30 year dream finally fulfilled.

I have always wanted a pool and it is soon to be a reality.

Opinions would be greatly appreciated on the following subjects:

Variable speed or single speed pump?

Natural gas heater or heat pump? (I want to swim May-September)

Vermiculite bottom or sand?

The installer will be using all Hayward equipment on a 16X32 vinyl IGP w/4 ft deep pool, app. 18,000 gallons in Michigan.

Any suggestions or comments for a new pool owner would be great.


Thank you.


 
It is only a temporary condition, stay calm.

I have a single speed pump and run it twice a day for 2-3 hours each in the summer. You can get a rebate here for upgrading to a 2 speed motor/pump but they are pricey at over $1K. It seems the idea behind a 2 speed pump is that it can be run for longer periods of time at a lower cost and improves water circulation. I too would like to hear the skinny on motor options.

Out west now the natural gas prices are low and is used to heat spas and some pools. Solar collectors are also used for early opening and late season use.