DIY Tips

GET THE BEST PUMP FOR YOUR POOL WITH SWIMART’S PRODUCT GUIDE

10 February 2022

Which speed pool pump is right for you?

The pump is the heart of your pool’s filtration system, keeping water clear and sparkling clean.

Whether you’re after a pump for a new pool, or a replacement pump for an existing pool, Swimart has a high-quality range of models to choose from. Incorporating the latest technology to deliver the right combination of performance and energy savings, they're engineered to the highest standards.

There are four types of domestic pool pumps on the market – fixed, dual, multiple and variable – which operate at different speeds and use corresponding amounts of electricity.

Single speed pumps are typically made with an induction style electric motor and only operate at one speed (full horsepower) whenever you turn it on

Dual speed pumps feature an induction style electric motor and are capable of either low or high-speed operation. We do not have this in our range

Multiple speed pumps are made with an induction style electric motor but operate at a number of different fixed speeds

Variable speed pumps are typically made with permanent electric magnet motors enabling you to control the speed, whether low or high, or anywhere in between. The advanced technology in the motor allows it to run at the same speed as a fixed pump using less electricity.

Energy-efficient variable speed pool pumps growing in popularity

Pumps don’t need to run at full speed 24-7 to keep the water clean. In fact, when it is filtering water, a pump can run at a much lower speed than when it’s doing more demanding jobs, like powering a pool cleaner or water feature.

Reducing your energy bills and maintaining a clean and healthy swimming pool doesn't have to be mutually exclusive – not when you invest in an energy efficient, Eco pool pump.

Unlike fixed pumps that are limited to one set high flow rate speed, variable models can be adjusted to a slower speed for everyday operation. The slower the pump operates, the less amount of energy used to power it and better filtration By allowing the water to turned over at lower speed the filter media has more contact allowing for improved filtration of the water.

For example, Hydrostorm ECO-V’s three speed (this is a variable speed the supatuff is the multi speed) options cater for most pool functions, including:

  1. High speed for vacuuming and backwash 1 per cent of the time
  2. Medium speed for automatic pool cleaners
  3. Low speed for filtration 99 per cent of the time

Lowering a pump’s flow rate not only significantly decreases the pump’s energy requirements, but also reduces water flow resistance in your pool equipment and plumbing. A slow flow rate also has the added benefit of improving your pool’s filtration efficiency, which enhances the clarity of your pool water.

The Hydrostorm ECO-V150 also has a variable speed motor that allows you to set the pump at a low, energy saving flow rate for every day filtration. The pump uses more than 80 per cent less electricity than a regular pool pump, earning it an 8 star energy rating.

And unlike single speed pumps that can’t be used at night because of their high noise levels, the Hydrostorm ECO-V 150 is one of the quietest pumps on the market, operating at just 55 decibels. This means it can be operated during the evening, so you can take advantage of cost-effective, off peak electricity tariff periods – without upsetting the neighbours.

Read more about energy saving variable speed pumps here.

Although variable speed pumps are the more environmentally friendly and energy efficient choice out of the two types, there are still options within the fixed speed pumps that have features which help reduce the impact the device has on the environment, not to mention your next electricity bill.

For example, Lacron's Grange pump has efficient hydraulic performance that shortens the time the pump needs to run, decreasing the amount of energy used.

Other ways to save energy with a fixed speed pump include using pump timers to ensure the pump doesn’t run longer than it needs to and reducing the number of hours you run it during cooler months.

Swimart offers a range of high-quality pool pumps that are engineered to last. For expert advice on the right model for your needs, consult your local Swimart professional.

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