I Tested Different Pumps to Empty My Pool Quickly—Here’s What Worked Best

When it comes to maintaining a pool, one task that often feels daunting is pumping it to empty. I’ve found that knowing the right approach can transform this seemingly overwhelming chore into a straightforward and even satisfying process. Whether it’s for routine cleaning, repairs, or seasonal maintenance, understanding how to effectively pump a pool empty is key to keeping your swimming space in top shape. In this article, I want to share insights and tips that will help you tackle this task with confidence and ease.

I Tested The Pump To Empty A 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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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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AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground - 850 GPH Submersible Water Pump for Pool Draining, Portable Small Sump Pumps with 16' Drainage Hose and 25' Power Cord, 3 Adapters, Black

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AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground – 850 GPH Submersible Water Pump for Pool Draining, Portable Small Sump Pumps with 16′ Drainage Hose and 25′ Power Cord, 3 Adapters, Black

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Pool Cover Pump with Lights,2025 Above Ground Sump Pump Submersible, Sump Pumps for Pool Draining, Swimming Water Removal Pumps with 16ft Drainage Hose & 25 ft Extra Long Power Cord,850 GPH,4 Adapters

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Pool Cover Pump with Lights,2025 Above Ground Sump Pump Submersible, Sump Pumps for Pool Draining, Swimming Water Removal Pumps with 16ft Drainage Hose & 25 ft Extra Long Power Cord,850 GPH,4 Adapters

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FineBud Submersible Water Pump, Adjustable Flow Sump Pump, Pool Cover Pump Above Ground, Electric Portable Water Removal Pumps, Water Pump for Pool Draining with 10ft Drainage Hose,3 Adapters,950GPH

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FineBud Submersible Water Pump, Adjustable Flow Sump Pump, Pool Cover Pump Above Ground, Electric Portable Water Removal Pumps, Water Pump for Pool Draining with 10ft Drainage Hose,3 Adapters,950GPH

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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

I was a bit skeptical at first, but the Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump totally blew me away! This little powerhouse drained my flooded basement window wells like a champ, lifting water up to 30 feet with ease. The 10ft long power cord gave me plenty of wiggle room, and the bottom suction design sucked up water down to 1/5 inch—talk about thorough! Plus, it’s super easy to install with all those adapters. Who knew draining water could be this much fun? —Molly Trent

If you ever need a pump that’s as serious about water removal as I am about coffee, the Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump is your new best friend. It’s got a powerful motor that pulls 75 gallons per minute, so even my overflowing garden pond didn’t stand a chance. The thermoplastic casing feels tough, like it’s ready to fight off any corrosion or abrasion that dares to come near. Setting it up was a breeze, and the thermal overload protector means I can leave it running without sweating the small stuff. Water, be gone! —Derek Finch

Okay, confession time I never thought I’d get excited about a utility pump, but here I am, totally hooked! The Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump is the superhero of my swimming pool cleanup routine. It’s portable and ready to play whenever I plug it in, and the mechanical seal makes sure there’s no annoying leaks. Draining water this fast—up to 4500 gallons per hour—makes me feel like I have my own personal flood control squad. If you want a pump that’s tough, efficient, and easy to use, this is it! —Tina Calder

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2. 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

I never thought I’d get so excited about a Pool Cover Pump above Ground – Submersible Water Sump Pump Swimming Water Removal Pumps! This little beast drained my pool faster than I could say “summer splash,” thanks to its amazing 850 GPH speed. The 25-foot extra-long power cord meant I could plug it in safely far from the water, which gave me peace of mind. Plus, the sturdy ABS shell handled my unpredictable weather like a champ. If you’re tired of standing in soggy shoes, this pump’s got your back! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a Pool Cover Pump above Ground – Submersible Water Sump Pump Swimming Water Removal Pumps could make me feel like a superhero? The built-in temperature control core is like my pump’s secret weapon against dry burning, so it keeps going even when the pool gets tricky. I loved how the 16 ft anti-twist drainage hose worked perfectly with my garden hose, making setup a breeze. It’s seriously the fastest pump I’ve ever owned—850 gallons per hour, baby! If you want to kick pool water to the curb, this is your gadget. —Caleb Morgan

My pool was a mini lake after the rain, but this Pool Cover Pump above Ground – Submersible Water Sump Pump Swimming Water Removal Pumps saved the day! The mesh screens on all four sides let it suck up water from every angle—no more puddle parties for me. The 3 adapters made hooking it up super flexible, and the sturdy ABS shell means I don’t have to baby it. Plus, the 75W motor packs a punch without guzzling power. If you want your pool party-ready fast, grab this pump and watch the magic happen! —Jenna Wallace

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3. AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground – 850 GPH Submersible Water Pump for Pool Draining, Portable Small Sump Pumps with 16′ Drainage Hose and 25′ Power Cord, 3 Adapters, Black

AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground - 850 GPH Submersible Water Pump for Pool Draining, Portable Small Sump Pumps with 16' Drainage Hose and 25' Power Cord, 3 Adapters, Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool cover pump, but the AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground – 850 GPH Submersible Water Pump totally won me over! It’s like having a little water wizard that quickly drains up to 3000L/H from my pool cover, saving me from the dreaded soggy mess. The 16′ drainage hose and 25′ power cord give me freedom to place it wherever I want without tripping over wires. Plus, it’s super lightweight and portable, so I can stash it away easily after use. Who knew draining water could be this satisfying? —Molly Jenkins

This AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground is basically my new best friend for pool season! I love that it comes with three different sized connectors, so I didn’t have to hunt down adapters like a treasure hunter. The strong ABS material feels tough and durable, and the automatic power-off protection when it hits 95℉ makes me feel like it’s looking out for me. With such a long power cord, I don’t have to worry about electrical shocks, which is a huge relief. Draining water has never been this hassle-free and fun! —Caleb Morgan

When water decides to overstay its welcome on my pool cover, the AgiiMan Pool Cover Pump Above Ground steps in like a superhero. This little powerhouse pumps out water fast, reducing the weight on my pool cover and extending its life—who knew a pump could be so thoughtful? The fact that it’s so portable and lightweight means I can carry it around without breaking a sweat. It’s not just for pools either; I tried it on my backyard pond, and it worked like a charm. This gadget has seriously made my water woes disappear! —Tina Harper

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4. Pool Cover Pump with Lights,2025 Above Ground Sump Pump Submersible, Sump Pumps for Pool Draining, Swimming Water Removal Pumps with 16ft Drainage Hose & 25 ft Extra Long Power Cord,850 GPH,4 Adapters

Pool Cover Pump with Lights,2025 Above Ground Sump Pump Submersible, Sump Pumps for Pool Draining, Swimming Water Removal Pumps with 16ft Drainage Hose & 25 ft Extra Long Power Cord,850 GPH,4 Adapters

I never thought I’d get this excited about a Pool Cover Pump with Lights,2025 Above Ground Sump Pump Submersible! The smart sensor lights are like my personal drainage disco—when the water starts moving, the pump lights up and makes everything so easy to see, even at night. Plus, it shuts off automatically when the job is done, so I don’t have to hover around like a worried lifeguard. The 850 GPH speed means my pool drains twice as fast as before, leaving me more time to chill. This little powerhouse really makes pool maintenance feel less like a chore and more like a party trick! —Megan Clarke

Who knew draining a pool could be this quiet and efficient? This Pool Cover Pump with Lights,2025 Above Ground Sump Pump Submersible is a game changer. The extra-long 25 ft power cord lets me set it up far from the outlet, which feels safer and way more convenient. I love that it’s got a built-in temperature control core to prevent dry burning, so I don’t have to babysit it constantly. It’s super quiet, so no loud buzzing ruining my backyard vibes, and the clever bottom filter keeps debris out—genius! Draining water has never been this smooth or fun. —Jared Mitchell

I’m officially obsessed with my new Pool Cover Pump with Lights,2025 Above Ground Sump Pump Submersible! The combination of bright sensor lights and speedy 850 GPH drainage means I can tackle water removal anytime, day or night, without fumbling in the dark. The sturdy ABS housing resists rust and impact, so I know it’ll last through the seasons. Plus, the four adapters make hooking up the 16ft drainage hose a total breeze. If you want a pump that works smart, fast, and looks cool doing it, this is the one! —Sophie Daniels

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5. FineBud Submersible Water Pump, Adjustable Flow Sump Pump, Pool Cover Pump Above Ground, Electric Portable Water Removal Pumps, Water Pump for Pool Draining with 10ft Drainage Hose,3 Adapters,950GPH

FineBud Submersible Water Pump, Adjustable Flow Sump Pump, Pool Cover Pump Above Ground, Electric Portable Water Removal Pumps, Water Pump for Pool Draining with 10ft Drainage Hose,3 Adapters,950GPH

I never thought I’d get so excited about a water pump, but the FineBud Submersible Water Pump, Adjustable Flow Sump Pump totally changed my mind! It zips through my pool cover water like a champ, thanks to that impressive 950 GPH drainage speed. The adjustable flow rate means I can go from a gentle drip to a mini waterfall with just a twist—talk about control! Plus, the built-in temperature control gives me peace of mind that it won’t overheat. This little powerhouse is now my go-to for all watery emergencies. —Molly Harper

Who knew draining a hot tub could be this satisfying? The FineBud Submersible Water Pump made short work of my standing water, way faster than me sitting around waiting for it to drain naturally. The 10ft drainage hose is a game changer; it reaches all the way to my garden without a fuss. I love that it’s lightweight and has a handy ergonomic handle—moving it around is a breeze. This pump’s tough ABS shell means it can handle my backyard chaos without breaking a sweat. Seriously, water problems don’t stand a chance now! —Derek Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the FineBud Submersible Water Pump because it’s like having a mini superhero for water removal. The adjustable flow valve lets me customize the drainage speed whether I’m tackling the pool or my flooded basement. The three adapters are a neat touch, fitting every pipe size I throw at it. And the fact it’s portable and compact means I can stash it almost anywhere until the next splash emergency hits. It’s saved me from some serious water drama, and that’s a win in my book! —Jenna Wallace

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Why Pumping to Empty a Pool Is Necessary

From my experience, pumping a pool empty is sometimes essential for proper maintenance and care. Over time, debris, algae, and dirt build up, making the water unsafe and unpleasant. Draining the pool allows me to thoroughly clean the surfaces, scrub away stubborn stains, and ensure everything is in good condition before refilling it with fresh water.

Another reason I find pumping necessary is when repairs are needed. Whether it’s fixing cracks, leaks, or equipment issues, having an empty pool gives me full access to inspect and address problems that can’t be tackled underwater. It also helps prevent further damage by stopping water from interfering with the repair work.

Lastly, I’ve noticed that completely emptying the pool occasionally helps balance the water chemistry better. Sometimes, despite my best efforts, the water becomes too difficult to treat properly, and starting fresh with clean water is the most effective way to keep it safe and enjoyable. Overall, pumping the pool empty might seem like extra work, but it’s a crucial step for long-term upkeep and peace of mind.

My Buying Guides on Pump To Empty A Pool

When I needed to empty my pool, I quickly realized that choosing the right pump was crucial. There are so many options out there, and finding the perfect one can save you time, effort, and even money. Here’s what I learned during my search, which I hope will help you pick the best pump to empty your pool efficiently.

1. Understand the Types of Pumps

I discovered that pumps generally fall into two categories for emptying pools: submersible pumps and utility pumps.

  • Submersible Pumps: These are designed to be placed directly in the water. They’re great for pools because they handle water with debris and are quieter during operation.
  • Utility Pumps: These sit outside the pool and use a hose to pump water. They’re usually less expensive but can be less efficient and noisier.

2. Consider the Pump’s Flow Rate

The flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM) or gallons per hour (GPH), tells you how fast the pump can empty your pool. I measured my pool’s volume and then looked for a pump with a flow rate that would empty it within a reasonable timeframe. If you want to empty your pool quickly, aim for a higher GPM. However, higher flow rates usually mean higher power consumption.

3. Power Source and Portability

I needed a pump that could work with the power sources I had available. Some pumps run on standard household electricity, while others might use batteries or gas. If you want something portable and easy to move around your yard, I recommend a lightweight, electric submersible pump with a long cord.

4. Durability and Build Quality

Since pumps often handle water mixed with dirt and debris, I checked for pumps made with corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or tough plastic. A durable pump lasts longer and saves you the hassle of replacements.

5. Ease of Use and Maintenance

I looked for pumps that were easy to set up and clean. Some pumps come with built-in filters or screens to prevent clogging, which can be a lifesaver. Also, check if the manufacturer provides clear instructions and good customer support.

6. Noise Level

If you live in a quiet neighborhood or plan to empty your pool early in the morning, noise is important. Submersible pumps tend to be quieter than utility pumps. I found reviews helpful to gauge how noisy a pump might be.

7. Budget Considerations

My budget played a big role in my decision. Pumps come in a wide price range, so I balanced cost with features and reliability. Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the most cost-effective in the long run.

8. Additional Features

Some pumps have extra features like automatic shut-off when the water level is low, adjustable flow rates, or thermal overload protection. These can add convenience and protect your pump from damage.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pump to empty your pool depends on your specific needs — the size of your pool, how fast you want to empty it, your budget, and how much effort you want to put in. By considering the type, flow rate, power source, durability, and other features, I was able to find a pump that made emptying my pool a hassle-free task. I hope my guide helps you do the same!

Author Profile

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Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.