Pool owners take note! New standards for your pool pumps will take effect July 19. On that date, all new and replacement pool pumps are required to be variable speed (or multi-speed).
The Law
We actually wrote about this new law way back in 2019; it was initially passed in 2018, but now we’re finally getting to the point when it takes action.
It stems from a Department of Energy push for minimum efficiency standards. The law was written with input from a number of professionals throughout a number of aspects of the pool industry. The three-year period has allowed the industry, as well as consumers, to prepare themselves for the new standards.
Of course, variable-speed pumps have been on the market for years, and the technology has only improved since 2018. Consumers have a lot to choose from.
For Pool Owners with Single-Speed Pumps
Many people already have variable-speed pumps in their home pools. If that’s you, then congratulations! You’re already up to date with these new regulations.
But if your pool still has a single-speed pump, it’s time to take note.
No, you do not have to have a variable-speed pump in your pool come July 19. The law only applies to new and replacement pumps. So if your single-speed pump is still operating well, technically speaking, you don’t have to do anything at this moment.
Why You Should Upgrade Anyway
Still, you should start shopping for multi-speed pumps ASAP. Here’s why:
Firstly, this new law is going to create an immediate surge in demand for variable-speed pumps. Increased demand will drive up prices and will also affect availability.
Secondly, if you stick with your old single-speed pump and it fails you this summer, you .will. have to replace it with a multi-speed pump. Now you’re facing a big delay.
Thirdly, COVID-19 has affected supply chains everywhere, including the pool industry. While the new law would have affected demand for multi-speed pumps anyway, now that issue has been exacerbated.
This is a Good Thing!
The DoE intends for these sweeping standards to have a large-scale effect on energy consumption in this country. But the small-scale effect is great, too.
Variable-speed pumps are good for YOUR bottom line. They save you money without affecting the health of your pool. Plus, you’ve got a lot of options.
So if you haven’t already, now’s the time to talk to your pool professionals about a variable-speed pump. Don’t delay any further. You’re going to want to get the most out of your pool this summer.
