In the United States of America, a new variable speed pool pump law has been introduced to require that all new and replacement inground swimming pool filtration pumps are variable speed pumps. All swimming pool pumps must be manufactured to meet minimum efficiency standards being legislated for U.S. homes and businesses. The regulations don’t just apply to pool filtration pumps. All water pumps are subject to the new Department of Energy regulations, regardless of application.
The US Department of Energy is the authority that regulates this variable speed pool pump law from July 2021.
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What is a Variable Speed Pool Pump?
A variable speed pool pump operates at varying rates of power output to match the filtration workload requirement of a pool. These pumps use the latest electric motor technology – brushless, magnetic, direct current motors. That is similar to the motors in electric cars.
This new pump technology saves up to 80% electrical power usage with a domestic pool filtration system.
These pumps are most efficient when they are run on low speeds most of the time, with higher speeds used only as needed, such as to drive the automatic pool cleaner, or to heat the pool.
Variable speed pumps are more expensive than traditional single speed pumps, however, the payback period for switching to a variable speed pool pump is only about two years. That is, it will pay for itself from electricity savings over the next two years.
Note: Manufacturers will be no longer manufacture single speed pool pumps as they don’t comply with new energy efficiency regulations.
A single speed pool pump only operates at one set speed which is typically about 3000-4000 rpm. This fixed power output is not ideal for every filtration application. Sometimes the motor strains to keep up with the workload, other times the motor over-revs with a light workload. As a result, single speed motors are not energy efficient and tend to wear out faster than a variable speed pool pump.
Variable Speed Pool Pump Advantages
- Latest electric motor technology.
- Reduce electrical power requirements to operate a pool filtration system.
- Operate the filter for a longer period each day with less power consumption.
- The motor varies power output to match filtration requirement.
- Programmable time and power settings.
- The pump uses a brushless, magnetic, direct current motor.
- Variable speed motors are a lot quieter than single speed motors.
- Motor runs cooler and lasts longer than single speed motors.
Many variable speed pool pumps allow the user to program the power level and time period of operation. The pump will automatically perform at the right speed at the right time to get the job done. This helps save even more electricity and keeps the pump quieter.
Do I Have to Replace My Pool Filter Pump?
No. You do not need to buy a new pump motor if your existing pool pump motor is working well. If the existing pump motor fails or you want to upgrade your filtration system you will need to purchase a variable speed pool pump motor. After July 2021, businesses will only sell variable speed pumps so you won’t have the option to install a single speed motor.
All new or replacement filter pumps over 1.0 THP must be variable speed.
Total Horsepower (THP) = Horsepower (HP) x Service Factor (SF)
The total horsepower can be calculated by multiplying the horsepower and service factor together. This parameters are found on the motor plate.
Are There Exemptions or Exceptions?
Yes, there are a few exceptions to the rule.
The regulations apply to inground pool pumps between 1 and 5 THP.
The law does not apply to:
- Waterfall pumps
- Booster pumps for pressure pool cleaners
- Above ground pool pumps
- Pumps less than 1 THP (Total Horse Power)
- Pumps greater than 5 THP
- Integrated pumps on portable or inflatable pools
The vast majority of booster pumps for pressure cleaners already meet the efficiency guidelines.
Even though above ground pools are exempt, you can use a variable speed pool pump with an above ground pool.
Variable Speed Pool Pump Installation
A variable speed pump looks similar and is installed in exactly the same way to a traditional single speed pump. The inlet and outlet plumbing are the same as other pool pumps. There are side or top mount pumps so select the one that makes it easiest to connect to your filter.
Things to consider when selecting a new pump:
- The flow rate of the filter.
- The power of the pump to match the filter’s flow rate
- The water flow resistance in the system. A filtration system further from the pool, a larger filter or a system with more appliances in the line (i.e. water heater, salt chlorinator, multiport valve etc.) will have a higher resistance and require more pump power drive the water through the system.
- How to connect the pump to the filter plumbing. It’s easier to get a pump that matches the existing plumbing, otherwise you need to change the plumbing.
The easiest pump to connect is if your current pump brand is available in a variable speed version because the plumbing will match up, the flow characteristics will match your current pump, and it will also match the design flow rate of your pool filter.
Note: Don’t purchase a variable speed pool pump that is too large or too powerful for your filter as it will not save much money and may damage the filter or cause cavitation (vibration) issues with your filtration system.
Conclusion
During our lives we have seen and will continue to see lots of changes in technology. Variable speed pool pump law is another technology advancement that enhances our lives. These pumps are quieter, improve the filtration of pool water and reduce power consumption. Good water circulation and filtering is the key to a sparkling clean pool. You can run your filter for a longer period of time each day at a lower speed and still save power.
