Pool Booster Pumps for Commercial Heaters

For over decades, swimming pool heaters worked using mechanical bypass valves. This structure enabled pool heaters to get the correct quantity of pool water needed for proper functioning. The amount of water flow has the power to destroy pool heaters. Excessive water flow can wear down heaters while little water flow can deform pool heaters. So, pool experts have come up with an alternative for the mechanical bypass valves. The evolution of pool booster pumps has helped pool owners overcome the shortcomings of these conventional structures. But how do they work? Are booster pumps for commercial pool heaters worth it?

The first problem

One of the major issues of the mechanical bypass valve is passing incorrect amounts of water to pool heaters. The water flow gets affected by the position of the mechanical valve, the filter, and debris. Thus, continually monitoring water flow is necessary. It will enable you to adjust the valve or filters in case of excessive or little water flow. Needless to say, this can be exhausting. I mean, no one has the whole day to watch over pool water flow. Moreover, many pool problems result from inappropriate quantities of water flow.

The second problem

Typically, a mechanical bypass valve won’t facilitate heating when on savings mode. Thus, the valve can’t send proper water flow when switched off or in savings mode. Pool owners, therefore, have to turn on the heater alarm if they plan on saving energy.

The Solution

The above problems can get resolved by putting in place booster pumps. Most homeowners have found this device useful and way better compared to the mechanical bypass valve.Pool booster pumps incorporate automatic functioning that fosters the proper flow of water to the pool heaters all day long. These pumps do not get affected by the filters or debris. Additionally, even when on savings mode, they still facilitate the right water flow to the heating systems. Today, the majority of homeowners prefer installing pool booster pumps when constructing their pools.

Apart from solving the most common problems caused by mechanical valves, pool booster pumps are energy saving. Thus, they offer value for money. But how much do you save?

Money-saving

During a previous project, about 280 gallons of water got lost in one minute when offering 150 gallons of water per minute to pool heaters. This scenario happens when using a 5 HP pump and is not energy saving. Moreover, heating occurs for an average of 8760 hours annually when using these pumps.

On the other hand, providing a flow of 150 GMP using a 3 HP pump is different. Unlike the mechanical bypass valve, the heating occurs for about 2000 hours annually. Thus, pool owners have two options. It’s either they install the booster pump using 3 HP of energy. Alternatively, they can purchase or the mechanical valve that heats for 8760 hours.

Furthermore, pool booster pumps do not lead to pool service problems and save on pool maintenance costs. Ultimately, you can save thousands just by putting in place a booster pump.

Usually, commercial pools in operation for approximately ten hours can incur costs of $6200 in one year. This happens when the pool operates with a 10 HP pump incorporating a maximum velocity of 60 Hz. Suppose the pool can run at a maximum speed of 30 Hz during a turndown, pool operators save $1800 annually.

What is the average cost of a booster pump?

Pool booster pumps are quite expensive, mainly due to the labor costs. They are a feature found on high end custom pools. Contrary to popular belief, the pumps could go for as low as $200. Also, they could cost as high as $900. It all depends on the type of booster pump you choose.

Installation costs will vary depending on your pool service company or pool contractor. Also, the prices will vary depending on the additional features you wish to install. For instance, pool owners can decide to install bypass loops. These loops facilitate the continuous flow of water even without support from the booster pump.

Plumbers or contractors charge an average of $1000 for booster pump installation. Even so, the cost varies based on their experience and credibility. Thus, labor expenses range from $500 to $1500.

Factors to consider when buying a booster pump

Additional features

Several types of booster pumps contain features like check valves, pain relief valves, among others. So, it is good to evaluate the specific features pool booster pumps provide. This way, you can identify whether it’s cost-effective.

Pressure regulator

Some booster pumps come with pressure regulators. On the other hand, some of them need customers to buy a separate pressure regulator. Thus, individuals should check whether the cost is inclusive of the pressure regulator. Also, do not forget to include the installation costs of the pressure regulator.

Materials

Booster pumps vary in materials, shapes, and sizes. But it would be best to settle for pool booster pumps made from high standard equipment. A good booster pump has a resistant stainless-steel material.

Conclusion

It is possible to solve your pool problems through booster pumps. So, pool owners should consider incorporating pool booster pumps. These devices save you a lot of maintenance and revamp costs. Furthermore, they promote the durability of your pool heater. You also have the chance to save on energy without jeopardizing your heating systems.