What Are The Best Pool Pumps?
A pool pump is commonly referred to as the heart of the pool system. Advice ought to be sought from a professional before purchasing so that one gets the best fit.
The best pool pumps are those that work efficiently, pumping as much water as is required while also utilizing the least amount of energy possible.
Contents
- 1 How to Choose the Best Pool Pump
- 2 Benefits of Pool Pumps
- 3 Attributes That Differentiate the Different Pool Pumps
- 4 The Top Five Best Pool Pumps
- 4.1 1. Hayward SP1580X15 Power-Flo LX Series 1-1/2-Horsepower Above-Ground Pool Pump with Cord
- 4.2 2. Pentair Sta-Rite P6E6E-206L Max-E-Pro
- 4.3 3. Pentair Sta-Rite N1-1AE HP SuperMax Energy Efficient
- 4.4 4. Harris H1572730 ProForce 1.5 HP Above Ground Pool Pump 115V
- 4.5 5. Hayward SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump Energy Star Certified
- 5 Conclusion
How to Choose the Best Pool Pump
Finding the right pump for your pool can be a very challenging task. Unlike other equipment, the choice of a pump is the most vital because it costs a substantial amount to run throughout their lifetime!
A buyer has to be aware of the requirements before settling on a type of pump. It is a huge investment and one requires to know all the manufacturers’ details before finally making an informed purchase.
Benefits of Pool Pumps
Pool pumps ensure cleanliness in swimming pools by circulating water through filters. They may also pass the water through heaters, cleaners or sweeps, water features or fountains if installed in the filtration system.

The filtration system keeps the water sparkling, pure, and hygienic for bathers by showing debris that falls into the pool and also removing algae and other microorganisms that can pose possible health fears to swimmers.
A point to note is that pools that are not sufficiently filtrated can be a harbor for pathogens that could cause illnesses. This is a health risk.
Such microorganisms are introduced into pool water pool water by rain, wind-borne debris, bathing suits, or poor quality water used when filling.
The disease hazards can be treated with disinfectants or chlorinated but it is expensive and unnecessary. This is why a pump is essential to a household with a swimming pool.
Attributes That Differentiate the Different Pool Pumps
Every manufacturer puts into consideration a number of factors that differentiate their pool pumps. A buyer needs to look out for the warranty of the pump, the packages that come with it, its efficiency, technical details, and ultimately their prices.
Prices
This encompasses the initial, operating, maintenance and repair costs. As much as one would like to a budget-friendly pump, it is advisable to get a pump that will work effectively with the least maintenance possible.
Maintenance costs will include cleaning evaporator coil and checking valves, airflow and water flow, refrigerant pressures, compressor amperage draw and internal electrical connections.
Energy consumption
Saving energy is a brilliant aim. However, it should not happen at the expense of swimming pool hygiene.
Efficiency
One needs to be well versed with every manufacturer’s specifications. The motors used on the pumps are nearly similar. The slight differences come in hydraulics, shape, and color and are not so much a concern.
Warranty and Service
Service means the manufacturer sends a technician to install the pump for you. This could help save a lot in case of pump repair costs. Don’t try to repair your unit by yourself if its solution is covered under the warranty lest it’s void. The manufacturer receives and authorizes claims.
Technical details
There are single speed and variable speed types of pumps. The latter can increase flow rates and is energy saving. Their slower circulation rates reduce chances of leaks or repairs.
Other specifications such as the filter type, horsepower, physical size, basket type, impeller, diffuser, type of heater if need be as well as the compressor.
Best Practices to Using the Pool Pump
A buyer needs to know how a pool pump works before purchasing one so that they are well versed with the practices required for a smooth running. Without this information, there may be a poor operation of the pump, which will cause unnecessary faults and expenses.
Controversies
Contrary to the common knowledge, the size of pool pumps is not entirely directly proportional to the power they produce. Be sure to have all the necessary information before settling for a pump.
Also, there are practices to follow when there is a breakdown in the pool and care should be taken to avoid any electrical faults or worsen the situation.
Prerequisites to Using the Product
Pump manufacturers carry details related to flow rates and head that can help you determine which pool pump you need. It’s also important to keep in mind that these two calculations are not independent of each other.
Your determined/desired flow rate will play a part in determining your head, as many elements within a pool’s plumbing loop offer different levels of head depending on how much water you’re trying to pass through them in any given moment.
The Top Five Best Pool Pumps
Ever pool owner has their own preferences when purchasing pool pumps. This could depend on their requirements or their budget amount. But, in all these, we are certain a buyer will get a pool pump that suits their needs. Here are the top best pool pumps brands you might want to consider:
BUDGET PICK
Harris ProForce



Our Rating
Best Choice
Hayward Power-Flo



Our Rating
Premium PICK
Hayward Max-Flo



Our Rating
1. Hayward SP1580X15 Power-Flo LX Series 1-1/2-Horsepower Above-Ground Pool Pump with Cord



The PowerFlo LX pump series is explicitly designed for the rigidities of above ground and on-ground type swimming pools. Its tough corrosion-proof construction together with advanced attributes makes it a good performer. Its heavy-duty motor provides a way for dependable performance and quiet operation.
The 100% drip proof, heat-resistant, double-sized seal ensures a long motor life, so you don’t need to worry about incurring replacement costs. Its large debris basket minimizes pool maintenance and with its clear cover, you can see how often the basket requires cleaning.
PROS:
CONS:
2. Pentair Sta-Rite P6E6E-206L Max-E-Pro



This single speed full rated pool and spa pump have all the features commanded by today’s pool professionals. It’s built with a quality structure using a hardwearing one-piece pump housing made glass-reinforced composite resin. It has a large transparent lid that makes it easy to inspect for debris.
It has a strong, sturdy, specially designed base that dampens sound and vibration making it one of the quietest pumps. Its self-priming suction lift covers up to 15-feet above the water level. The Max-E-Pro has a new quick-lock trap cover ring and easy-to-install 2-inch ports which incorporate internal and external threads.
Its superior hydraulic design passages larger volumes of water results in lower operating costs. Its impeller is manufactured with Noryl and Viton shaft longer-lasting seal to endure the harshest water environments. Other specifications include 1-horsepower, 16/8-full load amperes, 115/230-Volt, 1.65-SF, 1.65-SFHP. It measures 30*17*13 inches.
PROS:
CONS:
3. Pentair Sta-Rite N1-1AE HP SuperMax Energy Efficient



This new SuperMax pump from Sta-Rite features a sought-after grade, 56 square flange motor which boosts performance in housing swimming pools. The ease of installation and high reliability makes it a better preference.
It has union fittings, which ensure the pump simply drops in place. It requires only a simple quarter turn to lock and unlock the can and ramp lids. The single models range from 1/2 to 2-1/2-horsepower. Its dimensions are 12*5*10 inches.
PROS:
CONS:
4. Harris H1572730 ProForce 1.5 HP Above Ground Pool Pump 115V



This Harris ProForce is a low cost, yet still offers outstanding results. These pumps are made with durable, corrosion-proof materials. The stainless steel motor shaft is made with a steel-clad thermoplastic body for flexibility. It has a strainer, which includes a big, simple-to-clean filter basket.
The transparent, twist and lock lid permits fast inspecting of the strainer. It has a 1.5 HP, 115V, 1.5-inch connection sizes on both suction and discharge ports, 1.5&2.5-inch internal and external threading, respectively, has a convenient drain plug and comes with standard three-prong plug connection on a 3-foot cord. Pump dimensions are 21*11*9 inches.
PROS:
CONS:
5. Hayward SP2303VSP MaxFlo VS Variable-Speed Pool Pump Energy Star Certified



The desired traditional Maxflo pump family has incorporated the variable speed technology in this pool pump. This Maxflo VS is a drop-in advancement that will deliver up to 80% energy cost savings over single Speed pool pumps.
It is available in both 115V and 230V versions and pays for itself faster than larger, more expensive models. Its dimensions are following: 11 x 10 x 24 inches.
PROS:
CONS:
Conclusion
Your ultimate goal is to find a pool pump that works best for you, taking into consideration all the factors discussed above while also ensuring the maximum requirements are met. All the clarification should be sought from a certified pool professional so that the right fit is met.
To choose the perfect pump for your pool, you need to know the flow it will require, how much work it will have to do, its head, or pressure. The pump will have to yield to get that flow to where it’s flowing to. We are hopeful that this article about the best pool pumps was able to help you in one way or another!