XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed
#1 in Above-GroundFull review
A low-cost, ENERGY STAR variable-speed pump for above-ground pools, for buyers who want the efficiency without paying for a big brand.
Amazon $379.95$379.95
The XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed is the better pool pump overall, rated 4.0 to 2.7. The XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed leads on efficiency and value. The Aquastrong 1.5 HP Dual Speed costs $165.55 less ($214.40 vs $379.95).
Aquastrong 1.5 HP Dual Speed
#8 in Above-GroundFull review
A budget two-speed pump for above-ground pools, for buyers who want a timer and two speeds for the lowest price rather than top efficiency.
Amazon $214.40$214.40
Prices were last checked October 27, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed for efficiency (WEF 12.2, 161% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size vs WEF 3.7, at the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size) and value ($380 for 1.5 HP ($253 per HP) vs $214 for 0.7 HP ($320 per HP)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every above-ground pool pump; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed | Aquastrong 1.5 HP Dual Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.0/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Efficiency 35% | 83 WEF 12.2, 161% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 0 WEF 3.7, at the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size |
| Value 25% | 99 $380 for 1.5 HP ($253 per HP) | 86 $214 for 0.7 HP ($320 per HP) |
| Warranty 15% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 25 2-year warranty |
| Controls 15% | 30 Built-in schedule | 30 Built-in schedule |
| Noise 10% | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed | Aquastrong 1.5 HP Dual Speed | |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency ratings | ||
| Pump type | Above-ground (non-self-priming) | Above-ground (non-self-priming) |
| Motor | Variable speed | Two speed |
| Rated horsepower (DOE) | 1.5 HP | 0.7 HP |
| Hydraulic horsepower (DOE) | 0.4 HP | 0.4 HP |
| Weighted energy factor (WEF) | 12.2 kgal/kWh | 3.7 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 4.7 kgal/kWh | 4.8 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR certified | Yes | No |
| Pump | ||
| Voltage | - | 115 V |
| Speed range | 1,000 to 3,450 rpm | - |
| Pipe size | 1.5 in | 1.5 in |
| Controls | ||
| Built-in schedule | Yes | Yes |
| Freeze protection | No | - |
| Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Warranty and models | ||
| Warranty | - | 2 years |
| Warranty terms | - | 2-year warranty (Amazon listing). |
| Also sold as | Splash / CIPU 72526, NORTHFLO PMP-72526 | - |
| Released | 2026-03 | - |