Pumps and Electrical

[ZcottD]

We currently have an old pump with an old setup for it, 2 plugs and 2 switches, 1 for each.

The plan is to upgrade to a variable speed pump down the road, probably a couple years. But we don't have any outside circuit breaker box or anything. When we go to have the pump replaced we will most likely have to have some type of electrical done to switch from a 115v outlet to a 230v, so I am wondering what should we have done when the time comes.

Just replace the outlet when needed?
Add an outside circuit breaker box?
Cut all the wires out and power a pump with a sack of potatoes?

Thanks.

 

[Phil C]

If you have 4 wires running up the pedestal into your outlets, you'll most likely have 230V available. If, however, there are only 3, (black/white/bare), you have only 110V, and would have to pull new wire through the conduit and attach to a 240V breaker in the main panel. An outside panel likely will not be needed, regardless, but might be a convenience (although a fairly expensive one). You'll be wise to be safe and have a licensed electrician advise you on your best options (fox watching the henhouse?); GFCI breaker is worthwhile, even if there are no code requirements (insurance may govern if no code inspectors are needed).

Potatoes likely won't help, but if your motor is a squirrel-cage induction motor, (SCIM), you may need to stock up on acorns...

 

[ZcottD]

Screw that, acorns are WAY too pricey!

GFCI will definitely happen, and yes all work would be done by a licensed electrician, I know enough to know that I don't know what I'm doing.

Would an outlet with an On/Off switch be needed for a variable speed pump?