Variable speed pump

[bobsfavorite]

Hello all,
New to the forum with a question. What advantages are there in having a variable speed over a fixed speed pump? Other than more speeds, how does this help in pool maintenance? Thanks.

Bobsfavorite

 

[jblizzle]

Welcome to TFP!!!

The lower the pump speed, low less electricity required to run it ... at it is not linear.
For example, on a 2-speed pump (not usually called a VS), the low speed is 1/2 the RPM and move 1/2 the water, but only uses 1/4 the amount of power. So there is a cost savings by running at the lowest speed possible that still provides enough flow rate for your needs.

If you power costs are not very high, then a 2-speed pump is a better option due to the lower upfront cost. A more expensive VS pump may not ever save more in power over a 2-speed pump to offset the higher upfront cost.

Of course, the VS lets you dial in the speed to give you the flow you want. Which can be good if you have a single pump that is used for circulation and water features and a spa ... you could dial in the strength of the spa jets and the flow through a waterfall, etc.