“Pentair vs. Hayward” is a debate that’s quite famous—in the world of pool cleaning, that is. To give you a bit of background, here’s the gist of what people think about their brands:
Pentair has had a better reputation for being at the forefront of producing high-quality variable speed pumps for many years.
On the contrary, Hayward is a little bit behind in terms of reputation rankings compared to Pentair. But what they lack in reputation, they make up for in their impressive range of products and product reliability.
Nonetheless, new consumers may find it hard to weigh and judge which of these two they should purchase.
So, if you’re planning to buy pool pumps, then this one’s for you.
| Pentair SuperFlo® VS Variable Speed Pool Pump | Hayward PowerFlo Pool Pump | |
| Color | Tan | Black |
| Weight | 35 pounds (15.88 kg) | 24 pounds (10.89 kg) |
| Product Dimensions (LxWxH) | 28″ x 12.5″ x 15.5″ | 20.5″ x 6.5″ x 8.5″ |
| Style | Pool Pump | Ideal for above ground |
| Pool pump type | Variable Speed Pump | Single Speed |
| Port Size | 1.5″ | 1.5″ |
| Power Source | Wooded Pellet | Corded Electric |
| Voltage | 230 Volts | 115 Volts |
| Suitable for pools that need 1.5 hp? | Yes | Yes |
| User-friendly interface? | Yes | Yes |
| Has real-time clock? | Yes | No |
| Has ultra-quiet TEFC motor? | Yes | No |
| Has a weather resistant PermaGlass XL? | No | Yes |
| Requires minimal upkeep? | No | Yes |
Page Contents
Similarities
There is no doubt that the two pool equipments are entirely different from each other, right from their color and weight all the way down to their operating speeds.
But having been created for the same purpose, the two still have some similarities, such as:
- User-friendly interfaces
- Perfect for regular pools that need up to a 1.5 horsepower pump
- Features 1.5 inches port size
- Heavy-duty motors provide reliable performance
- Equal footing in terms of durability
Differences Between Hayward vs. Pentair
1. Outward appearance and weight
The two have different appearances. The Pentair’s Superflo ® boasts a tan color and is comparatively bigger (with 28 x 15.5 x 12.5 inches) and heavier (35 pounds).
On the contrary, Hayward’s Power-Flo Pool Pump has a sleek black color and is smaller (20.5 x 6.5 x 8.5 inches) and lighter (24 pounds).
2. Operating speed:
This is where the difference between the two contenders becomes apparent.
- Pentair has definitely upped their game with this one, as they made a variable-speed pump for their customers.
Their machine has three operating speed settings, allowing you to adjust the flow rate of water through the circulation system. When you reduce the flow rate of water, you effectively reduce the amperage.
This means that using their machine can save you pennies on your next electricity bill.
- Hayward’s, on the other hand, only has a single pump. Therefore, it only operates at a constant speed.
And although the machine can also produce the same outcome, the disadvantage is that it hogs energy and raises your electricity bill.
3. Other feature differences
- Pentair’s Superflo has a real-time clock with 24-hour memory retention and an ultra-quiet TEFC motor, while Hayward’s Power-Flo does not.
- Hayward’s Power-Flo has a weather-resistant PermaGlass XL that houses its motor and is thus corrosion-proof, while Pentfair’s Superflo does not.
- Their power sources are also different. Pentair’s power source is wood pellets, while Hayward’s is corded electric.
- Hayward’s Power-Flo lacks an on/off switch, but it has a large strainer basket. Its pump also features shaft seals and a self-lubricating basket with a clear lid.
4. Performance
Technically, the Pentair has better performance as it gives consumers more control over water flow rate because of its three operating speed settings.
But, according to Hayward’s consumers, the Power-Flo did not disappoint them, and they found them well-made and durable.
And since its pump incorporates a self-lubricating basket and shaft seals, it requires minimal upkeep.
5. Cost
In terms of upfront costs, Hayward’s Power-Flo is definitely cheaper. But, when you also take into account the costs that it will take for it to operate (electricity bill), Pentair has a better edge.
Hayward’s Power-Flo:
- 1 HP (W3SP1580)- $348.98
- 1 HP (SP1580)- $412.27
- 1.5 HP (W3SP1580X15)- $359.00
- 1.5 HP (SP1580X15)- $528. 98
Pentair’s Superflo (price on Amazon): $1,199.98
Pros and Cons
So, which should you choose?
Overall, if you prioritize performance and think about your future electricity bills, then Pentair’s Superflo is the one for you. However, if you prioritize upfront costs and maintenance, then Hayward may be the better option.
Check out their pros and cons to make your decision.
1. Pentair’s Superflo ® VS Variable speed pool pump
- Has three operating speed settings (with override capability)
- Energy saving
- Costs less to operate; it can save more on electricity bill
- Has real-time clock
- Ultra-quiet TEFC motor
- More expensive or high upfront cost
- The buyer will pay additional costs to Pentair to install the Powerflo. According to their guidelines, self-installation will void the warranty.
- Only customers who purchase the goods from a retail brick-and-mortar store are eligible for the 2-year warranty.
2. Hayward’s Power-Flo pool pump
- Has large strainer basket.
- Its pump incorporates shaft seals and a self-lubricating basket with a clear lid.
- Requires little maintenance
- Corrosion-proof because it has a weather-resistant PermaGlass XL
- Low upfront cost
- Only operates at a fixed speed
- Lacks on/off switch
Conclusion
As it turns out, there’s really no right or wrong answer when it comes to the question, “What’s better, Pentair vs. Hayward?”, because the choice all boils down to what you value most in the present.
Do you value the upfront cost or performance? Do you prefer the pool pump to be corrosion-free or have a real-time clock?
Do you mind if it doesn’t have an on/off switch? These are just some of the questions you may need to answer before investing in a pool pump.
