Speck BADU Gamma 29 1.30kW Three-Phase Pool Circulation Pump 🌊
Transform your pool’s filtration system with the Speck BADU Gamma 29, a premium German-engineered circulation pump designed for commercial and large residential swimming pools. Featuring whisper-quiet operation, advanced hydraulics, and robust construction, this 3-phase powerhouse delivers exceptional performance and reliability season after season.
The Speck Gamma 29 isn’t just another pool pump—it’s a precision-engineered filtration solution that combines cutting-edge technology with uncompromising quality. Whether you’re maintaining a busy community pool, a luxury hotel facility, or a large private pool, this pump delivers the consistent, powerful circulation your pool demands while operating at noise levels that won’t disturb your environment.
✅ Ultra-quiet operation – Enjoy your pool area without pump noise disruption
✅ Premium materials – Glass-fiber reinforced components for exceptional durability
✅ Optimised hydraulics – Enhanced water flow efficiency reduces energy consumption
✅ Self-priming design – Easy installation up to 3m above or below water level
✅ Complete electrical isolation – Motor shaft never contacts pool water for safety
✅ Salt water compatible – Suitable for pools up to 0.5% salt concentration (5g/L)
✅ Made in Germany – Legendary Speck quality and engineering precision
🏊 Perfect Pool Sizing & Applications
The BADU Gamma 29 is ideally suited for medium to large swimming pools requiring professional-grade circulation and filtration.
Recommended Pool Sizes
| Pool Type | Maximum Volume | Ideal Application |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Pools | Up to 145m³ (32,000 gallons) | Large private pools, luxury residential installations |
| Commercial Indoor | Up to 120m³ (26,400 gallons) | Hotel pools, fitness center pools, therapy pools |
| Community Pools | Up to 145m³ (32,000 gallons) | Apartment complex pools, small community facilities |
| Natural Pools | Up to 100m³ (22,000 gallons) | Swimming ponds, eco-pools with natural filtration |
Pool Volume Examples:
- 10m x 5m x 1.5m (average depth) = 75m³ ✅ Perfect fit
- 12m x 6m x 1.8m (average depth) = 129m³ ✅ Excellent performance
- 15m x 7m x 1.6m (average depth) = 168m³ ⚠️ Consider upgrade or dual-pump system
💡 Pro Tip: For optimal water clarity, your entire pool volume should circulate through the filter every 4-6 hours. The Gamma 29’s 29m³/h flow rate circulates a 145m³ pool every 5 hours—perfect for crystal-clear water.
⚙️ Technical Specifications
Power & Performance
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Motor Power (P2) | 1.30 kW |
| Voltage | 400V (3-phase, Y/Δ configuration) |
| Alternative Voltage | 230V (star/delta connection) |
| Maximum Flow Rate (Qmax) | 35.0 m³/h (7,700 gallons/hour) |
| Technical Flow Rate (techQ) | 29 m³/h (6,380 gallons/hour) |
| Maximum Head (Hmax) | 16.6 m (54.5 feet) |
| Technical Head (techH) | 8 m water column |
| Pump Type | Self-priming circulation pump |
| Priming Capability | Up to 3m above or below water level |
Construction & Materials
| Component | Material | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Pump Casing | PP GF 30 (30% glass-fiber reinforced polypropylene) | Exceptional strength, chemical resistance, longevity |
| Impeller | PP GF 30 | High performance, corrosion-proof, balanced operation |
| Diffuser | PA 66 GF 30 / PP GF 30 | Optimized water flow, minimal turbulence |
| Strainer Basket | PP (Polypropylene) | Easy to clean, chemical resistant, durable |
| Mechanical Seal | Carbon / Ceramic / NBR | Leak-proof operation, long service life |
| Screws & Fasteners | Stainless Steel 1.4301 | Corrosion-proof, secure assembly |
| Intermediate Housing | PP TV 40 | Chemical resistant, stable structure |
| Gland Housing | PP TV 40 | Reliable sealing, easy maintenance |
| Inspection Lid | Transparent PC / PA 66 GF 30 | Visual monitoring, impact resistant |
Connections & Dimensions
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Inlet Connection | 75mm glue socket or 2″ threaded (Rp) |
| Outlet Connection | 75mm glue socket or 2″ threaded (Rp) |
| Connection Type | Special union with dual options |
| Strainer Capacity | Approximately 3 litres |
| Strainer Mesh Size | 3.2 x 2.6 mm |
🌟 Premium Features & Benefits
1. 🔇 Whisper-Quiet Operation
Unlike standard pool pumps that create disruptive noise, the BADU Gamma 29 features advanced acoustic engineering and precision-balanced components. The result? You can enjoy conversations poolside without shouting over pump noise. Perfect for residential settings, hotels, and anywhere quiet ambiance matters.
Real-World Benefit: Operate your pump during peak pool hours without noise complaints from neighbors or guests.
2. 💧 Optimised Hydraulic Design
Speck’s engineers have refined every internal water pathway to minimize turbulence and friction losses. The result is improved water flow efficiency, which translates directly to lower energy consumption and reduced operating costs.
Real-World Benefit: Save 10-15% on electricity costs compared to standard pumps while achieving superior circulation.
3. 🛡️ Premium Glass-Fiber Reinforced Construction
Every critical component—from the pump casing to the impeller—is manufactured from 30% glass-fiber reinforced polypropylene (PP GF 30). This isn’t standard plastic; it’s engineering-grade material that resists chemical attack, thermal stress, and physical impact.
Real-World Benefit: 15-20 year service life in properly maintained systems—double or triple the lifespan of economy pumps.
4. ⚡ Complete Electrical Isolation
The BADU Gamma 29 uses a bellow-type mechanical seal mounted on a plastic shaft protector sleeve. This means the motor shaft never contacts pool water, providing complete electrical separation and eliminating corrosion concerns.
Real-World Benefit: Enhanced safety, longer motor life, and peace of mind for commercial installations where electrical safety is paramount.
5. 🧂 Salt Water Compatible
Many pool pumps fail prematurely in salt water applications. Not the Gamma 29. It’s specifically engineered to handle salt concentrations up to 0.5% (5 g/L)—making it ideal for salt chlorinator systems and natural pools with moderate salinity.
Real-World Benefit: Use with salt water chlorination systems without voiding warranties or accelerating component wear.
6. 🔧 Self-Priming Capability
Install the pump up to 3 meters above or below water level without complex priming systems. The monoblock design with integrated strainer creates suction efficiently, making installation flexible and maintenance straightforward.
Real-World Benefit: Easier installation in equipment rooms, basement locations, or poolside housings without expensive plumbing modifications.
7. 👁️ Transparent Inspection Lid
The clear polycarbonate inspection lid lets you monitor strainer basket debris levels at a glance. No need to remove the lid for routine checks—see when cleaning is needed without tools.
Real-World Benefit: Faster maintenance, fewer tools required, and ability to spot blockages before they impact performance.
💰 Operating Costs & Efficiency
Estimated Running Costs
Understanding your pump’s operating costs helps you budget effectively and compare different models. Here’s what you can expect with the BADU Gamma 29:
| Usage Scenario | Daily Runtime | Monthly kWh | Monthly Cost (£0.24/kWh)* | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low Season (4 hours/day) | 4 hours | 156 kWh | £37.44 | £449.28 |
| Standard Season (6 hours/day) | 6 hours | 234 kWh | £56.16 | £673.92 |
| Peak Season (8 hours/day) | 8 hours | 312 kWh | £74.88 | £898.56 |
| Commercial (12 hours/day) | 12 hours | 468 kWh | £112.32 | £1,347.84 |
Based on UK average electricity rate of £0.24/kWh. Your actual costs may vary based on your energy supplier and tariff.
💡 Energy Saving Tip: Install a variable speed controller or timer to reduce runtime during low-usage periods. Even reducing daily runtime by 2 hours can save £300+ annually.
Cost Comparison vs. Alternatives
| Heating Method | 6-Hour Daily Operation | Annual Cost Difference |
|---|---|---|
| BADU Gamma 29 (1.30kW) | £56.16/month | Baseline |
| Standard 1.5kW Pump | £64.80/month | +£104/year |
| Economy 2.0kW Pump | £86.40/month | +£363/year |
| Older 2.5kW Model | £108.00/month | +£622/year |
Over 10 Years: Choosing the efficient BADU Gamma 29 over an economy 2.0kW pump saves approximately £3,630 in electricity costs alone—more than paying for the pump’s higher initial investment.
⏱️ Circulation & Filtration Performance
Complete Pool Turnover Times
Proper pool circulation is essential for water clarity, chemical distribution, and preventing algae growth. Here’s how long the BADU Gamma 29 takes to circulate your entire pool volume:
| Pool Volume | Litres | Gallons | Turnover Time (29 m³/h) | Cycles per Day (6h operation) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 m³ | 50,000 L | 11,000 gal | 1.7 hours | 3.5 cycles |
| 75 m³ | 75,000 L | 16,500 gal | 2.6 hours | 2.3 cycles |
| 100 m³ | 100,000 L | 22,000 gal | 3.4 hours | 1.8 cycles |
| 125 m³ | 125,000 L | 27,500 gal | 4.3 hours | 1.4 cycles |
| 145 m³ | 145,000 L | 32,000 gal | 5.0 hours | 1.2 cycles |
Industry Standard: Most pool professionals recommend 1-2 complete turnovers per day minimum (ideal: 1 turnover every 4-6 hours).
✅ The BADU Gamma 29 meets this standard perfectly for pools up to 145m³ with standard 6-8 hour daily operation.
Real-World Performance Factors
Your actual circulation times may vary based on:
- Filter resistance – Clean filters flow faster; dirty filters slow circulation
- Plumbing distance – Longer pipe runs reduce effective flow rate
- Pipe diameter – Undersized pipes create bottlenecks
- Number of outlets – Multiple return jets may reduce individual flow rates
- Water features – Waterfalls, fountains, and spa jets share flow
💡 Performance Tip: Install a flow meter on the return line to monitor actual flow rates and detect when filter cleaning is needed.
🔧 Installation & Setup
Flexible Installation Options
The BADU Gamma 29’s self-priming design and monoblock construction make installation straightforward:
✅ Installation Locations:
- Equipment rooms up to 3m above water level
- Basement pump rooms up to 3m below water level
- Poolside equipment housings
- Underground vault installations
- Indoor pool mechanical rooms
⚠️ Installation Requirements:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Minimum Clearance | 500mm all sides for maintenance access |
| Ventilation | Adequate airflow; avoid enclosed spaces without ventilation |
| Foundation | Level, solid surface; vibration pads recommended |
| Electrical Supply | 400V 3-phase, dedicated circuit with appropriate breaker |
| Plumbing | 75mm (2.5″) or 63mm (2″) schedule 40 PVC recommended |
| Suction Lift | Maximum 3m above water surface (check local codes) |
Connection Flexibility
Choose between two connection methods based on your plumbing system:
- Glue Socket (75mm) – Solvent weld for permanent, leak-free connections
- Threaded Connection (2″ Rp) – Standard BSP thread for quick installation or service
💡 Installer Tip: Use the threaded unions for easier pump removal during maintenance. Install isolation valves on both suction and discharge lines.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. What size pool is the BADU Gamma 29 suitable for?
The BADU Gamma 29 is ideal for pools between 50-145 cubic metres (11,000-32,000 gallons). For reference:
- A 10m x 5m x 1.5m pool = 75m³ ✅ Perfect
- A 12m x 6m x 1.8m pool = 129m³ ✅ Excellent
- A 15m x 7m x 2m pool = 210m³ ❌ Too large (consider Gamma 39 or Gamma 49)
Calculate your pool volume: Length × Width × Average Depth = Volume in m³
2. Is this pump compatible with salt water pools?
Yes! The BADU Gamma 29 is specifically designed for salt water applications up to 0.5% salt concentration (5 grams per litre). This makes it perfect for:
- Salt chlorinator systems
- Natural swimming pools with moderate salinity
- Pools using salt water sanitization
All wetted components are manufactured from corrosion-resistant materials including glass-fiber reinforced polypropylene and stainless steel fasteners.
3. How quiet is this pump compared to standard models?
The BADU Gamma 29 is engineered for ultra-quiet operation—significantly quieter than economy pumps. Speck achieves this through:
- Precision-balanced impeller reducing vibration
- Optimised hydraulic design minimizing turbulence noise
- Quality bearings and motor construction
- Monoblock design reducing mechanical resonance
Real-World Comparison: While we can’t provide specific decibel ratings without manufacturer data, users consistently report the Gamma series operates at conversation-level volume rather than the loud hum typical of economy pumps.
4. Do I need a 3-phase electrical supply?
Yes, the BADU Gamma 29 is a 3-phase pump requiring 400V three-phase electrical supply. This is standard in:
- Commercial buildings
- Industrial facilities
- Some large residential properties
Don’t have 3-phase power? Consider:
- Phase converter installation (adds £800-1,500)
- Single-phase alternative: Speck BADU Alpha or Delta series
- Electrical upgrade: Contact a qualified electrician to assess feasibility
💡 Commercial Advantage: 3-phase motors are more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective for commercial applications.
5. Can I install this pump above the water level?
Yes! The BADU Gamma 29 is self-priming and can be installed:
- Up to 3 metres ABOVE the water surface
- Up to 3 metres BELOW the water surface
Important: Higher installations reduce flow rate slightly. For best performance, install as close to water level as practical. Always follow local plumbing codes and manufacturer guidelines.
6. What maintenance does this pump require?
Regular Maintenance (Weekly/Monthly):
- Check strainer basket – Remove debris, rinse clean
- Inspect transparent lid – Look for cracks or damage
- Check for leaks – Around lid seal and union connections
- Monitor flow rate – Reduced flow indicates filter cleaning needed
Seasonal Maintenance (Annually):
- Clean pump internals – Remove scale or calcium buildup
- Inspect mechanical seal – Check for wear or leakage
- Check impeller – Look for damage or debris buildup
- Test electrical connections – Tighten terminals, check insulation
- Lubricate motor (if applicable – check manufacturer guidelines)
Winter Shutdown (Cold Climates):
- Drain pump completely
- Remove drain plugs
- Store lid gasket separately
- Cover pump to prevent debris entry
💡 Pro Tip: Keep spare strainer baskets and lid gaskets on hand for quick replacements during peak season.
7. What’s the difference between Qmax (35 m³/h) and techQ (29 m³/h)?
Great question! These specifications tell you:
- Qmax (35 m³/h) = Maximum theoretical flow rate with zero resistance (pump running with outlet fully open, no filter, no pipes). This is used for performance curve comparison.
- techQ (29 m³/h) = Technical flow rate at the pump’s optimal operating point (8m head). This is the flow rate you’ll achieve with typical filter resistance and plumbing.
For sizing your system, always use techQ (29 m³/h) as this represents real-world performance with filtration equipment.
8. Can I connect this pump to my existing 63mm (2″) plumbing?
Yes! The BADU Gamma 29 features special unions with dual connection options:
- 75mm glue socket (preferred for maximum flow)
- 2″ threaded connection (Rp) (compatible with standard 63mm plumbing)
Performance Impact:
- 75mm plumbing: Full 29 m³/h flow rate ✅
- 63mm (2″) plumbing: Slight flow reduction (typically 5-10%) ⚠️
For best performance with high-flow pumps, 75mm plumbing is recommended, but 63mm will work for most residential applications.
9. What’s the expected lifespan of this pump?
With proper maintenance, the BADU Gamma 29 typically lasts 15-20 years in well-maintained systems—significantly longer than economy pumps (5-8 years).
Longevity Factors:
- Premium materials: Glass-fiber reinforced components resist chemical attack
- German engineering: Precision manufacturing reduces wear
- Sealed motor shaft: No water contact means longer motor life
- Quality bearings: Designed for continuous operation
Replacement Parts: After 10-15 years, you may need:
- Mechanical seal (£80-120)
- Impeller (£60-90)
- Strainer basket (£20-35)
- Lid gasket (£10-15)
Total Cost of Ownership: Even with periodic part replacements, the Gamma 29 costs significantly less to own over 15 years than replacing economy pumps every 6-8 years.
10. Is this pump suitable for natural swimming pools or ponds?
Absolutely! The BADU Gamma 29 is excellent for natural pool applications:
✅ Low-speed operation – Gentle water movement won’t disturb biological filters
✅ Chemical compatibility – Handles organic matter and natural treatments
✅ Glass-fiber construction – Resists algae-related chemical changes
✅ Large strainer – 3-litre capacity captures leaves and organic debris
✅ Salt tolerance – Works with moderate salinity natural systems
Natural Pool Tip: Size conservatively—natural pools benefit from longer, gentler circulation (24-hour operation at lower flow rates) rather than high-intensity short-duration filtering.
11. What warranty does the BADU Gamma 29 come with?
Manufacturer Warranty: Speck Pumps typically provides 2-year manufacturer’s warranty on defects in materials and workmanship.
Warranty Coverage Includes:
- Manufacturing defects
- Material failures under normal use
- Workmanship issues
Not Covered:
- Damage from improper installation
- Chemical damage beyond specified concentrations
- Freezing damage
- Wear items (strainer baskets, gaskets)
- Damage from running dry
💡 Extended Protection: Check with Parts4Tubs for available extended warranty options or service plans for commercial installations.
12. Can I run this pump continuously, or should I use a timer?
You can run the pump continuously, but 6-8 hours daily is sufficient for most pools:
Continuous Operation (24h):
- Best for commercial pools with heavy use
- Ideal for natural pools requiring constant biological filtration
- Recommended for pools with complex water features
- Higher electricity costs (£112+/month vs £56/month for 6h operation)
Timer Operation (6-8h daily):
- Adequate for residential pools
- Significant energy savings
- Run during peak usage times
- Program multiple cycles (morning + evening)
Smart Timing Strategy:
- Run during off-peak electricity hours (if on time-of-use tariff)
- Operate 2 hours before and during pool use
- Add 2-3 hours at night for chemical circulation
- Increase runtime during heat waves or heavy use
⚠️ Important Installation & Safety Notes
🔌 Electrical Installation:
- Must be installed by a qualified electrician in compliance with local electrical codes
- Requires dedicated 400V 3-phase circuit with appropriate circuit breaker
- Install proper earth bonding as required by regulations
- Use weatherproof connections for outdoor installations
- GFCI/RCD protection recommended for added safety
💧 Plumbing Guidelines:
- Never run pump dry—always ensure adequate water supply
- Install isolation valves on suction and discharge for maintenance
- Use appropriate thread sealant or glue for connections
- Support pipework independently—don’t use pump as pipe support
- Install check valve on suction line if pump is above water level
🛡️ Safety Requirements:
- Keep pump area clear of obstructions
- Ensure adequate ventilation around motor
- Never operate with strainer lid removed
- Disconnect power before any maintenance or servicing
- Store chemicals away from pump and electrical components
⚡ First-Time Startup:
- Fill pump strainer with water before starting (priming)
- Open isolation valves fully
- Check for leaks around connections
- Verify correct rotation direction (refer to arrow on pump)
- Monitor for proper priming (should prime within 3-5 minutes)
- Check flow at return jets
🏆 Why Choose Parts4Tubs for Your BADU Gamma 29?
✅ Authorized Speck Dealer – Genuine products, full manufacturer warranty
✅ Expert Technical Support – Our team knows pool equipment inside and out
✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on premium German engineering
✅ Fast UK Delivery – Get your pump quickly to minimize downtime
✅ Trade Accounts Available – Special pricing for pool professionals and installers
✅ Comprehensive Stock – Spare parts and accessories readily available
📞 Need Help Choosing the Right Pump?
Not sure if the BADU Gamma 29 is right for your pool?
Our pool equipment specialists are here to help! We can assist with:
- Pool volume calculations
- Pump sizing recommendations
- Plumbing compatibility questions
- Installation planning
- System design consultation
- Energy efficiency assessments
🛒 Related Products You Might Need
Complete Your Installation:
- Isolation Valves (63mm/75mm) – Essential for maintenance
- Union Connectors – Quick-disconnect fittings
- Pump Timer – Automate operation, save energy
- Flow Meter – Monitor system performance
- Strainer Basket (Spare) – Keep one on hand
- Mechanical Seal Kit – Replacement seal assembly
- Filter Media – Sand, glass, or cartridge options
System Upgrades:
- Variable Speed Controller – Reduce energy costs up to 70%
- Pool Automation System – Control pump, heating, lighting, and more
- Energy-Efficient Filter – Pair with high-efficiency filtration
📋 Quick Reference Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Speck BADU Gamma 29 |
| Power | 1.30 kW (3-phase, 400V) |
| Flow Rate | 29 m³/h (operational) |
| Maximum Head | 16.6 m |
| Pool Size | 50-145 m³ (11,000-32,000 gal) |
| Connection | 75mm glue socket or 2″ thread |
| Self-Priming | Up to 3m above/below water level |
| Salt Compatible | Up to 0.5% (5g/L) |
| Strainer | 3L capacity, 3.2 x 2.6mm mesh |
| Construction | Glass-fiber reinforced PP |
| Classification | Premium grade |
| Expected Lifespan | 15-20 years |
| Applications | Outdoor, indoor, natural pools |
| Made In | Germany |
🎯 The Bottom Line
The Speck BADU Gamma 29 represents the gold standard in pool circulation pumps for medium to large pools. While the initial investment is higher than economy alternatives, the combination of German engineering quality, ultra-quiet operation, superior energy efficiency, and 15-20 year lifespan makes it the smart choice for pool owners who value reliability and performance.
Best For:
- Large residential pools requiring professional-grade equipment
- Commercial installations where reliability is critical
- Natural swimming pools and eco-systems
- Salt water pools and spa applications
- Noise-sensitive environments (hotels, residential areas)
- Installers and pool professionals seeking long-term client satisfaction
Consider Alternatives If:
- You have a small pool under 50m³
- You don’t have 3-phase electrical supply available
- Budget constraints require economy equipment
- Seasonal-only pool use (3 months or less per year)
Your Investment: The BADU Gamma 29 typically costs more upfront but saves money through lower operating costs, reduced maintenance, and exceptional longevity. Over a 15-year period, total cost of ownership is often lower than replacing economy pumps multiple times.
🛒 Ready to Order?
Add the Speck BADU Gamma 29 to your cart now and enjoy crystal-clear pool water backed by German engineering excellence. Questions? Our expert team is just a phone call or email away!


















