Pump selection

[Noorm]

Need to replace fried 2 speed pump. Among variables, is there a consensus as to preferred brand? Jandy, Hayward, or Pentair?
I'm being told that it's essential to replace the existing breakers with a specific type that's approved for the variable pump, but I see people who self installed saying the just connected the existing wires. How critical is the breaker issue? Having replaced the old Hayward pump and/or motor a couple of times myself, the $7-800 variable speed installation cost by pool pros seems excessive??

 

[chiefwej]

I replaced a 15 year old Hayward single speed with a Pentair Intelliflo VS a few years ago. Did not change any breakers, but I did add a surge protector to the pool breaker panel. The old pump was switched by an Intermatic timer. I just moved the wires from the load (switched) side to the hot (unswitched) side. It has worked perfectly.

 

[Noorm]

I replaced a 15 year old Hayward single speed with a Pentair Intelliflo VS a few years ago. Did not change any breakers, but I did add a surge protector to the pool breaker panel. The old pump was switched by an Intermatic timer. I just moved the wires from the load (switched) side to the hot (unswitched) side. It has worked perfectly.

Thanks, that's good to know.Appreciate your response!

 

[guinness]

A lot of people here lean towards Pentair, followed by Hayward. The problem is that while you can order online (and save money) and install yourself you end up with only a 60 day warranty. If you get it professionally installed you then get the year or two warranty but it obviously ends up costing more.

Pool Product Warranty Information

Pentair delivers smart, sustainable solutions that empower our customers to make the most of life's essential resource. At Pentair, we believe the health of our world depends on reliable access to clean water.

www.pentair.com

 

[frankofiore]

I went with the Hayward Tristar 2.7HP VS.... not that happy with it. The motor drive unit crapped out after only a few months. After doing some research, seems to be a common problem. Luckily still was under warranty.

 

[Noorm]

Need to replace fried 2 speed pump. Among variables, is there a consensus as to preferred brand? Jandy, Hayward, or Pentair?
I'm being told that it's essential to replace the existing breakers with a specific type that's approved for the variable pump, but I see people who self installed saying the just connected the existing wires. How critical is the breaker issue? Having replaced the old Hayward pump and/or motor a couple of times myself, the $7-800 variable speed installation cost by pool pros seems excessive??

I went with the Hayward Tristar 2.7HP VS.... not that happy with it. The motor drive unit crapped out after only a few months. After doing some research, seems to be a common problem. Luckily still was under warranty.

Someone mentioned INYO and I see they offer 2 year DIY warranty on their Waterway PD140 variable. Any idea whether that's a quality unit?

 

[beegee226]

Someone mentioned INYO and I see they offer 2 year DIY warranty on their Waterway PD140 variable. Any idea whether that's a quality unit?

I have that Waterway and I'm happy with it. It does the job just fine and I installed it myself.

 

[Noorm]

I have that Waterway and I'm happy with it. It does the job just fine and I installed it myself.

Thanks for the feedback. Sounds like that will be my choice.

 

[chiefwej]

In order to get a full warranty from Pentair you need to send in a receipt for “professional installation“. That can be from a pool service, electrician, plumber, basically any related ”professional“. If you have a friend who can double check your work and present you a bill, that’s a “professional install”. It was a couple years ago, but that worked for me. I got the full warranty and a rebate that was in effect at the time.

I don’t know if they have tightened up their policy now. Some companies are refusing to honor any warranty for products purchased online. (I’m looking at you Maytronics)

edit: per Pentair site
**Note: Qualified Installer - Defined as a licensed professional who charges a fee for his services, and possesses a business license, contractor's license and/or resale permit. Common examples of a "qualified installer" include: Swimming Pool, Home Repair or Landscape Professional; Plumber or Electrician; General Contractor; Heating and Air Conditioning Specialist.