Experts, I Need Help w/ First Pool Purchase

[webfeet]

Thanks Carl and Mark and everyone else. I am leaning toward a 2 sp 1 1/2 hp- will make all the comparsions recommended by you guys. I want the 2" pipe, but the builder wants a minimum of $2000.00 to go from 1 1/2" to the 2" ( this does not include the upgraded pump and filter: $600-$700 more). The charge for the pipe seems way to high. Are 2" pipe and fittings that much more expensive? My pool will be a grecian style (8 sides) 40'6" x 20'6". I will have 2 skimmers, 2 returns and a cozy cover semicircle spa (built into the wall, but still uses the pool water). The spa has 6 jets.
One other thing, 2 returns do not seem like enough? Are they? Thanks Web

[Poconos]

The only question I can answer is the price of the pipe.....WOW. $2K? I'm guessing as I don't keep those detailed records but maybe $3 more per 10' going from 1.5 to 2" pipe? Yes, 2" PVC is a little more expensive then 1.5 but just a little unless you're going copper. There is a bigger percentage difference when you talk ball valves. Just go to a Home Depot and check the plumbing aisle.
Al

[mas985]

$2k is way too much. After checking HD, go over the prices with the builder and see if there is not some mistake.

Also, you say you are leaning toward a 1 1/2 HP pump. Is that an uprated or full rated pump?

I guess I missed the spa before but a 1 1/2 HP uprated pump may not be enough for the spa if you are using a single pump or are you going with a separate pump? Each jet should have about 15 GPM to provide enough action. That is 90 GPM and if you figure on 60 feet of head for the spa, a 1 1/2 HP full rated Super II pump would only provided 12 GPM at best. Modest jet action. Hopefully, the builder will be using at least 2" piping for the spa.

So if you are going with a single pump, a 2 HP full rated 2 speed may be a better option but you should go with at least 2" plumbing. Otherwise a two pump solution may be better so you can get a low HP for the pool (3/4 HP) and a higher HP for the spa jets.