To help you find the best we have listed out the 10 best variable speed pool pumps from leading brands to be found in the market. Perusing through this variable speed pool pump review would give you an idea as to which of them would match and marry perfectly with the size and type of the pool.

We eagerly look forward to the impending season when we could have some fun and frolic with family and friends in the pool in our backyard. Unknown to us operating a faulty variable pool pump could be draining valuable energy away. As a result of this our energy bills would rise which we would have to dole out, whether we would be unhappy with it or not. We could avoid such as calamity if we have an efficient variable speed water pump.

You would be saving more than US $ 150/- per month during the season when your swimming pool is being used by you and your family every day. To enjoy such a large saving it would be imperative that you replace your existing faulty pool pump with the best variable speed pool pump. If the existing pool pump has been faulty during the last season, it would be time to say “good riddance” and replace it with the best variable speed pool pump.

Here are the Best Variable Speed Pool Pumps

Review Summary Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo Variable Speed High Performance Pool Pump

Pentair is a name that is synonymous in innovating quality pool equipment for many decades. It was Research and Development (R&D) initiated by them which gave birth to variable speed pumps. The result of the head start that they gained in innovating and introducing the first variable speed water pump is the state of the art Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo Variable Speed High Performance Pool Pump. The digital settings with 8 programmable speeds and timer enables this variable speed water pump to ensure your pool is always clean, clear and healthy for your loved ones. The digital panel displays actual operational speed and consumption wattage. Programming the operational requirements is very convenient and easy.

Packed with an incredible 3 HP, in single phase operation this superlative variable pool pump delivers what it promises by reducing energy bills by 90% compared to other conventional pumps. This is calculated against a single speed pump operating 12 hours per day for a 20,000 gallons pool consuming US $ 0.16per kWh. This comparison could marginally vary when many other salient factors are taken into the relevant calculation. But overall this is the best variable speed pool pump for any size, shape or type of swimming pool that you would contemplate of using it. Adjusting the water flow rates in this variable speed water pump would enable 24 hour water circulation in the pool at low noise, high efficiency and affordable cost.

Though the powerful motor delivers such an immense power this variable speed pool pump is very quiet in operation emanating just 45 decibels at 3.28 feet. This is four times quieter than other traditional pumps. According to research initiated by the American Speech Language Hearing Association testing it is much quieter than a lawnmower, dishwasher, vacuum cleaner or even moderate rainfall on an open umbrella. The design engineering of this variable speed pumping efficient contraption is Total Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC), protecting it from the vagaries of Nature.

Pros and Cons Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo Variable Speed High Performance Pool Pump

Pros

• Pioneers in variable speed pumps
• 3 HP motor
• Heavy but with no visible vibrations
• Low noise of 45 decibels at 3.28 feet
• Design engineered strong and sturdy body
• Digital 8 setting programmable panel controls
• Timer settings

Cons

• Price is a cut above the rest
• Few customer complaints

Review Summary Pentair 342001 SuperFlo VS Variable Speed Pool Pump

The Pentair 342001 SuperFlo VS Variable Speed Pool Pump reads the power supply whilst automatically adjusting itself to anything between 115~230 Volts, ensuring safety and eliminating the need for any additional or special wiring. This is a first of its kind from the pioneers of the variable speed water pump which has become a universally acceptable product with many additional benefits compared to traditional pumps. Three programmable speed settings which would give you complete control as to how you would like to have the pool pump work for your convenience. This is facilitated by the real time 24 hour digital display which also has an override setting to be set precisely as per your personal and specific desire.

Monitoring and operating this variable speed pool pump is easy and convenient with installation too being a simple DIY task to get it quickly operational. Moving water very efficiently at lower speeds whilst cutting down on the usage of energy, this variable pool pump delivers on its promises as being easy to operate whilst also making huge savings on your purse. Energy costs are tested to reduce by at least 80% compared to other conventional single speed pool pumps that are available in the market.

This is calculated by operating one of these variable speed pumps on a 12 hour cycle per day in a 20,000 gallons pool at an average cost of US $ 0.16 per kWh, alongside a single speed pool pump in the same environmental and other salient conditions. The powerful 1½ HP motor and other diagnostic parts are encompassed in its ultra-quiet Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) exterior body. The body of this variable speed pool pump is strong, sturdy and corrosion free to withstand the vagaries of Nature, weighing a solid 52 pounds which drastically reduces or eliminates any possible vibrations.             

Pros

• Powerful 1½ HP motor
• Digital control display
• 24 hour real time settings
• Additional override setting
• Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) design engineered
• Energy saver
• DIY installation

Cons

• Warranty ceases when you DIY
• Some customer issues mainly administrative

Review Summary Hayward SP2302VSP Max-Flo VS Variable Speed Pool Pump

Supported and backed by the enviable 80 year Hayward pedigree matched by none other variable pool pump manufacturer. The Hayward SP2302VSP Max-Flo VS Variable Speed Pool Pump is quality stamped by the Energy Star certification which backs Hayward’s promise that operating this variable pool pump saves money compared to any other conventional pool pump. This Hayward is compliant with many industry standards and regulations standing tall like a colossal among the rest in its category. It is Title 20 and APSP 15 compatible which makes it eligible for rebates in local utilities in some selected jurisdictions.

Equipped with an incredibly powerful Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) motor, this variable speed pool pump is highly efficient and reliable in operation. The 1½ HP motor is design engineered with a permanent magnet increasing operational efficiency to the highest possible levels. In the pool pump industry this is considered as one of the best variable speed pool pump you could hook onto your pool whatever size, shape or type it would be. The extra-large no rib debris basket could hold a higher quantity of dust, debris and dirt ensuring longer intervals between cleaning cycles.

The Hayward Max-Flo VS technology enables this versatile variable speed water pump to select and customize water flow speeds, the required durations and also adjust the priming times. This provides it with the right impetus to deliver on its promises whether it is a replacement or new installation onto a pool. These adjustments and settings which are easily facilitated by the easy to command and control digital panel enable envisaged power savings. This variable speed pool pump operates on 230 Volts, single phase electricity to dish out power ultra-quietly.

Pros

• Hayward Max-Flo technology
• Digital control panel
• Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled motor technology
• Select customized water flow rates
• Compatible with local US and some international regulations
• Extra-large debris basket

Cons

• A few customer concerns

Review Summary Hayward SP3400VSP Ecostar Variable-Speed Pool Pump

Design engineered to operate at optimum efficiency with the capability to suck water 10 feet up from the surface of the pool which comes handy when you have solar pool water heaters at a higher level. This variable pool pump carries with it most of the required statutory and mandatory certifications which makes it eligible for local utility rebates. These and the other credentials that the Hayward SP3400VSP Ecostar Variable-Speed Pool Pump is bestowed with assure it would deliver on all its promises. The Eco Star certification is just one of them which stand out conspicuously among most of the other credentials that have come its way in the long and indelible history that Hayward boasts.

Running at any speeds this variable speed water pump is cost effective in operation compared to any of the other variable speed pool pumps available in the market. It is also ultra-quiet with the permanent magnet driven high powered motor encompassed in the Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) design engineered outer casing. All external and internal diagnostics are manufactured from the highest grade of materials and are all corrosion resistant.

Pros

• Eco Star certification
• Ultra-quiet
• Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) design engineered motor
• Corrosion resistant
• Water suction 10 feet high
• Bestowed with regulatory credentials

Cons

• Customer complaints on defects
• Warranty issues persistent with various customers

Review Summary-Hayward SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump

The House of Hayward developed superlative Max-Flo technology ensures you enjoy the best water flow rates to ensure you pool is efficiently cleaned whilst enjoying a conspicuous reduction in energy consumption. Operational capability on either 110~120 or 220~240 voltages gives the Hayward SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump a universal flavor. Reliability, efficiency and long term service is what you could expect when you invest in this variable speed pool pump which is supported with a limited Hayward’s warranty. This variable speed pumping motor packs an incredible 1.65 HP, providing the perfect impetus to give your pool a thorough clean up.

Design engineered with the highly efficient Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) motor technology this variable speed water pump would effectively deliver on its promises. This technology is incorporated into the permanent magnet motor to ensure highly efficient operation is maintained under any adverse ambient conditions. Among all other variable speed pumps this Hayward stands tall and handsome with its ability to operate in any type of weather.

Pros

• Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) motor technology
• 110~120 and 220~240 selected voltages
• Permanent magnet motor technology
• All weather operational
• Power packed 1.65 HP

Cons

• Various customer complaints
• Some manufacturing and administrative issues

Review Summary Hayward SP2300VSP Max-Flo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump

Compact designed engineered, packing enormous power with a 1½ HP Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) motor, to ensure efficient circulation of the water in your pool is maintained whilst assisting to keep it clean, clear and healthy. This variable speed pool pump saves on energy costs by at least 80% compared to single speed pool pumps from any manufacturer. This maintains a healthy water flow rate with suction power enabled up to 8 feet above water which would be helpful if your pool is using a solar power heating system which would be placed at a higher level. The large strainer could hold a higher quantity of debris enabling longer cleaning cycles to maintain optimum operation times.

The Hayward SP2300VSP Max-Flo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump delivers on its promises and with the backing of the Hayward warranty it would give your pool an efficient water circulation with variably controlled flow rates.  This is made possible with the superlative integrated programmable interface technology incorporated into this variable pool pump. Service and maintenance is hassle free with all internal components easily accessible for cleaning and if required replacements. The digital control panel would display power consumption during operation to enabling the necessary adjustments if required to maintain optimum efficiency.

Pros

• Digital control panel
• Easily accessible internal components
• Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) motor technology
• Large strainer for longer cleaning cycles
• Controllable flow rates
• 80% energy savings
• 8 feet lift from surface of water

Cons

• Few customer complaints
• Service and warranty issues

Review Summary- Hayward SP3202VSP 1.85 HP Variable-Speed Pool Pump

The Hayward SP3202VSP 1.85 HP Variable-Speed Pool Pump is power at your fingertips with a Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) precision 1.85 HP motor with permanent magnet technology to deliver optimum results. This variable speed pool pump could hold its own with single speed pumps with capacities of 2.0 HP in efficiency and cost savings. Tested results have shown that this variable speed water pump with its digitally controlled water flow rates saves up to 90% on energy thus bring in a substantial cost reduction over a period of time. Any initial cost paid to install this variable speed pumping motor would be compensated on the long term with its operational costs being much lower than the others.

The digitally controlled speed range could be set between 600 and 3,400 Revolutions per Minute (RPM) enabling this variable speed pool pump to deliver optimum results. This variable pool pump is versatile in operation with the ability to work within the Hayward Automation system, including its Omni Logic with the digital controls easy to set. Design engineered to support medium and large pools these variable speed pool pumps are facilitated with 2” and 2½” union connections to ensure installation and servicing is hassle free and convenient. The digitally controlled interface is fully programmable with the ability to rotate to four positions for convenient accessibility.

Pros

• Digitally controlled programmable interface
• Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) motor technology
• 600 to 3,400 RPM
• 90% energy savings
• Hayward Automation system
• Long term cost savings
• For medium and large pools

Cons

• Some adverse administrative issues
• Warranty complaints

Review Summary-Hayward SP2602VSP Super Pump VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump

This variable speed pool pump comes from the House of Hayward, with an eight decade indelible history behind it. The Hayward SP2602VSP Super Pump VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump is design engineered to meet industry standards and comply with other statutory and legislative regulations. This variable speed pool pump meets Title 20 and APSP 15 which makes it eligible to enjoy local utility rebates in many jurisdictions. Supported by a name to reckon with in the pool equipment industry this variable speed water pump delivers excellent results at optimum efficiency. This variable pool pump is an outstanding energy saver bringing cost reductions to a high with an Energy Star certification. The rotatable four point digital control interface facilitates easy access and convenient settings. The digital controls could be detached and wall mounted for easy and convenient settings in this versatile variable speed pumping motor.

The Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) motor technology assisted by the incorporated permanent magnet system provides these variable speed pumps the ability to deliver exemplary, excellent and optimum results when operating at set speeds. The extra-large strainer is easily accessible with the two swing away knobs which would also provide longer cleaning cycles, which is further facilitated with the transparent cover to observe the quantity of collected debris. The power consumption when this variable pool pump is operational could be monitored and adjusted to ensure maximum savings by setting the required water flow rates.

Pros

• Totally Enclosed fan Cooled (TEFC) motor technology
• Extra-Large strainer accessible with two swing away knobs
• Energy Star certification
• Permanent magnet system motor technology
• Four point digital control panel
• Enjoy utility rebates in most jurisdictions within the USA

Cons

• Supervised installation required to enjoy warranty

Review Summary- Hayward SP2603VSP Super Pump Variable-Speed Pool Pump

The Hayward SP2603VSP Super Pump Variable-Speed Pool Pump is packed with a powerful 1.65 HP Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) permanent magnet motor. Compared to any other single speed pool pump this variable speed pool pump is bestowed with the superlative Energy Star certification reducing energy costs by an incredible 90%. The digital control panel which could be rotated to four different positions for convenient accessibility could also be wall mounted. This variable speed water pump is compatible to operate on 220~240 volts and delivers exemplary results when operating at optimum efficiency. It is also available for operation in 110~120 volts for specific jurisdictions.

To ensure this variable pool pump delivers as promised, the water flow could be monitored with the energy consumption and if needed adjustments could be initiated to ensure the envisaged results are forthcoming. The extra-large strainer is conveniently accessed with a couple of quick turns of the two swing away knobs with the  cleaning cycles further apart as a larger quantity of debris would be collected and hold in-between the cycles. Installation in any application is facilitated by the Hayward Automation system with Omni Logic and competitive control systems. This variable speed pool pump is ultra-quiet in operation and emits very low decibels ensuring long term service with less wear and tear. It is also backed by the limited warranty offered by the House of Hayward.        

Pros

• 90% energy savings
• Four point rotatable digital control panel
• Control panel wall mountable
• Ultra-quiet operation
• Limited Hayward warranty
• Two easy swing away knobs to access strainer
• Extra-large strainer
• Longer cleaning cycles
• Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) motor technology

Cons

• Few customer complaints which are mainly administrative

Review Summary- Pentair Sta-Rite 343001 SuperMax VS Variable Speed Pool Pump

Pentair has been in the forefront with great innovations in the pool equipment industry. They are the pioneers of the variable speed water pump and that edge propelled them into the limelight. They have held center stage since then and innovated some of the industry’s best variable speed pool pumps. The Pentair Sta-Rite 343001 SuperMax VS Variable Speed Pool Pump has three separate speeds settings on which it would discharge at optimum efficiencies. It is also bestowed with an override to set any water flow that you would need. This variable speed pumping water pump ensures it operates at maximum efficiency to bring forth optimum results. The timer could be set with its digitally controlled 24 hour memory cycles enabling operation to start and end as and when you would require it to do so.

This variable speed pool pump packs ample power with a 1½ HP ultra-quiet motor which operates on either 110~120 or 220~240 voltages at 50/60 Hz single phase, making it a truly universal product. The installation endeavor is simple DIY but careful following of the instruction manual would be needed. Service and maintenance is also conveniently facilitated by its easy to access internal and external serviceable parts. This variable pool pump is Energy Star certified to offer optimum results in any weather conditions as it has a strong and sturdy casing which is corrosion resistant. This variable speed pool pump does what any single speed pool pump cannot do and that is to bring back savings into your purse up to 80% and is a versatile Pentair Super Max VS pump.

Pros

• Energy Star savings up to 80%
• 24 hour memory cycles
• Timer
• 1½ HP Super Max VS pump
• Super Max VS pump
• 110~120 or 220~240 volts with 50/60 Hz
• Corrosion resistant casing and internal diagnostics

Cons

• Check out warranty conditions

How to Choose the Right Variable Speed Pool Pump for Your Pool

To help you in the endeavor of choosing the right variable speed pool pump we have listed out nine (09) salient points for your perusal in these variable speed pool pump reviews and hope it would help you to fulfill the task successfully.

    1. Performance

Real operational performance would be what you should look for but this could be an issue if you are still in the stage of contemplating on which brand and model you would like to decide. Hence in the context it would be prudent to study optimum available information and read through variable speed pool pump reviews to base your final decision.

    2. Intake/Output Diameter

The intake and output diameter would be what would decide as to how much water would be drawn in by the variable speed pool pump and what would be discharged. To avoid air to be drawn it is advisable to heed manufacturer’s instructions.

     3. Head/Resistance Rating

These are important factors hence checking them out with a professional would be the most prudent way to go. It has a technical aspect attached hence apprising yourself would be prudent.

     4. Energy Efficiency

The energy efficiency would apprise you as to how much energy would be required to run the variable speed pumps and how much you could save on the medium and long term. Energy savings is a major issue in most jurisdictions hence being sure of what you buy would be the first prudent thought that should cross your mind.

    5. Horsepower and Voltage Draw Requirements

It is in your best interests to ensure that the horsepower and voltage in the variable speed pool pump that you would finally decide on matches and marries with your pool and power supply. The quantum of water in the pool should be the basis for that along with the voltage supplied to your premises.

    6. Material Used

Materials used in the construction of the variable speed water pump should be able to withstand the vagaries of Nature. Importantly it should be corrosion free.

     7. Safety Functions

These variable speed pool pumps could be dangerous as they use electricity hence check out their inherent safety features.

     8. Installation

Installation of the variable speed pool pump has to be precise as the performance would depend on it. Manufacturers provide advice but would also sometimes insist it to be done by professionals if not warranty covers become invalid.

     9. Warranty

Check out the warranty clauses well before you decide because there are many which you would need to be up dated about if you are not to be carrying the baby and the bath tub at the end of the day.

What are the advantages of a variable speed pool pump?

• Efficiency:

Efficiency in a variable speed pool pump far exceeds that of a conventional single speed pump. They are both incomparable with the former miles ahead.

• Noise Level (PMM Motor):

Noise levels in variable speed pool pumps are four times lower than in conventional single speed pumps.

• Element Resistance:

A technical issue which would need to be checked out by a professional for advice as this would determine the operation of the variable speed pumping at its optimum.

• Versatility:

Like any mechanical contraption the variable speed pool pump too should be versatile in operation. It is only then that it could produce efficient results.

• Compatibility with Constant-Flow Software:

There are variable speed pool pumps which are compatible to marry with sophisticated constant flow software which is technology at its best. If you are technology savvy it would be prudent to get one for you too.

• Safety Vacuum Release Systems (SVRS):

It is advisable to install a SVRS to ensure any body or object trapped in the suction side is released without any harm or damage being caused.

• Flow Rate

The flow rate when controlled could increase or decrease efficiency and energy consumption. Maintaining the appropriate flow rate would determine the circulation of water.

 What is the most energy efficient pool pump?

The most energy efficient pool pump would be a variable speed pool pump which would use less energy to do the same chore that any other pool pump would accomplish. The best variable pool pump would have all the right credentials to ensure it does the job well and also bring home some savings in operations.

The variable speed pool pump will have different water flow speed settings whilst the conventional single speed would not have that advantage. It is this that makes a very big difference between the two in the consumption of energy.

CONCLUSION

A variable speed water pump is the ultimate in the industry. For use in swimming pools there is nothing that could beat the best variable speed pool pump which is extremely efficient in operation and also a huge cost saver. The ones with the timers could be programmed to operate at specific times taking advantage of low peak hours in electricity consumption.

FAQ

     Who makes the best variable speed pool pump?

Pentair are the pioneers in the industry and they are still holding the fort and are far ahead of the others.

     How to best use a variable speed pool pump?

Peruse the instructions manual and ensure you stick to every word professed by the manufacturer.

     What is the best variable speed pool pump on the market?

The Pentair Sta-Rite 343001 SuperMax VS Variable Speed Pool Pump from the pioneers has been well accepted by all those who are using this.

     How do I know what variable speed pump is best for my pool?

Check out the quantum of water in your pool and then match and marry the best variable speed pool pump to it.

     Which automatic pool cleaner work best with variable speed pump?

If you are buying a Pentair variable speed pool pump then it would be prudent to match one from the same brand, as it would be less hassle and easily compatible too.

     Variable speed pool pump which is best for me?

A Pentair, who are the pioneers in the variable speed pool pump industry.

     Do variable speed pool pumps really save money?

Yes! They do and that too, up to about 90% savings in energy and reciprocated by operating costs compared to single speed pool pumps.

     How much does a variable speed pool pump cost?

Depending on many salient and inherent properties it could be around US $ 1,000/- or thereabout.

     Do I need a variable speed pool pump?

You do! It is because it would save you quite a tidy sum of money when you come to the end of the year.

     Variable Speed Pool Pumps vs One and Two Speed, Which is Best?

The variable speed pool pump would always take center stage above the one or two speed pool pump because of energy savings and cost considerations.