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 3.5. The XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed leads on efficiency. The VIVOHOME 2 HP Dual Speed VH1896 costs $109.96 less ($269.99 vs $379.95).
VIVOHOME 2 HP Dual Speed VH1896
#4 in Above-GroundFull review
A budget two-speed pump with a scheduling remote, for above-ground pool owners who want hands-off speed changes for little money.
Amazon $269.99$269.99
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 7, 112% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size).
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 | VIVOHOME 2 HP Dual Speed VH1896 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.0/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Efficiency 35% | 83 WEF 12.2, 161% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 54 WEF 7, 112% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size |
| Value 25% | 99 $380 for 1.5 HP ($253 per HP) | 100 $270 for 2 HP ($135 per HP) |
| Warranty 15% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) |
| Controls 15% | 30 Built-in schedule | 30 Built-in schedule |
| Noise 10% | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) | 0 65 dB(A) |
Specifications
| XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed | VIVOHOME 2 HP Dual Speed VH1896 | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 2 HP |
| Hydraulic horsepower (DOE) | 0.4 HP | 1.7 HP |
| Weighted energy factor (WEF) | 12.2 kgal/kWh | 7 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 4.7 kgal/kWh | 3.3 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR certified | Yes | No |
| Pump | ||
| Voltage | - | 230 V |
| Speed range | 1,000 to 3,450 rpm | - |
| Pipe size | 1.5 in | - |
| Sound level | - | 65 dB(A) |
| Controls | ||
| Built-in schedule | Yes | Yes |
| Freeze protection | No | - |
| Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Warranty and models | ||
| Also sold as | Splash / CIPU 72526, NORTHFLO PMP-72526 | - |
| Released | 2026-03 | - |