FOTING 1HP Pool Drain Pump Review for Above Ground Pools (4600 GPH)

Looking for a pool drain pump for an above ground pool that can remove water quickly and efficiently? The FOTING 1HP submersible sump pump is a manual-start utility pump rated at up to 4,600 GPH at shallow head, with about 31 ft max vertical lift, a 110–120V / 1HP motor, and a 10 ft power cord. It is a strong fit for fast bulk draining, but it is not the same as an automatic unattended sump pump because this model is manual-start only.

Quick Verdict: Is the FOTING 1HP Worth It?

If you want a portable pump for fast manual draining, this one makes sense. It is best for above-ground pool draining, pool cover water removal, and emergency water cleanup when you can supervise the pump. It is not ideal if you want a set-it-and-forget-it automatic cover pump, because this model does not have a float switch.

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FOTING 1HP Specs at a Glance

Key Specs:

• Flow: up to 4,600 GPH at shallow head

• Max vertical lift: about 31 ft

• Power: 1 HP / 110–120V AC

• Cord length: 10 ft

• Minimum suction/drain level: about 1/5-inch above the surface

• Design: portable thermoplastic utility pump

• Operation: manual-start only, no built-in float switch

For the best flow, use the largest compatible discharge hose and keep the run as short and straight as possible. The live review page also notes that some users get better results with a larger 1.5-inch hose.

What the FOTING 1HP Is Best For

Draining an Above-Ground Pool

This pump is a good choice when you need to move a lot of water quickly from an above-ground pool and you are able to supervise the job.

Clearing Water from a Winter Pool Cover

It also works well for standing water on winter covers, especially when you want a high-flow solution instead of a slow siphon.

Emergency Water Removal

Use it for temporary water removal jobs such as flooded spots, shallow standing water, or quick utility draining.

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FOTING 1HP vs Little Giant APCP-1700 vs Blue Wave Non-Electric Siphon Pump

FOTING 1HP (Best for Fast Manual Bulk Draining)

The FOTING is the best fit when speed matters and you are happy to supervise the pump. It is manual-start only, so it works more like a fast utility tool than an automatic cover pump.

Little Giant APCP-1700 (Best for Automatic Cover Drainage)

The Little Giant APCP-1700 is the better option if you want an automatic pump that sits on the cover and starts on its own when water collects. It uses a float switch and is purpose-built for cover drainage.

Compare the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Cover Pump

Blue Wave Non-Electric Siphon Pump (Best for No-Power Situations)

The Blue Wave non-electric siphon pump is the simplest choice if you do not want to use electricity at all. It is a manual siphon-based solution that is slower than a powered pump, but it is quiet and requires no plug.

See the Blue Wave No-Power Alternative

Choose the FOTING 1HP if you want the fastest manual water removal. Choose the Little Giant APCP-1700 if you want automatic cover drainage and less babysitting. Choose the Blue Wave siphon pump if you want a no-power, low-tech option that is simple and reliable.

Setup, Hose Size, and Safety Tips

Use the Largest Compatible Discharge Hose

A larger hose can help this pump move water more efficiently, so use the biggest hose size that fits the included adapters and your discharge setup.

Keep the Run Short and Straight

Avoid long hose runs, sharp bends, and unnecessary elevation changes. That helps preserve flow and keeps the pump from working harder than it needs to.

Supervise the Pump During Operation

Because this model is manual-start only and does not shut itself off with a float switch, it should be used as a supervised drain tool rather than an unattended permanent pump.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Very strong advertised flow for a budget utility pump

• Portable and easy to move

• Useful for pool draining, cover water, and quick cleanup jobs

• Multiple hose connections make it flexible for different setups

Cons

• Manual-start only, so it is not ideal for unattended use

• Not a true automatic cover pump

• Hose size and routing matter a lot for performance

• Better as an occasional utility tool than a permanent sump solution

FAQs About the FOTING 1HP Sump Pump

Is this pump good for draining an above-ground pool?

Yes. It is a strong fit for fast manual draining when you can supervise the pump and route the discharge properly.

Does it have an automatic float switch?

No. This model is manual-start only, so it does not act like an automatic unattended sump pump.

What hose size works best?

Use the largest compatible discharge hose you can connect, and keep the hose run as short and straight as possible for better flow. Some users report improved results with a larger hose.

Is it good for winter cover water?

Yes. It is a practical option for removing standing water from a winter pool cover, especially if you want fast drainage rather than a slow siphon.

Is it better than a pool cover pump?

Not always. If you want automatic cover drainage, the Little Giant APCP-1700 is a better fit. If you want no electricity, the Blue Wave siphon pump is the simplest option. If you want fast manual bulk draining, the FOTING is the stronger pick.

Related Guides and Alternatives

• Little Giant APCP-1700 Pool Cover Pump — automatic cover drainage option.

• Blue Wave Non-Electric Siphon Pump — no-power alternative for slow, simple draining.

• Filtration & Pumps — broader pool equipment guide.

• Accessories Hub — explore more pool add-ons and seasonal gear.