I've got an 18' x 36' above ground pool vinyl pool, a little over 14,000 gallons. I'm looking to replace my pumping system; I suspect that I could get by with less HP and save energy costs. I'd had the pool for 5 years, so it's just a matter of time before either the Pump or Motor will go out anyway. I'm ready to spend the money to realize energy cost savings.

The original Dealer/Installer put in a Pentair Clean and Clear Cartridge System - 150 square foot filtration area, 150 gpm, maximum working presure of 50 psi, and pressure drop at design flow of 8 psi.

They also installed a Purex-Triton Maxim Pump - model number is 39908690, and the nameplace says HP 2.0 SPL, along with an A. O. Smith Motor - BN35, 1.5 HP, rated 230/115 volts and 8/16 amps (115 volt source), and Pump Duty of 1081/1563.

I'm not sure if all of the above information is needed, but better more than less.

I never see Pump/Motor combinations of less than 1.5 HP advertised for above ground pools - my understanding is that these Pumps are self-priming as opposed to in ground pool Pumps. I'd like a better understanding on the importance of that.

Can somone give some advise on what I could go to - hopefully in the 3/4 HP range, how I would figure out how long it would need to run in order to turn the pool water over daily, and maybe suggest some specific brands and models. I'd also like to consider 2 speed models, again with energy savings in mind.

Thanks for any advice ...