Pentair SuperFlo VS 1.5 HP vs BLACK+DECKER 1.5 HP Variable Speed: Full Comparison
Spec-for-spec breakdown of two of the most popular 1.5 HP variable speed inground pumps — warranty, flow, connectivity, and what to check before you swap.
The best-selling VS pump. Excellent hydraulics and whisper-quiet — but a 1-year parts-only warranty when purchased online.
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.
| PentairSuperFlo VS 1.5 HP | BLACK+DECKER1.5 HP Variable Speed | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Varies by dealer Pentair EC model sold via authorized online dealers | $1,199.95 PoolPartsToGo price today — often found for less than the SuperFlo VS |
| Warranty | 1 year parts Online (EC) purchase; 3-yr bundled requires pro installation | 5 yearsLongest in class — full coverage buying online |
| Max flow rate | ~115 GPMManufacturer curve, high speed | 110 GPM Within ~5% — effectively equivalent |
| Horsepower | 1.5 HP | 1.5 HP Tie |
| Speed type | Variable — 8 programmable speeds | Variable — fully programmable Tie — both variable speed |
| Energy Star certified | Yes | Yes Tie — both rebate-eligible |
| Smart controls | Onboard LCD; automation panel required for remote 24V relay for EasyTouch, IntelliCenter, OmniLogic | Built-in Wi-FiApp control out of the box — no panel required |
| Voltage | 115 / 230V Field-convertible | 115 / 230V Tie — dual voltage |
| Noise level | ~45 dB at low speed | 45 dB at low speed Tie — both dishwasher-quiet |
| Plumbing connections | 1.5" / 2" unions Included | 1.5" / 2" unions Tie — direct swap |
| Weight | ~46 lbs | 41 lbs 5 lbs lighter |
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 SuperFlo VS, before you count energy savings and utility rebates.
Replacing a Pentair SuperFlo? Check these three things
Both pumps use 1.5" / 2" union connections, so existing SuperFlo plumbing connects without adapters.
Base bolt pattern fits standard equipment pads. Verify pad clearance for the motor housing before ordering.
Both pumps run 115V or 230V. Confirm which your current pump is wired for — it's on the motor label.