Choosing an Energy-Efficient Pool Pump

We explain why energy-efficient pool pumps are growing in popularity and how to choose the right one for your pool.

As electricity costs skyrocket, reducing your energy consumption is more important than ever. But when you’ve got a pool, and you’re running equipment for up to 8 hours a day, it can feel like an impossible task. 

Luckily, you can keep energy costs down – and we mean way down – by switching to a variable-speed pool pump. When you combine this with other energy-saving tips, like a pool cover and solar heating, you could be saving hundreds in pool running costs each year. 

But why are variable-speed pool pumps better than single- or dual-speed pumps? Do they live up to the hype? In this article, we explain what variable-speed pool pumps do, why they benefit the environment (and your back pocket!) and how to choose the right one for your pool. 

What is an energy-efficient pool pump?

Before energy-efficient pool pumps came along, almost all pumps used in backyard pools were single or dual-speed. That’s because they were affordable, simple to use and effective. However, we now know that these pumps can be responsible for 20–30 per cent of your energy bill. This is because they run at the same speed all day and consume a lot of energy. When you consider the effects of climate change and recent increases in energy costs, these pumps are no longer environmentally friendly – and they can make your bills astronomical. 

On the other hand, energy-efficient pool pumps – or variable-speed pool pumps – use less energy than single- or dual-speed pumps. That’s because they use an electric magnet motor instead of an induction-style motor. Magnet motors allow for different speeds, so you can adapt the pump to different pool functions. As a result, your pump won’t need to go at full throttle all the time. Instead, the variable speed can respond to your pool’s needs and reduce your energy consumption by up to 90 per cent. 

Benefits of choosing an energy-efficient pool pump

Before we delve into the nuts and bolts of buying a pool pump, here are some reasons why pool owners around Australia are converting to energy-efficient pool pumps.

Lower energy consumption

Instead of running your pump at full power all day, as you would with a single-speed pool pump, a variable-speed pool pump can be adjusted to match your pool’s needs. For example, you can set a low speed for everyday filtration, a medium speed for cleaning and a high speed for backwashing and solar heating. Having the option of running your pump at low speed, with short bursts of higher speeds, means that you can save more energy and put less pressure on the grid.

Less noise

Because variable-speed pool pumps operate at lower speeds, some as low as 600 RPM, they don’t make as much noise. Models like the FloPro E3 Pool Pump, for example, generate no more than 50 decibels, which is the equivalent of running a dishwasher or refrigerator. 

By comparison, single-speed pool pumps can be anywhere between 65 and 90 decibels. Not only do quieter pool pumps make for a more enjoyable swimming experience (no loud drone in the background!), but you can also run them at night to take advantage of off-peak rates – without disrupting your neighbours or family.

More effective filtration

Variable-speed pool pumps have a slower flow rate than single-speed pumps, which means that the filter captures more debris and keeps your pool cleaner. In general, lower speeds cause less water turbulence during circulation, and the less turbulence you have, the easier it is for your filter to catch more particles. 

Lower running costs

While the upfront cost of a variable-speed pool pump can be high, operational costs are lower than they would be for a single-speed pool pump. The FloPro VS Pool Pump, for instance, can pay for itself in three to four seasons. After that, you’ll enjoy a 90 per cent reduction in energy use, which means lower running costs and fewer carbon emissions. To find out how much you can save with a variable-speed pump, use our handy pump calculator. 

Easy to automate

The beauty of variable-speed pool pumps is that you don’t have to turn them on and off. You can automate them to run for as long as you like, or even change the speed remotely to respond to your pool’s needs (for example, if there’s a sudden downpour). This can be done with a timer or by synching the pump with your chlorinator or your pool automation system. 

Source: Unsplash

Longer warranty

Given that single-speed pumps go at full throttle all the time and wear out quickly (depending on usage), they have shorter warranty periods of 1–3 years. Variable-speed pool pumps, however, often come with 3- to 5-year warranties. As a result, you’ll get more out of your pool pump and won’t be out of pocket if you need repairs. Check your warranty to see if it covers parts only or parts and labour. 

Increases the longevity of your pump

Unlike induction motors in single- or dual-speed pumps, variable-speed pool pumps use a magnet motor that causes less friction. This means better efficiency and less wear in the long run. Plus, the totally enclosed fan-cooled (TEFC) motor stops dust and moisture from entering the unit, protecting it from corrosion. 

You may be eligible for a rebate

Some councils or states/territories offer rebates when you upgrade from a single- to a variable-speed pool pump. Depending on where you live, you could get up to $250 off the price of a new pool pump. Check with your council or state/territory for eligibility requirements. 

How to buy an energy-efficient pool pump

Whether you’re building a new pool or upgrading your equipment, here’s what to look for when buying a variable-speed pool pump.

Energy rating

On 1 October 2022, mandatory energy ratings were introduced for pool pumps sold in Australia, making it easier than ever to choose the right pump for your pool. Most variable speed pumps will have a rating of up to 6. The higher the number, the more you save. 

According to Zodiac Pools, a 6-star pool pump uses 563 kilowatts per year, while a 1-star pool pump uses 1319 kilowatts per year. This can result in a saving of $719.31 per year. See the table below for more details.

Comparison of 6-star and 1-star pool pumps. Source: Zodiac Pools

Features

When buying a variable-speed pump, look for extra features that make the operation of your pump easy, efficient and safe. This could include a timer to program your pump, lower decibels for quiet operation, safety features (like built-in diagnostics that prevent overheating or freezing) or a large pump basket to reduce cleaning. 

Last, check to see if the pump is compatible with your automation system. There’s nothing worse than buying your dream pump only to find that it won’t sync with your pool controller! Better yet, buy all your equipment together so there won’t be any compatibility problems.

Pump size

Your pool needs to turn over its entire volume of water at least once a day for optimal filtration (also known as flow rate). To do this, you need a pump size that can handle the right volume of water. To calculate this, tell your pool shop (or supplier) the volume of the pool, how often you use it and your filter type. Remember, if your pool pump is too big, you could be wasting energy and overworking your filter. If it’s too small, it may lead to poor water circulation and the growth of bacteria or algae.  

Source: iStock

Connection or pipe size

If you’re upgrading to a variable-speed pool pump, make sure the pump and your plumbing are the same size. Choosing a pump that doesn’t match your pipes could affect water flow and damage your equipment. Your pool could always be replumbed to fit the new pump, but this may add to your costs.

In-ground or above-ground

Make sure you buy a pool pump that’s suited to your pool type. Generally, pool pumps for above-ground pools are simpler, sit below the waterline and need to be primed. Pool pumps for in-ground pools sit above the water line, are self-priming and can handle higher flow rates. Keep in mind that pumps designed for above-ground pools are cheaper and less powerful, so don’t be taken in by the price tag if you’ve got an in-ground pool! 

Summing up

Choosing the right pool pump can be a daunting task, and while single-speed pumps may seem cheaper at first, they aren’t always the best choice. If your goal is to reduce energy consumption, extend the life of your pump, improve water filtration, reduce noise and keep running costs low, a variable-speed pool pump is a step in the right direction. 

Before making a choice, though, consider these five factors: energy star rating, features, pump size, connection size and pool type. This will ensure you get the best performance – and the most savings – out of your pool pump. For more advice on making your pool more energy-efficient, dive into our Pool and Spa Guides.