IntelliFlow 4x160 over Whisperflo?

[26theone]

Designing a new IG residential pool. I am digging through posts on this topic but I wanted to post my own pool specs (still in the design phase).

Is it worth paying an extra $750 to upgrade from a Whisperflo pump to the IntelliFlow 4x160?

My main factors are energy savings if I can take advantage of some of the lower settings on the Intelliflow but still keep the pool clean. I will have a separate blower for the spa. I will also have a legend pool cleaner with its own 3/4hp pump.

85' perimiter IG pool
420 sq foot of pool surface
Approx 13225 gallons
16' perimeter attached spa
51 sq foot of spa surface
2 skimmers with separate runs to pump
4 surface returns
Pentair 420SF Cartridge Filter

Thanks for you input.

[Big_D]

Sorry but is not as easy as that, could be a savings and then again may not show a ROI for 3 years. What control system are you using?
The 4x160 offers some efficiency increase over the Whisper flow, but the Full Intelliflo may be a better option if you have the right Intellitouch control system.

4x160 and Intelliflo discussion is a hot topic now for Chem geek, go read his thread on Pump Efficiency (http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php?t=6403&page=2).

What are your energy cost or Rates per Kw Hr? (usually posted on the power company website)
Solar?
Plans for expansion?
Go here (http://www.pentairpool.com/pool_pump_calc/index.htm) and do some fast research on daily operation cost

[26theone]

Energy costs are 13 cents per KW. No solar. No plans for expansion.

I havent picked any automated control system at this point. The builders std pool pkg doesnt include digital automation just a analog timer for both pool pump and cleaner pump. The more expensive pump may be overkill for my small pool. Thanks