10 Best Pool Pumps 2025 in the United States

The Intex 26637EG C1000 Cartridge Filter Pump is designed specifically for above-ground pools up to 6,000 gallons, making it suitable for smaller to mid-sized pools. It offers a flow rate of 1,000 gallons per hour at the pump, which helps maintain good water circulation and filtration, contributing to clearer water. Its HydroAeration technology improves circulation and increases oxygenation at the water surface, enhancing water quality. Installation is simple—just connect the hoses and plug it in—making it user-friendly for those seeking an easy setup.

Maintenance is straightforward; the pump uses Type A filter cartridges made from easy-to-clean Dacron paper, requiring changes about every two weeks. The pump is lightweight and compact, constructed primarily of plastic, so while it is built to last for typical home use, it may not be as durable as heavier-duty metal pumps. Noise levels are generally designed to be reasonably quiet for residential environments. The pump is advertised as energy-efficient and safe, which is reassuring for homeowners.

For owners of Intex above-ground pools or similarly sized pools, this pump offers good value with reliable performance, easy maintenance, and improved water clarity without a complex setup. Those with larger pools or who desire a more heavy-duty, quieter, or highly energy-efficient option may want to consider higher horsepower models with more detailed energy specifications.

The Intex QX2600 2,650 GPH Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump & Saltwater System is a versatile choice for pool owners with pools up to 15,000 gallons. It offers a sand filter, which is cost-efficient and requires sand replacement every five years with regular backwashing. This can save on long-term maintenance costs.

The system boasts a high flow rate of 2,650 gallons per hour, ensuring rapid and effective water circulation through six different cleaning functions, including filtering, backwashing, and recirculating. This comprehensive filtering system helps maintain optimal pool cleanliness. Additionally, the pump features a 24-hour digital timer, making it convenient to schedule and automate cleaning cycles for up to 12 hours, which is user-friendly and saves time. HydroAeration Technology enhances water circulation, clarity, and freshness, improving the pool environment.

The product includes necessary accessories such as connector hoses and a safety GFCI power cord for added convenience and safety. Weighing 50 pounds, this pump is relatively heavy and might require some effort to install. It operates on a standard 120 volts power source and is designed for above-ground pools. Despite its many strengths, the unit is made of plastic, which may raise concerns about long-term durability compared to metal components. The Intex QX2600 is a robust and efficient pool pump suitable for medium to large above-ground pools, offering good value for its cleaning performance and user-friendly features.

The Intex 26651EG 3,000 GPH Above Ground Pool Sand Filter Pump is a corded electric sand filter pump designed for above-ground pools. It boasts a high pump flow rate of 3,000 gallons per hour, making it suitable for pools up to 19,600 gallons, which is ideal for medium to large-sized pools. The included HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY improves water circulation, filtration, and clarity, making pool maintenance easier and more efficient.

The built-in 24-hour timer with pre-set cycles (2 to 12 hours) enhances user convenience by automating the filtration process. Installation is quite straightforward, requiring only the hookup of hoses and plugging in the unit, although partial assembly is necessary. Users have highlighted its strong performance, evidenced by a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 21,000 reviews. The pump operates at 120 volts and weighs 48 pounds, making it relatively manageable for setup and maintenance.

It is important to note that it is made of plastic, which may raise concerns about long-term durability compared to metal alternatives. Additionally, while the pump is designed for safety and value, some users may find the noise level higher than desired, as is common with many pool pumps. This Intex sand filter pump is a solid choice for those needing efficient and user-friendly pool maintenance, especially for above-ground pool owners looking for a reliable and easy-to-install option.