Pentair is one of the oldest, most reputable, and reliable brands that produce pool equipment. When it comes to pool pumps, at the moment, it focuses on two lineups – SuperFlo and WhisperFlo.
As we can guess from the name, the SuperFlo provides greater power, while the WhisperFlo series is aimed at quieter performance. But are there more significant differences between Pentair SuperFlo vs WhisperFlo?
To answer this question, we’re going to compare six pump models from two series. Competitors cover all speed types from single speed to variable speed models and a «golden mean» option of dual speed pumps. We selected the best-selling devices with high ratings and various price levels. So, stay with us to find your perfect pool pump!
Main Differences Between the Models
Below, we’ll conduct the detailed Pentair pool pumps comparison. However, we also highly appreciate our readers’ time. So, if you cannot read the whole article, let us briefly list the main differences between the SuperFlo and WhisperFlo pumps in this section:
- Pentair SuperFlo 342001 provides three different RPM speeds to adjust to current needs. Pentair SuperFlo 340042 has two such options. All other pumps are single speed pumps.
- Only the first variable speed pump is equipped with an improved TEFC motor, which is more resistant to overloading and overheating and requires less energy. Other devices come with simpler heavy-duty motors.
- Consequently, all Pentair pool pumps differ in the horsepower rate. You can see the difference in our comparison table.
- Pentair SuperFlo 342001 is the only model here that offers smart control and customization through a built-in digital screen.
- Also, this model features a 24-hour timer. Other Pentair pumps have none.
- The WhisperFlo series pumps are distinguished by super-silent operation. They reduce the noise level thanks to a special FunnelFlo diffuser.
- In the description of some products, the manufacturer mentions NSF and Energy Star certifications.
Comparison Table
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pentair SuperFlo 342001 Variable Speed Pool Pump
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First of all, the model works in all inground pools but is especially suitable for large constructions. However, your electricity bills will stay low (or even drop) thanks to a powerful (1.5 HP), totally enclosed fan-cooled (TEFC) motor with three speeds.
A convenient digital screen allows you to set speeds and timers manually or let the pump choose the most appropriate one automatically, depending on current needs.
Thus, the SuperFlo 342001 can reduce electricity consumption by up to 80%. Also, we love its automatic current power recognition, so it can work with both popular V types.
The only drawbacks of the model are its heavy body and very high price. Let us also note that some owners of pools over 50-60 ft complain about insufficient pump power.
All in all, Pentair SuperFlo 342001 is worth its price and will certainly redeem in a couple of years. Smart and convenient control combined with durability and power does cost money. But we’d recommend it only for inground pool owners.
- suits inground pools of all sizes
- great 1.5 HP TEFC motor
- three programmable speeds
- requires 80% less electricity compared to standard single speed pumps
- easy control with a digital screen
- manual or automatic speed adjustment
- 24-hour timer included
- standard piping
- automatically adapts to your V power
- easy installation
- quiet operation
- expensive
- is not suitable for above ground pools
- heavy
Pentair SuperFlo 340039 Single Speed Pool Pump
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Being an earlier model, our pump features a simpler heavy-duty 56 square flange motor. There is no special cooling, but the highly engineered hydraulics contributes to quieter operation and longer service life.
The pump has only one standard speed, no timer or touch screen. Though all control is manual here, it’s quite simple. The unit has self-priming for quick, easy start-up. Besides, this SuperFlo also adapts to your current power.
In fact, our only losses here are no energy economy and the lack of customization. Please also mind that some users complain about possible leakages after the first year. Otherwise, the basic construction lasts as long as improved variable speed pumps and is almost twice more affordable.
We’d recommend Pentair SuperFlo 340039 to owners of medium inground pools who are satisfied with their current electricity consumption. Also, this is a decent alternative for customers on a budget.
- excellent for medium inground pools
- comes with a 1.5 HP heavy-duty 56 square flange motor
- highly engineered hydraulics for quieter and longer operation
- easy self-priming for quick start-up
- standard piping
- automatically adapts to your V power
- easy installation
- UL/cUL listed and NSF certified
- more affordable option
- is not suitable for above ground pools
- no energy saving because of one speed
- no timer
- possible leakages
Pentair SuperFlo 340042 Two Speed Pool Pump
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Our dual speed model combines simple technologies (like a 1 HP heavy-duty 56 square flange motor) with the significant economy. Two speeds allow for a 50% reduction in electricity consumption.
However, speeds are changed automatically, and we have no screens and timers for their control. This time, we also say goodbye to the adjustment to current (230V supported only).
About 10% of negative reviews are dedicated to issues with broken or wrongly operating motor. So, this is almost the only drawback that you may face after purchase and ask for a replacement.
Pentair SuperFlo 340042 is an ultimate choice for those who’d like greater energy savings than single speed pumps offer but don’t really need lots of speeds with a manual adjustment like in variable devices. Also, dual speed pumps are usually more affordable than variable. However, for us, this model is overpriced, so it’s better to wait for discounts.
- works with all inground pools
- features two speeds, thus being 50% more energy efficient
- comes with a 1 HP heavy-duty 56 square flange motor
- hydraulics technology
- standard piping
- Energy Star certified
- easy installation
- quiet operation
- overpriced (on the moment of the article posting)
- is not suitable for above ground pools
- no timer and screen for manual control
- no adaptation to your current
- please check the motor right after the purchase
Pentair 011773 WhisperFlo Single Speed
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The pump has a thermoplastic body that ensures protection from heat and corrosion. In addition, the motor frame is rustproof, the motor shaft is made of stainless steel, and bearings do not require lubrication.
Less 1.5 HP motor produces required water flow, efficiency impeller, and unique FunnelFlo diffuser minimize the turbulence and noise, making these pumps very quiet.
The extra-large strainer basket holds all pool debris extending the time between cleanings. Additionally, the polymer glass lid with a quarter-turn lock establishes easy pump inspection and maintenance.
011773 WhisperFlo pump is a perfect choice for its price and energy efficiency if you have an inground pool. It can be integrated into all cleaning pool and spa systems. However, the main minuses are not reliable protection from corrosion in complex weather conditions and weight.
- Polymer lid so simple inspection and maintenance
- Heavy-duty treads for easy connection
- Oversized strainer basket
- A motor does not require lubrication
- 2” suction and discharge ports
- Compatible with all cleaning systems
- Energy- efficient even with single speed
- Quick and easy start with a proper level of water inside
- Single-speed
- Heavy
- Not suitable for above ground pools
- No timer
Pentair WhisperFlo 011512 Single Speed Pump
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The model features all characteristics we love so much about the WhisperFlo units. They are innovative FunnelFlo diffuser, silent operation, a heavy-duty motor, simplicity, and efficiency.
However, the 011512 model produces 0.75 HP. It needs less horsepower than many other devices, which results in energy cost reduction. But we still get the same high power. Thus, being a single speed pump, it can guarantee us a certain economy.
As all WhisperFlo and SuperFlo, this pump is designed for inground pools. But this time, we noticed several users’ reviews about successful unit installation for medium above ground pools.
We consider Pentair WhisperFlo 011512 as a universal model for all pools. Here, you’ll pay more than for a standard single speed device, but extra bucks are invested in electricity saving.
- can be used both for inground and large above ground pools
- produces a modest 0.75 HP that contributes to the economy
- improves water flow and silent operation thanks to FunnelFlo diffuser
- has a heavy-duty 56 square flange motor
- easy self-priming for quick start-up
- standard piping
- automatically adapts to your V power
- easy installation
- pricy
- heavy
- no timer
Pentair WhisperFlo 011519 Single Speed Pump
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The main reason to get this modification instead of the previous goods is its ultimate performance. The pump features a 2 HP rate and will complement even the largest pools of complex construction.
importantPlease mind that the price is quite high for such power, but no other pool pump can boast an equal combination of performance and silence.
Also, the unit is one of the heaviest in our top, but it won’t affect the ease of installation.
- designed for inground pools
- a 2 HP heavy-duty 56 square flange motor
- an impressive combination of power and quiet work
- improves water flow with less energy
- easy self-priming for quick start-up
- standard piping
- automatically adapts to your V power
- easy installation
- pricy
- heavy
- once again, it won’t work with above ground pools
- no energy saving because of one speed
- no timer
Face to Face Comparison
Design and Dimensions
A powerful pool pump cannot be tiny. However, it can feature reasonable dimensions and weight for your ease of installation. Below, we put the list of all models- dimensions for your comparison:
Pentair SuperFlo 340039 Single Speed Pool Pump
- 27.5 x 12.5 x 14.8 inches
- 38.7 pounds
Pentair WhisperFlo 011512 Single Speed Pool Pump
- 27.5 x 12.25 x 15.25 inches
- 41 pounds
As you see, the SuperFlo and WhisperFlo pumps don’t differ very much in size. But we can note the variability in weight. So, we’d like to highlight Pentair SuperFlo 340039, SuperFlo 340042, and WhisperFlo 011512 as the lightest options.
Predictably, the manufacturer uses the same materials and design for all its products. Each device is made of resistant plastic with stainless metallic elements. The main color is white.
importantAll our Pentairs support only horizontal orientation. There also are two ports for hoses, and some models have additional parts like digital screens.
Motor
All our competitors use heavy-duty, high-performance, 56 square flange motors. This is the most widespread and standard option for middle-class pumps. Due to improved hydraulics, motors don’t require additional lubrication and increase water flow. The motor is aimed at longer service life.
Only one Pentair pool pump boasts a more innovative motor. The SuperFlo 342001 is the exception. This variable speed pump comes with the so-called totally enclosed fan-cooled motor or TEFC motor. Unlike the previous engine, this one doesn’t allow outside air to get inside. Instead, it has a built-in fan that blows and cools the motor.
- Firstly, this technology ensures more efficient cooling and thus increases motor life.
- Secondly, the closed construction also protects your pump against dirt, water, and unfavorable weather conditions.
Apart from that, motors mainly differ in the horsepower rate. As you can see in our Pentair SuperFlo vs WhisperFlo comparison table, we have a wide range of choices: from ф modest 0.75 HP in Pentair WhisperFlo 011512 and 1 HP in Pentair SuperFlo 340042 to the middle 1.5 HP in other SuperFlo pumps and Pentair WhisperFlo 011773. However, the maximum 2 horsepower is produced by the last WhisperFlo model.
verdictThe SuperFlo 342001 is our winner here. Despite the reputation of simple motors, the TEFC option does last longer.
And when it comes to the horsepower, even the smallest HP is enough for inground pools. The choice here depends on your preferences (especially in terms of electricity saving). But we’d prefer the balanced 1.5 HP models.
Speeds
Not only does Pentair SuperFlo 342001 boast improved motor, but it also can alter the number of rotations per minute in three ways. This pump is a variable speed model that supports three speeds. You can adjust the flow manually by choosing any RPM rate from 300 to 3450 points. The manufacturer and experienced users recommend setting standard 1400, 2200, and 3450 RPM as the optimal speeds for large pools.
The SuperFlo 340042 is similar to the previous device as it also changes speeds. However, here we deal with a dual speed pump that supports 1725 and 3450 RPM speeds. The main difference is the lack of speed adjustment. The pump is fully independent and adapts rotations automatically without your participation.
All other pumps of your comparison are single speed models. It doesn’t mean they’re weaker as all ensure the same maximum 3450 RPM. But since we have only one speed, the pump doesn’t allow any customization, which results in a minimal energy economy.
verdictThe verdict is that Pentair SuperFlo 342001 is the best option for large pools, especially if you also use energy-consuming accessories like heaters, pool cleaners, fountains, spas, etc. Pentair SuperFlo 340042 is a more affordable alternative, by the way.
Energy Consumption
Only several speeds and the opportunity to alter them ensure visible electricity savings. That’s the main pro of variable speed pumps.
The more speeds you have, the greater results you can reach. So, Pentair SuperFlo 342001 with three speeds and the TEFC motor consumes 80% less energy compared with standard single speed pumps. Its dual speed brother, Pentair SuperFlo 340042 can cut your spending by 50%.
The left SuperFlo and WhisperFlo models cannot adjust to current water flow and change their consumption. That’s why they work steadily but always with one power. For many users, it’s not a problem at all, but pumps will cost you the same money each month.
verdictAs in the previous section, the SuperFlo variable and dual speed pumps are our favorites. No other models can offer the same economy level, and their usage is more profitable than single speed pool pumps.
Control
verdictIn variable speed models, digital screens are rather a necessity than a luxury. The owners of single speed models don’t need it. But it’s a timer where they really lose a lot.
Basket
Luckily, all Pentair pumps come with their own filter baskets to collect large debris. The units are called oversized strainer baskets, which means they were enlarged compared with previous pumps.
Pentair doesn’t provide official information on the basket capacity. But we can say it’s really huge and will last for many sessions before you need to empty it. Moreover, monitoring is easier thanks to a see-through lid. You don’t have to open the bin each time to check its filling.
As we said, baskets mainly deal with large debris to protect the pump motor and inner parts from clogging and breakage. When it comes to fine particles, you’d better get a separate professional pool filter.
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Best Pool Pump?
Now, when we got acquainted with Pentair pools pumps, we understand the most important characteristics of these devices. Anyway, in this section, we’d like to briefly repeat the crucial moments to mind to buy a perfect pool pump.
- First of all, consider your pool type and size. Pumps for inground and above ground pools differ just as much as pumps for small and large pools.
- Also, the HP and number of speeds significantly influence pump performance. Let us also add here a motor, the quality of which is crucial both for pump power and durability. Altogether, these three factors are the basics of any pump and a key to your further energy savings.
- Experts recommend paying attention to the GPM rate. The number of gallons per minute will vary depending on your pool size and pump speeds available, but there is also a scale of maximal and minimal points your device can provide. So if you choose a suitable pump, you’ll get the necessary circulation. But a wrong device will cause some problems.
- Finally, we’d recommend you check the pump materials. Almost all models have plastic cases, but it’s quality may vary. It’s better to choose options resistant to sun rays, moisture, hits, and other impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pentair SuperFlo vs WhisperFlo: what is the best pool pump?
Despite the evident similarity, both series have a couple of crucial differences. The SuperFlo pumps are more powerful yet more energy-efficient. The WhisperFlo models provide close performance but work almost silently. That’s why we cannot choose one winner here. Do Pentair SuperFlo and WhisperFlo pool pumps work with sand and cartridge filters?
How to adjust a speed on Pentair SuperFlo variable speed pool pump?
In case of any difficulties, please read the user manual.
How long do Pentair SuperFlo and WhisperFlo pumps last?
Conclusion
That’s it! We’ve reviewed the most popular Pentair pool pumps and now can conclude which model suits your needs.
- Pentair SuperFlo 342001 Variable Speed Pool Pump is certainly the most energy-efficient and smart pump of our comparison. That’s why it becomes our choice.
- Pentair SuperFlo 340042 Two Speed Pool Pump is so close to the previous model. This is a more affordable but very similar alternative to the variable speed device. So, if you’re on a budget but would like to get some energy savings later, try this model.
- The final product of the Pentair SuperFlo series, the 340039 Single Speed Pool Pump, lacks the smart functions and electricity benefits of its brother. But it is the most affordable pool pump in our rating, including the WhisperFlo goods.
So, when it comes to the WhisperFlo themselves, they slightly lose to the SuperFlos, in our opinion. However, if you need a silent operation, this is a reason to get one of the pumps.
- Pentair WhisperFlo 011519 Single Speed Pump is the most powerful model of the whole comparison and will deal even with the largest pools.
- On the contrary, Pentair WhisperFlo 011512 Single Speed Pool Pump is the simplest. But it’s perfect for medium inground pools. Moreover, this is the only device that is compatible with above ground pools.
- And Pentair WhisperFlo 011773 Single Speed Pump is a true golden mean both in performance and price.
Hi! I’m Markus Robertson, and water is my passion.
Five years ago, I graduated from the University of California-Los Angeles and was going to become a professional marine biologist. However, my fate had other plans for me, and due to family problems, I had to find a more stable and well-paid job. I had only one wish for my job to be connected with water.
During this period of my life, I worked as a sales manager at Olympic Pool & Spa Supplies. The job helped me learn everything about swimming pools and related pool equipment, as well as how to choose the best option and what to pay attention to.
Having worked there for three years, I decided to start my own blog about pools, where I can tell people about the best new pool equipment models and share my knowledge and experience.
A marine biologist by education, I became a pool blogger by trade. Now I’m glad I can help the guests of my store and the visitors of my blog know a lot of exciting things about pools, their types, best pumps and filters, necessary equipment maintenance, and so on.
I welcome all people who want to choose a proper basin and the stuff to my blog! Hope you’ll find this information interesting and useful!
Which filter do you recommend to complement the SuperFlo? Thank you)
Hi, Nicolas! Thank you very much for your question! In our opinion, sand filters are the most universal yet efficient option for Pentair pumps. You can pick up the best model in our Sand Filters vs Cartridge Filters – Best Pool Filters Review.
Do these pumps weather proof? Do I need to cover it somehow if I gonna put it outside?
Hi, Ron! Thank you very much for your question! All Pentair pumps stand various weather conditions including rains. That’s why users don’t have to cover them. However, low temperatures and freezy weather can harm your pump. That’s why the manufacturer recommends installing them in specially equipped locations.
Thanks for the comparison! What is Energy Star certifications you mentioned?
Hi, Daniar! Thank you very much for your question! Energy Star Certification (or ESC) is a program aimed at improving standards of energy consumption and energy efficiency of electrical devices. The program was initiated by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE). If your product has ESC label, that means it meets new standards of safety and efficiency.