How wide should my pool waterfall be?

A good rule is about 1 foot of waterfall width for every 5 feet of pool length — for example a 3–4 ft sheer descent for a 16–20 ft pool.

How much flow does a pool waterfall need?

Sheer descents need roughly 15 GPM per foot of width for a clean sheet of water. Rain curtains need 20–25 GPM per foot.

Most pool waterfalls look and sound best with a 12–36 inch drop. Higher drops need more flow to keep the sheet from breaking up.

Pick the right waterfall width, drop height and pump flow for your pool. Use the chart below, then shop waterfalls that fit.

Pool size	Waterfall width	Flow needed	Pump
Plunge / spa (under 12 ft)	1–2 ft	15–30 GPM	Existing pump often enough
Small (12–16 ft)	2–3 ft	30–45 GPM	Existing pump or 0.75 HP
Medium (16–20 ft)	3–4 ft	45–60 GPM	1 HP dedicated
Large (20–30 ft)	4–6 ft	60–90 GPM	1.5 HP dedicated
Extra large (30 ft+)	6–12 ft or multiple units	90–180 GPM	2 HP+ or variable speed

Measure the raised wall or deck edge where the waterfall will sit. Leave at least 6 inches on each side.

Plan about 15 GPM per foot for sheer descents and 20–25 GPM per foot for rain curtains.

12–36 inches gives the best look and sound. Taller drops need extra flow.

How wide should my pool waterfall be?: A good rule is about 1 foot of waterfall width for every 5 feet of pool length — for example a 3–4 ft sheer descent for a 16–20 ft pool.
How much flow does a pool waterfall need?: Sheer descents need roughly 15 GPM per foot of width for a clean sheet of water. Rain curtains need 20–25 GPM per foot.
What drop height is best?: Most pool waterfalls look and sound best with a 12–36 inch drop. Higher drops need more flow to keep the sheet from breaking up.