The swimming pool is a universal symbol of fun. But behind all the fun of a summer swim should be an efficient pool pump that you can rely on, no matter what.
“When you look at the pool industry post-COVID, we have more swimming pools in the U.S. than we have ever had before,” said Rob Gaither, Sales Manager for Pentair Pool. “This means there is also an influx of new pool owners, which can impose safety risks if they are not properly educated on their pool’s capabilities, functions, and maintenance needs.”
Education is critical, especially with an increased focus on innovative and connected technologies following new regulations by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
According to the DOE, pool pumps can be a home’s second-largest energy consumer. And as a result, new rules require pool pumps to meet minimum efficiency standards in the U.S. Unlike single speed pumps, which run at a single full-capacity speed, only variable speed pumps can adjust speed to keep flow constant. By raising and lowering the speed as needed, instead of keeping the same speed all day, a variable speed pool pump uses less energy. This can result in cost savings for pool owners, improved water flow, and less wear and tear on equipment.
“From a safety standpoint,” said Gaither, “The variable speed pump allows the pool servicer some control to educate and help customers create a safe swimming environment.”
Become the Expert
It’s essential to help customers understand their pool equipment pad and how everything works together.
“Over the past two years, I have trained over 10,000 pool professionals,” said Gaither. “We are counting on them to trickle down that knowledge to pool owners and build trust as industry experts. They value our advice.”
Staying current on the latest technology ensures that pool professionals can provide the highest quality service, support safe pools, and leverage new technologies to benefit their customers. It’s also essential to understand how regulations impact technologies. In November 2023, the DOE enacted an updated rule that includes a series of changes over the next several years, with the first going into effect in September 2025. This first update will require that all dedicated-purpose pool pump motors between 1.15 THP and 5 THP (manufactured on and after September 29, 2025) be variable speed.1
The benefits of variable speed pumps extend beyond meeting upcoming energy requirements, however.
“Moving water is very important for water filtration and quality,” said Adam Key, Product Manager at Pentair Pool. “With variable speed pumps, you can have constant moving water at a slower flow rate. This allows for better water clarity and quality and, thus, fewer issues for pool servicers. All while reducing energy costs for homeowners.”
Variable speed pumps can offer better control over water flow and pressure, leading to improved filtration and cleaner pools. When selecting the right variable speed and flow pump, be sure to look for features that make setting the ideal flow rate easy. For example, the Pentair IntelliFlo3® Variable Speed and Flow Pump includes built-in technology and automation for optimal flow and performance. It automatically adjusts its speed to compensate for filter loading, heating, cleaning, and more. With these innovative technologies, pool professionals can spend less time servicing the pool equipment pad, and pool owners have more time to enjoy their pool while saving energy and money. And the best part? It comes with quieter operation for a more enjoyable poolside experience.
Operate Efficiently with Automation
As the industry continues to evolve and products become more connected, pool professionals are working hard to provide their customers with the tools they need to more easily enjoy their backyard pool. Apps often put control in the palm of pool owners’ hands, and that’s just one way pool ownership is becoming more effortless.
By using an automated pump like the award-winning IntelliFlo3® Variable Speed and Flow Pump, pool owners will enjoy entry-level automation that connects up to two devices, enabling them to control their pool lights and more. As the pumps are easy to install and deliver top-notch performance, pool professionals will also enjoy a natural business growth opportunity with the remote monitoring possibilities these pumps provide.
“Automated variable speed pool pumps can conveniently connect to the homeowner’s Wi-Fi to gain access to applications that benefit both the pool professional and the pool owner,” said Key. “This allows pool servicers to monitor the pump remotely, saving time and fuel by eliminating service trips and addressing common challenges before they arise.”
By offering connected variable speed pool pumps to their customers and setting up remote monitoring in the Pentair Pro app, pool professionals can receive alerts in real-time, a service that can be added to your list of business offerings.
What makes variable speed and flow so notable is its incredible energy efficiency. In fact, with a third-generation IntelliFlo3® Variable Speed and Flow Pump, pool owners can save up to 90%* on energy consumption compared to a single speed pump.
“These pumps allow for easy installation and sync with existing pool automation systems,” said Gaither. “If you have a customer who likes the idea of being able to do more with their pool, whether safe powering of a salt flow generator or changing the pool color lights for their kid’s birthday party, automation is a solution that offers simpler operations more affordably. And it creates more upsell opportunities for pool servicers.”
A Pump for any Pool
A pool pump is the heart of the pool’s filtration system, playing an important role in keeping the water cleaner and clearer.
Pentair Pool offers a variety of pool pumps for pool owners to choose from, including variable speed pool pumps that offer a more effortless pool experience. Designed to take the pool industry to the next level, the IntelliFlo3® Variable Speed and Flow Pump allows pool servicers to conquer their install like a champ. With flexibility to suit any pool size and options for both 1.5 HP and 3.0 HP, these pumps offer entry-level automation and optional touchscreens.
And with new variable speed pumps, pool professionals can feel confident that pools follow the latest DOE regulations, significantly improve their bottom line, grow their business offerings, and strengthen customer loyalty – all while offering pool owners lower electrical bills, cleaner water, and a quieter, more peaceful backyard and a more effortless pool ownership experience.
Interested in taking advantage of Pentair Pool’s educational series? Visit www.pentair.com/pentair-university to learn more.
++
1. Energy Conservation Standards, 10 C.F.R. §431.485 (2023).
*Savings based on variable speed pump compared to a single speed pump running 12 hours per day at an average of $0.16 per kWh in a 20,000-gallon pool. Actual savings may vary based on local utility rates, pool size, pump run time, pump horsepower, pump rpm, plumbing size and length, pump model, service factor and other hydraulic factors. Individual Weighted Energy Factor (WEF) scores and savings may vary by model.
The post The Smart Choice: Here’s Why Your Business Needs Variable Speed Pumps appeared first on PoolMagazine.com – Get The Latest Pool News.
