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Multi-Speed and Variable Speed

Pool Pumps

 

Why?

 

Replacing a pool pump requires careful consideration. The right choice will result in substantial energy and cost savings.

Increasingly, manufacturers are producing multi-speed and variable speed pool and spa pumps. These new pumps are more efficient and very quiet, two good reasons to consider them.

Often, these pumps can be programmed to operate at different speeds and at different times to provide the correct flow rate to suit an application. This versatility may enable a single pump to be installed where previously there were two or more.

 

How it Works

 

The ability for these new pumps to achieve energy savings in the order of 40% to 75% is because of the Pump Affinity Law. This law describes the relationship between the speed of the centrifugal pump impeller, the water flow and the input power of the motor.

The data below describes how the law works:

 

  • A pool or spa pump operating at full speed (100%) will deliver 100% flow (max. flow)
  • A pool or spa pump operating at half speed (50%) will deliver 50% of max. flow
  • A pool or spa pump operating at half speed will reduce the friction losses in plumbing by 75%
  • A 75% reduction in the friction will result in the pump consuming only 12.5% of the electrical power
  • The other benefit with reduced friction is a (four time) reduction in noise levels

 

It must be noted however, that when you reduce the flow rate by 50%, you must increase the operating time period of the pump by 50%. This is to ensure the turnover of the water in each given 24hr period is sufficient, and as per generally accepted guidelines. However, the energy savings still result in a pump that uses 25% of the energy consumption of a standard single speed pump. 

A traditional pool or spa pump uses an induction motor whereas energy efficient pumps are now using Permanent Magnet Motors (PMM). These motors are approx. 20% more efficient than induction motors, so even where an installation dictates that the new pump must operate at full speed, a 20% energy saving can be achieved. 

When replacing a traditional pool or spa pump with a new energy efficient pump, the plumbing system and equipment connected to it must be evaluated to ensure it operates successfully with reduced water flow. New pools can be hydraulically engineered to ensure the energy savings are maximised with the use of multi-speed and variable speed pool and spa pumps.

 

If you cannot find a pump listed on our website, Contact Us Here or call (03) 9439 9214. 

 

 

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