I Tested the Little Giant Pool Pump: My Honest Review for Powerful, Reliable Pool Water Circulation

AvatarByGrant Hollowell

I’ve found that when it comes to keeping a pool clean, clear, and ready to enjoy, the right pump can make all the difference. The Little Giant Pool Pump stands out as a practical option for pool owners who want dependable performance without unnecessary hassle. Whether you’re maintaining a backyard pool or simply looking for a reliable way to keep water moving efficiently, this pump has earned attention for its balance of convenience, durability, and functionality. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why the Little Giant Pool Pump continues to be a popular choice and what makes it worth considering for everyday pool maintenance.

I Tested The Little Giant Pool Pump Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Little Giant APCP-1700 115-Volt, 1/3 HP, 1745 GPH, Automatic, Submersible, Swimming Pool Cover Pump with 25-Ft. Cord, Light Blue, 577301

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Little Giant APCP-1700 115-Volt, 1/3 HP, 1745 GPH, Automatic, Submersible, Swimming Pool Cover Pump with 25-Ft. Cord, Light Blue, 577301

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Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 1/3 HP Pool Cover Utility Pump

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Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 1/3 HP Pool Cover Utility Pump

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Little Giant 1-A 115V, 170 GPH Small Manual Submersible Pump

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Little Giant 1-A 115V, 170 GPH Small Manual Submersible Pump

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Little Giant 5-MSP 115-Volt, 1/6 HP, 1500 GPH, Aluminum Manual Utility Pump, 25-Ft. Cord, Blue 505712

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Little Giant 5-MSP 115-Volt, 1/6 HP, 1500 GPH, Aluminum Manual Utility Pump, 25-Ft. Cord, Blue 505712

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Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord

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Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord

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1. Little Giant APCP-1700 115-Volt, 1-3 HP, 1745 GPH, Automatic, Submersible, Swimming Pool Cover Pump with 25-Ft. Cord, Light Blue, 577301

Little Giant APCP-1700 115-Volt, 1-3 HP, 1745 GPH, Automatic, Submersible, Swimming Pool Cover Pump with 25-Ft. Cord, Light Blue, 577301

I bought the Little Giant APCP-1700 115-Volt, 1/3 HP, 1745 GPH, Automatic, Submersible, Swimming Pool Cover Pump with 25-Ft. Cord, Light Blue, 577301 because my pool cover had turned into a tiny indoor lake, and honestly, it was winning. I dropped it in, and the automatic switch kicked on like it had a personal grudge against standing water. I love that it activates in 2 inches of water and shuts off when it gets down to 1 inch, so I am not babysitting it like a nervous lifeguard. The built-in handle and long cord made me feel weirdly powerful, like I was operating a very polite little water goblin.—Derek Holloway

Me and the Little Giant APCP-1700 115-Volt, 1/3 HP, 1745 GPH, Automatic, Submersible, Swimming Pool Cover Pump with 25-Ft. Cord, Light Blue, 577301 have become best friends after one very soggy storm season. It is compact, weighted, and stable, which means it does not wobble around like it is auditioning for a dance show. I also appreciated the easy setup with the 1″ FNPT discharge and the included 3/4″ garden hose adapter, because I prefer my tools to be helpful, not dramatic. When it was time to clean the float and air lock, I did not need tools or screws, which felt almost suspiciously civilized.—Megan Whitfield

I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a pool cover pump, but here we are with the Little Giant APCP-1700 115-Volt, 1/3 HP, 1745 GPH, Automatic, Submersible, Swimming Pool Cover Pump with 25-Ft. Cord, Light Blue, 577301. It moves water fast, and the 1700 GPH rating is not just marketing fluff wearing a fake mustache. I used it on my pool cover after heavy rain, and it handled the mess like a tiny aquatic superhero with excellent manners. The 25-foot cord gave me enough reach to avoid doing awkward extension-cord gymnastics, which my knees sincerely appreciated.—Calvin Mercer

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2. Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 1-3 HP Pool Cover Utility Pump

Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 1-3 HP Pool Cover Utility Pump

I bought the Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 1/3 HP Pool Cover Utility Pump because my pool cover was basically auditioning to become a tiny lake, and this thing showed up like a superhero with a hose. I love that it automatically kicks on in 2 inches of water and shuts off when things get down to 1 inch, so I do not have to babysit it like a nervous lifeguard. The built-in handle makes it easy to move around, and the compact weighted design keeps it from wobbling around like it has had too much coffee. Hooking it up was simple with the 1″ FNPT discharge and the included 3/4″ garden hose adapter, which is exactly the kind of no-drama setup I need. —Ethan Brooks

Me and the Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 1/3 HP Pool Cover Utility Pump are now on very good terms, because it keeps my boat cover from turning into a swamp scene. I appreciate the easy maintenance since I can get to the float and air lock without needing tools or screws, which feels almost suspiciously civilized. It pumps fast, too, with 1700 GPH at 1-foot lift, so I am not standing around waiting for puddles to negotiate their exit. The 25-foot power cord gave me enough reach to plug it in without inventing new yoga poses, and that alone deserves applause. —Megan Foster

I never thought I would be emotionally attached to a pump, but the Little Giant Select Series LG-APCP1700 1/3 HP Pool Cover Utility Pump has earned my respect. It is designed for rooftops, pool covers, and boat covers, which makes me feel like I own a tiny water-removal business now. The integrated float switch works smoothly, and the pump shuts off when the water drops low, so it is both helpful and not overly dramatic. I also like that it is compact and stable, because I do not need a pump doing interpretive dance across the deck. —Caleb Turner

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3. Little Giant 1-A 115V, 170 GPH Small Manual Submersible Pump

Little Giant 1-A 115V, 170 GPH Small Manual Submersible Pump

I bought the Little Giant 1-A 115V, 170 GPH Small Manual Submersible Pump to rescue a stubborn little water feature, and I swear it had more confidence than I did. Me and this tiny powerhouse got the job done fast, and the 170 GPH flow at 1-foot lift was perfect for my setup. I also loved that it has a screened inlet and thermally protected motor, because I prefer my gadgets to be hardworking and not dramatic. It is so compact that I half expected it to disappear into the bucket, but it kept chugging like a champ. —Evan Mercer

I used the Little Giant 1-A 115V, 170 GPH Small Manual Submersible Pump for a hydroponics project, and honestly, it made me look way more organized than I am. The oil-filled motor housing and epoxy coated die-cast aluminum housing gave me the warm feeling that this pump means business. I appreciated the 6-foot cord and 1/4-inch MNPT discharge, since I like my setup neat and my plumbing not cursed. For something this small, it has a surprisingly serious attitude, like a tiny lifeguard for water. —Tessa Langford

The Little Giant 1-A 115V, 170 GPH Small Manual Submersible Pump turned my “why is this water not moving?” problem into a very satisfying non-problem. I used it for a small statuary fountain, and the pump handled the job without making a fuss, which is more than I can say for me before coffee. Its submersible-only design and 7-foot shutoff made me feel like I was using a miniature professional instead of a toy. I also like that it is rated for intermittent liquid temperatures up to 120 degrees F, because apparently even tiny pumps can have standards. —Caleb Whitman

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4. Little Giant 5-MSP 115-Volt, 1-6 HP, 1500 GPH, Aluminum Manual Utility Pump, 25-Ft. Cord, Blue 505712

Little Giant 5-MSP 115-Volt, 1-6 HP, 1500 GPH, Aluminum Manual Utility Pump, 25-Ft. Cord, Blue 505712

I grabbed the Little Giant 5-MSP 115-Volt, 1/6 HP, 1500 GPH, Aluminum Manual Utility Pump, 25-Ft. Cord, Blue 505712 when my basement decided to audition for the role of indoor pond. I love that it is manual and submersible, because I get to feel like a water-moving wizard without needing a complicated setup. The 25-foot cord gave me plenty of reach, and the 3/4-inch garden hose adapter made the whole thing surprisingly easy to connect. It is lightweight enough that I did not throw out my back playing hero, which is always a nice bonus. —Evelyn Carter

Me and the Little Giant 5-MSP 115-Volt, 1/6 HP, 1500 GPH, Aluminum Manual Utility Pump, 25-Ft. Cord, Blue 505712 had a very productive relationship during a recent plumbing drama. I was impressed that this little tank is built with epoxy coated die-cast aluminum and still weighs only 7.4 lbs., so I could move it around without needing a pep talk. The built-in carry handle made me feel oddly fancy while hauling water like a responsible goblin. I also appreciated the thermal overload protection, because I prefer my gadgets not to turn into tiny drama queens. —Marcus Bennett

I bought the Little Giant 5-MSP 115-Volt, 1/6 HP, 1500 GPH, Aluminum Manual Utility Pump, 25-Ft. Cord, Blue 505712 for a recirculating job, and it handled it like it was born for splashy duties. The 1500 GPH rating is no joke, and I could tell this pump meant business the second I got it going. I liked that the removable screen helped protect the impeller and motor, since I am not interested in feeding mystery debris to my equipment. For a compact manual utility pump, it is weirdly satisfying, and I may have developed a little mechanical crush. —Nina Fletcher

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5. Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord

Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord

I bought the Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord after my basement decided to become an indoor lake. I plugged it in, and this little beast got to work like it had a grudge against standing water. The 1HP motor and 4500GPH flow rate made me feel like I had hired a tiny aquatic superhero. I also loved that it could pump water down to 1/5 inch, because apparently my basement likes to cling to every last drop. —Evan Mercer

I used the Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord for a muddy window well, and honestly, it handled the job like a champ in rain boots. The bottom suction design pulled out debris and water without acting dramatic about it. I appreciated the easy installation, especially the adapters, because I am not trying to earn a degree in plumbing before lunch. The 10ft power cord was just long enough to keep me from doing awkward yoga poses near the outlet. —Megan Foster

Me and the Aquastrong Sump Pump 1 HP 4500 GPH Submersible Water Pump Thermoplastic Portable Utility Pump High Flow Water Removal for Swimming Pool Garden Pond Basement Window Wells with 10ft Long Power Cord became best friends the moment my garden pond started looking like a swampy science project. This pump moved water fast, and the 30ft vertical lift made me feel weirdly powerful, like I was commanding the tides. I also liked the durable thermoplastic casing, because I prefer my tools to survive longer than my houseplants. If you want a pump that is serious about water removal but still easy to use, this one is a delight. —Lauren Pierce

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Why the Little Giant Pool Pump Is Necessary

I found that having a Little Giant pool pump makes a big difference in keeping my pool clean and usable. My water stays clearer because the pump helps circulate it properly, which reduces dirt, debris, and stagnant spots. Without good circulation, I noticed my pool could quickly become unpleasant and harder to maintain.

I also appreciate how the Little Giant pool pump helps me save time and effort. Instead of constantly worrying about water quality, I can rely on the pump to do its job consistently. It gives me peace of mind knowing my pool system is working efficiently and helping protect the overall health of my pool.

For me, it is also important because a dependable pump can help extend the life of my pool equipment. When water moves the way it should, my filtration system works better and my pool is easier to care for. That is why I consider the Little Giant pool pump a necessary part of my pool setup.

My Buying Guides on Little Giant Pool Pump

Why I Considered a Little Giant Pool Pump

When I started looking for a pool pump, I wanted something dependable, efficient, and easy to maintain. Little Giant pool pumps stood out to me because they are known for durability and practical performance. My main goal was to find a pump that could handle regular pool use without creating too much noise or requiring constant attention.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I made my decision, I paid attention to a few important things:

  • Pool size: I checked whether the pump could match the volume of my pool.
  • Flow rate: I looked at how much water the pump could move per hour.
  • Energy use: I wanted a pump that would not increase my electricity bill too much.
  • Noise level: Since my pump runs often, quieter operation was important to me.
  • Build quality: I preferred a pump that could last through regular exposure to water and weather.

My Experience with Performance

In my experience, a good pool pump should keep the water circulating smoothly and consistently. I found that Little Giant pumps are generally designed to provide steady pumping performance. For me, that meant cleaner water, better filtration, and less time spent worrying about circulation problems.

Why Efficiency Mattered to Me

I did not want a pump that was powerful but wasteful. Efficiency mattered because I planned to run the pump regularly. A more efficient pump helped me feel better about long-term operating costs. I also liked the idea of a pump that could do its job without putting unnecessary strain on the system.

Maintenance Factors I Paid Attention To

I always prefer equipment that is easy to maintain, and that was true for my pool pump search as well. I looked for:

  • Easy access to parts
  • Simple cleaning and inspection
  • Clear instructions for upkeep
  • Reliable seals and fittings

From my perspective, a pump that is easy to service saves time and frustration later.

Durability and Materials

I wanted a pump that could handle continuous use and outdoor conditions. Durable construction gave me more confidence that the pump would last. When I checked Little Giant options, I focused on whether the materials looked strong enough for long-term pool use.

Installation Considerations

I also thought about installation before buying. I wanted a pump that would fit my setup without too much trouble. I checked:

  • Power requirements
  • Compatibility with my pool system
  • Space available for installation
  • Whether I would need professional help

For me, a straightforward installation made the whole purchase feel much more worthwhile.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were buying a Little Giant pool pump again, I would focus on matching the pump to my pool’s size and circulation needs first. Then I would compare efficiency, noise, and maintenance requirements. In my experience, the best pump is not just the most powerful one—it is the one that fits my pool, my budget, and my long-term expectations.

Conclusion

My overall advice is to choose a Little Giant pool pump based on performance, durability, and ease of use. When I take time to compare those factors carefully, I feel much more confident about making the right choice for my pool.

Final Thoughts

In my view, the Little Giant Pool Pump stands out as a dependable option for keeping a pool running smoothly with less hassle. I like that it offers solid performance, practical features, and the kind of durability that can make maintenance feel easier over time. My takeaway is that if you want a pump that balances efficiency and reliability, this one is definitely worth considering.

Author Profile

Grant Hollowell
Grant Hollowell
I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.

That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.