If you live in Port Orange, Florida and your filter pump motor dies you will face one of 3 options. Because of new laws that went into effect in last July (2011) you must install either a 2-speed or variable speed motor on your main circulation pump. To help you choose what to do if you are facing this decision I will talk a little about your options.

Replace your old single speed motor with a 2 speed motor. If you have a single speed timer i.e. Intermatic timer with a big yellow dial inside, you will also need to replace the timer with a 2 speed timer. Although the 2 speed motors are more efficient than single speed motors they are still basically constructed the same as they have been over the last decade. The housing is made of steel which is highly susceptible to rust and corrosion. Typically you should see 3-5 years of life out of these old style motors.

Replace your single speed motor with a variable speed motor. The cost for variable speed motors is more expensive than 2 speed motors. However, you can operate these motors with your existing timer. When you take into consideration option #1 having to replace both the timer and motor then option #2 is less expensive because you only need to replace the motor. Variable speed motors are also more energy efficient than 2 speed motors. You will see $60-$75 of electricity savings each month when replacing a single speed motor.

Install a brand new variable speed pump. If your pool pump was installed over 5 years ago I highly recommend this option. Because of the age of the plastic housing and internal components you may be looking at a major part of your existing pump cracking and breaking in the near future. The newer variable speed pumps are ultra quiet and energy efficient. Many models have digital programming so you do not even need a timer. The typical lifespan of variable speed pumps should be 5+ years. You will save on average $60-$95 per month on electricity.

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