Planning for SWG Install: should I wire for continuous power?

[SWATC]

I just purchased the RJ60+, I have a VS pump. I asked CircuPool rep at discountsaltpools and they advised me the correct way to install was to wire SWCG direct for continuous power and rely on the flow switch. Has anyone had any issues with their CircuPool SWCG doing installing like this?

 

[ajw22]

Flow switch’s have been known to fail. Flow switch should be your backup safety device, not your primary.

Wire your SWG to a timer or run your VS pump 24/7 at low speed and wire the SWG to the pump power line.

 

[Jimrahbe]

What Allen said...
Never just rely on the flow switch..

Jim R.

 

[SWATC]

Ok thanks, I dont know why the company would recommend just relying on flow switch.

 

[SWATC]

Is wiring a timer from the breaker box difficult? I assume there are some guides on here.

 

[jeffnhispool]

It's not difficult if you're comfortable working in a service or sub panel but unless you're plan is to give it its own circuit/breaker I'd tie it in at a junction box outside the panel. I also believe doubling up branch circuits on one breaker (inside the panel) is not code (certainly not SOP) but then so is running most anything else on a circuit with a motor, yet it's done.

 

[SWATC]

I guess my plan was to give the timer it’s own breaker. What would the purpose of using a junction box?

 

[Teald024]

Hello and Welcome to TFP!

Depending on the timer you use, the timer typically needs to go in a box (junction box). What timer are you using?
TFP does not have install guides. You can probably find some threads on the forum where other members described how they did the install.
Be cautious though, you should be knowledgeable of the electric codes in your area. If not, it may be better to have the timer professionally installed.

 

[SWATC]

Haven’t bought one yet. Any recommendations?

 

[ajw22]

Haven’t bought one yet. Any recommendations?

You mean timer? Intermatic T104 is the workhorse timer if you are wiring the RJ30 for 240V.

 

[SWATC]

Yes and thanks. Will be RJ60+ but I assume no different.

 

[jeffnhispool]

If there's space for another breaker then ther3s no reason not to add it assuming the panel location lends itself to safely feeding in a new wire. Often though, it's easier to tie in elsewhere to an existing circuit with enough remaining capacity. My statement was out of an abundance of caution, not knowing anyone's level of expertise, not to add it to another breaker in the box or to the branch circuit that runs your pump.

 

[SWATC]

Thanks, yes there is room for another breaker. I think Ill just get an electrician, no experience with electrical work..

 

[SWATC]

Took another look. Doesnt look like there are any spare CB... Can I hook this up to the existing pump CB?

 

[ajw22]

Took another look. Doesnt look like there are any spare CB... Can I hook this up to the existing pump CB?

I think code requires pump CB to be dedicated.

 

[jeffnhispool]

I'm with ajw22 on this. Interestly enough, I just opened the manual for my CircuPool SWG and it has a diagram suggesting it be added to the load side of your pool pump timer. This is not something I would ever do or recommend and while I'm sure there are electricians who would install it this way I am curious as to whether it would get through inspection.

 

[SWATC]

Thanks. I’ll go with the 104 timer and have an electrician install. How do I know which size to purchase? 240/120?

 

[Dave31410]

I am making a similar addition since the pool builder wire the SWCG directly. However I am getting an Intermatic 1100 series electronic timer with battery backup. My pump control also has battery backup. That way in case of power interruption, they will both keep correct time and not get out of phase.

 

[SWATC]

Where did you purchase it and what did it cost?
How do they hold up compared to the 104

 

[chiefwej]

I trust the old mechanical timers over the electronic ones. I had two on my previous pool, and one on the current one. In twenty five years, with two pools and three separate timers, I have had to replace one clock motor. Although I have surge protection, I’m still a bit concerned about electronic pool controls.