Suction side cleaner with variable speed pump?

[mas985]

My main question was whether or not I defeat the benefit of a VS pump (being able to run at lower RPMs) by using a suction-side cleaner, which has to be run a higher RPMs. I noticed you said the pressure-side cleaner by Poolvernuegen operates at a lower flow rate than others, do you know if this is also the case for their suction-side versions? If not, are there other effective suction-sides that I would likely be able to run at lower RPMs?

Yes the suction side does as well. That is the one I have. But even so, you will need higher RPM to run that than without it. Especially, if you want the skimmers to work at the same time. I am not saying it isn't worth it but you just have to take that into consideration.

Also, keep in mind that both Pentair and Hayward have shorter warranties now for DIYers. You get the longer warranty only when you have a professional install the pump.

[PoolDoc]

Also, keep in mind that both Pentair and Hayward have shorter warranties now for DIYers. You get the longer warranty only when you have a professional install the pump.

Makes sense, but I wasn't aware of that change. Do you know what the change is? (years vs. years)

[mas985]

You can read about it here:

http://www.poolspanews.com/retailing...ranties_o.aspx

But if you read the comments, it seems like some store owners are offering different incentives.

Here is the thread where it was originally discussed:

http://www.troublefreepool.com/threa...-changes/page2

[PoolDoc]

Thanks, Mark.

Interesting thread . . . though there seemed to be a lack of clarity. I'll need to check with my local wholesaler and directly with Pentair and Hayward. I have no idea how they could determine a "certified dealer". I'm going to guess that the distinction will boil down to, "Was it sold through channel, or direct?"

That said, I would guess that warranty claims for DIY work would be 2-3x higher than from tradesmen, with many of the claims resulting either from installation errors or confusion about the product itself. I've seen this both in pool work, and years ago, in plumbing work. That increase of cost would, by itself, justify the action purely on the grounds of business cost.

But in practice, if the product is installed promptly, there's not going to be big difference between 60 day claims, and 1 year claims. The problem is going to be with the phrase "installed promptly". If a homeowner dawdles about installing, he may lose the warranty while the product is still the box.

I think the solution here is going to the same as with the Summer Escapes pools (sold by Walmart / Sams Club): install PROMPTLY so it can be returned to the vendor if necessary!

[BigDave]

This could be an ugly trap for someone who buys end of the season inventory intending to install in the spring.

Personally, I would love to DIY less and hire professionals more often but I've been disappointed by so many "pros" that if I can, I'll do it myself.

[PoolDoc]

This could be an ugly trap for someone who buys end of the season inventory intending to install in the spring.

Excellent point.