Is It Safe to Run Your Pool Pump when You’re Swimming?

Owning a pool often involves learning far more than you might expect about water maintenance. While you might want to arrange for professional San Diego pool services that include monitoring the chemical levels, you’ll still need to run the pump on a regular basis to keep the water clear. Most people need to run the pump for at least 10 to 12 hours each day, and you can never go wrong with filtering the water for longer. Whether you run the pump while you sleep or swim is up to you, and you can use this guide to make the best decision for your pool’s water quality.

Stay Ahead of the Game

If you prefer to enjoy a quiet, serene swim in the morning, it might be preferable to turn off the pump. Some pool pumps generate a noticeable hum that you might find distracting when you’re swimming solo. However, running the pump during swimming sessions can also eliminate the buildup of sunscreen, sweat, and other contaminants. This is especially true during pool parties and other events when a lot of people might be in the water.

Use Safe Pool Filtration Systems

Safety is always at the forefront of a swimmer’s mind, and you’ve likely taken serious steps to keep everyone safe near your home’s pool. Anytime you have electrical components in use near water, you’ll need to take further precautions to guard against shocks. You can make sure the system is safe to use while people are in the water by working with your pool builder to choose a quality filtration model that meets safety standards. Making sure the filtration system is properly installed and grounded allows you to enjoy peace of mind as you swim with it on at the same time.

Run the Pump for Proper Water Feature Functioning

Certain water features work best when the pump is running. During your pool installation, ask your builder about how to care for waterfalls, fountains, and bubblers. Making sure the water flowing through these features is clean can prevent premature wear and tear. A steady water flow also reduces strain on the features so they work all season long.

Consider Using a Variable Speed Pump

If you’re concerned about energy usage, opting for a variable speed pump during your pool installation can give you more control over its use. With a variable speed pump, you can run the system at a lower speed to continue cleaning the water without using as much energy. People who prefer a quiet pool pump also find they hardly notice the system working when it’s on the lower speed levels.

Pick a Hybrid Schedule for the Best of Both Worlds

Running your pool pump during off-peak energy hours can save you money, but this could also mean it has to work harder to remove contaminants that build up all day. Many pool owners find it efficient to run the system for a few hours while people swim and then finish out the allotted time overnight by using a programmable pump.

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.