Need Variable Speed Pump Recommendation

[PoolGate]

Helping my neighbor with a fried pump. Looking for a budget variable speed pump with outputs for a SWG (not mandatory). 1.5HP should be enough pool is 23k gallons with no water features. This will be a self-install.

 

[mknauss]

For DIY install InyoPools Pureline pumps have a good warranty. Pentair Superflo VS is also good but you get a 60 day warranty.

What SWCG? Circupool has VS pump that can integrate with their SWCG.

 

[PoolGate]

The Jandy TruClear.

 

[mknauss]

With that SWCG you will need to use a timer for it or install a current sensing device.

 

[PoolGate]

Pureline looks good do they have one that has a relay for a SWG?

 

[PoolGate]

With that SWCG you will need to use a timer for it or install a current sensing device.

It is on a timer and I would think we could use the same timer. I doubt he will ever change the motor speed anyway.

 

[PoolGate]

Maybe just the below and skip the VSP?

PureLine 1.5 H.P In Ground Pool Pump - PL1601 - INYOPools.com

 

[mknauss]

At a minimum a two speed is better. Low for general pumping. High for vacuuming, backflush, etc.

Probably can get a motor to mate up with the existing pump.

 

[PoolGate]

At a minimum a two speed is better. Low for general pumping. High for vacuuming, backflush, etc.

Probably can get a motor to mate up with the existing pump.

He did that last time it is getting to be the pump is wearing. Barely primes anymore we need to dump water in it, slam the lid shut and turn it on fast. I think a basic 2-speed would be perfect. How do those go from low to high? A switch on the pump? He would need to keep it low unless he was backwashing his DE or running the vacuum. Can you recommend a 2-speed? Budget would be better.

 

[mknauss]

Switch on the pump to change speeds.

InyoPools website does not show complete pumps with a two speed motor.

Not much to wear out on the wet end. Once you replace the seals and even the strainer lid and gasket, they are pretty much as good as new.

 

[CJadamec]

If your neighbor is having priming issues on a pump that used to work fine, and works fine once they force it to prime, more than likely its a suction side leak. In a self priming designed pump there isn't really anything to wear out that will stop it from priming. An air leak in the plumbing is really what they should be looking for before replacing the pump.

A brand new no frills 2-speed in ground self priming pump is around 3-400 last I was looking. They aren't that much cheaper than the pureline VSP models.

 

[PoolGate]

If your neighbor is having priming issues on a pump that used to work fine, and works fine once they force it to prime, more than likely its a suction side leak. In a self priming designed pump there isn't really anything to wear out that will stop it from priming. An air leak in the plumbing is really what they should be looking for before replacing the pump.

A brand new no frills 2-speed in ground self priming pump is around 3-400 last I was looking. They aren't that much cheaper than the pureline VSP models.

The issue is his pump is fried. Looking for replacements. The pump runs fine there are no leaks just needs help priming. It is old as dirt for all I know it is not self-priming. It is coming up on 15 years old single speed running 100% of the season when open. Motor has been replaced once already on it.

VSP is not a good fit for this pool. There is no automation and probably never will be. The pressure pool vacuum is always in the pool as well. I am thinking to just tell him buy a new motor again and use it like it is.

 

[CJadamec]

SO the motor is not working but the wet end of the pump is otherwise ok.

Replace the motor and then find the air leak so you don't have the priming issues anymore.

With the cost of some of cheaper VSP pump what they are now compared to the cost of a 2-speed pump I'm more inclined to recommend a VSP even if there is no automation for an in-ground self priming pool pump. That's just my opinion though.

For above ground pool pools the price for a VSP is still high unless you have real need for the speed control.

 

[PoolGate]

Inyopools was very helpful! Ended up getting the 1.5hp Whisperflo single speed. We will install this weekend.

 

[mknauss]

Good. Next time you need a pump be prepared to go with a multi speed. In 2121 the federal regulation kicks in that discontinues the availability of single speed pool pumps greater than ~1.1 hp.

 

[setsailsoon]

For DIY install InyoPools Pureline pumps have a good warranty. Pentair Superflo VS is also good but you get a 60 day warranty.

What SWCG? Circupool has VS pump that can integrate with their SWCG.

Marty, I didn't know Circupool had one that integrates. Slowly but surely I'm doing everything all you experts have been advising. I think this will be the last step. Thanks for the info!

Chris

 

[PoolGate]

Good. Next time you need a pump be prepared to go with a multi speed. In 2121 the federal regulation kicks in that discontinues the availability of single speed pool pumps greater than ~1.1 hp.

I'll be dead by then anyway.

 

[bmoreswim]

Ah, I was going to ask if the BGE $400 rebate on VS pumps applied to you (your neighbor), but you are all set.

Good luck with the install.

 

[mknauss]

I'll be dead by then anyway.

Hah! Added a hundred years!! Make that 2021!!!

 

[setsailsoon]

Inyopools was very helpful! Ended up getting the 1.5hp Whisperflo single speed. We will install this weekend.

Here's a suggestion. Take the long bolts out of the motor one-at-a-time and coat the threads with anti seize then reinstall. In 5 years or so when the pump seal leaks you'll be able to disassemble the motor to easily replace the $20 bearing instead of replace the motor.

I hope this helps.

Chris