Top 5 Best Variable Speed Pool Pump

Variable speed pool pumps come with a lot of upsides, including savings and performance over the traditional pool pumps. However, there are dozens to hundreds of pool pumps out there, which makes choosing the best variable speed pool pump a bit tricky.

Most first-timers often think models from a reputable brand known to offer high-quality equipment is the right pick to suit their needs. Selecting the best unit requires a bit of looking around and research.

Fortunately, here’s a review guide with the top-rated five best variable speed pool pumps to ensure an hassle-free decision-making process and increase your confidence.

Top 5 Best Variable Speed Pool Pump on the Market

Top 1 – Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo Variable Speed High-Performance Pool Pump

 

The Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo Variable Speed High-Performance Pool Pump is an ideal choice for pool owners looking to save more money using this type of pump. This product has a massive eight easily programmable speed options to achieve your desired speed for specific operation throughout the day. As a result, pool owners cut cost running this pump at low speed and achieve optimal efficiencies.

That’s not all: this model runs exceptional quiet than most models on the market, with an impressive 45 decibels. You should expect this high performing pump to be a lot quiet than a comparable fixed-speed pool pump.

More so, Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo Pump works well with a wide range of brand’s control systems including SunTouch, EasyTouch, IntelliTouch, and others. Consequently, this pump is easy to integrate into any water control system in your house like spa jets, lighting, heating, etc.

Unfortunately, this model comes with a downside. Its programming is complicated and requires having an expert to install and ensure the programming is correctly done. Still, this product comes top place with its remarkable energy-saving and efficiency on our list.

Pros:

• Eight-speed setting option
• High efficiency
• Quiet operation
• Compatible with most control systems
• LCD display

Cons:

• Complicated programming

Top 2 – Hayward SP3206VSPVR 2.7 HP Variable-Speed Pool Pump, TriStar VS

 

The Hayward SP3206VSPVR 2.7 HP Variable-Speed Pool Pump is another impressive model for anyone shopping for a high-quality variable speed pump. What we love about this unit is its Energy Star certification. This approval ensures pool owners can save more money on their monthly electricity bill.

Even better, some electric companies offer an abatement for installing an energy-saving pump with Energy Star certification, which helps you save a whole lot on installation cost. Also, it features a smart technology to help avoid suction entrapment, without having to purchase and install an aftermath safety equipment.

Compared to other models, this pump is easy and straightforward to install without any professional help. Also, you can easily program this unit, which is an edge in the market. Sadly, this unit runs a bit loud, but for those with an enclosure, the noise level would not be noticeable.

Above all, this unit is a right pump if you are looking to save more money, and if not for the high noise level this model would have been top of our list.

Pros:

• Energy Star approved
• Easy to program
• Easy installation
• Helps avoid suction entrapment

Cons:

• High noise level

Top 3 – Hayward SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump

 

The Hayward SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump is less powerful than Hayward SP3206VSPVR 2.7, but it comes with a lot of great features. Like the previously-reviewed model, this unit features the Energy Star certification.

Consequently, you don’t have to spend more on energy bill each month compared to a fixed-cost pump. Besides, it allows you to enjoy abatement from most electric companies when installing this unit.

Even better, this model comes with a relatively easy to program system, which means you don’t have to call in a professional to help with the installation. Plus, the programming doesn’t take a lot, and in a couple of minutes, you should be done.

On the flip, the Hayward SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump is not of the quiet model with a higher noise level when operating at higher speeds. This can be really annoying except your pump is placed in an enclosure which can help reduce the noise level dramatically.

Unlike the previous one, this pump comes at a more affordable price but doesn’t offer the exact durability. The motor is suitable for medium-sized pools and provides the most efficient filtration and clean process; thanks to its multiple speed options. This pool equipment from Hayward sports extra-large, no-rib basket to ensure leaf, dirt, and debris are removed while offering longer times between cleaning.

Moreover, you will be investing a permanent magnet, TEFC motor (totally enclosed fan cooled) which guarantees incredible efficiency and reliability.

Pros:

• Energy Star approved
• Easy programming and installation
• 65 HP motor
• Heavy-duty construction
• Eight different timer options for energy efficiency

Cons:

• The durability is not up to par with previous models
• A bit noisy

Top 4 – Sta-Rite P6E6VS4H-209L IntelliPro Variable Speed High-Performance Pump

 

This model from Sta-Rite is another strong unit earning a spot on our list. For larger pool owners, Sta-Rite P6E6VS4H-209L IntelliPro Variable Speed High-Performance Pump could be the way to go. Unlike Hayward models reviewed in this list, it runs more quietly, so if the noise level is on top of your consideration, then this model could be work for you.

This model is touted as an Energy Star certified like the Hayward pumps; meaning you will get a rebate when installed by an electric company. Further, this pump will still help cut cost on your monthly electric bills. Sadly, this model has some quality control problems. Some units arrive with issues such as non-functioning parts or cracks, which means the package was not properly sorted out at the factory.

On the same note, Sta-Rite P6E6VS4H-209L IntelliPro Variable Speed High-Performance Pump is not a very durable option. In the first three years of purchase, a considerable number of swimming pool pumps break down. However, it’s not always a hassle if the brand honours its warranty.

Unfortunately, the brand is not reputable for honouring their warranty claims, which means when this pump breaks down, customers will have to figure out a solution themselves. Without doubt, this unit will help cut cost on bills and save more money for a short term, but with time, it might become a hassle.

Pros:

• Efficient
• Quiet operation
• In-built safety feature
• Energy saving
• Eight programmable speed option

Cons:

• Quality control issues and poor durability
• Warranty is not always honoured

Top 5 – Blue Torrent Pumps Variable Speed Pool Pump

 

This Energy-Star compliant variable speed pool pump from Blue Torrent is designed to save you from spending a huge amount on the electric bill every summer. Blue Torrent Pumps Variable Speed Pool Pump is a 1.5 HP pump saving up to 80% the energy of most conventional pool pumps.

Coming with a direct connection, this model is wired directly into your electrical system without any hassle. That’s not all: it runs super quiet without compromising functionality day in and day out.

To ensure the unit parts remain dry and clean, this unit’s motor is totally enclosed. Another remarkable feature is its special touchpad, which makes it easy for anyone to use without any challenge. This pump can be purchased for a fraction of the cost, which makes it the cheapest unit on this review. Sadly, this model tradeoff some corners for price.

At lower speed, you should expect less power being deliver, which means for optimal effectiveness this model has to run at high speed. This offset the touted energy-saving by the manufacturer. Also, it’s durability is not up to par, and will likely wear out within three years. Above all, it offers a decent value for the price.

Pros:

• Affordable option
• Quiet operation
• Touchpad controls

Cons:

• Poor durability and instruction

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Variable Speed Pool Pump

Selecting the right pool pump is not an easy decision. The best variable speed pool pump should last for an extended period and can be a worthy investment for pool owners.

Each benefit, features, details, and drawbacks of a variable speed pump pool should be put into consideration before adding any product to your cart.

Performance

How well a variable speed pool pump performs often depend on the size of your pool, considering the unit has to filter and circulate the water without being overtasked. For most medium-sized pools, it’s advisable to go 1.5 – 2.0 Hp motor.

However, the large-sized pools need motors with more horsepower because of the large volumes of water needed to be pulled on an ongoing basis.

Energy Efficiency

Another incredible thing to look out for when purchasing a variable speed pump is its energy-saving efficiency. Unlike the conventional single-speed pool pumps, the right variable speed pump should save up to 90% energy.

This feature allows you to save more on energy bills. Besides, in the long run, this cost savings can equal the extra cost paid in purchasing the pump.

Material

Both the external and internal components should be made of premium, long-lasting materials to increase its reliability and longevity.

Safety Functions

The best variable speed pump to splurge on should have some in-built safety options to ensure its electrical components and motor is protected from water, voltage fluctuations, extreme temperature and chemical hazard.

Installation

Most variable speed pumps are not easy to install and requires a professional to get the best out of it. However, some brands offer modern, compact-design pumps designed for easy installation.

Further, it’s important that the pump is installed by a professional for the first time when setting such a system up. This helps ensure maximum performance and safeguard the manufacturer’s warranty.

Warranty

You need to consider the type of warranty offered by the manufacturer, as this protects you from any manufacturer defects. Keep in mind that product come with a policy that invalidates the warranty if the pump is installed without a professional.

Conclusion

Variable speed pool pumps are exceptional, high performing, and efficient equipment design to make owning a pool affordable.However, choosing the right unit can be tricky based on a large number of these units on the market. But, we’ve reviewed the best variable speed pool pump and included a buying guide to ensure you make an inform decision.