How Pool Pumps Work
Before we get into the different types of pool pumps, how they work and the pros and cons of each of them, we want to share with you this one, mind-boggling fact…
Did you know that pool pumps can cost more to run than all of your household appliances AND utilities combined? IT’S TRUE!
The Pros Know
There’s a principle in the pool industry called the Pump Affinity Law. We could get into the nitty-gritty of what that means, but really, that’s for the Pool Professionals to figure out. It helps them determine the right pool pump for your particular pool application and lifestyle. The Pros will take many factors into consideration when sizing your pool pump: such as pool filter size, plumbing size, spa jet and water feature requirements, along with the water turnover rate needed to keep your water properly filtered. Incorrectly sizing a pool pump could render it ineffective and inefficient, and could possibly cause damage to your filtering system. What you really need to know is what’s available, and what they’ll do for your pool, spa, water features and wallet.
Single-speed Pool Pumps
Single-speed pool pumps do pretty much one thing, they pump your pool’s water through your system at (you got it) only 1 speed. Single-speed pool pumps are typically very inexpensive to purchase and install, but very expensive to operate. They work best on basic pool applications without water features and do an excellent job turning the water over, providing flow for equipment to function properly.
Two-speed Pool Pumps
Two-speed pool pumps are more energy-efficient than a single-speed pump, and work best on pools with water features. They run at two fixed speeds, high and low, and require a separate device such as an automation system to adjust between the two speeds. Your energy usage will drop when you slow the pool pump down to the lower speed. Switching your single-speed, to a two-speed pool pump, can save you as much as 80% on your pool’s energy bill.
Intelligent, Variable-speed Pool Pumps
Stepping your single-speed pool pump to an intelligent, ENERGY STAR-rated, variable-speed pool pump (VSP) can offer you dramatic energy savings – up to 90% every season. That’s as much as $1,500.00 back in your pocket each season! They can handle more complex pool applications, and because they’re intelligent, they adjust their speed automatically for the task they’re performing. You don’t have to do a thing. You may also be eligible for a rebate from your utility company. Added benefits to saving money are, these pumps are quieter and do a better job filtering your pool’s water.
Adjusting ambiance for sound and water flow
Water features can add a tremendous amount of ambiance to your backyard experience. But, if you’re shooting for a serene experience, you may not want the water in your waterfalls and features coming out a full blast. A variable-speed pool pump will allow you to reduce the flow, reducing the sound your features make. For spa lovers, jets can be tuned to the exact massage flow desired, adjusting for all the individuals in your household.
Additional VSP benefits beyond energy savings
- VSPs are incredibly quiet
- VSPs extend the life of the plumbing and equipment (less stress at lower flows)
- VSPs offer improved filtration (longer run times, at lower speeds)
- VSPs better distribute chemicals and reduces amount of chemicals needed
Check back here often for more detailed articles on how your pool equipment works.
