Understanding Variable Speed Pumps in Swimming Pools

What is a Variable Speed Pump?

Purpose of Variable Speed Pumps in Swimming Pools

• Energy Efficiency: VS Pumps can significantly lower energy consumption by operating at lower speeds during routine tasks, like filtration. This leads to substantial savings on electricity bills, which is especially important for pool owners who run their pumps for extended periods. Measurable data has shown saving in excess of $500 while using a variety of speeds, not just low.
• Improved Water Quality: By allowing for longer filtration times at lower speeds, VS Pumps can enhance water circulation and chemical distribution. This ensures that the pool water remains clean, clear, and safe for swimming.
• Extended Equipment Lifespan: Operating at lower speeds reduces wear and tear on the pump and related components, leading to a longer lifespan for your equipment. This can ultimately save you money on repairs and replacements.
• Noise Reduction: Lower-speed operation typically results in quieter performance, making for a more enjoyable pool environment, especially during evening hours or gatherings. Virtually all VS Pumps are whisper quite, often making no more sound than the sound of water moving through it.

Scenarios for Different Speed Settings in Swimming Pools

1. Filtration and Cleaning

• Low Speed (30-50% of Maximum Speed):
• Best Use: For regular filtration, running the pump at low speed for longer durations allows for effective water circulation without excessive energy consumption. Typically, you can set the pump to run at this speed for 8-12 hours daily to ensure thorough filtration. This will not be high enough to run cleaning equipment effectively.
• Benefits: This setting provides a gentle flow that captures debris while also reducing the load on your filter. It helps in maintaining consistent water clarity and reduces the frequency of backwashing.
• Low speed also provides the biggest savings in power consumption running costs.
• Medium Speed (50-70% of Maximum Speed):
• Best Use: When performing routine cleaning tasks, such as running a pool cleaner or vacuuming. A medium speed increases the flow rate, allowing for more effective debris removal without sacrificing energy efficiency. In some cases a higher speed may be required for cleaning.
• It is also good practice to increase water flow occasionally to more vigorously circulate flow for better whole pool circulation. This can be done for short time intervals around 30 mins to 1 hour a day.
• Benefits: Using medium speed each day can significantly enhance the cleaning process, ensuring that corners and crevices are adequately addressed while still conserving energy compared to high-speed operation.
• High Speed (70-100% of Maximum Speed):
• Best Use: If experiencing insuficent flow to vacuum up debris or poor circulation due to design factors, then high speed will be required. Otherwise this level will rarely be required by most pools on a daily basis.

2. Water Features and Waterfalls

• Low Speed (30-50% of Maximum Speed):
• Best Use: When utilizing features like bubblers or small water fountains. This speed creates a gentle, serene effect while maintaining water movement.
• Benefits: Running these features at a lower speed enhances aesthetics and provides adequate water circulation without overpowering the senses.
• Medium Speed (50-70% of Maximum Speed):
• Best Use: Ideal for operating larger waterfalls or decorative features. This setting can provide a more dynamic flow that enhances the visual appeal of your pool area.
• Benefits: Medium speed is often sufficient for achieving the desired water effect while still being energy efficient.
• High Speed (70-100% of Maximum Speed):
• Best Use: Best reserved for dramatic effects, such as turning on a large waterfall quickly when entertaining guests or during special events.
• Caution: While this setting can create stunning visuals, it can also lead to significantly higher energy costs if used frequently.

3. Heating and Spa Functions

4. Chemical Distribution

• Low Speed (30-50% of Maximum Speed):
• Best Use: Standard daily opperation.
• Benefits: Low power consumtion results in biggest savings in running costs.
• Medium Speed (50-70% of Maximum Speed):
• Best Use: Useful after adding chlorine or other treatment chemicals, providing adequate flow to help disperse the chemicals throughout the pool quickly.
• Benefits: This helps achieve optimal chemical balance more efficiently than lower speeds while still being mindful of energy consumption.
• High Speed (70-100% of Maximum Speed):
• Best Use: Rarely needed for chemical distribution, this setting is generally reserved for situations requiring immediate chemical mixing or when addressing an urgent water quality issue.
• Benefits: Rapidly distribute chemicals when good circulation is important.

Conclusion