The Truth About Pool Circulation and Efficiency

Pool Pros text questions here

In this episode, Natalie Hood interviews Sean McDermott from H2 Flow to bust common myths about pool water circulation, flow measurement, and system efficiency. They explore how proper understanding and technology can improve water quality, safety, and energy use in pools.

keywords

pool water circulation, flow measurement, VFD, pool system efficiency, water quality, pool safety, flow meters, pool automation, pump protection

key topics

• Myth of continuous circulation with pump running
• Flow rate vs filtration effectiveness
• Importance of accurate flow measurement
• Role of VFDs in energy savings
• Mechanical issues masquerading as chemical problems

guest name

Sean McDermott

Sound Bites

• "Flow measurement is critical for safety"
• "VFDs are widely used in pools now"
• "Reducing pump speed saves energy"

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Pool Water Movement and Misconceptions

00:55
Sean McDermott's Background and Industry Journey

03:35
The Industry Setup and Education in Pool Management

05:57
Myth 1: As long as the pump runs, circulation is proper

08:47
Myth 2: Higher flow always means better filtration

10:09
The importance of accurate flow measurement

11:42
The significance of flow measurement for safety

13:15
Flow meters: Accuracy matters

14:22
VFDs in residential and commercial pools

16:02
Modern VFDs and their ease of use

17:36
Autofill systems and automation benefits

18:56
Durability of outdoor pool systems

20:27
Pump protection and system safety

21:37
Low flow alarms and their role

23:30
Energy efficiency and pump speed reduction

25:01
Adjusting for environmental factors in pool operation

26:47
Water quality issues: Chemical vs mechanical causes

28:04
Mechanical issues masquerading as chemical problems

32:21
Final thoughts and advice from Sean McDermott

Resources

• H2 Flow
• NSF International NSF 50 Standard
• VFDs in Pool Systems
• Sean McDermott on LinkedIn

Support the show

Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Tik Tok

Email us: [email protected]