Variable Speed Motors - The New Requirement for Pool Owners in 2021

With a motive of energy conservation in mind, the United States Department of Energy (DOE) has made variable speed motors mandatory for many pool applications.  

Effective from July 18, 2021, it would be mandatory for all pumps past a certain horsepower rating to meet an efficiency threshold. Thus, variable speed pumps would be a necessity to power the filtration system of all pools and spas. 

If a pool pump meets the required minimum efficiency standard, only then will it qualify to be sold in the United States. 

Why variable speed pumps? 

If you are wondering why so much emphasis on variable speed motors, here’s why. 

A lot of energy and cost is required to circulate approximately 20,000 gallons of water in an average in-ground pool. This shoots up the cost of electricity bills by around $500 each season. 

As single-speed pool pumps have to operate at high speed all the time for mixing and cleaning, a lot of energy and money is wasted. 

A variable speed pump, on the other hand, reduces energy use by about 70% as it operates at a relatively lower speed when circulating and filtering water. 

What is the threshold? 

Surprisingly, the threshold would not be measured with a traditional motor horsepower but a different system would be used. 

All self-priming filtration pumps that are rated between 0.711 and 2.5 “hydraulic” horsepower (1 to 5 horsepower) will have to meet the performance standards.  

It will be a bit of a learning curve for the whole industry that is acquainted with the conventional labeling system. And, eventually, even pumps with less than 0.711 hydraulic power will have to meet the higher efficiency standards. 

Will all pumps have to comply?  

Not all kinds of pumps will have to comply with these rules. This means that the regulation will have no impact on waterfall pumps as they already meet the high-energy efficiency standards. 

However, pressure-cleaner booster pumps, though allowed to be run with single speed motors, will have to become more energy efficient. 

Though the precise regulation seems non-erroneous, it is not free from loopholes. A significant limitation in the rule that people are pointing at is that there is no mention of the replacement of motors. 

We can help you change your pool motor! 

At Water and Pool Solutions, Inc., we have the ideal solution to all your pool problems. We offer a wide range of services to meet every type of need. Along with replacing your existing pump motor with an energy-efficient variable speed motor, our professionals can provide professional repair services for your swimming pool. If you live in Montgomery, AL, please feel free call us at (334) 264-2700 today for a free request! One of our representatives will get in touch with you shortly.

We promise to provide every service with a smile, and to your highest level of satisfaction.