pool filters should run long enough to turn over all water at least once daily. For most pools, this means 8-10 hours in summer and 4-6 hours in winter. Calculate turnover: Pool Volume ÷ Flow Rate = Hours needed. In Texas summer heat (90°F+), run 10-12 hours. Split run times to save energy - run early morning and evening. Variable speed pumps can run longer at lower speeds for better filtration and energy savings. Increase run time after heavy use, rain, or if water clarity decreases.
Understanding Pool Turnover
What is Turnover?
Turnover is when your entire pool volume passes through the filter once. Proper turnover ensures all water gets filtered and sanitized daily.
Turnover Formula:
Pool Volume (gal) ÷ Flow Rate (GPH) = Hours
Example Calculation
Pool: 20,000 gallons
Pump: 50 GPM = 3,000 GPH
Calculation: 20,000 ÷ 3,000 = 6.7 hours
Result: Run pump 7-8 hours minimum
Important Note:
One turnover is the minimum. During summer or heavy use, 1.5-2 turnovers (running 10-12 hours) provides better water quality.
Determining Your Run Time
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Calculate Pool Volume
Length × Width × Average Depth × 7.5 = Gallons
Determine Flow Rate
Check pump label or calculate from filter pressure and returns.
⚠️ Warning: Variable speed pumps have different rates at each speed
Check Current Clarity
Assess if water stays clear with current run time.
Monitor Temperature
Water over 80°F needs longer run times for sanitation.
⚠️ Warning: Every 10°F increase requires 25% more runtime
Evaluate Bather Load
More swimmers require additional filtration time.
Consider Season
Summer needs 10-12 hours, winter may need only 4-6.
⚠️ Warning: Texas summers require maximum filtration
Seasonal Run Time Schedule
| Season | Temperature | Run Hours | Best Times |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | 85-100°F | 10-12 hrs | 6am-10am, 6pm-10pm |
| Spring | 70-85°F | 8-10 hrs | 8am-12pm, 4pm-8pm |
| Fall | 60-75°F | 6-8 hrs | 10am-2pm, 4pm-6pm |
| Winter | 40-60°F | 4-6 hrs | 11am-3pm (warmest) |
Southlake, Westlake, Grapevine Note: Our hot summers and mild winters mean adjusting schedules more frequently than cooler climates.
Variable Speed Pump Settings
Optimizing Variable Speed Pumps
Energy-Saving Schedule:
- Low Speed (1200-1800 RPM):
- • 16-20 hours for filtration
- • Overnight operation
- • 75% energy savings
- Medium Speed (2400 RPM):
- • 2-3 hours for features
- • During swim time
- • Adequate flow
- High Speed (3450 RPM):
- • 30 min for cleaning
- • Vacuuming only
- • Minimize use
Programming Tips:
- • Run low speed continuously for best filtration
- • Schedule features during swim times
- • Use high speed only when necessary
- • Adjust speeds seasonally
- • Monitor electric usage monthly
Savings: Variable speed pumps can reduce energy costs by 50-80%
When to Increase Run Time
Heavy Use
- • Pool parties
- • Multiple daily swimmers
- • Pets swimming
- • Add 2-4 hours
After Rain
- • Diluted chemicals
- • Debris introduction
- • Contamination risk
- • Run 24 hours
Algae Prevention
- • High temperatures
- • Phosphate presence
- • Low sanitizer
- • Run continuously
Energy Cost Comparison
Monthly Operating Costs
| Pump Type | HP | Daily Hours | kWh/Month | Cost @ $0.12/kWh |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Speed | 1.5 | 10 | 450 | $54 |
| Two Speed (Low) | 1.5 | 16 | 360 | $43 |
| Variable Speed | 1.5 | 20 | 180 | $22 |
Annual Savings: Variable speed pumps can save $300-500 per year in energy costs
Timer & Automation Costs
Pump Timer Installation
🔧 DIY Attempt
⚠️ Risks:
- • Electrical safety hazards
- • Incorrect wiring
- • Timer programming errors
- • No optimization advice
- • Warranty voiding
👷 Professional Service
✅ Includes:
- • Timer selection and installation
- • Electrical safety compliance
- • Optimal schedule programming
- • Seasonal adjustment training
- • Energy usage evaluation
- • Smart timer options
💰 Value Tip: CoOpPools offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Our worker-owned model means fair prices and invested service.
Optimize Your Schedule
Prevention Tips
Use Timer Controls
Automate pump schedules for consistent filtration
Split Run Times
Run during coolest hours to reduce evaporation
Adjust Seasonally
Reduce winter hours, increase summer hours
Monitor Water Quality
Increase time if clarity decreases
Upgrade to Variable Speed
Run longer at lower speeds for energy savings
🏊 Pro Tip: Regular professional maintenance prevents 90% of pool problems.Get your maintenance quote today
Need Professional Help?
Want to optimize your pool's filtration while saving energy? Our experts can evaluate your system, install timers or variable speed pumps, and create the perfect schedule for your pool. We'll calculate exact run times, program automation, and show you how to save hundreds on electricity. Call for a filtration efficiency consultation!
Mention "filter run time optimization" when calling for faster service
Related Pool Problems
Related Pool Problems
Cloudy Water
Often RelatedInsufficient run time causes cloudiness
Green Pool Water
Often RelatedPoor circulation enables algae
High Electric Bills
Sometimes RelatedExcessive run times waste energy
💡 Did You Know? Pool problems often occur together.Filter Run Time can lead to or be caused by these related issues. Understanding the connections helps prevent future problems.