Recent content by Mike_W

  1. Mike_W

    When does freeze protection trigger?

    See if you can find the model number of the pump. I've attached a link to the manual for the model I have. If you have a different model this may not apply. On page 16 it says that the sensor for this model is on top of the pump and is not influenced by water temperature. So (again for this...
  2. Mike_W

    Testing Salt Water Chlorine Generators

    There are always many questions on the forum about cell failure, or cells that are under performing. Over my time on TFP, I have seen threads that suggest taking a suspect SWG cell to a pool store (Leslies, et al) to "get it tested". Can someone enlighten me on what they actually test at the...
  3. Mike_W

    Power Outage Drains Pool

    I'm with Isaac. Without a schematic it is hard to know the precise issue, but a check valve inline with the pump will stop water from flowing "backwards" when the pump is off. If you are comfortable with cutting and glueing PVC you can fix it yourself. Jandy makes the kind of check valve that is...
  4. Mike_W

    New Pool Build- Huntington Beach, CA

    Looks good. Fits very nicely into the space. And welcome to TFP! Mike
  5. Mike_W

    Replacing pump with VS pump and Aqualink RS4

    I like it. (Techy here too!) I had a PDA system before and the PDA still works with my iAqualink. But as to worth, you can save a lot if you can install it yourself, but they are not inexpensive. Mike
  6. Mike_W

    Replacing pump with VS pump and Aqualink RS4

    bsk997 - Welcome! You can do as you describe - manually control the pump speed. If you are handy and comfortable working around electricity, another approach is to use a Pentair IntelliComm II Interface Adaptor. This device connects between your existing controller system and the pump and it...
  7. Mike_W

    Fishy Issues with Brand New VS Pump

    They are partially correct. Some Ground Fault Interrupters (also called "Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters", GFCI) are susceptible to nuisance tripping with variable speed motors and their controllers. However, the correct fix is not to remove this important and legally mandated safety device...
  8. Mike_W

    Advice on motor replacement....home warranty involved

    I wasn't suggesting that you file a claim - just that you enquire if it was covered (a replacement pump not just the motor), how much would be covered and the consequences to your premium. It sounds like you have a better source for insurance info than your agent, and you get to golf at the same...
  9. Mike_W

    Advice on motor replacement....home warranty involved

    If the lightning caused the motor failure, it might be covered by your homeowners insurance. I'd ask your agent. Mike
  10. Mike_W

    Fountain basin repair with epoxy resin?

    I ran across this while I was wandering the aisles of the big box store over the weekend. It is not clear however. Mike http://greatstuff.dow.com/products/pond-and-stone/
  11. Mike_W

    Pump Information Required

    First, a replacement A O Smith pump motor is available from many sources (including Amazon) for around $135 plus shipping. Just Google "smith c48j2n131b1". If you have good access to the pump, changing the motor is typically easier than replacing an entire pump, since you don't need to redo the...
  12. Mike_W

    I can't find the Capacitor

    Here's a link to a manual that covers troubleshooting the capacitor in your motor. http://www.electricmotorwarehouse.com/PDF/pool_motor_manual.pdf Mike - - - Updated - - - And welcome to TFP! Mike
  13. Mike_W

    Lights are out of sync...

    A couple of quick questions. What model lights are they? Other than being out of sync - do they look the same? That is, do they both cycle through their colors with the same sequence? Mike
  14. Mike_W

    What's all this talk about closing?

    How can 106° "feel" like 103°? Wind chill factor? It was a cool and comfortable 105° in Yorba Linda yesterday (only felt like 102°). Down to a chilly 101° forecast for today. Mike
  15. Mike_W

    It's so sparkly

    Looks great - job well done! Mike