What you need to know about Federal Pool Pump Energy Efficiency Standards
By Dallas Thiesen, FSPA Government Affairs Manager / Dallas@FloridaPoolPro.com
In 2017 the United States Department of Energy adopted new energy efficiency rules for swimming pool and spa pumps, called “Energy Conservation Standards for Dedicated-Purpose Pool Pumps” pursuant to the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (42 U.S.C. 6291, et seq.).
In broad terms the new regulations will require all newly installed pumps between one and five mechanical horsepower (.711 – 2.5 hydraulic horsepower) to meet new energy efficiency performance standards. The new energy efficiency standards will take full effect on July 19, 2021.
Does this rule require variable-speed pumps?
The new rules do not expressly require variable-speed pumps. However, the rule establishes performance standards that right now can only be satisfied by variable-speed pumps. Under this rule, pool and spa pumps between one and five mechanical horsepower will need to meet the performance standards and will be variable speed. Pumps less than one horsepower should be able to meet the performance standards as single-speed pump.
Do the new regulations apply to commercial and residential pool and spa pumps?
Yes, the regulations apply to all pool and spa pumps manufactured and sold in the United States, regardless of the classification of the end-user’s swimming pool or spa.
Can older non-compliant pool pumps be repaired when they break or do they have to be replaced?
Yes, currently installed pool pumps that do not meet the new energy efficiency standards may be repaired and do not necessarily need to be replaced when they stop working. However, the Department of Energy is currently in the rulemaking process to set new energy efficacy standards for stand-alone motors. This motor regulation is intended to dovetail with the new pool pump rules so that replacement motors for older dual and single-speed pumps that do not meet the new efficiency standards will eventually become commercially unavailable. In short, repair of older pumps will be possible as long as the motors are commercially available.
As the implementation date of the new pool and spa pump rules approaches, FSPA will be keeping you updated with important information and training to help everyone understand the new regulations. If you have any questions or concerns please reach out Dallas Thiesen at Dallas@FloridaPooPro.com or at 941-952-9293.