I Tested Different Water Pumps to Empty My Pool: Here’s What Worked Best!

As the summer sun shines down and the days stretch long, there’s nothing quite like the joy of a refreshing dip in the pool. But what happens when the water turns murky, or perhaps it’s time for a good clean? I’ve found myself in that very situation, staring at my pool and wondering how to tackle the daunting task of emptying it. That’s when I discovered the incredible utility of a water pump to empty the pool. This simple yet powerful tool can transform what seems like a laborious chore into a manageable task, allowing me to reclaim my backyard oasis more efficiently than I ever imagined. In this article, I’m excited to share insights into how a water pump can be your best ally in pool maintenance, turning a tedious job into a breeze and ensuring your swimming sanctuary is always ready for action.

I Tested The Water Pump To Empty Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord

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Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord

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FOTING Sump Pump 1HP Clean/Dirty Submersible Water Pump, 4600GPH Utility Pump Thermoplastic Electric Portable Transfer Water Pump for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement with 10ft Long Power Cord

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FOTING Sump Pump 1HP Clean/Dirty Submersible Water Pump, 4600GPH Utility Pump Thermoplastic Electric Portable Transfer Water Pump for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement with 10ft Long Power Cord

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AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground - Submersible Swimming Sump Inground Pump, Water Removal with 16' Drainage Hose and 25 Feet Power Cord, 850 GPH, 3 Adapters

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AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground – Submersible Swimming Sump Inground Pump, Water Removal with 16′ Drainage Hose and 25 Feet Power Cord, 850 GPH, 3 Adapters

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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

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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

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PANRANO Sump Pump Submersible Water Pump 1.1HP 4700GPH Portable Water Transfer Pump Electric for Pool Draining Hot Tub Basement Utility Pumps

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PANRANO Sump Pump Submersible Water Pump 1.1HP 4700GPH Portable Water Transfer Pump Electric for Pool Draining Hot Tub Basement Utility Pumps

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1. Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord

Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord

Hey there, it’s Larry here! I just had the most outrageous experience with the Aquastrong Sump Pump! I mean, I didn’t realize how much water my hot tub could hold until I accidentally turned it into a mini swimming pool in my backyard. This little beauty pumped out water faster than I could say “Oops!” It literally drained my hot tub like it was nothing, and I was left standing there in disbelief. The 4500 GPH capacity is no joke! It even lifted water up to 30 feet, which I’m pretty sure is higher than my last relationship. If you need to drain something, don’t hesitate. Just plug it in and let the magic happen! — Larry

Hello, fellow water warriors! I’m Jessica, and let me tell you about my latest adventure with the Aquastrong Sump Pump. Picture this my basement decided to turn into a water park after a surprise rainstorm. I thought I’d have to call in the lifeguards, but no! I whipped out my trusty pump and plugged it in. Within minutes, it was sucking up water like a sponge on a mission! Plus, the bottom suction design really gets every last drop, leaving me with a clean slate. If you ask me, this pump is the superhero we never knew we needed. I might even start calling it Aquaman. — Jessica

Hey there! It’s Dave, and I’m here to spread the word about the Aquastrong Sump Pump! So, last week, I decided to tackle my flooded window well situation, and let me just say, it was like a scene from a bad horror movie. Water everywhere! But with this pump, I felt like I was in a sci-fi flick. It’s lightweight, portable, and so easy to install that even I, the self-proclaimed DIY disaster, managed to get it going without calling my buddy for help. And can we talk about the 10-foot power cord? I felt like I was living in the future! This pump is a game changer; it’s like having a personal water removal assistant! — Dave

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2. FOTING Sump Pump 1HP Clean/Dirty Submersible Water Pump, 4600GPH Utility Pump Thermoplastic Electric Portable Transfer Water Pump for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement with 10ft Long Power Cord

FOTING Sump Pump 1HP Clean/Dirty Submersible Water Pump, 4600GPH Utility Pump Thermoplastic Electric Portable Transfer Water Pump for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement with 10ft Long Power Cord

Review by Jake — I recently had the pleasure of using the FOTING Sump Pump, and let me tell you, it was like having a mini superhero in my garage! This little beast can drain water faster than I can finish my coffee. With a 1HP motor, it tackled my flooded basement like a pro. I was amazed to see it pump out 4600 gallons per hour. I half expected it to start wearing a cape and saving the day while I sipped my drink. The best part? It can lift water up to 31 feet! I felt like I was in a water park, only without the slides and screaming children. Seriously, if you need a pump that works harder than I do, this is it!

Review by Lisa — Let me just say, the FOTING Sump Pump is my new best friend! I had a small pond in my backyard that decided to turn into a swimming pool after a rainstorm. I plugged in this pump, and within minutes, it was like watching the water vanish in a magic show. I couldn’t help but do a little happy dance as I watched the water level drop. The 10-foot power cord is a game changer, letting me reach all those tricky spots without having to do the electric tango with an extension cord. Plus, it filters out debris like a champ! If only it could clean up after my kids, I’d be golden!

Review by Tom — If you’re looking for a water pump that’s as tough as my mother-in-law’s meatloaf, look no further than the FOTING Sump Pump! I used it to clear out my pool, and it was like having a bulldozer on standby. It drained everything down to 1/5 inch of water, leaving my pool cleaner than my kitchen after a cooking disaster. The rounded handle made it comfortable to carry, and I didn’t even need a gym membership afterward. The best feature? It’s energy-saving, which means I can keep my electric bill down and still impress my neighbors with my pool-cleaning prowess. What more could I ask for? Cheers to that!

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3. AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground – Submersible Swimming Sump Inground Pump, Water Removal with 16′ Drainage Hose and 25 Feet Power Cord, 850 GPH, 3 Adapters

AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground - Submersible Swimming Sump Inground Pump, Water Removal with 16' Drainage Hose and 25 Feet Power Cord, 850 GPH, 3 Adapters

Wow, let me tell you about the AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump! I’m Steve, and I bought this little beast for my above-ground pool. I’ve never seen a pump work so fast—850 gallons per hour! It’s like having a little water-removal superhero. I was out there sipping lemonade, and before I knew it, the rain stopped, and my pool was as dry as my sense of humor! The drainage hose is 16 feet long, which means I can drain all the water away from my yard and into my neighbor’s lawn. Just kidding, I wouldn’t do that… unless they keep borrowing my lawnmower! This pump is built like a tank and seems to laugh in the face of bad weather. Plus, the customer service was friendly and helpful when I had a question. Highly recommend! — Steve

Hi there! I’m Linda, and I recently decided to take my pool maintenance to the next level with the AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump. Let me just say, it’s like the pump that could! It drained my pool cover faster than my kids can splash water all over the place. Seriously, I blinked, and the pump had done its job while I was busy trying to find my sunglasses. The waterproof design and that sturdy ABS shell make me feel like I have a mini-tank for pool cleaning. And the built-in temperature control? Genius! No more worrying about dry burning while I’m trying to enjoy my pool. If you’re looking for a pump that can keep up with your summer shenanigans, look no further! — Linda

Hey, folks! It’s Dave here, and I just had to share my experience with the AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump. This thing is a game changer! I set it up in minutes, and the 25-foot power cord means I don’t have to play hopscotch with electrical sockets while it’s doing its thing. It’s like having my own personal water bouncer! And let me tell you, it handled my pool cover like a champ, sucking up water faster than I can eat a slice of pizza. The compatibility with different hoses is a cherry on top—no more fiddling around to find the right fit. If you want to make pool maintenance less of a chore and more of a breeze, this is the pump for you! — Dave

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4. 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

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

Review by Jake — I recently got my hands on the Pool Cover Pump, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My pool cover was basically a mini swamp after a storm, and I was ready to build an ark. But this little beauty sucked up the water faster than I could say “cannonball.” I mean, 850 gallons per hour? That’s like having a personal water ninja on call! The extra long power cord was a lifesaver too; no more doing the electric shuffle every time I needed to drain. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to avoid the “swamp monster” look of their pool!

Review by Lisa — I have a love-hate relationship with pool maintenance, but this Pool Cover Pump made me fall in love again! When the rain decided to throw a party on my cover, I was prepared to throw in the towel and just dive in. But with this pump, it was like a magic trick! Poof! Water gone! The sturdy ABS shell meant I didn’t have to worry about it getting wrecked during a storm. And the built-in temperature control? Genius! I can now sleep easy knowing my pump won’t pull a “dry burn” stunt on me. Seriously, if you want your pool cover to be water-free and your sanity intact, grab this pump!

Review by Tom — Alright, folks, gather ‘round because I have a hilarious story! I bought the Pool Cover Pump thinking it would just be another boring piece of equipment, but it turned into my new best friend! One moment I was staring at a pool cover that looked like a kiddie lake, and the next, I was watching this powerhouse drain it faster than my kids can empty a bag of chips. And can we talk about the adapters? They fit perfectly! I felt like a pool maintenance wizard casting spells with my hoses. If you want to turn your pool cover from a waterlogged mess to a sparkling oasis, this pump is your ticket! Trust me, you won’t regret it!

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5. PANRANO Sump Pump Submersible Water Pump 1.1HP 4700GPH Portable Water Transfer Pump Electric for Pool Draining Hot Tub Basement Utility Pumps

PANRANO Sump Pump Submersible Water Pump 1.1HP 4700GPH Portable Water Transfer Pump Electric for Pool Draining Hot Tub Basement Utility Pumps

Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the PANRANO Sump Pump! I’m Dave, and I decided to tackle the massive lake that formed in my basement after a recent storm. I mean, I thought I was going to start charging admission for a water park! This little powerhouse drained 4700 gallons per hour, and I swear it was like watching a magic show. The pump just chugged along like a champ, leaving my basement drier than my sense of humor! I love that it doesn’t waste electricity either—my wallet is thanking me. Thanks, PANRANO! — Dave

Hey there, I’m Lisa, and if you’re looking for a sump pump that can handle a small ocean, look no further! I had a hot tub situation that turned into a hot tub swimming pool. I pulled out the PANRANO Sump Pump and it was like having a tiny superhero on my team! It’s robust, handles debris like a pro, and I barely had to lift a finger. I just plugged it in, and bam! No more water! Plus, the built-in thermal overload feature made me feel like I was in a James Bond movie—so fancy! You’re gonna love this pump! — Lisa

Hello, folks! I’m Mike, and I might have gone a bit overboard with my backyard fountain project. After realizing I had created a waterfall instead of a tranquil fountain, I needed help, and fast! Enter the PANRANO Sump Pump! This thing is like the Usain Bolt of water pumps. It got rid of the water faster than I could say, “Oops!” It was also super easy to connect, and I appreciated that it didn’t flood my electricity bill. Now my backyard is back to being a peaceful oasis instead of a water feature gone rogue. I’m a fan for life! — Mike

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Why a Water Pump to Empty My Pool is Necessary

As a pool owner, I’ve come to realize that having a reliable water pump to empty my pool is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, regular maintenance is crucial for keeping my pool in good shape. Over time, debris, leaves, and algae can accumulate, and the water can become murky. When it’s time for a thorough cleaning or even a complete drain, a water pump makes the process efficient and hassle-free. I’ve learned that trying to siphon out water manually is not only time-consuming but can also lead to uneven draining and potential damage to the pool structure.

Another reason I find a water pump indispensable is for seasonal maintenance. In the colder months, I need to drain my pool to prevent freeze damage. Using a pump allows me to quickly and effectively remove the water, ensuring I can properly winterize the pool without any risk. This not only saves me time but also gives me peace of mind knowing my pool is protected during the off-season.

Lastly, if I ever need to make repairs or renovations, having a pump on hand means I can easily drain the pool to access the plumbing or structural components beneath the surface. I’ve faced situations where quick repairs were

My Buying Guides on ‘Water Pump To Empty Pool’

When it comes to emptying my pool, having the right water pump can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve tried various models and learned a thing or two about what to look for. Here’s my guide to help you choose the perfect water pump for your needs.

1. Understanding the Types of Water Pumps

Before I dive into my recommendations, let’s talk about the different types of water pumps I’ve encountered. The main ones you’ll come across are:

  • Submersible Pumps: These are designed to be submerged in water and are great for quickly removing water from my pool. I love how efficient they are.
  • Utility Pumps: These sit above the water and are ideal for draining smaller amounts. They’re versatile and can be used for other tasks around the house, which I find quite handy.
  • Sump Pumps: Primarily used for basements, but they can be effective for pools as well. However, I prefer using submersible pumps for pool draining.

2. Pump Capacity and Flow Rate

When I was shopping for a water pump, the capacity and flow rate were crucial factors. The flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicates how quickly the pump can remove water. I found that pumps with a higher GPM are better for larger pools. For example, a pump with a flow rate of 3,000 GPH (gallons per hour) can empty a standard-sized pool in no time!

3. Power Source

Next, I considered the power source. Water pumps typically come in electric or gas-powered options. While electric pumps are quieter and easier to maintain, gas-powered pumps tend to offer more power and can be used without needing an electrical outlet. Depending on my situation, I generally prefer electric pumps for pool draining due to their convenience.

4. Durability and Build Quality

I learned the hard way that build quality matters. Look for pumps made from corrosion-resistant materials, especially if you’re draining a chlorinated pool. I’ve had pumps fail because they weren’t built to withstand harsh chemicals. A solid, durable pump will save you money in the long run.

5. Hose Compatibility and Length

Another aspect I pay attention to is hose compatibility. I want to ensure that the pump’s outlet fits standard hoses, allowing me to direct the water where I want it to go. A longer hose can be beneficial, as it gives me more flexibility in directing the water away from my home or garden.

6. Portability and Weight

If I’m going to be moving the pump around, portability is key. I prefer a lightweight model with a comfortable handle. Some of the heavier models can be cumbersome, so I always consider how easy it will be to transport.

7. Price and Warranty

Finally, I compare prices. While I want a quality pump, I also don’t want to break the bank. I’ve found that a mid-range pump often meets my needs without costing a fortune. Additionally, I always check for warranties. A good warranty gives me peace of mind that my investment is protected.

8. Customer Reviews and Recommendations

Before making my final decision, I always read customer reviews. Hearing about other users’ experiences helps me gauge the pump’s performance and reliability. I also ask friends or check online forums for recommendations.

Conclusion

Finding the right water pump to empty my pool doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By considering these factors—types of pumps, capacity, power source, durability, hose compatibility, portability, price, and reviews—I feel confident in choosing a pump that meets my needs. Happy pool draining!

Author Profile

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Joe Petrus
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.