Sta-Rite Max-E-Pro 1.5 HP vs BLACK+DECKER 1.5 HP Variable Speed: Full Comparison
Spec-for-spec breakdown of two 1.5 HP inground pool pumps — price, warranty, voltage, energy use, and what to check before you swap.
The pool pro's favorite. Efficient full-rated hydraulics and quiet dampened base — single speed, 230V only, 60-day online warranty.
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.
| Sta-RiteMax-E-Pro 1.5 HP | BLACK+DECKER1.5 HP Variable Speed | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Varies by dealer Sold through Pentair/Sta-Rite dealer network | $1,199.95 PoolPartsToGo price today — often found for less than the Max-E-Pro |
| Warranty | 60 days – 1 year 60-day online purchase; longer only via qualified pro installation | 5 yearsFull coverage buying online |
| Max flow rate | ~110 GPM Full-rated hydraulics | 110 GPM Tie — comparable rated flow |
| Horsepower | 1.5 HP 2.2 THP full-rated | 1.5 HP Tie |
| Speed type | Single speed | Variable speedProgrammable 1,200–3,450 RPM |
| Energy Star certified | No Energy-efficient motor, not ES certified | YesMay qualify for utility rebates |
| Voltage | 230V only | 115 / 230VDual voltage — fits either circuit |
| Noise level | Not published Sound-dampened base design | 45 dB at low speedRoughly dishwasher-quiet |
| Plumbing connections | 2" NPT ports Internal/external threads; no union kit included | 1.5" / 2" unions Union kit included |
| Weight | ~45 lbs | 41 lbs 4 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
Comparable flow rating and a standard pad footprint make this a straightforward swap (check the threaded-port note below) — and it's often found for less than the Max-E-Pro, before energy savings and rebates.
Replacing a Sta-Rite Max-E-Pro? Check these three things
The Max-E-Pro uses 2" threaded NPT ports rather than unions. The BD-VS1500 ships with 1.5"/2" union fittings — a short adapter may be needed depending on how yours was plumbed.
The Max-E-Pro runs 230V only. The BD-VS1500 wires for 230V to match your existing circuit — no rewiring needed.
Both pumps fit standard equipment pads. Verify base bolt spacing and clearance before ordering.