Can a pump be too big?

[lauramary]

We have a 16K gallon new plaster/pebble pool. When we signed the contract, it was to include a 1hp, one-speed pump. However, we upgraded to a 2hp, two-speed pump. Is it possible that the pump is TOO powerful for the size of the pool?

 

[duraleigh]

Absolutely. The pump should be matched to the size of the pool and, more importantly, the size of your filter.

2hp really does sound much too big for that size pool.

 

[mas985]

Yes, a pump can be too big. It needs to be properly sized for the plumbing and filter. If you can, please give some more details about the pool setup.

Do you have a spa?

What is the filter size?

What size is the pipe going to and from the pool and how many lines are there?

 

[frustratedpoolmom]

You can run the pump on low and achieve drastic savings to your elec bill. I think it was a fine choice.

You can run your pump on low 24/7, achieve the same water turnover as running the pump on high for 12 hours, but save about 1/3 the elec costs...

You should only need to run on high to vacume or use water features/ attached spa.

 

[lauramary]

This is an interesting difference of opinion! Here are more details about the pool in question:

16K gallons, no spa or waterfall, the filter is a Hayward Pro Series Sand Filter Model S310S with Zeobrite. The pump is a Tristar SP3220ZZ 2-speed. The plumbing is 2 inch diameter.

The contractor is willing to downgrade to 1.5 hp pump.

Any further opinions would be very much appreciated!

 

[frustratedpoolmom]

See if you can get a 1.5 2 speed.

 

[mas985]

If you want the TriStar I would go with either the full rated 1 HP or the up rated 1 1/2 HP which are basically the same pump. Part #s SP32102EE or SP3210X152. Anything larger is a waste of both money and energy.