The Best Time to Run Your Pool Pump: Day vs. Night

As a San Diego pool owner, one of your biggest goals is to keep the water crystal clear. Being able to hop into pristine water for a swim increases your enjoyment, and it’s important to keep contaminants out of the water to preserve your health and safety. Pool pumps are one of your main lines of defense against algae and bacterial growth that causes murky water. Knowing when to run the pool pump is important, and you can use this guide to spark a conversation with your pool installer when you select the equipment.

Understand the Benefits of Running the Pump during the Day

Algae growth tends to increase during periods of intense sunlight. Being able to halt unwanted plant growth as it tries to start is one of the biggest reasons to run the pool pump during the day. Keeping the water moving also maintains a proper balance of chemicals in the water. Since sunlight can break down chlorine, maintaining circulation is critical for sanitizing the water.

Know Why Some People Prefer Using the Pump at Night

Some people prefer to avoid running a noisy pump during the day when they want to relax outside. However, you may have the option of using a newer, quieter pump model when noise is a factor that influences when you run the equipment. Pool owners may also choose to use the pump in the evening when they can benefit from lower energy rates during off-peak hours. Although pumping at night is better than not filtering the water at all, you’ll typically still need to run the pump for at least an hour or two during the day.

Explore Hybrid Schedules

Modern pool pumps come in a variety of styles that can allow you to create a customized schedule that works best for achieving all of your goals. Pumps that allow for programmable schedules make it possible to run your equipment for shorter intervals that clean the water more efficiently. You could set your pump to run during the times of the day when you aren’t planning to swim. Then you can also run it for periods during the night when you’re asleep. When you plan your pool’s design, let your installer know your preferences for running the pump. They’ll guide you to the model that works with your schedule for maximum efficiency.

Find Additional Ways to Increase the Pump’s Efficiency

No matter when you decide to run the pool pump, you have the ability to maximize its efficiency. Covering the pool when you aren’t using it can reduce the amount of contaminants that fall into the water. You can also perform essential cleaning tasks such as vacuuming to remove dirt and algae buildup. Emptying strainer baskets can also reduce clogs. Encouraging people not to drink and eat in the pool also helps the pump work less to keep the water clean. 

If you need advice on any aspect of pool maintenance, reach out to the experts at San Diego Pools, the pros with decades of experience. We’re the San Diego swimming pool contractor families have trusted for more than 40 years to turn their dreams into reality. Give us a call today to learn about our high-quality services.