Pools & water systems / Pumps
Check pump turnover time
Enter pool volume and effective pump flow to see how long one full-volume turnover takes.
Circulation timing
One pool volume
Enter volume litres.
How it works
Put in your numbers
Use your own rates, times and measurements.
See your answer straight away
It works it out as you type.
Copy or print it
Send it on, or keep it with the job.
What it covers: Check how long a pump takes to move one pool volume, or the flow needed to hit a target.
Free to use. No sign-in needed.
How to work out pool pump turnover time
Turnover time is how long your pump takes to move one full pool volume of water. You divide the pool volume by the pump's flow rate. This calculator shows the time for the number of turnovers you choose, or the flow you would need to hit a target time.
- Enter the pool volume and choose the volume unit. If you do not know the volume, use the pool volume calculator first.
- Enter the pump flow and choose the flow unit. Use the effective flow through your installed system if you know it, not just the rating on the box.
- Choose how many turnovers you want to compare.
- Read the time for one pool volume at the flow you entered. The calculator divides the volume by the flow to get this.
- If you have a time in mind, enter it as target hours. The calculator shows the flow needed to finish the turnovers in that time.
Tips and common mistakes
- A pump's real flow is usually lower than its rated flow, because pipes, fittings and the filter all slow it down. Use a flow meter reading if you have one.
- Double check the volume and flow units. A mix-up between litres and gallons gives a badly wrong answer.
- Turnover time is not a recommended daily run time. Run times depend on the pool, how it is used, the weather and the equipment.
- Clean the filter before you judge a pump's performance. A clogged filter can make a good pump look weak.
Questions
How do I calculate pool turnover rate?
Divide the pool volume by the pump flow rate in matching units. As an illustration only, 50,000 litres at 200 litres per minute is 250 minutes, or just over 4 hours for one turnover. The calculator does this for you.
How long should I run my pool pump each day?
There is no single answer, because it depends on the pool size, pump, filter, weather, how much the pool is used and what the equipment maker recommends. Turnover time helps you understand circulation, but it is not a daily run time on its own. Check the equipment instructions and watch your water test results.
What size pump do I need for my pool?
Decide how many turnovers you want in a set number of hours, then work out the flow needed to do that. Enter a target time in the calculator to see the flow required. A pool professional should also check the pump suits your pipes, filter and other equipment.
How do I find my pool pump's flow rate?
The most accurate way is a flow meter fitted to the system. The pump's label or manual gives a rated flow, but real flow is usually lower once pipes and the filter are connected. If you only have the rated figure, treat the turnover time as a best case.
What does pool turnover mean?
One turnover means a volume of water equal to the whole pool has passed through the pump. It does not mean every drop has been filtered, because filtered water mixes back into the pool. It is a simple way to compare circulation between pools and pumps.
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