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 2 HP Dual Speed costs $141.55 less ($238.40 vs $379.95).
Aquastrong 2 HP Dual Speed
#7 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 $238.40$238.40
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 4.9, 2% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size) and value ($380 for 1.5 HP ($253 per HP) vs $238 for 0.8 HP ($318 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 2 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 4.9, 2% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size |
| Value 25% | 99 $380 for 1.5 HP ($253 per HP) | 86 $238 for 0.8 HP ($318 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 2 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 | 0.8 HP |
| Hydraulic horsepower (DOE) | 0.4 HP | 0.4 HP |
| Weighted energy factor (WEF) | 12.2 kgal/kWh | 4.9 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 | - |