Variable Speed Pool Pumps Compared 2023
Your pool pump is one of the most important components of any swimming pool system. It plays a critical role in circulating water through the pool’s filtration system to keep the water clean and clear. With advancements in technology, variable speed pool pumps have become mandatory in states like California and here in San Diego. These pumps offer numerous advantages over traditional single-speed pumps and can greatly enhance the overall performance and efficiency of your pool system.
Benefits of Variable Speed Pool Pumps
Energy Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of variable speed pool pumps is their energy efficiency. Traditional single-speed pumps operate at full speed, consuming a significant amount of energy, even when running at partial load. Variable speed pumps, on the other hand, can be adjusted to run at a lower speed, and flow rate, reducing energy consumption and operating costs.
Quiet Operation
Another major advantage of variable speed pool pumps is their quiet operation. Single-speed pumps can be quite loud when running at full speed, which can be a nuisance for homeowners and their neighbors. Variable speed pumps, on the other hand, can run at a lower speed, reducing noise levels and ensuring a more peaceful and quiet environment.
Improved Water Filtration
Variable speed pumps can also improve the overall water filtration of your pool. By allowing you to adjust the speed of the pump, you can control the flow rate of water through the filtration system, ensuring optimal performance and water clarity. For commercial pools in San Diego, the County Health Department requires the pool water to be filtered (turned-over) three times a day. For properly size commercial pools that is about six hours for one complete filtration. Commercial pool typically operate for 18 hours to 24 Hours. Your residential pool does not have the same amount of swimmers as a large apartment pool, but still should operate for six hours a day (6 hrs/ day) at a minimum.
Top Variable Speed Pool Pump Brands
Pentair is the premier manufacturer of pool pumps and other pool equipment. Their IntelliFlo VSF variable speed pool pumps are designed to provide the perfect balance of performance and energy savings, allowing you to enjoy crystal-clear pool water while reducing your energy costs by up to 90%.
With its intelligent control panel and quiet operation, the Pentair Intelliflo VAF, variable speed pool pump ensures optimal pool circulation and filtration with minimal noise or maintenance. Pentair’s IntelliFlo VSF pump responds to changing hydro-conditions by adjusting to changes in flow rate to maintain its preprogrammed flow rate running optimally throughout the entire filtration cycle.
The IntelliFlo VSF series also has advanced features such as:
Model SP2603VSP
Rating: 230 volt
Horsepower: 3.0 HP
Max flow rate: 148 GPM
Flow rate at 40 ft head at 3110 RPM: 128 GPM
Making the IntelliFlo VSF series a premium, low-maintenance option that saves you both time and money over the life of the pump. Invest in a Pentair Intelliflo VSF variable speed pool pump and experience a hassle-free pool maintenance routine that saves you money. Signature Pools of San Diego uses the Pentair IntelliFlo Variable Speed Pump VS+ for all our commercial pool customers
Hayward is the competing brand to Pentair in the pool industry. Their variable speed and variable flow pool pumps are among the top-selling products on the market. The Hayward Super Pump VS and the Hayward TriStar VS are both top selling options for pool owners who are looking for energy-efficient and reliable pool pumps.
The Hayward Super Pump VS is a variable speed pool pump that can deliver up to 1.5 horsepower of power while using up to 80% less energy than a traditional single-speed pump. It features a large, easy-to-read display and a user-friendly interface that allows you to easily program and control the pump’s speed and operation.
Model SP2603VSP
Rating: 230 volt
Horsepower: 1.65 HP
Max flow rate: 106 GPM
Flow rate at 30 ft head at 3000 RPM: 60 GPM
The Hayward TriStar VS is a variable flow pool pump that can deliver up to 1.85 horsepower of power while using up to 90% less energy than a traditional single-speed pump. It features a permanent magnet motor that is designed for quiet operation and long-lasting performance. It also has an intuitive interface that allows you to easily program and control the pump’s flow and operation.
Model W3SP3202VSP
Rating: 230 volt
Horsepower: 2.7 HP
Max flow rate: 189 GPM
Flow rate at 30 ft head at 3450 RPM: 167 GPM
Jandy is a premium brand in the pool industry, offering high-end products and innovative technology.
The Jandy VS FloPro Series pump features a variable speed motor that can be adjusted to match the specific needs of your pool, allowing you to customize the pump’s speed and flow to achieve maximum efficiency. It has a built-in controller that provides an easy-to-use interface for programming and adjusting the pump’s settings.
The Jandy VS FloPro Series pump is designed for quiet operation, with a specially designed motor and impeller that help to minimize noise and vibration. It is also durable and corrosion-resistant, with a high-quality construction that is designed to withstand the harsh pool environment.
Model VSFHP##
Rating: 230 volt
Horsepower: 1.65
Max flow rate: 118 GPM
Flow rate at 30 ft head at 3450 RPM: 110 GPM
Sta-Rite is now owned by Pentair. Sta-Rite is an economy solution and is the lower cost, economy brand in the pool industry. For pool owners who want the cost savings of variable speed technology at a more affordable price, the SuperMax VS pump is a wise choice. SuperMax VS pump is engineered for easy installation, simple operation, and trouble-free service. While not as energy efficient (80% efficient) as other more expensive options, it is a entry level solution in the Energy Efficient Pool Pump line up.
When Choosing a Variable Speed Pool Pump
Pool Size
When choosing a variable speed pool pump, it’s important to consider the size of your pool. A larger pool will require a larger pump, while a smaller pool will require a smaller pump. With that being said, a standard size pool can be handled by any of the pumps described here.
Calculate Pool Size in Gallons.
Rectangular Pool
Length x Width x Average Depth x 7.5 = Pool Volume in Gallons
Example:
Length = 30 ft
Width = 15 ft
Depth Avg = 4
30 x 15 x 4 x 7.5 = 13,500 Gallons
Oval Pool
Length x Width x Average Depth x 5.9 = Pool Volume in Gallons
Example:
Length = 30 ft
Width = 15 ft
Depth Avg = 4
30 x 15 x 4 x 5.9 = 10,620 Gallons
Flow Rate
The flow rate of a pool pump is another important factor to consider. This is the rate at which water is pumped through the pool’s filtration system. A higher flow rate will ensure optimal water filtration, but it will also consume more energy. A minimum flow rate is required to achieve a turnover rate of six (6) hours per day. What this means is that all the water in the pool is run through the filter system at least once in six (6) hours.
Turnover Rate
Pools in San Diego are required to have a turnover rate of six (6) hours. Commercial pools in San Diego County are required to have a turnover three (3) times a day. Which means the pump runs for 18 hours a day.
Turnover Rate (hrs) = Pool Volume (gal) ÷ Flow Rate (gal/min) ÷ 60 (min/hr)
Example:
Turnover Rate (6 hrs) = Pool Volume (13,500) ÷ Flow Rate (37.5 gal/min) ÷ 60 (min/hr)
To meet the six (6) hour turnover requirement for a pool size of 13,500 gal. in San Diego, the VS Pool Pump is required to have a minimum Flow Rate of 37.5 Gal/min.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is another important factor to consider when choosing a variable speed pool pump. Make sure to choose a pump that has a high energy efficiency rating, as this will help reduce your energy costs over time.
| Name | Energy Savings | Motor Size (HP) |
| Pentair IntelliFlo VS+SVRS VSP Pump 3HP | 90% | 3.0 HP |
| Jandy VS FloPro Pump | 90% | 1.65 HP |
| Hayward TriStar Variable Speed Pump | 90% | 2.7 HP |
| Sta-Rite Intellipro VSP | 90% | 3.0 HP |
Pool Pump Replacement
A variable speed pool pump is a great investment for any pool owner, and in some states like California they are mandatory when installation a new pump. Variable speed pool pumps are now mandatory and required by California Title 20. The upside for pool owners is that variable speed pumps are the most efficient pool pumps on the market and will result is significant costs saving.
At Signature Pools of San Diego, 100% of our new pool pump installations are variable speed and variable flow pool pumps.
With numerous benefits, including energy efficiency, quiet operation, and improved water filtration, these pumps are a great way to enhance the overall performance and efficiency of your pool system. Make sure to consider the factors outlined in this article when choosing an Energy Efficient, Variable Speed Pool Pump. Choose a brand that has a reputation for Quality, Reliability & Support. Choose Signature Pools of San Diego, your pool service near me, to provide expert equipment installation to get that variable speed pool pump installed, programmed, and operating quietly, and efficiently.
Call Us: (858) 286-8274
Email Us: contact@signaturepoolssandiego.com
