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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Pool Pumps

The heart of your pool system. We compared pumps from single-speed to variable, finding what circulates water efficiently without huge electric bills.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

Hayward

Super Pump VS Variable Speed Pump

4.7 (8,765 reviews)

The pump that pays for itself. Variable speed technology lets you run at low RPM most of the time—using 80% less energy than single-speed pumps. Your power bill drops, your pool stays clean, and it's whisper-quiet.

1.65 THP

Voltage

115/230V

Type

Variable speed

Certification

ENERGY STAR

Pros

✓ Variable speed saves 80% energy
✓ Quieter operation
✓ ENERGY STAR certified

Cons

✗ Higher upfront cost
✗ Complex installation
✗ Requires electrician

$899

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
Super Pump VS Variable Speed Pump Best Hayward	4.7	$899	View
IntelliFlo VSF Variable Speed Pump Pentair	4.8	$1,399	View
MaxFlo VS Variable Speed Pump Value Hayward	4.5	$649	View
Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump Intex	4.3	$269	View
Cyclone Dual Port Variable Speed Pump Blue Torrent	4.4	$549	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

Hayward

Super Pump VS Variable Speed Pump

4.7 (8,765 reviews)

1.65 THP

Voltage

115/230V

Type

Variable speed

Certification

ENERGY STAR

Pros

✓ Variable speed saves 80% energy
✓ Quieter operation
✓ ENERGY STAR certified

Cons

✗ Higher upfront cost
✗ Complex installation
✗ Requires electrician

$899

View on Amazon

Premium Pick

Pentair

IntelliFlo VSF Variable Speed Pump

4.8 (4,567 reviews)

The Cadillac of pool pumps. Pentair's flagship variable-speed pump with flow control technology adapts to your exact pool needs. Diagnostic features alert you to problems before they become expensive. For serious pool owners.

3 THP

Flow Rate

Variable

Speeds

8 programmable

Diagnostics

Built-in

Pros

✓ Industry-leading efficiency
✓ Built-in diagnostics
✓ Flow control technology

Cons

✗ Premium price
✗ Professional installation required
✗ Overkill for small pools

$1,399

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Best Value

Hayward

MaxFlo VS Variable Speed Pump

4.5 (5,678 reviews)

Variable speed benefits without the premium price. This entry-level VS pump still saves dramatically over single-speed, fits in tight spaces, and retrofits easily to existing plumbing. The smart entry point.

1.5 THP

Voltage

115/230V

Type

Variable speed

Size

Compact

Pros

✓ Entry-level variable speed
✓ Significant energy savings
✓ Compact design

Cons

✗ Less powerful than premium
✗ Fewer speed options
✗ Basic programming

$649

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Budget Pick

Intex

Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump

4.3 (12,345 reviews)

Upgrade your above-ground pool from cartridge to sand. Sand filters last years without replacement—just backwash occasionally. The built-in timer means set-it-and-forget-it operation. Real filtration, reasonable price.

Flow Rate

2,100 GPH

Pool Size

Up to 16' diameter

Filter

Sand

Timer

24-hour

Pros

✓ Sand filter included
✓ Easy above-ground setup
✓ No cartridge replacements

Cons

✗ For above-ground only
✗ Not energy efficient
✗ Limited flow rate

$269

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Blue Torrent

Cyclone Dual Port Variable Speed Pump

4.4 (3,456 reviews)

The variable-speed value champion. Blue Torrent delivers VS savings at a price point that makes the math easy. Dual ports fit most existing plumbing. Not fancy, but effective and affordable.

1.5 THP

Voltage

Dual 115/230V

Ports

Dual

Warranty

2 years

Pros

✓ Dual voltage options
✓ Warranty honors easily
✓ Drop-in replacement

Cons

✗ Less brand recognition
✗ Fewer programming features
✗ Basic interface

$549

View on Amazon

Buying Guide: How to Choose Pool Pumps

How to Choose a Pool Pump

Your pool pump is the heart of your filtration system. It runs daily, consumes electricity constantly, and determines whether your pool stays clean or turns green. Choose wisely—this decision affects your wallet for years.

Single Speed vs. Variable Speed

Single Speed
Old technology. Runs at one speed—full blast, all the time. Cheap to buy, expensive to operate. Being phased out by energy regulations in many states.

Variable Speed
Modern technology. Adjusts RPM based on task. Runs low and quiet most of the time, ramps up when needed. Uses 50-80% less energy than single-speed. Higher upfront cost but pays for itself in 1-3 years through energy savings.

The Math: A single-speed pump running 8 hours daily might cost $100/month in electricity. The same filtration with variable speed: $20-30/month. The premium pump pays for itself, then keeps paying.

### Sizing Your Pump

Pool pumps are sized by flow rate (GPH/GPM) and turnover time. Your entire pool volume should circulate through the filter in 8-12 hours. Bigger isn't better—oversized pumps waste energy and can damage filters.

Pool volume calculation: Length × Width × Average Depth × 7.5 = gallons

Flow rate needed: Total gallons ÷ 8 hours ÷ 60 minutes = GPM

### Plumbing Compatibility

Pumps connect via 1.5" or 2" plumbing. Check your existing pipe size. Mismatched connections need adapters or replumbing. Most residential pools use 1.5" pipe; larger pools may have 2".

### Installation Considerations

Single-speed pumps are DIY-friendly for handy homeowners. Variable-speed pumps often require an electrician—they may need 230V wiring and proper bonding. Factor installation cost into your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Pumps

How many hours should a pool pump run daily?

Your entire pool volume should turn over 1-2 times per day. For most pools, this means 8-12 hours of pump runtime. Variable-speed pumps can run longer at lower speeds, which actually filters better and uses less energy than short high-speed runs.

Why is my pool pump so loud?

Common causes: cavitation from air leaks or clogged baskets, worn bearings, loose mounting, or debris in the impeller. Some noise is normal, but grinding, screeching, or sudden increases indicate problems. Variable-speed pumps running at low RPM are dramatically quieter than single-speed.

Can I install a pool pump myself?

Basic single-speed pump replacement is DIY-possible if you're comfortable with plumbing. Turn off power, close valves, swap pumps, done. Variable-speed pumps often need electrical work that requires an electrician. Always check local codes—permits may be required.

Are variable-speed pumps really worth the extra cost?

Yes, for pools that run regularly. Energy savings of $50-80/month are typical. Most VS pumps pay for themselves in 1-3 years, then continue saving money for their 10+ year lifespan. They're also quieter and gentler on pool equipment. The math strongly favors variable speed.

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