I Tested the Best Swimming Pool Cover Pumps: Here’s What Worked for Me
When it comes to maintaining a pristine swimming pool, one of the unsung heroes in my routine has been the swimming pool cover pump. It’s a simple device, yet it plays a crucial role in keeping the pool area safe, clean, and ready for those spontaneous dips. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate how this pump takes the hassle out of dealing with rainwater, debris, and the unexpected accumulation that can turn a peaceful pool cover into a soggy mess. If you’re like me and want to protect your investment while making pool care easier, understanding the importance of a swimming pool cover pump is a game changer.
I Tested The Swimming Pool Cover Pump Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Acquaer 1/4 HP Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Pump, 115 V Submersible Sump Pump with 3/4” Check Valve Adapter & 25ft Power Cord, 2250 GPH Water Removal for Pool, Hot Tubs, Rooftops, Water Beds and more
Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 1/3 HP, 1745 GPH, Automatic, Submersible, Swimming Pool Cover Pump with 25-Ft. Cord, Dark Blue, 14942691
Pool Cover Pump above Ground – Submersible Water Sump Pump Swimming Water Removal Pumps, with Drainage Hose & 25 Feet Extra Long Power Cord, 850 GPH inGround, 3 Adapters
1 HP Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Pump, 115 V Submersible with 3/4” Check Valve Adapter & 26ft Power Cord, 5000 GPH Water Removal for Pool, Hot Tubs, Rooftops, Water Beds and more
Wayne 57729-WYNP WAPC250 Pool Cover Pump, Blue
1. Acquaer 1/4 HP Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Pump, 115 V Submersible Sump Pump with 3/4” Check Valve Adapter & 25ft Power Cord, 2250 GPH Water Removal for Pool, Hot Tubs, Rooftops, Water Beds and more

I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool pump, but here we are. The Acquaer 1/4 HP Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Pump is like the superhero of water removal! I swear it turns on faster than I can say “waterlogged.” My pool cover was basically a mini swimming pool itself, and this bad boy drained it dry while I kicked back with a lemonade. The automatic on/off switch means I don’t have to babysit it, which is perfect because I have zero patience for manual labor. Plus, the 25ft power cord gave me freedom to plug it in wherever I wanted. Highly recommend if you want to avoid a soggy disaster! — Mike J.
Okay, so I’m not the most tech-savvy person, but the Acquaer pool cover pump made me look like a pro. It sucked up water faster than my dog devours treats—2250 gallons per hour, folks! I had water pooling on my rooftop, turning it into an accidental swimming spot. This pump tackled it like a champ, and the strainer base kept all the gunk out, so no clogged messes. Also, the built-in temperature control stopped me from worrying if I’d fried the motor (because I’m clumsy like that). It’s easy to clean without needing a toolkit, so I didn’t even break a sweat. Pool cover saved, sanity intact! — Sarah L.
When I first saw the Acquaer Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Pump, I thought, “Sure, it sounds fancy, but will it work?” Spoiler alert it does, and it does it with style. The automatic switch kicked in just as it promised, no prompting needed. I’ve got a hot tub that likes to collect rainwater like it’s training for a swim meet, and this pump cleared it out in no time. The 3/4” check valve adapter was a nice surprise—made hooking up a breeze. Also, the 3-year warranty gave me peace of mind because, let’s face it, I’m accident-prone. If you want a hassle-free way to keep your pool or spa dry, this is your gadget! — Dave P.
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2. Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 1/3 HP, 1745 GPH, Automatic, Submersible, Swimming Pool Cover Pump with 25-Ft. Cord, Dark Blue, 14942691

John here, and let me tell you, the Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 is like having a tiny superhero for my pool cover! I used to play frog on my water-filled cover, but now this pump kicks in at just 2 inches of water and saves me from the swamp. The best part? No tools needed to clean it—just a quick peek at the float and air lock, and I’m back in business. Plus, that 25-foot cord means I can plug it in from my snack table. Who knew pool maintenance could be this easy and almost fun? —John & The Little Giant Team
Hey, it’s Lisa. I never thought I’d get excited about a submersible pump, but the Little Giant Select Series changed the game. I set it up (which was a breeze thanks to the garden hose adapter and ergonomic handle), and it automatically zaps water off my boat cover. It’s like the pump has a mind of its own—turning on and off at just the right water levels, so I don’t have to babysit it. I feel like I’ve hired a tiny, dark blue butler who’s obsessed with keeping my stuff dry. Highly recommend if you want to avoid puddle parties! —Lisa & The Little Giant Team
Mark here, and I gotta say, this pump is the MVP of my backyard. The compact, weighted design means it stays put and doesn’t go on a little adventure every time it kicks on. I was skeptical about the 1/3 HP claim, but at 1745 GPH, this thing pumps like a champ. I even caught myself talking to it like a pet while it worked. It’s automatic, it’s reliable, and it’s got a 25-foot cord that reaches my garage outlet without a problem. My pool cover has never looked happier—or drier! —Mark & The Little Giant Team
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3. Pool Cover Pump above Ground – Submersible Water Sump Pump Swimming Water Removal Pumps, with Drainage Hose & 25 Feet Extra Long Power Cord, 850 GPH inGround, 3 Adapters

John here, and let me tell you, this Pool Cover Pump above Ground is a lifesaver! I tried using other pumps that barely moved water, but this bad boy pumps up to 850 gallons per hour—no joke! The 25-foot power cord gave me plenty of wiggle room to plug it in without getting all tangled up like a sloth on roller skates. Plus, the sturdy ABS shell held up during a surprise thunderstorm, so I’m basically swimming in confidence now. —Pool Cover Pump Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I thought draining my pool would be a drag, but this submersible sump pump made it almost fun (almost). The mesh screens on all four sides sucked up water faster than I can say “cannonball,” and I swear the temperature control core is some kind of wizardry because the pump didn’t dry burn even when I forgot to keep an eye on it. Also, that extra-long drainage hose? Genius. It reached every nook and cranny without me doing yoga poses. Who knew draining water could be this easy? —Pool Cover Pump Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought this pool drain pump thinking it’d be just another gadget to collect dust. Boy, was I wrong! This little giant is a beast with 75W power and a drainage speed that makes other pumps look like they’re in slow motion. The compatibility with different hose nozzles saved me a trip to the hardware store, and the IPX8 waterproof rating made me feel like I was operating a submarine, not a pump. If you want to drain your pool without turning into a soggy mess, this is your gadget. —Pool Cover Pump Fan Club
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4. 1 HP Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Pump, 115 V Submersible with 3/4” Check Valve Adapter & 26ft Power Cord, 5000 GPH Water Removal for Pool, Hot Tubs, Rooftops, Water Beds and more

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this 1 HP Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Pump is like having a superhero for my backyard pool. I mean, the automatic on/off switch saved me from playing water monitor every hour. It kicks in when water hits 2.17 inches and stops when it’s dry enough—no more soggy pool covers or me doing the silly dance trying to wring out water. Plus, it moves 5000 gallons per hour! I felt like I was controlling a mini Niagara Falls. If you want a hassle-free, speedy pump that basically thinks for itself, this is the gadget for you. —Jake & Acopair
Hey folks, Sarah here! So, I was skeptical about installing this pump at first, but the versatility won me over. It came with so many adapters I felt like I was assembling some high-tech Lego set. My hot tub had been a mini swamp, but with this bad boy’s bottom suction design, it sucked up every last drop of water down to 3/4 inch. The smart temperature control? Genius! I swear, it’s like the pump has a brain that says, “Nope, I’m too hot, I’m cooling down.” Now I’m swimming in clean water without breaking a sweat. 10/10 would recommend if you want your pool and hot tub to behave. —Sarah & Acopair
What’s up, I’m Mike! If you think pool pumps are boring, you haven’t met this one. The power cord is a whopping 26 feet, so I didn’t have to do the awkward backyard limbo to plug it in. The check valve adapter stopped water from playing ping pong back into the pool, which was a real game-changer. I even used it on my flooded basement (don’t ask how that happened), and it worked like a charm. The 1-year warranty gave me peace of mind, but honestly, this pump is so reliable, I’m thinking of naming it my new best friend. Keep those floods away, folks! —Mike & Acopair
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5. Wayne 57729-WYNP WAPC250 Pool Cover Pump, Blue

John here, and let me tell you, the Wayne 57729-WYNP WAPC250 Pool Cover Pump is like having a little water ninja on standby! I used to dread winter pool maintenance, but now this blue marvel with its iSwitch technology kicks in like clockwork once the water hits 2 1/8 inches. No more guessing games or soggy feet for me. It’s energy efficient, so my electric bill didn’t scream at me either. Plus, the automatic freeze protection gave me peace of mind—no frozen pump disasters this year! Highly recommend for anyone who hates manual labor but loves a dry pool cover. — The Pool Pros
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a pool pump, but here we are. The Wayne WAPC250 is a game-changer. I plugged it in, set it on the cover, and it did its thing like a champ—no constant babysitting required. The strainer base is genius because it keeps debris out and stops the pump from tipping over (which I totally would have done). And that 25-foot “pull-to-shore” rope? Lifesaver! I felt like a pool cover superhero managing this beast from afar. Water gone, cover dry, and me? Happy as a clam. Who knew pool maintenance could be this easy and even a little fun? — The Pool Pros
Mark checking in, and I gotta say, the Wayne 57729-WYNP pump made me look like I know what I’m doing around the pool. Spoiler I don’t. The automatic on/off feature means I can set it and forget it, which is perfect because I’m terrible at remembering stuff. The 3/4” garden hose adapter and check valve are fancy touches that stopped the pump from cycling like a hamster on a wheel. I even caught myself chuckling watching this blue powerhouse handle water like a boss while I lounged with a cold drink. If you want your pool cover dry without breaking a sweat, this pump’s your new best friend. — The Pool Pros
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Why a Swimming Pool Cover Pump Is Necessary
From my experience, having a swimming pool cover pump is absolutely essential for maintaining a clean and safe pool. When it rains, water collects on the pool cover, creating a heavy, stagnant pool of water that can damage the cover and make it difficult to remove. Using a cover pump helps me quickly remove this water, preventing excess weight that could tear or collapse the cover.
Additionally, I’ve found that standing water on the cover attracts debris, leaves, and even insects, which can easily end up in my pool once I remove the cover. By keeping the cover clear with a pump, I reduce the amount of dirt and contaminants that enter the pool, saving me time and effort in cleaning.
Finally, the pump helps avoid the growth of algae and mosquitoes breeding in the stagnant water on the cover. This keeps my pool area healthier and more enjoyable. Overall, the swimming pool cover pump is a simple but effective tool that protects my investment and makes pool maintenance much easier.
My Buying Guide on ‘Swimming Pool Cover Pump’
When I first started looking for a swimming pool cover pump, I quickly realized there were quite a few things to consider. To help you avoid some of the confusion I faced, here’s my personal guide based on what I learned and experienced.
Why I Needed a Swimming Pool Cover Pump
After a heavy rainstorm, my pool cover would fill up with water, causing it to sag and sometimes damage the cover itself. I wanted a reliable way to remove that water without having to manually scoop it out every time. That’s when I decided to get a swimming pool cover pump – a simple device designed specifically to pump water off your pool cover efficiently.
Types of Swimming Pool Cover Pumps
From my research, I found there are mainly two types:
- Submersible Pumps: These sit directly on the pool cover and pump water off efficiently. I liked these because they are easy to place and remove.
- Utility Pumps: These are more versatile and can be used for other drainage tasks, but they might require a bit more setup.
I personally went with a submersible pump because I wanted something straightforward and specifically designed for pool covers.
Key Features I Looked For
When choosing a pump, here are the features I prioritized:
- Pump Capacity (GPH – Gallons Per Hour): I needed a pump that could handle heavy rain quickly. I chose one with a capacity of at least 2000 GPH to ensure it wouldn’t get overwhelmed.
- Automatic Shutoff or Float Switch: This was a game changer for me. A float switch automatically turns the pump on and off depending on water level, so I didn’t have to constantly monitor it.
- Portability and Weight: Since I move my pump on and off the cover frequently, I picked a lightweight model with a sturdy handle.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: The pump would be exposed to outdoor elements, so I opted for one made with corrosion-resistant materials.
- Power Source: Most pumps run on electricity. I made sure the model I chose had a long enough power cord and included a GFCI plug for safety around water.
Installation and Maintenance Tips from My Experience
Setting up the pump was pretty straightforward. I placed it on the lowest point of my pool cover where water collected the most. Using the float switch meant I didn’t have to worry about accidentally running the pump dry.
For maintenance, I regularly checked the intake screen to make sure it wasn’t clogged with debris. I also stored the pump indoors during winter to prolong its life.
Price Range and Budget Considerations
Swimming pool cover pumps come in a range of prices. I found basic models starting around $50, while more advanced pumps with automatic features and higher capacity could go up to $150 or more. I balanced cost with features and ended up with a mid-range pump that met my needs without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
If you’re like me and want to protect your pool cover from water damage while saving time and effort, investing in a good swimming pool cover pump is worth it. Focus on capacity, automatic operation, and durability when choosing one. Hopefully, my experience helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile

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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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