In this post, I’ll walk you through various aspects of a variable-speed pool pump to help you make an informed buying decision.

Moreover, I’ll also throw light on some of the important buying factors that you shouldn’t ignore in order to buy that one variable-speed pool pump that wouldn’t only cater to your need but also falls well within your budget.

Lastly, I would be helping you with your doubts and queries so that you can do the best purchase effortlessly.

But, before that, I would be needing a small help from you which would help us as a team to improve the quality of this comprehensive buying on the best variable speed pool pump.

Does it make sense?

So, which is your favorite variable-speed pool pump brand?

How much are you willing to spend on a variable-speed pool pump?

How often do you read product reviews?

OK…OK

Enough of questions, right?

So, without any further ado, let’s begin…

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What Is The Best Variable Speed Pool Pump On The Market?

To be honest, all the variable speed pool pumps that were made to our list are of high quality and worth the investment.

However, during our evaluation process, we found that some variable speed pool pumps have outperformed others tangibly, and so our core team has decided to recommend them to our clients and readers of this blog.

Best Variable Speed Pool Pump Review

In this section, I would be reviewing some of the best variable speed pool pumps available on the market, and trust me, we’ve put loads and loads of effort to bring you the best that we can.

Moreover, these parameters have been given a certain weightage depending upon their ability to influence one’s buying decision.

During the evaluation process, we assigned a certain score to each variable speed pool pump depending on its performance and the summation of the respective scores help us to reach a conclusive decision.

Note: We don’t do paid reviews or promotions and we try to the best of our capabilities to come up with an UNBIASED REVIEW.

Before we proceed further, I would like to thank each one of you for the immense love and support that you’ve showered on our product reviews.

Best-Rated 1.5 HP Variable Speed Pool Pump Review

I’m more than happy to bring to you some of the best 1.5 HP variable speed pool pumps available on the market, right now.

All the 1.5 HP pool pumps that were made to our list are of high quality and meant to deliver high performance with ease.

Pentair SuperFlo VS Variable Speed Pool Pump, 342001

To begin with, Pentair SuperFlo VS Variable Speed Pool Pump, 342001 is definitely one of the best products on our list, and it is just because the pump has performed fairly well on almost all the parameters that we used for evaluation purposes.

Well, the 342001 is a unique blend of innovation, performance, and cost-effectiveness and I can bet that you’ll never REGRET investing in this idiosyncratic superlative variable speed pump.

The best-rated pump is highly capable of moving water more efficiently at lower speeds and thus, you can expect a drastic reduction in your energy cost.

Moreover, you don’t have to spend a good lump sum on rewiring as the pump can easily adapt to 115/230 V power.

However, as a pool owner, you should only buy this pump if you think that the requirement of your pool is a 1.5 HP pump, and if the requirement is more then definitely you should opt for some other better options, sorry for being blunt, but this is the way I’m.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, the built-in digital control keypad is definitely gonna make your work easy and hassle-free.

Not only does the pump comes with an override capability but also it comprises three programmable speeds to help you expedite the process in a smooth and hassle-free manner.

Furthermore, you can expedite an ultra-quiet operation and the credit goes to the TEFC motor.

Trust me, this little beast is one of the quietest variable-speed pumps on our list.

Also, it comes with a 24-hour clock that makes monitoring and programming a cakewalk even for beginners.

I highly recommend the SuperFlo VS variable speed pump for its energy-saving ability, ease of use, quiet operation, and newbie-friendly installation process.

That’s all, from my side, please do let us know your feedback about this superlative variable speed pool pump through the mail or in the comment section.

Check Pentair SuperFlo VS Variable Speed Pool Pump Price On Amazon

Hayward SP2610X15 Super Pump 1.5 HP Pool Pump

So, here I come with yet another highly powerful and efficient 1.5 HP variable speed pool pump that is worth your investment, and I can affirm that it will give you a good return in the long run.

The Hayward SP2610X15 performed extremely well in our test but the two parameters on which it performed superlatively are reliability and performance.

Well, the pump comes with a spacious strainer basket to help you deal with debris and leaves in an effective way, and of course, the see-through lid negates the guessing work and also makes the entire cleaning process less time-consuming.

In simple words, you’ll find a tangible reduction in the frequency of maintenance.

The installation process is newbie friendly and can be done without the help of a professional.

Moreover, the manufacturer ensures that you have easy access to the internal parts as well as components in order to make the servicing less time-consuming.

The pump is designed for in-ground pools and spas of all types and also comes with an exclusive service design for extra convenience.

The heavy-duty pump comprises a powerful and high-performance motor that is known to expedite the operation smoothly and quietly because of effective air-flow ventilation.

On top of it, the self-priming feature allows you to suction lift up to 10 feet above the water level in order to help you expedite the process effortlessly.

Needless to say, the installation process and the set-up are newbie-friendly.

I recommend this variable pool pump just because it’s performance-driven, highly efficient, and operates quietly.

So, what are you waiting for?

Check Hayward SP2610X15 Super Pump 1.5 HP Pool Pump Price On Amazon

Hayward SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump

Another great offering from the brand Hayward is SP2303VSP which has performed extremely well on the energy-efficient parameters in our test.

And, you would be astonished to know that the SP2303VSP can help you save up to 80 percent on energy costs as compared to a single-speed pool pump, interesting, isn’t it?

The good thing is, it comes in two versions, that is, 115V, and 230V.

In order to help you with a brief description of the wiring and other internal attributes, the manufacturer has embedded the wiring diagram on the pump data plate level.

So, if the motor faces any problem in getting started then the first thing that you need to do is to ensure that the terminal board connections agree with the wiring diagram.

The variable speed pool pump is powerful enough to take care of your mid-sized or small-sized pool effortlessly, and I can affirm that it comprises all the essential features and ingredients that you might be looking for in your favorite pump.

Moreover, I would accept that the operation isn’t as quiet as some other pumps that made it to our list.

But, at the same time, the operation is quiet enough to not INTERFERE with your regular jobs.

Since the motor is totally enclosed fan-cooled (TEFC) so you can expect a high performance with minimal to no overheating problems.

On top of it, the pump ranges from 153 watts at 1,750 rpm, 222 watts at 2,000 rpm all the way to approximately 880 watts at full speed at 3450 rpm, and can be set for a 50 rpm increment which is definitely something that has grabbed my eyeballs.

The installation process is less time-consuming and in spite of you being a first-time user, you can easily set up the timer with ease.

I recommend this variable pool pump because of its cost-saving ability and performance-driven quiet operation.

Check Hayward SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump Price On Amazon

Hayward SP15932S PowerFlo Matrix 1.5 HP Dual-Speed Above-Ground Swimming Pool Pump

The Hayward SP15932S is a powerful dual-speed pool pump meant mainly for an above-ground pool.

It comprises a powerful 1.5 HP and could be a perfect fit for your small-sized or medium-sized swimming pool.

Not only does the Hayward SP15932S delivers high performance but also ensures that the operation is quiet and smooth so that the neighbors aren’t disturbed.

Moreover, high-performance impellers with a wide opening make clogging a problem of the past.

The two-speed pump scores really high on the usability parameter in our test and this is evident from the fact that the conversion from vertical to horizontal discharge orientation is a cakewalk.

Furthermore, the pump has also scored high on the innovation parameter, and it is quite evident from the integrated automatic thermal overload protector feature that literally mitigates the overloading problem to a great extent.

Not only does the pump outperform its competitors when it comes to circulating and filtering water but also excels in terms of the pressure required for vacuuming.

All in all, a great two-speed above-the-ground pump that you’ll never REGRET investing in.

Check Hayward SP15932S PowerFlo Matrix 1.5 HP Dual-Speed Above-Ground Swimming Pool Pump Price On Amazon

Hayward SP3202VSP 1.85 HP Variable-Speed Pool Pump, TriStar VS

The Hayward SP3202VSP is a unique blend of performance and cost-effectiveness.

Investing in this little beast could be a great idea as it possesses a high return on investment ratio.

Since it comes with a TEFC motor so you don’t have to worry at all about either efficiency or reliability.

Not only does the SP3202VSP comes with 8 custom timer functions but also has an integrated programmable digital interface with a 24-hours programmable clock to help you achieve the optimum result with ease.

Furthermore, automatic protection for priming failures, temperature extremes, and voltage fluctuations can be easily achieved with the help of the onboard diagnostic feature.

The manufacturer understands the importance of usability and flexibility and thus has given the end-users an option of a wall-mount kit.

Needless to say, the set-up and installation process is NOT only easy and smooth but also less time-consuming.

All in all, a highly energy-efficient variable speed pool pump that is capable of replacing full-rate high-performance pumps up to 1.5 full-rate or 2.0 max-rate HP.

Check Hayward SP3202VSP 1.85 HP Variable-Speed Pool Pump, TriStar VS Price On Amazon

Best-Rated 3.0 HP Variable Speed Pool Pump Review

In case, you don’t find the aforementioned pool pumps significant enough to cater to your swimming pool power requirement then stay with us as we’re gonna discuss some really powerful and performance-driven 3 HP variable speed pool pumps in a while.

Sounds GREAT?

Pentair 011028 IntelliFlo VS Pool Pump, Almond

To be honest, the Pentair 011028 is one of the best variable speed pool pumps available right now on the market, and the reason why I’m saying this is because the pump has performed extremely well on most of the parameters that we’ve set for the evaluation.

As compared to other variable pumps in the “3 HP category” the Pentair 011028 IntelliFlo has completely dominated, and I along with my team was surprised to see such extraordinary performance.

The pump comprises 8-programmable speed settings as well as a built-in timer to help you with the water circulation and filtering of your pool in an effective way.

The user-friendly nature of the control panel helps you in easy programming and monitoring of the entire process.

On top of it, if you’re a technology-driven individual then definitely you’ll cherish the mobile device features of this pump which was made possible just because the pump interfaces perfectly with the Pentair automation systems.

Considering the demand and importance of quiet operation and longer lifespan the manufacturer has inculcated totally enclosed fan-cooled design.

Furthermore, the installation process is newbie-friendly, easy, simple, and wouldn’t consume a lot of your time, and credit goes to the top-mounted field wiring compartment that the pump comes with.

Since the pump is energy star certified so you can expect it to be up to 90 percent energy efficient as compared to an ordinary single-speed pump.

The pump is capable of operating at as low as 45 decibels which makes it 4 times quieter than most traditional pool pumps.

And, the built-in diagnostic features protect the pump from unprecedented situations and thus increase its lifespan.

Even on the compatibility front, the pump has scored significantly higher, and many first-time buyers wouldn’t be aware of the fact that the pump sync well with brands of digital pool/spa controls for managing pump, heating, lighting, etc.

 All in all, the Pentair 011028 IntelliFlo is definitely that one variable-speed pool pump that I would love to add to my kitty as a pool owner even though it’s a bit costly but definitely worth the investment. 

I wholeheartedly recommend this idiosyncratic superlative variable speed 3 HP pool pump to all the pool owners whose swimming pool falls in the “small to mid-size pool” category.

Check Pentair 011028 IntelliFlo VS Pool Pump, Almond Price On Amazon

Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo Variable Speed High-Performance Pool Pump, 3 Horsepower, 230 Volt, 1 Phase – Energy Star Certified

Pentair is a well-known and well-established brand that has proven its mettle time and again by introducing energy-efficient and innovative products.

The Pentair 011018 is energy star certified which clearly depicts its energy-saving capability without compromising power or performance.

As per the brand claim, the 011018 is up to 90 percent energy-efficient as compared to the traditional pumps.

And, even in our test, we’ve found that the Pentair 011018 has performed fairly well on the energy-saving parameter.

Well, it wouldn’t be wrong if I’ll say that it completely dominated the 3 HP variable speed pool pump category.

A unique combination of 8 programmable speed settings and a built-in timer ensures that each and every operation is energy efficient along with the optimum outcome.

The built-in diagnostic feature is definitely something to talk about as it enhances the lifespan of the pump to a great extent by doing an early diagnosis of the problem.

Moreover, I give full marks to Pentair 011018 on the compatibility score in the 3 HP category as it can sync very well with IntelliTouch, EasyTouch, and SunTouch pool control systems.

Similarly, if you’re looking for an ultra-quiet variable speed pool pump then definitely Pentair 011018 could be a good bet as it produces a noise of just 45 decibels which is almost 4 times less than the sound produced by most of the traditional pumps.

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I wholeheartedly recommend Pentair 011018 for superior water quality, better filtration, and low operational costs.

Trust me, the Pentair 011018 is one of the best variable speed pool pumps that we tested so far in the 3 HP category, and it’s worth the investment.

Not only does the pump comes with an integrated keyboard but also features a user-friendly LCD screen display to help you with easy reading of energy consumptions detail as well as speed settings.

Even my team has tested the 011018 compatibilities with other brands of digital pool/spa controls for managing pump, heating, lighting, and spa jets, and the result was simply mindboggling.

Check Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo Variable Speed High-Performance Pool Pump Price On Amazon

Hayward SP3400VSP Ecostar Variable-Speed Pool Pump

So, here I come with yet another energy-efficient and powerful variable pump that is meant to deliver high performance without compromising on usability.

Similar to Pentair 011018, the Hayward SP3400VSP is also energy star certified which simply depicts that you’re gonna save a lot on energy bills in the long run especially if your previous pump was a traditional single speed.

Frankly speaking, it comes with idiosyncratic features including a super-efficient permanent magnet, TEFC motor, superlative hydraulic design, etc that is bound to grab your eyeballs.

Personally, I loved the pump’s ability to provide protection against unprecedented situations including priming failures, temperature extremes, voltage spikes, brownouts, etc so even though you’re a beginner you don’t have to worry at all.

In case, you’re planning to buy this little beast then you can expect the time between the cleanings to be extended, and the credit goes to the spacious strainer basket that it comes with, and you know what, the best part is debris and leaves can be easily removed without any hassle because of the no-rib basket design that it possesses.

It also possesses auto-priming capability with suction lift up to 10 feet above water level.

On top of it, the EcoStar SVRS model features an integrated Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) that helps prevent suction entrapment without additional devices.

Like the previous pump, the Hayward SP3400VSP also scored high on the compatibility parameter in our test.

Not only does it comes with 8 custom speeds but also a fully programmable self-contained 24-hour time clock to help you expedite the process in a smooth and hassle-free manner.

I recommend Hayward SP3400VSP for its safety features, compatibility, and water-cleaning ability.

Check Hayward SP3400VSP Ecostar Variable-Speed Pool Pump Price On Amazon

Sta-Rite P6E6VS4H-209L IntelliPro Variable Speed High-Performance Pump, 3 Horsepower, 230 Volt, 1 Phase – Energy Star Certified

The Sta-Rite P6E6VS4H-209L is a variable-speed pool pump that comes with a powerful 3 HP motor that is capable of adjusting the speed as per your pool requirement in real-time.

Moreover, the TEFC motor runs cooler and quieter, and of course, has a longer lifespan as compared to an ordinary single-speed pool pump.

To deal with unprecedented situations, the pump comes with a built-in safeguard feature which also ensures that the pump has a longer lifespan by preventing it from getting damaged.

The pump produces operating noise of as low as 45 decibels which is definitely much lower than the noise produced by a 1.5 HP single-speed pump.

Furthermore, it comes with 8 programmable speed settings so that the process of circulation and filtration can be expedited effortlessly.

Moreover, the built-in timer ensures that the optimum speed is delivered as well as higher efficiency and lower operating cost are met.

All in all, a great variable-speed pool pump will help you reap benefits in the longer run.

Check Sta-Rite P6E6VS4H-209L IntelliPro Variable Speed High Performance Pump Price On Amazon

Pentair 023005 Variable Speed Pool Pump

Another great offering from Pentair 023005 is NOT only cost-efficient but also performance-driven.

Since the pump comes with a TEFC motor so you can expect it to last longer.

It also comprises diamond seals which are made oxidation-resistant to help you get the best value at an affordable price.

The IntelliFlo Variable Speed Pump is NOT ONLY energy-efficient and economical but also powerful and quiet.

Moreover, the robustly constructed and uniquely designed variable speed pump is bound to match your expectation because of the idiosyncratic features that it comes with.

So, what are you waiting for?

Check Pentair 023005 Variable Speed Pool Pump Price On Amazon

Type Of Pool Pumps: Single Speed, Two Speed, And Variable Speed

Well, if you’re a first-time buyer and NOT well-versed with the type of pool pumps, then definitely, you should spend some time reading about them.

However, if you’ve got a scarcity of time, then stay with us as we’ll try to the best of our capabilities to help you get a picture of the type of pool pumps.

Sounds GOOD?

Single-Speed Pool Pump

• Many of you might not be aware of the fact that a single-speed pool pump is traditionally the most commonly installed pump across the globe
• As the name suggests, it’s just a pump running on a single speed and circulating water through the filter until you switch it off
• Single-speed pool pumps are cheaper and possess less upfront cost
• Moreover, single-speed thermoplastic pumps are highly reliable
• In most cases, a single-speed pool pump can account for 25 percent of your energy bills
• Unfortunately, it might be using more energy than any other single appliance in your house
• In simple words, a single-speed pool pump can use three times as much electricity as a typical refrigerator

Dual Speed Pool Pump

• A dual-speed pool pump comprises two settings, that is, full and half speed
• Running at a half-speed would save you on energy costs as circulating water at a slower speed reduces friction significantly
• The 2-speed pool pump performs operation quietly on half speed
• As a pool owner, you should use full speed only when you’re using a pool heater or vacuuming the pool

Variable Speed Pool Pump

• A variable speed pool pump gives you the option to fine-tune to the exact RPM needed to keep water circulating at a healthy speed
• Almost all the variable speed pool pump comes with a permanent magnet motor which is relatively more efficient and also creates much less noise, heat, and vibration
• The upfront cost of a variable speed pool pump is relatively on the higher side but the long-term return is even higher due to a reduction in the energy bills
• A lot of variable-speed pool pumps are fully programmable and also come with a timer that allows you to set the hours and speed for your pool and walk away

Best Setup For A Variable Speed Pool Pump

• In order to get optimum results from a variable-speed pool pump, you need to find the right balance between RPMs and the length of time
• To be honest, you don’t need to run your variable speed pool pump at 3400 RPMs for 24 hours a day
• In fact, the idea of owning a variable speed pool pump is to run it at as low RPMs as possible without compromising on the quality of filtration
• So, as a pool owner, you need to expedite the trial-and-error method to reach the optimum speed
• For example, for the first few days, you might be running your variable speed pool pump at 3000 RPMs to check how your pool looks like and how well the pump has performed
• Say, after a few days, you might dial it down to 2500 RPMs, and then 1600 RPMs, and so hence and so forth
• In the process of dialing down the RPMs, if at any particular RPM, you find the pool water looking hazy or cloudy then definitely you should switch to a higher RPM
• As per my knowledge and experience, I can affirm every pool setup is different, and the trial and error method is the easiest way to find your pump’s sweet spot
• On the other hand, as a pool owner, you need to use high-speed settings when your pool needs more flow
• For example, when you’re cleaning your pool, operating a salt-chlorine generator, or using any water features like jets, in-floor cleaners, or waterfalls, you need to ensure that you’re running your variable-speed pool pump on high-speed
• At the same time, it is equally important that you pay attention to the minimum flow rates required for these items
• Some of my clients who own a variable speed pool pump complained that their pump isn’t strong enough to cater to the pooling requirement but the reality was a bit different, in fact, they were running their variable speed pump below the minimum RPMs

How to save money using a variable pool pump?

Well, if you’re a pool owner like me who wants to save money on energy bills, then definitely, you should opt for a variable-speed pool pump and NOT a single-speed pool pump.

The thing that differentiates a variable-speed pool pump from its single-speed counterpart is its ability to lower the motor’s RPMs to the minimum speed needed to turn the motor over or to maintain your pool equipment.

You might not believe but it’s true that a variable-speed pool pump can cut associated energy costs by up to 90%.

The good thing about running a pump at a slower speed is that you’re using less KW or energy, and this translates to lower energy bills.

As discussed earlier also, as a variable speed pool pump owner, your primary goal should be to find the lowest RPMs at which you can run the pump successfully and yet sustain a clean pool.

Benefits of a Variable Speed Pool Pump

Let’s have a quick look at some of the benefits of a variable-speed pool pump.

Low Noise

If you’re looking for a quieter pool pump then definitely you should opt for a variable speed pool pump.

In fact, a variable-speed pool pump is quieter as compared to a single or dual-speed pool pump because the former comes with something called Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) motor.

Furthermore, the variable speed pool pumps are not only quieter but are also better isolated from outside conditions.

Energy Efficient

As compared to an ordinary single-speed pool pump, a variable-speed pool pump can save you roughly $1000 dollars per year on your electricity bills.

In fact, they come with a longer lifespan so saving can really add up over time.

Longer Lifespan

Since these variable speed pool pumps are uniquely designed so they last longer as compared to an ordinary pump.

In fact, experts have claimed that variable-speed pumps can last approximately three times longer than any ordinary pump.

Moreover, they also run more efficiently so that the motor is NOT overly stressed.

Technologically Advanced

Well, almost all the variable speed pool pumps come with advanced technology, and the best part is that they are controlled digitally.

Another good thing about them is that they come with some pre-programmed settings to choose from or even you can set it yourself.

Frankly speaking, I love the self-diagnostics feature of these variable speed pool pumps as they ALERT me when there is any problem within the pump.

So, I get a chance to address the issue when it is small and thus prevent it from becoming a bigger issue.

Why shouldn’t I buy a variable-speed pool pump?

Let’s discuss some of the drawbacks that might prevent you from buying a variable-speed pool pump.

Cost

First and foremost, if you’re on a shoestring budget then definitely, a variable pool pump is NOT for you because it is likely to cost you around 3 times as much as a single or dual-speed pool pump.

But, if you’ll consider the fact that a variable speed pool pump also lasts three times more and can save you up to $1000 in energy bills per year then you might find it a good deal.

More Technology Than Needed?

Well, if you’re not a technology-driven person on you don’t enjoy too much automation then definitely a variable-speed pump might offend you.

In case, you fall in the category of “technology challenged” pool owners then you might find it difficult to operate the pump.

Of course, complexity brings an additional expense in terms of repair and maintenance costs.

Definitely, Not For Every Pool

Yes, you heard it RIGHT!

A variable-speed pool pump is definitely NOT for every pool.

Wait…A Sec…

Let’s say you’re an owner of an extremely large swimming pool that consistently has lots of swimmers so there would be a demand for the pump to run at maximum RPM.

And, as a result, you might not find lots of benefits running a variable speed pool pump at a lower RPM.

So, it’s better to opt for a single-speed pool pump as mostly you would be operating the pump at the highest RPM.

Even choosing a two-speed pool pump wouldn’t benefit you at all.

Buyer’s Guide

In this section, I would be walking you through the various aspects of a variable-speed pool pump to help you make an informed buying decision.

In fact, even though you’re a first-time buyer still you’ll not find any difficulty in making a buying decision if you’ll thoroughly consume the below-mentioned information.

On the other hand, skipping this section might end up buying the wrong variable speed pool pump.

What Size Variable Speed Pool Pump Should I Buy?

For getting the maximum benefits from your variable speed pool pump, it is really important that invest in the right pump.

Buying the wrong size pool pump can backfire on you in all senses as it can completely negate all the energy and efficiency that you might be gaining from a variable speed pool pump.

So, it is highly recommended that you know the water volume and size of your pool pump.

Water Volume

You don’t need to be a technical person to find the volume of your pool.

And, if you’re a pool owner like me who has installed the pool yourself then the probability is quite high that you might be having the numbers right on your finger.

Even you can find a pool volume calculator online to help you with calculating the volume of your pool.

You can use the below formula to calculate the volume of your pool if it is square or rectangular:

Volume = Length * Width * Average Depth * 7.5

For the round or oval pool, I would suggest you should use an online calculator as the calculation might be a little trickier.

Flow Rate

Definitely, the flow rate is an important parameter and you can’t ignore it if you’re planning to buy a variable-speed pool pump.

A variable pool pump should be able to recycle the entire water of your pool every 24 hours in order to keep the pool clean and free from germs, fungi, and algae.

Before buying a variable-speed pool pump, it is really important that have a fair idea about the minimum flow rate needed for your pool.

So, the question arises, how can we calculate the minimum flow rate, right?

First of all, you need to find out the volume of your pool in gallons units and then divide by 1440.

Well, 1440 is nothing but minutes in a day.

The unit for the flow rate is Gallon Per Minute.

Minimum Flow Rate (GPM) = Pool Volume/1440

In other words, the minimum flow rate can be defined as the least amount of water your pool pump must circulate through the filtration system in order to achieve the minimum daily turnover.

On the other hand, the maximum flow rate can be defined as the maximum amount of water that your plumbing system can handle in a minute.

By dividing your pool volume by the minimum flow rate, you can get the maximum flow rate (GPM).

Maximum Flow Rate (GPM) = Pool Volume/Minimum Flow Rate

At the same time, you also need to be well aware of the fact that the maximum flow rating is the largest amount of water that your pool filter can handle.

In fact, you can find it on your pool’s filtration system, or else you can get the details on the manufacturer’s website as well.

With the aforementioned information, you can easily decide the size of the pool pump that you need.

Sizing Options

You can find a wide range of variable-speed pool pumps available on the market including ½, ¾, 1, and 1 ½ HP.

So, you need to figure out the exact size that you need for your pool.

Once you’ve got the calculation in place opt for the one that suffices your requirement.

Plumbing Size

It is really important that as a pool owner for you to consider plumbing pipe size.

Just for your information, if you’re planning to opt for smaller piping such as 1.5″ then let me tell you, it wouldn’t be able to handle high horsepower pumps.

So, my best advice for you could be to select the plumbing pipe size depending on the horsepower of your motor.

Important features to consider…

I hope that now you’re clear with the size of the pool pump that you need.

But, at the same time, there are a few other factors that you shouldn’t ignore when it comes to buying a variable-speed pool pump.

Try to understand, each manufacturer and pump is different so it is important for you to do proper research in order to get the best out of your buck.

Durability

It is a well-known fact that a variable-speed pool pump is far more durable as compared to a single-speed or dual-speed pool pump.

But, at the same time, I can negate the exceptions, right?

Furthermore, you need to make sure that you’re getting a quality product.

Also, look for pumps that come with a longer warranty duration and also are the offering by reputed manufacturers.

Efficiency

Needless to say, a variable-speed pool pump is more efficient as compared to single-speed or dual-speed models.

But, you also need to compare a variable speed pool pump model with another variable speed pool pump model to get the best deal.

One of the easiest ways to gather information about a particular pump is to read online reviews and also do some serious online research.

 Even after you’ve bought a particular pool pump model, it is advisable that you monitor electrical usage for the first 30 to 45 days to decide whether you’re seeing a reduction in your electrical bills or NOT. (Compare energy consumption with the previous model) 

In case, you don’t find the model to be worth the investment the best that you can do is return it.

Well, if you’re a first-time buyer and NOT sure of how to proceed then the best thing that you can do is to look for energy star certified models that are known to be highly cost-effective.

You can find quite a few of them in our product review post.

Control

At times, you might be needing your pump to run at maximum flow.

Well, after adding chemicals to my pool, I prefer to run the pump at maximum flow in order to get the chemicals circulating and working quickly.

So, always look for pumps that come with flexible settings and allow you to put your pump on maximum speed whenever it is required.

FAQs

As promised to you, in this section, I would be responding to the queries related to the best variable speed pool pumps to help you clear most of your doubts if NOT ALL.

Moreover, if you’ve any doubts or queries that we haven’t covered then feel free to ask us in the comment section.

How long does a variable-speed pool pump last?

As discussed earlier, a variable-speed pool pump lasts longer as compared to a single/dual-speed pool pump.

In fact, you can expect a variable-speed pool pump of high quality to last somewhere around 12 to 15 years.

However, it also depends on whether you bought a pump from a top brand or a cheaper version.

Needless to say, branded pumps would last longer as compared to their cheap counterparts.

Another thing that might decide how long a pool pump would last is the fact that how frequently you use the pool pump.

The lesser you use the pump the longer it will last but of course, exceptions are bound to be there.

Lastly, maintenance is everything. You might have a top-of-the-range pool pump but in the lack of maintenance and care, it might not serve you longer.

Which is the most energy-efficient pool pump model?

Well, variable speed pool pump models are more energy-efficient as compared to single/dual speed pump models.

However, in some cases, you might not find much difference, and buying a variable-speed pool pump might not serve you the purpose.

For example, if you’re buying a variable speed pool pump for a very large swimming pool that is used on a regular basis by a good number of swimmers then the probability is very high that using a variable pool pump might not give you similar benefits as you would’ve got using it for a small or mid-sized pool pump.

What is the best variable speed pool pump?

To be honest, there are quite a few high-quality variable-speed pool pumps available on the market.

However, whether a pump is best for you or not totally depends upon whether it is able to cater to your need or NOT.

Moreover, it should also fall well within your budget.

In case, you want to know my favorite best variable speed pool pump, then please click this link without fail. (The link will navigate to Amazon)

It’s A Wrap

First of all, I would like to thank you for staying with us till the end.

I hope you would’ve thoroughly enjoyed this idiosyncratic superlative comprehensive buying guide on the best variable speed pool pump.

In case, you’ve not found your favorite variable speed pool pump model on our list then let us know about it in the comment section.

We would love to evaluate it and update you about its PROS and CONS.

To be honest, all the pumps that were made to our list are of high quality and would be a great investment, indeed.

Last but not least, share this piece of information with the ones who are in need of it.

After all, sharing is caring, isn’t it?