slythic
05-30-2014, 12:33 PM
Hi all,
Watermom and PoolDoc helped me greatly in a previous thread (http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php/23953-Need-pool-renovation-advice-for-a-1950-s-pool) with my pool renovation decision.
Quick background: Have a 1950's concrete block pool which has been empty for 3 years. The existing 1.5HP single speed pump and sand filter are from 1998. The pump works (use it to drain the pool during rainy season) and the sand filter is in bad shape. I would like to replace the equipment for something new. More pool info can be found in the link above including photos.
My goal is to have a very low maintenance system. My second goal is a low electrical bill. I'm willing to spend a bit more upfront if necessary for this convenience.
The pool is currently plumbed with 1 1/2" galvanized pipe. This includes the two returns, the skimmer and the main drain. Later this year or early next year I plan to re-pipe the entire pool using 2" PVC pipe. Is 2" PVC overkill for this pool size?
The pool is 14,000-15,000 gallons (15 x 25, avg depth of 5') comes out to about 31GPM @ Hours per day) and I've calculated about 30-40' average head (1 main drain and 1 skimmer). I wanted to invest in getting a new 2-speed or variable speed pump (lower energy consumption), filter and possibly a salt generator (less time spent going to store to buy chlorine containers).
From what I've researched, a 3/4 HP pump should be sufficient for my pool. Is this correct? Later on when I repipe the pool, I may add a third return. I have been told that adding an extra return is recommended. I would also like to add 2-4 deck jets but I'm still not convinced about the deck jets.
I know a lot of people don't like cartridge filters but I'm looking into it as I hear it's low maintenance if you oversize (thinking of 150sqft or more even though I may only need about 95sqft). Another reason I would like the cartridge system is the small footprint (I can fit a sand filter but would prefer the smaller size). I also hear if you add some DE to the skimmer it "coats" cartridge and helps filter even better - any truth to this?
I would also like to incorporate a salt system mainly for the low maintenance upkeep but also because I've noticed salt pools "feel" better. I could be imagining this but it seems that way. Also, some of my family and friends suffer from allergies and I hear the salt system is better for them (not sure why or how though).
Some questions and concerns (some of which are hidden above):
1. Is 2" PVC plumbing throughout overkill for my pool size?
2. Is a 3/4 HP 2-speed or variable good for my pool size? Should I get a more powerful pump (especially if I get the deck jets later) so it runs more efficiently? Any pump recommendations?
3. Are cartridge filters the lowest maintenance option?
4. Is adding DE to a cartridge filter system a good idea?
5. Any experience with a salt chlorine generator? Is it actually lower maintenance?
Watermom and PoolDoc helped me greatly in a previous thread (http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php/23953-Need-pool-renovation-advice-for-a-1950-s-pool) with my pool renovation decision.
Quick background: Have a 1950's concrete block pool which has been empty for 3 years. The existing 1.5HP single speed pump and sand filter are from 1998. The pump works (use it to drain the pool during rainy season) and the sand filter is in bad shape. I would like to replace the equipment for something new. More pool info can be found in the link above including photos.
My goal is to have a very low maintenance system. My second goal is a low electrical bill. I'm willing to spend a bit more upfront if necessary for this convenience.
The pool is currently plumbed with 1 1/2" galvanized pipe. This includes the two returns, the skimmer and the main drain. Later this year or early next year I plan to re-pipe the entire pool using 2" PVC pipe. Is 2" PVC overkill for this pool size?
The pool is 14,000-15,000 gallons (15 x 25, avg depth of 5') comes out to about 31GPM @ Hours per day) and I've calculated about 30-40' average head (1 main drain and 1 skimmer). I wanted to invest in getting a new 2-speed or variable speed pump (lower energy consumption), filter and possibly a salt generator (less time spent going to store to buy chlorine containers).
From what I've researched, a 3/4 HP pump should be sufficient for my pool. Is this correct? Later on when I repipe the pool, I may add a third return. I have been told that adding an extra return is recommended. I would also like to add 2-4 deck jets but I'm still not convinced about the deck jets.
I know a lot of people don't like cartridge filters but I'm looking into it as I hear it's low maintenance if you oversize (thinking of 150sqft or more even though I may only need about 95sqft). Another reason I would like the cartridge system is the small footprint (I can fit a sand filter but would prefer the smaller size). I also hear if you add some DE to the skimmer it "coats" cartridge and helps filter even better - any truth to this?
I would also like to incorporate a salt system mainly for the low maintenance upkeep but also because I've noticed salt pools "feel" better. I could be imagining this but it seems that way. Also, some of my family and friends suffer from allergies and I hear the salt system is better for them (not sure why or how though).
Some questions and concerns (some of which are hidden above):
1. Is 2" PVC plumbing throughout overkill for my pool size?
2. Is a 3/4 HP 2-speed or variable good for my pool size? Should I get a more powerful pump (especially if I get the deck jets later) so it runs more efficiently? Any pump recommendations?
3. Are cartridge filters the lowest maintenance option?
4. Is adding DE to a cartridge filter system a good idea?
5. Any experience with a salt chlorine generator? Is it actually lower maintenance?