Bought a house this past summer with an above-ground 17x34 Doughboy. Has about 20k gallons (~580sf surface). Converted to salt (PL7700). However, the pump seems to be quite expensive to run 8 hours a day. Looking to get something a bit more economical. Although, it seems to work just fine at circulating the water and keeping the pool clean (sand filter appears to be original to pool install 11 years ago).
Currently have 115v supply.
1HP WhiteRiver pump
7.3 amps
Hmax: 9m
Qmax: 62 GPM
Would you suggest dual speed or variable speed? Brand? Size? Etc.
Also, what natural gas heater would you suggest (we are in southwest Michigan and would love to extend the season on either end).
Hello Dpool2 - We’d be glad to assist you. The most energy efficient option would be the variable speed model. Currently, there are not many options for 115v. Hayward makes a 115v variable speed Super Pump. It has a total HP of .85. The model number is SP26115VSP. This pump does not come with a power cord. It would need to be hard wired or a power cord could be installed.
A dual speed option would be the Hayward Matrix 1HP model SP15922S. This pump is 115v and it comes with a 6’ cord. It also has a switch for the speeds.
As far as the heater, we would recommend something around 250k btu’s. The Hayward H250FDN would be a good option. It comes standard with a cupro-nickel heat exchanger. This is a more durable heat exchanger that will hold up better to salt water.
We would recommend the PureLine Prime 1.65Hp model PL2605. It’s a little more HP than what you currently have but it would still be more energy efficient. You would still run the pump at a lower rpm and only use the higher speeds for vacuuming or backwashing.