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Why Variable Speed Pool Pump

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Benefits Of A Variable Speed Pool Pump

Why Do I Need A Variable Speed Pool Pump?

The deadline is fast approaching! In just a few months, most standard pool pumps will be phased out as obsolete equipment, in favor of a federally mandated energy efficient pool pump. For most pool applications, this will require a variable speed pool pump. The new regulations go into effect on July 19, 2021. But no matter when you decide to upgrade your old pool pump, there are a number of benefits in switching to a variable speed pump.

If you need a new pool filter pump , after this date, you will be required to install a variable speed pump. But thats good news! Variable speed pumps, or VS pumps as some call them, are packed with features and benefits. In fact, the financial savings alone can rapidly pay back your cost to purchase. But the incentives dont stop there. These are the top 5 reasons to invest in a variable speed pool pump.

Hayward Sp2610x15 Super Pump

The Hayward Super Pump is an efficient and technologically advanced pump that provides excellent service and great value for money. Its cost-effective design is perfect for in-ground spas and pools of all sizes and types.

Furthermore, it features an efficient and totally balanced Noryl impeller which uses less horsepower to produce high flow rates. As a result, you can work your pump less thus helping you save on electricity.

This pool pump comes with a super-sized 110 cubic-inch basket that has an extra leaf-holding capacity. With the Hayward Super Pump, you can also extend the time between cleanings. Besides, this pool pump has an exclusive swing-aside hand knob which makes the removal of strainer cover simple and easy.

Moreover, rigid construction combined with load extender ribbing ensures free flowing operation of extra heavy debris loads.

The Hayward Super Pump has a see-through strainer cover that allows you to see if the basket needs cleaning. This high-quality pool pump is constructed with corrosion-proof components that ensure extra durability and long life.

This amazing large capacity pool pump combines state-of-the-art performance with durable corrosion-proof construction. As a result, you can enjoy many years of trouble-free service. Furthermore, installation on any existing in-ground pool system is easy because of its unique and stable mounting base.

Our rating:

  • In some cases, the pump started overheating and leaking within a few months

Reason #: You Dont Need To Replace The Entire Pump

Variable speed pump replacement motors can be installed on existing single-speed pumps. Upgrading to a variable speed motor is all that is necessary to convert pools into high-efficiency systems. Service technicians should select the variable speed motor that is appropriate for the size of pool, plumbing and pump. Installation is simple without the need for additional plumbing or wiring.

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Variable Speed Pool Pumps: How Do They Work And What Are The Benefits

Variable speed pumps are becoming increasingly popular in the pool industry due to their energy efficiency and potential to significantly reduce electricity bills.

So how do variable speed pool pumps save energy?

Variable speed pumps operate at a lower speed most of the time, which uses less energy. They can ramp up to a higher speed when necessary, such as when you need to backwash your filter or run your pool cleaner. But variable speed pumps work by only using a smaller amount of energy to maintain the desired flow rate. This means that variable speed pumps are much more efficient than traditional pumps, which often use more energy than necessary.

Modern variable speed pumps usually have multiple programmable speeds and a built in timer. This lets you customize your pool pumps run time, speed of circulation and the time of day when you run it. This is especially important if you have a free nights electricity plan. You can focus your cleaning time when electricity is free.

The benefits of variable speed pool pumps include increased energy efficiency, lower electricity bills, and quieter operation. They also tend to last longer than standard pumps, around 12-15 years according to one , so youll save money in the long run as well.

Programming Options For Variable Speed Pool Pumps

Why " Oversize"  A Variable Speed Pool Pump

Some variable-speed pumps have built-in programming features that make them super energy efficient. These pumps allow you to program them so they use just enough power to perform a particular task, such as operating a waterfall.

With these automation options, you dont have to remember to switch speeds yourself. The pump does it for you automatically. Its pretty simple to program, too. If you can set your pool timer, you can automate your pool pump.

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Best Setup For Variable Speed Pool Pumps

For the most part, pool owners understand the concept of variable speed pumps. However, when it comes to the best setup for variable speed pool pumps, pool owners are somewhat in the dark. We want to change that.

In this blog article, we provide tips on how to set up your variable speed pool pump to achieve the greatest performance and energy savings. Overall, we want pool owners to feel comfortable purchasing a new pump knowing they are capitalizing on the most savings.

But Big News: New Federal Law Requires Variable

So there are three types of pool pumps on the market, but thats about to changeat least in the United States. New federal pump laws via the Department of Energy Regulation is due to roll out in 2021, and theyre coming for single-speed pumps.

The new regulation requires that self-priming pumps past a certain horsepower meet an established performance standard. Even dual pumps with horsepower between .7 and 2.5 are excluded. Right now, that standard is only satisfied by variable-speed pumps.

Wondering if your pump is self-priming? Chances are it ismost pumps on the market are .

So not only have variable-speed pumps always been my first recommendation, but theyll also soon be required by law. You bet Im feeling pretty validated right about now.

Since variable-speed pumps only save more with time, the sooner the better. Get the 1.5 HP Variable Speed Blue Torrent Thunder In-Ground Swimming Pool Pumpit has major versatility from slow to high-powered, and also comes with an industry leading warranty.

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Variable Speed Vs Single

Pool pumps are available in two types: single-speed and variable speed. As the names suggest, a single-speed pump features only one speed, whereas a variable speed pump lets you adjust the speed. Single-speed pumps typically operate at a speed equal to the maximum speed of a typical variable speed pump.

Consequently, a variable speed pump lets you circulate your pool water at a low flow rate for longer durations than you would on a single-speed pump without increasing energy consumption. So, variable speed pumps are more energy-efficient than single-speed pumps. A study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory supports this conclusion.

Why You Need A Variable Speed Pool Pump

Why Are Variable Speed Pumps Better?

More Efficient Motor

Variable speed pool pumps are essential to operating a healthy pool for a variety of reasons. They are powered by a different motor than single and dual speed pumps, known as a permanent magnetic motor. The same type of motor used in electric cars, it is much more efficient than the induction motors used in traditional single and dual speed pool pumps.

These motors use permanent magnets to create a magnetic field between the rotor and the windings. The improved efficiency is due to the magnets working to spin the rotor, as opposed to standard induction motors that require additional electricity to induce the magnetic field into the rotor.

Permanent magnetic motors have efficiency ratings of 90 percent while the average single speed pool pump will only achieve efficiency ratings between 30 percent and 70 percent. This means that running a variable speed pool pump will consume a significantly less amount of energy with the same flow rate as a single speed pump.

Less Power Consumption

Although variable speed pool pumps have a higher upfront cost, they will end up recovering all of that cost and saving you even more money over time. This is because variable speed pool pumps allow you to run your pool at a lower speed for a longer period of time, as opposed to single speed pumps that run at higher speeds for a shorter period of time.

Better Pool Circulation

Less Pool Pump Noise

Better Pool Filtration

Rebates

Avoid Fines

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Variable Speed Motor Vs Single

Good circulation is important if you want to properly maintain your pool, and circulation directly ties to the pump operation. The more times you are able to turn over the water in your pool each day, and how many times the full pool volume passes through the circulation system will determine overall flow rate. There are three main types of pool pumps you will find on the market: Single-Speed, 2 speed Pumps and Variable Speed Pumps. The differences between single speed and 2 speed are obvious and simple. The difference in a variable speed pump is that it will allow you to adjust the flow rate of water through the system at a speed of your choosing. Usually, a single-speed pump and the High speed of a 2 speed pump correlates to the max operating speed of a variable speed pump. With a variable speed pump, you are able to circulate the water at a lower flow rate over a longer period of the day and still reduce your energy bill.

You Can Monitor Your Pool Remotely

Most everything can be run via an app on your smart phone these days, so why not your pool? Many variable pump motors can be controlled through an app, which allows pool owners to monitor and adjust setting at any time, from anywhere. Plus, many apps will give you up-to-date running costs so you know exactly what to expect on your next energy bill.

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They Last A Long Time

Variable speed motors are enclosed and fan cooled. The enclosure protects the internal components of the motor from environmental factors, like snow and debris. The fact that they also run at lower speeds and are fan cooled means they also stay much cooler, which means replacing certain parts less often.

Single speed motors, on the other hand, are standard induction motors. They have vents, which can allow in water, debris and sometimes animals to cause damage.

Pentair Superflo Variable Speed Pool Pump

Learn About Variable Speed Pool Pumps

Another entry on the list of our favorite variable speed pool pumps comes from Pentair, with the SuperFlo model. This bad boy is not only quiet and energy-efficient, when installed it will adapt to 115V or 230V power on its own. The SuperFlo moves water more efficiently at lower speeds compared to traditional pool pumps, making it an excellent choice for pools that require a pump that works up to 1.5HP.

A digital display makes programming, monitoring and operation of the pump simple. You can choose from three-speed settings or use the override setting to match the pump up to the specific requirements of your pool.

Customizable, quiet, easy to install, and hilariously efficient, the Pentair SuperFlo is a total beast.

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Low Pool Pump Speeds Mean Low Noise

Think of the sound your single-speed pump makes when it kicks on. Has it ever woken you up at night? Well, when you switch to a variable-speed pump, youll never again bolt awake in bed wondering if a helicopter just landed in your yard.

Single-speed pumps run at 3,450 revolutions per minute . Variable-speed pumps can run as low as 600 RPM. The lower RPMs significantly reduce motor noise, making the variable-speed pump a far quieter option than that old single-speed.

Set your timer to turn the variable-speed pump on at a low setting overnight to turn over your pool water during non-peak power hours. Youll save money, clean your pool, and avoid a confrontation with grumpy, sleep-deprived neighbors.

Variable Speed Pool Pump Faqs

What Are the Various Types of Pool Pumps?

There are three different types of pool pumps namely single-speed, dual-speed, and variable-speed. The single-speed pump is an entry-level pump which is very cost-effective. It operates at just one speed without any variations.

A dual-speed pump provides better energy efficiency than single-speed pumps. However, they are slightly more expensive. This pump allows you to choose different settings for different tasks. For instance, you can set a low speed for water filtration whereas you will require high speed to vacuum the swimming pool.

The variable speed pump is ultra-efficient as it offers multiple operating speeds. As a result, you can run it at different speeds for clearing algae or for overnight filtration. These pumps use permanent magnet motor that further increases their energy efficiency.

How Do Pool Pumps Work?

The skimmer helps to keep the pump from dry running. The drive shaft is powered by the pool pumps motor thus spinning the pumps impeller. As a result, a vacuum builds up which takes the water from the skimmer and pours it through the built-in strainer in the pump. This helps to remove the debris, twigs, and leaves.

After cleaning the water from substances, the pump sends the water to the pumps filter by using its impeller. Then the water is passed through the water heater before it is chlorinated. Finally, the water is released back into the pool.

Can a Pump Clean the Bottom and Walls of My Pool?

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The Low And Slow Route With A Variable Speed Pump

Now, lets imagine that you installed a 1.5 horsepower variable speed pump in the same swimming pool. With a variable speed pump, you select the times and speeds to keep the water flowing in your pool 24 hours a day, but at different speeds. This will not only conserve energy but also lower your costs.

What? Running a variable speed pump 24 hours a day will cost less than running a single speed pump for only five hours a day? Amazingly, its true.

Using the same kWh cost and running the pump 24 hours a day for six months out of the year, you could set up the daily running times like this:

Heres the amount of kW you would use:

All of these calculations equal incredible cost savings:

3.5 kW x 0.13.31 cents = 0.47 per day0.47 per day x 30 days = $13.98 a month$14.37 per month x 6 months = $83.85 a year

And if you are running your pool year around, that means you will save roughly $192 a year over a single speed pool pump, not to mention they are much quieter and way better for the environment!

How To Find The Best Variable Speed Pool Pump Installer Near You

Circupool Smartflo Variable Speed Pool Pump Installation And Why?

With a variable speed pool pump, you can reduce your home’s carbon footprint while saving money at the same time. But it’s important to find the right local contractor to help you switch.

The Clean Energy Connection makes it easy to narrow the list of local companies that fit the bill. It’s a free online directory of California contractors specializing in clean energy and energy efficiency services, from solar installation to insulation upgrades and even variable speed pool pumps!

You can quickly filter directory listings by location, services offered, available rebates, and more, and there’s no hidden catch or payola scheme at play. We don’t charge contractors to be included in the directory , and we have no financial stake in who you choose.

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Calculating Savings With A Variable Speed Pool Pump

One of the biggest false arguments against variable speed pumps versus single speed pumps is that you can just use a single speed pump and turn it off part of the day. This is how people used to save money with their pool pumps and the argument exists today that this is a viable option. In my expert opinion this is a fallacy and one that is argued mostly by people who do not understand the math behind exactly how energy you save by using a variable speed pump. Lets look at this equation of a variable speed pump versus a single speed pump that only runs part of the day.

First, a single speed pump of even moderate size will usually have the ability to meet the turnover rate for filtration of the average pool many times over per day. This part of the logic is sound. Single speed pumps move a lot of water and most pools can easily turn off the pump for part of the day and still meet one, two or three turnovers of the pool water per day. For the purposes of illustration we can use the calculated flow rates for a generic 1.5 horsepower pump.

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Things To Know Before You Buy A Variable

While theres a lot to love about variable-speed pumps, there are a few things you should know before taking the plunge. Initially, youll pay more to purchase a variable-speed pump, compared to dual- and single-speed options. If youre on a strict budget, you might want to consider lower-priced alternatives. One thing to keep in mind, though: With a variable-speed pump, youll save more money long-term thanks to a longer lifespan and lower energy consumption.

Another consideration? If youre replacing the pump on an older swimming pool, youll need to make sure that your variable speed pump isnt too powerful for your existing filter or your plumbing lines . Your swimming pool professional can help you choose a pump thats right for you and your pool.

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Better Filtration Equals Cleaner Water And Longer Equipment Life

Contrary to popular belief, bigger pool pumps are not generally better. My fellow Texans might get upset with me for that statement. I am by no means a hydraulics expert, but understanding one basic principle helps – only so much water can efficiently flow through a 2 pipe.

EXAMPLE: 2 Inch PVC is going to allow about 60 – 80 GPM to flow through that pipe. An Intelliflo VSF Pump is rated as a 3hp pool pump. If you run this pump at full speed, it will be trying to move well over 80 GPMs, therefore resulting in overworking the pump and causing it to fail prematurely.

This is why pool pumps seem to be made with less quality these days, when in reality they are most likely made with better quality. Lack of knowledge from pool professionals and incentives from builders – We will throw in a bigger pump if you choose us.. – are some of the reasons this issue continues.

Something easily overlooked but is in fact very important is how pump sizing and waterflow affects the rest of your pool equipment, mainly talking about your gas heater and pool filter. Having too large of a pump can cause erosion of the copper heat exchanger in the heater. It may take a while, but why not get more life out of your pool heater?

Additionally, slower water flow gets filtered better.

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