Replace all equipment. Help!

[Mtomey]

Hi everyone. Our Hayward SWG is a year old (installed by a company) but busted out due to low temperatures while we were away... and making me think it's time to replace everything!

Our electricity company has a promo going on for $300 rebate on a pump (if installed by one of their recommended service providers), so might as well do that? Ours is not too old as in the 7 years we have been here, it was replaced once by a company as the prior one stopped working)

We have been at this house for 7 years so not sure how old the Hayward sand filter is, but we changed the sand 1-2 years ago. The pressure valve does not work and can't be replaced as it's all rusted in that area. I was told cartridge filters are better (and then there are 4 or 1 cartridges).

We have a timer (installed by a company) that controls both the pump and SWG... but we have to go all the way to the back of the house to control it manually.

There used to be a booster pump, so even though it's no longer used, the plumbing and that pump is still there.

From when I started in this forum, I know Jandy is a recommended brand. I have talked to 2 companies and they have provided similar estimates... but my handy husband wants to do it all himself. I don't even know if we can buy the Jandy equipment somewhere.
Update: Jandy just told me all warranty is voided if not installed by a professional.

What do you all recommend? Photos attached.

 

[1poolman1]

Pressure gauge can be replaced, just carefully unthread from the valve, 9/16" wrench. Get rid of that compression union between the filter and pump. The fittings going into the pump should be replaced with a 1.5" CPVC pipe nipple cut in half and not threaded in so far. Just enough to not leak.

Use a union at the filter fittings with the CPVC. Your sand should be good but a cartridge filter of 400 sq. ft. or more is very nice too.

Since you don't have automation, a Waterway Power Defender 165 VSP is a very good option and costs considerably less than other brands if you want to change pumps. If you decide to get a new SWG cell, you can use your existing timer to power it on and off as needed, a VSP has its own timer.

You can just plug the old cleaner fittings (3/4" threaded PVC pipe plug, don't use steel) where the hoses connect and remove the booster pump.

 

[HermanTX]

Our electricity company has a promo going on for $300 rebate on a pump (if installed by one of their recommended service providers), so might as well do that? Ours is not too old as in the 7 years we have been here, it was replaced once by a company as the prior one stopped working)

Does the electric company dictate the brand and type of pump? Or would any variable speed pump meet the requirements? Does your existing pump not function properly (I see it is Hayward but not sure which model). A Jandy or Pentair pump will cost $1500 or more. So while a $300 rebate is nice, there is still a cost involved.

We have been at this house for 7 years so not sure how old the Hayward sand filter is, but we changed the sand 1-2 years ago. The pressure valve does not work and can't be replaced as it's all rusted in that area. I was told cartridge filters are better (and then there are 4 or 1 cartridges).

A large cartridge filter is nice. Depending on which model and size, some have 4 cartridges and others 1.

We have a timer (installed by a company) that controls both the pump and SWG... but we have to go all the way to the back of the house to control it manually.

New VS pumps can set their own schedules and you can use the timer to switch on/off the SWCG. I assume you are replacing that.
If you want remote control such as with an app on your phone then you would need to go to a more sophisticated system. If that is preferred, then match the SWCG with the automation manufacturer so there is capability. Also, Pentair provides 3 yrs warranty if you purchase 3 pieces of equipment, so a pump, SWCG and automation system may qualify.

There used to be a booster pump, so even though it's no longer used, the plumbing and that pump is still there.

The pump can be removed and connect the pipes to create another return to your pool.

but my handy husband wants to do it all himself.

There is a lot of work but doable. If you go with an automation system, you will need an qualified electrician to hook that up. As you noted, Jandy does not like DIYers. Pentair equipment can be purchased from various suppliers for DIY installation.

 

[Mtomey]

Thanks for the detailed response. What's the reason to change to CPVC? - we might be interested in some kind of water heater in the future, if that helps.
My husband says we need to change the entire black part(s) at the top of the filter, can't just replace the pressure gauge as it's damaged (he changed it once before). At times, I have found sand in the pool but my husband thinks is from the floor around the pool. I thought it would be a good time to change to a cartridge filter instead, but it sounds like our best bet is to keep the sand filter.

Really the most important thing is replacing the busted SWG cell. The same model is out of stock and I was recommended the TCELL40. Should I do that or look into Jandy? Should I let my husband install the new SWG (voids the warranty?!) or get a service professional?

I was just looking into replacing the pump to possibly save energy with the variable speed?! and it supposedly comes with the free app to control remotely. I was quoted $2,192 by one company and the other one $1,850 -300 rebate from energy company, to install Jandy 1.65 HP FloPro.

 

[Mtomey]

Does the electric company dictate the brand and type of pump? Or would any variable speed pump meet the requirements? Does your existing pump not function properly (I see it is Hayward but not sure which model). A Jandy or Pentair pump will cost $1500 or more. So while a $300 rebate is nice, there is still a cost involved.


A large cartridge filter is nice. Depending on which model and size, some have 4 cartridges and others 1.


New VS pumps can set their own schedules and you can use the timer to switch on/off the SWCG. I assume you are replacing that.
If you want remote control such as with an app on your phone then you would need to go to a more sophisticated system. If that is preferred, then match the SWCG with the automation manufacturer so there is capability. Also, Pentair provides 3 yrs warranty if you purchase 3 pieces of equipment, so a pump, SWCG and automation system may qualify.


The pump can be removed and connect the pipes to create another return to your pool.


There is a lot of work but doable. If you go with an automation system, you will need an qualified electrician to hook that up. As you noted, Jandy does not like DIYers. Pentair equipment can be purchased from various suppliers for DIY installation.

Requirements for the rebate are upgrade to an ENERGY STAR certified variable-speed pool pump and be installed by one of their participating service providers.

The same service provider quoted me $1,350 for a Jandy CS250 (1 cartridge) and $2,250 for a Jandy CV580 (4 cartridges).

I have heard a little about the automation systems but I am being told by this service provider that the Jandy IQPump mobile app lets me control the pump remotely and the Jandy TruClear 35K ($1,850) would only run when the pump runs.
There is 1 light in the pool but I do not turn it on as I am not confident on the work done by the contractor that replaced the liner, broke our multicolor light and replaced it with 1 color light - we have felt energy in the water and been slightly shocked a couple of times since then. He installed the SWG and did not even explain they run out after 3-4 years.

 

[Mtomey]

The model of our current valve and what our pool looks like (old photo from when booster pump was used for cleaning) 1 skimmer at the bottom and 1 on the left side, 3-4 returns on the right (1 was for the cleaner) - see photos.

 

[HermanTX]

The same service provider quoted me $1,350 for a Jandy CS250 (1 cartridge) and $2,250 for a Jandy CV580 (4 cartridges).

Jandy makes a 340sq ft and a 460sq ft. Either would be fine. 580 is probably an overkill and the 250 is not big enough.
Pentair makes similar size filters as well.

I have heard a little about the automation systems but I am being told by this service provider that the Jandy IQPump mobile app lets me control the pump remotely and the Jandy TruClear 35K ($1,850) would only run when the pump runs.

The IQPump system does work. Pentair has a similar system to control pump only. I would still put a SWCG on the timer as it is not recommended to rely solely on the flow switch as part of the SWCG to ensure SWCG is on or off. The flow switch is the secondary safety feature. The primary safety feature should be the timer. You would need to set the timer such that it is only on when the pump is on.

The Jandy TruClear is not a recommended SWCG as it has had it issues. The Jandy AquaPure 1400 would be the recommended SWCG if you go with Jandy. I did a self install with the Jandy AquaPure system I purchased at Polytec.

Jandy AquaPure Complete System with 14 Blade Cell PLC1400

I used Jandy SWCG because I have a Jandy automation system.

You are not tied to that constraint, so you could use Pentair, Hayward or other 3rd party products.
Refer to this chart for comparison

Compare and Review Saltwater Chlorine Generator Prices and Features | DSP

www.discountsaltpool.com

There is 1 light in the pool but I do not turn it on as I am not confident on the work done by the contractor that replaced the liner, broke our multicolor light and replaced it with 1 color light - we have felt energy in the water and been slightly shocked a couple of times since then. He installed the SWG and did not even explain they run out after 3-4 years.

This is a major safety issue. You need to have a qualified electrician review this. This should be a top priority. If you do not use it, then have it disconnected completely.

 

[Mtomey]

Thanks for all the info. We have a lot to think about, research and do. Really appreciate you all educating me.

 

[Mtomey]

I have spent a lot of time today researching and leaning towards changing all current equipment for $2700 (+ $100 shipping & unknown tax) to include the following
CircuPool 2.0 VS Pump
CircuPool RJ-45 SWCG
CircuPool CJ2750 Filter

I think this move would allow us to self install, maintain warranty (extended 7 years for SWCG!) and save money on the long run (cheaper replacement cell, ongoing savings with VS pump).

Thoughts??

 

[ajw22]

Have you read the Circupool SWG warranty and see how they prorate the years? With the proration all they are basically doing is giving you a bit of a discount on a new SWG.

Circupool warranty is not the same as Pentair in the service you will get on a warranty claim.

 

[Mtomey]

I read about it here in the forums and people seem happy with it... I will be sure to read more about that.
Pentair voids warranty if self-installed, right?

 

[ajw22]

Pentair voids warranty if self-installed, right?

Wrong, Pentair warranty can be 60 days, 1 year, 2 years, or 3 years depending on the equipment and how it is installed.

I suggest you read the warranty in detail if it is important for your buying decision.

Pool Product Warranty Information

Whether you are planning a pool party for friends and family or prefer the serene sensation of a calm pool, Pentair has the pool and spa solutions just for you.

www.pentair.com

 

[Mtomey]

Already did and the chart at the bottom of that page has check marks indicating "REQUIRES PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION". If it's voided or limited to 60 days only, I think we would prefer more. Thank you!

 

[Newdude]

If it's voided or limited to 60 days only, I think we would prefer more

Price it all out both ways. When I replaced my SWG several years ago, I got it online for half the cost of the PBs. I gambled that even if it was a factory dud, I could buy a 2nd and still break even. I moved but it lasted through the full warranty period and I saved $750.

 

[ajw22]

Already did and the chart at the bottom of that page has check marks indicating "REQUIRES PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION". If it's voided or limited to 60 days only, I think we would prefer more. Thank you!

60 days from Pentair where they send an authorized repairman to you may be better than NONE from a mail order shop where you need to ship defective devices to them.

As long as your buying decision is based on no warranty or a warranty claim taking weeks then you will not be disappointed.

Most warranty claims are due to infant mortality or installation. Check what you can do with the retailer you buy from on return privileges.