XtremepowerUS 1.65 HP Variable Speed
#13 in In-GroundFull review
An efficient, low-cost swap for a Hayward Super Pump-sized single-speed pump on a 230 V circuit, if you don’t need a schedule or app.
Amazon $659.95$659.95
The XtremepowerUS 1.65 HP Variable Speed is the better pool pump overall, rated 3.3 to 2.6. The XtremepowerUS 1.65 HP Variable Speed leads on efficiency and value. The Waterway Power Defender 165 wins on controls. The XtremepowerUS 1.65 HP Variable Speed costs $532.04 less ($659.95 vs $1,191.99).
Waterway Power Defender 165
#31 in In-GroundFull review
A dual-voltage drop-in for a mid-size in-ground pool, for owners who want simple keypad control; most rivals of this size are more efficient.
Amazon $1,191.99$1,191.99
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 1.65 HP Variable Speed for efficiency (WEF 10.2, 39% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size vs WEF 7.8, 17% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size) and value ($660 for 1.6 HP ($400 per HP) vs $1,192 for 1.6 HP ($722 per HP)).
- Choose the Waterway Power Defender 165 for controls (Built-in schedule, works with waterway oasis, jandy aqualink 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 in-ground pool pump; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | XtremepowerUS 1.65 HP Variable Speed | Waterway Power Defender 165 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 2.6/5 |
| Efficiency 35% | 57 WEF 10.2, 39% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 14 WEF 7.8, 17% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size |
| Value 25% | 73 $660 for 1.6 HP ($400 per HP) | 38 $1,192 for 1.6 HP ($722 per HP) |
| Warranty 15% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 25 2-year warranty |
| Controls 15% | 0 No schedule, wi-fi or automation link | 65 Built-in schedule, works with waterway oasis, jandy aqualink |
| Noise 10% | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| XtremepowerUS 1.65 HP Variable Speed | Waterway Power Defender 165 | |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency ratings | ||
| Pump type | In-ground (self-priming) | In-ground (self-priming) |
| Motor | Variable speed | Variable speed |
| Rated horsepower (DOE) | 1.6 HP | 1.6 HP |
| Hydraulic horsepower (DOE) | 0.7 HP | 1 HP |
| Weighted energy factor (WEF) | 10.2 kgal/kWh | 7.8 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 7.4 kgal/kWh | 6.7 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR certified | Yes | No |
| Pump | ||
| Voltage | 230 V | 115/230 V |
| Speed range | 1,000 to 3,450 rpm | - |
| Maximum flow | 122 gpm | - |
| Pipe size | 2 in | 2 in |
| Size (W × D × H) | 10.7 × 26.8 × 13.8 in | - |
| Controls | ||
| Built-in schedule | - | Yes |
| Freeze protection | No | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Automation compatibility | - | Waterway OASIS, Jandy AquaLink |
| Warranty and models | ||
| Warranty | - | 2 years |
| Warranty terms | No warranty terms published on the listing. | Waterway warranty: Power Defender variable-speed pumps carry a 2-year warranty from the sale date with proof of purchase; claims go through the place of purchase. Freeze damage isn't covered. |
| Released | 2026-03 | - |