How to change speeds on 2 speed pumps?

[Aquatica]

I installed a TriStar dual speed 1.5HP pump. I have it running on the low speed but would like to connect it up so I can select low or high speed as I need high speed for vacuuming.

Do I need some sort of controller to switch speeds? Nothing came with the pump.

 

[Drayken]

Hmmm, do you have a switch that you use, to turn it on and off? My Hayward 2 speed, has a toggle switch, almost like a light switch, but it goes in three positions. Left is low, middle is off, and right is high.

 

[wimpy]

??should be a toggle switch next to service plate.

 

[Drayken]

No, I meant a switch on the pump itself. My pump, has an on/off switch right on it. Was just wondering if they all were that way. Depending if I flip that switch to the left or right, it is on hi or low.

 

[AnnaK]

This may not answer your question but it may be a solution to your issue. I gather you want to switch speeds for the vacuuming process without having to walk back and forth between the vacuum setup and the pump?

We wired an additional on/off switch and mounted it on the pool deck near the skimmer basket. To vacuum, I set the switch on the pump to high. Then I turn the pump off on the deck mounted switch, set up my vacuum equipment, and turn the pump back on, running on high now. When I'm done vacuuming, I turn the pump off, disassemble the vacuum, turn it back on, then walk over to the pump and set its switch back to low.

 

[gordiec]

I'm not familiar with the pump motor (or operating voltage), but maybe this thread will help:
http://www.troublefreepool.com/dual-speed-wiring-question-t14547.html

 

[Aquatica]

Hmmm, do you have a switch that you use, to turn it on and off? My Hayward 2 speed, has a toggle switch, almost like a light switch, but it goes in three positions. Left is low, middle is off, and right is high.

what model Hayward do you have? I was expecting this Tristar to have a switch on the pump so we can select high speed for vacuuming. thats all we need. now I hear we got to buy a $250 controller to change speeds.

 

[Aquatica]

??should be a toggle switch next to service plate.

Thanks for all the replies guys. service plate? wheres that?

the manual is completely useless..just has warnings all through it and thats mostly all.

 

[JasonLion]

You don't need a controller, unless a controller is required to qualify for a rebate or there is some other reason to have an automation system. All you need is a switch. Many two speed motors come with the switch already installed on the motor housing, but not all. If your pump didn't come with a switch, you can always get a switch and mount it in an electrical junction box. You need a single pole double throw switch, typically a center off switch is used. The center/common contact is hooked up to one of the hot wires and the two side terminals are connected to the high and low speed terminals on the motor. The other hot wire goes directly to the common terminal on the motor.

 

[Aquatica]

You don't need a controller, unless a controller is required to qualify for a rebate or there is some other reason to have an automation system. All you need is a switch. Many two speed motors come with the switch already installed on the motor housing, but not all. If your pump didn't come with a switch, you can always get a switch and mount it in an electrical junction box. You need a single pole double throw switch, typically a center off switch is used. The center/common contact is hooked up to one of the hot wires and the two side terminals are connected to the high and low speed terminals on the motor. The other hot wire goes directly to the common terminal on the motor.

Thanks Jason. This would save us some money. I will get my electrician to install a switch. Many thanks!

 

[Aquatica]

Thanks again Jason. you really are a wealth of knowledge! I'm getting that switch installed. trying to keep cost down for my clients and this is a great solution. I need to hire ya!