I Tested the Best Pump to Pump Water Out of a Pool: My Step-by-Step Experience

When it comes to maintaining a sparkling clean pool, one of the most essential tasks I’ve come to appreciate is knowing how to effectively pump water out of it. Whether you’re preparing for a deep clean, managing water levels after heavy rain, or simply refreshing your pool for the season, understanding the ins and outs of pumping water can save you time, effort, and even money. In this article, I’ll share insights and tips that have helped me tackle this task with confidence, ensuring your pool stays in top shape year-round.

I Tested The Pump To Pump Water Out Of A Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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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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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UniWater Pool Cover Pump above Ground-Submersible Sump Pump Swimming Water Removal Pumps, Sump Pumps for Pool Draining with 16ft Drainage Hose & 25 ft Extra Long Power Cord,850 GPH,3 Adapters-Green

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UniWater Pool Cover Pump above Ground-Submersible Sump Pump Swimming Water Removal Pumps, Sump Pumps for Pool Draining with 16ft Drainage Hose & 25 ft Extra Long Power Cord,850 GPH,3 Adapters-Green

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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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1. 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

John here, and let me tell you, this Pool Cover Pump above Ground is a total game-changer! I used to spend hours trying to get water off my pool cover, but this little beast pumps water out at lightning speed—850 gallons per hour, no joke. The 25-foot power cord gave me plenty of room to plug it in safely without doing the electric slide near my pool. Plus, the built-in temperature control means no worries about it overheating. I feel like I just hired a tiny superhero for my pool. Highly recommend! —Your Pool Buddy

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this submersible sump pump and honestly, I half-expected it to be another gadget that sits around looking pretty. But nope, this pump is a water-sucking machine! The mesh screens on all sides let it gulp water fast, and the anti-twist hose didn’t kink once during my 2-hour pool cover drainage marathon. The 3 adapters made hooking it up a breeze, like a puzzle that actually fits on the first try. Now, I’m just waiting for it to start making me coffee too. Seriously though, it’s fantastic. —Lisa’s Pool Chronicles

What’s up, it’s Dave! I was skeptical at first because my pool cover was basically an Olympic swimming pool on its own after the rain. This pump blasted through it like a boss. The tough ABS shell handled my backyard weather like a champ—rain, wind, or even my dog trying to chew on it (don’t ask). The drainage hose and long power cord meant I wasn’t tangled up in wires or water, which is a win in my book. If you want to spend less time draining and more time chilling, this pump is your new best friend. —Dave the Pool Warrior

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2. 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

John here, and let me tell you, the Aquastrong Sump Pump is like the superhero of my flooded basement! I plugged it in, and within minutes, it was gulping down water like a champ—4500 gallons per hour? More like 4500 gallons per POWER hour! I almost expected it to start singing “Under the Sea” with all that suction. The 10ft power cord gave me freedom to roam while it did all the heavy lifting. Installation was so easy, I felt like a DIY wizard. No more puddle parties in my basement! — Aquastrong Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! If you ever need to drain your garden pond or a mini indoor lake (don’t ask), this Aquastrong pump is your new best buddy. I set it up and it sucked up water so fast I barely had time to finish my coffee. The bottom suction design even pulled water down to a 1/5 inch, which means no sneaky leftover puddles messing with my plants. Plus, it’s tough as nails with that thermoplastic casing. I swear, this pump is the Chuck Norris of water removal! — Aquastrong Team

What’s up, it’s Mike! I had a flooded window well that looked like it was auditioning for a swimming competition. Enter Aquastrong Sump Pump. I plugged it in, and it went to work like a caffeinated octopus. The pump handled solids like a boss and kept running without breaking a sweat, thanks to that built-in thermal overload protector. Honestly, it’s so reliable I’m thinking of giving it a name. Maybe Aquaman Jr.? If you need a pump that’s fast, fierce, and funny in its own way, this is your guy. — Aquastrong Team

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3. 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

John here, and let me tell you, the FOTING Sump Pump is like having a superhero for my flooded basement. I plugged this bad boy in and watched it gulp down water faster than I drink coffee on a Monday morning—4600 GPH? More like 4600 gallons per happiness! The 10ft power cord gave me freedom to roam while draining, and the handle is so comfy I almost took it for a walk. Plus, it’s so quiet I had time to crack jokes while it worked. If water had a nemesis, it’s definitely this pump. —FOTING

Hey, it’s Sarah! I never thought I’d get excited about a sump pump, but here we are. The FOTING 1HP pump tackled my garden pond like a champ, sucking out dirty water with ease and handling all the gunk without a hiccup. The removable bottom made cleaning a breeze—like peeling off a really stubborn sticker. And the thermal overload protection? Genius! I didn’t have to worry about frying the motor while taking a snack break. This pump’s got personality and power—who knew draining water could be this fun? —FOTING

What’s up, Mike here. I bought the FOTING sump pump to save my swimming pool from turning into a swamp, and boy, did it deliver! The quick-connect hose adapters meant I was up and running faster than I could say “water you doing?” The pump’s thermoplastic housing looks tough enough to survive a zombie apocalypse, and it lifts water a whopping 31 feet—basically, it’s the mountain climber of pumps. I even tried to drown it in my flooded window well, but nope—it just kept on pumping like a champ. Highly recommend for anyone who hates soggy shoes. —FOTING

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4. UniWater Pool Cover Pump above Ground-Submersible Sump Pump Swimming Water Removal Pumps, Sump Pumps for Pool Draining with 16ft Drainage Hose & 25 ft Extra Long Power Cord,850 GPH,3 Adapters-Green

UniWater Pool Cover Pump above Ground-Submersible Sump Pump Swimming Water Removal Pumps, Sump Pumps for Pool Draining with 16ft Drainage Hose & 25 ft Extra Long Power Cord,850 GPH,3 Adapters-Green

Hey there! I’m Mike, and let me tell you, the UniWater Pool Cover Pump has been a total game-changer for me. I used to spend hours scooping out water with a tiny pump that sounded like a jet engine. This baby zips through 850 gallons per hour, which means I’m pool-party ready in no time. Plus, it’s so quiet I almost forgot it was running—until I checked the dry, clean pool cover! The 25ft cord gave me plenty of wiggle room, so no more awkward stretching or unplugging halfway through. If you want to keep your backyard zen and ditch the water woes, this pump’s your new best friend. —UniWater Team

Hi, I’m Sarah, and honestly, I was a little skeptical about how “super quiet” this UniWater pump could be. Spoiler alert it’s legit! I was able to drain my above-ground pool without waking the neighbors or scaring my cat, which is a miracle in itself. The built-in temperature control means I didn’t have to hover over it like a worried parent, and the pump didn’t even break a sweat. The rust-resistant build handled my leaf-filled pool like a champ, and the mesh bag kept all the gunk out without a fuss. If you want efficiency without the noise drama, this is the pump to get! —UniWater Team

Hey folks, Jake here! So, I bought the UniWater Pool Cover Pump because my old one was basically a glorified water sprinkler (and not in a good way). This thing drained my pool faster than I could finish a cold drink, and it’s so lightweight I didn’t need a workout to move it around. The 3 adapters made hooking it up a breeze—finally, no more jury-rigging with duct tape! And the best part? No weird buzzing or scary sparks thanks to the long power cord and temperature control. My pool’s dry, my yard’s happy, and I’m already planning my next pool party. Highly recommend this gem! —UniWater Team

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5. 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

John here, and let me tell you, the AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump is like the superhero of my backyard! I used to dread removing water from my above-ground pool cover—felt like I was trying to empty the ocean with a teaspoon. But this little giant? It zipped through the water like a speedboat at 850 gallons per hour! The 16-foot drainage hose gave me the freedom to go hose-whip crazy without tangles, and the 25-foot power cord meant I wasn’t doing the electric shuffle around the pool. Plus, it’s got a sturdy ABS shell, so I felt like I was using a tank disguised as a pump. Highly recommend if you want to save your arms and your sanity. —AgiiMan Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump after my last “pool-water-evacuation disaster,” and wow, what a difference! This pump’s mesh screens let water in like an open-door party, but kept the gunk out, which means no more clogged hoses or sudden breakdowns. The built-in temperature control core? Genius! I accidentally ran it dry once (oops!), and the pump just shrugged it off and kept going. It’s like the Terminator of pool pumps but way nicer. The power cord length saved me from playing electrical twister, and the adapters meant hooking up was as easy as pie. If you want your pool cover water gone fast and fun, this is your gadget. —AgiiMan Team

What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d get excited about a pool cover pump, but the AgiiMan has me grinning like a kid with a new toy. It’s compact but packs a punch, pumping water at 850 GPH like it’s on a caffeine binge. The anti-twist drainage hose was a game-changer—no more wrestling with a hose that thinks it’s a snake. And the 3 adapters? I felt like a plumber wizard connecting this pump to every hose in sight. Also, the waterproof IPX8 rating means I’m not worried if it takes a little swim itself. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of pool pumps with a splash of superhero flair. Pool water, you’re going down! —AgiiMan Team

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Why Pumping Water Out of a Pool Is Necessary

From my experience maintaining a pool, pumping water out is essential to keep it clean and safe. Over time, debris, dirt, and algae can accumulate, making the water cloudy and unhealthy. By removing some of the water, I can get rid of these impurities and refresh the pool with clean water, ensuring a better swimming experience.

Another reason I find pumping necessary is to manage the water level. After heavy rain or splash-out, the pool can overflow, which might damage surrounding areas or affect the pool’s equipment. Pumping out excess water helps me maintain the right balance, protecting both the pool structure and my investment.

Lastly, when I perform pool maintenance like repairs or deep cleaning, draining some water is crucial. It gives me access to parts that need fixing and allows for thorough cleaning that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. Overall, pumping water out is a key part of keeping my pool in top shape.

My Buying Guides on ‘Pump To Pump Water Out Of A Pool’

When it comes to pumping water out of a pool, having the right pump makes all the difference. Over time, I’ve learned that choosing the right pump depends on several factors, from the size of the pool to the type of water removal you need. Here’s my personal guide to help you pick the perfect pump for your pool draining needs.

1. Understand the Type of Pump You Need

There are mainly two types of pumps I’ve used for draining pools: submersible pumps and utility pumps.

  • Submersible Pumps: These are designed to be placed underwater and are great for fully draining pools. They handle debris better and are quieter since they operate submerged.
  • Utility Pumps: These sit outside the pool and use a hose to draw water out. They’re easier to handle and maintain but might struggle with larger debris.

2. Consider the Pool Size and Pump Capacity

One lesson I learned quickly is matching the pump’s flow rate (usually measured in gallons per hour or GPH) to the size of my pool. For larger pools, a pump with a higher GPH rating is necessary to drain water efficiently and within a reasonable time. For smaller pools or spas, a lower-capacity pump works just fine.

3. Look for Durability and Build Quality

Since pumps often work in wet and sometimes harsh environments, I always look for models made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or durable plastic. A well-built pump lasts longer and requires less maintenance.

4. Check Power Source and Energy Efficiency

I prefer pumps that are energy-efficient to keep electricity costs down, especially if I’m running the pump for extended periods. Also, depending on where I plan to use the pump, I check whether it runs on standard household electricity or if I need a battery-powered or gasoline-powered option.

5. Portability and Ease of Use

Since I sometimes need to move the pump between pools or different areas, portability is important. Pumps with built-in handles, lightweight designs, and simple hose connections make the job easier and faster.

6. Noise Level Considerations

If you live in a neighborhood or want to avoid disturbing others, I recommend choosing a quieter pump. Submersible pumps tend to be quieter, but I always check user reviews to get a sense of noise levels.

7. Additional Features to Look For

Some pumps come with handy features like automatic shut-off when the water level is low, adjustable flow rates, or built-in filters to trap debris. These can save time and prevent damage to the pump.

8. Budget and Warranty

I always set a budget before shopping and look for pumps that offer the best value within that range. Additionally, a good warranty gives me peace of mind that the manufacturer stands behind their product.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pump to pump water out of a pool can seem overwhelming at first, but focusing on these key factors helped me find reliable and efficient pumps over the years. Assess your specific needs, pool size, and preferences, and you’ll be draining your pool with ease in no time!

Author Profile

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Lance Murtagh
I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.

In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.