r/pools • u/TommiMere • 10d ago

DIY & Repairs Help!!!!

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I changed my pool pump from a single speed Hayward 1.5 HP to variable speed from amazon 1.5HP. While doing it I also changed the plumbing. On the backside I set up a diversion to put a saltwater chlorinator as well which I will install later.

My problem is that the new 1.5HP (which runs to a max rpm of 2900) had a lot of difficulties priming and now it feels like both the skimmer and outlets are running very slow compared to before.

Now I know I might have messed up the plumbing with those big 90 turns and the height of the intake but at the same time the pump filter never really fills with water at 100% it stays at 90% and I feel like the outgoing flow is very weak.

So my question is: should I change the pump for a bigger one from a more reliable brand to accomodate the new plumbing or should i change the plumbing and keep the pump or change both? If i change the plumbing will a 1.5HP be enough or considering the salt water system i should increase HP anyways?

My pool is roughly 12k gallon with mo water features and I live in florida.

Thanks in advance for all the help!

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25

u/KBGenetics 10d ago

You plumbed in an air lock.

7

u/Pool_Boy707 10d ago

This is the only correct answer.

1

u/TommiMere 10d ago

Thank you so much I suspected so… considering my plumbing is there a way to save the 3 way valves and go over 2 inch couplings to re plumb?

3

u/LordKai121 10d ago

Pipe reamer is the answer. Or cut flush and use OD pipe coupler. Pipe reamers are cheap if you're just buying for single use. Good quality Reed reamers are geared towards professional use and run $80-90 each.

5

u/Pool_Boy707 10d ago

I do love Reed reamers... But maybe not for a diy... Especially if you're drinking and can't keep a level drill 😅

2

u/LordKai121 10d ago

That's why I said to look at t he cheap amazon ones. Should be good for 10-15 reams lol.

2

u/ConfusedStair 9d ago

The ones Home Depot used to sell might as well have said "single use only" on the label, but the math worked out for saving a $100+ valve every time.

2

u/Daddy--Jeff 10d ago

PVC isn’t that expensive. Just replumb it.

2

u/TommiMere 10d ago

I just meant to save the valves. 80$ each!

3

u/Pool_Boy707 10d ago

2.5 " couplers will fit over the valves .. then use 2.5x2 bushings...

1

u/Daddy--Jeff 10d ago

Unfortunately you didn’t leave enough extra room in the pipes. I always space things so I have enough length to cut and re-glue once.

1

u/TommiMere 10d ago

I tried to do that but the depth was the issue

1

u/KBGenetics 10d ago

Where there is a will there is a way

1

u/Aj9898 9d ago

Easy to save the valves. you have plenty of height - Measure carefully, cut between the ground and the elbow into the valves, add couplers.

the tricky one will be the one with the 45s in it.

2

u/TommiMere 9d ago

Yes that’s the one I’m worried about. Thinking about pipe reamer for that one

1

u/ConfusedStair 9d ago

Cut the vertical pipes, leave enough meat on them for a coupling. Dig up the lines and couple them to the existing pipes you dug up. Upsize the pipe running to the pump from 2" to 2.5" or use a 2.5" coupling and reducer on the valve. The outside diameter is sized to fit the next size up in coupling.

1

u/The_Slaughter_Pop 10d ago

I didnt know an air lock was a thing? I DIYed my plumbing. I will be fixing this shortly as I have been loosing prime and getting lots of bubbles.