How does a variable speed pool pump work?

Variable speed pumps use a permanent magnet motor instead of a traditional induction motor, which allows the motor speed to be controlled. 

The permanent magnet motor is coupled with an intelligent control system that allows the speed to be varied between low and high-speed set points, and to be programmed. 

For example, the popular AstralPool Viron Variable Speed Pool Pump has a speed range of 600 RPM to 3600 RPM which allows the perfect pump speed and water flow rate to be programmed for a variety of applications in the pool such as priming, filtration, backwashing and cleaning. 

With the Viron XT pump range, the speeds can be directly programmed into the touchpad control panel or managed by a compatible, connected Viron salt water chlorinator.