As the temperature outside begins to rise, many homeowners are looking for ways to cool off in their own backyard.
One of the best methods is installing a solar pool pump on your swimming pool. This allows you to use natural resources like sunlight and wind power to reduce your dependence on electricity.
But before purchasing or installing a solar pool pump, there are some important questions that need answering first!
When Is The Best Time To Run A Solar Pool Pump?
In general, you will want to run your solar pool pump during the day between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun is highest in the sky. This will allow your pump to reap the benefits of as much sunlight as possible. But what about other aspects of running your pool with solar, I’ve written about that in this article.
However, if you want more control over how often your solar pool pump runs, then there are some options available for you:
- One is to install an automatic timer that will activate the pump at specific times during the day.
- Another option is purchasing a solar pool cover with intermittent bubbles that allow for circulation of water without needing to run your pump continuously.
How Many Hours Should I Run A Pool Pump?
Most experts recommend running a pump for at least 12 hours per day, and up to 16 hours if possible! This will ensure that water circulation remains consistent all throughout the day.
Additionally, if you are using a solar pool cover, it should be kept on the water in order to keep heat from escaping. This is especially true during daytime hours when the sun is shining its hottest!
You may also want to check with your local utility company about what time of year they recommend running pumps.
For example:
- During the winter, it is best to run a solar pool pump for at least 16 hours per day.
- If you live in an area that has high summer temperatures, then running your pump during the morning and evening will be ideal. Otherwise, try to use timers or automatic pumps to reduce heat exposure as much as possible!
What Are The Benefits Of A Solar Pool Pump?
Solar pool pumps allow you to save money on electricity bills, which can be expensive in areas with high rates and/or hot climates and since they don’t use electricity, they are less prone to overheating or breaking down.
- Solar Pool Pumps use natural resources like sunlight and wind power to reduce your dependence on electricity.
- Running a Solar Pool Pump during the daytime will ensure that water circulation remains consistent all throughout the day.
Can I Run My Solar Pool Pump If It’s Raining?
Pumps should not be run in the rain, as this will result in clogged filters and lower water flow rates.
If your pump becomes clogged, then unclog it carefully by taking off the top and removing any debris that is in the impeller. Run your pump again to ensure that water flow rates are restored before continuing on!
What Else Should I Consider When Installing My Solar Pool Pump?
Devices like pool pumps and pool filters largely work passively…you just set them up and let them go. You only need to check on the period or when you notice that they aren’t working as well as they should.
Here are some common things to look for in order to get the most out of your solar pool pump:
- Ensure that your Solar Pool Pump is placed in a shaded area of the water. This will help maximize its power efficiency and effectiveness!
- You should also ensure you have a backup solution for cloudy days, such as an automatic timer or battery backup if possible. These can be helpful during emergencies.
- If you are installing a solar pool cover with intermittent bubbles, then make sure that the timer is set to run for at least 12 hours per day!
How Do I Get My Solar Pool Pump Started?
Generally, most people find it easiest to install a manual start kit on their solar pool pumps. This will allow them to manually activate their solar pool pump.
Many pump timers have a manual or push button feature which can be used as well! This will allow you to manually activate your Solar Pool Pump and ensure that circulation is working properly.
If you have a battery backup, then ensure that your solar pool pump is connected and running all throughout the day! This will provide an emergency power source in case of cloudy days or if something goes wrong with your automatic timer.
What Should I Do If My Solar Pool Pump Is Malfunctioning?
If your solar pool pump is malfunctioning, then it may be clogged. This will result in a lower water flow rate and could even cause you to lose all circulation. Unclog any debris that is on the impeller of the pump, make sure there are no cracks or holes in the filter system.
If you are using a manual start kit, then check to make sure it is functioning properly. Check for any loose or broken wires or hoses and see if your owner’s manual has any troubleshooting tips.
If your solar pool pump continues to malfunction after these steps have been taken, contact customer service for help!
What Can I Do If My Solar Pool Pump Is Not Pumping Enough?
If you’re like me then things never go from “working perfectly” to “broken.” There is always that in-between time when devices start to slowly degrade…and sometimes it’s such a gradual process that you may not notice for a while.
If your solar pool pump is starting to run less than optimally here are a few things that may be the cause:
- The filter may be clogged or damaged. Ensure that it’s not cracked, plugged up by debris, and has a loose gasket on the bottom of its cover to ensure water flow.
- It could also just need some new solar cells. Make sure your pump is set in a shaded area for maximum power efficiency – this will extend the life of your solar cells and ensure maximum water flow.
- Lastly, the pump could just be worn out…if this is the case then it may need to be replaced!
How Often Should I Clean My Solar Pool Pump?
You should do basic preventative maintenance to your solar pool pump every two to four weeks. Thoroughly clean your pump once a year, or increase this to six months if you have a lot of debris in the pool.
Most pool owners can get away with a yearly cleaning of their pool pump, but give it a good look over about once a month so you can be on top of any issues that may pop up.
Can I Convert My Pool Pump To Solar?
You can convert your pool pump to solar if you have a 240-volt outlet nearby. If this is the case, then there are several models of pumps that allow for conversion and installation as well.
Many people choose not to go with converting their pool pump because it costs more upfront and has less power efficient than an original solar panel setup.
Are Solar Pool Pumps As Good As Standard Pool Pumps?
Solar pool pumps are a great way to minimize your energy costs and save the environment! They’re often more reliable because they do not rely on power sources.
That being said, many people find that solar pool pumps are not as powerful or efficient as their standard counterparts. This means they may need to be manually converted from time to time.