2021 Regulation Changes and Variable Speed Pool Pump

January 30, 2021

Due to new regulations, enacted July 19, 2021, all pool pump installations must be a variable speed pool pump. All new pool pump installations for in-ground pools, going forward, will have to be a variable speed pump. This change in regulation comes from the Department of Energy as part of a new mandate that focuses on having households and businesses save energy.

What does this mean for you? And what is the difference between a variable speed pump and other pumps?

What is a Variable Speed Pool Pump?

The Original Types of Pumps

There are three types of pool pumps, single-speed, two-speed, and variable. Each type of pump is named based on the number of speed settings they have. The variable speed pool pump will be replacing the more traditional speed pump:

Single-Speed Pumps

A single-speed pump is exactly how it sounds. It runs at one speed. This speed is usually a high one, and to operate at such a high-speed for most of the day makes a single-speed pump very loud and terribly inefficient.

Two-Speed Pumps

A two-speed pump is also straightforward. It can run at two speeds–low and high–with low speed being significantly more efficient than being on high speed at all moments of the day. In comparison to the energy-guzzling single speed, the two-speed pump can save up to 70% in energy costs.

Variable Speed Pool Pump

A variable speed pump doesn’t just provide the binary two-speeds of its predecessor but instead a variety of speeds. Using a permanent magnet motor, any user can dial in the desired flow rate, which means being able to run consistently at slower, more energy-efficient speeds. This energy-saving can save up to 80% on your electric bill. Variable speed pumps have a long list of benefits beyond saving energy:

  • They are much quieter
  • They run cooler
  • Last longer than traditional pumps
  • Digitally controlled
  • And have advanced diagnostics

Variable speed pool pumps are the perfect fit for modern pools.

What Does the Change in Regulation mean for me?

You aren’t being forced to replace your current pump with a variable speed pump. The regulation will only apply when the pump you currently own fails, and you have to buy a new one. Exceptional pool companies, like Clement’s, will be following the regulation and all pool pump installations will be variable speed pool pumps. There are exceptions to the rule, such as only applying to in-ground pools and not waterfall pumps or spa pumps.

Though you don’t have to replace your current pump, you should consider it. Single-speed and two-speed pumps are very inefficient, and a significant cost on your electric bill throughout the year. A variable speed pump is a worthwhile investment that will save you money immediately on your electric bill.

About Clements

In operation for over 15 years, Clements Pool Services has been a proud staple of their local community. Clements has been proudly providing pool services to the pool owners of Leesburg. Misty and her husband Mark, a retired Law Enforcement Officer, created Clements to provide excellent services for all of your pool needs. Clements is the best choice for your pool maintenance and services in, Florida.

Misty Clements

About Misty Clements

Misty Clements is the owner of Clements Pool Services & Remodeling. She and her husband have built Clements Pools to be a leader in the pool industry in the Lake County area. They offer pool service, pool remodeling, pool automation, and more.