Pool Pumps
The pool pump is an essential component to any complete pool and spa filtration system. The pump circulates pool or spa water, sending it through the filter, heater, chemical feeder or salt chlorination system then finally back through to the pool or spa via the return lines. Moving water is happy water, so it's important to accurately schedule the pump’s run time to ensure proper water circulation. Doing so can help improve the overall health of the pool and spa water, allowing for more use and enjoyment.
Pool pumps are available in single, dual and variable speed options to accommodate any pool or spa application. Whether looking for a replacement for an existing pump or for a new install, it’s important to keep these pool and spa pump motor speed options in mind.
Single Speed Pumps
Single speed pool and spa pumps are capable of running at 3,450 RPM. This means they run at one continuous full speed the entire time they operate. Single speed pump motors use man-made magnets that slowly lose their polarity over time. This loss in polarity causes the motor to draw more amps, costing you more money in electricity in the long run.
Dual Speed Pumps
Dual speed pool and spa pumps are capable of running at two individual RPM. The high speed is 3,450 RPM and the low speed is half that at 1,725 RPM. There is an advantage of running the motor at a lower RPM as it reduces the amps and kilowatt (kW) usage per hour, lowering costs on your utility bill. This also allows you to run the pool and spa pump for longer durations, promoting healthier water. However, like single speed, dual speed pump motors also use a man-made magnet that slowly loses its polarity throughout the life of the motor. Again, this results in increased expenses in electricity over time to run the pool and spa pump.
Variable Speed Pumps
Variable speed pool pumps are capable of running at a variable RPM between 450 RPM for the lowest speed setting and 3,450 RPM for the highest speed setting. Variable speed pool pumps can provide water circulation to a wide array of pool/spa volumes. Variable speed pump motors use rare earth magnets instead of man-made so the polarity of the magnet does not degrade over time. Being able to program or set the RPM and run schedule not only helps ensure proper water circulation, but also significant energy savings, lowering your electric bill. Variable speed pumps are the quietest and most energy efficient pump option for pool and spa water circulation.
Pool and spa pumps come in medium head and high head versions with either 1.5 inch or 2 inch inlet and discharge ports for plumbing. The best choice for smaller or single bodies of water are medium head pumps. High head pumps are more suited to pool and spa combinations or pools with solar heating panels on the roof, in-floor cleaning pop-up head systems and water features.
Here at Leslie’s, we offer all the most reliable and popular manufacturers and brands such as Jacuzzi, Pentair, Hayward, Waterway, and many more!