Swimming Pool Pumps, Drains And The Danger Of Suction

The suction from your spa or pool drain may be a hidden danger in your pool or spa that is so dangerous it could cost a life. Newer pool pumps should have a safety feature that "breaks suction" when the drain is blocked. However, you should verify that your pool or spa has this feature by checking with the manufacturer. If you do not have a pump that will automatically turn itself off when blocked, replace it immediately.

Why is the suction from your pool pump dangerous?

It is the the underwater intakes or "drains" that can cause a drowning. The power of suction when the child or adult 'seals' the drain is so great that you can not push off from the pool and break it. That means you can not get another breath and unless the pool pump is turned off by someone else in time, you will drown. Sealing it is as easy as sitting on it, or covering it in any way completely with their body.

A swimming pool pump is an electrically operated pump which is responsible for recirculating the water from the swimming pool. They are readily available in different sizes and an effective pool pump can ensure the removal of debris that is present in the surface of the pool by letting them drawn into the skimmer.

The pump is considered to be the heart of the pool. For, the pool cannot run without the pool pump. The pool pump basically works with the filtration system of your swimming pool with the purpose of keeping the pool free from all types of debris. The pool pump works by pulling the content of water out of the pool through the help of a skimmer basket and then to the pool's filtering system and then return the water into the pool.

It is believed that swimming pool pump tends to run for a much longer time than the actual need for them to run. It is highly recommended that you use a small and highly efficient pool pump. Moderate operation can result in low electricity bills, which is a major cause of concern for many people who use swimming pools during summer. The installation of a timer can be beneficial in the recording and controlling of the cycling of the pool pump.

One can use pool chemicals in the water that resides in the pool and may opt for scrubbing of the walls of the pool for the removal of the debris. This is considered as a better option than recirculating the content of water in the pool for longer durations.

Some tips and precautions:
  • Make sure your pump system has a failsafe to turn off when the intake is blocked.
  • Use small and efficient pool pumps for the purpose of saving electricity.
  • Take all steps to ensure regular maintenance of the pool pump.
  • Reduce the running time of the pool pump.
  • Lower the filtration time to a maximum of 6 hours per day.
  • Install a timer to record and control the cycling of the pool pump.

Always make sure that the pool pump you are slated to buy comes out good with your present filtering system of the pool. Take some time out to record the levels of chemicals and clarity of the water residing in the surface of the pool to ensure a smooth functioning of the swimming pool and pool pump. Do not run the pool pump when there is no actual need. Limit the number of hours the pool pump is in action and you would yourself witness a significant decline in the level of your electricity bills. And most importantly, make sure your pump has a failsafe to turn off if ever the intake is 'sealed' to prevent danger to you and your loved ones.