What pump do you need for a pool waterfall?
Your waterfall is only as good as the water feeding it. Here's how to match a pump to your feature without oversizing.
Every waterfall has a recommended flow rate, usually listed in gallons per minute (GPM). Sheer descents want 10–15 GPM per foot of width; rock falls and scuppers vary by design but the spec is always in the product description.
If your existing pool pump has spare capacity, a simple diverter valve can feed a small spillway. For anything 24 in or wider, a dedicated pump is the reliable choice — it lets you run the waterfall on its own schedule without affecting filtration.
Don't oversize. Too much flow over a sheer descent turns the smooth sheet into a noisy splash. Match the pump to the feature's rated flow at your plumbing's head height, and use a valve to fine-tune.
Find waterfall kits, spillways, scuppers and installation options for your pool at PoolWaterFountain.com. We ship throughout the United States and can help you compare styles and sizes for your project.