BLACK+DECKER VS In-Ground 1.5 HP
#18 in In-GroundFull review
A dual-voltage 1.5 HP pump for owners replacing an old single-speed pump themselves, with a long warranty that does not require a dealer.
Amazon $1,049$1,049
The BLACK+DECKER VS In-Ground 1.5 HP is the better pool pump overall, rated 3.2 to 3.0. The BLACK+DECKER VS In-Ground 1.5 HP leads on warranty. The Aquastrong Variable Speed 3 HP costs $409.80 less ($639.20 vs $1,049).
Aquastrong Variable Speed 3 HP
#22 in In-GroundFull review
A low-cost variable-speed pump for DIY owners on a 230 V circuit; buyers counting on a utility rebate should pick an ENERGY STAR model.
Amazon $639.20$639.20
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 BLACK+DECKER VS In-Ground 1.5 HP for warranty (5-year warranty vs 2-year warranty).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every in-ground pool pump; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | BLACK+DECKER VS In-Ground 1.5 HP | Aquastrong Variable Speed 3 HP |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Efficiency 35% | 37 WEF 8.4, 28% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 50 no certified WEF published (neutral score used) |
| Value 25% | 40 $1,049 for 1.5 HP ($699 per HP) | 50 no rated horsepower (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 15% | 100 5-year warranty | 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
| BLACK+DECKER VS In-Ground 1.5 HP | Aquastrong Variable Speed 3 HP | |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency ratings | ||
| Pump type | In-ground (self-priming) | In-ground (self-priming) |
| Motor | Variable speed | Variable speed |
| Rated horsepower (DOE) | 1.5 HP | - |
| Hydraulic horsepower (DOE) | 1 HP | - |
| Weighted energy factor (WEF) | 8.4 kgal/kWh | - |
| ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 6.5 kgal/kWh | - |
| ENERGY STAR certified | Yes | No |
| Pump | ||
| Voltage | 115/230 V | 230 V |
| Speed range | 1,000 to 3,450 rpm | 1,200 to 4,000 rpm |
| Maximum flow | - | 189 gpm |
| Pipe size | 2 in | 2 in |
| Size (W × D × H) | 23.4 × 11.5 × 13.1 in | - |
| Weight | 29 lb | - |
| Controls | ||
| Built-in schedule | Yes | Yes |
| Freeze protection | No | - |
| Wi-Fi | - | No |
| Warranty and models | ||
| Warranty | 5 years | 2 years |
| Warranty terms | 5-year limited warranty from Blue Torrent Pool Products, the same for any buyer (no dealer-install requirement in the manual); service via the Pump Service Center in Seaford, NY. | Two-year warranty with after-sales support (Amazon listing), the same for any buyer. |
| Also sold as | Blue Torrent BTIGV150SP | - |
| Released | 2026-01 | - |