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I am just getting started in the planning process for a new pool and one of the options offered is a variable speed Pool Pump with the claim that it will save energy costs. Is a Variable speed pump worth the additional investment? Any experience with one (Pros & Cons)?
For new pools, I will usually recommend a VS pump because the incremental cost is small in comparison to the cost of the pool so it is usually worth it, especially if you are planning any water features, spa or solar. A two speed pump can be more cost effective than a VS pump because of the lower up front cost but the extra flexibility of the VS usually makes the extra cost worth it.
Just keep in mind, VS pumps are electronic in nature, and the electronic components of VS pumps are VERY expensive: lose them, and you might as well replace the whole pump. If you are in an area where thunderstorms (and the electrical surges from lightning) are rare, this may not be a big issue.
But 2-speed pumps plus electromechanical timers are a much more reliable option in lightning prone areas, like south Florida. I'm not sure whether south Texas is more like California or Florida.
I would say that South Texas is very similar to Florida. I had a very close lightning strick in July and ended up having to replace my Security Camera DVR, 4 outdoor IR cameras, Circuit card and coils on Kohler generator auto transfer switch, Gateway on The Energy Detective system (TED), D-Link Router, Wireless internet system, 2 each 10/100/1000 ethernet switches, burglar alarm for the house. I replaced everything with like kind but converted the generator auto transfer switch to a manual transfer switch since that was the 2nd time I have had to replace the ATS. I probably have many times more surge protection equipment compared to most residences (8 panel mounted surge supressor and lightning arrestors) Most of what got fried was hard wired to the wireless router and/or ethernet switches.
Hm-mm-mh.
Go with a 2 speed and a non-electronic time clock. Do NOT spend money on an electronic control system!
Also be VERY sure that all the bonding and grounding is done meticulously. You'll want to have all those ducks in a row BEFORE they start putting steel and rebar in the ground. It's easy, and not too expensive, to do all that right IF you get everything ready BEFORE any concrete is poured or any gunite shot. I can tell you what to look for, after you have a pool design.