Going down the Automation path

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C

carlosmp

0
Jul 8, 2009
11
Pool Size
13500
Surface
Plaster
Chlorine
Salt Water Generator
SWG Type
Jandy Truclear / Ei
Hi,

I have a pool that's a little over 2.5 years old. At less than a year, the original pump started failing, where the pool vac (Dorado) would not move, the pressure in filter housing would get up in the 20 PSI (with new filter). Turned out it was a seal in motor, which they replaced under warranty. It appears to have started again, where I cleaned the filter, got a bit better, but the PSI is above 10. On average in the past it was always well below 10, so I suspect I'll have to

I'm at the point, where I think replacing the single speed 3/4 HP may be best. My hope was to get something that I can do some automation/remote power with. Since everything I have is JandyPro Series, I think I should probably stay there for simplicity. Seems the iQPump01 may be "best" start, since it seems pretty inexpensive. I would also like to upgrade our lights (since one of them lost one of the colors).

Pool has no features (fountains, spas) so I don't think I really need anything crazy I feel that the 3/4 is a bit on the low end since I can't seem to ever be able to run the vacuum and the drain/skimmer without having the drain and skimmer at practically closed. According to the drawing submitted, it was designed with a 40GPM filtration rate, and 5.6Hrs turnover.

In the end, I was considering the VSFloPro 1.85HP, since it has the two aux relays. I was hoping I could prevent changing the basket, etc. since it's more than likely the same? My current pump model is a FHPM.75 with a Century Pump.

Anything else I should consider?

TIA,
 
If the pressure is going up, there is nothing wrong with the pump, its doing what it was designed to do, keep moving water as the filter get dirty. Dirty filter=higher pressure.
The iQpump01 is just the interface, you would also need a new Jandy VSP, not inexpensive. Cost for both ( Jandy VSP do not come with an interface) $1500-1800. Not sold online.
You don't need the main drain open with a pool cleaner, only the skimmer.
 
I've had our pool now for about 2.5years. It's mostly Jandy, so I think I'm looking at the Jandy Aquiline RS. I'm trying to put together the shopping list, and wondering if I'm missing anything. My current setup has an Intermatic box with timer and 2 switches (pump, lights). I'm guessing I don't need a "sub-panel" style power center, since my pool sub-panel is sitting right next to it, and has plenty of power 80A feed).

I only have the pump (Single Speed .75HP), swg (TruClear) , and 2xJandy lights. I'd love to have a heat pump in the future, but maybe next year. I was considering the iQPump01, but since that can't control lights, figure not worth it. Looking to replace the single speed pump with a variable flow down the road. We run the pump for about 8 hours a day. The other item I was hoping to add, and would use the last relay would be an acid feeder...

- RS-P4 - Pump, Heater w 3AUX.
- iQ30 - To get mobile access
- 6614AP - Power Center w/SWG

TIA
 
You really have nothing that locks you into Jandy automation right now.

I suggest you look at moving to Pentair automation and equipment. Jandy is not friendly to the owner DIY customer. Pentair IntelliCenter is a much better system then the Aqualink. Pentair HP selection is better then Jandy and works better with their automation.

Over the last few years I moved all my equipment to Pentair and replaced my old Aqualink with the IntelliCenter. Don't get me wrong, Jandy stuff will work ok, but I think you will have a better experience with Pentair stuff.

Pentair Automation Systems - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com www.troublefreepool.com

Pentair IntelliFlo Pumps - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com www.troublefreepool.com
 
I figured the motor was not working at full capacity, as the flow was very low, and even a weak pump can build up pressure over time. I have a new filter on the way, and decided to run a quick test. I pulled the filter completely out, and ran the pump. Pressure was down to practically nothing and flow was great. So I cleaned the filter again, not much really (as I cleaned it yesterday), and popped it back in. Pressure stayed in the 2-4PSI range, and everything seems ok. 20-30 minutes later (went out to clean salt cell) pressure was back up to 12psi. This just feels like the same issues I previously had when the pump was starting to fail last time.

I'm also looking at a heat pump soon, and figure with more bends, etc. will need something with more flow. Easier (on wallet) to replace pump now, and then add the heat pump.

So then back to there original question, can the same filter basket be used with the 1.85 Variable motor? or am I not really "married" to Jandy, and should explore other options...
 
I am staring to go down the automation path, and found some interesting things on the acid feeders. The Pentair recommends 1:1 dilution for "full strength" muriatic acid. The Jandy TrueDose says 4:1. What does "full-strength" mean? if I buy 31.45% is that already 3:1? (give or take) Are they mistakenly using HydroChloric as "pure"?

Also noticed that in the IntelliPh (Standalone) they recommend the pump getting replaced yearly. I find that a bit odd too...

TIA,
 
I thought I was sort of stuck because of the true clear SWG. Need to see since most of the acid feeders I find "need" a particular SWG so may not really be stuck. Hate how my original $2k estimate is now turning into a > $3k hit with acid feeder, new SWG, etc... :).
 
You can run the TruClear SWG like you run it now until the cell needs to be replaced. Then get a different SWG more compatible with the automation you choose.
 
Another option is the Pentair IntelliConnect which is their budget automation, but it works for basic pool setups.


It would simply take the place of your Intermatic box with timer and 2 switches (pump, lights) as it has two relays.

But it can also control an IntelliFlo, IntelliChlor and heater going forward. It is also WiFi enabled so you get mobile access.

intelliconnect-png.424231
 
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carlosmp said:
I figured the motor was not working at full capacity, as the flow was very low, and even a weak pump can build up pressure over time. I have a new filter on the way, and decided to run a quick test. I pulled the filter completely out, and ran the pump. Pressure was down to practically nothing and flow was great. So I cleaned the filter again, not much really (as I cleaned it yesterday), and popped it back in. Pressure stayed in the 2-4PSI range, and everything seems ok. 20-30 minutes later (went out to clean salt cell) pressure was back up to 12psi. This just feels like the same issues I previously had when the pump was starting to fail last time.

I'm also looking at a heat pump soon, and figure with more bends, etc. will need something with more flow. Easier (on wallet) to replace pump now, and then add the heat pump.

So then back to there original question, can the same filter basket be used with the 1.85 Variable motor? or am I not really "married" to Jandy, and should explore other options...
Click to expand...
Filters are independent pieces of equipment. There is no electronics to it - just flow in and flow out. You can mix and match as you wish with any pump. If you willing to upgrade to a full variable speed pump then go to the 2.8HP. You will not run it at that top output but you have the capability if needed. Since you already have Jandy SWCG, the VS pump will be ideal to run at low speed majority of time to produce chlorine then run at higher speeds when you run your suction cleaner via the skimmer.

You have a Jandy SWG so it would make since to go with Jandy pump and if you want to go to full automation then Jandy has that. I have Jandy automation but it operates a Pentair VS pump and I have just purchased a Jandy SWCG to hook up to it. The downside to Jandy is that you have to go through a dealer to get the 3 yr warranty. I elected that because I do not wish to change out my automation.

If I was starting from scratch (no automation) I would go to Pentair and slowly change over other components.

The alternative option which if you wish to change to Pentair over time - Purchase a Pentair VS pump now, plan to purchase a Pentair automation system in future, and when your Jandy SWCG reaches end of life (hopefully 3-4 years from now - that would put it at nearly 7 years total if it can make it) replace it with a Pentair SWCG - then you have Pentair VS, Automation and SWCG.

Don’t mean to confuse you but wish to layout some options dependent on your needs and budget - however a VS pump (of any mfg) would be the best first move to lower your energy costs and improve your system.
 
The Jandy manual said it needed the AquaPure, not sure if it can be "skipped". My FC levels are ok 2.5-4 so not too concerned. pH is the one that needs help, and having to add 2 cups a week is getting old.
 
HermanTX said:
Filters are independent pieces of equipment. There is no electronics to it - just flow in and flow out. You can mix and match as you wish with any pump. If you willing to upgrade to a full variable speed pump then go to the 2.8HP. You will not run it at that top output but you have the capability if needed. Since you already have Jandy SWCG, the VS pump will be ideal to run at low speed majority of time to produce chlorine then run at higher speeds when you run your suction cleaner via the skimmer.

You have a Jandy SWG so it would make since to go with Jandy pump and if you want to go to full automation then Jandy has that. I have Jandy automation but it operates a Pentair VS pump and I have just purchased a Jandy SWCG to hook up to it. The downside to Jandy is that you have to go through a dealer to get the 3 yr warranty. I elected that because I do not wish to change out my automation.

If I was starting from scratch (no automation) I would go to Pentair and slowing change over other components.

The alternative option which if you wish to change to Pentair over time - Purchase a Pentair VS pump now, plan to purchase a Pentair automation system in future, and when your Jandy SWCG reaches end of life (hopefully 3-4 years from now - that would put it at nearly 7 years total if it can make it) replace it with a Pentair SWCG - then you have Pentair VS, Automation and SWCG.

Don’t mean to confuse you but wish to layout some options dependent on your needs and budget - however a VS pump (of any mfg) would be the best first move to lower your energy costs and improve your system
Click to expand...
HermanTX said:
Filters are independent pieces of equipment. There is no electronics to it - just flow in and flow out. You can mix and match as you wish with any pump. If you willing to upgrade to a full variable speed pump then go to the 2.8HP. You will not run it at that top output but you have the capability if needed. Since you already have Jandy SWCG, the VS pump will be ideal to run at low speed majority of time to produce chlorine then run at higher speeds when you run your suction cleaner via the skimmer.

You have a Jandy SWG so it would make since to go with Jandy pump and if you want to go to full automation then Jandy has that. I have Jandy automation but it operates a Pentair VS pump and I have just purchased a Jandy SWCG to hook up to it. The downside to Jandy is that you have to go through a dealer to get the 3 yr warranty. I elected that because I do not wish to change out my automation.

If I was starting from scratch (no automation) I would go to Pentair and slowing change over other components.

The alternative option which if you wish to change to Pentair over time - Purchase a Pentair VS pump now, plan to purchase a Pentair automation system in future, and when your Jandy SWCG reaches end of life (hopefully 3-4 years from now - that would put it at nearly 7 years total if it can make it) replace it with a Pentair SWCG - then you have Pentair VS, Automation and SWCG.

Don’t mean to confuse you but wish to layout some options dependent on your needs and budget - however a VS pump (of any mfg) would be the best first move to lower your energy costs and improve your system.
Click to expand...
Filter was not going to be changed, and is not "locking" me in. the SWG is sort of the only thing, but seems that if I want to do an acid feeder, I have to make a change.

Jandy version seems to require too much dilution of the Acid, and since I'm adding 2 cups a week on average, that would mean I would need to fill the 5 gallon tank every 8 weeks. The Pentair 4 Gallon tank would be every 16 weeks, since it's a 1:1 dilution. I don't like how the acid pump seems to need replacing every year.

Pump - it will all depend on how much it actually comes to. I am a bit skeptical about the savings (not sure I'd see the $1k/year savings), but would love to be able to run it lower for most of the "day" just to move the water, then run it full tilt early AM to clean, etc. Great, just added more controller valves to the project... :)

Several people have recommended the Pentair stuff now, and will start looking into it.
 
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