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Pool Pump Size Calculator

Use our pool pump size calculator to find the flow rate your pool needs. Calculate pool volume, GPM, and turnover time with ease.

Pool Dimensions
For a uniform-depth pool, enter the same value as Shallow-End Depth.
Turnover and Pump Details
Hours. 8 hours is a commonly cited residential-pool example, not a universal requirement -- check your local code/guidance.
GPM, from a specific pump's datasheet, to see its actual turnover time.
Feet, if already determined separately (static head + friction + fitting + equipment losses). Not calculated here.
Pool Pump Sizing - Formula Reference
StepFormula
Rectangular volume (ft)Volume (gal) = L x W x avgDepth x 7.48052
Rectangular volume (m)Volume (gal) = L x W x avgDepth x 264.172052
Circular volumeVolume (gal) = PI x r^2 x avgDepth x (7.48052 ft | 264.172052 m), r = Diameter / 2
Average depthavgDepth = (Shallow-End + Deep-End) / 2
Required flowGPM = Volume (US gal) / (Turnover Hours x 60)
Actual turnover timeHours = Volume (US gal) / (Actual GPM x 60)
Note: GPM/GPH/L-min/m3-h are the required DESIGN flow rate only -- a real pump must be verified against its own performance curve at your system's actual TDH. Horsepower and pump model are not calculated here.
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A pool pump keeps water moving through your filter. The right size helps your pool stay clean and clear. A pump that's too small may not move enough water. One that's too large may waste power.

Our pool pump size calculator helps you find the flow rate your pool needs. Enter your pool size and target turnover time. Then, get your required flow in gallons per minute (GPM). You can also view other flow units.

What Is a Pool Pump Size Calculator?

A pool pump size calculator finds the flow rate needed to move your pool water within a set time. It uses pool volume and target turnover time.

Think of your pool like a big tank. The pump moves water through a filter, much like a fan moves air through a room.

The result gives you a starting point for pump selection. You must also check pipe size, filter limits, and total dynamic head (TDH).

Pool Pump Size Formula

Use this simple formula to find the flow rate your pool needs.

Required GPM = Pool Volume in US Gallons ÷ (Turnover Time in Hours × 60)

GPM means gallons per minute. Turnover time is the time needed to move one pool volume through the system.

For a rectangular pool, use this formula:

Pool Volume = Length × Width × Average Depth × 7.48052

Use feet for all three measures. The result is in US gallons.

For a round pool, use:

Pool Volume = 3.14159 × Radius × Radius × Average Depth × 7.48052

Radius is half the pool's diameter.

If you use meters, first find the pool volume in cubic meters. Then multiply it by 264.172 to get US gallons.

How to Use Our Online Pool Pump Size Calculator

Follow these five simple steps to find your required flow rate.

  1. Choose a method. Enter your pool size or type in its total volume.

  2. Enter pool details. Add the length, width, diameter, and depth as needed.

  3. Set turnover time. Enter your target time in hours.

  4. Choose an output unit. View the result in GPM, GPH, L/min, or m³/h.

  5. Check your results. Review the flow rate and use it to help select a suitable pump.

The calculator does the math for you. You don't need to work through each formula by hand.

Example Pool Pump Size Calculation

Suppose you have a pool with 20,000 US gallons of water. You want to turn over the water in eight hours.

First, multiply eight hours by 60 minutes.

8 × 60 = 480 minutes

Next, divide the pool volume by 480.

20,000 ÷ 480 = 41.67 GPM

Your pool needs a target flow of about 41.67 GPM.

This equals 2,500 GPH, or about 157.73 liters per minute. Think of this as your target, not a promise of real pump output.

The pump must deliver this flow at your system's actual TDH. Check the pump curve and filter limits before you buy.

Pool Pump Size Chart

Use this quick chart as a guide. It shows the flow needed for an eight-hour turnover.

Pool volume (US gallons)Required flow (GPM)

5,000

10.42

10,000

20.83

15,000

31.25

20,000

41.67

25,000

52.08

30,000

62.50

These are target flow rates, not fixed pump sizes. Your plumbing and filter can change the flow your pump can deliver.

Pool Pump Size Chart in Litres

For pools measured in litres, use this formula:

Required L/min = Pool Volume in Litres ÷ (Turnover Hours × 60)

For example, a 75,000-litre pool with an eight-hour turnover needs:

75,000 ÷ (8 × 60) = 156.25 L/min

This is a useful starting point for pools outside the USA.

Above Ground Pool Pump Size Calculator

An above-ground pool uses the same basic flow formula as an in-ground pool. Enter the pool volume and target turnover time to find the required flow.

Also check the filter rating, hose size, and pump curve. These help you choose a pump that fits your pool system.

Final Verdict

Our pool pump size calculator helps you find the flow rate your pool needs. It works with pool dimensions or a known volume. It also converts results into common flow units.

Use the result as your starting point. Check TDH, pipe limits, and filter ratings before you choose a pump. The right match can help your pool run well without wasting power.

FAQs

How do I determine the size pool pump I need?

Find your pool volume first. Divide it by your target turnover time in minutes. Then check the pump curve to find a model that can deliver that flow at your system's TDH.

What size pump do I need for a 20,000-gallon pool?

For an eight-hour turnover, you need about 41.67 GPM. The final pump choice depends on your plumbing and filter.

Does a larger pool need a larger pump?

Usually, yes. A larger pool often needs more flow to meet the same turnover time. But pipe size and system resistance also matter.

Can I use this calculator for an above-ground pool?

Yes. Enter the pool volume or its dimensions. The same flow formula works for both above-ground and in-ground pools.

How do I convert GPM to litres per minute?

Multiply GPM by 3.78541. For example, 10 GPM equals about 37.85 L/min.

Does this calculator tell me the pump horsepower?

No. Flow rate alone can't give an accurate horsepower rating. You also need TDH and the pump's performance curve.