Ordering First Pool

Hello,
I am a first-time pool owner getting ready to order an above ground pool. I have decided on a Saltwater 8000 from ThePoolFactory.com. My space is limited so I am going with a 12x24 oval. I think the Hayward S230T932S 23-Inch Pro Series Sand Filter System with 1-1/2 HP 2 Speed Power-Flo Matrix Pump will work for my needs. I am also debating the idea of going salt with the Hayward Goldline AQ-TROL-RJ AquaTrol Above-Ground Pool Return Jet Chlorinator.

Does anyone have any advise or words of wisdom before I order the filter/pump and decide on salt?

Bigger filter with smaller pump will give better water quality. 2 speed is good. People here who have SWCG's seem to love 'em.

Are you DIY install or contract installer?

I am looking to have someone install. I got a name and number from a local pool company that subs out their installs.

My hopes are I can run the 2-speed pump on low most of the time. Would this work?

Thanks for the awesome site. I look forward to searching for answers and learning a new hobby.

I am not the resident pump expert by any means but I do think a 1-1/2hp pump is way too big for your pool. In the case of pool pumps, bigger is not better. If your pump is too powerful, instead of allowing for good filtration, it simply forces debris through the sand bed back into the pool. Someone else will be able to give you a better suggestion of a good pump/filter match up for your pool.

Welcome to the Pool Forum!

Bump for input on my idea to run the oversized 2-speed pump on low most of the time.

Sure! You may want to only use the low speed. There's alot of senanigans around HP ratings of above ground pumps - All manufacturers. It's telling that the impleller for that pump is listed as 1HP. It may not be soo badly oversized.

Thanks BigDave,

Am I missing something regarding saltwater and pump/filter specs? None of the filters or pumps I looked at said anything about being safe for saltwater. If it is not a concern for the pump and filter I think I will go ahead with the Haward SWG I am looking at.

I read in the filter manual it was safe for salt. I went ahead and ordered the Hayward salt system that mounts to the return jet. Pool should be here this week and installed next. I hope to learn much more here on this site.

. . . membership upgraded.

If you are filling a small pool, you can get started with the Super Simple recipe, if you'd like: http://pool9.net/ssr/. Note that the SSR can ONLY be used on freshly filled pools, and ONLY for limited time period.