Minimize Energy Costs Strategy Needed

[CarlD]

I winterize my pool and let it freeze. I don't run the pump from October to May--because it's stored in the basement.

[Phillbo]

I guess you can't minimize your energy usage any more than that now, can ya

[CarlD]

I guess you can't minimize your energy usage any more than that now, can ya

Not unless you can figure out how to get it to generate electricity for ya!

[larryincanada]

Thanks for the suggestions!

I too, only run in the summer and let the pool freeze in the winter.
Getting a 2-speed pump sounds like a option. I just don't like changing out my almost still new 1hp pump.

I think I may look at getting a smaller pump, say 1/2 to 3/4hp and install it in parallel with a couple of check valves. This should be cheaper than a new fancy 2 speed. I can then power up each of the pumps I want through a timer and have the benefit of a back-up pump. I'll just have to install the proper switches and wiring so as to not have both pumps come on at the same time on the same fused circuit.

It would be great to have the system operate automatically based on the real demand. Are there any devices out there that can automate the need for turning on the salt water generator and pump? I'm imagining that there can be a remote, hopefully wireless, sensor you can drop into the pool that reads the chlorine level and maybe other parameters such as temperature. A reciever/controller can then trigger the pump and clorine generator to come on only as needed.

[CarlD]

It won't solve your fundamental problem. Your pump is too big for your filter. You either need a bigger filter or a smaller pump.

Sell it on eBay!

[gkosin1]

I installed a pentair computerize pump earlier this year and it works great. I have about 1 year pay back and then the savings go in my pocket. Go to their web site and use the energy savings calculator and see if it can help you in your case.
Greg

[larryincanada]

I installed a pentair computerize pump earlier this year and it works great. I have about 1 year pay back and then the savings go in my pocket. Go to their web site and use the energy savings calculator and see if it can help you in your case.
Greg

VERY NICE and SLICK!
The IntelliFlo looks ideal.
Time to save up for this new toy.

Thanks!

[larryincanada]

It won't solve your fundamental problem. Your pump is too big for your filter. You either need a bigger filter or a smaller pump.

Sell it on eBay!

I oversized my filter to reduce backwashing frequency.
It's huge Pentair TA100D at 30" diameter and rated at 100gpm.

I assume that a smaller 1/3 to 1/2 hp would be OK with this filter. I'm sure I'll still need to use my original 1hp to provide enough pressure and flow for a proper backwash cycle.

The chlorine generator should be able to self adjust itself with the changing flowrate. I may have to run it a little longer with the smaller pump.