1. What is GPM in Pool Pumps?

GPM (Gallons Per Minute) is a measure of flow rate that indicates how many gallons of water a pool pump can move per minute. It's crucial for determining the right pump size for your pool.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the GPM formula:

Where:

• Pool Volume — Total water capacity of your pool in gallons
• Turnover Time — Desired time to circulate the entire pool volume (typically 6-8 hours)
• 60 — Conversion factor from hours to minutes

Explanation: The formula calculates the required flow rate to completely circulate your pool's water within the specified turnover time.

3. Importance of Proper GPM Calculation

Details: Correct GPM calculation ensures your pool pump is properly sized - too small won't circulate water effectively, while too large wastes energy and may damage filters.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Measure your pool's exact volume or use standard calculations for pool shapes
• Standard turnover time is 6-8 hours for residential pools
• Commercial pools typically require faster turnover (2-4 hours)
• All values must be positive numbers

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the ideal turnover time for a pool?
A: Residential pools typically aim for 6-8 hours, while commercial pools need 2-4 hours for proper sanitation.

Q2: How do I calculate my pool's volume?
A: For rectangular pools: Length × Width × Average Depth × 7.5. For circular pools: Radius² × 3.14 × Average Depth × 7.5.

Q3: What if my calculated GPM doesn't match standard pump sizes?
A: Choose the next higher pump size to ensure adequate circulation.

Q4: Does GPM affect filter performance?
A: Yes, filters have maximum GPM ratings. Exceeding these can reduce filtration efficiency.

Q5: How often should I run my pool pump?
A: Typically 8-12 hours daily, but depends on pool size, usage, and environmental factors.