Upgrade to Variable Speed Pump worth it?

[Zamsaf]

PB is giving me a 2 speed pump. I asked for a VS pump and he told me it is a 700 dollar difference? Is it worth it?

Also our pool starts at 3 feet and I want to change it to 4 feet. We already did permitting but honestly I asked for 4 feet to being with but the PB pressured me to go with 3 because he didn’t want to add an extra step in the pool.

 

[mguzzy]

Demand what you want... you won't see the PB after the build is done, but you WILL see the pool for the rest of your time with it. And it will bug you forever. If you want 4 ft, make that it non negotiable. The PB is being lazy... BTW as things get built out there are certain modifications that can be done at each stage, so if you realize something is not going the way you expected it, make the PB aware immediately before the build progresses to a point where they can't change it.

I would go with the VS. Here in CA they are requiring VS pumps on all new builds. In the long run they lower operating cost will pay for the $700 upgrade.

 

[ajw22]

Can you tell us the complete specs of your pool and equipment? A 2 speed pump on a simple pool may be fine. If you have spas and water features and other stuff then a VS pump may be better.

Note that after July 20121 Federal regulations will require all pumps over 1 HP be VS. So if you don’t get one now your next pump will be VS. I think SS and 2 speed pumps are being cleared out of the supply chain At a low price.

 

[Zamsaf]

My pool is 14x30. I have 3 deck jets and 1 bubbler. He assured me I won’t be saving much with a VS pump but I don’t fully trust him.

 

[ajw22]

Deck jets and a bubbler all on one pump? Get a VS pump.

You getting automation? How will your pump be controlled?

 

[Zamsaf]

From a panel inside the home

 

[ajw22]

From a panel inside the home

For any specific advice you need to give us manufacturers and model numbers.

 

[PoolGate]

My utility gives a $400 credit for installing a VSP. So check with your utility they for sure offer something.

Here are some cost averages for running at various speeds.

 

[jimmythegreek]

Depending on the 2 speed pump you may not be able to run the deck jets and bubbler at the same time. A VS makes it easier to control flow and speeds. If the panel inside is for automation its prob worth the upgrade. Ask for details and specs and post them for us

 

[Zamsaf]

Here is what they’re giving me


From Hayward:

• Cleaner - Navigator HCS925CB
• Pump - 1/65hp variable speed, SP22520VSP
• Filter - 225ft - C225SBHMB
• Electronics & Salt - PL Plus (no model #)

From Paramount:

• Paraglo LED Blue Lens Light, 004-902-1100-05

 

[Zamsaf]

I can’t seem to find most of this stuff online

 

[PoolGate]

Looks like Hayword stuff. That pump is probably the SP23520VSP. I think the "2" is a typo unless it's an old model. Filter doesn't seem to be a current model either but I found a reference to the cartridge for it.

MaxFlo VS | Pumps | In Ground Pool Pumps - Hayward Pool Products

MaxFlo VS brings variable-speed technology to the popular MaxFlo pump family. They are an easy drop-in variable-speed pool pump upgrade that deliver up to 80% energy cost savings over single-speed models.

www.hayward-pool.com

POOL360 - C225SBHMB CARTRIDGE ELEMENT

C225SBHMB CARTRIDGE ELEMENT

pool360.poolcorp.com

 

[Zamsaf]

Is it worth a 700 upgrade from the maxflo dual speed pump?

 

[PoolGate]

Is it worth a 700 upgrade from the maxflo dual speed pump?

I would not have anything but a VSP especially with a SWG that is best to run 24x7. Typically you'd find the slowest speed it can safety be run and go with that. Then bump your speed as needed when you run water features. My pump runs 24x7 all summer with no breaks at very low speed. My chart above shows what cost savings are at various speeds. Not to mention your utility rebate mentioned above. Call your utility asap and see they may have specific models that qualify for the rebate.

 

[Zamsaf]

I called the utility they don’t offer any rebates. However Hayward’s website mentions a $75 rebate. Would I qualify for that?

 

[Zamsaf]

I’m finding the VS pump online for about 650. He is charging me that amount without taking out the price from the dual speed pump he was giving me. Should I try to buy it myself and have him install it?

 

[FlapjackMcCoy]

I would (might) agree to the price, but from experience I would clarify that this should not effect the electric allowance. That is where I got burnt with my upgrades, they gave me an upgrade price but did not mention that the electric would also go up, so it was an unwelcome surprise. Also my 2 cents the VS pump is pretty neat, I say go for it.

 

[Zamsaf]

Can you clarify what you mean by the electric allowance?

 

[FlapjackMcCoy]

Some stuff was included in the contract price, others were estimated and included as an allowance. Rock, electric, crane, retaining wall, concrete sqft, drainage are all estimates and can go over or under.

 

[Zamsaf]

Thanks. I’ve emailed the PB and asked him to give me the VS pump for 500. It costs 750 online and he is just upgrading me from a dual speed pump, the difference between the two shouldn’t be 700.