What is out there?

[chris bippen]

Alright, I need to replace a 60a 240v pool pump disconnect with something that when power is lost, it will trip itself out, so that when power returns it has to be manually turned back on. Reason being, when power is lost, the water in the pipes (that come from the pool pump) drains back into the pool, leaving only the water in the pump resevoir to prime the pump at return of power. (which is not enough water to prime the pump) All this because of crappy installation of pool water pipes. I have been asked to fix this by installing some type of smart disconnect in replace of the regular 0-60a disconnect that can be left off at time off power return for pool guy to remove pump resevoir lid, and prime pump with water hose; At the same time, turn the disconnect back on. Any suggestions?? Chris B.

 

[chris kennedy]

Any suggestions?? Chris B.

Tell the pool guy to fix the leak.:wink:

 

[chris bippen]

Right! Instead of fixing digging it up and fixing the problem correctly, I have been asked to handle it.

 

[LarryFine]

That's simple enough: a contactor with a push-button paralleled with the latching contact, and coil voltage the same as the supply. In other words, the simplest kind of motor starter.

By the way, does the motor run 24/7 otherwise? If not, what happens when it cycles by the timer? Wouldn't a simple check-valve be even easier than my suggestion?

 

[chris kennedy]

Right! Instead of fixing digging it up and fixing the problem correctly, I have been asked to handle it.

It could be something as simple as a bad gasket or O-ring. When you say digging I have to assume some one has already checked the equipment.

 

[chris bippen]

pool pump problem

pool pump problem

ya know, that is a good question. i am not sure if it runs 24/7 or not. i would guess that it does. i'm looking at something called a pump director from a company by the name of gain industries. it looks the part, but i can't get any info on it till monday (by phone)

 

[boater bill]

I would have the pool guy install a check valve.
A contactor to drop out the pool pump on power loss is a pain and no one will ever reset it. 24/7 pool operation is also not energy efficient.
I hate it when we have to cover up for someone else's blunder's. I hope you will get a change order for the work.

Good luck!

 

[brian john]

Circuit breaker with under voltage release. Let the controls handle everything downstream of the CB, get the Stainless Steel enclosure, poor plumbing should = big buck repair.

 

[dbuckley]

I ferel I must be missing something here, because every DOL (Direct online) motor starter I've ever seen does this anyway...? How do Americans start small motors...?

 

[realolman]

I would say it is uncommon for manual starters to have under voltage drop out. It is an option on some types of manual starters. A line voltage coil holds a mechanical latch.

I would say the majority of industrial settings use the momentary contact arrangement Larry Fine described.

The OP talked about a disconnect ?

 

[Pierre C Belarge]

I highly doubt the pool runs 24/7. This make it more of a problem for the electrician.
What kind of occupancy is this?
It really might be a lot easier for the pool guy to install a check valve on the pipe in question.

 

[chris bippen]

thank you all for your replies. i have decided to use a 2.5 hp starter, it is expensive, but it will do the job.

 

[jinglis]

Something you may want to think about if the money is available is a timer to restart the magnetic starter if the loss of power is only for a brief moment. If there is a blip in the power the pump is down. With only a blip in the power you may not lose the pump prime and it may be safe to restart the pump without a service person around.