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Thread: Replacement pump suggestions?

  1. #1
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    Default Replacement pump suggestions?

    I currently have a 1hp PACFAB Challenger pump for my IG 33000Gal pool. It's ~15 years old, loud as can be, needs a new motor, and the wet side isnt in terrible shape...

    This is the equalivent of what I have today...
    http://www.doheny.com/poolsupplies/I...umps-2321.html

    It seems most of the pumps on the market don't use the style of design the challenger uses. Any suggestions on what I replace the pump with? I don't want to break the bank, but would like something quiet and somewhat energy efficient.

    Or should I just have a new motor and seals put in?

    Thanks
    Last edited by nbm400; 07-11-2013 at 10:03 AM.

  2. #2
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    mas985 is offline Lifetime Member Whizbang Spinner mas985 3 stars mas985 3 stars mas985 3 stars
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    Default Re: Replacement pump suggestions?

    Pump "efficiency" is related more to the size of the pump and the speed than anything else. So go small and go with a two speed.

    But as long as the wet end is in good condition, I probably would just replace the motor and you could replace it with a two speed to improve the efficiency.

    However, you can find new pumps that are only about $100 more than a motor replacement but then you are dealing with plumbing changes.

    If you decide on a pump change and as long as you don't have any high flow rate requirements, spa, waterfalls, etc., then a Superflo 2 speed like this one might be a good choice:

    http://www.amazon.com/Pentair-340042...words=Superflo
    Mark
    Hydraulics 101; Pump Ed 101; Pump/Pool Spreadsheets; Pump Run Time Study; DIY Acid Dosing; DIY Cover Roller
    18'x36' 20k plaster, MaxFlo SP2303VSP, Aqualogic PS8 SWCG, 420 sq-ft Cartridge, Solar, 6 jet spa, 1 HP jet pump, 400k BTU NG Heater

  3. #3
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    Default Re: Replacement pump suggestions?

    I have that same pump, just bought used on CL. To my untrained eye, it apprears more efficient as its impeller housing is much larger in diameter. Even though it is 1 hp it seems to move much more water than my old hayward. It moves a comparable amount on low speed.

    If you are handy at all, just replace the bearings and seal and you will be as good as new. There are videos on line to show how to do it. Or, you could take the already given advice and go to a 2 speed.

  4. #4
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    Default Re: Replacement pump suggestions?

    I just replaced my Hayward Super Pump with the same, only in a two speed. The new pump is very quiet, especially on low. But I find that it doesn't skim very well on low and sometimes my heater will switch off because of lack of pressure while on low. My pressure on high is 16 and low is only 4-6.

    Is this common with two speed pumps?

  5. #5
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    Default Re: Replacement pump suggestions?

    Common with both two speeds and variable speeds on lower speeds. Lower speed means lower flow rate so there is not as much water movement which is why it is more energy efficient. So there are trade offs and you may need some high speed run time for skimming and/or cleaners.
    Mark
    Hydraulics 101; Pump Ed 101; Pump/Pool Spreadsheets; Pump Run Time Study; DIY Acid Dosing; DIY Cover Roller
    18'x36' 20k plaster, MaxFlo SP2303VSP, Aqualogic PS8 SWCG, 420 sq-ft Cartridge, Solar, 6 jet spa, 1 HP jet pump, 400k BTU NG Heater

  6. #6
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    Default Re: Replacement pump suggestions?

    I like the idea of a 2 speed pump... Does this require any special wiring changes to be made or is it simply just a switch on the pump? I have 110v running to the pump, not 220.

  7. #7
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    mas985 is offline Lifetime Member Whizbang Spinner mas985 3 stars mas985 3 stars mas985 3 stars
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    Default Re: Replacement pump suggestions?

    There are several options. Some pumps/motors come with a switch but a two speed timer would allow you to set the individual run time for both high and low speed. Of course that adds to the cost of the setup.

    Are you leaning towards a motor replacement or a full pump replacement?
    Mark
    Hydraulics 101; Pump Ed 101; Pump/Pool Spreadsheets; Pump Run Time Study; DIY Acid Dosing; DIY Cover Roller
    18'x36' 20k plaster, MaxFlo SP2303VSP, Aqualogic PS8 SWCG, 420 sq-ft Cartridge, Solar, 6 jet spa, 1 HP jet pump, 400k BTU NG Heater

  8. #8
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    Default Re: Replacement pump suggestions?

    Leaning towards just replacing the motor, I found a local place that will replace the motor and seal for ~$300 parts and labor.

    However, I just stumbled across this motor... Looks promising, trying to verify it will fit properly. http://www.poolplaza.com/P-AOS-B2982T-5005.html

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