How would you rate this proposal

[eljefe281]

2 Speed pump? Which Jandy 2-speed would be sufficient for my pool? Same with a spa jet pump, any particular Jandy model?

Jandy seems to offer 2-speed pumps in only their larger sizes ("up-rated" 2 and 2.5 hp). Given the size of your pool, with a 2-speed pump on low speed, you will likely have to run your main circulating pump close to 24 hours a day to achieve the desired water turnover (assuming that's even enough). That may still save you electricity, but I can't tell...there are no pump curves for the 2-speed pumps on the Jandy website.

Ask your builder about a 2-speed pump. Or call and ask Jandy (have the volume of your pool in gallons ready).

A "full-rated" 1 or 1.5 hp single-speed pump would be OK for spa jet pump service (it's a toss-up). Ask your builder about it. I also suggest calling Jandy and asking them to make a selection. Have the quantity, manufacturer, and model number of spa jets ready.

How many (skimmers and main drains) should I request? Any benfits to having a certain number or configuration?

At least two skimmers. With a large pool like this, maybe three. I don't know enough to say for sure. Perhaps someone else will chime in.

Two main drains for each pump suction you will have. If you have one shared pump for main circulation and spa jets, you will need four main drains - two in the pool and two in the spa. If you have one pump for main circulation and a separate pump for spa jets, you will need six main drains - two in the pool and four in the spa. You don't say anything about a waterfall, but if you have a separate waterfall pump, you will need two more in the pool.

Some people prefer having no pool main drains at all, choosing instead to draw water through the skimmers. Some governmental agencies, however, may mandate the use of main drains. This topic has been discussed at length on the board.

We had the option of going from 0" up to 18". We chose 18" as a matter of preference.

That's fine. Just be aware that you will need a step (or steps) from the spa up onto the coping and a step (or steps) from the coping down onto the spa bench.

[eljefe281]

Other things:

(1) Don't let them plumb the main drains directly to the skimmers. Plumb each set of main drains together and run a dedicated line back to the equipment. Each skimmer should have a dedicated line run back to the equipment.

(2) Make sure there are enough returns/inlets to the pool. You may need six or more. Perhaps others can chime in here.

(3) Make sure they will provide you with evidence that all contractors performing work on your property are covered by insurance.

(4) Make sure they will provide you with lien releases (lien waivers) from all contractors and material suppliers, in effect indicating that they have been paid.