Flow Rate
The volume of water the pump moves per minute — a key factor in turnover rate.
Definition
Flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM) and represents how much water the pump circulates through the filtration system. The required flow rate for adequate filtration is calculated from pool volume divided by the target turnover time. Pump flow rate in real systems is lower than the rated maximum because of pipe resistance, filter restriction, and other head pressure losses. Variable speed pumps can be programmed to run at different flow rates at different times of day, reducing energy consumption while maintaining adequate filtration.
Quick Facts
- Ideal Range
- N/A (calculated from pool volume and target turnover)
- Units
- GPM
- Also Known As
- GPM, gallons per minute, pump flow, flow rate
Relationships
Outgoing Relationships
- related to → Pool Pump
- related to → Turnover Time
Incoming Relationships
- related to ← Pool Pump