Which Pool Pump is Better: Single Speed, Two Speed or Variable Speed?

One of the most common questions we get from our customers is "Which type of pool pump do I need for my pool?" With the different pool pump options, this article will help you understand the differences between them so you can make the best decisions when designing a new pool or replacing old equipment.

Single-speed pumps run at a constant speed and are by far the cheapest option of all pumps in terms of the upfront purchase price. Using and maintaining them is a relatively simple process. Once they are wired and connected to the pool, they can simply be turned on and off. It is highly recommended to connect these pumps to a timer so that they turn on or off automatically. All the "run time" of the pump depends on the horsepower of the pump and the size of the pool. (Remember: bigger is not always better!)

These pool pumps are generally louder than variable-speed pumps on low to medium-speed settings and are generally less efficient in terms of electricity. No matter what you're doing (heating water, pumping a vacuum, or just letting it run), these pumps draw constant power, which can mean very high electricity bills. Depending on the size of your pool and the area you live in, it can cost as much as $1,000 per swimming season per year. The typical life expectancy of pumps varies, but we have to say that these pumps can be used for an average of 3-10 years to start having problems.

Two-speed pumps are in the same electrical category as single-speed pumps, but the main difference is that they operate at "high speed" and "low speed." In terms of upfront costs, two-speed pumps also cost a bit more than single-speed pumps. But if done right, you can save a lot of energy.

How are the two speeds used? The low-speed setting is used for general daily swimming needs for cycling and chlorination. The high-speed setting is used when heating water, cleaning swimming pools, and water features, or bathing with a heavy load.

Two-speed pumps still use induction motors, like single-speed pumps, which consume a lot of electricity in order to operate. Also, while a two-speed pump can be switched to a lower speed, there is no way to customize or adjust the flow. This can give you a headache trying to get the pump to work with all your water features and still keep your pool running efficiently. If you end up not using a low-speed setting because you need high speed all the time, why buy a two-speed pump in the first place?

Variable speed pumps run at different speeds and can be fully programmed to run at different speeds at all times of the day. Because of the motor and programming options, they are the most expensive pumps in terms of the upfront purchase price. Instead of using an induction motor like a single-speed or two-speed pump, variable-speed pumps use permanent magnet motors, similar to those found in hybrid vehicles, which can save the average pool owner up to 90% in energy costs. This means that shifting usually pays for itself in 2-3 pool seasons! 

Also, these motors at "low to medium speed" will be much quieter. Clients often say they can't hear the pump running at all, which in turn makes their backyard experience more peaceful and peaceful. Additionally, the variable speed pump is fan cooled and has a longer life expectancy than single or two-speed pumps

Hope this helps you decide which pump is set up for you and your pool needs! If you want to buy a swimming pool pump, welcome to contact us.

MAYGO is a professional custom swimming pool pump supplier. MAYGO POOL focuses on providing professional technical solutions for residential and commercial swimming pools. At present, we have provided swimming pool solutions for thousands of customers in North America, South America, Europe, Australia, etc.