Quote Originally Posted by Dead Beaver Ranch View Post
I calculate I have less than a 20' head if I average the line coming from the skimmer and the line coming from the bottom drain. If so, the specs for the pump shows 85 GPM for a 20' head.
Exactly how did you calculate that? Hint, calculating head loss is not trivial and it isn't just the length of pipe. I doubt it would be that low. I can estimate it for you but I will need the following information

What is your current filter pressure?

How high is the filter gauge relative to the pool water level?

Number and length of suction lines from the pool to the pump?


I doubt the pump is over sized, it is one of the smallest pumps on the market. If you have sand blowing into the pool, it could be broken lateral. That is the most common issue with sand filters.

As for a VS, it usually isn't worth the extra cost unless you have very high electrical rates.