We recommend running the pump at least 8-10 hours a day. During early spring and late fally, the weather is cooler and days are shorter, so you may be able to cut the pump run time down to 4-6 hours. This is typically because there is usually less swimmers and cooler water requires less chemicals. In peak season, when it is the hottest and the pool gets the most sunlight, increasing the pump run time to 10-12 hours per day will help to keep the pool clean by allowing the proper circluation. There are many factors to consider; bather load, size of pool (i.e. gallons of water), pump horsepower, and type and size of filter. Running the pump constantly throughout the season is also acceptable.