Hayward TriStar VS 940
#11 in Large PoolsFull review
A 4 HP TriStar for large pools with heavy water-feature loads; for an ordinary pool a TriStar VS 900 or 950 uses less power.
Hayward (find a dealer)
3.1/5
A plain, programmable 2.7 HP pump for a large in-ground pool, for owners who want keypad or relay control rather than an app.
- 2.7 HPRated power
- 7.3WEF
- 29% aboveAbove ENERGY STAR minimum
- 230 VVoltage
- 2 yearsWarranty
Check price at Amazon$1,399.99
Price checked October 27, 2026. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Pros
- Keypad schedule plus relay inputs work with almost any timer or automation
- Can power a booster pump or chlorinator from the pump
- Built-in freeze protection
Cons
- 230 V only
- No app or Wi-Fi
- Only a 2-year warranty
The Waterway Power Defender VS family
Every Waterway Power Defender VS model we rank, smallest first. Ratings compare each against its own pool type.
| Model | Rated power | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterway Power Defender 165 | 1.6 HP | 2.6/5 | $1,191.99 |
| Waterway Power Defender 270 (this one) | 2.7 HP | 3.1/5 | $1,399.99 |
How it scores
The rating comes from 5 measured or published factors, each scored 0-100 against fixed reference points for its pool type. How we rank explains each one.
Specifications
| Model number | PD-270 |
|---|---|
| Efficiency ratings | |
| Pump type | In-ground (self-priming) |
| Motor | Variable speed |
| Rated horsepower (DOE) | 2.7 HP |
| Hydraulic horsepower (DOE) | 1.5 HP |
| Weighted energy factor (WEF) | 7.3 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 5.7 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR certified | No |
| Pump | |
| Voltage | 230 V |
| Pipe size | 2 in |
| Weight | 60 lb |
| Controls | |
| Built-in schedule | Yes |
| Freeze protection | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | No |
| Automation compatibility | Waterway OASIS, Jandy AquaLink |
| Warranty and models | |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Warranty terms | 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. |
Alternatives in this pool type
Pentair IntelliFlo VS+SVRS
#12 in Large PoolsFull review
For pools that need a pump with built-in safety vacuum release (SVRS), such as single-drain pools where code calls for one; otherwise the IntelliFlo3 VSF is the more efficient choice.
Amazon $2,323.61 Leslie's $2,234.25$2,234.25
Jandy VS FloPro 3.8 HP
#14 in Large PoolsFull review
For large pools with demanding features where a dealer needs more head and flow than a 2.7 HP pump gives; most pools are better served, and cheaper to run, with a smaller pump.
Amazon $2,499.41$2,499.41
Compare
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