Hayward LifeStar Variable Speed Centrifugal Pumps

A Series VS, XE & MV Models for Commercial Aquariums, Ponds, Zoos & Aquatic Life Support

Hayward LifeStar variable speed centrifugal pumps are self-priming, energy-efficient pumps designed specifically for aquatic systems and animal life support. They are used in commercial aquariums, zoos, research facilities, ponds and farms where reliable, quiet and corrosion-resistant performance is required in both fresh and salt water.

 

All LifeStar models share critical construction features that protect aquatic life and deliver long service life: glass-filled polypropylene (GFPP) corrosion-resistant housings, 316 stainless steel wetted hardware, silicon carbide / silicon carbide shaft seals, and clear-cover strainer baskets with perforated HDPE baskets that keep solids from traveling downstream. Elevated bases improve ventilation and help protect against flooding. These pumps are programmable so you can match flow to actual system demand and reduce energy use.

Common LifeStar Construction Advantages

• Ideal for sensitive aquatic environments and salt-water systems
• All wetted hardware manufactured from 316 stainless steel
• Silicon carbide / silicon carbide shaft seal suitable for fresh and salt water
• Corrosion-resistant glass-filled polypropylene pump housing
• Self-priming design
• Clear strainer lid for visual inspection without tools
• Elevated base for better ventilation and flood protection
• Perforated HDPE strainer basket

LifeStar Model Comparison

Feature	LifeStar VS (A Series)	LifeStar XE (A Series)	LifeStar MV
Horsepower	2 HP	1.85 HP & 2.25 HP	3 HP (max variable speed)
Speed Range	600 – 3450 RPM	6 selectable speeds, 1225 – 3450 RPM	600 – 3450 RPM
Motor	Single-phase TEFC, 230 V	Single-phase ODP, dual voltage 115 V / 230 V	Single-phase TEFC, 230 V
Connections	2" True Union Socket, CPVC	2" Socket × 2-½" Spigot PVC True Union	2-½" × 3" True Union CPVC Socket + 3" ANSI Class 150 flange
Control	Multi-position or detachable / wall-mount digital interface with password protection; up to 8 custom speed & timer settings; 3rd-party control compatible	Single-button programming, up to 6 selectable speeds, 24-hour schedule capability	Fully programmable multi-position or remote-mount digital interface
Strainer	Integrated high-capacity clear-lid basket	Integrated clear-lid basket	Oversized modular strainer; can be mounted remotely
Key Benefit	Full variable-speed flexibility with TEFC motor and password-protected interface	DOE-compliant multi-speed drop-in replacement; dual-voltage versatility	Higher flow / medium-head capability with remote strainer option and industrial TEFC motor

A Series LifeStar® VS Aquatic Pump – 2 HP Variable Speed

The LifeStar VS is a fully variable-speed pump (600–3450 RPM) with a 2 HP single-phase TEFC motor operating on 230 V. The multi-position or detachable/wall-mount digital control interface includes password protection and supports up to eight custom speed and timer settings on a self-contained 24-hour clock. It can also be controlled by third-party platforms. Service factor is 1.35. Ideal when you need continuous speed adjustment and a totally enclosed motor for indoor or outdoor aquatic systems.

Performance curves above illustrate typical head vs. flow at selected speeds. The digital interface lets you dial in the exact operating point required by the system, minimizing energy consumption while maintaining stable flow for aquatic life support.

 

A Series LifeStar® XE Aquatic Pump – 1.85 HP & 2.25 HP Multi-Speed

The LifeStar XE models were developed to meet U.S. Department of Energy efficiency requirements for single-phase pumps. They offer six selectable speeds (1225–3450 RPM) with simple single-button programming and a 24-hour programmable schedule. Motors are open-drip-proof (ODP), dual-voltage 115 V / 230 V, making installation more flexible. The XE is a direct drop-in replacement for many earlier LifeStar installations and includes 2" socket × 2-½" spigot PVC true-union connections. Available as model 1A3SES16XE (1.85 HP) and 1A3SES17XE (2.25 HP).

 

 

LifeStar® MV Variable Speed Medium-Head Aquatic Pump – 3 HP

The LifeStar MV delivers higher flow capability and medium-head performance with a 3 HP maximum variable-speed motor (600–3450 RPM). It features true-union 2-½" × 3" socket connections and a modular oversized strainer basket that can be removed and mounted remotely via a 3" ANSI Class 150 flange. The digital control interface is multi-position or fully detachable for wall mounting. Seals are FPM, the motor is industrial-grade TEFC, and the pump is rated for indoor or outdoor use with up to 10 ft of self-priming capability and UL 778 listing. This model is the preferred choice when higher flow rates or remote strainer placement is required.

 

 

 

Additional Technical Resources

• A Series LifeStar Catalog Page
• VS Series LifeStar Catalog Page
• IOM Manual – A Series LifeStar
• IOM Manual – VS Series LifeStar

 

Current LifeStar XE and MV data sheets contain exploded views, detailed parts lists, dimensional drawings and full performance curves. Contact us and we will provide the latest manufacturer documentation with your quotation.