Please recommend a VS Pump best suited for my config

Rockstead

Well-known member
Sep 2, 2010
501
Montreal, QC, Canada
Pool Size
100000
Surface
Vinyl
Chlorine
Salt Water Generator
SWG Type
Hayward Aqua Rite (T-15)
Based on my profile list, can you please recommend the best value VS pump and explain why if possible. I’m open to any of these Chinese pumps too if they can be serviced with standard pump parts at my local repair places that do typical Hayward type pumps.

I already have an automation system so not sure it’s worth the extra money on the pumps that include that now, but I’m open to any feedback.

My current 1HP does not cut it and any little pressure increase in the filter results in significant pressure drop for my returns, I figure instead of putting money in another rebuilt 1.5 or 2HP pump, it’s time to jump to a VS, I’m also okay with buying a rebuilt VS on local marketplace, just need model recommendations.

Pool config:
18' x 36" Ovalish 100,000 Litre Vinyl IGP. 2 speed 1HP Hayward pump SP2607X102S. 300 Pound Sand Filter. Summit Sum5 Heat Pump, Goldline Controls Aqua Logic P4 System, T-CELL-15 SWG,
5 x return jets (3 x pool, 2 x stairs)
1 x skimmer
Valve for return jets pool
Valve for return jets stairs
Valve for skimmer
Valve for bottom drain
Valves for heater bypass
 
Based on my profile list, can you please recommend the best value VS pump and explain why if possible. I’m open to any of these Chinese pumps too if they can be serviced with standard pump parts at my local repair places that do typical Hayward type pumps.

I already have an automation system so not sure it’s worth the extra money on the pumps that include that now, but I’m open to any feedback.

My current 1HP does not cut it and any little pressure increase in the filter results in significant pressure drop for my returns, I figure instead of putting money in another rebuilt 1.5 or 2HP pump, it’s time to jump to a VS, I’m also okay with buying a rebuilt VS on local marketplace, just need model recommendations.

Pool config:
18' x 36" Ovalish 100,000 Litre Vinyl IGP. 2 speed 1HP Hayward pump SP2607X102S. 300 Pound Sand Filter. Summit Sum5 Heat Pump, Goldline Controls Aqua Logic P4 System, T-CELL-15 SWG,
5 x return jets (3 x pool, 2 x stairs)
1 x skimmer
Valve for return jets pool
Valve for return jets stairs
Valve for skimmer
Valve for bottom drain
Valves for heater bypass
To get the best performance for your pool, you need a big (2.7 or larger) high-head VSP. Your P4 will only "talk" to a Hayward VSP. The Hayward SuperPump you have now is a medium-head, 2-speed, 1hp (1.50 total horsepower based on the rating plate) pump to begin with. Basically, as you have experienced, a medium-head pump can't overcome the resistance that a high-head one can (dirty filter, etc), though you can stop any pump eventually. It is worse on your pumps low speed.

Published pump curves seem to indicate that the Calimar 3hp VSP is a high-head pump. With the addition of an automation adapter (about $50.00 US) you could have some control with your automation.

As to service, that may be another issue as they are not sold through normal pool-parts distributors. So, many pool companies may not be familiar with them or willing to work on one if they can't source, and then get a warranty on, parts. Many who have posted on this site are very happy with them.
 
To get the best performance for your pool, you need a big (2.7 or larger) high-head VSP. Your P4 will only "talk" to a Hayward VSP. The Hayward SuperPump you have now is a medium-head, 2-speed, 1hp (1.50 total horsepower based on the rating plate) pump to begin with. Basically, as you have experienced, a medium-head pump can't overcome the resistance that a high-head one can (dirty filter, etc), though you can stop any pump eventually. It is worse on your pumps low speed.

Published pump curves seem to indicate that the Calimar 3hp VSP is a high-head pump. With the addition of an automation adapter (about $50.00 US) you could have some control with your automation.

As to service, that may be another issue as they are not sold through normal pool-parts distributors. So, many pool companies may not be familiar with them or willing to work on one if they can't source, and then get a warranty on, parts. Many who have posted on this site are very happy with them.
That’s my concern on both being able to get the calimer serviced, does it use parts that are interchangeable with Hayward or does it used non proprietary type parts that can be sourced?

Which automation adapter are you referring to and what does that allow me to do? Can you link it and tell me where most people are ordering the Calimer from please.

Alternatively I could look for a use rebuilt Hayward VSP, is there a specific model you recommend I look for? That will help a lot in my search.

My P4 isn’t compatible with an internet app and the modules to add one on is astronomical in cost, do any of these VSP pumps provide that functionality or will it drive up my cost too much? I am being used though if I go Hayward.