BLACK+DECKER VS Above-Ground 1.5 HP
#1 in Above-GroundFull review
A Wi-Fi variable-speed pump for above-ground pools, for owners who want app scheduling and a long warranty.
Amazon $650$650
The BLACK+DECKER VS Above-Ground 1.5 HP is the better pool pump overall, rated 3.8 to 2.3. The BLACK+DECKER VS Above-Ground 1.5 HP leads on efficiency, warranty and controls. The Hayward PowerFlo Matrix 2-Speed costs $21 less ($629 vs $650).
Hayward PowerFlo Matrix 2-Speed
#9 in Above-GroundFull review
A simple two-speed upgrade for above-ground pools from a major brand, best for owners who want a familiar pump and will switch speeds themselves.
Amazon $629$629
Prices were last checked November 2, 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 Above-Ground 1.5 HP for efficiency (WEF 10.2, 114% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size vs WEF 5.7, 28% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size), warranty (5-year warranty vs 2-year warranty) and controls (Built-in schedule, built-in wi-fi vs No schedule, wi-fi or automation link).
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 | BLACK+DECKER VS Above-Ground 1.5 HP | Hayward PowerFlo Matrix 2-Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 2.3/5 |
| Efficiency 35% | 55 WEF 10.2, 114% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 5 WEF 5.7, 28% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size |
| Value 25% | 68 $650 for 1.5 HP ($433 per HP) | 46 $629 for 1 HP ($629 per HP) |
| Warranty 15% | 100 5-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
| Controls 15% | 65 Built-in schedule, built-in wi-fi | 0 No schedule, wi-fi or automation link |
| Noise 10% | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| BLACK+DECKER VS Above-Ground 1.5 HP | Hayward PowerFlo Matrix 2-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 | 1 HP |
| Hydraulic horsepower (DOE) | 0.4 HP | 0.5 HP |
| Weighted energy factor (WEF) | 10.2 kgal/kWh | 5.7 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 4.8 kgal/kWh | 4.5 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR certified | Yes | No |
| Pump | ||
| Voltage | 115/230 V | 115 V |
| Speed range | 1,000 to 3,450 rpm | - |
| Pipe size | 1.5 in | 1.5 in |
| Size (W × D × H) | 22.6 × 9.8 × 11 in | - |
| Controls | ||
| Built-in schedule | Yes | No |
| Freeze protection | No | No |
| Wi-Fi | Built in | No |
| App | Black+Decker | - |
| Warranty and models | ||
| Warranty | 5 years | 2 years |
| Warranty terms | 5-year limited warranty from Blue Torrent Pool Products (the licensee), served through its pump service center or the retailer. | Hayward 2026 Expert Line above-ground terms: 2 years parts (3 years extended), no labor. The W3 (Open Line) version sold online gets 1 year parts only. |
| Also sold as | Blue Torrent JHVS15DBS, Blue Torrent JHVS15DBT | - |
| Released | 2025-10 | 2022-07 |