Variable Speed Pumps

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As of July 19, 2021, new or replacement pool filter pumps are required to meet new minimum energy standards in compliance with the U.S. Department of Energy. Learn More >


Benefits of Variable Speed Pumps


  • Savings on Energy Bills See how much >
  • Available from 1.4 HP to 4.0 HP for all pool sizes
  • Cleaner pool water by using low speeds for longer periods
  • Replace external timers with advanced on-board time clock and programming features
  • Magnetic motors stay cooler and last longer
  • Available in 230V and 115V power supplies

  • Savings on Energy Bills See how much >
  • Available from 1.4 HP to 4.0 HP for all pool sizes
  • Cleaner pool water by using low speed for longer periods
  • Replace external timers with advanced on-board time clock and programming features
  • Magnetic motors stay cooler and last longer
  • Available in 230V and 115V power supplies

  • Choose a pump sized appropriate to your pool
  • Make sure to select a pump that has a flow rate compatible with your filter and plumbing
  • Pumps are labeled 115V, 115V/230V or 230V. Consider what voltage your current system uses.
  • If you have questions about selecting a pump, call our experts or visit your local Leslie's store for help!

  • Remove any unused or unnecessary equipment from the plumbing system.
  • Use 2" pumping throughout the system when possible
  • Use plumbing and equipment that decrease resistance, such as sweeping elbows, side valves and large cartridge filters.
  • Reduce the number of 90° elbows, small valves or flow-reducing plumbing in the system.
  • Adjust run times for best efficiency by using low speeds 80% of the time and higher speeds for cleaning and heating cycles.

New federal regulations will require new pool pumps manufactured after July 19, 2021 to meet new minimum energy standards. This includes both in-ground and above-ground pumps. The new standards apply to residential and commercial pumps and are not the same for all pumps. Note: Existing installed pumps do not have to meet the new standards.

Dedicated Purpose Pool Pump (DPPP) Efficiency Standards 2021
Description New Designation New Requirements Notes
In-Ground Pump
≥ 1.0 HP
Large Self Priming Filter Pumps
(0.711 - 2.5 HHP)
Must be variable speed motor VSP only technology that can meet requirements
In-Ground Pump
0.5 - 0.75 HP
Large Self Priming Filter Pumps
(< 0.711 HPP)
Highly-efficient single-speed or two-speed motor Majority of existing single-speed pumps sold today will not meet new requirements
Above-Ground Pump Non-Self-Priming Filter Pump Minimum Allowable: Medium-efficient single-speed or two-speed motor Majority of existing single-speed pumps sold today will not meet new requirements
Pressure Cleaner Booster Pump Pressure Cleaner Booster Pump Minimum Allowable: Medium-efficient single-speed motor Majority of existing single-speed pumps sold today will not meet new requirements
Pumps with no minimum performance requirements

All motors will have a Service Factor (SF) of 1.0 and the horsepower (HP) displayed on the pump will be Total Horsepower (THP). Max-rated, up-rated and full-rated pump designations will be eliminated.

IMPORTANT: Pump classifications will no longer be based upon the application. Example: No more in-ground or above-ground. Now Self Priming (In-Ground) or Non-Self Priming (Above-Ground).

New Terms, Definitions and Labeling Requirements

WEF (Weighted Energy Factor): This is a measure of the pump’s energy efficiency (how much water is pumped divided by how much energy it takes), similar to miles per gallon in an automobile. The higher the WEF, the more efficient the pump. Each pump must be labeled with its WEF.

HHP (Hydraulic Horsepower): This is the amount of hydraulic power produced by the pump’s wet-end. This measurement is the pump power output at maximum operating speed and full impeller diameter. HHP is used to size pumps instead of motor horsepower.

THP (Total Horsepower) or SFHP (Service Factor Horsepower): This is the new pump HP rating and is determined by the total HP created at the motor shaft. Each pump must be labeled with its THP.

After July 19, 2021: Once the inventory of existing standard pumps is no longer available, customers will have to purchase a new variable-speed or energy efficient pump that meets the new requirements, regardless if it is used for filtration, water features, negative edge, etc.

Note: At this time, the new standards do not apply to replacement motors. This means a customer can replace a malfunctioning motor without replacing the existing pump.

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