10 best pool motors

Pool motors, also known as pool pump motors or swimming pool motors, are an integral component of swimming pool filtration systems. These motors are responsible for powering the pool pump, which circulates water through the pool's filtration system to keep the water clean and free of debris. Here are some key points about pool motors:

  1. Function: Pool motors drive the pool pump, which pulls water from the pool, passes it through the filter to remove debris and contaminants, and then returns the clean water back into the pool. This circulation process helps maintain water clarity and sanitation.

  2. Types of Motors: There are typically two types of pool motors: single-speed and variable-speed motors.

    • Single-Speed Motors: These motors operate at a fixed speed, providing a constant flow rate. They are less energy-efficient compared to variable-speed motors but are often less expensive upfront.

    • Variable-Speed Motors: Variable-speed pool motors can be adjusted to operate at different speeds. They are more energy-efficient and can help reduce energy consumption and operating costs over time.

  3. Energy Efficiency: Variable-speed pool motors are known for their energy efficiency. They can be programmed to run at lower speeds for regular circulation and filtration and then at higher speeds for tasks like pool cleaning or water features. This flexibility can lead to significant energy savings.

  4. Maintenance: Proper maintenance of pool motors is essential to ensure they function efficiently. Regular tasks include cleaning the pump basket, checking for leaks, and lubricating moving parts if necessary. Replacing worn-out components or the motor itself may also be required over time.

  5. Compatibility: When replacing a pool motor, it's important to ensure compatibility with the existing pool pump and system.The motor's horsepower (HP) rating, voltage, and other specifications should match the original motor.

  6. Safety: Pool motors should be installed and maintained in accordance with safety guidelines and local electrical codes. Additionally, pool motors often have safety features like thermal overload protection to prevent overheating.

  7. Noise Level: The noise level of a pool motor can vary depending on the type and quality of the motor. Variable-speed motors tend to be quieter when running at lower speeds compared to single-speed motors.

  8. Longevity: The lifespan of a pool motor can vary, but proper maintenance and care can extend its life. High-quality motors may last longer and offer better durability.

  9. Energy Regulations: Some regions have energy efficiency regulations that may require pool owners to upgrade to variable-speed motors to reduce energy consumption.

  10. Installation: Installing or replacing a pool motor may require the expertise of a professional electrician or pool technician, especially if electrical wiring or plumbing adjustments are needed.

In summary, pool motors are essential components of swimming pool filtration systems, responsible for maintaining water quality and clarity. Choosing the right type of motor and ensuring proper maintenance can help pool owners operate their pools efficiently while saving on energy costs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best pool motors on the market
  

A.O. Smith ST1102 1 HP, 3450 RPM, 1.5 Service Factor, 56J Frame, Capacitor Start, ODP Enclosure, C-Face Pool Motor

A. O. Smith

Based on 94 reviews Check latest price

Product description

ST1102 1HP CFACE THD SFT STD

  • Made in United States
  • Package length : 19. 0"
  • Package width : 9. 5"
  • Package height : 9. 5"
  • Power Source Type: Wood Pellet

User questions & answers

Question: Can a pool pump motor replace a irrigation motor for a well
Answer: I no longer own this pump
Question: How loud is this motor
Answer: Not that loud at all, in my opinion. Of course it makes noise, but a smooth quite sound. You won't get bothered by it.
Question: does pump come with cable? if so, three prong twist plug
Answer: No, you have to use the power cord from the previous pump.
Question: Are all hayward ,century,a.o.smith pump motors built the same or are some motors built better? I ask because there is such a price difference
Answer: I can't really answer with certainty. My A.O. Smith motor has the Hayward Super Pump II logo on it and has been running fine. I remember wondering the same thing, I think I inquired myself and if I remember right was told the companies are one and the same now. It's been a few years back. Should be able to look that up on line somewhere. I do know I wanted the A.O. Smith from previous good experience.

Century B2854 1-1/2 HP, 3450 RPM, 8.0/16.0 Amps, 1.1 Service Factor, 56Y Frame, PSC, ODP Enclosure, Square Flange Pool Motor

Century

Based on 487 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Common applications are: pool and spa pumps, -Inch1081-Inch low service factor.

  • B2854 replaces old Century stock, B854
  • 1-1/2 HP
  • 230/115 volts
  • 3450 RPM
  • 1-1/2 HP
  • 3450 RPM
  • 230/115 volts

User questions & answers

Question: will the A. O. Smith B2854 1 1/2 HP replace the Emerson
Answer: Brand new with 1 yr warranty the last one, same brand model etc lasted for 6 years running 8hrs a day for 5 years and the last 8 months 16 hrs a day maybe 24 in summer cuz of pool issues
Question: where are the A O SMITH motors made
Answer: It is itself a smart switch. No need for smart bulbs. But i would guess it would still work.
Question: Will this replace centurian pak fab part: 8-168453-24, pr: y56y, type: cx, form: kjm, hp: 1.5 3450rpm
Answer: I can't. if you find out please let me know. Only draw back to this plug
Question: Is this a rebuilt motor, or brand new? How much warranty does the seller and/or the manufacturer provide
Answer: This model is made for dry locations. We do not recommend using outdoors.

Century UST1102 1-Horsepower Up-Rated Round Flange Replacement Motor (Formerly A.O. Smith)

Century

Based on 696 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Pool motor, 50-Degree C ambient temperature, 303 stainless steel threaded shaft.

From the Manufacturer

Century Electric (Formerly A.O. Smith) one horsepower round flange up-rated replacement motor for swimming pool pumps has a threaded shaft and fits most pumps that require a round flange motor. It operates on both 115 and 230-Volts. The UST1102 is compatible with Hayward Super, Super II, and Max-Flow pumps, Jacuzzi Magnum pumps, and Pentair Pinnacle pumps.

  • High-quality, super efficient replacement motor
  • Corrosion-resistant outer shell
  • Round flange design. RPM = 3450
  • Easy wiring access

User questions & answers

Question: does this replace the hayward super pump 1hp motor mod#C48k2n143b1,Frame56J
Answer: Yes
Question: Is it the same as a square flange
Answer: Yes the Seal plate and Motor mounting plate are in picture shown together but actually 2 pieces.
Question: does this replace the hayward super !! pump modesl K48L2N
Answer: Not sure. I just did some research on Google & found the one that fits our model. Might want to e-mail the seller directly. I'd hate to give you misinformation. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.
Question: Will this replace my A.O. Smith C48K2N143B1, 1HP, 115/230 volts, RPM 3450, FR 56J, AMB 50, ODP ENCL, Code J
Answer: I would try it

A.O. Smith B2853 1 HP, 3450 RPM, 1 Speed, 230/115 Volts, 6.6/13.2 Amps, 1.25 Service Factor, 56Y Frame, PSC, ODP Enclosure, Square Flange Pool Motor

A.O. Smith

Based on 253 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Common applications are: pool and spa pumps, -Inch1081-Inch low service factor.

  • 1 HP
  • 3450 RPM
  • 230/115 volts
  • 6.6/13.2 Amps

User questions & answers

Question: will this replace an ao smith 7-177474-01 p56Y
Answer: Primarily, what you see, is the diameter of the motor housing. 56y is larger. You can get the same power capability out of either but whether the motor will mount to your pump properly is the question. And a 1 hp with a service factor (sf) of 1.25 is not the same as a 1 hp with a service factor of say 1.65. You need to multiply the hp by the service factor for each motor to get comparable ratings. 1hp x 1.25sf =1.25; 1hp x 1.65sf = 1.65, not the same. 1hp x 1.65sf = 1.65; 1.5hp x 1.1sf = 1.65, same.
Question: Could this be used outdoor without cover from the rain
Answer: I am a Pool Pro, I personally have tried to install this very pump from XtremepowerUS. I was to be paid $75 for the install. Well it took me all day to install, and was called back in under a week because the pump stopped working. This thing was the WORST experience of my career! I WILL N E V E R ATTEMPT TO INSTALL ONE OF THESE $170 PUMPS EVER, E V E R AGAIN!
Question: Is there a difference between y 56 y and 56y
Answer: Not sure about warranty, but you need to know some electrical since it does not come with cord attached.
Question: what is the difference between 48y and 56y frame on a 1 hp 2 speed motor
Answer: This is only a one speed and it only last me about 3 days and then it blew up and water went everywhere.

GW YYN5682-L7 2 HP, 3450RPM, 1.3 Service Factor, 56Y Frame, 208-230V, Square Flange Pool Pump Motor

Based on 38 reviews Check latest price

Product description

. 2HP . 3450RPM . SF 1.3 . 56Y Frame . ODP . 208-230V . SFA 13.4-12.1A

  • High quality, Super efficient Pool Motor
  • Square flange design
  • Easy wiring access
  • Nema Standard. A direct replacement for any 2HP 56frame square flange pool motor
  • One year warranty by manufacturer GW Electric USA Inc. (909) 366-2018

User questions & answers

Question: I didn’t get any instructions for electrical hookup. Is there a diagram/instructions online
Answer: The diagram is on the nameplate. And for this single voltage 230V motor, you just need to hook up L1, L2, which are in the middle. No polarity for single phase power.
Question: is this 2 speed or single
Answer: It's single speed.

Century USQ1202 2 HP, 3450 RPM, 48Y Frame, Capacitor Start/Capacitor Run, ODP Enclosure, Square Flange Pool Motor

Century

Based on 199 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A.O. Smith USQ1202 2HP 3450 RPM 48Y 230V Frame Square Flange Pool Motor

  • 2 Hp
  • 3450 Rpm
  • 230 Volts.10.4 max Amps
  • Country Of Origin: United States

User questions & answers

Question: Will this fit a Pentair 011519 2hp
Answer: The hose I have is brown in color
Question: The photo show 3/4 hp yet the product info states 2 hp? Please advise
Answer: Hi there, that is exactly why we ordered this one & not the traditional colors in store.. It is a bronze sparkly brown color. Hope this helps
Question: Will this replace us motor k63cxetp-4821 square mount
Answer: No it is not . You would need to buy one that is specifically made for potable water.
Question: Will this motor replace an a.o. smith k48m2pa105 used on a pentair p6ea6g-207l max-e pro
Answer: Couplings are not brass. They are aluminum.

A.O. Smith SQ1102 1 HP, 3450 RPM, 1.65 Service Factor, 48Y Frame, Capacitor Start, ODP Enclosure, Square Flange Pool Motor

A. O. Smith

Based on 131 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SQ1102 SQ1102

  • 1 HP
  • 3450 RPM
  • 115/230 volts
  • 1 HP
  • 3450 RPM
  • 115/230 volts. Amps: 19.2/9.6 amp

User questions & answers

Question: Will this replace a century cat b228se- serial 31214ch, 1.0 hp 230/115 volt, amps 6.0/12.0. square bolt pattern
Answer: The B228SE is the part you should order if that is what you are currently using.
Question: Does it come with a slinger o-ring
Answer: No
Question: Would this replace a Century ST
Answer: Yes, if you look at the 4 bolt flange, they are the same. The sq and st are just upgraded ratings. Inyopools.com and poolworld.com have good articles explaining the different typs of frames. The real old pool motors had a coupling with set screws. Newer models the shaft fits thru the housing ( and spring loaded mechanical seal) and then the impeller is screwed into the end. Its a standard counter clockwise to loosen. Youll have to take the rear cover off and remove the big round canister ( one screw) which is the capacitor ( like a electrical shock absorber for starting) anf THEN you can put a 1/2” open end wrench on the shaft to hold it while unscrewing the impeller. You might need a “ strap wrench” to help( harbor freight tools) your pump should be wired for 220 volts, so make sure the switch is set to 220 and not 115, dosent matter on where the two wires connect ( be sure your circuit breaker if off while installing. The mechanical seal has a ceramic face, dont touch it, I recommend after everything is back together run the pump ( with normal water flow) for a few hrs to break it in... hope this helps
Question: i have a sta-rite max-e-glass 11 model #p4e6e-187l. is this a correct replacement
Answer: Even if it was, buy somewhere else. Mine had bearing failure in 13 months, after less than 4 total months of actual runtime

A.O. Smith SQ1202 2 HP, 3450 RPM, 48Y Frame, Capacitor Start/Capacitor Run, ODP Enclosure, Square Flange Pool Motor

A. O. Smith

Based on 48 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SQ1202 2HP SQ FLNG EE

  • Grounds & Pool Supplies/Pool Supplies
  • Made In: United States; Amps :11.2 Amp
  • Dimensions: 9 X 22.8 X 10.7
  • Country Of Origin: United States
  • power source type: Wood Pellet

User questions & answers

Question: I'm in California and my pool guy wants to replace my pool motor with this one. is this motor compliant under California's title
Answer: Inyo pools wouldn't sell this to me because I'm in California, so no.
Question: Is this compatible as a replacement for a B228SE
Answer: No. The SQ1202 has the wrong flange and more than twice the horsepower.
Question: Does this one fit fr 56j sq1202? thx
Answer: Not completely sure but I don’t think so. I think the 56j refers to the type of square flange. This motor comes was a 48y which fits a pentair filter. I would call a pool store and ask them the question to be sure.
Question: What is the difference between the USQ1202 and the SQ1202 motors, other than $50? I am looking for a replacement motor 4 a 2HP Max-E-Glas II pool pump
Answer: The SQ1202 has a Service Factor (SF) of 1.3 and the USQ1202 a SF of 1.1, otherwise they're the same. From what I understand, just make sure the total horse power (SF x HP rating) is at least as as big as the motor you are replacing.

AIPER SMART Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner, Strong Suction with 2pcs Upgraded Motors, Lightweight, IPX8 Waterproof, Auto-dock Robotic Pool Cleaner, Ideal for Above/In-ground Flat Pool Up to 538+Sq Ft

AIPER SMART

  • 【100% Cord Free, Hassle Free】No hose, no cultter cord, don't rely on your pool filter, this cordless automatic pool cleaner quickly cleans your 538sq/ft pool in around 50 minutes, no worrying about cord entanglement, cord damage, make the cleaning process smoother than other pool cleaner.
  • 【Strong Suction& Efficient Cleaning】 This upgraded pool vacuum is featured with 2pcs powerful motors to provide strong suction, also combine with 2pcs bottom brushes to attack all kinds of garbage like leafs, buds, tough dirt, debris, sands with ease to ensure a thorough cleaning of your pool.
  • 【Back to The Shore When Battery Low】Self-dock smart technology tells pool cleaner robotic go to the swimming pool shore when the battery is low or completing a working cycle, which means you can lift it to get it out of the pool and without entering the water. Definitely convenient for you to use.
  • 【IPX8 Waterproof Technology】This robotic pool cleaner's designed to work safely as it's built-in IPX8 waterproof Lithium battery. Simply plug it into any 110v outlet to recharge for the next cleaning. Takes only 3-4 hours for fully charged while others takes about 8 hours.
  • 【Compact & Easy to Use】Weights only 6.6Lbs, you don’t need to spend manual labor, just drop it in, let it go and lift it out. Also the filter tray is easy to clean, simply remove the cover, rinse the filter, and use a water hose to clean it.

User questions & answers

Question: Does it climb the walls
Answer: Dear Customer, Thanks for your question. This pool cleaner does not climb the walls, please kindly note. Best regards Jenny
Question: Is this vacuum good for above ground pool
Answer: Dear Customer, Thanks for your question. Yes, this pool cleaner is good for above ground pool cleaning. Best regards Jenny
Question: Does this pool cleaner have warranty
Answer: It comes with a one year warranty.
Question: Is it safe for an in ground pool with a liner
Answer: Yes, but it may not climb the vinyl wall

Product features

AIPER SMART Cordless Pool Cleaner!

No clutter cord, no worrying about cord entanglement, cord damage.

No pulsating hoses or pumps, for a peaceful pool environment.

Low maintenance, low cost. Save your time and labor.

Less Dirt, More Fun!

The large filter allows this pool cleaner to pick up more sands and dirt to make the most of 50 minutes of continuous cleaning, substantially reducing the amount of chemicals needed, provide healthier clean for your swimming pool.

Powerful Cleaning

With 2pcs upgraded powerful, yet efficient motors, this automatic pool cleaner can provide a deep clean, attacking and removing the dirt with ease, ensuring a clean pool for you and your families.

Always Ready to Clean

Built-in 2600mAh lithium battery to run for up to 50 minutes before recharging. This cordless robotic pool cleaner only takes around 3-4 hours for fully charged while others need 7-8 hours. Power off the cleaner before charging.

Agile & Rapid Cleaning

With moving speed approximately 16meter/min, this intelligent pool vacuum rapidly cleans all sorts of dirt & debris in your 50㎡pool in around 50 minutes, save you time and energy.

Superior Filtration System

This pool vacuum automatic also improve water circulation and act as a second filter to your pool. 2 suction doors help to suck fine dust particles and rough debris into the filter tray that can filter the water down to 2 microns for a really clean pool.

Touch & Reserve Technology

It will automatically resverse when it touches the wall. Will also stop running and automatically dock when run out of power. The buzzer will be alarming when lifting out of the pool. Press the switch to OFF and the cleaner will be shut down.

Easy to Clean the Filter Tray

The filter is big enough for normal cleaning, it traps and locks-in all sorts of dirt & debris. Also very easy to pop out & clean.Take off the filter tray and use a water pipe to clean it. Definitely save your time.

Always Easy to Handle

This pool cleaners vacuum is the lightest model in the market and you can easily remove from the pool, the package comes with a retriveing hook to pull out the cordless pool cleaner without going into the pool after completing the working cycle.

What's in the package

  • robotic pool cleaner x 1
  • power adapter x 1
  • flipper & handle x 1
  • bottom brushes x 2
  • retrieving holk x 1
  • screws x 2
  • user manual x 1

Ideal for Residential Flat Bottom Pools of All Shapes.

For Optimal Use:

  • Use on flat floor pool, especially on above ground swimming pool. Not suitable for very large in-ground pools.
  • Not able to climb walls or stairs, and also not good for cleaning algae.

Note:

  • Do not operate the cleaner when there are people in the pool.
  • Always remember to turn off the power switch when the cleaner is not in the water to protect the battery and the motor.
  • The cleaner should be stored in a cool place when charging, and not covered with anything to prevent the damage of internal electrical components caused by overheating.

Let AIPER SMART automated cleaning system do the dirty work for you ! Your AIPER SMART is designed to handle all the work and worries so you can enjoy your pool more with your families.

A.O. Smith B2852 3/4 HP, 3450 RPM, 1 Speed, 230/115 Volts, 5.4/10.8 Amps, 1.25 Service Factor, 56Y Frame, PSC, ODP Enclosure Square Flange Pool Motor

A.O. Smith

Based on 101 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Common applications are: pool and spa pumps, -Inch1081-Inch low service factor.

  • 3/4 HP.303 stainless steel shaft
  • 3450 RPM
  • 230/115 volts

User questions & answers

Question: i am not seeing an actual model #. i do see a.o. smiith century pool and spa motor 1081, part o-173840-23. should this fit
Answer: Mine was set for 115
Question: Need to replace BX2-205 (serial #) will this pump work
Answer: 1 year after purchase..
Question: Looking to replace serial 7- 187400 -20, 56CZ frame. Thanks
Answer: Yes, You should always use a new seal when replacing the motor.
Question: need to replace Pentair Superflo motor # 177474. Will this motor replace it
Answer: Both have the same size square flange. 56Y motor body diameter is 1/2" larger than 48Y48Y ships with a rubber spacer if neededBody diameter is the only difference-square flange is exactly the same48Y is common to Sta-Rite pumps|56Y is common to Pentair & Waterway pumps

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