Hi Pools,

Just wanted to add my welcome. I can't answer the pump question, but I know that a 2 HP pump is too much pump for a 15-20K pool. You should be able to get a smaller one, which will be less expensive, but the equipment gurus should be by soon to offer some opinions.

As far as labor costs, that's going to vary by area, I would think--out here in Louisiana, going labor rates are around $90/hour plus service call fees depending on mileage, but I'm wiling to bet that's a lot different from the California prices. Best thing I can recommend would be to shop around--call several of your area pool service places and just see what the average is.

Janet