Need a "BBB For Dummies" Tutorial

[simsjim]

This is all VERY helpful info. I learn much here.

I'll chime in on one question - running the pump 24/7.

There is no immediate ill-affect to running 24/7- aside from the excessive use of electricity. Which, personally, I don’t like doing....but just MHO. Also, one could debate that continual running of the motor could shorten the life expectancy of the pump.

You really only need to run the pump long enough to turn all of the water in you pool over once daily. That said, you can use the GPM from your pump’s flow curve to calculate how many gallons your pump moves each hour. Then - given your specific installation - determine how long it takes to turn over the entire pool . Or just take the easy way out, and run it for somewhere between 6-12 hrs/day. I suspect the average is 8 hours/day.

As far as remembering to turn the pump on/off. There is hope. Intermatic makes a series of outdoor timers that are perfect for this chore. Select the one that best suits your needs (there are single circuit models for just pumps, and if you have a heater there are two circuit models that coordinate the controls for each. Prices range from 40-90 bux at Home Depot. Or you can get them from a pool store for $150 . There is also a simple outlet/ plug-in model, but I personally didn’t think it looked robust enough.

More info at about Intermatic timers at http://www.intermatic.com/Default.as...4&cid=66&did=4

Good luck with the BBB method. I've dabbled in it at spring time to start-up with remarkable success, but always revert back to overpriced pool-specific chemicals as the season goes on. Just me getting confident enough in my own administering of the chemicals. One of these years, I'll take the full plunge and go ALL BBB. The copious testimonies about how successful, easy and inexpensive it is are convincing me its the way to go !

Peace,
James