💧 Pentair La Sta-Rite 5P2R 0.5HP Single Phase Pool Pump (5P2RC-1) – 7m³/hr Flow Rate
🌊 Italian-Engineered Excellence for Reliable, Efficient Pool Circulation
📋 Product Overview
The Pentair La Sta-Rite 5P2RC-1 is a precision-engineered 0.5HP single-phase swimming pool pump manufactured at Pentair’s renowned facility in Pisa, Italy. This self-priming centrifugal pump combines decades of European engineering expertise with premium components to deliver outstanding reliability and performance for residential pool owners.
Built around an induction asynchronous motor with a bi-material shaft design and stainless steel 304 shaft-end, the 5P2RC-1 offers exceptional durability in demanding pool environments. The pump’s salt-resistant construction (handling concentrations up to 0.4%) makes it ideal for both traditional chlorine and saltwater pool systems.
With a flow rate of 7m³/hr at 10m head, this pump provides efficient circulation for small to medium residential pools, water features, and filtration systems. The iconic “See-Thru” trap lid and exclusive 5″ lock-in basket make maintenance straightforward, while the heavy-duty motor construction ensures years of quiet, reliable operation.
⭐ Key Features
✅ Italian Manufacturing Quality – Precision-engineered at Pentair’s Pisa facility with rigorous European quality standards and CE compliance
✅ Self-Priming Diffuser Design – Industry-leading priming speed eliminates air-lock frustrations and gets your system running faster
✅ Premium SKF Sealed Bearings – Permanently lubricated, industrial-grade bearings for extended service life and reduced maintenance
✅ Bi-Material Shaft with Stainless Steel 304 End – Corrosion-resistant construction for exceptional durability in chlorine and saltwater environments
✅ Salt-Resistant Construction (>0.4%) – Purpose-built for saltwater pools with enhanced corrosion protection throughout
✅ Built-In Thermal Overload Protection – Automatic motor protection prevents damage from overheating, extending pump lifespan
✅ “See-Thru” Trap Lid – Clear lid eliminates guesswork – instantly see when the strainer basket needs cleaning
✅ Exclusive 5″ Lock-In Basket – Large capacity strainer prevents debris from clogging the impeller, reducing maintenance frequency
✅ IP-X5 Protection Rating – Water-resistant enclosure suitable for outdoor plant room installations
✅ “Hi-Rise” Mounting Base – Elevated motor design protects against ground moisture and contaminants for longer motor life
✅ 3-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty – Comprehensive coverage including bearings demonstrates confidence in build quality
🔧 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 5P2RC-1 |
| Motor Power | 0.5 HP (0.37 kW) |
| Power Input (P1) | 640W |
| Power Output (P2) | 370W |
| Phase | Single Phase |
| Voltage | 220-240V / 50Hz |
| Motor Speed | 2,850 RPM |
| Flow Rate @ 10m Head | 7 m³/hr |
| Maximum Head | Up to 22.5 metres |
| Suction Port | 1½” BSP |
| Discharge Port | 1½” BSP |
| Strainer Basket Size | 5″ (127mm) |
| Salt Resistance | >0.4% concentration |
| Protection Rating | IP-55 (motor) / IP-X5 (pump) |
| Insulation Class | F |
| Max Liquid Temperature | 52°C |
| Max Ambient Temperature | 50°C |
| pH Operating Range | 4-9 |
| Bearing Type | SKF Sealed (permanently lubricated) |
| Shaft Material | Stainless Steel 304 |
| Impeller Material | Glass-filled Lexan |
| Body Material | Fiberglass-reinforced thermoplastic |
| Mechanical Seal | Carbon/Ceramic/Stainless Steel |
| Manufacturing Location | Pisa, Italy |
| Warranty | 3 years (90 days on mechanical seal) |
💰 Usage Costs & Running Expenses
Understanding the true cost of pool pump ownership helps you make informed decisions. The Sta-Rite 5P2RC-1’s efficient 0.37kW motor delivers significant savings compared to older or oversized pumps.
📊 Annual Running Cost Calculation
Power consumption: 0.64 kW (input power) UK electricity rate: £0.2635 per kWh (Ofgem Price Cap, Q4 2025)
🏊 Scenario 1: Typical Residential Pool (Seasonal Use)
- Usage: 8 hours/day × 180 days (April–September)
- Total hours: 1,440 hours/year
- ✅ Annual running cost: 0.64 kW × 1,440 hrs × £0.2635 = £242.69
☀️ Scenario 2: Extended Season Pool
- Usage: 8 hours/day × 240 days (March–October)
- Total hours: 1,920 hours/year
- ✅ Annual running cost: 0.64 kW × 1,920 hrs × £0.2635 = £323.58
🔄 Scenario 3: Year-Round Indoor Pool
- Usage: 6 hours/day × 365 days
- Total hours: 2,190 hours/year
- ✅ Annual running cost: 0.64 kW × 2,190 hrs × £0.2635 = £369.38
⚡ Energy Efficiency Comparison
| Pump Type | Power Input | Annual Cost (1,440 hrs) | vs. 5P2RC-1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ Sta-Rite 5P2RC-1 | 0.64 kW | £242.69 | — |
| ❌ Older 0.75HP pump | 0.90 kW | £341.17 | +£98.48/year |
| ❌ Oversized 1.0HP pump | 1.18 kW | £447.43 | +£204.74/year |
| ❌ Inefficient budget pump | 0.85 kW | £322.22 | +£79.53/year |
💡 Key Insight: Correctly sizing your pump to your pool’s actual circulation needs prevents energy waste. An oversized pump doesn’t clean better – it simply costs more to run.
🎯 Real World Examples & Applications
🏊♂️ Residential Swimming Pools
The 7m³/hr flow rate is perfectly suited for domestic pools up to 40,000 litres, providing complete water turnover every 5-6 hours. Ideal for standard rectangular pools measuring approximately 8m × 4m with average depth of 1.4m. The self-priming design handles above-ground installations where the pump sits higher than the water level.
🛁 Hot Tub & Spa Circulation
For larger swim spas or hot tub circulation requirements, the 5P2RC-1 provides reliable continuous-duty performance. The thermal protection ensures safe operation even during extended spa sessions, while salt resistance accommodates modern saltwater sanitisation systems.
🌊 Water Features & Fountains
The high-head capability (up to 22.5m) makes this pump suitable for water features requiring significant lift, such as elevated fountains, cascades, and decorative waterfalls. The quiet motor operation is essential for features near living areas where noise would be intrusive.
🔄 Pool Upgrade & Replacement
As a direct replacement for ageing Sta-Rite pumps or equivalent 0.5HP models, the 5P2RC-1 offers improved efficiency and extended warranty coverage. Standard 1½” BSP connections ensure compatibility with existing pipework, minimising installation complexity and cost.
🏠 Small Commercial Installations
Suitable for small commercial applications such as holiday let pools, B&B guest pools, or rental property swimming pools where reliability and low maintenance are priorities. The clear strainer lid allows quick visual inspections without tools.
💡 Cost Savings Examples
📍 Scenario: Replacing an Ageing 0.75HP Pump
The situation: Your 12-year-old 0.75HP pump is becoming unreliable and running inefficiently.
| Factor | ❌ Old 0.75HP Pump | ✅ New 5P2RC-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Power consumption | 0.90 kW | 0.64 kW |
| Annual energy cost | £341.17 | £242.69 |
| Maintenance frequency | Every 2-3 years | Every 5+ years |
| Typical repair cost | £150-200 | Minimal (warranty) |
💰 Annual energy saving: £98.48 📈 5-year energy saving: £492.40 ⏱️ Typical payback period: 3-4 years on energy savings alone
📍 Scenario: Right-Sizing from an Oversized 1.0HP Pump
The situation: Your pool installer fitted a 1.0HP pump “to be safe” but your 35,000-litre pool only needs 6-7m³/hr flow.
| Factor | ❌ Oversized 1.0HP | ✅ Correctly-Sized 5P2RC-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Power consumption | 1.18 kW | 0.64 kW |
| Annual energy cost | £447.43 | £242.69 |
| Filter wear | Accelerated | Normal |
| Noise level | Higher | Lower |
💰 Annual energy saving: £204.74 📈 5-year energy saving: £1,023.70 💷 10-year saving: Over £2,000
📍 Scenario: New Pool Installation
The situation: You’re installing a new 8m × 4m residential pool (approximately 45,000 litres).
Circulation requirement: Pool volume ÷ 6 hours = 7,500 litres/hr = 7.5m³/hr 5P2RC-1 delivery: 7m³/hr at 10m head ✅
| Option | Initial Cost | Annual Running Cost | 5-Year Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| ❌ Budget pump (0.75HP) | Lower | £341.17 | Higher |
| ✅ Sta-Rite 5P2RC-1 | Moderate | £242.69 | Lower |
| ❌ Premium variable speed | Higher | £180-200 | Highest initially |
💡 Recommendation: The 5P2RC-1 offers the optimal balance of purchase price, running costs, and reliability for standard residential installations.
📥 Downloads & Resources
📄 Sta-Rite 5P2R Series Technical Manual – Comprehensive 12-page manual including installation instructions, electrical schematics, troubleshooting guide, and complete repair parts list with part numbers
Manual Contents Include:
- Detailed product specifications and performance data
- Electrical wiring diagrams for single and three-phase models
- Step-by-step installation guidelines
- Pump priming and startup procedures
- Winterisation and storage instructions
- Mechanical seal replacement procedures
- Troubleshooting guide for common issues
- Exploded parts diagram with part numbers
- Seal and gasket kit information (Parts-Pak No. PP 1000)
🛒 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs?
✅ Genuine Pentair/Sta-Rite Product – Authentic Italian-manufactured pump with full manufacturer warranty, not grey imports or refurbished units
✅ Expert Technical Support – Our team understands pool equipment and can advise on sizing, installation, and troubleshooting
✅ Comprehensive Spare Parts Stock – Full range of 5P2R series spares including seals, baskets, lids, and O-rings for future maintenance needs
✅ Competitive Pricing – Trade and retail pricing without compromising on genuine quality
✅ Fast UK Delivery – Stock items dispatched promptly to minimise pool downtime
✅ Full Warranty Support – We handle warranty claims directly, saving you time and hassle
✨ Summary
The Pentair La Sta-Rite 5P2RC-1 represents the ideal choice for residential pool owners seeking Italian engineering quality, proven reliability, and efficient operation. With its self-priming design, salt-resistant construction, premium SKF bearings, and comprehensive 3-year warranty, this 0.5HP pump delivers peace of mind alongside impressive running cost savings of up to £200 annually compared to oversized alternatives. Whether you’re upgrading an ageing pump, installing a new pool system, or maintaining a saltwater pool, the 5P2RC-1 offers the perfect balance of performance, durability, and value.


