2 Best Pool Pumps for Inground Pools
The best pool pumps compete for performance and energy efficiency. While filtration is important inground pool pumps must keep up with the high demand of circulating chemicals operating power cleaners including sometimes fountains and other water features.
Single speed pool pumps cannot keep up with these high demands and have to operate at full capacity running up electricity bills and performing poorly reducing the motor’s life expectancy.
We have 2 strong recommendations to solve the single speed pool pump problem the Pentair IntelliFlo3 VSF and the Hayward TriStar VS (variable speed). Replacing is dependent on pool gallonage, flow rating needed, size of plumbing, filter size and electrical codes.
Both of these pumps can out perform a single speed pool pump, run more efficiently and save money on operation.
Our first pick is the Pentair IntelliFlo3 VSF
The Pentair IntelliFlo3 VSF is great for pools with attached waterfalls and spas. It is a perfect choice for any pool with a complex system requiring a top of the line pool pump combining variable speed with variable flow. Speed increases as demand warrants like when a spa kicks on, resistance is detected or more filtration is needed slowing down as demand falls off.
The general client for a pool pump of this caliber would be someone who would like the ability to run schedules, needs a quiet pump and would benefit from integration with Pentair automation. Large pools are a perfect fit not to mention you will enjoy the energy savings.
The Pentair IntelliFlo3 VSF retails between roughly $1,289 and $1,800 depending on the horsepower and board configuration.
Features of the Pentair IntelliFlo3 VSF
The Pentair Intelliflo3 VSF can be programmed to an operating schedule, that can regulate speed to operate filters, heating, spa use, cleaning and more. The variable speed provides savings in energy use by allowing slower speeds for filtering while increasing speeds for power demand.
Our next recommended pump. The Hayward TriStar VS
For pools that don’t need extra flow control the Hayward TriStar VS offers another programmable variable-speed pool pump that combines low speed while filtering and high speed to power water features vacuuming and more. This upgrade pump replaces older single speed pool pumps for standard application on small to medium pools especially those already powered by Hayward pumps.
The Hayward Tristar VS retails between roughly $1,800 to $2600 depending on the horsepower and model.
Features of the Hayward Tristar VS
Digital controls, timers, programmable speed and diagnostics are just some of the features you get with TriStar VS models. The layout of these controls vary by model. An excellent all around variable speed pool pump especially if you are replacing another Hayward pump with compatible plumbing. Always refer to the pump manufacturer for specific models and compatibility.
Factors to consider when choosing a pool pump
Some factors to consider when choosing a pool pump for your inground pool include cost versus savings, your specific pool size in volume and flow demands. Will you be using an automation system or using fixed speed settings?.
The Hayward Tristar VS & Pentair IntelliFlo3 VSF can be operated by an app on your phone or controlled on a schedule using a controller.
Larger pools with water features, fountains and attached spas have high demands while smaller standard residential pools may not. It is advisable to contact or reference the manufacturer specs before purchasing your pool pump.
The savings in energy costs using a variable speed pool pump versus a single speed can be significant up to 90% over a year. Your savings may vary and depend on pool size, volume, plumbing size, if you are using automation and the features of your pool.
By Leo Rosa
