The best submersible pump to drain a pool depends on how much water you need to move and whether you want to drain a pool cover, a hot tub, or a larger pool. The models below are mainly compact cover and utility pumps, so they’re better suited to standing water or smaller draining jobs than to quickly emptying a full-size swimming pool. Compare flow claims carefully: hose size, lift height, and setup can all affect real-world pumping speed.
| Product | Best for | Listed flow | Automatic operation | Hose and cord |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FineBud Submersible Water Pump | Adjustable flow and included hose | Up to 950 GPH | Not specified | 10-ft hose; cord length not specified |
| Little Giant APCP-1700 | Automatic pool-cover pumping | 1,700 GPH at 1-ft lift | Yes | Garden-hose adapter; 25-ft cord |
| Cleartide Smart Automatic Pump | Automatic cover and utility use | 2790 GPH claimed at 30-ft lift | Yes, with manual mode | Adapters included; 25-ft cord |
| LHUKSGF Automatic Pool Cover Pump | Automatic water removal with a low-profile base | Up to 1,500 GPH without a garden hose | Yes | Hose not included; 25-ft cord |
| FIDISP Pool Cover Pump | Manual pumping with a long included hose | 850 GPH at 10.5-ft lift | No | 20-ft hose; 25-ft cord |
Table of Contents
Our Picks: Best Submersible Pump To Drain Pool reviews
FineBud Submersible Water Pump: Best for Adjustable Flow
The FineBud is a compact utility pump for removing water from pool covers, hot tubs, ponds, and other small areas. Its listed flow rate is up to 950 gallons per hour, and a flow valve lets you adjust output to suit the job. That control can be useful when you want a gentler flow or need to manage how quickly water is sent through the discharge hose.
The package includes a 10-foot, 1/2-inch hose and three adapters. Its ABS housing, carry handle, and compact shape make it easier to move and store than a larger pump. The product description also mentions a temperature-control feature intended to help protect the pump if it runs dry. Treat that as a safeguard, not a reason to leave the pump unattended; follow the instructions and disconnect it when the job is done.
This is a practical choice for water on a cover, a hot tub, or a smaller drainage task. Its flow claim is lower than those listed for several other picks, and the supplied information does not state the cord length or describe an automatic water-level switch. For a full-size pool, it may take too long to remove a large volume of water.
Pros:
- Adjustable flow valve
- Includes a 10-foot hose and three adapters
- Compact design with a carrying handle
- Suitable for several household water-removal tasks
Cons:
- Lower listed flow than several alternatives
- Automatic operation and cord length are not specified
Verdict: Choose the FineBud if you want an adjustable, portable pump with a hose included for covers, hot tubs, and smaller jobs.
Little Giant APCP-1700: Best for Automatic Cover Pumping
The Little Giant APCP-1700 is designed to remove water from pool covers, boat covers, and rooftops. An integrated float switch turns the pump on when water reaches about 2 inches and shuts it off when the level falls to about 1 inch. That automatic cycle is useful for cover maintenance because you do not have to switch the pump on and off as the water level changes.
The specifications list a flow rate of 1,700 gallons per hour at a 1-foot lift, a 25-foot power cord, and a 3/4-inch garden-hose adapter. Its removable intake screen provides access for cleaning and maintenance, while the weighted compact design is intended to help it stay in place. The pump is rated at 1/3 horsepower.
This model is purpose-built for cover water, not presented as a fast way to drain an entire swimming pool. Its float-controlled shutoff leaves about an inch of water, so you may need another method to remove the last bit. The supplied listing indicates that availability can vary, so check the product page before deciding.
Pros:
- Automatic float switch starts and stops pumping by water level
- 25-foot cord offers reach for many setups
- Garden-hose adapter is included
- Removable intake screen supports cleaning
Cons:
- Designed for covers and similar surfaces, not fast whole-pool draining
- Shuts off with about 1 inch of water remaining
Verdict: The Little Giant is a good fit if you want a dedicated cover pump that cycles automatically instead of requiring constant attention.
Cleartide Smart Automatic Pump: Best for Flexible Cover and Utility Use
The Cleartide combines a pool-cover pump with a submersible utility pump. Its quick-detach base is designed to let you switch between those setups, so it can serve more than one water-removal purpose. The product description claims a 1/3-horsepower motor and a maximum flow of 2,790 gallons per hour at a 30-foot lift. Flow specifications are not directly comparable across pumps, so actual output will depend on the hose, lift, and installation.
It offers automatic and manual modes. In automatic mode, it starts at about 1 1/2 inches of water and stops at about 2/5 inch; manual mode runs when plugged in without the stated minimum water level. The description also lists dry-run, overheat, and overload protection, plus airlock-release and debris-filtering features. A 25-foot cord, 25-foot rope, elbow fitting, and two adapters are included.
The Cleartide stands out for its range of modes and built-in protections, but those extra features do not make it a substitute for a high-capacity pool-drainage system. Its automatic mode still needs water to reach its start level, while manual mode requires closer attention. Check the included instructions for setup and safe operation.
Pros:
- Can be configured for cover pumping or utility use
- Automatic and manual operating modes
- Includes a 25-foot cord, rope, and adapters
- Product description lists several protective and airlock features
Cons:
- Automatic mode requires water to reach its activation depth
- Listed flow figures may not match output in every hose and lift setup
Verdict: Pick the Cleartide if you value flexible setup and automatic features for cover water and other utility jobs.
LHUKSGF Automatic Pool Cover Pump: Best for Hands-Off Water-Level Control
The LHUKSGF is an automatic submersible pump intended for pool covers and other shallow water-removal jobs. Its water-level detection system starts pumping at about 1 1/2 inches and stops below about 2/5 inch. After stopping, it checks for rising water again, which can help manage water that collects over time without needing a float switch.
The pump is listed at up to 1,500 gallons per hour when it is not connected to a garden hose. Its bottom-suction design is stated to remove water down to about 3/4 inch. A strainer base helps keep debris away from the intake and is designed for tool-free cleaning. The package includes a 25-foot power cord, adapters, and a mesh bag, but no hose.
That missing hose is an important detail: you will need to provide a compatible discharge hose for your setup. Its stated flow rate is also given without a garden hose, so expect the connected setup to affect performance. The repeated detection cycle may involve a delay before the pump restarts as the water rises.
Pros:
- Automatic water-level sensing
- Bottom suction is listed to leave about 3/4 inch of water
- Strainer base can be cleaned without tools
- Includes a 25-foot cord and mesh bag
Cons:
- Hose is not included
- Listed flow is specified without a garden hose attached
Verdict: Choose the LHUKSGF if you want automatic cover-water control and are comfortable supplying your own hose.
FIDISP Pool Cover Pump: Best Manual Pump with a Long Hose
The FIDISP is a manual pump with an included 20-foot, 1/2-inch drain hose. Its listed flow rate is 850 gallons per hour at a 10.5-foot lift. It also comes with multiple adapters, including a garden-hose adapter, and a filter bag intended to help keep debris out of the pump.
A wide base is designed to help with stability and water intake, and the product description says the pump can remove water down to about 0.4 inch. It has a 25-foot power cord and temperature control intended to help prevent overheating. Unlike the automatic models here, it does not shut off on its own. The manufacturer specifically advises disconnecting power when pumping is complete, so you will need to monitor it.
The included hose and low stated suction depth are useful for pool covers, hot tubs, and other shallow-water jobs. However, the manual operation makes it less convenient for ongoing cover maintenance. Its 850 GPH rating is also lower than the other listed flow claims, and it should not be treated as a quick whole-pool drainage solution.
Pros:
- Includes a 20-foot hose and several adapters
- Listed to remove water down to about 0.4 inch
- 25-foot power cord
- Filter bag helps limit debris entering the pump
Cons:
- No automatic shutoff; it must be monitored and unplugged
- Lower listed flow than the other options here
Verdict: The FIDISP is a sensible option if you want a hose included and do not mind supervising the pump throughout use.
How to Choose a Submersible Pump for Pool Drainage
Decide how much water you need to remove
A pump for a few inches of water on a pool cover has a different job from a pump intended to drain a large swimming pool. These picks are compact cover and utility pumps. For a full-size pool, confirm that the pump is designed for that volume and that its expected pumping time is acceptable. A dedicated pool pump or professional service may be more suitable for a large drainage job.
Compare flow rates with the lift and hose setup
Gallons per hour is useful for comparing pumps, but the number alone does not tell the whole story. A long hose, a smaller hose diameter, or a high discharge point can reduce flow. Check the conditions attached to each rating, such as the lift height, and make sure the discharge connection fits the hose you plan to use.
Choose automatic or manual operation
An automatic pump can start and stop as water reaches set levels, which is convenient for pool-cover maintenance. Check both the activation depth and the shutoff depth, since a pump may leave some water behind. A manual pump gives you direct control but needs supervision, especially if it lacks an automatic shutoff.
Check how much water remains after pumping
Each pump has a limit to how shallow a puddle it can handle. If you want to clear a cover as much as possible, compare the stated residual water depth. A small amount may still remain and require a separate method to remove it. Do not assume a pump will run safely when dry unless its instructions specifically explain how to operate it.
Confirm the hose, adapters, and cord length
Some pumps include a discharge hose, while others provide adapters but expect you to supply the hose. Check the hose diameter, adapter type, and cord length before buying. Keep electrical connections dry, follow the pump’s instructions, and use an appropriately protected power source for outdoor operation.
Consider debris and maintenance
Leaves, dirt, and other debris can obstruct an intake. A strainer, removable screen, or filter bag can help, but it still needs periodic cleaning. If your cover collects a lot of debris, choose a design with an accessible intake and clear maintenance instructions.
Think carefully before draining an entire pool
Draining a pool can affect its structure and may be restricted by local rules. Before removing a large volume of water, check the pool manufacturer’s guidance and local requirements, or consult a pool professional. Never leave a running pump unattended unless its instructions support that use, and keep people out of the water while electrical equipment is in operation.
FAQs
Can these pumps drain a full-size swimming pool?
They are mainly described as pool-cover and utility pumps. They can move water, but the supplied information does not establish that any of them is intended to quickly drain a full-size pool. Check the pump’s intended use and capacity before starting a large drainage job.
Which pump listed here has automatic shutoff?
The Little Giant, Cleartide, and LHUKSGF models describe automatic water-level operation. The FIDISP is manual and must be unplugged when pumping is complete. The FineBud description does not specify an automatic water-level switch.
Do these pumps include a hose?
The FineBud includes a 10-foot hose, and the FIDISP includes a 20-foot hose. The Cleartide includes adapters and an elbow fitting, while the Little Giant includes a garden-hose adapter. The LHUKSGF listing says the hose is not included.
Will a pump remove every last drop of water?
No. Each model has a minimum water depth at which it can pump, and automatic pumps may stop with some water remaining. Check the stated suction depth or shutoff level and plan on removing any leftover water separately if needed.
Can I use a pool-cover pump for a hot tub?
Some of these models are described for hot tubs or utility use, including the FineBud and FIDISP. Check the individual instructions and hose setup before using a pump for a hot tub. Do not use electrical equipment in water where people are present.
How do I keep a submersible pump from clogging?
Remove leaves and larger debris from the water where possible, and clean the pump’s strainer, screen, or filter bag as directed. Unplug the pump before inspecting or cleaning it, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.
Final Recommendation
For automatic pool-cover maintenance, the Little Giant and LHUKSGF offer water-level control, while the Cleartide adds manual operation and a utility-pump setup. The FineBud is a compact choice with adjustable flow and a hose included. The FIDISP suits buyers who want a longer included hose and are willing to supervise pumping. For draining a whole pool, verify the pump’s capacity and consult pool-specific guidance before choosing one of these smaller pumps.
