Re: New pool build -- pipes and pump sizes
I suggest on insisting upon (at least) 2" pipe everywhere, unless smaller is required local to a particular item (for example, to connect to a 1.5" return).
One other thing to consider. Most builders want to use the main circulating pump to feed the spa jets. This has the effect of oversizing your circ pump. Since you will run the circ pump far more than the spa, this will increase your operation cost.
I added a separate pump dedicated to the spa jets. This will cost more, of course, so you'll have to see if your budget allows it.
I have a two speed, 1 HP main circ pump and a single speed, 1 HP spa jet pump (plus a waterfall pump).
The benefits of this arrangement include:
- Not having to use 2 HP worth of pump while the spa is heating up (you don't run the jet pump until the spa is warm enough for you to get in).
- Being able to operate the spa as a "hot tub" (no jet action other than the very little bit of agitation provided by the circ pump pumping through the non-jet returns). To me, this is really a nice benefit.
Let me know if you'd like me to send you my plumbing diagrams.
Pool owner - contract signed 21Aug2006; HOA approval granted; complete - existing patio demolition; excavation; rebar; embedded plumbing; gunite; plumbing; electrical; tile and coping; decking; plaster; pool fill; acid start-up; regular start-up; pool school; gas meter upgrade; additional of salt; PDA remote programming.
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