Its not just the California regulations, but the DOE's that went into effect in July, 2021 that affect what is available. While CA didn't really worry about above ground pools, the DOE regs do apply to them as well as in-ground pumps. There are still above-ground pumps in 2-speed configuration available online and a pool owner can install one if it can be obtained, there's no inspections, so no enforcement. To be "legal," a timer that will switch to the low speed has always been a requirement. A switch on the back isn't enough. I've heard that many online sellers won't ship anything to CA that doesn't meet DOE and CA requirements. That's where the enforcement comes from.@Texas Splash
I found this on the Leslies web site regarding Title 20 California Code, dated 2022:
The Title 20 California Code of Regulations has governed pool pump purchases and installations in California since 2008. Though these laws are nothing new, as old pool pumps need to be replaced, many California residents may still be left wondering, “What pool pumps can I buy?” Here, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about California Title 20 and how it relates to pool pumps and pump motors.
What does Title 20 say about pool pumps?
Pool filtration pumps and replacement motors purchased and/or installed in California must follow the following basic guidelines:
There is also specific verbiage regarding the motor’s start/run type, label requirements, pump control settings and limitations regarding the date a pump or motor was manufactured. These regulations apply to pool pumps for both inground and above ground residential pools.
- Single speed pumps must have a motor capacity less than 1 THP (total horsepower).
- Pool filter pumps with a motor capacity greater than 1 THP must operate at two or more speeds, such as a dual speed or variable speed pool pump. The low speed rotation rate cannot be more than half of the maximum rotation rate.
This is CA's requirements:
- CEC Title 20 Section 1605.3(g)(5) requires any motor used for residential filter pump applications and manufactured before July 19, 2021 that is greater than or equal to 1.0 THP be replaced with a two-speed or variable speed motor.
- CEC Title 20 1605.3(g)(6) requires any motor used for replacement dedicated-purpose pool pump motor on all residential and commercial applications and manufactured on or after July 19, 2021 that is greater than or equal to 0.5 THP be replaced with a variable speed motor.