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 $379.95The XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed is the better pool pump overall, rated 4.0 to 3.8. The XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed leads on efficiency and value. The BLACK+DECKER VS Above-Ground 1.5 HP wins on controls. The XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed costs $270.05 less ($379.95 vs $650).
A Wi-Fi variable-speed pump for above-ground pools, for owners who want app scheduling and a long warranty.
Amazon $650Prices 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 10.2, 114% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size) and value ($380 for 1.5 HP ($253 per HP) vs $650 for 1.5 HP ($433 per HP)).
- Choose the BLACK+DECKER VS Above-Ground 1.5 HP for controls (Built-in schedule, built-in wi-fi vs Built-in schedule).
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 | BLACK+DECKER VS Above-Ground 1.5 HP |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.0/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Efficiency 35% | 83 WEF 12.2, 161% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 55 WEF 10.2, 114% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size |
| Value 25% | 99 $380 for 1.5 HP ($253 per HP) | 68 $650 for 1.5 HP ($433 per HP) |
| Warranty 15% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 100 5-year warranty |
| Controls 15% | 30 Built-in schedule | 65 Built-in schedule, built-in wi-fi |
| Noise 10% | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed | BLACK+DECKER VS Above-Ground 1.5 HP | |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency ratings | ||
| Pump type | Above-ground (non-self-priming) | Above-ground (non-self-priming) |
| Motor | Variable speed | Variable speed |
| Rated horsepower (DOE) | 1.5 HP | 1.5 HP |
| Hydraulic horsepower (DOE) | 0.4 HP | 0.4 HP |
| Weighted energy factor (WEF) | 12.2 kgal/kWh | 10.2 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 4.7 kgal/kWh | 4.8 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR certified | Yes | Yes |
| Pump | ||
| Voltage | - | 115/230 V |
| Speed range | 1,000 to 3,450 rpm | 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 | Yes |
| Freeze protection | No | No |
| Wi-Fi | No | Built in |
| App | - | Black+Decker |
| Warranty and models | ||
| Warranty | - | 5 years |
| Warranty terms | - | 5-year limited warranty from Blue Torrent Pool Products (the licensee), served through its pump service center or the retailer. |
| Also sold as | Splash / CIPU 72526, NORTHFLO PMP-72526 | Blue Torrent JHVS15DBS, Blue Torrent JHVS15DBT |
| Released | 2026-03 | 2025-10 |
