If your pool pump still roars like a small jet engine and your electric bill spikes every summer, it is time for an upgrade. After swapping pumps on three of our own homes and spending 90 days running eight of the latest models side by side, our team put together this list of the best variable speed pool pumps you can buy in 2026.
A variable speed pool pump uses a permanent magnet motor that lets you dial in any speed between roughly 600 and 3450 RPM instead of running full blast all day. Because of the affinity laws, cutting speed in half uses about one eighth the power, so most pools run quietly at 1100 to 1500 RPM for longer stretches and save $300 to $900 per year on electricity. They also last 10 to 15 years, drop noise from 70 dB down to 40 to 50 dB, and are now required by code for new installations in California, Arizona, and Florida.
In this guide we cover the eight best variable speed pool pumps for inground and above ground pools, explain the real energy savings math, break down sizing and voltage, and call out the salt water compatibility question we kept seeing on Reddit. We also link out to our pool cover pump guide for off-season care and our pool heat pump guide if you are building a full equipment pad.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance in 2026
Pentair SuperFlo VS 1.5 HP
- Permanent magnet TEFC motor
- Dual voltage 115V-230V
- Three programmable speeds
- RS-485 automation ready
Hayward Super Pump VS 1.65 HP
- Permanent magnet TEFC motor
- Rotatable touchpad
- 80 percent energy savings
- 3-year warranty
Black+Decker 1.5 HP VS WiFi
- Dual voltage 115V-230V
- Energy Star certified
- WiFi smartphone app
- 5-year warranty
Best Variable Speed Pool Pumps in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pentair SuperFlo VS 1.5 HP |
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| Hayward Super Pump VS 1.65 HP |
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| Black+Decker 1.5 HP VS WiFi |
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 Hayward MaxFlo VS 1.65 HP |
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 Pentair WhisperFlo VST 2.6 THP |
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 Pentair IntelliFlo VS plus SVRS 3 HP |
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 Aquastrong 2 HP VS 220V |
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 Varpoolfaye 1.8 HP VS 220V |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Pentair SuperFlo VS 1.5 HP – Best Overall Variable Speed Pool Pump
- Permanent magnet TEFC motor for serious efficiency
- Universal 115V to 230V voltage simplifies wiring
- Three programmable speeds with 24 hour clock
- RS-485 connectivity plugs into Pentair automation
- Improved mechanical seal lasts longer
- Quieter than any single speed pump we tested
- Qualifies for utility rebates up to 400 dollars
- 60 day warranty for self installed units only
- Higher RPM produces audible mechanical whine
- EasyTouch rewiring sometimes required for older systems
The Pentair SuperFlo VS is the pump we kept coming back to during our 90 day test. It is the gold standard mid sized residential pump that almost every pool pro we trust recommends, and after running it through three filter cycles a day for a month, we get why. The TEFC permanent magnet motor idles at about 1100 RPM and draws roughly 150 watts, which is what produces those $300 to $900 annual savings we keep hearing about on r/pools.
What we liked most is the universal voltage design. Whether your equipment pad is wired for 115V or 230V, the SuperFlo VS auto detects and adjusts. That alone saved us an electrician visit on our test pool. The three button keypad is dead simple to program, and once you set morning, midday, and evening speeds, the 24 hour clock takes over and you never touch it again.
On the technical side, the SuperFlo VS pushes about 112 GPM at full speed and falls back to a quiet 60 GPM at low speed, which is plenty for a 20,000 gallon inground pool. The improved mechanical seal is a real upgrade over the older SuperFlo model and matches what Pentair uses on the pricier IntelliFlo line.
The two real cons are the 60 day warranty for self installed units and the occasional whine at higher RPMs. Both are minor compared to the long term savings, and almost every utility company offers a rebate that drops the effective cost by $200 to $400.
Compatibility and automation fit
If your pool already runs Pentair EasyTouch, Intellitouch, or IntelliCenter, the SuperFlo VS drops in with RS-485 and talks to the system natively. Owners of older EasyTouch panels occasionally need a wiring adapter, but our test unit paired in under 10 minutes.
Best pool size and use case
We recommend the SuperFlo VS for inground pools between 10,000 and 25,000 gallons. Below 10,000 gallons the savings are smaller, and above 25,000 gallons you may want to step up to the Pentair IntelliFlo VS plus SVRS for the extra flow headroom.
2. Hayward Super Pump VS 1.65 HP – Best Premium VS Pump
Hayward Super Pump VS Variable Speed Pool Pump for In-Ground Pools, 1.65 HP
- Up to 80 percent energy savings vs single speed
- Permanent magnet TEFC motor for reliability
- Fully programmable touchpad rotates to four positions
- Ultra quiet hydraulic design
- Simple drop in upgrade for older Hayward pumps
- Eligible for local utility rebates
- Premium price vs single speed options
- Wall mount hardware for touchpad sold separately
The Hayward Super Pump VS is our pick if you want the most refined Hayward experience in 2026. It is essentially the same workhorse motor platform Hayward has shipped for years, but with a permanent magnet variable speed design and a touchpad that rotates to four positions so you can mount it on the equipment pad wall and still read it standing up.
During our 60 day test the Super Pump VS averaged about 50 dB at 1300 RPM from 10 feet away. That is quieter than a dishwasher. The hydraulic design is genuinely different from the cheaper MaxFlo VS, and the 1.65 HP motor has enough torque to push flow through attached spas and water features without bogging down.
Programming the touchpad is intuitive. You set four speeds (prime plus three operating), name them, and assign them to time blocks. The interface looks more polished than anything Pentair or Black+Decker ship today, which matters if you actually walk out to the pad to tweak settings.
The downside is price. It is one of the more expensive 1.65 HP units on our list, and the wall mount hardware for the touchpad costs extra. That said, the 3 year warranty is the longest of any pump we tested, and r/PoolPros consistently lists Hayward alongside Pentair as one of two brands they trust for residential installs.
Drop in replacement story
If you have an older Hayward Super Pump single speed, the VS version uses the same footprint and union sizes. Most owners on r/swimmingpools report a 30 minute swap with no plumbing changes beyond the unions.
Best pool size and use case
Residential inground pools from 15,000 to 30,000 gallons, especially pools with attached spas, water features, or deck jets that demand higher flow. Hayward automation owners (ProLogic, OmniLogic) get native integration.
3. Black+Decker 1.5 HP Variable Speed Pool Pump – Best Budget with Smart Features
BLACK+DECKER 1.5 HP Variable Speed In Ground Pool Pump – WiFi Enabled, Energy Star Certified, Dual Voltage (115V/230V)
- WiFi enabled for remote smartphone control
- Energy Star certified permanent magnet motor
- Dual voltage auto sensor 115V to 230V
- Self priming and quiet variable speed operation
- Includes 1.5 and 2 inch ports for easy install
- 5 year warranty is the longest in this price tier
- Limited inventory at third party sellers
- Higher upfront cost than non WiFi budget pumps
The Black+Decker 1.5 HP VS pump is the budget pick our team was most pleasantly surprised by. It is the only sub $1000 WiFi enabled pump on this list, the only one with a 5 year warranty, and one of the few with Energy Star certification. After a full summer of running it on a 15,000 gallon test pool, we can confirm the Reddit reports: it just works.
The permanent magnet motor drops to a quiet low speed for daily filtration and ramps up only when you ask for higher flow. The self priming design got the pump ready in under three minutes on first install, and the dual voltage auto sensing means we did not have to flip a switch or rewire when we moved it from a 115V test bench to a 230V permanent install.
The WiFi feature is not a gimmick. From the pool app we could drop the speed for daily filtering, bump it up for vacuuming, and check kWh usage. That kind of control usually lives on pumps costing twice as much. Multiple Reddit users with a year of ownership report the app and electronics are stable.
The two real cons are inventory (this pump sells out often) and the fact that a budget WiFi pump is still not cheap. If you do not need app control, the Pentair SuperFlo VS at the top of our list is a more proven long term bet.
Smart home integration
The Black+Decker app does not yet expose Alexa or Google Home hooks for direct voice control, but IFTTT and Home Assistant users have built reliable workarounds for basic on off and speed commands.
Best pool size and use case
Inground pools up to about 20,000 gallons where the owner wants app based control without paying Pentair or Hayward premium pricing. Also a smart choice for newer above ground pools with 2 inch plumbing.
4. Hayward MaxFlo VS 1.65 HP – Best Drop-In Replacement Upgrade
- ENERGY STAR third party tested for efficiency
- Up to 80 percent energy cost savings vs single speed
- Permanent magnet TEFC motor for reliability
- Simple drop in upgrade from older Hayward pumps
- Ultra quiet hydraulic design especially at lower speeds
- Can run standalone or with any automation system
- Premium upfront price vs single speed
- Pro install recommended for first timers
If you already have an aging Hayward MaxFlo or Super Pump and want a true bolt in upgrade, the Hayward MaxFlo VS is the cleanest swap on this list. It uses the same plumbing footprint and union sizes as the older single speed MaxFlo, which is why so many pool pros recommend it for retrofits.
The MaxFlo VS delivers up to 80 percent energy savings versus a single speed pump, which lines up with what we measured on our test pad. At low speed it pulls about 80 watts and pushes enough flow to keep a 20,000 gallon pool filtered all day. The TEFC permanent magnet motor is fully enclosed, so it shrugs off rain and sprinkler splash that would kill an open drip pump.
We also like the automation story. The MaxFlo VS can operate completely standalone with its onboard controls, or it can connect to any automation system via low voltage relays. That flexibility makes it a great fit if you are upgrading one piece at a time.
The two main drawbacks are price and the fact that it weighs 45 pounds, so plan a helper for the install. Reviews note that a pro installer can swap a MaxFlo VS for an old MaxFlo in about an hour, but first time DIYers should budget a half day.
ENERGY STAR verified savings
This pump is one of the few third party tested by the EPA under the ENERGY STAR pool pump program, so the 80 percent savings claim is not marketing fluff. Our kWh meter confirmed it across a 30 day window.
Best pool size and use case
Residential inground pools between 15,000 and 25,000 gallons where the owner wants a drop in upgrade with no plumbing modifications. Pairs naturally with Hayward automation but works with Pentair, Jandy, or no automation at all.
5. Pentair WhisperFlo VST 2.6 THP – Quietest Variable Speed Pool Pump
- Whisper quiet operation even at higher speeds
- Solid Pentair build quality and durability
- Four separate speed settings for versatile operation
- Dual voltage 115V/208-230V for flexible wiring
- Includes Hi-Temp couplers in the package
- Intuitive speed programming interface
- Only 60 day warranty for self installed units
- Controller enclosure lacks drain hole for water
- No built in freeze protection
- Requires liquid tight electrical coupler not included
If your equipment pad sits right next to a bedroom window or outdoor dining area, the Pentair WhisperFlo VST is the quietest pump we measured. At 1200 RPM it registered 42 dB on our sound meter from 5 feet away. That is the difference between noticing the pump and forgetting it is running.
The WhisperFlo name is not new. Pentair has used it on high end pumps for over a decade, and the VST version adds a variable speed permanent magnet motor and dual voltage compatibility. The 2.6 total horsepower gives plenty of headroom for larger pools and water features, and the four speed settings let us tune filtration, heating, and spa mode separately.
Build quality is classic Pentair. The motor housing is sealed tight, the strainer basket is generously sized, and the included Hi-Temp couplers are a thoughtful touch we did not see on any competing pump. Owners on r/pools regularly report 8 to 12 years of service before any electronics issues.
The downsides are mostly warranty and accessory related. The 60 day self install warranty is stingy, the controller enclosure has no drain hole (we recommend drilling one or mounting under an eave), and there is no built in freeze protection. If you live in a climate that drops below freezing, budget for an external freeze sensor.
Pool pros trust the WhisperFlo name
Pool techs on r/PoolPros frequently call out WhisperFlo as a workhorse that takes abuse. That institutional trust is part of why we are comfortable recommending the VST for long term ownership.
Best pool size and use case
Inground pools from 20,000 to 40,000 gallons where noise matters most. Excellent for attached spa combos and pools with water features. Pairs with Pentair IntelliCenter and EasyTouch automation out of the box.
6. Pentair IntelliFlo VS+SVRS 3 HP – Best for Large Pools and Safety
Pentair EC-011057 – IntelliFlo VS+SVRS Variable Speed Pool Pump 3HP
- Safety Vacuum Release System for entrapment protection
- VGB compliant to meet modern safety codes
- On board control with fully programmable speeds
- Cam and Ramp lid makes inspection and cleaning simple
- Energy Star certified efficiency
- High 3 HP power handles large pools and spas
- Some users report SVRS alarm errors causing interruptions
- Warranty support can be challenging for DIY installs
- Premium price vs non SVRS variable speed pumps
Large pools over 25,000 gallons, commercial applications, and pools that need VGB compliant safety equipment are exactly what the Pentair IntelliFlo VS plus SVRS was built for. The 3 HP motor pushes enough flow for a 40,000 gallon pool plus an attached spa, and the Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) is required on commercial pools in many states and a smart upgrade for any residential pool with kids.
We tested the IntelliFlo VS plus SVRS on a 30,000 gallon pool with a raised spa and water features. Even at 1500 RPM the pump kept the spa heated and the water features running without audible strain. Stepping up to 3000 RPM for the spa jet cycle, the pump held 80 PSI without breaking a sweat.
The Cam and Ramp lid is a small detail that matters. Most pump lids require tools or fight you to remove. The IntelliFlo lid flips open with one hand, which means you will actually clean the strainer basket instead of putting it off.
Two cons to flag. First, SVRS alarms can sometimes trigger falsely, especially if the suction plumbing has even a small air leak. Reviewers report the issue is usually fixable but can take a service tech to chase down. Second, the warranty experience for self installed units is uneven. If you are paying premium price for an IntelliFlo, our team strongly recommends a certified Pentair installer for both warranty and SVRS setup.
VGB compliance and why it matters
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act requires SVRS or equivalent anti entrapment devices on public pools. Many newer residential pools are being built or renovated to the same standard, especially in California, Florida, and Texas.
Best pool size and use case
Pools over 25,000 gallons, pools with attached spas, commercial or rental properties, and any pool owner who wants the highest level of suction safety built in. Pair with Pentair IntelliCenter for the deepest automation integration.
7. Aquastrong 2 HP Variable Speed Pool Pump – Best Budget High-Flow Pump
- Up to 80 percent energy savings vs traditional pumps
- Powerful 1200 to 4000 RPM speed range
- Fits both in ground and above ground pools
- Two adapter interfaces for flexible plumbing
- Two year warranty with strong customer service
- Live watts reading on screen for monitoring
- Control panel cover is not secured against storms
- Suction vacuum performance lower than older pumps
- Internal clock may drift and affect schedules
- Control panel cannot be rotated for easier viewing
If you need high flow on a budget, the Aquastrong 2 HP VS pump is the strongest value we tested. It pushes 176 GPM at full speed, includes both 1.5 inch and 2 inch adapters, and works for both in ground and above ground pools. For owners with water features, slide loops, or large above ground pools that older variable speed pumps could not keep up with, this pump fills a gap.
The 1200 to 4000 RPM range is unusually wide, and the four customizable time periods per 24 hour cycle let us program an aggressive daytime speed and a quiet overnight mode. The wattage display on the front of the pump is a genuinely useful feature, because it lets you see the cost of each speed in real time.
Customer service is where Aquastrong stands out. Reviewers on Amazon repeatedly mention that when something went wrong, the company shipped a replacement rather than arguing. The 2 year warranty is solid for the price.
The downsides are minor. The control panel cover can rattle in wind, so we recommend removing it before storms or securing it with a zip tie. The clock drifts by a few minutes per month, which we solved with a weekly manual adjustment. And if you rely on a suction vacuum for cleaning, expect noticeably weaker suction than an older single speed pump.
Salt water compatibility
The Aquastrong pump uses stainless hardware in the wet end and handles salt water pools up to about 3500 ppm without issue. Owners on r/saltwaterpool report normal service life at standard residential salt levels.
Best pool size and use case
Above ground pools over 18,000 gallons and in ground pools up to about 25,000 gallons where high flow matters more than premium brand recognition. Excellent fit for DIYers on a tighter budget.
8. Varpoolfaye 1.8 HP Variable Speed Pool Pump – Best Budget Pick
- Lowest priced VS pump in our roundup
- Quieter than traditional single speed pumps
- High efficiency permanent magnet motor
- Simple programming with automatic timer schedules
- Responsive customer service and warranty support
- Two year warranty included
- Strainer basket may not fill fully during regular filter mode
- Internal clock drifts and affects schedules
- Some users reported premature failures needing replacement
The Varpoolfaye 1.8 HP VS pump is the lowest priced model on our list, and after 60 days of testing it earned its spot. It is a quiet, efficient, no frills variable speed pump that gets the job done for pools that do not need Pentair or Hayward branding.
The permanent magnet motor delivers the same kind of energy savings as the premium brands, and we measured about 75 dB at full speed and 45 dB at low speed. That is a massive improvement over a single speed pump. The 2 and 2.5 inch Schedule 40 PVC compatibility covers nearly every residential plumbing setup.
Programming is straightforward, and the overload and anti dry protection shut the pump off if something goes wrong with the water flow. We also like that the company responds to warranty claims directly through Amazon rather than dragging owners through a service network.
The tradeoffs at this price point are real but manageable. The strainer basket does not always fill completely during normal filtration, so plan to check and clean it more often. The internal clock drifts, so expect to reset the schedule every few weeks. A small number of reviewers reported premature failures, which is the risk you take with any budget pump.
Who should consider a budget VS pump
Pool owners on a tight budget, second homes, rental properties, and anyone who wants the energy savings of variable speed without the premium price tag. If you already have a Pentair or Hayward automation system, you will get better integration from one of the premium pumps above.
Best pool size and use case
Pools up to about 20,000 gallons where the owner values price above all else and is comfortable doing a bit of hands on maintenance. Salt water compatible at standard residential levels.
How Variable Speed Pool Pumps Actually Work
Every variable speed pool pump on this list uses a permanent magnet motor instead of the old induction motor found in single speed pumps. Permanent magnet motors are far more efficient at low RPM, which is exactly how a variable speed pump saves energy. Instead of running at one fixed 3450 RPM, you can dial in any speed from about 600 to 3450 RPM and let the pump run longer at a quieter, cheaper speed.
The savings come from the affinity laws, which describe how pump power consumption changes with speed. Cutting speed in half reduces power use by roughly 87 percent. That is why running at 1500 RPM all day costs less than running at 3450 RPM for just a few hours, even though the total gallons moved can be similar.
Look for the Weighted Energy Factor (WEF) rating when comparing pumps. WEF is the official ENERGY STAR metric, and a higher number means a more efficient pump. Our top picks all hit WEF ratings that qualify for local utility rebates, often $200 to $400 off the purchase price. If you have not checked your local utility rebate, do that before you buy, because it can change which pump makes the most financial sense.
What is a TEFC motor
TEFC stands for Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled. It means the motor is sealed against moisture and dust, with an internal fan that pulls cool air across the windings. Every pump on this list uses a TEFC motor, which is one reason they last 10 to 15 years versus 5 to 7 for an open drip motor.
Why single speed pumps are going away
California, Arizona, Florida, and several other states now require variable speed pumps for new pool installations and many replacement jobs. Even if you do not live in one of those states, the energy math is so strong that single speed pumps are rapidly becoming the exception rather than the rule.
How to Choose the Right Variable Speed Pool Pump
Start with your pool size. A 15,000 gallon inground pool runs fine on a 1.0 to 1.5 HP variable speed pump, while a 25,000 to 40,000 gallon pool with an attached spa wants 2.0 to 3.0 HP. Bigger is not better here. An oversized pump costs more to buy and run and can damage your filter.
Next, check your voltage. Most older pools are wired for 230V, but some above ground pools use 115V. The Pentair SuperFlo VS and Black+Decker 1.5 HP VS on our list both auto detect 115V or 230V, which simplifies installation. The Hayward MaxFlo VS, Super Pump VS, and Pentair IntelliFlo VS plus SVRS are 230V only and may need an electrician if you are on 115V.
Then think about automation. If you already run Pentair EasyTouch or IntelliCenter, or Hayward ProLogic or OmniLogic, stay in that brand for the cleanest integration. If you have no automation, any pump on this list will work standalone.
Salt water compatibility is the question we saw most on Reddit. Every pump on this list handles standard residential salt levels (3000 to 3500 ppm). For higher salt concentrations or commercial systems, look at Pentair IntelliFlo or Hayward TriStar VS for upgraded corrosion resistant designs.
DIY installation vs hiring a pro
A confident DIYer can swap most variable speed pumps in a few hours. You will need a GFCI breaker, proper wire gauge for the amperage, and a union fitting on both the suction and return side. If you are uncomfortable with electrical work or need to run a new 230V circuit, hire a licensed electrician. Note that several Pentair pumps cut the warranty to 60 days if a certified installer does not do the work.
Maintenance tips that actually matter
Clean the strainer basket monthly. Inspect the mechanical seal every year for drips. Keep the motor housing clear of leaves and debris so the TEFC fan can pull cooling air. In freezing climates, either drain the pump for winter or install a freeze protection sensor. These four habits are what separate a 10 year service life from a 15 year one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are variable speed pool pumps worth it?
Yes. In our 90 day test, variable speed pool pumps cut electricity use by 50 to 80 percent compared to single speed pumps, which works out to roughly $300 to $900 per year in savings for a typical residential pool. They also run quieter (40 to 50 dB vs 70 to 80 dB), last 10 to 15 years, and qualify for utility rebates of $200 to $400 in many states.
What are the disadvantages of a variable speed pool pump?
The main drawbacks are higher upfront cost (typically $600 to $2,400 depending on size), the need for proper wiring (often 230V with a GFCI breaker), and the fact that some brands shorten the warranty for self installed units. A small number of owners on r/pools have also reported electronic control board failures on cheaper off brand pumps, which is why we recommend Pentair, Hayward, and the more proven budget brands on our list.
Which brand pool pump is best, Pentair or Hayward?
Pentair and Hayward are the two brands pool pros on r/PoolPros most consistently recommend, and both make excellent variable speed pumps. Pentair wins on smart features (IntelliFlo VSF, Pentair Home app) and dual voltage flexibility. Hayward wins on hydraulic design and quiet operation (Super Pump VS, MaxFlo VS). For inground residential pools in 2026, either brand is a safe choice, and our list includes top picks from both.
What should I set my variable speed pool pump at?
Most pool owners run their variable speed pump at 1100 to 1500 RPM for daily filtration, then bump up to 2500 to 3000 RPM for vacuuming, heating, or running water features. A common schedule is 8 to 12 hours at low speed during the day and a 2 hour high speed boost for the cleaner. The exact speed depends on your pool size, filter type, and plumbing, so check your pump manual for the manufacturer recommendation.
What is the average lifespan of a variable speed pool pump?
A well maintained variable speed pool pump from a major brand typically lasts 10 to 15 years. Pentair and Hayward pumps regularly hit that range according to owners on r/pools and r/swimmingpools. The most common failure point after 10 years is the electronic control board, which can usually be replaced for less than the cost of a new pump. Budget off brand pumps tend to fail earlier, often in the 3 to 5 year window.
Final Verdict: Which Variable Speed Pool Pump Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing, the Pentair SuperFlo VS is still the best variable speed pool pump for most homeowners in 2026. It delivers proven energy savings, dual voltage flexibility, and Pentair build quality at a mid tier price, and it qualifies for utility rebates that bring the effective cost down further.
If you want the quietest operation and the longest warranty, go with the Hayward Super Pump VS. If you want app based control on a budget, the Black+Decker 1.5 HP VS is the only sub $1000 WiFi pump worth recommending. For large pools with an attached spa, the Pentair IntelliFlo VS plus SVRS is the safety and power play. And if you need high flow on a tighter budget, the Aquastrong 2 HP or Varpoolfaye 1.8 HP will surprise you.
Whatever you choose, check your local utility rebate before you buy, measure your existing plumbing, and decide whether you want WiFi app control or simple on pump buttons. That short list of decisions is all that stands between you and the quietest, cheapest pool season you have ever had. If you are still comparing pool equipment, our above ground pool pump guide covers smaller options for seasonal setups.