Best Pool Pumps
Madimack Inverter Plus Pool Pump
40kl Peeblecrete Pool, 25in Sand Filter, Eviroswim Sanitation, Onga LTP1100 pump. Purchased my new Madimack Inverter Plus 1.1kW, plugged it in… Read more
(super simple) and the effect is immediate. No more hard Pump Starts, Noise reduced dramatically, Power Saving immediate. My Onga LTP1100 normally runs at 2900rpm using about 1kwh in the process. The Frequecy Inverter allows you to step down in 50rpm steps to reach the where the Filtration System can run normally with no detrimental effect. My step down limit where everything runs normally, including the Rebel Pool Cleaner is 2200rpm. This uses about 480wh which is half the power usage. At switch on it still winds up to 2900rpm to get the water flowing and then steps down to 2200rpm for my normal daytime running preset. What a fantastic device. These Frequency Inverters are a no brainer for everyday pool pump use. Do yourself and your budget a favour and get one.
Madimack InverFLOW Inverter Pool Pump
Looks Great, Super Quiet, the best running costs, with the best warranty to be found! – Seeing this pump for my pool wont have a day off i needed one that is the quietest, with the best star rating and the Madimack comes with a 4 year… Read more
warranty. I love tech so found the app easy and very convenient to know what's going on or adjust anything. Very Happy!
Zodiac FloPro E3 Series
A Hayward pump stopped after 4 years due to motherboard problem (apparently a common thing with Hayward). Removing the the board took five minutes… Read more
but Hayward won't sell replacements for this cheap item - hopeless service. So bought a Zodiak E3. Volume of the pump is rated low but it has a high pitched whine that the Hayward did not have. Can now hear the motor half way down the yard at low speed. I'd replace it if it wasn't so expensive to buy another. It may not bother others but our pump is near our verandah and the whine is very annoying.
Onga Starite SilentFlo SF-750
Great pump but seal only lasted 4 1/2 years on very light duty. Show details
Onga SuperFlo VS 800
Good pump but annoying high pitched noise – Good pump so far but it makes a high pitched sound which is annoying. This was from new as soon as it was started. Coming from the motor.
AstralPool Viron XT Series
Did NOT work for me. Pool builder's choice of equipment. Electronic panel board FAILED 3 weeks shy of 3yrs warranty... still "NOT HAPPY JAN"! Then… Read more
takes another 5-10days to schedule a technician. Hello? This is the main pool pump and is still in the swimming season (summer!).
Poolrite Gemini Pool Pump
Gemini Twin Eco Poolrite Pump – Much better with new one from poolrite just had small leak from bottom fixed which cost $200 with new mechanical seal and impellor after 5 years pool use. Over all great pump with big energy savings and can recommend now. Show details
Very reliable, never skips a beat – A friend has a Neptune pump and they've always been happy with it so when it was time for me to update my pump, I got one too. I've had my Neptune… Read more
pump for over 12 months so far and thought it's a fair amount of time to monitor it before giving it a review. And it works like a charm. It fitted straight onto my existing pool set-up so I was happy I didn't need to muck around with trying to make it fit. I've never had issues with debris getting into the pump as I use a skimmer sock (always having kids in the pool means a lot of debris, dirt and small rocks end up in the pool & it hasn't been a problem ever). Would definitely recommend this product.
Zodiac FloPro VS 1.5HP Pump
Moust reliable filter pump and robust – Known for its excellent quality, long lifespan, sturdy construction, and seamless compatibility with automation systems like the Aqualink Tri FCC. It's an ideal choice for hassle-free automation. Show details
Excellent pump and a great direct upgrade from the old Astral – We had to stop the services of our pool guy because of all the recent cost of living issues over 12 months ago and I have had to take on the task of… Read more
being the pool guy which is definitely not in my wheelhouse. It was pretty much all setup to just have to do the cleaning. Disaster struck about 12 months ago when the old pump that was there died. It was probably 20 plus years old so it did its duty.
But I had no idea what the hell to do to replace it and sure as hell didn't want to muck around with the spaghetti like piping setup we had and cut and rejoin pipes so I looked online if there was something that would just drop in that I could do to also save some money.
Luckily I found the pump in question here and the team at Mr Pool Man. Really quick service, really good advice and when it came it literally just connected directly to the pipes that were there and away it went.
I did have an issue with it recently, but the team at Mr Pool Man helped me sort it out quickly. Wasn't an issue with the pump, when vacuuming up the litter on the bottom of the pool I must have sucked up a bunch of the stupid seed balls that the palm tree drops (anyone know someone who can cut down and remove some palms?). Funnily enough if I had used the filter basket socks they gave me for free with the purchase of the pump, this wouldn't have happened. So, needless to say, I put one on the moment I got it working again.
One of the best things about this pump is even though it pumps more water at a higher RPM than the old one, it is 10x quieter. Highly recommend
Details of the pump from the website. * Engineered with high quality stainless steel bearings & a heavy duty vitton mechanical seal * 100% copper wound, variable speed, totally enclosed fan-cooled motor * High flow ports with screw on unions to suit 50mm Inner diameter, 60mm outer diameter pipe * Ergonomic cam-lock clear lid with easy to open handles * Full variable speed to enable custom energy efficiency based on application * Whisper quiet at normal operation at 60dBa, and ultra quiet on low speed * Impact resistant, anti-corrosive, UV resistant ABS housing that is built to last * Sleek elevated design to avoid moisture ingress * One touch interface controller for easy speed setting changes Max flow rate 475 L/min @ 3450 RPM Low flow rate 55L/min @ 450 RPM 240 Volts, 50Hz single phase 10amp Australian lead to connect directly into power IPX4 Water and weather rated
AstralPool CTX Series
Just out of warranty – Pool built by Blue Haven. Finished in Sept 2020. Astral CTX280 now very noisy. Very poor quality when it only lasts until the end of warranty. Was quoted $750.00 for a new one. Show details
Waterco Supatuf 100 Pool Pump
Pump fails after about 2 years. Just after warranty expires. This the the second one that has failed. I wish I had checked reviews before buying it. Show details
Baracuda Supra Eco
I just installed a Barracuda Supra Eco VS model number WP000210 and it works great manually, i.e. you have to manually select your low speed (Med or… Read more
Eco) and when it re-starts at the next schedule it will run at the speed it shuts off with (after priming at the highest speed at turn on). It is unlike other variable brands that can be programmed to run, for example, 2 hours at high speed, 4 hours at medium speed and 8 hours at Eco (low) speed automatically during the day. A price tag of over $1000 Australian dollars is just plain ridiculous and not justifiable for a pump that you have to manually press buttons to select your variable speeds. Pumps should be a hardware that you set it and forget it not standing around to press buttons for it to change speed. Barracuda, please make your top variable speed pump be programmable - set and forget...
AstralPool XP Series
Waterco Hydrostorm ECO-V 100 Pump
Baracuda Supra Eco3 Multi-Speed Pump
Zodiac FloPro SS Pump Series
Baracuda Hydra+ Pump Series
AstralPool E-Series Pump
Zodiac Titan ZTS Series
A DuD – Motor shorted out after water leak Only two years old still within the three year warranty but Davey classed The seals as consumables and won’t fix it Show details
- See all
Our Hayward 17kw pool heat pump stopped working after about 18 months. After two visits by an approved technician, it was discovered that a gecko had… Read more
crawled in under the power controller causing a short-circuit of some sort resulting in the unit to stop working. After 5 months, a replacement power controller was installed under warranty only for it to fail within a week. On inspection, it was discovered that another gecko had crawled in under the same power controller causing the issue. I can kick myself for not assuming that it might happen again and looking to avoid something similar from happening but assumed it was a rare event the first time round.
Hayward refused to replace the power controller under warranty again and provided me with a quote of just under $500. I have raised this with their NSW customer service manager, Simon Gamack, indicating that it is a design flaw and unless the power controller is modified, the same issue might happen again or with other customers. They are not interested.
Pentair Onga LeisureTime LTP750
My second LTP750 just bit the dust with high pitched squeal. Both lasted less than 2 years. First Pump replaced under warranty....no warranty offered… Read more
from pool shop on second replacement pump ( way to go standing by your product/customer ) Pump only run 5 hours a day. Pump not run dry. I'd expect at least 10 years from a lightly used pool pump, like I got from my old Hurlcon pumps.
Hy-Clor 1.0HP Pool Pump
Noisy pump – Purchased from Bunning and the price was good. It works well. The downside is the noise, it is very noisy compared to any of the pumps we have used… Read more
previously. As we have had to make major changes to the plumbing of the filtration system to fit this pump, it makes it a difficult decision to return the pump for a refund. Fir now we will put up with it!
How do pool pumps work?
Pool pumps are an integral part of keeping a pool clean. The pool pump pulls water from the pool drain or pool deck skimmer and puts this water through a filter. If the pool pump has a heater or chlorinator fitted, then it will pump the water through both of these - resulting in heated, treated water - before returning the water back to the pool.
What are the different types of pool pumps?
Pool pumps are often categorised by their speeds: they’re available in single speed, dual, multi and variable speed models.
- Single speed pool pumps only work at one speed.
- Dual speed pool pumps can operate at two different speeds.
- Multi-speed pool pumps can run at a few fixed speeds.
- Variable speed pool pumps let you program different speeds and flow settings, so you can select what’s most suitable for your pool.
Variable speed pumps are considered the most effective at cleaning your pool and conserving energy while doing so, so here are some pros and cons of variable speed pool pumps.
What size pump do I need for my pool?
Using a bigger pump that’s needed won’t only incur more power consumption expenses, but will also overpower your filter system, which can result in damage or more wear and tear than usual. Using a pump that’s too small can leave your pool prone to algae infestation, as it won’t have the ability to properly filter all your pool water.
Here is how to calculate what size pump you need.
1. Calculate the volume of your pool.
Calculate the volume of your pool in litres by multiplying the length by the width by the average depth.
For example, length 10m x width 4m x average depth 1.2m = 48,000L.
2. Calculate your pool’s flow rate.
The flow rate determines how quickly the pump can circulate water. This is measured in litres per minute (lmp). This is important in determining whether a pool pump is suitable for the size of your pool.
You can calculate this using the pool’s volume and turnover time.
For example, if you have a 48,000L pool and a pump with a turnover time of 4 hours, you can calculate the flow rate of your pump.
Flow rate = volume 48,000L divided by turnover time (240 minutes) = 200L per minute.
3. Calculate the Total Dynamic Head (TDH)
The Total Dynamic Head is a measure of the resistance the pump faces when sucking water from your pool.
The formula for TDH is TDH = pipe head loss + fittings head loss + elevation head loss.
With the flow rate and Total Dynamic Head, you’ll be able to check with a manufacturer which pool pump size you need. Often pool pump retailers can do all the math for you, as long as you have the necessary measurements on hand.
Other things to consider when choosing a pool pump
Power
When it comes to pool pumps, more powerful doesn’t necessarily mean better. It’s recommended to choose a pump that’s powerful enough to clean and circulate the water in your pool, but you have to consider your filter’s maximum flow rate first. If you get too powerful a pump that exceeds this maximum flow rate, you run the risk of damaging your pool equipment. The maximum flow rate is displayed in litres per minute.
Noise level
It’s a good idea to buy a pool pump that’s quiet to run so you can take advantage of cheaper running costs during off-peak hours - your neighbours will thank you for it, too.
Read reviews of the pump or read the specs to figure out the noise level - even better if the noise level is listed in decibels.
Energy efficiency
Running a pool pump can make up a sizable portion of your energy bill, and it’ll take up even more if you don’t factor in energy efficiency before taking out your wallet.
The amount of energy a pool pump uses is determined by a range of factors, including the size of your pool, the type of filter you use, whether you have a heater or chlorinator, the efficiency of the pump itself, and more
The Australian government now has energy performance standards and labelling regulations for pool pumps, which means you can check the energy rating of a pool pump and calculate its estimated power consumption. You can do this by visiting the Australian government’s Energy Rating Calculator online.
Features
- Timer: Also called a pool controller, a pool pump timer lets you choose when to run your pool pump, so you don’t have to manually switch it on and off every day.
- Auto shut-off: This safety feature automatically turns off the pool pump if it overheats.
Cleaning and maintenance
Maintaining a pool pump to keep it in its best condition requires attention all year round. Ensure you repair sources of leaks from seals or pipe joints straight away. You should also make sure the bearings are lubricated to prevent the motor from overheating. Dust or brush build up from vents and use a damp cloth to wipe the surfaces, taking care to avoid direct moisture on the motor.
How long should a pool pump last?
The lifespan of a pool pump depends on factors like the size of your pool and what type of pool pump it is, such as whether it’s an above-ground pump or an in-ground pump. Generally speaking, a pool pump won’t last more than 10 to 15 years.
The following things may indicate that your pool pump needs to be repaired or replaced:
- Dirty pool water. A decrease in the quality of pool water may indicate a faulty pump, chlorinator or filter. You can test the water with a testing kit to determine whether the pump needs replacing, or whether your pool just needs chlorine or other chemicals to get back to normal.
- Damage. If there’s a crack or serious wear and tear on your pump, it will either need to be repaired or replaced.
Build quality
Look for pumps made from corrosion-resistant materials, as this will help them withstand damage from chemicals used in your pool. A sturdy construction also helps ensure a pump will stand the test of time, although this can be hard to determine before you buy, so it’s important to read reviews and see what others have had to say.
Cost
The cost of pool pumps vary, with some budget pumps costing as little as $200 and higher end models going well into the thousands. Ensure you also consider warranty; many reputable brands will have at least a 5-year warranty on their pool pumps.
I am sorry to hear that you’ve had this experience with… Read more (+3 replies)