1.5" vs. 2" for 8500 gallon pool

[theaterdesignco]

Hello,

I have looked and seems most recommend 2". However since this is a small 12 x 20 pool with 1 return and two skimmers is it necessary to go 2" longest run is the return at 45' with a rise of 5', skimmers are much shorter?

Thank you,

Tyler

 

[CJadamec]

2" will be slightly more efficient. 1.5" will function absolutely fine.

The engineer in me that loves to over design and tinker says yea yea 2" mmmm monster flow....

The practical part of me says 1.5" is cheaper and easier and takes up less space one the equipment pad. Besides you will be cramming all that flow out thru a 3/4" return eyeball hole.

My practical side has been told it is not the life of the party.

 

[Grjones1020]

If your pump is variable speed, then go with the larger plumbing for sure. You will be able to realize the cost savings through lower electricity usage with the larger plumbing. Of course this is just based on my research here. There is an article that is amazing about Hydraulics 101 on this forum. It's a long read, but you will feel really smart afterwards.

Hydraulics 101 - Have you lost your head?