Spa spillway control

[Bhebert449]

We have decided to go with a variable speed pump and need some info on how to plumb the spa to have the ability to independently control the flow of the spillway.

I understand in order to take advantage of the low flow of the variable speed pump I should request a spa "make-up" line in order to run in "spillway mode" Is there a plumbing diagram for this? Essentially 3 modes, spa mode, pool mode and spillway mode.

Thanks

 

[kimkats]

I don't have a diagram but will try to use words and give you info to help you work it out with your plumber.

You will control what does what when with valves. Each thing should have it's own valve. Each skimmer should have it's own valve. The main drain should be on it's own valve. Your spa=same thing. That way you can control what goes where and at what degree.

I would ask to sit down with your plumber and go over what you want to do with him. See what he has to say.

Kim

 

[bdavis466]

You don't need a make up line when you are using automation. Its as simple as setting up a feature circuit for Spillway and assigning a pump speed. The ET will rotate the Pool/Spa return valve when the spillway mode is requested or scheduled and the water will be sent to the spa through the jets to cause the overflow.

If you run an independent return to the spa for the spillway, it will make programming the ET troublesome and clumsy to operate.

 

[Bhebert449]

You don't need a make up line when you are using automation. Its as simple as setting up a feature circuit for Spillway and assigning a pump speed. The ET will rotate the Pool/Spa return valve when the spillway mode is requested or scheduled and the water will be sent to the spa through the jets to cause the overflow.

If you run an independent return to the spa for the spillway, it will make programming the ET troublesome and clumsy to operate.

What if I want to have flow to the pool and spa at the same time? I understand the traditional spillway mode sends flow to the spa only. I would prefer to have everything circulating together and be able to control the flow of the spillway. How can I accomplish that?

 

[Meadow]

What if I want to have flow to the pool and spa at the same time? I understand the traditional spillway mode sends flow to the spa only. I would prefer to have everything circulating together and be able to control the flow of the spillway. How can I accomplish that?

I am not an expert and not a big fan of automation but just can't resist to chime in. Below pic is our pool basic equipment we inherited before the VS pump upgrade. I can manually switch to Spa or Pool mode or both by manually turning the Jandy valve at midway (Suction and Return valves). The position of the Jandy valve as shown in the pic indicates Pool Mode but if you will notice, the output flow from the heater has a 1.5" bypass with ball valve from which I can manually regulate the flow of water to the Spillway.

Follow the path and I'm sure you'll get the idea. Sorry, can't help with automation!

 

[bdavis466]

What if I want to have flow to the pool and spa at the same time? I understand the traditional spillway mode sends flow to the spa only. I would prefer to have everything circulating together and be able to control the flow of the spillway. How can I accomplish that?

You can manually activate the actuator and stop it's rotation so the pool return is open and the spa return is partially open.

It's not a good idea to a always have the spillway active when the pump is on. That will lead to pH rise and require a higher pump speed.

You can see the discussion here:

Automating my spillway - Seeking Advice