Recommendation for Pool Filter Size and Pump

Pool Equipment
1

I need guidance and a filter size,

  • I currently have a 2 hp electric motor (Model THHCXCRY-1603)  on a Hayward base pump (Model SP3015X20AZ)
  • Filter is a Hayward C12002 filter that has a 45 gpm flow
  • My pool has approximately 23,000 +/- gallons.
  • Kidney shaped 17 x 35 average depth of 5 ft, Average pipe sizes 2 inch with a spa that overflows into a pool.

I was told that the 2 hp motor is needed due to the spa overflow into the pool and two benches in the pool to have jets as well.  (Note: our spa can be used by itself when needed with no overflow into the pool) We also have a gas heater and a salt generator. (Both needing replacement due to age and heavy wear and tear)   It appears that my pool struggles in keeping clarity, I’m having to clean the filter at least every two days as the flow for the pool slows dramatically. When I install a new filter cartridge I get approximately every 5 to 7 days before cleaning. It appears I may have the incorrect size filter itself,  Questions:

  1. Is the filter Hayward C12002 two small?
  2. What is your recommendation for fitler?
  3. Can the lack of flow going through the filter affect the Hayward pool salt generator?
  4. what your opinion on a variable speed versus a single speed.
2

Yes, the C12002 is undersized. At a minimum, I’d recommend a 200 square foot cartridge. Check out Waterway ProClean Plus model PCCF-200. That is a 200 square foot single cartridge system. If you want to go even longer between cleaning cycles, you may want to consider a 4 cartridge system. The Waterway Crystal Water 425 is a good option.

The amount of time between cleaning really depends on how much debris is getting into the pool. I have a 200 square foot cartridge on my pool and I clean it once a month. I could probably go 2-4 months with a 4 cartridge system.

The lack of flow would impact the salt chlorine generator if it dropped below the minimum flow rate. For example, if the minimum flow rate for your salt system is 25 gpm and the water flow drops below that, the salt system will stop producing chlorine.

I prefer variable speed pumps for two main reasons. The first is that they are much more energy-efficient than a single-speed motor. Second, they are very quiet. My variable speed pump sits right outside my bedroom window and I can’t hear it running.