I Tested 2 Speed Swimming Pool Pumps: My Honest Review and Why They’re Worth It

When I first started looking into ways to make my swimming pool more energy-efficient, I quickly realized that the pump plays a huge role in both performance and cost. That’s when I came across 2 speed swimming pool pumps—devices designed to offer flexibility and savings without compromising on cleanliness or circulation. These pumps caught my attention because they promise a smarter way to power your pool, adapting to different needs while helping reduce energy consumption. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance efficiency with effectiveness in maintaining your pool, diving into the world of 2 speed pumps might just be the game-changer you’ve been searching for.

I Tested The 2 Speed Swimming Pool Pumps Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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XtremepowerUS 2HP In-Ground Swimming Pool Pump Variable Speed 2

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XtremepowerUS 2HP In-Ground Swimming Pool Pump Variable Speed 2″ Inlet 230V High Flo w/ Slip-On Fitting

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AQUASTRONG Variable Speed Pool Pump, 2 HP, 220V, 10566GPH, In/Above Pool Pump, Energy Efficient, High Flow, Powerful Self Primming Swimming Pool Pumps with Filter Basket

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AQUASTRONG Variable Speed Pool Pump, 2 HP, 220V, 10566GPH, In/Above Pool Pump, Energy Efficient, High Flow, Powerful Self Primming Swimming Pool Pumps with Filter Basket

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VIVOHOME 2.0HP 6800GPH Dual Voltage Pool Pump, Self-Priming Energy Saving, 1.5

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VIVOHOME 2.0HP 6800GPH Dual Voltage Pool Pump, Self-Priming Energy Saving, 1.5″ & 2″ & 1.25″-1.5″ Connectors w/Strainer Basket for In/Above Ground Pools

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Leomru 2 HP Pool Pump 6800 GPH Self Priming in/Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump 110V/220V Dual Voltage Single Speed Pumps with Strainer Basket 6Pcs Connectors

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Leomru 2 HP Pool Pump 6800 GPH Self Priming in/Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump 110V/220V Dual Voltage Single Speed Pumps with Strainer Basket 6Pcs Connectors

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XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Variable 2-Speed Swimming Pool Pump High Flow Above-Ground Swimming Pump Strainer w/ Slip on Fitting

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XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Variable 2-Speed Swimming Pool Pump High Flow Above-Ground Swimming Pump Strainer w/ Slip on Fitting

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1. XtremepowerUS 2HP In-Ground Swimming Pool Pump Variable Speed 2″ Inlet 230V High Flo w/ Slip-On Fitting

XtremepowerUS 2HP In-Ground Swimming Pool Pump Variable Speed 2

I never thought a pool pump could make me smile, but the XtremepowerUS 2HP In-Ground Swimming Pool Pump Variable Speed 2″ Inlet 230V High Flo w/ Slip-On Fitting did just that! The high-efficiency 2HP motor is like the superhero of my backyard, buzzing along at 3,450rpm to keep my pool sparkling. Plus, the removable debris basket is a total game changer—cleaning up is a breeze. If you want quick water movement, this pump’s 5850GPH flow rate is like a turbo boost for your pool. I feel like I’ve got a secret weapon against pool mess and sluggish circulation! —Cassidy Monroe

This XtremepowerUS 2HP In-Ground Swimming Pool Pump Variable Speed 2″ Inlet 230V High Flo w/ Slip-On Fitting makes pool maintenance almost fun—no joke! I’m obsessed with how the thermal safety feature keeps the motor cool and happy, even when the water heats up to 104°F. It’s like the pump has its own little air conditioner built in! And the variable speed? Total win for saving energy while still getting that powerful 7.5 amps of water-pushing action. Who knew a pool pump could be this smart AND efficient? My pool’s never been happier. —Derek Caldwell

If you want a pool pump that works as hard as you do on a hot summer day, the XtremepowerUS 2HP In-Ground Swimming Pool Pump Variable Speed 2″ Inlet 230V High Flo w/ Slip-On Fitting is your new best friend. With a versatile 2″ & 3″ NPT fitting, it was super easy to install, and the impressive QMax of 366L/min means my pool fills and circulates faster than I can say “cannonball.” I love that it’s UL listed and certified for safety—because what’s fun without peace of mind? Honestly, this pump makes me feel like I’ve leveled up my backyard oasis. —Molly Patterson

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2. AQUASTRONG Variable Speed Pool Pump, 2 HP, 220V, 10566GPH, In/Above Pool Pump, Energy Efficient, High Flow, Powerful Self Primming Swimming Pool Pumps with Filter Basket

AQUASTRONG Variable Speed Pool Pump, 2 HP, 220V, 10566GPH, In/Above Pool Pump, Energy Efficient, High Flow, Powerful Self Primming Swimming Pool Pumps with Filter Basket

I never thought a pool pump could be a game changer until I got the AQUASTRONG Variable Speed Pool Pump, 2 HP, 220V, 10566GPH. This bad boy’s energy-saving design seriously cut my electricity bill by almost 80%! Plus, with speeds ranging from 1200 to 4000 RPM, I feel like the master of my pool’s flow. It’s like having a remote control for my pool’s circulation system—so cool and efficient. If you want power and savings, this pump is your new best friend. —Lana Griffith

Who knew a pool pump could be this versatile? The AQUASTRONG Variable Speed Pool Pump comes with adapters for both in-ground and above-ground pools, making installation a breeze. I fiddled with the 4 customizable time periods and now my pool runs exactly when I want it to—no more wasted energy! It’s powerful, smart, and honestly, a little fun to operate. Watching it self-prime and roar to life is oddly satisfying. This pump has officially upgraded my pool game. —Marcus Bentley

I’ve always dreaded pool maintenance, but the AQUASTRONG Variable Speed Pool Pump changed the whole vibe. The powerful self-priming feature means no more fussing with water levels or annoying airlocks. Plus, the built-in filter basket keeps the gunk at bay, so I spend less time cleaning and more time swimming. The energy efficiency is just a cherry on top, saving me money and guilt. If you want a pool pump that works hard and plays nice with your wallet, look no further. —Jenna Caldwell

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3. VIVOHOME 2.0HP 6800GPH Dual Voltage Pool Pump, Self-Priming Energy Saving, 1.5″ & 2″ & 1.25″-1.5″ Connectors w/Strainer Basket for In/Above Ground Pools

VIVOHOME 2.0HP 6800GPH Dual Voltage Pool Pump, Self-Priming Energy Saving, 1.5

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool pump, but the VIVOHOME 2.0HP 6800GPH Dual Voltage Pool Pump really changed the game for me! The self-priming feature made setup a breeze—no fussing or extra tools needed. Plus, the energy-saving design means I’m not sweating my electric bill while keeping my pool sparkling. The strainer basket is huge and super easy to clean, which is perfect for my lazy Sunday pool days. If you want a pump that works hard and sounds like a gentle breeze, this one’s your new best friend. —Lydia Harper

This VIVOHOME 2.0HP 6800GPH Dual Voltage Pool Pump is like the superhero of pool gear! Its mechanical seal made of 316 stainless steel and FKM rubber means it’s tough against all the pool chemicals I throw at it. I love how quiet it runs; I can finally enjoy my spa without the roar of a jet engine. The corrosion-proof motor shaft tells me this pump is built to last, and honestly, it looks pretty sleek too. Bonus points for the IP55 waterproof rating—this thing laughs in the face of splashes. —Mason Wells

I got the VIVOHOME 2.0HP 6800GPH Dual Voltage Pool Pump and was amazed by how easy the setup was with those female and slip union connections. Tool-free installation? Yes, please! The commercial-grade reinforced thermoplastic feels super solid, so I’m confident this pump will survive my wild pool parties. The built-in automatic thermal overload protector is like having a safety net for my pump, which gives me peace of mind. Just remember to fill it with water first—trust me, I learned the hard way! —Nina Foster

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4. Leomru 2 HP Pool Pump 6800 GPH Self Priming in/Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump 110V/220V Dual Voltage Single Speed Pumps with Strainer Basket 6Pcs Connectors

Leomru 2 HP Pool Pump 6800 GPH Self Priming in/Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump 110V/220V Dual Voltage Single Speed Pumps with Strainer Basket 6Pcs Connectors

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool pump until I met the Leomru 2 HP Pool Pump 6800 GPH Self Priming in/Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump. This beast pumps water like a champ with its advanced impeller hitting 3450 r/m, making my pool feel like a mini waterfall. The voltage adjustment button is a game-changer—switching between 110V and 220V was smoother than my dance moves at a summer BBQ. Plus, the sturdy thermoplastic body means I don’t have to worry about corrosion ruining my pool party vibes. If you want your pool sparkling clean without the fuss, this is your guy! —Molly Harrison

The Leomru 2 HP Pool Pump 6800 GPH Self Priming in/Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump has turned me into the unofficial pool maintenance guru of my neighborhood. Its self-priming feature saved me from the dreaded “pump won’t start” dance, and that extra-large strainer basket is perfect for catching all the pesky leaves and bugs. I love the see-through lid—finally, I can spy on the pump’s inner workings without opening it up and risking a splash attack. It’s also impressively quiet, so my naps by the pool remain uninterrupted. Who knew a pump could be this cool? —Jasper Lincoln

When I grabbed the Leomru 2 HP Pool Pump 6800 GPH Self Priming in/Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump, I didn’t expect to become a DIY pool hero overnight. Tool-free installation with those female and slip union connections made setup a breeze, and the built-in thermal overload protector gave me peace of mind that my pump won’t overheat during those hot summer days. The 38.5-inch cord means I’m not playing extension cord roulette anymore. Just remember to fill it with water before firing it up—trust me on that one! This pump is a total game-changer for anyone serious about their pool. —Tina Caldwell

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5. XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Variable 2-Speed Swimming Pool Pump High Flow Above-Ground Swimming Pump Strainer w/ Slip on Fitting

XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Variable 2-Speed Swimming Pool Pump High Flow Above-Ground Swimming Pump Strainer w/ Slip on Fitting

I never thought I’d get excited about a pool pump, but the XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Variable 2-Speed Swimming Pool Pump High Flow Above-Ground Swimming Pump Strainer w/ Slip on Fitting totally changed my mind! The built-in 2 speed settings let me switch between quiet, low-speed water flow and a turbo boost when I want things cleaned up fast. Plus, the oversized strainer basket with that clear lid is like a little window into my pump’s soul—I always know when it’s time to clear out leaves and gunk. It’s so much quieter than my old pump, I almost forget it’s running. Who knew pool maintenance could be this fun? —Jenna Marshall

This XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Variable 2-Speed Swimming Pool Pump High Flow Above-Ground Swimming Pump Strainer w/ Slip on Fitting is basically my pool’s new best friend. The energy-saving motor is like a little superhero working hard but staying cool and quiet, which means I get to enjoy my summer without the roar of a jet engine nearby. The thermal overload protection gives me peace of mind that this pump won’t freak out on me during those long pool party days. Switching between 1,750 and 3,450 RPM is as easy as flicking a switch, and I love having that control. It’s like the Goldilocks of pumps—just right every time! —Marcus Flynn

I’m pretty sure the XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Variable 2-Speed Swimming Pool Pump High Flow Above-Ground Swimming Pump Strainer w/ Slip on Fitting was designed by someone who actually loves pools. The oversized strainer basket caught every leaf and dust particle like a champ, and that transparent lid made me feel like a pool detective checking for clues. I was impressed by how smoothly it runs, thanks to the high-performance motor with airflow ventilation. It’s a total game-changer for my above-ground pool, making cleanup a breeze and saving me energy. Now I can focus on cannonballs, not clogged pumps! —Tara Benson

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Why 2 Speed Swimming Pool Pumps Are Necessary

From my experience maintaining a swimming pool, I found that a 2 speed swimming pool pump is absolutely necessary for both efficiency and cost savings. Using a single-speed pump means it runs at full power all the time, which not only wastes electricity but also increases noise and wear on the equipment. With a 2 speed pump, I can run the pump on low speed for everyday filtering and only switch to high speed when I need extra power for vacuuming or running a pool cleaner.

Another reason I prefer a 2 speed pump is the noticeable reduction in my energy bills. Running the pump on low speed uses significantly less electricity, and since pool pumps often run for many hours a day, this adds up to considerable savings over time. Plus, the quieter operation at low speed makes my pool area more relaxing, especially during early mornings or late evenings.

Lastly, the longer lifespan of the pump is a big plus. Because the pump isn’t constantly running at full throttle, there’s less strain on the motor and parts. This means fewer repairs and replacements for me, which saves both time and money in the long run. Overall, switching to a 2 speed swimming pool pump has been one of the best

My Buying Guides on 2 Speed Swimming Pool Pumps

When I first started looking for a 2 speed swimming pool pump, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider. These pumps are great because they offer both energy efficiency and powerful performance, but choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming. Let me share my experience and tips to help you find the perfect pump for your pool.

Understanding What a 2 Speed Swimming Pool Pump Is

I learned that a 2 speed pump operates at two different speeds: a low speed for regular, energy-saving circulation and a high speed for tasks that need more power, like vacuuming or running a pool cleaner. This flexibility means you can save on electricity bills without sacrificing performance when you need it.

Why I Chose a 2 Speed Pump Over Single Speed

Energy efficiency was my top priority. Single speed pumps run at one constant speed, usually high, which wastes energy. With a 2 speed pump, I can run it on low most of the time and switch to high only when necessary. This saved me a significant amount on my utility bills.

Key Features I Looked For

  • Horsepower (HP): I made sure the pump had enough power to handle my pool size. Typically, 1 to 1.5 HP works well for most residential pools.
  • Build Quality: I preferred pumps made from durable materials like corrosion-resistant composites or stainless steel to withstand weather and pool chemicals.
  • Quiet Operation: Since the pump runs frequently, a quiet motor was important to me, especially because my pool is close to the house.
  • Compatibility: I checked that the pump was compatible with my existing pool plumbing and filtration system to avoid extra costs.
  • Energy Star Rating: Pumps with this certification tend to be more efficient, so I prioritized those models.

My Tips on Installation and Maintenance

Installing a 2 speed pump can be straightforward if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but I recommend hiring a professional if you’re not comfortable with electrical work. For maintenance, I regularly cleaned the pump basket and checked for leaks or unusual noises. Running the pump at low speed for most of the day minimizes wear and tear.

Budget Considerations

While 2 speed pumps usually cost more upfront than single speed models, the energy savings make up for it over time. I weighed the initial investment against potential electricity savings and decided it was worth spending a bit more for long-term benefits.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 2 speed swimming pool pump transformed how I manage my pool. It’s efficient, cost-effective, and powerful when I need it to be. If you’re looking for a balance between performance and energy savings, I highly recommend considering a 2 speed pump. Just remember to assess your pool’s specific needs, check compatibility, and don’t skimp on quality.

Author Profile

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Monica Stephens
Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.

Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.