Pentair Sta-rite 1.5 hp pump

[jaydar]

I was just reading another threat about high electric bills and pool pump run time and speed settings.

My bill is FPL and when running pool and A/C the bill is around $200 a month.Is there a way that I can turn my single speed pump into a 2 speed or variable speed? The pump actually uses morejuice than my A/C does.It would be nice to lower the bill.

 

[JamesW]

The cheapest and easiest solution would be to replace the impeller (and possibly the diffuser) with a 3/4 hp impeller. That would allow your pump to run cooler and use less power by reducing the workload by reducing the flow rate. Other than that, you would need to go to a two speed or variable speed pump.

http://www.pentairpool.com/pdfs/DuraGlasOM.pdf

 

[jaydar]

There must be some sort of conversion kit that can turn this pump into 2 speed or variable speed........What about an external speed dial...kind of like an electrical throttle?

I'm not flush enough to drop $800 - $1200 on a new pump

 

[JamesW]

If your motor is a single phase Permanent Split Capacitor induction motor, then you might be able to use a 220V Optidrive E2 to control the motor speed. If it is an A.O Smith motor, the motor "Type" might be listed as "CX", which would indicate a PSC (Permanent Split Capacitor) switchless design. However, the cost of the controller ($525.00 list) is more than buying a new motor and impeller.

http://www.anaconsystems.com/text/opti_e2.html

http://www.anaconsystems.com/data/opti_e2.pdf

 

[JasonLion]

You can always change out the motor, leaving the rest of the pump in place. Two speed motors are available to fit almost any pump. You wan to get a motor that is the same HP on high speed and the same frame size.

 

[Bama Rambler]

As Jason said, A simple motor change is the most cost effective way to get a 2-speed pump. Be sure to use the HP x SF to get the motor size. For instance, if you have a 1½ hp with a SF of 1, you could replace it with a 1 hp with a SF of 1.5.

You're going to have to take the pump apart to change it so be mindful of the o-rings and gaskets. Personally I'd change the shaft seal while I was in there.

 

[Brentr]

jaydar I would be interested in which way you went. I have considered replacing my 1.5hp Sta-rite with a 2 speed.