Limiting GPM to Heater

[Glitterbub]

I've calculated the head on my system using gauges and referenced the performance charts for my pumps. I can easily exceed the maximum 125 GPM for my heater. All filtered water runs through the heater regardless of whether or not it is on.

The PB plumbed an "overflow" bypass using a check valve. That is, water comes from the pump and into the heater via a horizontal pipe. Just before it goes into the heater, there's a "T." The vertical pipe has a check valve and then connects to the pipe leading to the SWG, just like the pipe coming out of the heater does. This way, if the pump is putting out more water than the heater can handle, it goes down the vertical pipe and rejoins just before the SWG.

I understand the logic behind it, but feel like there should be a better way to do this. My two solutions, and don't know if either is really possible are:
1. Some kind of 3" spring loaded bypass that we can tune.
2. Valve that routes water around the heater when it's not in use. Opens when we want to turn the heater on and then we programmatically limit the speed of the pump.

Any ideas? Leave as is?

 

[ajw22]

I understand the logic behind it, but feel like there should be a better way to do this.

Heater Bypass - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

My two solutions, and don't know if either is really possible are:
1. Some kind of 3" spring loaded bypass that we can tune.

Bypass Valve Kit (# STK0135)

• When high flow rates are outside recommended specifications, please use this kit or an alternative bypass valve system.
• This kit can be used to control excessive water flow through the heat pump. It provides automatic flow adjustments for most applications.

Available Accessories

2. Valve that routes water around the heater when it's not in use. Opens when we want to turn the heater on and then we programmatically limit the speed of the pump.

Pentair has the AUTOMATIC BY-PASS VALVE KIT (P/N 462048) FOR MASTERTEMP® AND MAX-E-THERM® POOL AND SPA HEATERS

 

[pjt]

I would suggest a proper external bypass. Can you share some pictures of your current setup? The bypass will be open when the heater is off. When you're using the heater, close the bypass and adjust the pump RPM to achieve the desired flow.

 

[Glitterbub]

We have an issue with the heater and it’s getting swapped out. I’ve asked them to flip the exchanger around so they don’t have to “pipe around” if that makes sense.

Automated valve sounds like the only option at this point.