Florida Pool Pumps and Storm Dewatering: What to Know Before Hurricane Season

Two pump questions come up for Florida homeowners: which pool pump to buy, and what to have ready if storm water arrives. This guide covers both at a high level.

Part 1: Choosing a pool pump

Why variable speed

A variable-speed pump can run slowly for long periods and speed up only when needed. The U.S. Department of Energy's Building America measure guide says a variable-speed pump can reduce pool pump energy use by 50% to 75% (the same document also gives 30% to 70% elsewhere, so treat savings as a range). It explains why: halving pump speed halves flow but cuts power to about one-eighth, so the approach is "run it slower and run it longer."

An ENERGY STAR contractor Q&A reports that one Florida contractor claims savings of at least $350 per year, up to $1,000 in some cases. That is one contractor's experience, not independent testing, so your savings will depend on your pool, your electric rate and how you run the pump.

Federal efficiency rules

Jandy's summary of the Department of Energy rule says dedicated-purpose pool pumps manufactured in or imported into the U.S. must meet minimum efficiency standards effective July 19, 2021, for pumps up to 2.5 hydraulic horsepower, with some exemptions. The page does not say existing pumps must be replaced. Check with your pool professional on how the rule affects replacement options for your equipment.

Sizing basics

The DOE guide gives a way to start:

Pool volume in gallons is length x width x depth (feet) x 7.48.
Minimum flow is pool volume divided by 1,440, which is one turnover in 24 hours.
Turnover should not be faster than six hours in normal operation.
Most skimmers need about 25 gpm to work well.

The guide's caution is worth repeating: saving energy should not come at the expense of sanitation and water clarity. Pressure-side cleaners need higher speed, and filtering mostly works at low speed, so ask your installer for a schedule that fits your equipment.

Safety points

Some variable-speed pumps can move more water than the old pump, which can raise suction entrapment risk. Flow limits should be programmed, especially with older equipment (DOE guide).
ENERGY STAR's Q&A notes not every variable-speed model has a built-in Safety Vacuum Release System, so check for it.
A broken or missing drain cover is a serious hazard and should be replaced right away.
Installation, wiring and any electrical work belong to a licensed pool or electrical professional.

Part 2: Before hurricane season, sump and dewatering pumps

Know what each pump does

United Rentals lists the main types used after flooding:

Electric submersible pumps sit underwater and suit ditches and basements.
Trash pumps handle small amounts of water carrying stones, leaves, mud or other solids.
High-volume pumps move water over short distances; high-head pumps suit long distances or elevation changes.

Cat Rentals notes that "trash-rated" means a pump can pass solids and debris without clogging.

Plan power before the storm

Flooding often coincides with power outages, and rental generators can be scarce after a major storm, says United Rentals. FLASH, a flood-mitigation nonprofit, suggests a sump pump with battery backup in basements, and a generator to power the pump for an extended period after a flood. Many Florida homes have no basement, so this applies mainly to homes with sumps, crawl spaces or low pits. Generator hookups and transfer switches must be installed by a licensed electrician. Never run a generator indoors.

Do it now

Test the pump by pouring water into the pit; it should switch on.
Clear the discharge route so water has somewhere to go.
Decide in advance whether you will own or rent pumps and who to call. United Rentals advises partnering with a vendor that has large dewatering inventory.
Keep a written list of model numbers and phone numbers.
Do not enter floodwater. It can electrocute and may contain sewage and chemicals.

See equipment in person

The International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo runs November 17-19, 2026 in New Orleans.

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General information only. Hire licensed professionals for pool equipment, electrical and generator work.