Can Two x 1 1/2 inch suctions equal One x 2 inch return?

[GaryV512]

Hi there, I’m doing some pool upgrades. I recently removed an aging single speed Hayward 1.5hp super pump, and added a new 3hp VS pump. Also changing from an aging Pentair TA60D sand filter to a Waterway 425 cartridge filter. The existing plumbing is all 1 1/2 inch, I have a skimmer suction line and drain suction line. And 1 1/2 inch return line. (The return line runs above ground due to prior owner repairs, so a switch to 2 inch would be easy). No other frills, pumps, lights, fountains, etc.

I’m wondering if I can feasibly, without creating plumbing or flow issues, adapt the two 1 1/2 suction lines into a single 2 inch line into the pump and thru the new filter, and a new 2 inch return line to the pool?

Thanks for offered advice…
G

 

[Bperry]

Hi there, I’m doing some pool upgrades. I recently removed an aging single speed Hayward 1.5hp super pump, and added a new 3hp VS pump. Also changing from an aging Pentair TA60D sand filter to a Waterway 425 cartridge filter. The existing plumbing is all 1 1/2 inch, I have a skimmer suction line and drain suction line. And 1 1/2 inch return line. (The return line runs above ground due to prior owner repairs, so a switch to 2 inch would be easy). No other frills, pumps, lights, fountains, etc.

I’m wondering if I can feasibly, without creating plumbing or flow issues, adapt the two 1 1/2 suction lines into a single 2 inch line into the pump and thru the new filter, and a new 2 inch return line to the pool?

Thanks for offered advice…
G

Yes you can do that, though probably unnecessary. The new VS pump is designed to be abke to run very slow, which tends to filter better and save lots of electricity and hence money. At low pressures the pipes are plenty large enough, but increasing wont hurt anything.