Pump Blues

[nightswimming]

Please allow I am a 1st time poster and not versed in proper rules I'm sure.
My pump is 4.5 years old and had motor replaced a year ago. It seems to be working fine (2hp single sp pentair) I want a more efficient unit with programable timer for dummies.
It is my understanding the var. speed is more expensive and I'm ok with that if it meets my needs. My kw/r is 12 cents give or take and I run all year but only swim during summer with no heater or h tub. These last few mo.s (Tx) have been costly with sub freezing temp.s for days at a time $$$$$. Is the VS pump worth the xtra or is a two speed gonna do it?

 

[Isaac-1]

Welcome, 2 speed will likely be fine, in fact you can most likely retrofit yours with a 2 speed motor and external timer / switch to control it. (some 2 speed motors have a switch on the end of the cover, some require an external switch to change speeds). For mechanical timers we usually suggest intermatic brand timers.

Ike

p.s. what sort of features?

 

[nightswimming]

Many thanks Ike. We have 2 small waterfalls and 1 small bubbler. Your suggestions are well received. Replacing the motor only was not considered. My next chore will be acquiring a reputable tech to do the work. The market here presents limited options. And why my PB did not suggest a 2 speed is questionable, although it appears they did a good job with no prob.s to date. Thanks again.

 

[Isaac-1]

So what part of Texas are you in? (putting region in your profile will help us give better advice, as conditions in the panhandle are different than the gulf coast, etc.

 

[nightswimming]

East Tx. Thanks Ike, my intentions are to polish my profile etc. and utilize this forum. My knowledge vs money spent building/maintaining the pool is inversely proportional at this time. I hope to improve on this.

 

[bobodaclown]

We all started with limited knowledge and built it up over time. I agree with Issac that a two-speed motor would be the way to go. Some places (such as my local Pinch-A-Penny) will allow you to bring your motor end in and will swap it over for a nominal fee, when you bring the replacement motor, or replace it free if you purchase the motor from them.
Depends on your skill level and what you're comfortable with.
At $0.12 a KWH the 2-speed makes the most sense. Use low when your just running the skimmer and no water features, high when you want the full shabang!