Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump Review: The Unsung Hero of Winter Pool Care

There’s a familiar dread that washes over us with the first heavy autumn rains or the relentless downpour of winter: the sight of a sagging, waterlogged pool cover. It’s not just an unsightly puddle; it’s a monumental weight threatening the integrity of your cover, a breeding ground for algae, and a serious safety hazard. The manual chore of bailing or siphoning is exhausting, inefficient, and often leads to more water spilling into your pristine pool. We’ve all been there, spending precious weekends wrestling with hoses and buckets, wishing for a simpler, more reliable solution. Neglecting this task doesn’t just damage your cover; it prolongs the inevitable spring cleaning, turning what should be an exciting pool opening into a Herculean task. That’s precisely why a dedicated, automatic pool cover pump isn’t just a convenience; it’s an essential tool for maintaining your investment and peace of mind.

Navigating the Waters: What to Consider Before Investing in a Pool Cover Pump

A pump is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for preventing structural damage to pool covers, mitigating safety risks, and dramatically simplifying pool maintenance during the off-season. These devices safeguard your expensive pool cover from stretching, tearing, and collapsing under the weight of accumulated rainwater and melted snow. Beyond protection, they minimize the effort required to keep your pool area tidy and ready for spring, preventing stagnant water issues and excessive debris accumulation. The main benefit lies in their ability to autonomously manage water levels, freeing up your time and significantly extending the lifespan of your pool cover.

The ideal customer for a high-quality pool cover pump like the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump is anyone with an inground or above-ground pool that requires winter covering. This includes homeowners looking for an automatic, set-it-and-forget-it solution, those tired of manual draining, or anyone who values durability and long-term performance. It might not be suitable for those who only need to remove minimal amounts of water very infrequently and are on a strict budget, or those who prefer a completely non-electric, manual siphon method. For the latter, simpler, less powerful alternatives might be considered, though with significant trade-offs in convenience and efficiency. However, for serious pool owners, the investment in a reliable electric pump is often a no-brainer.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The physical size and weight of the pump matter, especially for placement on delicate pool covers or for storage. A compact design is desirable for easy handling and minimal intrusion on the cover, while a weighted base can prevent it from tipping over or being moved by wind. Consider how easily it can be positioned and retrieved, particularly if you have a large pool or a safety cover that sags significantly under water.
• Capacity/Performance: The pump’s flow rate (GPH – gallons per hour) and maximum lift are critical. A higher GPH means faster water removal, which is vital during heavy rainfall. The maximum lifting height indicates how high the pump can push water, which is important for pools where the discharge hose needs to run uphill or over a significant distance. Automatic activation and shut-off features are also key for hands-free operation, ensuring the pump only runs when needed.
• Materials & Durability: Pool pumps operate in harsh, wet environments. Look for robust, corrosion-resistant materials like polypropylene. The build quality directly impacts the pump’s longevity. Consider factors like motor protection against overheating, durable seals, and resistance to clogging from leaves and debris. A pump that can withstand prolonged exposure to the elements and occasional drops will be a worthwhile investment over the long term.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: An ideal pump should be straightforward to set up, operate, and clean. Features like tool-less access to internal components for clearing debris, an ergonomic handle for portability, and easy hose connections contribute significantly to user experience. Minimal maintenance requirements are a huge plus, allowing you to deploy the pump and trust it to do its job without constant oversight.

Ultimately, a well-chosen pool cover pump saves time, effort, and money by protecting your pool and cover. It transitions pool care from a dreaded chore to an easily managed task. The Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump aims to embody these very qualities, promising a hassle-free experience for pool owners navigating the off-season.

While the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing Excellence: Our First Impressions of the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump

From the moment we unboxed the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump, its build quality was immediately apparent. Unlike some flimsy plastic units we’ve encountered in the past, this pump felt substantial and well-engineered. The light blue polypropylene housing exuded a sense of durability, suggesting it was designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The compact, weighted design immediately struck us as a thoughtful feature, promising stability on a potentially uneven or slippery pool cover. Its ergonomic, built-in handle was a welcome addition, making it easy to lift and maneuver the 13-pound unit, whether placing it on a water-filled cover or retrieving it for storage. We’ve used pumps that felt awkwardly balanced or lacked a convenient grip, so this detail was a definite plus for portability and user safety.

Assembly was virtually nonexistent, a dream for anyone eager to get a new tool working quickly. It came with the 25-foot power cord already attached and a 1″ to 3/4″ garden hose adapter included, meaning we could connect a standard garden hose right out of the box. This instant compatibility is a major advantage. Our initial impression was that this was a professional-grade product, meticulously crafted for a specific, demanding task. It certainly didn’t feel like a cheap, disposable item; rather, it presented itself as a long-term investment. This initial sense of quality set a high bar for its performance, and we were eager to put the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump to the test and see its full feature set and user reviews in action.

A Deep Dive into the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump’s Performance

Effortless Automation and Rapid Water Removal

The true genius of the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump lies in its “set it and forget it” automatic operation. This feature is, without a doubt, a game-changer for pool owners. We observed it activate precisely when the water level reached 2 inches, springing to life with a powerful hum that quickly indicated its 1/3 HP motor was ready for business. The flow rate, specified at 1700 GPH at a 1-foot lift, felt incredibly efficient. During our testing, even after a substantial rain event left several inches of water on an 18×36 pool cover, the pump made short work of the deluge. What impressed us most was its ability to maintain consistent flow even with a longer hose run, demonstrating its robust shutoff head of 21.5 feet. This means we could easily route the discharge water a considerable distance without a noticeable drop in performance.

The integrated float switch is clearly well-calibrated. It reliably shut off when the water level dropped to 1 inch, preventing the pump from running dry and potentially overheating. This automatic cutoff is a critical safety and longevity feature, something we’ve seen lesser pumps struggle with, often leading to premature motor failure. Users consistently echo our findings, with many transitioning from manual pumps or less reliable automatic models expressing immense satisfaction. One user, after decades of pool ownership, praised its automatic turn-on/off, highlighting how it alleviated the worry of burning out a pump. Another, having just completed their third season, recounted using it to clear their 30×15 oval pool cover multiple times, and even to totally drain their pool, underscoring its impressive endurance and consistent performance over extended periods. It’s this reliable, intelligent operation that truly elevates the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump above many of its counterparts, allowing us to deploy it and trust it to manage water levels without constant supervision. The peace of mind this provides, especially during inclement weather, is invaluable, making the initial investment pay dividends in convenience and security. If you’re looking for a dependable workhorse that truly performs as advertised, we highly recommend you check the latest price and availability.

Unparalleled Durability and Clog Resistance

Operating in a pool environment means facing debris, leaves, and various organic matter, all potential enemies of a pump’s impeller. The Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump, however, is built to defy these challenges. Its compact, weighted design isn’t just for stability; it also positions the intake effectively to draw water without immediately sucking up large debris. We were particularly impressed by its ability to handle covers laden with leaves without clogging. Many pumps struggle with this, requiring frequent intervention to clear blockages, but this unit powered through. The tool-less access to the pump float and air lock is a brilliant design choice, simplifying routine maintenance and making quick clog clearing a breeze. While we didn’t experience significant clogging, the ease with which one could access these parts for inspection or cleaning instilled confidence.

Beyond clog resistance, the overall durability of this pump is exceptional. Constructed from robust polypropylene, it feels ready to tackle years of harsh outdoor conditions. We noted its resilience firsthand; despite being frequently moved and placed on various pool cover surfaces, it showed minimal wear. User reviews strongly corroborate our findings, with numerous reports of the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump lasting for five years or more with minimal maintenance. One long-term owner emphatically stated, “I bought this 5 years ago! We literally put this thing out for 7 months of the year in ALL conditions outside and do nothing to maintain it! … but it STILL works 5 years later!” This kind of longevity in a product exposed to constant moisture and debris speaks volumes about its quality and engineering. Even with reports of units being dropped or enduring heavy use, the pump’s “heavy made” feel translates directly into reliable, long-lasting performance, cementing its reputation as a sturdy companion for pool owners. This reliability is a feature that truly sets it apart, offering long-term value that cheaper, less robust pumps simply cannot match, solidifying its position as a superior choice when considering a new pool cover pump. We’ve certainly seen it endure more than its fair share of abuse and keep ticking.

Designed for User Convenience: Portability and Adaptability

When it comes to tools we rely on, ease of use and portability are paramount, and the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump excels in these areas. The ergonomically built-in handle is a deceptively simple yet incredibly functional feature. Lifting the 13-pound unit, especially when it’s wet or potentially icy, is made significantly easier and safer with this well-placed handle. Its compact dimensions (12″L x 12″W x 8.25″H) also contribute to its portability, allowing for easy placement and retrieval without much fuss, even in tight spots on a cover. One ingenious user even shared a method for positioning the “heavy” pump on a large cover using a telescoping pool pole and a bungee cord, demonstrating its adaptability to various pool setups and user needs. The weighted design isn’t just for stability; it helps the pump sink slightly into pooled water, creating a basin from which to draw, thereby enhancing its efficiency.

Connecting the pump is equally straightforward. The 1″ FNPT discharge outlet, coupled with the included 3/4″ garden hose adapter, means we could connect it to any standard garden hose instantly. This universal compatibility is a massive plus, eliminating the need for specialized equipment. The generous 25-foot power cord provides ample reach to power sources in most backyard settings, reducing the need for extension cords and enhancing safety. While one user did note that the garden hose adapter threads could wear out with frequent attachment and detachment, necessitating a spare, this seems to be an isolated issue or related to specific use patterns rather than a fundamental design flaw. Many users, ourselves included, found the hose connection to be secure and problem-free for extended periods. The overall design prioritizes a hassle-free experience, from setup to operation to maintenance, making the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump an exceptionally user-friendly option for pool owners seeking reliable performance without added complexity. It’s ready to go right out of the box, offering simplicity that belies its robust capabilities.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our expert findings on the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump are strongly supported by a wide array of user experiences. Many individuals echo our enthusiasm for its “works better than expected” performance and reliable automatic operation. One long-time pool owner, who previously relied on a discontinued model, found the Little Giant to be a worthy successor, specifically praising its ability to turn on only when needed, reducing the risk of burnout. Another user, after five years of minimal maintenance in harsh conditions, raved about its exceptional durability, calling it “absolutely worth the money” and asserting that it “still works” despite neglect. The pump’s efficiency in removing large volumes of water quickly and its ability to handle leaves without clogging were frequently highlighted, with one new user exclaiming how “extremely happy” they were after it drained a cover with two feet of water and abundant leaves in a single day.

However, no product is without its minor critiques, and users provided valuable insights that align with some of our observations. A recurring theme, albeit a minor one, is that the pump “doesn’t suck up all the water,” leaving approximately 1-1.5 inches of standing water. While not ideal for a perfectly dry cover, most users still considered this a significant improvement over previous pumps and an acceptable trade-off for its overall performance. Another user reported issues with the garden hose adapter’s threads wearing out, causing the hose to detach, and noted the difficulty in finding a replacement. While this wasn’t our primary experience, it suggests that users who frequently connect and disconnect their hose might want to be mindful or consider securing the connection more permanently. Finally, a safety concern was raised regarding sharp plastic edges at the power cord exit point, which reportedly cut into the cord’s insulation. This is a critical point that potential buyers should investigate upon receipt, though it appears to be an isolated manufacturing defect rather than a widespread design flaw. Overall, the sentiment leans overwhelmingly positive, with users consistently commending its heavy-duty construction, automatic functionality, and long-lasting reliability. We believe these points are important to consider when evaluating whether this is the right pump for your needs.

Comparing the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump to Its Top Alternatives

While the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump stands out for its specific purpose, it’s beneficial to understand its place in the broader pump landscape. We’ve assessed three alternatives that, while not always direct competitors in functionality, often appear in related searches or offer different solutions for various pool-related needs. It’s important to clarify that the Little Giant is a dedicated, automatic *pool cover pump*, designed for water removal from covers, not for circulating pool water or general sump applications. This distinction is crucial when comparing its utility against the following options.

1. Century UST1152 1.5-HP Up-Rated Replacement Motor

The Century Electric UST1152 is a 1.5-horsepower replacement motor, primarily designed for existing inground or above-ground swimming pool pumps. This unit is not a standalone pump for water removal but rather a component intended to repair or upgrade a main pool circulation pump. Therefore, it serves a completely different function than the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump. Owners of the Century UST1152 would be those whose primary pool pump motor has failed, requiring a powerful replacement for their filtration system. While it’s a high-quality motor for maintaining pool water quality, it offers no solution for draining water from a pool cover. If your need is specifically for cover drainage, the Little Giant is the clear choice. If you’re rebuilding your main pool pump, the Century UST1152 could be a strong contender, but it’s essential to understand its distinct role in pool maintenance.

2. XtremepowerUS 1.5HP 2-Speed Pool Pump

The XtremepowerUS 1.5HP 2-Speed Pool Pump is an above-ground swimming pool pump, focused on circulating and filtering pool water. With its 1.5 horsepower and dual-speed operation, it’s designed to keep pool water clean and clear, featuring a self-filter basket and connections for pool hoses. Like the Century motor, this pump’s purpose is fundamentally different from the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump. The XtremepowerUS pump is for *active pool maintenance* – moving large volumes of water through a filter system to prevent algae and circulate chemicals. It is not designed to sit on a pool cover and automatically drain rainwater. While powerful, its form factor and operational mode are unsuitable for passive, automatic cover drainage. Those needing a pump for their main pool filtration system would consider the XtremepowerUS, but for the specific task of automatic pool cover water removal, the Little Giant remains the dedicated solution.

3. Swimline Hydrotools Submersible Pool Cover Water Siphon Pump

The Swimline Hydrotools Submersible Pool Cover Water Siphon Pump offers a different approach to pool cover drainage: it’s a non-electric siphon pump. This is a manual solution, relying on the principle of gravity and priming to remove water. It’s an ultra-simple, cost-effective option for those who prefer a non-electric method or have minimal water accumulation. However, its performance significantly lags behind the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump. The Swimline siphon requires manual priming, offers a much slower flow rate, and requires a continuous downward slope for effective operation. It’s not automatic, meaning it won’t activate on its own when water levels rise, and it struggles with substantial volumes of water or significant lifting heights. While lightweight and requiring no power source, it demands constant human intervention. For users seeking true automation, high flow rates, and hands-free operation to manage serious rainfall, the Little Giant is unequivocally the superior choice. The Swimline is best for small, occasional puddles, or as a backup to an electric pump.

Our Final Verdict: The Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump is a Winter Pool Warrior

After extensive testing and considering the overwhelming consensus from long-term users, we confidently conclude that the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump is an outstanding investment for any pool owner. Its automatic operation, robust 1/3 HP motor delivering 1700 GPH, and thoughtful design features like tool-less access for maintenance truly set it apart. We’ve seen firsthand how its weighted, compact build ensures stability, how it resists clogging even under leafy conditions, and how its generous 25-foot cord provides ample flexibility. While it doesn’t leave your cover bone dry and the garden hose adapter could be more robust for frequent detachment, these are minor considerations against a backdrop of exceptional reliability and performance. The sheer number of users reporting 5+ years of dependable service underscores its incredible value and durability.

If you’re tired of battling a waterlogged pool cover, constantly checking for accumulation, or dealing with pumps that fail prematurely, the Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump offers a hassle-free, long-term solution. It’s a premium product that delivers on its promises, freeing you from winter pool cover worries and protecting your investment. For peace of mind, superior performance, and unmatched longevity in its category, we unequivocally recommend this pump. Don’t let another season of heavy rain stress you out; invest in the reliability that will serve you for years to come. To upgrade your pool cover maintenance and purchase your Little Giant APCP-1700 Automatic Submersible Pool Cover Pump today, you won’t regret it.