Your pool pump is likely the second-biggest power user in your home after hot water. If it's a single-speed pump more than a few years old, it's probably costing you $600–$900 a year to run. Here's why the new variable speed models change that maths completely.
The physics that saves you money
Pumps follow a simple rule: halve the speed, and power use drops to roughly one-eighth. A single-speed pump runs flat-out all day, every day — even though filtration only needs gentle flow. A variable speed pump does the same job at low RPM for most of the day, only ramping up for backwashing or water features.
The maths on a typical bayside pool
- Old single-speed pump: ~1.5kW × 8 hours/day ≈ $900+/year at current tariffs.
- Variable speed at low RPM: ~150–300W for most of the day ≈ $150–$250/year.
- Typical saving: $600+ per year — meaning a quality VS pump often pays for itself in around two years, then keeps saving.
Bonus: low-speed running is dramatically quieter. Most customers tell us the silence is worth as much as the savings — no more pump droning through Sunday breakfast.
What we'd recommend in 2026
AstralPool Viron XT (P320 / P520)
Our most-installed VS pump. Full speed control from 600–3600 RPM, Bluetooth setup, Climate Care certified, and whisper quiet. The P320 suits most residential pools; the P520 for larger pools or water features.
Hayward TriStar NG VSTD
Hayward's new-generation model with a clever trick: start with simple Bluetooth controls now, then upgrade to a touchscreen or full Omni automation later without replacing the pump.
Is your pool suitable?
Almost every pool is. The main checks are plumbing size, whether you run a suction cleaner (they need a higher-speed window), and solar heating (needs its own flow settings). We size and program every pump we install, so it saves money from day one — bring in your pool details or book a visit and we'll quote it properly.
