In 2021, the U.S. Department of Energy passed a bill stating all pool owners must have a variable-speed pump. While you maybe dreading this costly upgrade, variable-speed pumps benefit your pool in many ways. Let’s talk about the seven benefits of having a variable-speed pool pump.
Standard single-speed pool pumps are known to be loud, even when running at lower speeds. These pumps may reach up to 90 decibels if you are within a few feet of the equipment. 90 decibels is equal to a subway train or a music concert. It is recommended to wear ear protection for sounds over 80 decibels due to hearing loss. However, variable-speed pool pumps are much quieter than single-speed.
Variable-speed pumps are quieter because the fan is enclosed. This reduces the decibel sound level significantly. Variable-speed pumps produce sound levels of around 45 decibels. The sound level is like having a lively conversation with a friend or a dishwasher.
Upgrading to a variable-speed pump reduces your energy use and monthly energy bill. You can change the pump to run at a lower RPMs. Most standard single-speed pool pumps cannot be changed. Lowering the speed of the pump cuts your energy cost. This means the motor spins at a lower speed and uses fewer watts. It may take more time to fill your pool when you lower your RPMs, but you reduce your energy usage by 50% and more.
Standard pool pumps are more likely to get overworked because you cannot lower the RPMs. A variable-speed pool pump has different settings to reduce the amount of work and is compatible with other pool equipment like cleaners, heaters, and more. This helps increase your energy savings by using different settings on your pool pump.
Variable-speed pumps allow pool owners to find the right speed for filtering, cleaning, heating, and other maintenance features of their pool. Single-speed pumps only run at 3450 RPM and cannot be adjusted. Two-speed pumps are another option for pool pumps, but it only runs on low (1725 RPM) or high (3450 RPM). Running your pool equipment constantly at higher RPMs will wear down the parts faster than operating them at lower speeds. Changing the flow rates of equipment helps parts not be overworked and operate at the correct speed for your pool.
You can easily change the settings or re-program certain features when using variable-speed pool pumps. If you are having issues calibrating the settings for your pool equipment, a professional pool service can help you.
Since single-speed pumps run at one constant speed, fine particles may not be filtered before going back into the pool. However, variable-speed pumps filter fine particles because they run at slower speeds. When the flow rate is reduced, it is easier for the pool’s filter to catch fine particles and other debris. Single-speed pumps go through filters quicker than variable-speed pumps because of the constant higher flow rates.
Using a variable-speed pump helps you find the right flow rate for your pool’s filter system and keep your pool sanitized. This decreases the chances of your pool becoming unsafe due to unfiltered debris or lack of sanitization. UV rays decrease the effectiveness of chlorine in pools resulting in an unsanitary pool. An unsanitary pool increases the likelihood of causing recreational water illnesses such as rashes and ear infections. Variable-speed pool pumps help maintain the correct levels of chlorine and keep your pool clean.
Most variable-speed pool pump manufacturers offer two and three-year warranties for the equipment. This includes parts and labor when you are buying the pool pump from a trusted manufacturer. Many standard pool pumps only have a one-year warranty for the equipment including parts and labor. However, warranty times may vary depending on how you purchased your variable-speed pump.
Be cautious when purchasing a variable-speed pump from online retailers. Warranty times may only be 30 days or have certain requirements when purchasing their product. Some requirements may include having a warranty for the parts, but no labor and the equipment must be installed by a pool professional. Before purchasing pool equipment online, read the fine print and see what warranty they offer for the pump.
Pool maintenance is important to increase the life of your pool. Single-speed pumps only run at high RPMs. Constantly running your pump at higher speeds exposes the motor to an excessive amount of heat. Excessive heat damages the motor and other components of the pump. Overworking the pool’s pump decreases its life and costs more money over time when you must constantly replace your equipment.
Variable-speed pumps run longer when programmed on a lower setting, but it reduces the amount of stress put on the equipment. This helps your pool’s pump and other parts last longer because they are not being overworked or exposed to high amounts of heat.
The 2021 variable pool pump bill states owners cannot have a single-speed pump unless it is a small in-ground pool, above-ground pool, or a pressure cleaner pump. Since the bill has passed, some pump manufacturers are not making single-speed models anymore. This has resulted in select states not allowing pool owners to install single-speed pumps.
However, most communities do not have a local ordinance in place for pool owners who choose single-speed pumps. Check with your local energy provider because there may be exceptions to who can get a rebate on their new pool pump.
You may be nervous about upgrading to a variable-speed pool pump, but they are a good investment to keep your pool in excellent condition. These pumps cost more upfront, but this option will save you the time and money you put into pool maintenance. If you need to repair or replace your pool’s pump, contact Priority Pool Service. Call us to get a free quote for your pool repair today!
