Variable speed pump controlled with Intermatic timer

[FightingGobbler]

Hello!

I have an IntelliFlo pump wired for constant power. I run it from 8a - 7p set directly on the pump. I have an Aquarite SWCG run from 9a-6p set by an Intermatic mechanical timer.

The pump will no longer retain its time/date settings after a power outage but will retain its speed settings. I've read that this is due to a failed capacitor and is not feasible to replace.

As a result, the pump and intermatic clocks get out of sync with our not-infrequent power outages. In this situation, the SWCG will often not run at all. With our most recent power outage, the clocks were not synced AND our SWCG flowswitch was broken in the ON position meaning the SWCG was generating WITHOUT flow. Fortunately, I caught that quick and fixed it.

Nature of my job means I'm often away for a long periods of time during power outages. Thus I can't be around to monitor frequently.

Our pool person suggests that we put the pump in manual mode and place under Intermatic control. Thus pump and SWCG only get energized together. I'd probably run for 12 hours/day and adjust pump speed and SWCG to ensure appropriate circulation and sanitation.

Is this a reasonable option? I know this setup is not optimal, but situation is a bit different now.

Would cycling power to the pump on a daily basis be problematic?

I do have solar plugged directly into pump. Would the solar still trigger a higher pump speed when necessary?

I'd rather not install new pump or automation system because of the cost.

Thank you for any suggestions.

 

[ajw22]

Why not run your pump 24/7 at the lowest RPM+200 that engages the SWG flow switch?

Or you could control the SWG power with a current sensing relay...

Current Sensing Relay for SWG with Variable Speed pump

First, thanks to all of the posters who make this such a valuable forum! I've only recently joined, but hope to add value over time! There are several threads regarding using a current-sensing relay to avoid the problem of a SWG running when the pump is NOT running. Recently, the flow sensor...

www.troublefreepool.com

My wiring diagram for current sensing relay

I would like to preface this by saying I’m faaaaaar from an electrician. In fact I’m mostly posting this to get other people’s (who know more than me) take on this subject. I’m installing a SWG in the spring, and want to put in some insurance to make sure I don’t turn my SWG into a little bomb...

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Jimrahbe]

FG,

I run my IntelliFlo 24/7, mostly at 1200 RPM and it costs me less than $20 bucks a month.. I like making a little chlorine all the time and skimming all the time.. I also think it is much better for the pump, then turning it on and off each day.

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[FightingGobbler]

Thanks for the replies.

I've considered going 24/7 a few times over the years as I've read compelling posts from both of you guys

For our setup, it would require 1500 RPM to avoid tripping the flow switch. However, we heavily use solar (pool under screen and largely indirect sun). We need 2500 to get to roof. Probably still not that expensive based on the excel spreadsheet in the forum link you provided above.

Do wear and tear considerations on pump change when it's 2500 during most days and 1500 the rest of the time?

Is running a variable speed pump AND an SWG off an Intermatic timer really not preferred?

I hadn't thought about using a current sensing relay. For my use case, would it be more simple/reliable for a qualified individual (not me) to change the wiring about the timer?

Are there reasonable automation options that would run a Intellipro pump, an Aquarite SWG, and a Pentair SolarTouch?

 

[ajw22]

Thanks for the replies.

I've considered going 24/7 a few times over the years as I've read compelling posts from both of you guys

For our setup, it would require 1500 RPM to avoid tripping the flow switch.

Why do you want to avoid tripping the flow switch?

If your pump is running you might as well generate some chlorine.

Do wear and tear considerations on pump change when it's 2500 during most days and 1500 the rest of the time?

Nope.

Is running a variable speed pump AND an SWG off an Intermatic timer really not preferred?

It is fine as long as you check on the timer setting periodically.

I hadn't thought about using a current sensing relay. For my use case, would it be more simple/reliable for a qualified individual (not me) to change the wiring about the timer?

It is not difficult if they have built electronic equipment.

Are there reasonable automation options that would run a Intellipro pump, an Aquarite SWG, and a Pentair SolarTouch?

You need to get rid of the SolarTouch and get an automation panel that does solar.

A Hayward Omni Hub or a Pentair IntelliCenter Lite properly configured can manage an IntelliPro pump and Aquarite SWG.

 

[FightingGobbler]

Why do you want to avoid tripping the flow switch?

If your pump is running you might as well generate some chlorine.

Sorry was unclear with that. I meant I need to run our pump 1500 RPM for the SWG to detect flow. Any slower and the SWG stops generating.

A Hayward Omni Hub or a Pentair IntelliCenter Lite properly configured can manage an IntelliPro pump and Aquarite SWG.

Both of those are impressive but probably overkill for what I'm trying to accomplish. I'd basically just need the "automation" system to serve as a clock for my variable speed pump, turn on the SWG at a preset time (I wouldn't need it to report salt levels or allow me to adjust run percentage), and allow the solar system to increase RPM when needed.

I think I will try to run the pump 24/7 for awhile and see how that works. Thank you for your help!