Energy efficiency and savings from a variable-speed pump
Why Variable-Speed Pumps Are a Smart Investment | Real-World Energy Savings
Why Jandy iAquaLink is a top choice for pool automation
By Marin Pool Service — Certified Jandy Builder

At Marin Pool Service, we’re out in the field every day—repairing leaks, cleaning filters, and replacing outdated equipment. And when it comes to real-world performance, one upgrade consistently delivers the best results for our customers: switching to a variable-speed pump.
Whether you’re looking to lower your utility bills, reduce noise, or get more life out of your system, a high-efficiency variable-speed pump checks every box.
What Makes Variable-Speed Pumps So Effective?
Old single-speed pumps operate at one high speed—no matter what your pool actually needs. That means they waste energy (and your money) every time they run. Variable-speed pumps, like the Jandy VS FloPro™, change that.
By allowing you to adjust the pump speed to match your pool’s specific needs, you can:
- Cut energy use by 50–80%
- Slash monthly utility costs
- Enjoy quieter operation
- Extend the life of your equipment
According to Fluidra’s industry research, variable-speed pumps are not only more energy-efficient—they’re also the only type of pool pump that meets current U.S. Department of Energy regulations.
Real-World Savings You Can See
Think the savings are just a sales pitch? Jandy’s pump savings calculator shows that most homeowners save hundreds of dollars a year—often over $1,000 in energy costs within the first few years of use.
And PG&E notes that pool filtration can be one of the top energy users in California homes. Their summer energy tips specifically recommend upgrading to a variable-speed pump to keep your energy bill down when demand spikes.
Here’s what we see in the field—and it’s backed by state data:
- ✅ Customers with variable-speed pumps consistently spend less on power.
- ✅ Their pumps run cooler, quieter, and require less maintenance.
- ✅ The systems last longer and help other components—like filters and heaters—work more efficiently too.
In fact, according to the California Energy Commission, replacing a single-speed pool pump with a variable-speed model can save the average California homeowner up to $500 per year in electricity costs alone.
California has also taken steps to make energy efficiency the law. Under Section 1605.3(g)(5) of California’s Appliance Efficiency Regulation (Title 20):
- Pool pump motors made after January 1, 2006, cannot be split-phase or capacitor start-induction run types.
- Motors greater than 0.75 total horsepower must operate at two or more speeds.
- Pumps must include a controller that can run the pump at two speeds (minimum).
- The default circulation speed must be no more than 50% of the motor’s maximum RPM.
- High-speed override can only last one 24-hour cycle before resetting to default.
Note: Pressure cleaner booster pumps, commercial pool pumps, and auxiliary pumps are not subject to these Title 20 requirements.
This isn’t just about saving energy—it’s about staying compliant and making a smart long-term investment in your pool system.
Built for Real Pools. Built for Real Savings.
As a Certified Jandy Builder, we don’t just install pumps—we maintain them season after season. And we’ll be the first to tell you: variable-speed pumps are a no-brainer for long-term value.
If your pump is over 5–7 years old, now’s the time to upgrade. You’ll feel the difference in your wallet—and hear it in how quietly your pool runs.
Let’s Talk Energy Savings
Call Marin Pool Service at 415-892-4000 or visit MarinPoolService.com to schedule a free energy consult. We’ll evaluate your setup and help you choose the right variable-speed pump for your pool.
Built for the Real World. Built for Efficiency.