Complete Equipment Renovation - Any Suggestions?

[teaker]

Hey TFPers!

I am planning on replacing most, if not all, of my pool equipment and am looking for any advice or suggestions you might have. The pump currently works but is very loud. I just figure it might as well be replaced when everything else is (plus, my utility company is currently offering a $400 rebate for energy-star pumps). The heater is totally rusted and falling apart inside so it must go. The filter valve is cracked in multiple places, so it needs to be replaced as well.

We don't use the heater to heat the pool - just the hot tub when we want to use it. We really only use the pool during the summer months, but keep it open year-around (including during winters to keep the pipes from freezing). The pool is below my neighbor's large tree that constantly drops debris into it - I feel like I use more chlorine in the summers than I should have to (using the TFP method).

Current Setup:
18,000 gal gunite pool w/ hot tub and two small, low-volume waterfalls
Pentair Whisperflo Pump 1 HP - Model WF-24
Versa Millivolt heater
Hayward S244S sand filter (I can/will keep this unless a change is necessary)

I plan on buying the equipment as cheap as possible online and then having it professionally installed for warranty purposes. On that note, in your experience, are most plumbers proficient when it comes to pool plumbing, or do you recommend going with a pool company/specialist?

I would greatly appreciate any suggestions you might have regarding equipment to consider, upgrades, etc.

Thank you! Please let me know if you need any more info!

 

[Texas Splash]

Welcome! Much of what you are suggesting you can certainly do yourself if you have a little DIY ability in you. Things you can do include:
- Cutting & re-doing PVC lines for equipment
- Purchasing your own replacement pump (variable speed or perhaps just a 2-speed and installing it
- Replacing the multiport valve on that filter; do a deep clean & inspect the laterals if necessary
- Remove the heater and replace with PVC lines since you don't use it anyways.

These are fairly straight-forward DIY items many others do here everyday and can save you quite a few $$$$. When you get ready to tackle any any of those issues, let us know if you have a problem. Members will be glad to help.

 

[jimmythegreek]

I'm pretty sure that having a plumber install equipment wont get you warranty coverage. I think they have to be authorized for the brand of equipment someone else would know for sure. Looks like a decent layout now I'd find out from your local pool companies what their policy is in owner purchased equip. I know around me a pro will charge higher labor rates since they're not profiting on the equip end of deal.