Is my pump too large?

[spdrcr]

I've been thinking my pump is too large for my pool. It's 2HP and the water really flows from the jets, my kids have trouble swimming against the current. When I came home today my pump motor was running but not pumping and it was making more noise than usual. I think it's done after 13+ years of Missouri weather. Should I replace it a 1 1/2HP?

Thanks,
Matt

 

[mas985]

Welcome to the forum!

If you have no high flow rate needs (e.g. spa, waterfall), then almost any pump will do. I run my pool on a 1/2 HP 2 speed pump. So I would say a 1 1/2 HP is still too big. Do you have a controller or timer to turn on and off the pump?

 

[spdrcr]

I use a timer and run it about 14 - 16 hours a day.

 

[mas985]

14-16 hours is probably way more time than you need too. My pump averages about 4 hours per day in the summer.

Pool School - Determine Pump Run Time

If you are interested in a two speed, here are a couple of good choices:

Hayward MaxFlo XL SP2307X102
Pentair SuperFlo 340042

But you would need to add a two speed timer to switch speeds automatically. Or you could switch speeds manually.

 

[spdrcr]

What is he advantage of the two speed? Efficiency?

 

[jblizzle]

Saving $ on electricity by running at the lower speed most of the time.

 

[mas985]

Yes, low speed reduces energy costs by over 75%. High speed of your old pump probably used between 2000-2500 watts. The pumps above on high speed will use 1000-1400 watts and on low speed 250-300 watts.

 

[spdrcr]

OK thanks!