Owning a pool is great…until the weather turns cold. A lot of people think they can just throw on a cover, walk away, and deal with it in the spring. That’s a recipe for disaster.
Pool covers do a great job of keeping out leaves, dirt, and whatever else the wind decides to drop in. It’s basically their one job. But they also collect water. A lot of it. Rain, snow, and condensation can all build up. And guess what loves stagnant water? Mosquitoes. And guess what hates all that extra weight? Your pool cover.
That’s why a pool cover pump isn’t just nice to have. It’s basically a necessity unless you want to spend your first warm weekend of the year wrestling with a nasty, algae-covered tarp. These little pumps suck up excess water before it can cause problems. Some turn on automatically, others need a push, but either way, they save you from a lot of frustration.
So, unless you want to spend spring chiseling frozen water off your cover or dealing with a mosquito convention in your backyard, a pool cover pump is the way to go. Let’s talk about how to pick the best pool cover pump.
How to Pick the Best Pool Cover Pump Without Losing Your Mind
You covered your pool for the season, walked away feeling like a responsible homeowner, and now you’ve got a sagging, puddle-filled mess sitting on top. Rain, melting snow, and debris have turned it into something resembling a neglected birdbath.
This is why you need a pool cover pump. Choose the best pool cover pump for your setup, or standing water will be a problem all season. Here’s what actually matters when picking one.
Match the Pump to Your Pool Size
Draining a large pool cover with an underpowered pump isn’t going to get the job done. A low-powered pump works fine for small pools, but larger ones need something with a higher gallons-per-hour (GPH) rating. The best pool cover pump clears water efficiently without wasting power or struggling to do the job.
Consider Your Pool Cover—Solid or Mesh?
How much water needs to be pumped depends on your cover type. Mesh covers let water trickle through, so pooling isn’t as bad, but they allow more debris that can clog weaker pumps. Solid covers block everything, meaning every drop of water sits there until removed. A stronger pump is the better option if you have a solid cover.
Decide Between Manual and Automatic Operation
An automatic pump requires no effort from you. A manual pump, by contrast, needs you to monitor water levels and control when it runs. Go with an automatic model if you want low maintenance, but a manual one might save you money if you don’t mind checking on your pool cover regularly.
Check the Cord Length and Noise Level
A pump with a short power cord is useless if your outlet isn’t close, so measure the distance before buying to avoid frustration. Some pumps hum quietly, while others sound like a jet engine. If noise matters to you, read reviews before making a decision.
Choose a Submersible Pump for Safety
Above-ground pumps can be a hassle and an electrical risk if they get wet, but submersible pumps are designed to sit in water and work safely. A submersible option makes maintenance easier and avoids potential hazards.
Pick the best pool cover pump now, and your pool cover won’t become a disaster by spring.
Top Picks for the Best Pool Cover Pump in 2025
A pool cover pump keeps your pool protected through the winter and prevents water from turning your cover into a sagging, debris-filled mess. If you choose the wrong one, maintenance becomes a hassle, and standing water leads to algae, mosquitoes, or even damage to your cover. The best pool cover pump matches your pool size, climate, and maintenance preferences, so choosing wisely makes all the difference.
The 150 GPH Pump: A Budget-Friendly Start
A simple and affordable solution, this compact pump works well for smaller pools or areas with light rainfall. First-time pool owners will find it easy to use, though it lacks the power needed for heavy storms or large pools. A reliable and low-cost option, this pump helps keep water from collecting on your cover without requiring a big investment.
The Old Man Winter 350 GPH Cover Pump: A Mid-Range Workhorse
For those who want a good mix of affordability and power, this mid-range pump handles moderate rainfall with ease and suits various pool sizes. A 25-foot power cord allows for flexible placement, and its UL listing and submersible design add safety and durability. Homeowners looking for a dependable and reasonably priced pump will find this model to be a strong option.
The Old Man Winter Automatic Shut-off 800 GPH Cover Pump: Automatic and Powerful
For those who prefer a pump that runs without supervision, this model turns on and off automatically when it detects water. A 7-inch stabilizing base keeps it steady, and the 25-foot power cord allows for easy placement. Handling heavy rainfall and larger pools efficiently, this pump reduces maintenance effort and offers convenience throughout the winter months.
The Flotec 3600 GPH Cover Pump: A Heavy-Duty Option
Designed for oversized pools and extreme weather conditions, this high-powered pump features a corrosion-resistant thermoplastic build and a 1/3 horsepower motor. Its durable design ensures long-lasting performance, and its energy efficiency makes it a worthwhile investment. Pool owners who experience frequent storms or require the strongest pump available will find this model to be the best pool cover pump for their needs.
The Right Pump Makes Winter Maintenance Easier
A well-chosen pool cover pump saves time and effort while preventing unnecessary damage. Whether you need a heavy-duty option for extreme rainfall, a mid-range model for reliability, or an affordable pump for light maintenance, selecting the right one guarantees your pool stays in great shape when it’s time to open it again.
How to Keep Your Pool Cover Pump Running Smoothly
If it’s not installed correctly or maintained well, even the best pool cover pump won’t last long. No one wants to deal with a pump that fails in the middle of winter, but setting it up properly and keeping it in good condition prevents unnecessary frustration. A few simple steps make all the difference.
Since most models come with clear instructions, installation takes little effort. Keeping the pump on a level surface ensures stability, and placing it near an outlet eliminates the hassle of dealing with an extension cord. Once positioned correctly, it begins working to clear water and protect your pool cover.
Just as important as installation, maintenance helps extend the life of the pump. Preventing dirt and debris from clogging the system, rinsing it with fresh water after each use keeps it running efficiently. Checking for signs of wear helps avoid unexpected breakdowns, and regular upkeep ensures long-lasting performance.
The manufacturer’s guide provides the best information for proper installation and care, so following those instructions prevents costly mistakes. Taking care of your pump means it will continue taking care of your pool cover, making pool maintenance easier when warm weather returns.
Your Backyard Oasis Awaits
At Pool Nation USA, we’ve got pools for every dream and every backyard. Whether it’s a compact setup for a small space or a sprawling pool for all the neighborhood kids (and kids at heart), our lineup includes the essentials and extras you need to make it happen. Imagine stepping out your back door to a sparkling pool, your perfect escape just steps away, waiting for those warm afternoons and sunny weekends.
So why wait another season? Make your outdoor space as cool as it deserves to be. Dive into the good times and create the backyard oasis you've always wanted. Shop our full line of pools today!
