Variable Speed Pool Pump Review | Best Buyers Guide

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Researching and buying a variable speed pool pump is just a great idea, a “no brainer” in fact.

In the new world of smart equipment available for your pool pad a variable speed pump is right up there as one of the smartest.

To our knowledge at least it’s the only piece of pool equipment that will pay back your investment fast and then start making you money by drastically reducing pool related energy bills.

A robotic cleaner is frugal, but the best variable speed pool pumps take your savings to a whole new level.

Our pool experts have curated and reviewed a list of this years best VS pool pumps to help your buying decision.

In addition, our reviews have a compete buyers guide to give you all the knowledge you’ll need to choose the right pump for your pool size and installation.

Let’s dive straight in……

BEST VARIABLE SPEED POOL PUMPS

	HAYWARDS MaxFlo VS Pool Pump	SIZE:  23.8 x 9.7 x 11.16 inches HORSEPOWER:  1.65HP  PLUMBING:  1,5 x 2 Union POWER: 230V Single Phase.	READ REVIEW
	PENTAIR SuperFlo VS Pool Pump	SIZE:  28 x 15.5 x 12.5 inches HORSEPOWER:  Up to 1.5HP  PLUMBING:  1,5 x 2 Union POWER: 115 or 230V - 50/60 Hz	READ REVIEW
	HAYWARDS Variable Speed Pool Pump	SIZE:  22 x 9.9 x 11.6 inches HORSEPOWER:  0.85HP  PLUMBING:  1,5 x 2 Union POWER: 115V Single Phase	READ REVIEW
	PENTAIR IntelliFlo VS Pool Pump	SIZE:  23.3 x 10.8 x 12.4 inches HORSEPOWER:  THP 3.95 PLUMBING:  2″ Fittings POWER: 230V Full load 16A	READ REVIEW
	XtremepowerUS Variable Speed Pool Pump	SIZE:  25 x 9 x 11 inches HORSEPOWER:  1.5HP PLUMBING:  1.5 inches POWER: 230V Single Phase	READ REVIEW
	HARRIS ProForce VS Pool Pump	HORSEPOWER:  1.5 or 3.00HP PLUMBING:  1.5 or 2.00 inches threaded Female. POWER: 230V Single Phase	READ REVIEW

Hayward MaxFlo VS Pool Pump

 BEST VS POOL PUMP

At a Glance

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The impressive MaxFlo VS pump is an easy drop-in. It’s capable of running the pool circulation independently or connected to any automation system. Compatible with the entire MaxFlo range, so it’s an easy retrofit.

According to the manufacturer this 1.65 HP MaxFlo Variable Speed pool pump is rated by EPA ENERGY STAR as the most efficient pump of its kind.

• SPEED OPTIONS: As you would expect this pump is fully programmable between 600 and 3450 RPM. It does also come set up with customisable presets of 1000, 1750, 2500 and 3250 RPM. A quick clean button can fire up the pump at the maximum which most pool vacuums require.
• TIMER: Fully customisable start and stop run times.
• THE DIGITAL INTERFACE: Easily the best on the market in terms of ease of use and adaptability. Four different screen orientations are available, or it can be removed and placed anywhere up to 500 ft away (300V wire required).  A real winning feature.
• REMOTE CONTROL: Excellent wiring instructions. The MaxFlo can be controlled from most third party systems or the Haywards OmniLogic controller.
• RANGE OPTIONS: The highlighted 0.85 or a 1.65 HP model.
• BUILD QUALITY: Fan cooled (TEFC) motor. Ultra low noise impact and an award winning efficiency rating what’s not to like here.
• POWER: Hayward MaxFlo Variable Speed Pool Pump is available using 230V power source. Check out the Haywards Super Pump below if you’re looking for 115v connections.

Pentair Variable Speed Pump

At a Glance

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As variable speed pool pumps go this is a pretty affordable choice. Plenty of features, and the Pentair build quality makes this quite a compelling replacement option. 

Simple to fit, in fact it’s a just a simple drop in replacement for the Hayward Super Pump. It’s also a suitable replacement for any pool currently using up to a 1.5 HP pump.

• VARIABLE SPEEDS: The Pentair SuperFlo operates anywhere between 300 and 3450 RPM. There’s three factory preset options 1400, 2200 and 3000 RPM which can be adjusted as required. A programable or manual quick clean mode that runs full throttle at 3450 RPM when required.
• TIMER: A factory default schedule is pre-programmed into the pump. 2 hours at 3000 RPM, 10 hours at 1400 RPM and 2 hours at 2200 RPM. Of course it can be changed and fine tuned to suit your installation and surface equipment.
• DIGITAL INTERFACE: A small UV and rainproof enclosure houses the simple and intuitive user interface. Large buttons and a clear digital readout make the pump a breeze to program. Displays Watts, RPM, current time and time remaining to finish daily program.
• EXTERNAL CONTROL: The SuperFlo Variable Speed Pump can be wired to run using automation external controls.
• BUILD QUALITY: A tough polymer pump body enclosing a fan cooled (TEFC) motor. The totally enclosed body means it’s ultra quiet when running.
• POWER: At the time of writing the pump is the only variable speed pump that doesn’t require wiring upgrades, it runs on either 115- or 230-volt power. We like the the easy access to the wiring compartment. Hook up is fast and simple.
• ENERGY SAVINGS: Manufacturer estimates this VS pool pump can save as much as $1300.00 per year in running costs. Well they would say that !! What is true is it’s certainly a massive money saver of a pump what ever your pool installation may be.

Hayward 0.85 HP Variable Speed Pool Pump

At a Glance

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Designed for small to medium size pools. The versatile variable speed Hayward Super pump neatly fits the lower range of pool sizes.

A compelling choice for many pool owners that run a 115v equipment pad. A capable pump with a comfortingly large output at the higher RPM range. (3000 RPM = 87 GPM @ 10ft head).

• VARIABLE SPEEDS: The VS Super Pump operates between 600 to 3450 RPM. Out of the box it’s set with four default speeds 1000, 1750, 2500 and 3250 RPM. Preset speeds and times are easily updated via the control panel. A maximum 3450 RPM mode is available to run pool vacuums.
• TIMER: Select days and customise timings and RPM values. The firmware on the pump allows complete flexibility to program the pump to your pool size and peripheral equipment.
• DIGITAL INTERFACE: Swivels into four different directions or can be unmounted and sited elsewhere for easier visual access if required. Apart from the usual settings it also has a diagnostic mode with an array of useful data values.
• REMOTE CONTROL: The Super pump can be controlled by Hayward external controls or third party equipment. Not all functions are available when running remotely though so research well before buying this add on.
• RANGE OPTIONS: The highlighted 0.85 or a 1.65 HP model.
• BUILD QUALITY: Totally enclosed fan cooled permanent magnet motor. Whisper quiet but with maximum energy efficiency and unmatched reliability.
• POWER: Available in 115V .
• ENERGY SAVINGS: Up to 80% pump run cost savings over a regular single speed pump.

Pentair IntelliFlo VS Pool Pump

At a Glance

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Pentair were first to market a variable speed pool pump. The IntelliFlo caused a real revolution. This latest model in the series upgrades user interface, firmware and electrical access. 

So is the IntelliFlo still ahead of the pack after ten years?  Has the upgrade given this venerable old senior pump a new lease of life ?  It’s still hard to see past the IntelliFlo variable speed pump,  It’s still way, way up on the US best selling pool pump list.  Lets find out why….

• SPEED OPTIONS: The Pentair Intelliflo operating envelope is 450 to 3450 RPM. The four factory program presets 750, 1500, 2350 and 3110 RPM can be changed, adjusted to owners installation set up. If there’s a problem that needs fixing fast or to just to vacuum and add chemicals then the quick clean mode runs full throttle at 3450 RPM.
• TIMER: Fully customisable to suit the pool usage and off peak energy envelopes. Easy to change timings or just set and forget.
• CONTROL PANEL: This new model keypad is rotatable and can even be detached and wall mounted with a kit that’s sold separately. Easy and intuitive controls make fine tuning the pumps performance a pleasure not a chore.
• REMOTE CONTROL: The IntelliFlo VS pump is fully compatible with IntelliTouch, EasyTouch and SunTouch external control systems. With ScreenLogic Interface fitted owner can also control pool using Mac or PC2 computers or IOS and Android devices.
• BUILD QUALITY: The polymer body houses enclosing the ultra-efficient permanent magnet motor. It’s fan cooled and totally enclosed that’s why the pump has hardly any audible impact.
• POWER: Needs 230 volts. This new model has really simplified the wiring process. It’s changed from a minor nightmare to set up into a very easy process indeed.
• ENERGY SAVINGS: Large running cost savings claimed by Pentair, up to $1500.00 per year in fact. We don’t think that’s too unreasonable, but we suggest you just expect around 60 – 70% cut in pump utility charges.

XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP VS Pool Pump

At a Glance

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This economical VS pump from Xtremepower is compatible with in ground and larger above ground pool applications.

A budget price doesn’t mean it’s lacking in all the basic features you need to enjoy all the financial savings of a PMM motor. 

• VARIABLE SPEEDS: Four speed settings can be selected from 450 to 3450 RPM. Default speeds are 750, 1500, 2350 and 3110 RPM. The low end 450 RPM should be particularly handy for above ground pool owners.
• TIMER: A built in timer is onboard but we found the set up for it rather difficult to understand. It’s not a deal breaker though it just needs a little perseverance to get it up and running.
• DIGITAL INTERFACE: About the size of a large smart phone. No swivelling options with the interface which can make it a tad awkward in some installations. Clear enough to read but the firmware is a little cumbersome to use.
• REMOTE CONTROL: It does have a communications port to connect to automatic systems. Cannot be controlled remotely at the time of writing no relay inputs are fitted to this model.
• BUILD QUALITY: Super quiet when running. Built from high durability corrosion proof polymer.
• POWER: Just a 230V version.
• OVERHEAT FUNCTION: If the drive temperature gets above 130º F this  pump will reduce speed until the excess temperature comes down.

Harris 72522 ProForce VS Pump

 BEST BUDGET VS POOL PUMP

At a Glance

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The least expensive pump on our list, in fact it doesn’t cost much more than a good quality single speed pump.

It’s a basic VS pool  pump without the many of the features and flexibility of others on review. It’s certainly capable of saving you money upfront and when it’s running but don’t expect any after sales service from Harris it’s poor. It is a good budget option but not the best. 

• VARIABLE SPEEDS: Simple controls that can run the pump in eco mode (1500 RPM), clean mode (2400 RPM) or boost (3250 RPM). There’s a choice of 16 and 24 hour cleaning cycles, and LED pump status indicators.
• DIGITAL INTERFACE: Large and intuitive to use. The cover can make access a little awkward in some pool pad set ups
• BUILD QUALITY: Strong polymer build and quiet even when running at maximum revs. We like the really good sized filter basket. 
• POWER: Just a 230V version.
• RANGE OPTIONS:  Either 1.5 or 3.0 HP

BUYING GUIDE FOR VS POOL PUMPS

Match Your VS Pool Pump To Your Installation

When you’re thinking of buying a variable speed pool pump it can be tempting to “upgrade” to a larger horsepower unit. There’s no problem with that but make sure a larger capacity and higher powered unit is compatible with your installation and filter.

The size of your existing filter and plumbing  diameter can be the limiting factors in how much water volume can be safely and efficiently pumped through the system.

Sand filters and multi-valves in particular are notorious pressure choke points and keep in mind a sand filter is a pressurised container so excess pressure can be a potential hazard.

What HorsePower To Choose

Look at the example chart of the excellent Hayward variable speed pump range. HorsePower directly affects the pump’s GPM output, and of course the cost to run the pump.

Pump Output (GPM) vs Feet of Head
Model	HP	20 ft	30 ft	40 ft	50 ft
SP2600X5	0.50	48 GPM	38 GPM	23 GPM	-
SP2605X7	0.75	61 GPM	52 GPM	41 GPM	25 GPM
SP2607X10	1.00	74 GPM	64 GPM	54 GPM	40 GPM
SP2610X15	1.50	83 GPM	74 GPM	64 GPM	52 GPM
SP2615X20	2.00	122 GPM	111 GPM	98 GPM	84 GPM
SP2621X25	2.50	117 GPM	108 GPM	97 GPM	86 GPM
SP2670007X10	1.00	74 GPM	64 GPM	54 GPM	40 GPM
SP2670010X15	1.50	83 GPM	74 GPM	64 GPM	52 GPM
W3SP2600X5	0.50	48 GPM	38 GPM	23 GPM	-
W3SP2605X7	0.75	61 GPM	52 GPM	41 GPM	25 GPM
W3SP2607X10	1.00	74 GPM	64 GPM	54 GPM	40 GPM
W3SP2610X15	1.50	83 GPM	74 GPM	64 GPM	52 GPM
W3SP2615X20	2.00	122 GPM	111 GPM	98 GPM	84 GPM
W3SP2621X25	2.50	117 GPM	108 GPM	97 GPM	86 GPM
Haywards Pump HorsePower Examples

Now with a single speed pump picking the right HorsePower is important so as not to overwhelm the system with too much flow and power.

It’s either full on or off.

With a VS pool pump you choose the flow rates to suit your installation so HP is not such an issue.

The best variable speed pool pumps let the owner dial in the exact flow rates they require for pool circulation and chemical treatment.

What does this all mean? Well the difference in price between a ,75 HP and a 1.5 HP is surprisingly small. So installing the larger pump means that it can just run at low and medium – low speeds and still output enough flow to circulate the pool effectively.

The pump affinity law we explain below low speed variable speed pump settings cost just cents a day to run.

Find Your Pool Volume

You probably know this already but in case you don’t here is a table with simplified formulas to calculate your installation volume.

SHAPE of POOL	FOR GALLONS
Rectangular	L x W x Av Depth x 7.5
Circular	D x D x Av Depth x 5.9
Oval	L x W x Av Depth x 6.0

Knowing how much water the VS pool pump has to turn over per day is the starting point for choosing your pump.

For good pool sanitation the pool water needs to be turned over an absolute minimum of once a day. Twice is optimal and more than twice is starting to get a tad indulgent, but occasionally depending on the pool usage or weather conditions sometimes more than twice daily might be needed if it’s even possible.

Auxiliary Pool Equipment Audit

Some equipment like salt chlorination systems and heat pumps need a minimum flow rate for them to work.

Obviously the run times and the GPMs required to activate these pool accessories is our second data point to consider when setting up our variable speed pool pump. Fortunately these components generally have quite low threshold GPM starting values so it’s not too big of an issue.

If you want to run waterfalls and water features you’ll just have to accept they’re energy hogs. A VS pump can’t lower the cost of running them.

Variable Speed Pump Data Tables

Your variable speed pump performance data table will give you an estimate of GPM output for various pump speeds. For our simplified purposes we’ll use “foot of head” as simply meaning the distance of pump to pool.

When you’re writing a daily pump schedule we need to confirm we’re turning at least one or two pool volumes per day. The pump data table will help you, Here’s an example.

Of course you probably don’t want to run your pump 24 hours a day so the pump should be able to complete two circulations in 12 to 18 hours. No rocket science here!!

Are Variable Speed Pumps Worth It ?

Well the quick answer is yes definitely.

Variable speed pool pumps do cost considerably more than a single or dual speed pump.

There’s a reason for that, and plenty of compelling reasons why you should pay the extra, and invest in one right away.

When you’re investing in anything you’re hoping to make a some kind of return.

With a variable speed pool pump you don’t just hope for a return, you’re almost certainly guaranteed make your money back quickly and be in profit after a year or so.

Who doesn’t likes that kind of investment.

If that sounds too good to be true, well it isn’t. There’s solid facts and science to back it up. We’re going to take a look at the facts and features that make a variable speed pump such a compelling choice.

Perhaps the startling figures below taken from the US Department of Energy will surprise and probably shock you.

Check out the table, if you’re currently running a single speed pump then it’s running at 3450 rpm all day and all night. Yikes !!

Variable Speed Pump Speed Versus Power In Watts
SPEED	FLOW	POWER
(rpm)	(gpm)	(W)
3450	66	2000
3000	55	1157
2400	44	593
1800	33	250
1200	22	74
600	11	9

Variable Speed Pool Pump Energy Savings

Everyone likes a number, especially when it’s about how much money you’re going to save. You’ve probably seen a lot of incredible savings numbers being tossed into the variable pool pump arena.

As far as manufacturers claims of 80 to 90% reduction in pump related energy costs whilst not untrue they do relate to best case examples. They’re almost impossible to replicate on a retro-fitted pump.

Calculating your exact energy savings before buying well that isn’t really possible. There’s just too many factors to consider. Age and configuration of the installation, accessories and features like waterfalls, vacuums, solar systems, and where the pool lives. If it’s uncovered and being contaminated with airborne dust and debris is a factor too.

In our experience just the possibility of slower pump speed and pool turnover rates has instantly cut between 50 and 60% off pump related energy costs. (See Pump Affinity Law Below)

VS pumps achieve an efficiency ratings of 90% compared to the average single-speed pump with efficiency ratings between 30% and 60%. It’s easy to see how savings are guaranteed with a VS pump.But to maximise energy saving the VS pump must be optimised for the task it’s doing. Reducing flow rate to match the task is key. A single speed pump is either full on or off. Whether it’s skimming the pool, adding chemicals or running a vacuum a single speed pump runs at 100 mph.

With a variable speed pool pump the owner can adjust to suit the job. You’ve seen from he chart above just how much can be saved by a simple RPM adjustment.

Pump Affinity Law

Don’t worry this isn’t some new federal tax they’ve slipped in behind your back. This is a nice law that’s going to save you money.

This law  expresses a mathematical relationships between the several variables involved in a pump performance. It looks at motor speed, flow rates, and energy consumption.

For our purposes as variable speed pool pump owners all we need to know is that when you reduce the motor speed by half the flow rate reduces by a similar amount.

Now the amazing thing is the electrical consumption of your pool pump is reduced to just 1/8th of the original draw.

How Long Does A Variable Speed Pump Last

A new VS pump owner should be able to look forward to 5 to 8 years of use before a major service or replacement is required.  The TEFC motor in a variable speed pump are a just a huge step forward from single and dual speed designs and this on it’s own significantly increases the serviceable life of the pump.

Obviously many variables are involved here so this is only a ball park figure based on our and others in the industry’s experience.

For peace of mind many owners purchase an extended warranty even on the best variable speed pumps. It makes sense to purchase a low cost three year extra warranty when the pump is saving up to $1000.00 a year. A no brainer in fact !!

VS Speed Pool Pump Federal Legislation

Not really a choice this one. The humble pool pump has caused the federal government to step in and effectively force pool owners over to variable speed pumps by July 21 2021. Sounds odd?  Well not really when you consider during the summer months the most significant consumers of energy in homes with swimming pools are pool pumps.

We’re talking about the standard single speed pump of course, probably like the one you’ve got installed right now. They can consume way, way north of 5,000 kWh per year.

So much energy in fact the government had to legislate a new National Pool Pump Law. Yikes !!

No one likes to forced into a pump purchase but in this case it could just be one of those purchases you wish you’d made years earlier.

We’ve written a more in depth article about the law change here >>

Variable Speed Pool Pump Rebates

More and more power companies are offering rebates on the purchase of Energy Star Certified variable speed pumps.

Of course as the federal legislation date gets closer that forces VS pumps onto pool pads they might start to pull their rebate programs.

Rebate amounts, due dates. and eligibility obviously vary company to company, but it’s definitely worth checking with your energy provider to find out what they are offering.

Here’s a link to a Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency that that might help you.

If you’re undecided on a purchase and your energy provider offers a rebate best grab it before it goes away.

Benefits Of A Variable Speed Pool Pump

Low Audible Impact

That’s a fancy way of saying quieter. Variable speed pool pumps are much, much quieter than a regular single speed pump.

Fan cooled and fully enclosed. Virtually silent on low and medium RPM settings, and on high just a hum instead of the familiar hammering drone of a regular single speed pump.

Off Peak Electricity

Of course virtual silence is much more pleasant when the pool is in use but it allows the pump to be run all night without disturbing your sleep, or aggravating the neighbours.

Running at night might also allow you to take full advantage of “off peak” electricity too.

Energy Efficient

Certainly your old single speed pump will soldier on running at maximum RPM and power and keep costing you maximum power charges. All VS pumps will save you money but the best variable speed pool pump will offer features to really fine tune the RPM to maximise your savings.

Many of the larger horsepower models have the GPM capacity to run your pool vacuums or water features without having to run at anywhere near maximum RPMs. You can dial in the right RPM to get the job done by using just the right amount of power.

Durability

Unlike their old single and dual-speed cousins this new kid on the block runs a permanent magnet motors (PMM). It’s the same concept motor that runs a golf cart or a Tesla sports car.

Totally enclosed and fan-cooled the best variable speed pool pumps are obviously much more efficient than motors with field windings.

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