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 2.3. The XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed leads on efficiency, value and controls. The XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed costs $249.05 less ($379.95 vs $629).
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 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 5.7, 28% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size), value ($380 for 1.5 HP ($253 per HP) vs $629 for 1 HP ($629 per HP)) and controls (Built-in schedule 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 | XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed | Hayward PowerFlo Matrix 2-Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.0/5 | 2.3/5 |
| Efficiency 35% | 83 WEF 12.2, 161% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 5 WEF 5.7, 28% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size |
| Value 25% | 99 $380 for 1.5 HP ($253 per HP) | 46 $629 for 1 HP ($629 per HP) |
| Warranty 15% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 25 2-year warranty |
| Controls 15% | 30 Built-in schedule | 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
| XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed | 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) | 12.2 kgal/kWh | 5.7 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 4.7 kgal/kWh | 4.5 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 | No |
| Freeze protection | No | No |
| Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Warranty and models | ||
| Warranty | - | 2 years |
| Warranty terms | - | 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 | Splash / CIPU 72526, NORTHFLO PMP-72526 | - |
| Released | 2026-03 | - |