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View Full Version : New Pool pump need advise


billm-i
Jun 17, 2009, 09:19 PM
Hi
Just purchased a new pool pump and noticed that it is rated at 17 amps.
My old one was rated 8 amps
This is connected to a 15 amp breaker with 3 other outside outlets that are only really used at Christmas time pool is closed then.
Will I be able to run this pump safely?
It is a 2 hp pump 115v 17 amp continuous duty.

stanfortyman
Jun 18, 2009, 04:50 AM
That is a huge difference. Was there a reason you got a pump twice as big as the old one?

Safely is a relative term. What you have to definitely NOT to code and that pump technically should be run at 240v instead of 120v to keep it on a 20A circuit. The only way to run that pump code legally would be on a dedicated 30A circuit.
NO! You cannot simply change the breaker.
The pump also should not be on a circuit shared with other receptacles or outlets.

I have to even suggest this but your best bet would be to exchange the pump for a smaller one.

tkrussell
Jun 18, 2009, 02:11 PM
Since you only have a 15 amp circuit, the pump you get can only be 12 amp max running load at 120 volts.

Anything larger will require a new circuit to be installed.

Not knowing from nothing, are you sure your piping system can handle the flow of water from a larger pump?