10 Best Pool Cover Pumps 2026 in the United States

The Little Giant APCP-1700 is a solid choice for anyone looking for an automatic pool cover pump. With a pump capacity of 1/3 HP and a flow rate of 1,745 gallons per hour, it effectively manages water accumulation on pool covers, activating at just 2 inches and shutting off at 1 inch, which is quite handy during seasonal rains. Its automatic operation means you don’t have to frequently check and manually pump out water, adding convenience for busy users.

One of the standout features is its easy maintenance. The pump allows for simple access to the float and air lock, meaning you don't need tools for cleaning, which can save time and effort. The 25-foot power cord offers flexibility in placement, ensuring you can reach an outlet without issues. Its compact and weighted design helps it stay stable on the cover, reducing the chance of it being knocked over.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the 1-inch FNPT discharge and included garden hose adapter are beneficial, the compatibility with hoses may not suit all users, particularly if you need to use a larger hose or different fittings. Additionally, being corded electric limits its portability compared to battery-operated models, which may restrict where you can use it without an extension cord.

The Acquaer 1/3 HP Automatic Pool Cover Pump is designed to quickly remove water, moving up to 2,950 gallons per hour, which is efficient for pools and similar uses like hot tubs or rooftops. It has an automatic on/off switch that activates when water reaches about 2 inches deep and stops after the water is mostly cleared, offering convenience and energy savings.

The pump runs on a standard 115-volt electric power cord with a generous 25-foot length, providing flexibility to plug it in easily. It includes a 3/4-inch hose adapter and a check valve to prevent backflow, making connections to garden hoses or drainage options straightforward. The design features a strainer base that protects the pump and pool cover from debris while stabilizing the unit, plus a built-in temperature control to avoid motor damage if the water runs low. Maintenance is simple since the strainer can be cleaned without tools.

This relatively lightweight pump is backed by a 3-year warranty, enhancing confidence in its durability. It requires access to a power outlet since it is corded, and it cannot be used in areas without electricity. Additionally, a small amount of water (about 3/4 inch) will remain after pumping, which is typical for this pump type. This pump is a solid choice for users seeking an easy-to-use, automatic pool cover pump with reliable performance and good build quality.

The Wayne WPCP250 is a solid choice if you're looking for an automatic pump to keep rainwater and melting snow off your pool cover. Its 1/4 horsepower motor can move up to about 32 gallons per minute and lift water up to 20 feet, which is enough for most residential pool covers. The magnetic float switch turns the pump on and off automatically when water reaches set levels, so you don’t have to monitor it constantly — this makes it very convenient for hassle-free operation.

It runs on a standard 120-volt corded electric power source, meaning you’ll need an outdoor outlet nearby. The included 25-foot pull-to-shore rope helps position the pump easily on your pool cover, and the 3/4-inch hose adapter fits most garden hoses, making setup straightforward. The plastic build keeps the pump lightweight and rust-resistant, though it may not be as rugged as metal-bodied pumps if you expect heavy use or rough handling. The multi-ring suction strainer helps reduce clogging from small debris, which is a nice touch for maintenance ease.

Customers appreciate the pump’s reliable automatic function and energy-efficient design, though some might find the plastic materials less durable over many seasons. The 3-year warranty adds peace of mind. This pump suits pool owners who want a dependable, mostly hands-off solution to protect their pool covers in wet seasons without complicated setup or maintenance.