Pentair makes some nice 2 speed and variable speed pumps. Why not ask him for the differential to put in the 2 speed and see for yourself. My PB talked me out of a 2 speed and now I am putting in an Ikeric multi-speed myself (after 1 year). The single speed Hayward Superpump I have is LOUD and sucks electricity (even though it is the Energy Efficient model).

While I agree with the PB that you *probably* won't use it much, what if you do? If you don't have the 2 speed, you can't even try! Since you are here on the forum, I think that automatically qualifies you as smarter (or at least more diligent) than the average pool owner, so I would think that you are willing to try to do things a little differently than the average pool owner (hey, maybe we can use APO for this one). In my case, I now realize that my PB (whom I really like, BTW), puts in the pump he does because he always has, he has them in his stock and it is just easier for him. Plus, he gets credits from Hayward for selling their "matched equipment" setups. None of those reasons help me!

Why a PB doesn't just tack on an extra $100 on top of the difference and just install the 2 speed when asked is beyond me. What does he care if you never flip the switch! Plus, in some areas, you can get a significant credit from your electrical company for installing a 2 speed (or better) energy efficient pump (you might want to check that out as well).