1. Avoid variable speed pumps -- the electronics are too sensitive to Florida lightning; get a 2 speed pump instead: cheaper, more reliable, easier to repair, and nearly as efficient.
2. Consider solar panels for heating, and a small DEDICATED pump for circulation. Builders oversize pool pumps to run the solar panels, and waste electricity year round. The 1/2HP Hayward should be large enough for any solar system. Heat pumps also perform well in Florida, but make sure you get a unit that is FULLY salt compatible.
3. Because they have a very limited dirt capacity, robotic cleaners work better out west, where there are few thunderstorms and leaves. The filter and pump basket is precisely where you want the debris to go - they are easier to clean than the robot. Consider a Polaris 380 with a dedicated line and pump.
4. Find someone who can do the timers / controls properly. Many electricians don't really know how.
5. Get an oversized sand filter -- with slow flow, sand filters will rival DE in water quality, and are MUCH easier to maintain.
6. SWCG's *are* chlorine systems -- you just put yourself in the chlorine manufacturing business! SWCG's do well for routine chlorine maintenance, but start-up, shut-down and algae control STILL needs to be done manually.
7. If you get an SWCG, get the largest unit you can. SWCG life is directly related to "ON" time. Few units last as many hours as claimed.
Bookmarks