Pentair vs Hayward: Face to Face Comparison
Author: Marcus Robertson
Comparison table
Good Choice 
Best choice 
Dimensions
20.5 x 6.5 x 8.5 inches
28 x 15.5 x 12.5 inches
Weight
22 pounds
52 lbs
Motor
1.5 HP
1.5 HP
Voltage
115 Volt
110 or 220 Volt
Operating speed
single speed
Three programmable speeds
Port Size
1 1/2"
1 1/2"
Energy savings
Real-Time clock
Best for
Above-ground and in-ground pools
in-ground pools
Good Choice
Dimensions
20.5 x 6.5 x 8.5 inches
Weight
22 pounds
Motor
1.5 HP
Voltage
115 Volt
Operating speed
single speed
Port Size
1 1/2"
Energy savings
Real-Time clock
Best for
Above-ground and in-ground pools
Best choice
Dimensions
28 x 15.5 x 12.5 inches
Weight
52 lbs
Motor
1.5 HP
Voltage
110 or 220 Volt
Operating speed
Three programmable speeds
Port Size
1 1/2"
Energy savings
Real-Time clock
Best for
in-ground pools
Pros
- The only VS pump that you can wire to either 110V (nominal voltage range) or 220V
- Ideal for new and standard pools requiring up to a 1.5-HP pump
- Can be used for old pools with copper pipes
- Easy self-installation and user-friendly digital controller
- Features a real-time, 24-hour clock
- You can program in your own run time and RPM speeds
- Energy-Star certified/Pentair’s most energy-efficient product
- Ultra-quiet TEFC motor
Pros
- Ideal for above-ground pools requiring up to a 1.5-HP pump
- Weather-resistant PermaGLass XL houses the motor
- Thermal overload protector provides self-regulating functions
- Comes with a heat-resistant and drip-proof double-sized seal
- Requires minimal upkeep: large strainer basket with clear lid, self-lubricating bearings, and shaft
Mason
Hi! I really like the Pentair SuperFlo pump. Will it be sufficient my 20 000 gal pool? Thanks!
Markus Robertson
Hello, Mason! Thank you for your question! The answer is yes, definitely. Since Pentair SuperFlo is a variable speed pump, you just need to figure out how much flow you need to turn your water over. The model is powerful enough for pools over 30 000 gallons. Real users’ reviews prove it works great.
Make Erberg
Hello! Thanks for the review! What filter system can you recommend to complement Hayward Power-Flo LX Pool Pump?
Markus Robertson
Hello, Make! Thank you so much for your question! The filter choice will depend on the size and type of your pool. However, we can say that this pump has a recommended size for most sand filters. Hayward itself recommends complementing the Hayward Power-Flo LX pool pump with the ProSeries Systems sand filter. You can find a more detailed description and buy the product here.
Dean
Hi! Is it possible to install these Pentair and Hayward pumps both horizontally and vertically or the manufacturers require one orientation only? Thanks.
Markus Robertson
Hello, Dean! Thank you very much for your question! As far as we know, these Pentair and Hayward pumps allow one way of installation with a fixed position. But with Hayward, the manual contains instructions for reorienting the discharge for those who’d like to rearrange the pump.
Rorry
Hi! Can I use any of these pumps for my above-ground pool (18ft x 48in)? Thanks.
Marcus Robertson
Hello, Rorry! Thank you very much for your question! If choosing a pump for an above-ground pool, we’d recommend trying a quieter Whisper series by Pentair. These pumps are not the most powerful, but we don’t need it in above-ground pools. An optimal combination of silent work and decent power may please you a lot.
Gran P.
Marcus, thank you for the comparison. Hayward is my personal favorite here. But I’d recommend the MaxFlo model (more powerful/up-to-date in some way and costs almost the same money).
Marcus Robertson
Hi, Gran! Thank you very much for your comment and sharing your experience with us! Indeed, Hayward also offers a slightly improved modification called MaxFlo. Our readers can find more detailed information on this and some other pumps in our Best Variable Speed Pool Pump in 2022.
Nikita
I noticed the Pentair model is twice heavier than the Hayward. Is it an important moment? Who did installation, can you help? Thanks
Marcus Robertson
Hi, Nikita! Thank you very much for your question! Yes, the weight is an important factor when it comes to the pump installation, its location and further usage. So please decide where and how you’re going to install your pump and mind it before purchasing.
James
Hi! Which model can you recommend for an inground pool (I have a 20×40 ft concrete)
Marcus Robertson
Hi, James! Thank you very much for your question! If you own a residental pool, we’d recommend choosing a 1.5-HP pump, such as the Hayward Power-Flo and the Pentair SuperFlo. They’re better suited to the pipe size, water volume, and filter design of an average inground pool.
Patrick Baker
What are the benefits of several programmable speed pumps?
Marcus Robertson
Hello Patrick! Thank you for your interest in pool pumps. Variable speed drive on pumps allows you to adjust the speed based on your needs. At low speed, you increase the durability of pool equipment, make energy and cost savings, and perform water treatment procedures to improve water quality. Conversely, you can increase the flow and enhance the performance of water equipment at high speed. Quiet operation mode is helpful while you are swimming without any disturbance. Three speeds of Pentair SuperFlo are sufficient for convenient pump operation.
Patrica
Thank you for your comparison, it is just what I was looking for. Do you know the cord size of the Hayward W3SP1580X15? I have the 10” from the socket to the pool.
Marcus Robertson
Hello Patrica! I am glad that you found helpful information. The cord size of the Hayward W3SP1580X15 is 6”.
Normand
What is the optimal hose size for a Hayward Power Flo pump?