How to Choose the Right Variable Speed Pump for Your Pool
As energy costs continue to climb and households look for smarter, more efficient ways to manage everyday expenses, upgrading your pool pump is one of the most effective ways to cut down on power bills and improve how your pool runs.
In this article, we’ll break down how variable speed pumps work, how they differ from traditional pumps, what to look for when choosing one for your pool, and how they play a central role in a smart, energy-efficient pool setup.
What Is a Variable Speed Pump?
A variable speed pump (VSP) is a type of pool pump that can adjust how fast it runs depending on what your pool needs. Unlike traditional single-speed pumps that operate at one fixed speed, a variable speed pump gives you the flexibility to control the flow rate.
This means your pump can run slower when you're just filtering water and speed up only when needed, for example, when you're using your pool cleaner or spa jets. The result is a pool that runs efficiently, more quietly, and with overall lower running costs.
Why Pool Owners Are Making the Switch
1. Lower Running Costs
One of the main reasons Australians are upgrading to variable speed pumps is the dramatic reduction in energy use. Single-speed pumps operate at full power all the time. In contrast, a variable speed pump uses less power by operating at lower speeds throughout most of the day.
This flexibility can translate into real savings. For an average backyard pool, switching to a variable speed pump can save more than 80 per cent on electricity costs. Over the life of the pump, this adds up to thousands of dollars in savings, enough to cover the initial cost and then some.
2. Quiet, Peaceful Operation
Variable speed pumps also run much more quietly. In fact, when operating at low speeds, they’re almost silent. This is ideal if your pool is close to living areas, bedrooms, or neighbouring homes. You can run your pump overnight or early in the morning without worrying about noise disruption.
3. Better Water Quality
Slower water circulation allows your pool water to pass more effectively through the filter. This improves filtration and helps reduce cloudy water and the build-up of fine particles. You may also find you need to use fewer chemicals over time, as improved circulation helps maintain more stable water conditions.
4. Longer Equipment Life
By running at lower speeds, variable speed pumps put less stress on your pool system. This helps extend the life of other equipment such as your filter, heater, and chlorinator. It also reduces wear and tear on the pump itself, which can mean fewer breakdowns and longer-lasting performance.
How Variable Speed Pumps Work
At the heart of a variable speed pump is a high-efficiency permanent magnet motor, very similar to those used in electric cars. These motors are paired with a digital controller, allowing the pump to operate at different speeds depending on what’s needed.
For example:
- Low speed for general filtration and circulation.
- Medium speed for heating and running water features.
- High speed for backwashing filters or vacuuming the pool.
This level of control not only saves energy but also allows the entire pool system to run more efficiently. Some pumps even come with programmable timers or can be integrated with smart pool systems, so everything can run on a schedule without you having to think about it.
Choosing the Right Variable Speed Pump for Your Pool
Not all pools are the same, so it’s important to select a pump that’s suited to your specific pool type and setup. Here are a few key factors to consider:
1. Pool Size and Volume
Your pump needs to be powerful enough to circulate all the water in your pool, ideally once every 6 to 8 hours. A small backyard plunge pool won’t require the same size pump as a large family pool with added features.
As a general guide:
- Small pools (under 40,000 litres): 0.5 to 1.0 HP pump
- Medium pools (40,000–80,000 litres): 1.0 to 1.5 HP
- Larger pools (over 80,000 litres): 1.5 HP and above
The benefit of a variable speed pump is that it can run at lower speeds most of the time and only ramp up when necessary, offering flexibility across a wide range of pool sizes.
2. Plumbing and Equipment Considerations
If your pool has long pipe runs, elevated equipment, or multiple features like spa jets, waterfalls or solar heating, you may need a more powerful pump or a model with greater flow control.
It’s also important to make sure your pump works well with other equipment, like:
Many modern VSPs are built to integrate seamlessly with these systems, but it’s always worth confirming compatibility with your local AstralPool professional.
Making Your Pool Smarter, Cleaner and More Efficient
Variable speed pumps are more than just a way to save on energy bills, they’re a smarter way to run your entire pool system. When paired with automation or smart controllers, they can adjust automatically based on the task at hand such as running at a low setting overnight for quiet filtration, increasing flow during the day when the chlorinator is active, or boosting to maximum power when cleaning or using the spa.
This kind of “set and forget” efficiency takes the hassle out of pool ownership and ensures everything runs smoothly, quietly, and with minimal intervention.
Final Thoughts
With energy regulations tightening and more households looking for ways to reduce costs, there’s never been a better time to make the switch. Whether you’re installing a new pool or looking to improve an older system, upgrading to a variable speed pump is one of the best investments you can make.
It offers clear, measurable benefits including, but not limited to, lower electricity costs, quieter pool operation, improved water quality, longer equipment life, and overall smarter, more automated pool control.
If you’re unsure which model is right for your pool, speak with one of our AstralPool experts or find a dealer here. We’re here to help you find a pump that fits your needs, pool type, and budget.