In-ground pool pumps do a lot more than just circulate water as they also prevent growth of organic material such as bacteria and algae in the swimming pool. Inground pumps also clean the water itself by quickly circulating the water, sending it to the filter and then pushing it to the pool as efficiently as possible. A swimming pool is nice to have, but a properly sized pump is probably the most important thing you’ll buy as a pool owner for sure.
So what are the best pool pumps for inground pools? There are two types of pumps you should consider: Single speed pumps and Variable speed pumps. Variable speed pumps tend to be more expensive than their single speed counterparts but in most cases single speed will do the job. Whatever you choose, when selecting a pump, it is advisable to find one that has the ability to filter all the water in a pool within a period of 3-6 hours as this is the time period most people find is optimal for their inground pools.
There are many different brands and models of in-ground swimming pool pumps on the market today. However, the top two brands in terms of performance and efficiency are Hayward and Pentair Pumps.
Quick Guide to Inground Pool Pumps
Brand | Horsepower | Speed | Price | Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
1.5 HP | Single | $$$ | | |
1.5 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
1 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
1 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
3 HP | Variable | $$$$$ | ||
2 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
1.5 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
1.5 HP | Variable | $$$$ | ||
1 HP | Single | $$ |
**Below, you’ll find our inground pool pump reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Benefits of Hayward and Pentair Inground Pool Pumps
What We Like About Hayward Pumps...
Hayward pool pumps are large capacity, technologically advanced and cost effective. They are the TOTAL PACKAGE when it comes to a pump for your new pool or replacing your older worn out model. Built for in-ground pools and spas of all types and sizes, each unit comes with a large-see through strainer, large debris basket and easy to service, to give you that added convenience. They are designed for safety, efficiency, noise reduction, and high performance.
- CO$T $AVING$: Hayward makes both single speed and variable speed pumps. In terms of cost savings, the Hayward variable speed pumps are known to be far more energy efficient in comparison to other brands of in-ground swimming pool pumps. And because their variable speed pumps use less energy to run, it means less energy consumption for the household and far cheaper electric bills. Finally, Hayward pumps also have automation features that allow you to set timers throughout the day that allow the pump to run at different speeds. Another cost savings feature that makes Hayward one of the top pumps for inground pool owners.
- SAFETY: Hayward pumps come with a Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) that increases the safety of your pool. This feature shuts off automatically once it detects that hair or other body parts have become stuck in the drain preventing serious injury and even death. Along with this important safety feature, Hayward pumps also have automation features that allow you to set timers throughout the day that allow the pump to run at different speeds.
What We Like About Pentair Pumps...
In my view, Hayward makes the best pump on the market, but a close second would be Pentair. Pentair’s variable speed pumps are extremely popular due to their noise reduction, long service life and energy efficiency. Some of Pentair’s core advantages include:
- Pentair pumps are fully compatible with most control systems used in pools and spas.
- Being a variable speed pump, its motor system is more energy efficient compared to single speed pumps that rely on induction motors. As such, its energy savings are more than 90% when compared to the traditional pool pumps.
- One of my pet peeves….the pump is QUIET! Ask anyone who owns a Pentair and they’ll tell you that it runs smooth and quiet like a BMW on a freshly paved road! There’s nothing worse than a loud inefficient pump and Pentair is far from that.
Disadvantages of Hayward and Pentair Pumps
Hayward and Pentair pumps are both designed with the latest and advanced technology an they are known to be among the most advanced in the market today so it’s tough to come up with flaws.
So if I had to come up with one, the main disadvantage is that they tend to be a bit more expensive than other swimming pool pumps. But let me tell you from my own experience that buying cheap no-name pumps from your local pool store are a huge mistake so don’t do what I did and cheap out.
My local store had stacks of replacement pumps in plain old white boxes that had the same HP motor and I thought it would work out fine. Well guess what….it didn’t and a month later I bought the best Hayward I could and it made a HUGE difference. Buy one of these Hayward or Pentair pumps below and I guarantee you won’t make the mistake I did.
Reviews of the Top Inground Pools Pumps
Brand | Horsepower | Speed | Price | Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
1.5 HP | Single | $$$ | | |
1.5 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
1 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
1 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
3 HP | Variable | $$$$$ | ||
2 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
1.5 HP | Single | $$$ | ||
1.5 HP | Variable | $$$$ | ||
1 HP | Single | $$ |
**Below, you’ll find our inground pool pump reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Reviews of the Top 3 Inground Pool Pumps
We researched all inground pumps from the list above and singled out the three best ones on the market today. You cannot go wrong with any of these in our opinion.
#1: Hayward SP2610X15 Super Pump 1.5HP Single Speed
Recognized for performance and reliability, the Hayward SP2610X15 comes with swing away hand knobs that make it easy to remove the strainer cover. You do not require any tools and no loose parts are left unattached. The strainer is see-through, which allows you to eliminate guesswork and see when the basket needs emptying.
The debris basket is oversized, which provides you with extra loading capacity and less maintenance. The motor is a heavy-duty, offering high performance with airflow ventilation for cooler and quieter operation.
It is made from durable and corrosion proof material to ensure longevity with less maintenance. It is easy to install in in-ground swimming pools and spa systems with a stable mounting base to provide extra versatility. It is designed with ease of service in mind to make sure that internal parts can be easily accessed for servicing without disturbing the mounting and pipe connections.
#2: Pentair 340039 SuperFlow 1.5HP Single Speed Pump
If you are looking for a pump that operates quietly and provides lower operating costs, then the Pentair Superflo 340039 is a good choice. It performs with less effort which means less wear and tear and a longer life, which provides a higher return on investment.
With a thick wall, this pump is designed for in-ground pools without any corrosion or other water damages. It features an oversized strainer basket that allows more time between cleanings. It has a powerful motor that provides enough horsepower for moving water more efficiently and at higher quantities.
The lid is see-through which makes inspection easy and fast. Designed with self-priming technology, this pump starts quickly and easily. It has also been tested for pressure and performance to make sure that quality is superior. Designed with more than 50 years of advanced hydraulic engineering, the Pentair Superflo is a top choice.
#3: Hayward SP2607X10 Super Pump 1HP Single Speed
The Hayward SP2607X10 large capacity single horsepower pool pump is designed with corrosion-proof and durable material to ensure to give you extended service. It is dependable, efficient, and proven with all the superior quality features of an in-ground swimming pool pump. Its motor is a heavy duty, powerful enough for high performance while still maintaining a cooler and quite operation when running.
With a see-through strainer cover, you can inspect the basket with ease. You do not have to guess, since you will clearly see when the basket needs to be emptied. The mounting base provides for a stress-free and stable support and an added flexibility for any installation. It comes with additional leaf holding capacity that ensures operation is free flowing at all times.
Bottom Line
What it comes down to is this….if you are going to be putting in a new inground pool pump, do NOT skimp on price. I’ve told this to a lot of fellow pool owners many times and I’ve made the mistake of buying cheap too. Whether you decide to go with the Hayward or decide the Pentair is more to your liking, you cannot go wrong with either one.
I have a liking for Hayward’s products whether it’s sand filters or pumps. I just think that company makes a great product and I’ve had excellent luck with not only their performance but ease of installation and quality of materials. It’s top notch stuff in my opinion.
If you would like more information about a particular pump or have questions, hit me up on our contact page as I always like to help. Thanks for reading!