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Why are pool pump timers so bad? (and dangerous)
Posted on 3/5/23 at 1:49 am
Posted on 3/5/23 at 1:49 am
I've noticed that almost every pool has a pool pump timer/switch that basically has exposed wires. These are usually pulling ~8 amps @ 120v. Some are even higher. Basically they have a flimsy little cover that easily pops on and off kinda loosely covering the hot wire terminals that are directly next to the switch that you flick on and off.
Not liking this design, I started doing some research on replacement options and am "shocked" at how bad the options are. The smart timers out there are janky AF. The GE one is the most legit but is riddled with issues. Some of them don't even have manual buttons on them. From what I can tell, all of them either require the use of poorly done apps and/or have unreliable integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.
What is going on here? Do we need to build a better pool pump and put it out to market? It feels much like how thermostats were before Nest.
Not liking this design, I started doing some research on replacement options and am "shocked" at how bad the options are. The smart timers out there are janky AF. The GE one is the most legit but is riddled with issues. Some of them don't even have manual buttons on them. From what I can tell, all of them either require the use of poorly done apps and/or have unreliable integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.
What is going on here? Do we need to build a better pool pump and put it out to market? It feels much like how thermostats were before Nest.
This post was edited on 3/5/23 at 2:04 am
8
Posted on 3/5/23 at 3:05 am to BeepNode
We have had an Intermatic T106 240v timer for close to 25 years and it still works fine, the new ones look the same but I have no idea if they are built the same. They have a screw-down cover over the wiring buss and a hinged metal enclosure with a rubber seal. I know that there are ones that run via app but I honestly don't personally see me using the features. I just put the pins in to set it originally and turn it off and on manually if I need to. It is one place a basic mechanical timer/switch is perfectly functional and limits the number of things that can go wrong. YMMV
Posted on 3/5/23 at 8:12 am to BeepNode
quote:
I've noticed that almost every pool has a pool pump timer/switch that basically has exposed wires. These are usually pulling ~8 amps @ 120v. Some are even higher. Basically they have a flimsy little cover that easily pops on and off kinda loosely covering the hot wire terminals that are directly next to the switch that you flick on and off.
Are you sure your buying outdoor timers in a nema 3r box?
Could always just get a bigger N3R box and mount everything inside. Your local electrical supply should be able to get one.
Posted on 3/5/23 at 8:18 am to BeepNode
quote:
The smart timers out there are janky AF.
I have a Hayward OmniLogic system and don’t feel it’s “janky” at all.
Posted on 3/5/23 at 8:18 am to BeepNode
quote:
What is going on here? Do we need to build a better pool pump and put it out to market?
Maybe so. I'll design it and build it if you'll market/sell it. Wouldn't be hard to do at all.
I dont have experience with what you're talking about, but making a nice industrial timer setup would be easy.
Posted on 3/5/23 at 8:34 pm to BeepNode
I have a Wi-Fi Kasa plug controlling a relay that turns power on to the pump. Has been working flawlessly and has manual switching via Kasa plug.
Posted on 3/6/23 at 9:01 am to BeepNode
I currently have one of the manual timers on my cleaner and the main pump has the schedule built in. I'm thinking about upgrading my water feature and cleaner pumps to the outdoor Zwave controllers to integrate to my home hub. I'd prefer to just move the whole control to some kind of automation, but thats seems to cost quite a bit.
Posted on 3/6/23 at 2:55 pm to BeepNode
You talking about timers like this?
I have one on my pool as well as water heaters in the attic and never had any issues.
I have one on my pool as well as water heaters in the attic and never had any issues.
Posted on 3/6/23 at 4:48 pm to REB BEER
quote:
You talking about timers like this?
Thats what i have on my cleaner. Biggest issue is it gets out of whack if the power goes out. I burned up a pump because i didn't know that.
Posted on 3/6/23 at 8:55 pm to BeepNode
Heat shrink and a clasp lock. You don’t even need to find investors.
Posted on 3/7/23 at 7:46 am to billjamin
quote:
Thats what i have on my cleaner. Biggest issue is it gets out of whack if the power goes out. I burned up a pump because i didn't know that.
They make them with backup batteries. They'll only last a few days though.
Posted on 3/7/23 at 9:16 am to kengel2
quote:
They make them with backup batteries. They'll only last a few days though.
I did now know that. Usually its just the 1-2 hour outages that throw it off enough to put it out of cycle with the main pump. I'll have to see if I can retro fit a battery in or if i should just go to a digital or hub timer.
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