Why You Need a Variable Speed Pump Motor
Keeping your pool clean is one of the essential tasks of pool ownership. But, when the pump goes south, a little-known law comes into play. If you have a pool motor that bites the dust, and you’re the type of person who enjoys working on your own home projects, you might like the challenge of replacing your pool pump motor. Here is a site which offers instructions on how to do it in 55 steps. If the pool motor project doesn't appeal to you, read on.
A little background on pool pump motors
When the water level in the pool gets below the skimmer opening, the motor can heat up quickly./ Photo by Manning Pool Services, Houston, TX
The backbone of your pool pump is the pool motor. In many cases, this used to be a single speed motor which ran at a brisk pace. Within the span of eight hours or less, the pool pump should be able to pump the entire contents of your pool through the system. That’s why bigger pools or pools with extras (fountains, jets, etc.)
Why should I want a variable speed motor?
A variable speed motor has the option of running on a lower setting. This is the vehicle equivalent of being able to drive 20 miles per hour sometimes instead of 40 mph for every trip. The reason this is an attractive option is that, other than your HVAC, your pool motor is the highest energy-using system in your home. When there is a heavy load on the power grid, customers who have the option of running their pool pump at a lower speed is an attractive option to power companies. It fits in with their tiered energy programs. Our state representatives voted (Arizona Revised Statute 44-1375) that when an old pool motor is replaced, it should be with a dual or variable speed motor. There may have been some lobbying by energy companies to make 44-1375 a law.
How much more will a variable speed motor cost?
But, a variable speed motor is hundreds of dollars more expensive than a single speed motor. As a result, some pool companies will replace your old broken motor with a single speed motor instead of a dual speed motor. The homeowner thinks he’s saving money, but the truth is, that dual speed motor will pay for itself in lower energy costs, usually in less than two years. APS claims a savings of $340 per year in energy costs for the average pool owner.
Professional calibration
Having your pool pro professionally calibrate your pump and install a timer will also save on energy costs. Individual circumstances will dictate how long the pump needs to run, including the size of the pool, the weather, usage, etc. As a rule, though, during the summer, your pool motor needs to run 8-12 hours; during the summer, between 6-8 hours is enough.
If you need pool maintenance for your Phoenix, Arizona pool or spa, call us here at Serenity Pools. Our services include new installation set-up, professional maintenance of pools and spas, water features, and fountains. Call today! 480-370-0579.
