The best pool cover pumps are essential for maintaining your swimming pool during off-seasons or inclement weather. These pumps quickly remove standing water from pool covers, preventing damage and prolonging the life of your pool equipment. With so many options available, it can be challenging to find the right one. We’ve combed through Amazon to present you with the top 10 pool cover pumps of 2025, each with its unique features, advantages, and disadvantages.
1. Wayne CDU980E Submersible 3/4 HP Clean Water Pump
The Wayne CDU980E is a powerful and robust submersible cover pump that can handle up to 4,600 gallons per hour. Its oil-free motor is not only environmentally friendly but also ensures quiet operation, making it ideal for residential areas where noise might be an issue. You can also benefit from its automatic operation, which activates as soon as water levels reach 1/2 inch.
Pros:
- High water removal capacity
- Automatic shut-off feature
- Durable design
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to alternatives
- Can be heavy, difficult to move
−$54.49
- INDOOR USE ONLY - This 3/4 HP WAYNE basement sump pump is perfect to keep your basement dry during heavy water flow. Whether it’s rain, snow melting, etc. WAYNE model CDU980E can pump up to 5,490 GPH to keep your basement dry.
- TOUGH AND DURABLE - Corrosion-resistant stainless steel motor housing and fasteners come with a cast-iron volute that provides long life in tough sump pump applications.
- EFFICIENT DESIGN - The top suction design eliminates air lock and minimizes clogging from any debris in the bottom of the sump pit. Easy to install in about 15 minutes with no need to drill a weep hole!
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES - 1-1/2” NPT discharge for compliance with building codes.
- QUALITY YOU DESERVE - Proudly assembled in the USA for quality you can trust. Warrantied for 5 years for dependable, efficient, & ultra-quiet performance.
2. Superior Pump 91250 Submersible Utility Pump
The Superior Pump 91250 is versatile and budget-friendly, capable of pumping up to 1,380 gallons per hour. It is ideal for light-duty applications, making it great for pool covers. The pump features a 1/4 HP motor, making it lightweight yet effective. Its thermoplastic construction makes it resistant to corrosion, and it has a 10-foot power cord for extended reach.
Pros:
- Highly affordable
- Lightweight and portable
- Corrosion-resistant
Cons:
- Lower capacity than heavier-duty models
- May require more frequent manual adjustments
- 1/4 HP Utility pump moves up to 1,800 gallons per hour; pump will lift water up to 25' of vertical height
- Tough thermoplastic construction; 10' cord length
- 1-1/4 inch NPT discharge for high capacity pumping; includes 3/4 inch garden hose adapter
- Removable suction screen and handles up to 1/8 inch solids
- Superior Pumps are Built to Last, engineered with quality components and are 100% factory tested
3. Little Giant 577301 1/6 HP Submersible Pump
The Little Giant 577301 is a well-built submersible pump featuring a 1/6 HP motor for reliable performance. It boasts a robust thermoplastic body and can handle water levels up to 5 feet. Designed for a variety of applications, this pump is a go-to for many in the pool cover industry. With its automatic operation, it’s hands-off until you need to store your pump for winter.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Automatic float switch for ease of use
- Durable material
Cons:
- May struggle with larger water volumes
- Shorter power cord compared to others
- Excellent Draining Performance: High-efficiency submersible utility pump with 1/6 HP power motor. Draning water up to 1760 Gallons Per Hour( 29.3 gallons per minute) at 5ft. Lifts water up to 29.5 ft of vertical height. Utility pump with 10ft power cord and pure copper wire motor, energy efficient and high productive, perform well in drainage
4. ECO-FLO Products ECD50 Submersible Utility Pump
The ECO-FLO ECD50 is a fantastic choice for eco-conscious users. This pump combines a powerful 1/2 HP motor with energy-efficient technology. It can pump up to 2,400 gallons per hour, making it perfect for medium-duty applications such as pool covers. The thermoplastic construction is lightweight and resists both rust and corrosion.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly design
- Balanced performance and affordability
- Easy to set up and operate
Cons:
- Limited warranty period
- Pumping capacity may be insufficient for larger pools
- Designed for numerous residential uses including flooded basements, window wells, spas, cisterns, sumps, and flooding in low lying areas
- Continuous duty, efficient 115V psc (permanent split capacitor) motor for lower carbon footprint; higher efficiency using less energy to operate
- Made of corrosion resistant thermoplastic for long life
- Download the User Manual under the Technical Specification section of this page for safety, installation, troubleshooting, and warranty information
- Click on the ECO-FLO Products link at the top of this page to see more pump options from ECO-FLO Products
5. SumpMarine UTP 115-Volt Portable Water Pump
The SumpMarine UTP is a multifunctional pump that boasts incredible versatility, as it can serve both as a pool cover pump and for general water removal. Featuring a powerful 1/4 HP motor, it can efficiently pump up to 1,200 gallons per hour. Its durable construction makes it ideal for regular use, and the pump is lightweight for easy portability.
Pros:
- Great for various applications
- Affordable price
- Easy to store
Cons:
- May require frequent monitoring
- Not the most powerful option available
- EASY TO USE: Simply prime the pump with food-grade vegetable oil, place the intake hose attachment fully submerged in water, and plug it in. Do not run the pump dry — always ensure the suction attachment is submerged before turning on to prevent damage.
- POWERFUL: The (115 Volt) 1/10 HorsePower motor, transfers water at a rate of up to 330 Gallons Per Hour!
- LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLE: Easy to store and haul, this mini utility pump offers big value in a little package
- MULTIPURPOSE: Perfect for transferring water from aquariums, washing machines, water beds, water heaters, clogged sinks, and more.
- INCLUDES: 6' hose and Water Suction attachment, as well as an impeller replacement kit
6. Tsurumi HS2.4S-62 Submersible Pump
The Tsurumi HS2.4S-62 is a highly durable, professional-grade pump with a 1/2 HP motor, making it efficient for heavy-duty use. It can handle up to 185 gallons per minute, translating to a remarkable 11,100 gallons per hour. Thanks to its wear-resistant design, it can provide reliable service even in more challenging conditions.
Pros:
- Exceptional pumping capacity
- Durable, high-quality construction
- Suitable for heavy-duty applications
Cons:
- More expensive than most options
- Heavier and less portable
- The Tsurumi HS2.4S Submersible Electric Trash Pump comes equipped with a semi-vortex impeller and an integrated agitator, allowing it to effortlessly handle debris up to 0.3 inch in size. This pump is meant to handle water containing sand, solids and debris with minimal wear and clogging.
- Equipped with a 1/2 horsepower motor, this submersible pump delivers powerful and reliable performance. It operates on a standard 115V power supply, making it suitable for various applications, from construction sites to disaster remediation. The HS2.4S pump comes with a 20ft cord.
- The angled 2 inch discharge port provides you with flexibility in choosing compatible hoses and fittings, simplifying your setup, and enhancing productivity. The angled discharge allows the pump to tackle the various applications this multi-use pump encounters.
- Tsurumi is a world leader of submersible pumps in the construction, rental, and water features markets. Engineered for durability, Tsurumi products outlast the competition in pump life, product offering and cost savings.
- Tsurumi products come with a 2-YEAR WARRANTY and are UL & CSA certified. Please contact Tsurumi (America), Inc. with any questions or concerns.
7. RIDGID 50373 1/6 HP Lightweight Submersible Sump Pump
The RIDGID 50373 offers dependable performance for pool cover pump tasks, especially with its compact 1/6 HP design that still delivers impressive results. Capable of pumping 2,280 gallons per hour, this lightweight pump is also equipped with a top suction design to prevent clogging. Its design is easily transportable, making it suitable for a variety of applications.
Pros:
- Lightweight and user-friendly
- Effective anti-clogging feature
- Great for both pools and other water removal tasks
Cons:
- Lower pumping capacity for larger pools
- 1/6 HP may not be sufficient for heavy-duty needs
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8. Campbell Hausfeld 1/6 HP Submersible Utility Pump
The Campbell Hausfeld Utility Pump is designed for homeowners seeking a simple yet effective solution for water removal. Its compact design makes it easy to transport and set up. With a pumping capacity of 1,500 gallons per hour, this pump is great for removing water from pool covers and maintaining your yard drainage.
Pros:
- Competitive price
- Compact and portable
- Easy to use with minimal setup
Cons:
- Limited pumping capacity for larger jobs
- Not ideal for extended use
−$14.99
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box
9. Green Expert 1HP Submersible Water Pump
For those who need a heavy-duty option, the Green Expert offers a powerful 1HP submersible water pump. With the capacity to pump up to 4000 gallons per hour, it’s ideal for larger pools. The durable construction ensures longevity, while the built-in automatic float switch offers hassle-free operation.
Pros:
- High pumping capacity for large jobs
- Automatic float switch included
- Durable and built to last
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Heavier than some competitors
- 【High-Efficiency Water Drain Pump 】Features an advanced oil-free PSC motor for efficient power conversion and low consumption, offering a robust 1.0HP output. Capable of lifting water up to Max. 32 feet vertically, it boasts a maximum flow rate of 4500 gallons per hour at zero feet, and 54 gallons per minute at a 10-foot discharge lift, perfect for handling high-volume water drainage tasks with ease.
- 【Effortless Plug-and-play Functionality】This utility pump gets right to work the second it's powered up, dropping water levels down to just 1/5 inch. It's a quick and efficient way as a handy backup pump to drain water from flooded homes, basements, sumps, window wells, water tanks, pools, cisterns, hot tubs, and those low-lying spots that are prone to water buildup.
- 【More Hose Installation Options】Includes two plastic adapters for versatile pumping options: 1” & 1-1/4" & 1-1/2" barb for discharge hoses, ideal for high-capacity pumping; 3/4” GHT and 1" & 1-1/2" NPT for garden hoses and threaded hoses, simplifying quick installations. *For optimal performance, avoid using expandable or retractable hoses with this pump, as they may hinder its full capability.
- 【Green and Tough】Features full corrosion-resistant, reinforced thermoplastic construction that achieves environmental consciousness and durability, and equipped with thermal overload protection, ensuring reliability in water removal applications. It's built for continuous duty use, providing peace of mind and long-lasting performance. A perfect fit for your home and garden!
- 【User-Friendly Design for Seamless Installation and Transport】This compact item fits perfectly in narrow pits with its top discharge and integrated body design. With a 25-foot long grounded waterproof power cord and a portable handle, you can safely and easily manage the setup from a distance, eliminating the hassle of extension cords and simplifying the installation process.
10. Integra Submersible Utility Pump
The Integra Submersible Utility Pump offers an affordable option for homeowners with a compact flow rate. With a 1/6 HP motor capable of pumping up to 1,500 gallons per hour, it’s suitable for general water removal tasks, including pool cover maintenance. Its lightweight design allows for easy maneuverability around the pool area.
Pros:
- Very affordable option
- Lightweight design for easy use
- Good for small to medium tasks
Cons:
- Less powerful compared to heavy-duty models
- May require more frequent operation checks
- Efficient Sump Pump: Aquastrong sump pump with 1HP powerful motor. Draining water up to 4500GPH Per Hour( 75 gallons per minute) at 5ft. Lift water up to 30ft of vertical height
- Portable Design: Plug in to play while unplug to stop. Bottom suction design filters debris and removes water down to 1/5 inch from the surface. It can handle up to 1/5″solids , ideal for draining hot tub and flooded basement window wells
- Easy Installation: 1-1/4'' NPT discharge comes with 1-1/2'' elbow adapter and snap coupling adapter of 3/4'', 1'' or 1-1/4'', which makes Submersible pump easy to install. 10ft UL power cord provides safety and convenience
- Safe & Durable: The submersible water pump is made of reinforced engineering thermoplastic casing resists corrosion and abrasion. Quality mechanical seal prevents leakage effectively for long service life. Built-in thermal overload protector will keep the motor from burning out when dry running
- Quality Service: Aquastrong customer service provides professional technical supports, keeps your water system stable and worry-free
This compilation of the best pool cover pumps for 2025 provides a range of options suitable for all applications and budgets. Whether you need something lightweight for home use or something more robust, this list should serve as a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect pump for your swimming pool needs.
Buying Guide for Pool Cover Pumps
When it comes to maintaining your swimming pool during the off-season, a reliable pool cover pump is essential. These pumps help remove water accumulation on your pool cover, preventing damage and ensuring your cover remains functional. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right pool cover pump.
1. Understand Your Needs
- Pool Size: Consider the size of your pool and the surface area of your cover. Larger pools may require more powerful pumps.
- Cover Type: Different cover materials may require specific types of pumps. Mesh covers might drain differently than solid covers.
- Climate: If you live in a region with heavy rainfall or snow, you will need a pump with a higher capacity.
2. Pump Types
- Submersible Pumps: These are placed directly in the water and are ideal for solid covers as they can drain water effectively.
- Manual Pumps: Require manual operation and are less convenient, suitable for minimal water accumulation.
- Automatic Pumps: Feature a float switch that activates the pump when water reaches a certain level. These are more convenient and efficient for regular use.
3. Power and Capacity
- Flow Rate: Measured in gallons per hour (GPH), the higher the GPH, the faster the pump can remove water. Look for pumps that offer a GPH rating appropriate for your needs—typically between 800 to 3,000 GPH for pool cover pumps.
- Horsepower (HP): The motor’s horsepower affects how powerful the pump is. A pump with at least 1/6 HP is generally suitable for solid pool covers.
4. Durability and Materials
- Look for pumps made from corrosion-resistant materials, as they will be exposed to water and potential chemicals.
- Stainless steel or high-quality plastic are preferable materials that will last longer.
5. Portability and Storage
- Consider the weight and size of the pump. A lightweight, portable model will make it easier to store and transport when not in use.
6. Ease of Use
- Check for features like an easy-to-use on/off switch, a clear user manual, and simple installation.
- Some pumps come with additional features like a garden hose adapter for easier drainage.
7. Auto Shut-off Feature
- Pumps with a built-in automatic shut-off can prevent damage by shutting down when water levels are low, thereby saving energy and prolonging the motor’s lifespan.
8. Noise Level
- Consider noise levels, especially if you plan to operate the pump near living areas. Look for models designed to operate quietly.
9. Warranty and Support
- A longer warranty can indicate a manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Look for at least a one-year warranty.
- Research customer support options in case you need assistance after your purchase.
10. Budget
- Prices can vary widely based on features and capacity. Set a budget beforehand but remember that investing in a high-quality pump can save you money in repairs down the line.
Additional Tips:
- Read Reviews: Look for customer reviews and ratings to understand real-world performance and reliability.
- Compare Brands: Explore different brands and models to find the best features and prices that suit your needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pool cover pump can save you time, money, and effort in pool maintenance. Assess your individual needs, consider the above factors, and don’t hesitate to invest in a quality pump that will protect your pool cover and ultimately enhance your pool ownership experience.