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Pool pump motor is shot — VFD or replace in kind
Posted on 12/20/22 at 12:11 pm
Posted on 12/20/22 at 12:11 pm
Existing is a 2hp single speed century motor and Pentair Challenger strainer, pump. Impeller screw backed out and it appears water made it behind the seals. Motor squeals like crazy even when completely separated from the pump.
I can get a new motor for $400. Should I consider a new variable speed? Seems that at current power costs, it’d take 10 years to pay for increased efficiency. Potential for WiFi control, app programming seems attractive. I have no other automation and don’t anticipate adding it.
I can get a new motor for $400. Should I consider a new variable speed? Seems that at current power costs, it’d take 10 years to pay for increased efficiency. Potential for WiFi control, app programming seems attractive. I have no other automation and don’t anticipate adding it.
This post was edited on 12/20/22 at 12:16 pm
Posted on 12/20/22 at 12:32 pm to turkish
Check to see if you qualify for any rebates with a variable speed pump. I had one but can’t remember if it was from cleco or from a federal program.
Posted on 12/20/22 at 12:53 pm to turkish
quote:
Should I consider a new variable speed? Seems that at current power costs, it’d take 10 years to pay for increased efficiency.
I’d certainly recommend a variable speed pump. How did you come up with the 10 year estimate?
I see a very noticeable difference from when my pump is running 100% vs when it’s on some combo of 60/80. Depending on where the pump is located, it’s also much quieter.
Not sure if that’s factoring into the cost, but the WiFi/app control is a huge benefit and the only way I operate my system. With the upcoming weather, it also handles the freeze protection on its own.
Posted on 12/20/22 at 1:50 pm to LSUtigerME
Thanks for the feedback. I’m assuming a delta cost of about $1500 and a power savings around $120-150 a year, which is actually a little more than Pentair’s calculator predicts. I only run my pump about 4 hours per day and have been able to achieve fantastic chemical control and stability once I started doing my own testing. Less noise would be nice, for sure.
Which pump do you have?
Which pump do you have?
This post was edited on 12/20/22 at 1:57 pm
Posted on 12/20/22 at 1:56 pm to turkish
(Deleted)
This post was edited on 3/16/23 at 4:21 pm
Posted on 12/20/22 at 1:58 pm to Shite_kicker
Thanks. This motor was way overdue then. I’ve had it for 6 years.
Posted on 12/20/22 at 2:00 pm to turkish
Sounds like you got your moneys worth then lol
Posted on 12/20/22 at 2:02 pm to RC
I have that same set up. I have changed the motor twice in 16 years. It is a quick fix to change out the motor and the seal and the 3 or 4 gaskets. With a little more effort, you could instead just change out the bearings, the cause of the squeal, and keep using the motor. You would still need to replace the seal and gaskets. Do not forget to use silicone grease on the gaskets
I have no experience with the multi speed/VFD pumps
ETA: The motors run $2-$300 depending on the horsepower, and the gasket kits and seals can be delivered to your door for about $20
I have no experience with the multi speed/VFD pumps
ETA: The motors run $2-$300 depending on the horsepower, and the gasket kits and seals can be delivered to your door for about $20
This post was edited on 12/20/22 at 2:05 pm
Posted on 12/20/22 at 4:20 pm to luvdoc
I’ve done the gasket job once before. This motor replacement is $400 with tax.
This post was edited on 12/20/22 at 4:21 pm
Posted on 12/20/22 at 4:20 pm to turkish
quote:
Which pump do you have?
I have Hayward equipment and 2 variable speed pumps.
If you are truly only running the pump 4 hours a day and getting enough circulation for filtration and chemistry, then I’d suggest just going back with a single speed pump or rebuilding it like others have suggested.
My pumps run around 12 hours in the summer and less during winter. Unless it’s on freeze protect where they will run while below freezing temps.
Since our pumps are near our bedroom, I can hear them when at 100%. Dropping to 80% or lower and the noise fades significantly.
Posted on 12/20/22 at 6:19 pm to luvdoc
I like this idea! Off to YouTube.
Posted on 12/21/22 at 8:31 am to turkish
Check out the Century VGreen motors. Controller is built right into the motor. Just swap into existing pump. Can program yourself. Great motors.
Posted on 12/21/22 at 4:33 pm to PoorOtis
Thanks, will check into that. I like the idea of keeping the existing pump. It’s incredibly simple and easy to service. I suppose this VGreen just gives up the option for WiFi control compared to the big name “smart pumps.”
For now, I’ve got a buddy that has replaced the bearings dozens of times, so I’m gonna go that route.
For now, I’ve got a buddy that has replaced the bearings dozens of times, so I’m gonna go that route.
This post was edited on 12/21/22 at 4:36 pm
Posted on 12/22/22 at 9:50 am to turkish
That is correct. With the VGreen motor you have to program it manually but it will run any programs the big name ones will.
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