Black & Decker Variable Speed Pool Pump Unboxing and Review | How to Install a Swimming Pool Pump

[@AquanutAcademy]

We put lots of time into this project. Let me know what you think.

[@qwerther44]

Thank you for the review. However, after watching, I have one comment. Maybe I missed it, but with a coupon code (pool parts to go frequently run sales) you can get a B&D pump for about half of a Pentair. I think that deserves mentioning multiple times.

[@charlesberry8835]

Love my pump it has saved me a lot of money on utilities

[@billpaul8803]

I bought one n installed it myself n used Nuprene rubber coupling to ensure no more pipe cutting when I need to replace it next time. This BnD 1.5hp VS pump works great , efficient n quiet at less than 50 % of total vs big name. Even if I replace it every 10 years, it is worth it g8vdn it carries 5 years of warranty vs 2 years from big name that must go through an installer.

[@AidanSkoyles]

this guy understands the calculus. well done sir.

[@robertschussler6648]

We are 6 months into our B&D 1 1/2 HP Variable Speed Pump install. 15 X 30 Kidney shaped pool with 2 Skimmers and Suction-Side Sweep. This pump does a great job @ 3000 RPM with sweep on and @ 2500 without the sweep running. We were unable to take advantage of the lower RPM options due to the high volume of leaf matter falling from the adjacent Cypress Head. At lower RPM's it is almost silent. Fairly easy to customize run times and speed. I can create a River-Rapid @ 3450. Longevity to be determined. Good video!

[@AquanutAcademy]

Thank you

[@revealingfacts4all]

salt water pool? mine has a chlorinator and you simply can't just drop the RPM without making sure you still have enough flow for the chlorinator to still work properly. If you have chlorinator, did you make changes to it then?

[@janicegetz6539]

I have had the B&D pump for over a year and love it

[@cksanford9897]

Nicely done video, Just the explanation I needed to make a informative decision not only between single and variable pump, but my choice of B&D. Thanks.

[@AquanutAcademy]

@@cksanford9897 you're welcome

[@Lisa8478]

You answered my question on if the control face plate rotates. Now I don't have to read it upside down. Thanks for the info.

[@AquanutAcademy]

You are welcome

[@darinsmith9468]

The criticism you had of the diffuser (2 small bolts & a few detents) would also apply to that Pentair Intelliflo. It is the same wet end as a WhisperFlo & I've rebuilt mine several times. The diffuser & impeller setup was very reminiscent of the Whisperflo. Even the basket looks like it may be the same one. This is interesting to see. I'm kind of soured on B&D from a power-tool and household appliance brand. The proof will be in whether they can hold up. But a lot of the big-name stuff doesn't really hold up that well either, so... While the use of a screwdriver through the fan shroud is "different"--I'd say it's a nice innovation so long as you don't damage the fan. It eliminates having to hold backup on the shaft--the screwdriver and motor frame do that for you. I think this is a re-labeling of a pump someone else built. I expect to see lots of that kind of thing as the industry adjusts.

[@poolmonkey7479]

What are you looking at? 🤣 Nothing is Whisperflo. The crap on YT.

[@nezihvarisligil7140]

this video helped me a lot! I have a 1hp single speed pump for the ~ 18x30x6 pool and the electricity bill is outrageous ! I am about to purchase a 1.5hp B&D which should help lower the bill immensely!

[@AquanutAcademy]

You are welcome

[@OpaqueLizard]

Appreciate the tear down, and look it may not be scientific but it gets the point across. Thanks!

[@AquanutAcademy]

Thank you

[@akaria930]

Regarding the automation: the manufacturer does make a pretty basic relay setup that replaces the stock controller. The companies that sell this under the names circupool and calimar have them and pool parts to go will have them in the next few months

[@AquanutAcademy]

Cool, thanks

[@PoolMarketing]

Solid product tear down, nice work Derrick.

[@AquanutAcademy]

Thank you very much!

[@vikingtu]

This is the best video on this pump I have watched!!! I just received this pump today. Did you have any issues threading the electronic connection to the electronic box on the side of the pump. I was using a southwire 1/2" nylon "liquid-tight" fitting type B and it was it the thread was not compatible. Any thought would be appreciated.

[@AquanutAcademy]

I had no issues at all with that. I would try a different fitting. Thanks for the kind words.

[@vikingtu]

FYI, I did get correspondence from the pump manufacturer (they don't answerer the phone). The tech said that on occasion the machine that threads that connection at the electrical box on the pump becomes warn and suggested using a thread chaser or similar. I returned the pump as I was concerned about the warranty being voided@@AquanutAcademy

[@AquanutAcademy]

@@vikingtu Thanks for the feedback. That is good information to have.

[@ricardocuevas7815]

Good review and I appreciate the tear down. However it did seem like you were nit-picking to find things "wrong" with the pump. For example all the nuts not being 9/16th. You said you won't be able to take it off because it wasn't a 9/16th? Couldn't you just used a bigger/smaller wrench to get it off? I'm guessing you don't just have 1 size wrench? I purchased this pump and replaced my Pentair SuperFlo. I also had it professionally installed by my local pool store which did a great job. By the time I purchased PVC, glue, hack saw and other supplies I almost broke even had I installed myself.

[@AquanutAcademy]

Yes, I was nit-picking. Yes, I could have used the bigger wrench but I did not have one at that time. I also should not have needed one. Thanks for the info.

[@Wingnut353]

@@AquanutAcademy It really is a nit pick on the wrong thing though... I could care less what bolts they use and in fact I'd rather they used larger bolts as they did than under sizing just so you can have a little convenience. In any case... it would be much better if they designed it to last a long time with virtually no maintenance and any issue that prevents that is something much more worthy of nit picking (like the 2 screws on the diffuser you mentioned)

[@AquanutAcademy]

@@Wingnut353 the bolts are basically the same size it's the head of the bolt that was the issue. And all of those bolts are oversized.

[@CajunCoding]

Great Video -- Thanks for the breakdown!

[@AquanutAcademy]

Thanks

[@dcheetham8603]

What's also compelling is the 5-year warranty! That's making a statement...

[@AquanutAcademy]

Sure does

[@fixitwithjake]

Best Review out there from a respected pool expert! I like the cap reveal at @10:23 works great on pumps

[@AquanutAcademy]

Thank you very much sir. That means a lot coming from another tradesmen.

[@risensoninthesky832]

I just replaced my Pentair Intel, a flow one and a half horsepower pump with a 2 hp Black & Decker variable speed. I was ready to purchase a new pentair which lasted me about six years and then the bearings were going out and it was getting very very noisy I was told replacing the bearings would only last about a year so I decided against doing that, bottom line is the reason that I bought the black and decker over the Pentair is the warranty on Black & Decker is five years. The Pentair has a warranty of 2 year. when I’m spending that kind of money for a pool pump I want to know that if something goes wrong I have a decent warranty. The question will be how Black & Decker will service that warranty.

[@AquanutAcademy]

You talk to them and they send you the parts

[@tojofay]

Why would a pro NOT install the B&D pump? Why not mention the warranty? Your prejudice weakens the review-"wanted not to like it". What is the big deal about nut size?

[@AquanutAcademy]

Hi and thanks for the comment. Pros normal do not install products they don't sell. This is for insurance and liability reasons. At the time of the recording I didn't know what the warranty was or how good it was. I do now and another video is coming out. The different nut sizes would only matter to service pro. Thanks again

[@tojofay]

@@AquanutAcademy Thanks, I'm really interested to see if this pump has legs.

[@okharren]

Great review! I need to replace my Intellipro VS3050 that has literally run continuously for 15 years but I'm choking on the price of a new one. What is your confidence level on getting parts for this pump or the Blue Torrent equivalent?

[@AquanutAcademy]

The pump you have is the best there is. I would not downgrade.

[@kellykindopp3164]

Hello, thank you very much for doing this video, I was able to disassemble the pump no problem. You seem very knowledgable so I thought I would ask for your advice. I have had my pump for 1 year and it started not turning on in the morning. Then it would not go to the fill 3450 rpm, it gets to 3000 and shuts off... I took it all apart and it all looked good, nothing in there at all. I also flushed out my lines just in case but everything looked clean. To vacuum properly you need the 3450 so I am looking to throw this in the garbage after 1 year unless you have any ideas what might be the issue. I live in rural Mexico so there is no expert help here at all. Thanks in advance if you have any ideas. Great video

[@AquanutAcademy]

That Sounds like a warranty issue. I would totally contact the company to get it repaired under warranty.

[@kellykindopp3164]

@@AquanutAcademy Thanks for the response... I live in rurla Mexico so warranty work isn't happening... I think I will buy a Pentair... I appreciate your response.

[@philindeblanc]

@@kellykindopp3164 warranty work through mail. Can you receive mail? If not, you would have the same issue with any brand.

[@billpaul8803]

😂I bought 1.5 hp variable speed B&D pump a few months ago n I stall it myself replacing my broken Pentair Whisperflo. It works great , much better than I expected with programmed speed variations over 16 hours daily schedule that I don't need to change n it is so quiet ! Only problem during installation is the thread at wiring box 1/2" NTP needed to be retaped. Temporarily, I used a 1/2 sprinkler plastic riser to fit n taped to prevent water Getting in when rain.

[@kevinconrad692]

Good job on the review. Thank you

[@AquanutAcademy]

Thank you very much.

[@hughclarke8504]

Great knowledge. I have a question. I have a 12500 gallon pool with a hot tub. Currently, I have a 1 1/2 hp pump on now, if I upgrade to a 2 hp will that be too much? Should I stick with a 1 1/2?

[@AquanutAcademy]

If it is a VS pump, 3hp is ok.

[@TrueStrategicEyes]

Do one on the neptune variable speed pump

[@MACHSS7]

I noticed that you needed no plumbing changes between your Pentair and the B&D. Did your connectors actually fit perfectly, no leaks? I have a Hayward TriStar 950 which directly interchanged with my old Hayward EcoStar. I was surprised that I needed no plumbing changes. I wonder if a B&D VS Pump would fit my TriStar plumbing as nicely as it fit your Pentair?

[@AquanutAcademy]

It fit perfectly with no leaks

[@brianpevehouse1150]

Do you happen to know if I can get a wifi module to control the pool pump remotely? If not what brand can I buy to do this

[@AquanutAcademy]

Not on this pump. Buy a Jandy or Pentair.

[@carywendt1537]

Thanks, great review!

[@AquanutAcademy]

Thank you.

[@robertwodnicki5597]

one complaint., No clock/time memory after power outage

[@markavrin2651]

Thanks for the info and technical review. Im also a big fan of the Intelliflo pumps but Pentair is telling dealers it will be June 2023 (almost a year) for production to be available again. As such, those with any stock are charging 2500 or more for Intelliflo's. This changes the game for me, and how I ended up checking out the B&D. This seems like a nice alternative for less than 1/2 the current price. Interested in how efficient it is vs. the Intelliflo, noise comparison, and more comparison on the features - # of programs etc. Also, I read on a review somewhere that the main housing is plastic, is this true ?

[@AquanutAcademy]

The main housing is a polypropylene composite the same as all of the other pumps so yes

[@jws6076]

I just purchased this Pool pump. First of all it’s quiet and seemed to have good suction however it has a major design flaw. The strainer basket is too small and does not seal tight to the inlet port. There is a small gap between the two mating surfaces of the basket and inlet which allows leaves and debris to get past the strainer lodging it in the impeller rendering the pump useless. It looses nearly all of its suction and the leaves are difficult to remove. I have to do this everyday for it to work properly. This was never ever a problem for my Hayward Pump that I had for 20 years. The basket needs to be redesigned to seal tight. I took a small automotive hose approximately 3/8” in diameter and zip tied it to the back of the strainer around the top back edge to try and put pressure on the front of the basket to seal tight against the inlet but it still has a small gap. This is very disappointing and I will most likely have to spend another $1500 on a Hayward or Pentair pump that works properly. Not Happy!

[@AquanutAcademy]

It does seal tightly. You have something wrong.

[@jws6076]

@@AquanutAcademy Nope! I will get a video later and attach it. It’s not rocket science.

[@AquanutAcademy]

@jws6076 that would be great

[@ROBERTLUCIAn]

Great work, what's the noise level compared to other vari speed pumps? I bought an identical one and will be installing soon.

[@AquanutAcademy]

It's about the same. very low

[@AquanutAcademy]

ad thank you

[@justinparrott2006]

If you set a schedule for 24 hour run and then turn breaker off then back on, pump doesn’t come on? Why does the schedule not start back up? Otherwise love this pump.

[@AquanutAcademy]

Good question, it may be a safety thing. sorry I don't know. I'm not sure why you would want to turn it off with the breaker.

[@sonicx98]

Great video Derrick. Do you have any idea if you can buy the motor of this pump from any parts supplier?

[@AquanutAcademy]

Thanks. You can buy it from the link in the description.

[@philindeblanc]

Blue Torrent makes it.

[@auto117666]

3:28 The piano makes me think he was about to share a traumatic story about his childhood and how he was not easily able to get to a bolt.

[@teddywalkerjr.9758]

The black remote wire that you unplugged from the Intelliflow pump, where did you connect it to on the black and decker pump?

[@AquanutAcademy]

I did not Connected to the black and decker pump. The black and decker has no ability to be controlled by an automation system.

[@jeffhighland7806]

I think they have an adapter that allows integration to building automation.

[@kevinturner8367]

Can the control panel be detached from the pump and wired in at a different location? Would be nice to remove the control panel & run wiring to my back patio so I don't have to walk all the way to the pump to make changes.

[@AquanutAcademy]

Not at this time. Maybe they will come out with a kit later.

[@MrWildwilly48]

Do not see the need to take off lid of control panel , you could have just pulled the motor away from the housing or am i missing something?

[@AquanutAcademy]

@MrWildwilly48 Yeah, it looks like it. This was a full review and breakdown. If something goes wrong, you replace it.

[@seanceschia-realestatebrok4466]

I just installed a 3hp version it runs great BUT I hate the it does not communicate with intellicenter! I will have to replace now with Pentair brand!

[@AquanutAcademy]

Yes. Sorry about.

[@SeanCeschia]

@@ccs8837 that's awesome man thank you so much for the link, I will go ahead purchase it today.

[@aagalani]

Great video. Are the parts more expensive than the parts for other well known brands? I have a single speed pump and the next time it breaks down, I was thinking about replacing it with this B&D.

[@AquanutAcademy]

Parts price is on par with other brands. Thanks for the sub!

[@andygalani5416]

@@AquanutAcademy I have a pool heater and planning on installing SWCG. What would be the minimum speed for those things. I have a 12k pool with spillover spa.

[@AquanutAcademy]

@@andygalani5416 unfortunately you will have to see what that will be on your pool. Every pool is different.

[@ralphcarbone299]

Looking to replace my 1 1/2 HP single speed Hayward pump. Is the 2HP better than the 1 1/2 HP have 1 1/2" piping... 2 skimmers 4 outlets

[@AquanutAcademy]

I would go with the 3hp. Just know that you should never need to ramp it all the way up.

[@Limitedition182]

How has the Black and Decker been running?

[@AquanutAcademy]

Very well

[@Xhalegaming]

Max RPM on the black n decker is 3450 btw

[@iceymalka209]

I have a single speed Pentair. Super simple pool no bubblers etc however it has the old school yellow timer. If I remove the start stop on the yellow timer and just leave it on with the switch does the black and decker pump override the schedule etc with its screen?

[@AquanutAcademy]

If you remove the timer pins, the pump will control the Schedule.

[@iceymalka209]

@@AquanutAcademy thank you for the reply this def helps in guiding my decision 😃

[@3tdadgaming]

Great job

[@justinhagan3381]

Can i install this pump as a booster pump inbetween my filter and heater ?

[@AquanutAcademy]

My 1st thought is no. But I would need a ton more info.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Any chance I could get your opinion on a clicking sound that is coming from (motor side) of my newly (Jan 2022) installed B&D pump? Same one you reviewed in this video. The frequency of the sound is consistent with the speed of the motor. So the slower the motor the slower the clicking. Its definitely coming from inside the motor and has been happening about 2 weeks now. I did check to see if it was from slight movement or vibration but its not. I'm 99% sure its in the motor, maybe the fan. The best I could describe is a consistent dull clicking sound. I could always send you a short video if you had a email or number. Its unlike any sounds I can find online in my troubleshooting searches. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated!

[@AquanutAcademy]

Yeah, send it to [e-mail]

[@CajunCoding]

Any update on this? I've heard similar coming from my 3HP B&D.... but seems to happen more when it's been raining, and I can only hear it at lower speeds...?

[@AquanutAcademy]

@@CajunCoding some of that is common on VS pumps. But you can always call them up and ask about your pump.

[@donaldschultz1777]

At the 7 minute mark you are complaining about the motor bolts not being 9/16" wrench size. What kind of technician are you? Just reach into your toolbox and grab a 15mm or 5/8" wrench (whichever is the right size) and remove them. Also, the upper 2 long bolts that you complained about being too long, they don't need to be pulled out. As long as they are unscrewed all the way, you can still remove the pump housing. The bolts will just be hanging out there until you put it back together.

[@AquanutAcademy]

LOL pool technicians only carry a few sizes that fit nearly everything we work on. I also didn't have any of my tools on me here.

[@allinkoi]

Do you know if the internals are stainless steel?

[@AquanutAcademy]

Yes they are. SS is standard for all pumps. But bad water chemistry can ruin them regardless.

[@gerardoortega1707]

I need a VP for my pool . What are your recommendations? Best /reliable

[@AquanutAcademy]

with no information on your pool I cant really tell you. This one is very good. You cant go wrong with Pentir or Jandy

[@RevR0ach]

Does it come with power cord attached? If so, how long is it and what type of plug? I neither noticed a power cord during the unboxing nor saw you wire one up.

[@AquanutAcademy]

No, this model is not for above ground pools. This one needs to be hard wired in. The above ground unit has a wire.

[@jorgevasquez8580]

I just installed the pump a month ago and just recently I tried starting it and the dispaly just clicks on and off. Any help?

[@AquanutAcademy]

Yes, call poolpartstogo.com they have an excellent support team.

[@jorgevasquez8580]

@@AquanutAcademy ok I will do that thank you

[@SoftWashFactory]

what is the psi on the black & decker

[@AquanutAcademy]

That depends on way too many factors.

[@Nolapoolguru]

Thanks homie ;)

[@AquanutAcademy]

You're welcome.

[@weipingshi77845]

My old pump was controlled by a Jandy AquaLink controller, therefore if I replace it with a Black & Decker pump, the power supply will be on and off all the time. Will the Black & Decker pump still work?

[@AquanutAcademy]

Yes, how ever you will not be able to control the pump with the AquaLink. I recommend going back with a Jandy VS pump

[@thomasrodwick2066]

My old Pentair pump is controlled by a Jandy Aqualink controller. I am hoping to replace it with a B & D pump. You previously said the Jandy Aqualink would not be able to control the B&D pump because it goes on and off.. What if I program the Aqualink to run the pump 7/24?

[@AquanutAcademy]

I would highly recommend a Jandy variable speed pump. The reason is because you can control the speeds via your controller. If that's not important to you and it's definitely not Critica. Then you can Have a licensed electrician wire the Black and Decker pump directly up to the breaker. If you have any other pumps That are running on the aqualink system you will need to make sure that you have your schedules running correctly.

[@ishmael-rupp9720]

Just attempted to install this pump but after wiring it up i find i am getting no power on the display. Checked voltage on wires and have 240 but nothing comes on.

[@AquanutAcademy]

Odd, call poolpartstogo. They are the manufacturer.

[@lorivanboven1630]

Im having a similar issue. How did you resolve it?

[@viper04af]

is it quiet? ours is indoors and if the pump is loud i have to turn it off to watch a movie or sleep lol (its behind insulated walls but still loud is loud)

[@AquanutAcademy]

Yes it it.

[@jayk8659]

Dude now you are measuring pubic hair heights. This is Awesome pump. Stop measuring cm and inch on your fountains. It do a great job to circulate water and run good vacuum

[@AquanutAcademy]

😂🤣😂🤣

[@poolmonkey7479]

🤣….would fire any service account where one shows up

[@ruthjordan527]

Does anybody know what size the pool hoses are on a Coleman 90445E filter pump

[@AquanutAcademy]

They are custom made by Coleman. They are not a standard size. But I have a link to the conversion kit on my above ground pool equipment upgrade video.

[@marklehnert9208]

Does the B&D offer the automation connection to a Pentair EasyTouch?

[@AquanutAcademy]

No. There's no automation hook up for the Black & Decker pump at all.

[@CajunCoding]

@@AquanutAcademy ​ @Aquanut Academy There is a specific keypad upgrade (replaces existing keypad) available for separate purchase that can integrate with automation controllers via relays (much like the Pentair VS speed pump allows)... and it's very reasonably priced.

[@AquanutAcademy]

@@CajunCoding no word yet

[@tonysofla]

AC-to-DC-to-3phase converters cost money, have you tried the 1.6HP (1200watt) solar pump that does DC to 3phase directly and the cost of panels will have a ROI of 4years as it's the cheapest possible way to get in on solar: no battery, no timer, no permit if you mount four JA-JAM54-S31-385MR panels in series on the ground. The Only panel on earth that will not go over 150VOC with 4 in series and still gets 1400watt? probably.

[@AquanutAcademy]

I would try it. But so far there are no solar options that actually work. I just got back from a few trade shows. I would be willing to give it a go. But it simply doesn't exist yet

[@tonysofla]

@@AquanutAcademy There is, Vevor 1200 and 900watt. I think I found the perfect 4pk series solar panels for the 1200watt pool pump, the JA-JAM54-S31-385MR from A1solar as it has unusual low 30.46 V voc, so no y-cables needed.

[@DIYReality]

Question. I'm replacing my single spd 2HP pentair superflow. I also have a Pentair IC60 Salt Gen. Both are on a single timer that operates power to both that runs at two intervals during the day. Mornings & a few hours in the evenings (skip peak hours) If I drop in this B&D 2HP can I do the same where the B&D is generally in a manual instead of it's pre-timed schedules? I'd like this to run say 1900 everytime it powers on and I can't have this thing turning off while there's still power at the IC60 from the timer.. thanks in advance. Subscribed!

[@AquanutAcademy]

So, I would put the 3hp. And yes run it on its own built in timer 24/7. Run it at different speeds during a 24hr period.

[@claudefowler5147]

Looks like an old Hayward pump that was rebuilt and remanufactured

[@poolmonkey7479]

No it doesn’t..nothing like any Hayward ever made

[@julmartinez101]

Why won't a professional install it for me??

[@AquanutAcademy]

Most professionals don't install items they don't sell. If they are really good at there profession they don't even has time.

[@johnkutsch5155]

Great video.. be fair b&d 2.0hp to your 3.0 hp...cost is 2x.... lots a margin for store, installer and company. Blue torrent low cost direct to DIY market. Just installed mine. 100% satisfied.

[@mikem4201969]

Seems like you were just finding problems with pump. Doesn’t look like you know what you’re doing.

[@AquanutAcademy]

You must be new to the internet and reviews. You are supposed to find problems with the product you are reviewing. As far as myself, I have 21 years in the industry and many certifications. Thanks for watching

[@Laaight]

This pump sucks! Always messing up on me! Total regret

[@jedcarson3769]

Seeing that you put that pump on a complete pentair system with screenlogic makes me cringe.

[@SquareLimit]

I’m a pool guy. These things are inconsistent garbage! Annoying to program.. prime issues after a year or so.. I refuse to put one of these on my customers pools. I also refuse to work on one. I HATE THESE PUMPS. Pentair > everything else

[@Mr1dvsbstrd]

Looks like a Harris VS knock off .

[@AquanutAcademy]

Do you mean Hayward?

[@johnvrabec9747]

The pump plate bolt issue is a deal breaker for me already. I want easier, not harder.

[@lenjames]

No thanks. Parts only available from one store...good luck with this one.

[@AquanutAcademy]

lol

[@poolmonkey7479]

It’s a disposable pump..not servicable

[@WWPlaysHoldem]

No reason to remove bolt completely.

[@Mattyv_]

support your loacal pool stores dont get this crap

[@poolmonkey7479]

It’s crap, alright

[@revealingfacts4all]

"not a part a professional is going to put on for you..." lol, that's because "professionals" don't install pumps - they design them.

[@AquanutAcademy]

Grab a dictionary.

[@revealingfacts4all]

@@AquanutAcademy grab a clue