Pool pumps are some of the noisiest pieces of equipment that you can have around the home. When you’re chilling in the pool, you don’t want the peaceful atmosphere to be disrupted by a loud pool pump.
There are so many different pool pumps available. What is the quietest pool pump on the market?
We’ve reviewed a range of quiet pool pumps that deliver performance without the noise.
OUR TOP PICK
The Intex 28633EG Krystal Clear cartridge filter pump is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for the quietest pool pump at a decent price point.
This particular pool pump is available at a much more competitive price than some of the other pool pumps we found on the market.
This quiet pool pump is highly compatible with a range of pool sizes. It has been designed to be suitable for use with pools up to 15,200 gallons.
It uses 1.25 inch diameter hose fittings so that you can easily hook this pool pump up to the rest of your pool equipment. You won’t have to worry about taking ages to clean this pool pump, either.
It has been designed to be easy to clean, and comes with a replaceable 2900E Type B filter to make your life easier.
Another great feature of this pool pump is that it features a filter pump design. This works to improve the filtration and circulation in your pool, as well as water clarity.
This pool pump also works to increase the negative ions in your pool water. The pump typically runs around 110V to 120V, and is lightweight in design. It has a pump capacity of 2,500 GPH and a flow rate of 1,900 GPH.
Everything about this pool pump shouts quality. It comes with a range of great features to make your life easier, all while being highly efficient. The pump is double insulated, and features air release valves and a sediment flush.
There’s a built-in ground fault circuit, interpreter, and a strainer basket included to help prolong the life of the pump itself. It even comes with an automatic timer as well as preset 2 to 12 hour cycles for easier operation.
Pros
- Affordable - available at a more competitive price
- Versatile - suitable for use with pools up to 15,200 gallons
- Easy operation - comes with a range of features which makes the pump easier to use
- Very quiet operation
Cons
- Power - may not be as powerful as some competitive models for larger pools
EDITORS CHOICE
The Hayward W3SP1580 PowerFlo pool pump is a fantastic choice if you want to opt for a trusted brand.
Hayward has a reputation for being one of the best in the business when it comes to creating quality pool pumps. This is the quietest Hayward pool pump and is more affordable than the Pentair models we’ve reviewed below, too.
What’s really great about this particular pool pump is that it comes with a heavy duty motor.
This heavy duty motor means it’s not going to have to strain to deal with the volume of water it needs to pump. This means you get much quieter pool pump operation than you would from lower power pumps. This particular motor will give you a reliable performance that you can depend on.
It will also be highly efficient in terms of energy consumption so won’t cost you a fortune to run.
You won’t have to worry about this pool pump breaking after a couple of months. This particular model has been designed to feature a durable, corrosion proof housing unit.
This helps to protect your pool pump from all weathers, so you can rest assured that it won’t let you down. This durable construction ensures that the Hayward W3SP1580 PowerFlo delivers a consistently quiet operation.
This particular pool pump will also be super easy to maintain on a daily and weekly basis. It comes with an extra large debris basket, as well as a clear cover.
This helps to keep the pool maintenance to a minimum. There’s also a drain plug included to give you easier maintenance of your new pool pump.
Pros
- Quality - made by one of the market’s leading manufacturers
- Quiet operation - features a heavy duty motor for quiet, reliable performance
- Hard wearing - hardware covered by a durable casing to withstand all weathers
Cons
- Connector - doesn’t come with a twist lock connector
BEST VALUE
The Pentair SuperFlo VS variable speed pool pump 342001 is one of the best quiet pool pumps on the market.
This particular pool pump features a quality construction that will be unrivalled by other cheaper models from competitors. This particular pool pump will be perfect for standard pools that need a 1.5 HP pool pump.
What’s really great about this particular pool pump is that it comes with variable speed technology. This means it won’t cost a bomb to operate, and can even help to save you money in the long term.
Compared to a single speed pump, the Pentair SuperFlo VS variable speed pool pump could save you up to $0.16 per kWh in a 20,000 gallon pool.
This variable speed also means you can adjust the pool pump to suit your needs.
If you’re looking for quieter pool pump operation while you’re having a swim, simply lower the speed settings. This will be noticeably quieter than pool pumps which only come with a single speed setting.
There are 3 different speed settings for you to choose from.
Another great feature of this particular pump is that it will be super easy for you to operate. It comes with an advanced digital display as well as a 24 hour clock.
All of its great features help to improve its usability. You can easily monitor the pool pump and program in your favorite settings. This is the quietest pool pump we've seen that has all of these features.
Pros
- Variable speeds - adjust the speed settings for quieter operation
- Efficient - saves you money compared to single speed pool pumps
- Ultra quiet pump motor - motor is fan cooled and totally enclosed for quieter operation
Cons
- Expensive - one of the pricier options on our list
RUNNER UP
The Blue Wave NE6183 Tidal Wave 2-speed pool pump is another excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable performance. This quietest pool pump features a dual port design.
So you can use it for either horizontal or vertical discharge depending on your particular pool. This pool pump will also fit the majority of filter systems.
What’s really great about this pool pump is that it comes with 2 different speeds for you to choose from. You can easily adjust between the speeds to save yourself money or even to lower the noise level even more.
It’s also super easy to switch between the speed settings using the included toggle rocker switch.
This quiet swimming pool pump will be durable enough to last you for many years to come.
It features a corrosion proof polymer construction so as to give you many years of dependable service. The slower speed setting also means that the pump will last you longer and run quieter.
Pros
- 2 speeds - choose the best setting for your pool
- Dual port design - can be fitted for horizontal or vertical flow
- Durable - features a sturdy, corrosion resistant polymer construction
Cons
- California - not suitable for sale in California
RUNNER UP
If you have an above-ground pool, the Harris ProForce may well be a first choice for you. This is the quietest above-ground pool pump we've reviewed.
Built of thermoplastic to be both durable and cost-conscious, it’s an easy install and resists corrosion.
The thermoplastic construction gives effective protection against weather, physical damage, invasive bugs, and quite a lot else besides.
Powered by a 1.5 horsepower motor, it keeps the water in your pool moving, but with a surprisingly – and pleasingly - quiet action.
That’s down to some advanced engineering equations that maintain the power and efficiency, but ramp down the noise.
Now, things are not all wine and roses.
The Harris ProForce is just a single-speed pump, which means it loses out on both some efficiency and some quietness by not being programmable to the right speed for your pool.
It also means that unfortunately, Californians need not apply for the ProForce, because it’s over the power limit for a single-speed pump in the state.
For everybody else though, Harris has tried to make it user-friendly – it has a standard 4-prong power cord, so any 115V outlet will take it gladly.
Beware one other thing though – the power cord on the Harris is just 3 feet long, which feels like an unnecessary annoyance in what is otherwise a sweetly quiet alternative to a standard noisy pool pump.
Pros
- It combines high power (for a motor of its size) with an elegantly quiet sound output
- A thermoplastic construction is proof against water, shock, critters, and more
- It installs with almost ridiculous ease
Cons
- It could be quieter still, were it programmable
- It’s over-powered for a single-speed pump in California
- The power cord is very short at just 3 feet
RUNNER UP
While the top of our league is dominated by 1.5 HP pumps, XtremepowerUS brings a whole 2 horsepower to its in-ground pump.
As you might expect, you’ll need a 220V electric circuit to move that pair of horses, and if you don’t have that at your pool already, you could be looking at an awkward upgrade. But if you already run a 220V circuit at the pool, the XtremepowerUS makes for an easy replacement for your current pump.
With 2 HP at your disposal, you can move up to 88 gallons per minute, which blows your hair back a little when you appreciate it.
A maximum suction of 65 feet means you have a perfect in-ground pump option here.
Two speed options mean you don’t have to run it at full power the whole time (your power bill will thank you for that), and when you run it at its lower speed, you also get a much quieter, more gentle effect.
Handily, the XtremepowerUS features an oversized debris basket, so you don’t need to clean it out every day.
While it’s more notable for the extra power it can give you in its higher mode, the low mode on the XtremepowerUS is suitably quiet to earn it a place on our list of the quietest pool pumps.
Pros
- It’s pleasingly quiet in its lower speed mode
- 2 HP gives you phenomenal power, making it perfect for in-ground pools
- The extra-large debris basket is an extra convenience
Cons
- If you don’t already have a 220V circuit at your pool, this is probably not the pump for you
RUNNER UP
With only half the horsepower of the XtremepowerUS, the Hayward SP2607X10 Super Pump brings both performance and quietness to your pool pump profile.
In fact, the 1 HP version is our choice for its quietness, but it’s available in variants from just half a horsepower up to 2.5 HP, so you can choose the right size for your particular pool.
Another excellent choice for in-ground pools, it has enough suction to lift water 10 feet.
This is a pump that plays well with others, and doesn’t demur whether it’s dealing with 48-frame or 56-frame motors.
In the event of accidents or malfunctions, the Hayward pleasingly allows access to its internal elements, meaning any repairs can be made in quick time.
Although, like the Harris ProForce, this is only a single-speed pump, improved ventilation allows it to run cooler, and therefore to be a quieter pump, than anything else about it would suggest.
But beware – if you want to save the planet, this pump might give you pause.
It misses out on the hoped-for energy-star certification, so the quiet comes a little tinged with planetary guilt.
Pros
- Improved ventilation make this very quiet for a single-speed pump
- It has 10 feet of water lift, so it’s a great option for in-ground pools
- It gives easy access to its internal working, for easy maintenance when needed
Cons
- No energy-star certification, so it’s not the most eco-friendly of pumps
RUNNER UP
Last in our list of quietest pool pump models is the Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo variable speed pool pump.
This quiet pool pump is the creme de la creme when it comes to low noise pool pump operation. Even though it clocks in at a premium price, it is a model that will last you for many years to come.
This particular pump offers you a dramatically quieter pump operation than competitive models on the market.
It comes with 8 different programmable speeds for you to use. There’s even a built-in timer to help you find the best settings for your needs.
Another great feature of this pool pump is that it comes with built-in diagnostics. This works to protect the pool pump, as well as ensure it lasts you for much longer.
Pros
- Quiet pool pump operation - dramatically reduces the noise of your pool pump
- 8 speeds - choose the best setting for your needs
- Diagnostics - works to elongate the lifespan of your pool pump
Cons
- Expensive - one of the more expensive models on the market
Quietest Pool Pump Buying Guide
Searching for the quietest pool pump is a real challenge. This equipment is notoriously loud. While there is plenty of choice on the market, there’s no guarantee that the pool pump you’re investing in will actually be a quieter model.
We’ve put together a list of all our research criteria to help you. Use the below factors to find your next pool pump so that you can ensure it will give you a quieter operation.
As long as your preferred pool pump has the below features covered, you can rest assured that it will be much quieter than the noisy model you have in place at the moment.
Motor
The most important element for finding a quieter pool pump will be its motor. This is the part of the pool pump which will create the most noise.
You will need to opt for a pool pump that comes with a heavy duty motor. This should be able to deal with heavier operation without straining the pump.
So because the heavy duty motor will be capable of handling more use, it should remain quieter than competitive pool pumps which don’t use as powerful a motor. This principle also applies to choosing a quiet sump pump.
Single Or Variable Speed Pool Pump?
While single-speed pumps are fine – and indeed, some make it onto our list – you can get a much more nuanced noise level if you choose a variable-speed pump, because you can adjust it to match the size and volume of your pool.
That way, it’s not using excess energy, and it’s not forced to make excess noise simply to get the job done.
Obviously, you don’t want to go for a pool pump that’s deliberately underpowered for the size of your pool, or it will be next to functionally useless.
But by going with a variable-speed pump, you can usually get a quieter pool pump and more efficient operation, whatever size your pool is.
Compatibility
Another important factor to consider is how compatible your chosen pool pump is with your particular swimming pool.
There’s no point in opting for a smaller pool pump in the hopes that it will be quieter if it’s not able to cope with the size of your pool. You will need to opt for a pool pump that is able to deal with the volume of water you need to be cleaned.
This goes hand in hand with our point above about the motor. The larger and more powerful your pool pump, the quieter it will be. Smaller pool pumps will have to be working doubly as hard to clean a larger pool.
Budget
Your budget may dictate which pool pumps you’re able to afford. Not everyone can afford the fancy Pentair pool pumps which can cost a couple of grand.
You should examine the size of your pool to determine how powerful a pump you need. This should then give you a better idea of how much money you have to play with when it comes to choosing your next pool pump.
Opt for the best quietest pool pump that you can reasonably afford. Remember, if you buy cheap, you often have to buy twice.
So it will be better for you and your pool in the long run if you spend a little bit extra now to get the best pool pump you can afford. This should then last you for much longer, and save you money in the process!
Durable
You will of course want to opt for a pool pump that is durable. The more durable and sturdy your pool pump, the longer it will last you.
Take a look at the components used to manufacture your quiet pool pump. Does it feature hard wearing plastic elements that won’t corrode over time? How sturdy does the pump look? If the manufacturer has used cheaper elements, the pool pump likely won’t last you as long.
Easy to Use
Choosing a quiet pool pump that’s easy to use will also be an essential factor to consider. You won’t want to have paid all that money for a pool pump that’s too complicated for you to use!
Ensure that your chosen pool pump comes with a set of complete instructions so that you know how to set it up properly, and how to use it once it’s in place.
It will also be useful to look for a pump that comes with a set of automatic settings to make the process even easier.
Easy to Clean
Cleaning your pool pump will be especially important if you want a model that’s going to last you for many years to come.
Dirt and debris can build up over time - especially if your pool pump is doing the job it should be.Clean it properly and even give it a blast with an air compressor every few months to get all that grit out.
Look for a model that is super easy to clean. Can you easily get to all the elements that need to be cleaned properly every now and then? Is the filter replaceable so you can make sure that everything is working smoothly?
It may not seem like such a big deal at first glance, but an easier to clean model will more than pay for itself over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the quietest pool pump?
The quietest pool pumps are:
- Intex 28633EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump
- Hayward W3SP1580 PowerFlo Pool Pump
- Pentair SuperFlo VS Variable Speed Pool Pump 342001
- Blue Wave NE6183 Tidal Wave 2-Speed Pump
- Pentair 011018 IntelliFlo Variable Speed Pool Pump
How do I reduce the noise on my pool pump?
There are a couple of tricks you can use to reduce the noise of your pool pump, aside from opting for one of the newer, quieter models we’ve reviewed in more detail above.
You can replace the bearings in your pool pump. If your previously quiet pool pump has just started to make noise, then chances are it’s the bearings which are causing the issue.
Make sure to clean the impeller so that your pool pump can work properly. Clean the debris basket and skimmer if you notice a buildup of unwanted matter.
You will also need to ensure that the pump is full of water. You can check this by looking through the little window. It may also be worth raising the water level in your pool.
Another option is to place an anti vibration pad under the pump itself. For the majority of noisy appliances, it’s the vibrations which cause the most noise.
Using an anti vibration pad reduces the noise of your pump, and can also reduce the damage it would incur otherwise through vibrations. You can also buy or build a pool pump quiet box to dampen the noise.
How many decibels should a pool pump be?
It's going to be louder than a quiet electric fuel pump but shouldn't be that loud if properly enclosed. Pool pumps are typically around 65 to 90 decibels. They aren’t the quietest of equipment, however, you should be able to find a quieter pool pump in our extensive reviews above.
You can also take a few measures to dampen the noise if your loud pool pump bothers you.
Which Pool Pump Is Quieter, A Single-Speed Or Variable-Speed Pump?
Usually, a variable-speed pump gives you the better result on quietness, because you can match it more to the size of your pool, meaning you’re not using excess energy and creating additional, unnecessary noise.
Is A Quieter Pool Pump Going To Mean Less Power?
Not necessarily. In the ordinary run of things, you would expect less noise to mean less power, yes. But there are some pumps out there that use clever engineering or simple pump housings to either lower the noise level of even a powerful pump, or simply to muffle it during its operation, so as to combine acceptable pumping power with significantly lower noise levels.
So these days, demanding a quieter pool pump doesn’t necessarily mean demanding a solution with lower power.
Does It Make A Difference In Terms Of Noise, Whether You Have An Above-Ground Or In-Ground Pool?
Not really. The science of lowering the noise produced by pool pumps has been addressing the problem simultaneously with above-ground and in-ground pool pumps.
While the operation of the pumps in each case may be slightly different, the noise reduction side of the equation works equally well either way.
So it doesn’t matter what sort of pool you have, you can have a quiet pool pump, and a relaxing swim.