Hayward MaxFlo XL 1.5 HP vs BLACK+DECKER 1.5 HP Variable Speed: Full Comparison
Spec-for-spec breakdown of two popular 1.5 HP inground pool pumps — price, warranty, flow rate, energy use, and what to check before you swap.
The entry-level medium-head workhorse. Solid hydraulics and value — single speed, short warranty, discontinued at several retailers.
Variable speed, Energy Star certified, and backed by a 5-year warranty — the longest in its class.
Shop at PoolPartsToGo — $1,199.95Spec-by-spec comparison
Highlighted cells mark the stronger spec in each row. Where a manufacturer doesn't publish a figure, we say so.
| HaywardMaxFlo XL 1.5 HP | BLACK+DECKER1.5 HP Variable Speed | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Varies by dealer Discontinued at several retailers; remaining stock varies | $1,199.95 PoolPartsToGo price today — often found for less than the MaxFlo XL |
| Warranty | 1 year Hayward Open Line (online) warranty | 5 yearsLongest in class |
| Max flow rate | ~95 GPM Medium-head hydraulics | 110 GPMHigher rated flow |
| Horsepower | 1.5 HP | 1.5 HP Tie |
| Speed type | Single speed | Variable speedProgrammable 1,200–3,450 RPM |
| Energy Star certified | No DOE compliant only | YesMay qualify for utility rebates |
| Voltage | 115 / 208-230V | 115 / 230V Tie — dual voltage |
| Noise level | Not published by manufacturer | 45 dB at low speedRoughly dishwasher-quiet |
| Plumbing connections | 1.5" / 2" unions CPVC unions included | 1.5" / 2" unions Tie — direct swap |
| Weight | ~34 lbs | 41 lbs Heavier — larger motor assembly |
What the spec differences mean
5-year warranty
Pool pumps typically fail from seal and bearing wear in years 2–4 — exactly the window a 1-year warranty leaves you exposed. Five years of coverage means one less replacement cycle you pay for.
Variable speed pays twice
Running at low RPM for daily filtration cuts energy use up to 70% vs single-speed. Energy Star certification may also qualify you for a utility rebate — check rebates in your ZIP code.
Same footprint, often for less
Identical flow rating and union sizes make this a like-for-like swap — and it's often found for less than the Hayward, before you count energy savings and utility rebates.
Replacing a Hayward MaxFlo XL? Check these three things
The MaxFlo XL uses 1.5" x 2" CPVC unions. The BD-VS1500 matches both — existing plumbing connects without adapters.
The MaxFlo XL sits on an elevated base; confirm pad space for the BD-VS1500's footprint before ordering.
Both pumps run 115V or 230V. Confirm which your current pump is wired for — it's on the motor label.