Variable speed pool pumps have been around for over a decade, and for good reason. Variable speed pumps have many advantages over single speed pumps, such as cool, quiet motors, and increased energy efficiency. In this article, we break down the most popular and highest-rated variable speed pool pumps to help you select the right one for you.
What Makes Variable Speed Pumps Superior?
Variable speed pool pumps are superior to traditional single-speed pumps because of their money saving, energy efficiency. This is because they use a permanent magnet motor that allows them to adjust their speed based on the pool’s specific needs. Variable speed pumps can run at a lower speed for longer periods, using less energy, while still maintaining the desired water flow and filtration rate. When you cut speed by half, you reduce the amperage use — what you pay for on electrical bills — by 4x. Savings of 50%–90% over the cost of running a standard pump are possible with a variable speed pump.
In contrast, traditional single-speed pumps operate at a fixed speed, 3,450 RPM, and can only be turned on or off, which can waste energy and causes higher energy costs. Variable speed pumps also tend to last longer than traditional pumps, because they operate at lower speeds and have fewer mechanical stresses on the pump’s components.
What’s the Best Variable Speed Pump for Your Pool?
The question is — what is the best variable speed pump for your pool? Not all variable speed pumps are the same size, horsepower ranges from 1.5HP to 3.0HP, and smaller variable speed pumps have 1.5″ plumbing, while larger models work best with 2″ or 2.5″ plumbing sizes.
The most important thing is not oversize your variable speed pump. The larger pumps, 3.0HP, should only be used on large pools with lots of plumbing. The Pentair Intelliflo, for example, is too powerful for the average-sized residential pool, and can end up causing problems.
The second most important thing to remember is pipe size. 2″ PVC pipe allows much more water to flow, with much less resistance. If you have 1.5″ pipe, consider replacing the above ground plumbing with 2″ PVC pipe and sweep elbows.
Most Popular Variable Speed Pumps
Here we look at keyword search volume on google. Which pump is being searched for the most online?
- Pentair Intelliflo VS
- Hayward Super Pump VS
- Hayward TriStar VS
- Pentair SuperFlo VS
- Pentair IntelliFlo VS+SVRS
Most Sold Variable Speed Pumps
Here we look at some sales data for the last five years, and consider purchases as a proxy for pump popularity.
- Pentair Intelliflo VS
- Pentair IntelliFlo VS+SVRS
- Pentair SuperFlo VS
- Hayward Super Pump VS
- Hayward TriStar VS
Highest Rated Variable Speed Pumps
The following variable speed pumps earned their spot at the top thanks to their energy efficiency, circulation power, and ease of use.
- Pentair IntelliFlo VS+SVRS
- Pentair SuperFlo VS
- Hayward Super Pump VS
- Hayward TriStar VS
- Jacuzzi JVS165
- Jacuzzi JVS185
- Jacuzzi JVS270
| Make/Model | Horsepower | Voltage | Speeds | Union Size | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Pentair Intelliflo VS/SRVS | 3 | 230V | 8 | 2″ x 2.5″ | 2 Years |
 | Pentair SuperFlo VS | 1.65 | 115/230V | 4 | 1.5″ x 2″ | 1 Year |
 | Hayward Super Pump VS | 1.65 | 230V | 8 | 1.5″ | 1 Year |
 | Hayward TriStar VS | 1.85 | 115/230V | 8 | 1.5″ x 2″ | 1 Year |
 | Jacuzzi JVS165 | 1.65 | 115/230V | 8 | 1.5″ x 2″ | 2 Years |
 | Jacuzzi JVS185 | 1.85 | 115/230V | 8 | 2″ x 2.5″ | 2 Years |
| Jacuzzi JVS270 | 2.7 | 115/230V | 8 | 2″ x 2.5″ | 2 Years |
So remember – the larger 3 HP variable speed pumps are for very large pools, or pools with high flow demands, for large spas, water features. At least 4 pipes coming in, and 4 pipes going back to the pool, and all done in 2″ PVC plumbing.
For the average residential pool, the 1.5 HP variable speed pumps are best suited to the pipe size, water volume and filter design flow rate. The Hayward Super Pump, TriStar, Pentair SuperFlo, or Jacuzzi JVS185S pumps are the best options for most residential pools.
Like electric vehicles, now every manufacturer has their own variable speed pumps on the market. See our full line up online of a dozen different models to choose from!
I’m having a 30×19 pool built and was wondering whether to go with Hayward Ecostar or Pentair VS 3HP IntelliFlo? I’m looking for efficiency and best user friendly.
Armando, between those two choice, I hear better reviews/reports on the Intelliflo pump. Ecostar is also a good pump, but I hear too many reports of drive problems with it (subjective I know). Both may be too large (?) for your pool however? Or too big for your filter? These are large pumps (3 hp), built for pools with attached spas, 2 skimmers + drain, water features, etc. And, you must have 2″ plumbing at a minimum. If your pool is smaller, and the filter and pipes are smaller, look at the Pentair SuperFlo VS. I should also say that being variable speed, the larger pump will work fine, if used only at lower speeds, but then, why have a V-8 engine, if you never take it out of third gear? (to use an automotive analogy…)
Hi Davy – Looking to replace my 1 HP Hayward Super Pump 700 with a variable speed model. This is for a 22,000 gallon pool (18×36 w/ deep end). Any recommendations? I was told the intelliflo, but after reading this it seems it may be overkill. Current pipes are 1.5″ I believe and 1 skimmer. 1st year pool owner so a little lost. Thanks in advance.
Hi John, yes the IntelliFlo is over-sized and over-priced 🙂 You’ll do fine with a smaller pump like the Hayward Super pump VS or the Pentair SuperFlo VS, or the Waterway Power Defender 140 VS… all found here: https://intheswim.com/c/variable-speed-pool-pumps/
Hi Davy!
I have a 12x24ft oval pool 42″ deep and am looking to replace the sand filter and pump. Currently I have a Niagara 1hp pump with RX clear 22″ sand filter. The sand filter is constantly breaking the clamp rings at the top and the pump costs a lot to run. I would like to replace both with a VS pump that could also run 2 4×20 roof mounted solar panels. Any recommendations?
Hi Robert, you may consider the Hayward ProSeries S210T filter, and match it with a Waterway 140 VS pump.
Hi we have a 35,000 gallon pool with 1.5 inch plumbing. Which VS pump would you recommend? Replacing a Hayward single speed that burned. Thanks!
Hi Mike, The Pentair Superflo VS or the Hayward Superpump VS would both be good choices. See all VS pumps here: https://intheswim.com/c/variable-speed-pool-pumps/ Also check your filter label for design flow rate listed. If it is over 100 GPM, and you have either an attached spa or water feature(s), you could go with a larger VS pump, like the TriStar VS or the Waterway 270 VS, or the IntelliFlo VS.
Thanks – any recommendations on flow / turn over rate for 28k gallons? The previous owner gave us the builder contact info, and I had a conversation with them when we moved in. Their recommendation is to keep the pump running 24/7 @ 2300rpm – again, feels too much / too high. I just ordered a flow meter so I can better understand what I’m working with.
Yes, the rule of thumb is to divide gallons by 480, to get the desired GPM flow rate, to achieve an 8-hour turnover (8 x 60 mins = 480). so. 28000/480=58 GPM. However, in practice with a VS pump, you would run it longer and slower, not just run it for 8-hours and then off for 16-hours. In practice, you’d want to run it around 1200 RPM for 18-hours daily, broken up by two 3-hour periods of 3250 RPM (high speed). So like 9-hours low, 3-hrs high, 9-hours low, 3-hours high…, but your experience will be the best teacher, you may want more high speed at certain times of day, for cleaning, heating, sanitizing or water feature functions 🙂 – or may decide that you don’t need to run it 24/7, but can cut the 9-hour periods down to 6-hours each, and run only 18-hours per day total. 6/3/6/3… or maybe you don’t even need 6-hours daily of high speed, could be a more medium speed, or just 2 hours on high. Can depend on how good your filter is – but no matter what program you use, remember that you should turnover ALL of the water in the pool, thru the filter, at least once every 24-hours. Smaller, less effective filters may need twice. Warmer water also needs more daily filtration.
We inherited a pool from a previous owner – it’s 19×38 with a deep end, about 28k gallons. The pool is 7 years old with an IntelliPro VS 3hp pump. 1 skimmer, 2 floor mains, 2 return jets, with a 3rd return through a booster pump for a cleaner, but no longer used (still some flow). The lines are all 1.5″ except at the pad, where they merge to 2″ into the pump, but 1.5 out, through the 24″ cristal flo II sand filter, heater, SWG and back to the pool.
Lately, the pump has started to get noisy, so I’m not sure if replacement is in the future. The pump seems oversized relative to the piping – should I be looking at a 1.5hp VS, or should the pad be upsized to flow 2″ all the way through? Not sure that’s much help starting at only two 1.5″ inlets (1 for the two combined floor drains, 1 skimmer). Appreciate your thoughts.
Hi Jason, yes my thoughts exactly, too big for your pool. In fact the Intelliflo is too big for most pools. 3-HP Intelliflo pumps are best suited for a pool with 2 skimmers, plus attached spa, plus some kind of waterfall or fountain feature, or a larger size of 40K-60K gals. For your pool (pipe size, filter size, gallons and 1-SK, 1-MD, 2-Return set-up…) I would recommend the Pentair SuperFlo VS pump, or one of the other smaller 1.5 hp +/-, that are now available, like the Hayward Superpump VS, or the Waterway Power Defender 140 >>> https://intheswim.com/c/variable-speed-pool-pumps/ This will save you more energy costs too, having the smaller motor. If possible to upsize the return-side pipe (after the filter to the ground), to 2″, that would be a good move, and use 2″ sweep elbows too, also from pump to filter, use sweep 90. Also want 10-12″ of straight-run PVC pipe coming into front of pump (no 90’s)
Hi
Thank you for all the info you provide. We are in the process of ordering a 20×40 rectangle inground flat bottom pool. It will be about 22,000 gallons. We will have 2 skimmers, 1 return and no main drain. I believe the plumbing will be 2″ and we will use a 30″ sand filter. We plan on having 5 deck jets. What is the best size VS pump to go with? There are so many opinions and choices! Any input is greatly appreciated as this is all new to us. Thanks!
Hi Betty, you can use the Pentair SuperFlo VS pump, or the IntelliFlo, but you really won’t need that much flow, so I’d save a few bucks and put on the SuperFlo VS.
very useful & informative article. thanks for sharing this
Hello Davy. We have a 13,500 gallon inground pool plus about a 350 gallon spa. We don’t know how old the current pump is but it’s making a screeching sound when it runs. It’s a Sta-Rite P4E6D-186L which I think is 3/4 hp. Better to fix or replace? We also have an older cartridge filter that we would like to replace with a sand filter. Thoughts on that?
Thank you.
HI Alan, the bearings in the motor are likely making the noise. You can either replace the bearings (but first have to open the motor to see which bearings are used), or replace the motor and the shaft seal, and be back in business for around $250. No need to replace the entire pump. For the filter, for your size pool, I would go with a 24″ sand filter, like the Hayward S244T, or the Pentair TA-60. Or the Pentair SD-80, a 26″ tank.
Thanks for your amazingly quick response. If we replace motor, what specs do I look for?
Hi Alan, you need a square flange 56Y frame, Full-Rated, 3/4 hp, 115V/230V motor. I had linked one that will work, in my previous response, which was also an EE (Energy Efficient) motor. You can find Standard efficiency for a bit less money.
HI DAVY,
I’m in the process of buying my pool from In The Swim and I’m currently trying to design the plumbing system. My oval semi-above ground pool will be a 18’x33’ and 54’’ deep. I would like to have the best and optimal equipment including a cartridge VS filter, pump, salt water system, heater, pipes, elbows and everything necessary to create peace of mind. Please help me to make right choice with equipment and what is your opinion about a manufacturer and installers. I am greatly appreciated for your help.
Hi Val, For a pool that size, I would recommend the Waterway Crystal Water Cartridge Filter, 425 SF, and match it with the Waterway Power Defender 140 VS pump. For salt system, the Aqua Trol system by hayward is very good. You can obtain plumbing fittings and pipe at a local hardware.
Hi Davy,
Our Century B2854 Pump failed and needs to be replaced. It is attached to a Pentair WhisperFlo WF-26. Can we replace just the motor and what would you recommend. Or should we replace both? In ground pool, 17000 gallons, 2″ plumbing. I would be OK with a programmable set-up but not “smart” internet connected. Thnaks for your help.
Hi Jan, you can save money by just replacing the motor and shaft seal, and it’s not any more work than replacing the entire pump. Plus you will not have to throw away the pump, better for the planet! We have a blog post about replacing Hayward motors, it’s the same process for a Pentair > https://blog.intheswim.com/replacing-a-hayward-pump-motor/ – YOu can find the B2854 here. We have the OEM shaft seal, Pentair 071734S, or you can save more money and just use the generic PS-1000 seal.
Hi I have a 35 to 40 k gallon pool it has 3 1.5 intake lines 2 skimmers and a bottom drain. it has 1 1.5 return line to 3 jets there is also 1 1in line to the slide. I’m look for ideas on pump sand filter and salt setup.
Hi Dave; if your pool is 40K gals, you would want to move about 84 GPM, for an 8-hr turnover. For a sand filter with a matching Design Rate of Flow, you want to look at a 30″ to 31″ sand filter, such as the Hayward S310S or S310T2, or Pentair TR100C or the TR140 36″ tank. For the pump, you can use a Pentair Intelliflo VS pump, or a Hayward Max-Flo VS. Or you can stay with a standard, single speed pump such as the Pentair Whisperflo or Hayward Max-Flo XL. For the salt system, I like the Hayward Aquarite system for 40K pools.
Hi Dave, I have a 10’W x 40’L (12,000 gallon) Lap Pool with 2″ PVC pipe on the suction side and 1-1/2″ PVC pipe on the return. The current pool pump is 1 HP and the cartridge filter is a 95 sq ft cartridge filter. What size VS pump and size cartridge filter would you recommend? Thanks!
Hi Daniel, I like to see 10 SF of filter for every 1000 gals, so for a 12K pool, a 120 SF as a minimum, and I’d considered your current 95 SF to be a little small. For the filter, I like the StarClear Plus C1200 120SF, $489, or the Jacuzzi JC150 150 SF for $399, and if you really want to go big, and have cartridges that need cleaning like once per year, and last twice as long, look at the Waterway Crystal Water 325 SF filter for $699. For the pump, you want one of the small ones, not an Intelliflo, EcoStar, MaxFlo XL, or other 2+ HP VS pumps, they are too large for a small pool, so I like the Pentair SuperFlo VS at $749 and the Hayward Superpump VS Jacuzzi JVX160 at $799, or the Waterway Power Defender 140 at $649. Be sure to use sweep elbows in plumbing from pump to filter and filter to returns, and do it all in 2″, until you connect to the 1.5″ return line, before going into the ground. No straight runs of less than 12″ length, especially in/out of the pump and filter.
Hi Davy, I have a Hayward Super II 2.4 THP pump that is 16 years old. I am looking to up grade to a VSP. My pool is a 10,000 gallon volleyball pool with a 6 person spa.The piping is 2″ with a DE filter. I have a budget between 700 and 800 bucks. Looking at the Hayward W3SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump 1.65HP and the Pentair SuperFlo VS Variable Speed Pump 1.5HP. Are these adequate for my pool or would you go in a different direction? Thanks in advance!
Hi Billy, small pool so not much flow is needed, 21 GPM for an 8-hr turnover of all the water. But you also have a spa, so you want also some oomph from the spa jets. Not sure of filter size, but that’s important too, not to exceed the design flow rate of the filter. Hayward DE3620 is 90 GPM and DE4820 has a 120 GPM ‘design flow rate’, for example. Yours is on the label, or in the brochure under performance data or specs. The MAX-Flo VS or the Superflo VS are both in the sweet spot, and would both be good choices. Hard to choose, flip a coin, or go with the best price, or with your gut! 🙂 Whichever pump you go with, play around with the speeds to see what works best to keep your pool clean. For using the spa, you will just hit the override button to go full speed on the jets.
How to set-up a VS pool pump? Or how to program a VS pump? Most people run a VS Pump like this: 6-8 am high speed, 8-6 pm low speed, 6-8 pm high speed, 8pm-6am Off. Or something like that, or you may like/need a medium setting, or med-high/med-low, for different times of day. You have to consider the pool gallon size too, and be sure that all of the pool water has cycled thru the filter completely, at least once per day, an 8-hr turnover time is standard (on high speed), but it is the same to have a 16-hr turnover on low/med speeds. You may not need high speed at all, maybe not even for the spa, so experiment to best ‘dial-in’ your VS pump. And, sometimes for storms or heavy pool use, or water problems, you will override to higher speeds for water protection or problem resolution.
Hi Davy, My Hayward filter is a DE4820. Thanks so much for the detailed, valuable info.
I am eying the Hayward W3SP2303VSP MaxFlo since I had a very good run with the Super II. It’s still running fine, just not efficiently.
Thanks Billy, you’ll be ‘ahead of the curve’ with a new VS pump, or an ‘early adopter’ – as they will be required after July 2021.
Davy, it is so great to finally talk to someone who responds and knows what they’re talking about! Your site is now bookmarked.
Davy, I never really got clarification myself, so I came back one more time just to clear it up. I have a PB telling me it is okay to run one VS pump for three sheers, (18″, 24″, 18″) and two bubblers as well as all returns, while the other PB said it is okay but that I could just run a VS pump for returns and bubblers then a separate pump for waterfalls. Could you guide me on your best recommendation. I would really like to keep it all on one pump (I’m buying the 2.7hp Tri Star VS from Hayward no matter what) but don’t want to overkill the pump by having all three on it. Also going to do 2/2.5″ plumbing. Thanks for your help again.
Now, I haven’t done any calculations, but I know that sheer descents use a lot of water, especially if you want an unbroken, solid stream. Bubblers also use a good stream of water, to get them to reach a good height of 9-12″. And the problem is that you have to be pumping a lot of water, to feed 3 sheers, 2 bubblers and wall returns – and this is usually too much flow for the filter, which results in poor filtration, unless a bypass is plumbed-in, to allow some GPM to bypass the filter. And you’ll need to run that VS on high speed to run all features, which will remove the benefit of energy savings. Waterfall pumps are also independent of filtering and heating functions, and can run more efficiently, because of less restrictions (one pipe in, one pipe out, no equipment), so they provide a more consistent, high rate of flow, at lower pressure. You could do it all with one pump, but it will put a strain on the one pump, and you may not get all features to run strongly, I suspect the sheers would be broken, not solid fans of water, and bubblers may only do 3-6″ height.
Have an Outdoor 17×32 25000 gallon pool inground with 1 1/2 in pvc pipes, also have a Hayward C1200 filter. My 1hp motor died. is it best to get a VS? what size? or a dual speed? or single speed?
How much energy will be saved with the pool running 8 hours a day? how would it be set? thank you.
Stephanie
Hi Stephanie, you could consider the Hayward Superpump VS model, a few hundred dollars more than the regular Superpump. To realize the most savings (and better water quality), you would run it near all the time, say 12-18 hrs daily on low speed, and then 4-6 hrs daily on a higher speed. You may not need to use max-speed. It could reduce your pump energy use by 50%, which compared to a daily 8-hr run of a 1-hp pump, could save you $1-2 per day, or possibly $50 per month, if you live in an energy poor expensive electricity state.
Davy,
I am in the process of buying a pool kit that will be installed. I am looking at a Lagoon with anywhere from 25-30k gallons of water. I will have two bubblers, and possibly three sheer descents (at most). I may only do one sheer descent. What size HP pump do you recommend. I would like to to VS as well. Would I need to consider a different size HP pump if I only do the one descent versus the three, or would you recommend the same pump either way. Also, the builder said he prefers to do 1.5″ PVC because that is what has worked best for him. Should I ask him to do 2″ PVC for such a large pool and many water features?
Thanks Davy
Hi Tyler, the best thing would be to do the sheer descents on a separate pump, using a waterfall pump (which is exempted from new VS regulations). The waterfall pump would draw from a dual main drain placed near the floor or on the sidewall of the deep end, and pump to just the sheer descents. The filter pump could pump to wall returns and/or bubblers. I would recommend two inch pipe for both waterfall pump and filter pump, for reduced restriction and energy savings. For the filter pump, look for something in the 1.65 HP range, like the Pentair Superflo pump. Pentair Intelliflo could also be used, if your filter is large enough to handle 125 GPM. The large cartridge filters of 400-500 sq ft or DE filters of 48-60 sq ft or sand filters of 30″ diameter can usually handle such speeds. Your builder can do the calculations to compute the feet of head in the system, and with that number and the Design flow rate for the filter, you can use the VS pump flow curves to choose the most appropriate size pump.
So you do not recommend getting like a 2.7 or 3HP pump to run the water descent features on? Is that possible or just best to avoid? I will let my PB know to use 2″ PVC if possible.
Thanks
It could be useful or necessary if you had 3 sheer descents, which use a lot of water – it depends on the length, they come in different sizes, (Sheer Descents). For one that would seem like overkill. I would defer to your builder, because he will have all of the data, and to make the Sheer Descent ‘Sheer’, and not ‘broken-up’, one needs to be careful in matching pump size or flow rate. If unsure, then a variable speed may be a safe bet, because you will be able to dial-in or increase/decrease the flow to get the right amount of flow, so it looks best.
I have a kidney shaped pool with about 20,000 gallons. 33 ft long by 15 ft about 3.5 ft in shallow and 7 in deep end. My single speed pump fail. What size should I get? 2 in pipe. I have a spa, round about 5 feet diameter. No water feature. 1 skimmer. It is what I would call a basic pool.
Hi Pierre, the largest of VS pumps will be too powerful for a small pool, and a small filter, even though you may want extra oomph for the spa jets. We now have a new Variable Speed pool pump web page, with 11 VS pumps to choose from: https://www.intheswim.com/c/variable-speed-pool-pumps – For your pool I would recommend the medium head VS pumps, either the Hayward Superpump VS or the Pentair Superflo VS pump.
I have about 13,500 gallon oval pool. I’ve calculated 28.2 GPM and I have about 165 horz feet of 1.5″ pipe and about 9ft of vertical pipe (22 elbows and 3 tees). There is also a sand filter. I’m not sure about the Feet Of Head calculation, but even if I had that, i’m not seeing any pumps for sale with selection criteria that includes any of this. They just give voltage and HP. How do I cross reference my pool data into a HP for the pump I need?
Hi David, great question. VS pumps now come in a few sizes, or horsepowers, ranging from 1.4 HP to 4.0 HP. Or Total Horsepower I should say. Many of the large VS pumps are simply too large for most pools, and are better suited for large pools with attached spas and water features, such as the Eco-Star and the IntelliFlo. Smaller VS pumps, such as The SuperFlo or Superpump, or the Waterway 140, or the Jacuzzi JVX160, have fewer features, and less programmable speeds, but are usually a better choice for the average pool, with 1.5″ pipes and filters with “Design Flow Rates” of around 75 GPM. The larger VS pumps mentioned above, can push over 125 GPM on high speeds, which is far too much for smaller filters and pipes, creating too much resistance and ineffective filtration, and could actually break something, and not give the energy savings desired. The best way to match a VS pump to your filter system is to do what you have done, adding up the 90’s, length of pipe run, valves and other equipment, to come up with an estimated level of resistance, as expressed in ‘Feet of Head’. Most pools will have somewhere around 30-50 Ft of Head, when you add it all up. Some more, some less. THEN… you refer to the PUMP FLOW CHART, aka Flow Curve, and see where the high speed curve line intersects with the line for your estimated feet of head, and make sure it’s not more than 10% or so more than your FILTER Design Flow Rate (found on your filter label, or brochure). For those that still have the original pool builder paperwork, you can usually find the actual Feet of Head calculation printed somewhere on one of the blueprints or documents.
Hi Davy,
I have a 36000 gallon pool (20 x 40). It has 3 intakes and 3 outlets. All pipes are 2 or 2.5 inches. I also have a Triton 2 140c commercial grade sand filter. I’m looking to replace my 1.5hp one speed pump with a variable speed option. What would work for me?
Thanks!
Hi Scott, you are ahead of your time! VS pumps are required in less than 1-year from now. For a pool your size, with 2″ plumbing and 2 skimmers/1 drain, you can look at the Hayward Tri-Star VS, the Pentair IntelliFlo VS, the Waterway 270 VS, or the JVX300 VS pump. You don’t have to stick with Pentair to match the pump. The Design Flow Rate for your filter is 106 GPM.
I’m replacing my pool circulating/filter pump with a variable speed pump to save electricity. Rates where I live are very high, $0.30/KWH. The existing pump is a 3/4 HP Hayward SP 3007 which runs 8-10 hours a day @ 1.27 KW. Pool volume is only 8000 gallons. I thinking of the Hayward TriStar W3SP3206VSP 1.85 HP model. How does that sound? Thanks!
HI Steve, it sounds a little big for such a small pool. The Tri-Star is a high flow pump, capable of 125 GPM at hi-speed. That is probably way beyond the “Design Flow Rate” of your pool filter (?), which you should find on the filter label. A better choice may be the Hayward Superpump VS, a 1.65 hp, medium head pump, which is also cheaper to buy. Or even smaller is the Waterway Power Defender 140 VS Pump, 1.4hp, and only $650 to buy.
Thanks – here’s some more detail related to your response. Filter is a Hayward S244T sand filter, 62 GPM. Pool is far from equipment. Total (round-trip) piping is about 225 feet (2″) with 20-25 elbows in the line. One return at strainer also pulls from one floor drain. Two inlets. No heater cleaning ports or other items in-line.
Hi Steve, at 50 ft of head, the Tri-Star VS will pump 100 GPM on high speed, but would be OK at 3000 RPM. So that could be a good choice, but take notice of performance at high speed.
Thank you. One LAST question if I may – The cost savings is greatest at lower speeds. With 50′ of head, the pump curves for all three Hayward choices show a zero flow rate at any speed less than about 2400 rpm. Does that mean I won’t be able to use lower speeds?
Steve, that’s a good question, and I don’t think it means no flow, but could be low like 20 GPM on low speed, which is fine for low speed, for most pools. That could be question for Hayward, you can try them at (908) 355-7995.
HI DAVY,
I’m in the process of building my pool and I’m currently trying to design the plumbing system. My pool will be a 16’x36’ pool that is 5’ deep in the middle and 4’ on the sides for a sport pool. It will also have an 8’x16’ tanning ledge and 7’ ID square hot tub. Most of the pool companies have quoted me with a 3 HP VS pump. My pump will sit approximately 65’ away from the pool edge. I will be using 2” piping as well. Will one 3 HP VS pump power both the pool and spa? Is it too much? Also, not sure which cartridges are the best. We aren’t looking to go salt either as it is more harsh on my daughters skin. I appreciate any insight you can give me on this!
Hi Shane, the 3-HP VS pump sounds about right, it could be a little large, but with the distance to the pool, and the spa, could be correct. Cartridge filters are all about the same. I like the new Waterway Crystal Water filters, as they have 2.5″ internals (less restriction), and a friendly price, esp the 425 SF model. Waterway also has a 2.7 HP Vs pump
Hi Davy,
One more question, will this pump be the only one i need for the pool, spa, spa jets, and a couple small sheer descent water features, along with a couple bubblers at the tanning ledge?
Thanks again!
Shane, sure, but maybe not all at the same time… Or at least may be unable to run the water features while using the spa jets at full blast.
Hi, I’m currently installing a 16×40’ free form fiberglass pool called the wellspring by Thursday’s pools. My pool is at a standstill because the installers aren’t sure which pump and filter to use. I have 46 5/8 rise from middle of skimmer to 5” above my pad along with 105’ of plumbing. He currently has 2” pipe stubbed or from the return lines. Will he need to go bigger or is 2” ok as well if you could recommend a pump and filter that would work thanks Devon
They should be able to do the calculations to install the correct system, is that not what you pay them for? 2″ pipe will be fine, and if you are looking at VS pumps, go with the larger pumps like the Intelliflo. I like the Waterway filter for value, the Clear Water DE or Cartridge filters. The larger Waterway VS pump is also a good value. The size of the pump is not so much of an issue as the filter. With a 16×40 pool, you’ll want a 48-60 SF DE filter or a 320-520 SF Cartridge Filter. Cartridge filters also have less restriction, due to not having a backwash valve, plus they save water.
Hi,
I have an Aqua Leader above ground pool. It uses just over 15,000 gallons. Could you recommend a VS pump for me?
Hi Mike, something small, such as the Hayward Superpump VS, or the Pentair SuperFlo VS, or the Jacuzzi 160
I have a 20000 gallon pool with a 300lb Hayward filter (62 GPM design flow rate). The piping is 1.5 inch.
I am looking for a variable speed pump, but I don’t understand the difference between the different models (Super Pump versus TriStar, etc).
Would the Superflo work on my pool?
Yes, the Superflo VS or the Superpump VS would be a good choice for your pool. VS pumps are now divided among the 2.7 Hp and the smaller 1.5 Hp models. For a pool with a large volume (30-50K gals), or with an attached spa, and/or water features, the larger pump can be useful, but for smaller simpler pools like yours, the smaller pumps are better suited.
Hello. I have an older system about 25 years old. I’m looking to make some changes. It has 2 pumps a 1.5hp main pump that runs 1 skimmer and main drain with 2 pop-ups. There is also a 1hp that runs the cleaning jets. The plumbing is all 2″ supply and discharge. I’m hoping to run a single vs pump for everything. Most say to run a single 3hp vs pump but you said on smaller pools this could introduce problems. My pool is 20,500 gallon with no spa or heater. The filter was just replaced with a large WaterWay filter. I’m new to all this so just looking for some unbiased input from some who isn’t necessarily trying to sell me something. Thank you for your time.
Mike
Nice choice on the filter, so you have two pumps – I like the idea of one, maybe you can look at the 1.65 hp VS pumps, I dont’ think you need the larger flow pumps, with such a small pool, you only need to filter 45 GPM, to keep a 21K pool clear. And lower flow and lower speeds, is how you save money with a VS pump.
Hello, I’m struggling with figuring out my Pump size. My pool volume is about 60k gallons. My inlets are all 1.5″. I’m going to replace the skimmer inlets to 2″, however, there’s no way i can reach my pool floor inlet, so that’ll probably stay at 1.5″. All outlets are 1.5″. I’m thinking of the Pentair Intelliflo. I’m not sure if that’s too big or not.
Hi Fausto, for 60,000 gallons, you want be pushing around 125 GPM, to filter all of the water within an 8-hour period. The intelliflo can do that, and then some. See the flow curve https://www.intheswim.com/images/products/SKU20015/E2859_broch.pdf
I live in Florida and am in need of replacing both my pump and cartridge filter. Current set-up:
20,500 gallons
Single stage pump (believe it is original Pentair) with Century HSQ220 2hp replacement motor
2” PVC piping
Sta-Rite PLM 150 Cartridge Filter
Hayward AquaRite Salt Chlorinator
I’m debating whether I should replace the pump with a single stage or variable. I understand that variable is much more energy efficient, but the pump is almost double the cost of a single stage. Utility rates are cheap in Florida and not sure the payback is there by the time I would have to replace the motor. What are your thoughts on that? Also, If I went with a Pentair VS pump, I believe they only come in 1.5hp or 3hp. Is 1.5hp enough? Is 3hp overkill in terms of performance and price. Lastly would which specific pump would you recommend?
Cartridge Filter: I was think of upgrading to a Pentair CC200 as opposed to going with a 150. The cost to upgrade is nominal and I’ve read that bigger is always better with a filter. Thanks in advance for your thoughts
Hi, a 2hp standard motor can really run up electrical usage. Not sure if you ever have calculated the amount of energy the pool pump uses, but in florida, it might be responsible for half of your monthly bill. Not sure if that would be considerable, but if it is – I would go with the Pentair Superflo VS, and couple it with the Waterway 425 sq ft filter, which is only $100 more than what you can buy the CC200 for, but is over twice the filter. You could go a year (!) between cleanings, and the cartridges would last much longer, maybe 10 years, between new. Next year, 2021, all new pumps are required to be VS, so buy now if you want one! You could install a 1-hp Standard Pentair Superflo for $300 less, and also save electricity, as the 2hp you have sounds like overkill, unless you have a spa, or large water features.
Hello there! I live in NY and presently have an in ground pool (22x11x4.5 ft depth)with a pool capacity of 6,000 gallons, 32 ft of head(pump to return) using a cartridge filter (50gpm). I’m trying to decide which vs pump to purchase. Pentair SuperFlo vs Hayward superpump. I’m working with 115 volts and the pump would be no more than a few feet above the water level of the pool.I was wondering which do you think is preferable for this situation and why?
Mike, both pumps are similar, in fact Superflo was made as a retrofit replacement for the very popular Superpump. I think I like the superflo lid and basket design a bit more, just a personal preference, but other than that they are very similar.
Hi, I have a 2,700 gal pool, approximately 3ft to 9ft with a old Hayward pump. Also I have a solar heater on the roof (2 story). I’m debating new pumps, intelflo or Jandy pump. Any recommendations? Or reviews on Jandy?
Thanks
I’ve not heard much about the Jandy VS pumps, but as you may know, Pentair Intelliflo started the game. I have seen or heard that the Pentair VS pumps seem to be the most reliable and with the most advanced controllers. Jandy is a fine company as well, and I’m sure that they have a very inventive, feature packed VS pump, I just have less direct experience with it, so far. By next July 2021, all new pumps will need to be VS, so we’ll have much more information.
Hi Davy, I have Hayward EcoStar SP3400VSPVR 2HP 2.7THP pump for a 15000 gallons pool with a spa. I have two skimmers, a bottom drain, 8 returns in pool and another 8 in the spa. The pump stopped working. Which pump would you recommend? I would not like to under size as spa returns will have reduced pressure. Please advise. Thanks.
Hi, you could install the Pentair IntelliFlo VS, or the Waterway 270 VS, both are of the same size, and well reviewed. The Hayward EcoStar, although I’m sure there are many happy owners, I seem to hear about more problems, than the other two I mentioned.
Hi Davy,
I’m in Florida and I have a 14,000 gallon pool with a spa and the old pump died. I’m planning to upgrade the entire system with a VS pump, new cartridge filter, new piping etc. The piping is 1.5 inches all around. I have some questions if you don’t mind:
1. Does it make sense to increase the diameter to 2″ ground up if the rest remains 1.5″? I get conflicting information from store-to-store.
2. Which pump/filter would you recommend that will support the existing setup and possible future upgrades to some water features like a sun shelf fountain and a couple of sheer decent lips.
3. Any favorite, reliable water heater for the spa? I have gas connections available if needed. Ok with either electric or gas.
I don’t want to overdo it or under-power anything. I just want to do it right and I trust your guidance.
Thanks very much!
Zee
Hi, 1. Yes, I would upgrade all above ground plumbing to 2″, it will reduce restriction, to improve efficiency of the vs pump. Be sure to use Sweep elbows too.
2. I like the Waterway Cartridge filter item E4913. Great Price and HUGE – probably go 6-9 months between cleanings. Also like the Waterway 140 VS pump, item E4901. Or the Pentair Superflo VS, item E2990. A fountain or a single sheer descent of 18-36″ width can work. Two sheer descents needs more water, see the Waterway 270 VS, or the Pentair Intellifl VS. https://www.intheswim.com/c/in-ground-pumps
3. In Florida, pool heat pumps are very popular. And Tropical Heat Pumps are local. I like the TropiCal T75 for a pool your size. Or the AquaPro (also from FLA), 1100E heat pump, if you are in northern Florida, AND you want to heat year around.
Hi Ed,
My father has a Hawyard Northstar pump (1hp) and is debating on getting a Hawayard superpump 700 vs. Pentair superflow VS 342001. Any thoughts? Thanks!
Hi Johny, the SuperFlo and the Superpump are both very similar, very Super, lol. We currently have the SuperFlo almost $200 cheaper, so that’s the one I’d go with. I also like that the Pentair has the 2″ unions.
Hi Davy,
I have a Hayward Tristar VS 900 Omni pump since November 2018 and had it replaced in early March 2020 under warranty. The replacement has been great until today May 2020, where it sounds & smells as though the motor is gone or about to melt. I am curious if my pump is actually the correct model / size for my specific pool configuration? There is an elevation difference of about 8 to 10 feet and a 50 feet distance between my pool / pump, and the heating / filter system. I believe the Hayward pump is a quality product, however I am sure that this pump will need replacement once again.
HI Peter, sorry about that! Rough start to the season. The elevation, the pump sits 8-10 feet above the pool? That does place a lot of stress on a pump, and can make for ‘fun’ priming issues, but does not normally burn-up a motor. The 50 ft distance is no problem, normal. I would not place blame on the situational – call and speak with a Hayward technical support, their advice will be better than mine, lol. (908) 355-7995, in New Jersey, EST.
Hi Davy,
We inherited a Hayward EcoStar SP3400VSP with our houses pool and it just died after about 6 years of use. I’ve done as much research as I can and wanted your opinion on whether you would go with a Hayward Tristar or changing out to the Pentair 011028 VSP instead, or would you suggest something else entirely.
We have an in ground 15,000 gallon 30’x15′ Rectangle pool with 2″ lines and loved being able to adjust the RPM as much as the EcoStar permitted to dial in the most efficiency. I think we just got lucky with the Drive/Motor to last the 6 years based on all the reviews of them dying early.
Thanks.
HI Brent, because your pool is so small, you could go with one of the medium head pumps, 1.5 HP, like the Pentair SuperFlo VS which is quite a bit cheaper, and has 2″ unions, 3-speeds with override, to dial in speeds from 300-3450 RPM. The Pentair Intelliflo VS pump is much more powerful, 3 HP, for larger pools or large water features, with a total of 8 speeds. IntellifloIntelliflo will also work, but you will never need high speed, and the larger motor will draw more amps, costing more to operate. Intelliflo however, does have a more advanced interface, with diagnostic capabilites that exceed Superflo. To understand the difference in vertical height and distance back to the outlet pipe, look at the pump specs, or the measurement diagrams and compare to the Ecostar. In many cases, no plumbing mods are needed, if the difference is less than one inch, as the pipes can sort of be pushed into place, or the pump can be raised or lowered with an adjustable base.
Hi Davy, I have a relatively small pool (approx 10,000 gal), but it also has an attached spa (approx 900 gal). It has 2″ plumbing goinig into an older Hayward single-speed pump (I believe Tri-star, but it might be Eco-star; the labels have warn off from the sun) with a Hayward C4020 cartridge filter. I’m looking to replace the whole thing with a VS pump and a sand filter. It will be Pentair or Hayward, but not sure which size pump and sand filter. I’ve been looking at the Pentair Triton II sand filter and the Pentair Superflo VS. Is this a good fit for my size of pool?
Hi Chris, I would go with the TR-60 filter, and the SuperFlo VS pump. If you can live without a waste or recirculate setting, consider getting a Slide Valve with the filter, instead of a multiport, to reduce resistance (by a lot), and make the VS pump even more efficient. Slide valves are also simpler and more reliable, as compared to multiport valves.
Hello Davy, I have a tiny pool 3’-5’, 65 linear feet that I’m in the process of completely renovating. Bids are coming back w/two different VS pumps. Jandy 1.85HP or the Intelliflo 3HP 230V. After reading your article it seems that the intelliflo is overkill. Do you have any opinions on the Jandy? Also we are going to heat this pool. Any insight you can provide?
Chloe, a 3-hp pump would be overkill on a pool 3x your size, and is used for pools with large water features, spas and 50,000 gallons or more. Plus, it must have 2″ plumbing, or 2.5″ even better. Of course, with a variable speed pump, you don’t need to run it at full 3-hp power. As an analogy, why put a V-8 engine in your car, if the speed limit is always 35 mph? It’s just gonna get you in trouble! 😉 The smaller 1.85 hp would be more suitable. All the big manufacturers have the large HP vs pumps and also the mid-range. Usually 1.5hp and 3hp, plus or minus. Jandy is a good brand, i would go with that. Hayward also makes some nice ones too. In any case, since you are renovating, be sure to upsize the plumbing to 2″ above-ground, and if you are replacing the filter, consider a large cartridge filter (which has no filter valve), or if you want to stay DE or Sand, use a Slide valve, not a multiport, to reduce resistance, and save more $$$ in energy costs. Use sweep elbows too… not regular hard-turn 90 elbows… these things will dramatically improve your energy savings and pump lifespan, when you reduce system resistance.
I have a 25,600 gal pool. I need to replace my current Hayward Super pump that is a 1.5 HP one speed motor with a 1.47 SF. So overall HP is 2.2. I have solar panels on my roof to heat the pool. I have two skimmers and a drain for suction, 2” plumbing, and a six line return to pop ups in the bottom of the pool. I have had the Hayward TriStar VS950 recommended as the variable speed replacement. Is this the appropriate replacement?
Hi Sarah, the VS950 would work, but it’s a little large at 2.7 THP. You could also use the VS900 Tristar VS pump.
Need to replace my old 1.5hp challenger pump. I have (2) 1.5 suction lines,main drain & 2 skimmers. skimmers probably have a t. (2)1.5 discharge lines, 1 goes to (3) jets, other goes to 360 pool sweep which i control pressure with a jandy valve.Triton 2 TR100 sand filter.Hayward T-15 salt generator. I’m looking for the most efficient pump i can get to run long hours for filtering and generating.Texas summers are hot and humid.As i’m writing this i can see my plumbing is pretty janky, but this pool is very old(built in 1978).We still get alot of use out of it.I’m currently looking at Pentair intelliflo 342001 1.5hp or 028 3hp. Pool is 16’X33′ 4ft shallow/10ft deep rectangle.
Hi Donald, the Pentair Superflo 342001 would be a fine choice, the 011028 Intelliflo would be too big, unless you never ran it at full speed. The Intelliflo is a nice pump, but for the price, I would save the $500+ and go for the Superflo.
I currently have a 20,000-ish pool 3′ to 6′. I have a 2hp single speed pump (century I think) with 2 2″ pipes going into my filter. I need a VS pump b cause I love in California, but I’m not sure if a 1 1/2 hp is enough. I have a spa that has a waterfall and I am assuming this is helping with the circulation of the water. Do you have a couple affordable suggestions? I’ve look at a Hayward and there are rebates available, but, I want to be sure I get the right pump.
Thank you for your help,
Greg
Hi Greg, You can use the Tri-Star VS, or the Pentair SuperFlo VS. Both have 2″ plumbing, well the Tristar has 2″x2.5″ unions, and the SuperFlo has 1.5/2″ unions – so both can fit 2″ pipes. The Tri-Star is a bit more powerful, capable of 20% higher flow rates, but you likely don’t need that – given that your pool size is small, unless your waterfall is very large. TriStar is also priced about 20% more than SuperFlo, so if you want to save $200, go with the SuperFlo. Either will work, although the TriStar may reduce your operation cost slightly more, with a bit more energy savings, due to the larger port sizes and higher flow rates possible. They have a slight difference in height and length measurements for the inlet and outlet ports, about an inch of difference, which means that one or the other may fit your current pump height and length more easily, without re-positioning the pump, or making plumbing modifications. See the pump Specifications diagrams, in the Brochure, to see the dimensions and match against your own pump. Let me know if more questions! Davy
I have a large 20×40 44,000 Gal pool with a 10′ deep well. The plumbing is simple with 2 skimmers, a main and 2 returns. no additional water features. 2″ piping. What do you recommend as the best VS pump coming into 2020? When are new models introduced and are there any new models coming in early 2020? When is the best time to buy are there promos or rebates that happen at various times? Thanks!
Hi Scott, I have not heard of any new models coming out for VS pumps – but every major manuf has their version. The hayward ecostar and pentair intelliflo are top shelf, with more speeds available, higher top end flow, and better programming options. Lower end models, are in the $1000 range, like the Superpump or TriStar. For your size pool, the Tristar VS pump would be my recommendation, for up to 8 speeds and 2″ plumbing and a higher top end than Superflo or SUperpump, but not as much flow as Intelliflo. Ideally, you would turnover the entire pool in 8-hours time, so 44000 gals / 480 minutes = 91 GPM, or up to 100 gpm, but not more. https://www.intheswim.com/p/hayward-tristar-vs-inground-pool-pump
Hi, We have a decent sized pool that is 18,000 gallons. We are currently using the EcoStar SP3400 VSP and it just stopped working after 7 years. Not under warranty anymore. What is the best replacement? Is the new Tristar 1.5 HP powerful enough for our pool? Will the Pentair Intelliflo fit our current plumbing?
Hi Sam, you can use the TriStar – it is a cheaper version of the Ecostar, just has fewer speeds and a few less features, which you may not need. The Intelliflo can also be used, no problem with switching brands!
I have a pool (15×30, 3ft to 6ft) with a spa (has it own booster pump). Currently I have Pentair whisperFlo 1.5HP. Will Pentair SuperFlo 1.5HP be a good replacement? or do i have to use Pentair IntelliFlo 3HP? Thank you.
Hi Bobbei, the Superflo will be fine. In comparing the standard Whisperflo and Superflo, the Whisperflo is a High-Flow pump and the Superflo is a Medium-Flow pump. However, with a pool as small as yours, I’m guessing that your filter is also small to medium in size, which makes me think that a 1.5 Whisperflo was too large to begin with. I believe the SuperFlo VS would be a good choice for a pool (and filter) of your size. Thanks, good question! – Davy
I have a 24k gallon pool and spa 2 inc plumping jandy aqua link controller, current 1.5 hp motor and MPRA6F-148L pump 4008312060065Z . What vs pool pump should I get that will be handled by the jandy.
Hi Edward, I like the hayward TriStar VS pumps. The Tristar will be the closest match to your existing pump dimensions, and will accept 2″ pipe. The Jandy will interface no problem.
Hi Davy, I am planning on upgrading to a VS pump this summer and redoing all my above ground plumbing for more efficient flow (current plumbing is a total mess of fittings and street elbows). 20k gallon pool with a Hayward DE filter & Hayward heat pump, no special water features, and 2” plumbing. Debating between the pentair superflo vs or the hayward maxflo vs, superflo being about $200 cheaper. What do you think?
Hi Jeff, I would go with the Superflo VS – they are similar in features, but I think Pentair has a better track record with VS pumps. If not done already, I would like to recommend replacing the filter multiport valve with a Hayward Slide valve, for less restriction, lower pressure. We also have some nice sweep elbows available.
Hi !!! I have a question about my pools solar panel.
There is a cap with two small 1/4” holes on the end and one holes is dripping water. The cap is at the top and the end of the series of panels on my roof. What is this cap called? Why is it dripping? Why is there two small holes in this end cap? Thank you for your help.
Ed
Hi Ed, that is a ‘drain down cap’, or the purpose is to allow the system to take in air (thru the small holes), and drain down to ground level, when not in use, to prevent freeze damage during winter, or algae growth (inside the panels) during summer. They have a small gasket inside, probably deteriorated. They can be somewhat universal, between manufacturers.