Converting to SWG - do I need a VS pump?

[Salbailey]

Hi Everyone - This weekend we are replacing the liner in our pool and figured this was a good time to also convert over/install SWG. We currently have the Pentair 1 hp Sand Dollar pump - 1 speed - and in the past have run it 24/7 to keep the pool balanced. I have been looking on Amazon at variable speed pumps but since ours came as a set with the sand filter, are we stuck starting over or is it possible to replace just the pump? Thanks!!

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

You don't need a VS pump. Select a SWG rated at 40K gallons and you should be able to generate enough daily FC by running the pump less than 8 hours.

 

[Jimrahbe]

Sal,

If you have been running 24/7, then there is just no reason to stop...

If you had been running for say 6 or 8 hours a day, then getting a VS might make sense. But if you are comfortable with the cost to run 24/7, then I would not change a thing..

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[Salbailey]

Ok yes, the pump we have is pretty loud and probably bigger than we needed originally so we would LOVE to not run it 24/7… If you are saying this will be fine to keep and we will eventually get to where we may not need to run it all the time?? That would be so great!

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

You really don't need to run the pump 24/7. With a SWG, you will need to run at least the amount of time it takes to generate FC for the day.

Check out this article:

Determine Pump Run Time

To figure out how many hours you need to run your pump, you need to know how fast your pump works. You can find this here.

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Salbailey]

Another question, looking at other threads, I see that you (generally) recommend the Circupool RJ series… Is there a reason you like that series and not the others? The reason I ask is because I’m looking on Amazon and I can’t get some until way into late next week. I don’t know if local pool supply stores sell these! Thank you!

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

The CircuPool has proven to be reliable and has received many positive reviews here on tfp. It has a good warranty that is DIY install friendly. The vendor I purchased from is Discount Salt Pool, which is basically CircuPool's storefront. They offer outstanding customer support and warranty service. The vendor offers a $10 upgrade to the next unit up in the line. I believe they are also on sale at this time.

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

I just checked...the RJ45 is on sale $1,200 now with the upgrade from the RJ30. That's about $200 less than I paid 3 years ago.

CircuPool RJ-30 PLUS Saltwater Chlorinator | Discount Salt Pool

www.discountsaltpool.com

 

[PoolStored]

Circupool RJ series

Because it is adjustable in 5% increments...most of the others are 10 and 20 and 25% increments. I didn't want to have to change output all the time with seesawing FC. 5% increments reduce the number of times I need to adjust output. RJ has been a real workhorse. Will buy again...

 

[Jimrahbe]

Sal,

Sorry, I thought you 'wanted' to run 24/7...

I love running 24/7, but I have a VS pump, and I like making a little chlorine all the time.

If I had a single speed pump, I'd run for the shortest amount of time it took for the cell to make the chlorine I needed each day.

Thanks,

Jim R.