Help!! On replacing filter and pump

[westc]

I currently have an old old Pac Fab Superflow sand filter (off top of my head can't remember whether its a 35 or 50). I am looking to replace the filter and the pump as its becoming very hard to keep the filter cobbled together. What is recommended to be the best sand filter to use? What about a pump? What size? The pool is approx. 27,000 gallons. The filter and pump also sits about 6 feet higher in elevation that the skimmer on the pool. It is often dificult to get a prime on it and get it going. Is there a good source for these things or is it just as reasonable (price) to purchase from a pool store.

***NOTE: I have to use a sidemount control valve....not enough height clearance!!

Also, when I purchased the house with the pool, the servicing pool store recommended that I keep the pump running 24/7 during the season. Does this sound correct or maybe just because it may be undersized? Pool Store says "everyone in this area runs the pump 24/7". With it being so difficult to get a prime even after only shutting down for a few minutes, I can't imagine putting it on a timer or turning off daily... Any and all advice is VERY appreciated!!

 

[Bama Rambler]

I'd recommend the Pentair Triton II and a Whisperflo 2-speed pump. Either the TR-60 or TR-80 and the WFDS-4 or WFDS-26 pump.

Running your pump 24/7 is probably overkill and if your current pump is a single speed it's definitely overkill.

 

[westc]

Yes. My current pump is a single speed. I have thought about trying to only run part of the day, but it takes so long to regain a prime on it....

 

[Bama Rambler]

Do you have any leaks in the system anywhere?

 

[westc]

No leaks anywhere that I can find. Once primed, the pump and filter runs fine...water level in pool doesn't drop either. I'm thinking its because the pump is so far from the skimmer and main drain and sits so much higher than either of them.??

 

[Bama Rambler]

It may be that the pump is wearing out and just has a hard time priming. The new pumps are really good at priming at higher heads.

Do you have any water features? (Fountain, waterfall, etc?)

 

[westc]

OK. I have no water features; just main drain, skimmer, 2 returns, and the pressure side return for the cleaner (seperate booster pump).

 

[Bama Rambler]

Then I stand by my pump & filter recommendations.

 

[westc]

What about the Intelliflo pumps?

 

[Bama Rambler]

The Intelliflo's are great pumps but unless you have water features or a spa, or your power rates are fairly high, they're not usually worth the added expense.

 

[westc]

OK. I truly appreciate your help and advice!

 

[westc]

Probaly going to go with a Triton II TR-60 w/ ClearPro...I don't see where the TR-80 is available with ClearPro. What is the difference in the 2 pumps you recommended?

 

[Bama Rambler]

The part numbers.

Yeah, they're the same pump. :? Some people carry one but not the other so it gives you a choice.