Replace dead Motor or entire Sta-Rite Pump

[jdpool]

Hi,

First of all thanks for any and all input. I currently have a Sta-Rite Max-Pro P6RA6G-207L 2HP Pump and the motor has died. The current motor is a B855 originally owned by A.O. Smith and now the motors are being built by Century Electric. The motor has died and I need to replace it but I am wondering if I would be better off replacing the entire pump versus just the motor. The new motor + O ring kit is around $260 if I want it shipped fast. My pool is only about 10,000 gallons and has an old Sta-Rite 2 filter system which runs at 19-21 PSI as long as I don't have the solar heater turned on. I have a booster pump for the cleaner. I also have a solar heater system that sits on my roof which is very high (26ft from ground), so the pump has to move water quite far which is why I assume they put in a 2HP motor. Lastly, I live in Texas and the motor gets quite beat up by the sun/heat.

I don't know what considerations I should explore when determining the right time to upgrade a pool system.I am by no means an expert but I do I like to learn and repair things myself. Again, any input or advice is welcomed and appreciated.

Thanks,

Josh

[Denniswiseman]

A 2hp motor seems quiet big for your system albiet you do have a lot of head to overcome with your solar system
Variable speed pumps are encouraged and some power companies offer a rebate on the cost when one is installed
I suggest you try posting on this Forum for a more positive response as a lot of them have changed motors and or pumps for variable speed pumps

[jdpool]

Thank you for the input. I will post there as well.

[Teapot]

jdpool, what does the pressure gauge read when the solar is on? What size is the plumbing?
I'm afraid I don't know a Sta-rite filter 2 so any more info would be welcome but when you are not running your solar you are wasting a lot of electricity at 19psi.

[jdpool]

Pressure with solar on is around 25-28 PSI and the plumbing is 2".

[Teapot]

OK jdpool, are there any other options on the motor front as it's clear you don't need a 2HP. Can you get a two speed motor for the existing wet end pump?
Any more info on your filter as I am not familiar with that one?
EDIT: Ok jdpool, I have found your filter, a cartridge filter so no multiport valve. That means you could go easily to a 1hp motor and still be just about OK with the heater on I would think. Haven't done the math as got to get off to work.

[jdpool]

How do you calculate that 1HP is enough? Do you think it would be helpful to get a 2 stage pump with the electronic timer on top and just bypass my current dial timer?

[Teapot]

Hi jdpool, I didn't calculate anything, it was just a rough stab based on your pressure gauge reading (way to much) and the height you'll need to pump. I can't see your system to even guess the loss through the solar or other plumbing. You need to look at the pump performance curve to get a better idea. If the plumbing is good you could probably get away with a .75hp pump having looked at a pump performance chart in front of me for a pretty standard pump.
When you are not using solar you'll only need a fraction of that power so you'll enjoy big savings.