There is a whole world of difference between where pool technology was 10 to 15 years back and where it is now. If you have not kept yourself updated with the latest pool technology and gadgets, you may still be stuck with a pool pump that runs only at one speed. But if you’re here reading this, that is about to change.
Before backyard pools were a common household item, the options for pool pumps were limited. There was the noisy, single-speed, big electricity bills, with-few-advantages pool pump, but it was the only option back then. Have we got good news for you!
Today you can get pool pumps with several speeds. Even though we say it is an option, it really is a must-have for all pool owners. Here, we will point out important facts to encourage you and push you one step closer to ditching your single-speed pool pump and getting a new variable-speed pool pump.
These old pool pumps only offer one single speed.
Your basic single-speed pool pump offers just one speed, so you don’t have the option of running the pump on a lower setting according to your needs. A basic single-speed pool pump runs at 3,450 RPM (Revolutions Per Minute), which is the highest power setting for a pool pump, and since you can’t reduce it, you are stuck at this speed even if it is not required, making a considerable dent in your wallet. With a variable speed pump, you will save energy and money.
Additional Read: Energy Saving Tips for Swimming Pool That You Need to Know
Advantages of variable speed pool pumps
–Offers variable speeds –
Just like the name suggests, a variable-speed pool pump gives you the option of various speeds. So you don’t have to run the pump constantly at high speed, which is not energy efficient and, as mentioned, can be expensive.
–Saves energy –
In line with the previous point, did you know that a variable-speed pool pump uses 50-70% less energy than a single-speed pool pump? Isn’t that crazy? If that point alone does not make you make the switch right now, you are one tough reader to please.
-Built to last –
A variable-speed pool pump is fully enclosed in a protective casing and has an inbuilt fan that prevents overheating. The protective case protects the interior, making sure it keeps on a quality long term performance.
-Easy to install and use –
The installation is simple, just like for a single-speed pump, nothing fancy, even though this pump offers way more features. A pool technician can install it for you and also explain how to set up this pump. Since there are various speeds, you must familiarize yourself with which speed is suitable to your needs and when. Once you have figured this out, using this pool pump will be a walk in the park.
-Operates silently –
Since these pumps have a protective case, they do not make a single noise compared to its single-speed variant. So say goodbye to noisy pool pumps and hello to more energy-efficient and silent pool pumps!
Single-speed pool pump vs. variable-speed pool pump
Single-speed pool pump
Pro –
- The initial cost of installation and operating is very low.
Cons –
- It is very noisy
- Cannot change the speed of the pump
- It is not energy-efficient
- It causes a steep spike in your electricity bill
Variable-speed pool pump
Pros –
- Offers different speeds
- It is extremely energy-efficient, uses 50-70% less energy
- Keeps your electricity bill in check
- It is less noisy
- It comes enclosed in a protective casing, making it more durable
Con –
- The initial cost of buying and installing is high compared to a single-speed pool pump.
Small Pools, the Affinity law, and Energy Costs
In simple terms, the smaller the pool, the lower the speed of the pool pump is needed, and the lower your energy cost will be. For example, with a 13 x 26 x 4 feet pool, a small swimming pool, the pump will filter out 30 to 40 gallons of water daily.
For a variable-speed swimming pool pump will cost you close to $84 in 6 months because of the unique feature of slowing down the motor speed, whereas filtered with a single-speed, it costs about $275.
What a world of difference, right? Then why not save so much money and spend a little extra on the initial cost? It’s only wise to do so!
Why should you make the switch today?
Suppose you want to be mindful of your spending patterns and be aware of your carbon footprint while enjoying the luxuries of a swimming pool in your backyard, in that case, switching from a single-speed pool pump to a variable-speed pump today is the smartest decision you can take for yourself and the planet!
Additional Read: All About Pool Pumps: Pool Pump Life Expectancy and Common Problems