I currently have my pump running 12 hours a day at speed of 2250 rpms. It is still swim season down here in Houston and, weather permitting, I intend to keep the pool open for another 2-3 weeks. What are the proper time and speed settings for my pump during pool season and the off season?
Pool Pump Speed and Time
- Thread starter 00xavier
- Start date
Trial and error. There is no right answer. Likely 12 hours is way more than enough. See the article in the How To section of Pool School.
- May 3, 2007
- 16,842
- Pool Size
- 20000
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Hayward Aqua Rite (T-15)
It really depends on what falls in the pool. I find that sometimes my pool needs more run time in the winter/fall than the summer due to leaf fall. But most pools should not need more than about 6 hours of run time and many can get away with 4 hours or less. Remember run time is mostly for removing debris from the pool (see run time study in my sig). Also circulation doesn't require that much time.
As for speed, 1000 RPM is the most efficient speed for a VS but doesn't always provide enough flow rate for the skimmers to work properly so you may need to do some experimentation.
That could be a problem for you long term. Are you checking your CYA regularly? Pools that do not close are more susceptible to high CYA when using a chlorinator.
Thanks for your help and the run time study. Yes I am checking my CYA levels frequently. I recently switched to the BBB Method and I am using liquid beach.