Plastica Argonaut Pump 0.33HP 0.24kW Single Phase (AV50-2DN-S)

💧 Compact, efficient, and whisper-quiet circulation for small pools, spas, and water features

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📋 Product Overview

The Plastica Argonaut AV50-2DN-S represents the next generation in swimming pool pump technology, combining Italian engineering excellence with modern efficiency standards. This compact 0.33HP pump delivers reliable, quiet performance for small to medium-sized swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, and decorative water features.

Built by ITT HydroAir, the Argonaut series has earned its reputation through decades of proven reliability in demanding aquatic environments. The AV50 model features a chemical-resistant polypropylene body, an IPX5-rated totally enclosed motor, and intelligent design elements that make installation and maintenance remarkably straightforward. With self-priming capability up to 3 metres and a transparent inspection lid, this pump offers both performance and practicality.

TÜV certified to EN60335 standards, the Argonaut AV50 provides peace of mind for residential and light commercial applications where dependable water circulation is essential.

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⭐ Key Features

• ✅ Compact Modern Design – At just 533mm in length, the AV50 fits into tight installation spaces while delivering full-size performance, perfect for retrofit projects or space-constrained pump rooms.
• ✅ Self-Priming Up to 3 Metres – Eliminates the need for foot valves and simplifies installation in above-ground or elevated applications, saving both time and money during setup.
• ✅ Transparent Inspection Lid – Check strainer basket debris levels at a glance without disassembly, reducing maintenance time and preventing unnecessary system interruptions.
• ✅ Chemical-Resistant Polypropylene Construction – Engineered to withstand chlorine, bromine, iodine, and saltwater environments, ensuring long service life even in aggressive chemical conditions.
• ✅ Whisper-Quiet Operation – Approximately 60dB noise level makes it suitable for indoor installations, residential gardens, or near entertainment areas without disturbing occupants.
• ✅ IPX5 Rated Totally Enclosed Motor – Protected against water jets and dust ingress, the motor delivers reliable performance in humid or outdoor environments year after year.
• ✅ Large Capacity Strainer Basket – Captures debris efficiently, reducing cleaning frequency and protecting downstream equipment from damage.
• ✅ AISI 316 Stainless Steel Shaft & Seal – Premium materials resist corrosion in saltwater and chemically treated water, dramatically extending seal life compared to standard materials.
• ✅ 2¾” BSP Threaded Connections – Standard plumbing threads on both inlet and outlet simplify installation and provide leak-free sealing with readily available fittings.
• ✅ TÜV Certified Safety – Independently tested and certified to EN60335-1 and EN60335-2-41 standards, meeting stringent European safety and performance requirements.

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🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Detail
Model	AV50-2DN-S
Brand	Plastica / ITT HydroAir
Series	Argonaut
Power Type	Single Phase
Horsepower (HP)	0.33 HP (0.32 HP nominal)
Power Output (P2)	0.24 kW
Power Input (P1)	0.45 kW
Voltage/Frequency	230V / 50Hz
Motor Rating	IPX5 (Totally Enclosed)
Maximum Head	Approx. 9-11 metres
Maximum Flow Rate	Up to 96 LPM (litres per minute)
Self-Priming Capability	Up to 3 metres
Connection Size	2¾” BSP thread (inlet & outlet)
Body Material	Glass-filled polypropylene
Shaft Material	AISI 316 stainless steel
Seal Type	Carbon/ceramic mechanical seal
Noise Level	Approx. 60 dB
Ambient Temperature Range	Max 40°C
Dimensions (L×W×H)	533mm × 235mm × 313mm
Weight	Approx. 15kg
Certification	TÜV (EN60335-1 / EN60335-2-41)

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💰 Usage Costs & Running Expenses

📊 Annual Running Cost Calculation

Understanding the true cost of ownership helps you make informed decisions. Here’s a transparent breakdown of operating costs:

🏊 Typical Seasonal Usage (6-Month Pool Season)

• Power Input: 0.45 kW
• Usage: 8 hours/day × 180 days = 1,440 hours/year
• UK Energy Rate: £0.24 per kWh (October 2024 average)
• Annual Running Cost: £155.52

Calculation: 0.45 kW × 1,440 hours × £0.24 = £155.52/year

♨️ Year-Round Operation (Heated Pool/Spa)

• Usage: 6 hours/day × 365 days = 2,190 hours/year
• Annual Running Cost: £236.52

Calculation: 0.45 kW × 2,190 hours × £0.24 = £236.52/year

💸 Cost Comparison vs. Older Technology

Compared to older 0.5HP pumps (typical 0.55kW input):

• ❌ Older pump annual cost (1,440 hours): £190.08
• ✅ Argonaut AV50 annual cost: £155.52
• 💵 Annual Saving: £34.56
• 💷 3-Year Saving: £103.68

⚡ Energy Efficiency Advantage: The AV50’s modern motor design achieves approximately 53% efficiency (P2/P1 = 0.24/0.45), compared to typical 45-50% in older pump designs. Over a 10-year lifespan, this efficiency translates to savings of £345+ compared to less efficient alternatives.

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🎯 Real World Examples & Applications

1. 🏊‍♂️ Residential Swimming Pools (Up to 30,000 Litres)

The AV50 is ideally suited for small domestic pools measuring 4m × 8m or smaller. It provides complete water turnover in 6-8 hours, maintaining crystal-clear water quality. Typical installation includes connection to a sand or cartridge filter system with single or multi-port valves.

2. 🛁 Hot Tubs & Spa Systems

Perfect for jetted spas and plunge pools requiring reliable circulation. The whisper-quiet operation (60dB) won’t disturb relaxation, while the chemical-resistant construction withstands the elevated sanitizer levels common in spa applications. Self-priming capability simplifies installation in raised spa installations.

3. 🌊 Garden Ponds & Water Features (Up to 20,000 Litres)

Provides gentle circulation for decorative ponds with fish or aquatic plants. The 3-metre self-priming capability allows flexible pump positioning away from the pond edge, while the large strainer basket protects against leaves and debris.

4. 🏢 Indoor Pool & Leisure Facilities

The totally enclosed IPX5 motor protection makes the AV50 suitable for humid indoor environments including residential basement pools, swim spas, and small hydrotherapy pools where moisture levels are consistently high.

5. 🔄 Filter System Upgrades

As a direct replacement for ageing Swimmey or equivalent pumps, the AV50 offers modern efficiency without requiring pipework modifications. The standard 2¾” BSP connections match most existing UK pool installations from the past 20 years.

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💡 Cost Savings Examples

Example 1: Replacing a 15-Year-Old Pump

📍 Scenario: Homeowner with 25,000L pool replacing a 2010-era 0.5HP pump

• ❌ Old pump power consumption: 0.55 kW
• ❌ Old pump annual cost (1,440 hrs): £190.08
• ✅ New AV50 annual cost: £155.52
• 💰 Annual saving: £34.56
• ⏱️ Payback period: Approximately 7-8 years
• 📈 10-year total savings: £345.60

Calculation assumes pump retail price of £250-280 and energy rate of £0.24/kWh

Example 2: Running Costs vs. Oversized Pump

📍 Scenario: Pool owner currently using an oversized 1HP pump for a small pool

• ❌ Oversized pump (0.75 kW input): £259.20 annual cost
• ✅ Right-sized AV50 (0.45 kW): £155.52 annual cost
• 💰 Annual saving: £103.68
• 📊 3-year savings: £311.04

This example demonstrates the importance of correctly sizing pumps to pool volume – bigger isn’t always better

Example 3: Seasonal vs Year-Round Operation

📍 Scenario: Comparing seasonal outdoor pool to year-round heated pool/spa

• ☀️ Seasonal operation (180 days): £155.52/year
• 🔥 Year-round operation (365 days, 6hrs/day): £236.52/year
• ➕ Additional cost for year-round: £81.00/year

Calculation: [(2,190 hrs – 1,440 hrs) × 0.45 kW × £0.24] = £81

Understanding these operational patterns helps budget for heated pools, swim spas, or four-season aquatic facilities.

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📥 Downloads & Resources

📄 Product Documentation:

• Argonaut Installation & User Manual – Complete installation instructions, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting guide in 6 languages (PDF, multilingual)
• Argonaut Technical Datasheet – Full specifications, dimensions, performance curves, and spare parts diagrams (PDF)

All documentation includes wiring diagrams, dimensional drawings, and TÜV certification details

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🏆 Why Choose the Plastica Argonaut AV50

• ✅ Proven Italian Engineering – Decades of ITT HydroAir innovation delivering reliable aquatic circulation solutions across Europe
• ✅ Energy Efficiency That Saves Money – Modern motor design reduces running costs by up to 18% compared to older pump technology, with documented annual savings of £34+
• ✅ Maintenance-Friendly Design – Transparent lid, large strainer basket, and modular construction mean you can perform routine maintenance in minutes without specialist tools
• ✅ Chemical & Corrosion Resistant – Purpose-built materials withstand chlorine, bromine, saltwater, and UV exposure, ensuring years of dependable operation
• ✅ Whisper-Quiet Performance – 60dB operation level makes it suitable for installation near living spaces, patios, or noise-sensitive areas
• ✅ Flexible Installation Options – Self-priming up to 3m accommodates above-ground setups, eliminates foot valve requirements, and simplifies retrofit projects

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✨ Summary

The Plastica Argonaut AV50-2DN-S combines space-saving design, energy efficiency, and whisper-quiet operation in a robust, chemically resistant package. Ideal for small pools up to 30,000 litres, spas, hot tubs, and decorative water features, it delivers reliable circulation with running costs from just £155 annually. With TÜV certification, AISI 316 stainless steel components, and self-priming capability, this Italian-engineered pump represents excellent value for residential and light commercial applications. Choose the Argonaut AV50 for proven performance that keeps your water crystal clear season after season.