Published by Matt Fichera on 07/01/2020
Should I Invest in Swimming Pool Automation?
Siri, Cortana, Bixby, Google Home, Cortana and more. There is no shortage of virtual assistants these days. Sometimes it can be hard to keep them all straight let alone the things they are tasked to automate and simplify.
Many home systems have jumped on board the same way of thinking. The “internet of things” continues to grow and your swimming pool and/or hot tub is definitely no exception.
Automation gives you complete control and monitoring ability for convenient handling of your swimming pool and all of its features. Some of these can even connect into your already established home automation system or even the many named assistants already mentioned.
How Does Swimming Pool Automation Work?
Automation allows you to loop in and control all of the systems that maintain your pool in one place and that control panel can be anywhere in the world. The ability to do this is accomplished through the use of relays and actuators that both regulate flow and operate switches. It is probably most common to loop in the pump and heater but the filter, chemical dispensers, water features, lighting, and spa can also follow suit. But you don't just have to take our word for it. In the video below, John Cameron, New England Territory Manager for Pentair, stops into our Derry, NH retail store location to speak about the latest in swimming pool automation, the Pentair Intellicenter, and the most recent additions to this amazing technology.
How Much Does Swimming Pool Automation Cost?
When you think of how powerful this technology actually is and the convenience that it provides, the price range of 2k to 5K is actually more economical than some other pool accessories out there. Some brands vary in pricing a bit as well as differences in how much pool equipment you are choosing to automate. We would suggest connecting everything to maximize both value and convenience but also to avoid service charges if you choose to connect things at a later date. Automation has been proven in the long run to help save you money on electrical and chemical costs.
Can My Pool Be Upgraded for Pool Automation at a Later Date?
Yes, your pool can most certainly be upgraded at a later time for automation. Everyone’s budget is a bit different and there are definitely different ways of looking at this. If you wait until a later date you may end up paying an increased price on the system because it isn’t part of the new pool project. You would also have to pay for the service technician to install it versus wrapping their time into the project initially. The other side of this is that it’s not a required system and postponing it may get you other installation add-ons that you value more with a chance to save money for automation in the future.
What are the Pros and Cons of Pool Automation Systems?
Pool automation creates a better pool system overall and it is easy to upgrade later if you so desire. Utilizing automation contributes to saving you money by improving efficiency. You can also gain convenient pool system access on your smartphone, or tablet. Pool automation can be connected to virtual assistants like Alexa but also can seamlessly integrate as a natural extension into other home automation systems such as: Crestron, Control 4, ELAN, Savant, Lutron, AMX and more. Pool automation can in many ways be complicated and technical. There is definitely some technology being developed now but you still can’t completely optimize your water remotely. This however, at some point, may in fact change to include water quality testing remotely.
Should I Invest in Swimming Pool Automation?
Pool automation is a great fit for those that pick up the use of technology quickly or are great at learning new things. The system shows its most impact in cases where the filter system is complex, or there’s lots of water features, or maybe even in those setups where the pool equipment is a long way from your house and/or the pool. A pool automation system may not be a good fit if you have a basic pool or you don’t like the idea of including more technology in your backyard. Pool Automation is designed to make your life easier and if investing in it accomplishes this then we would say you should go for it. Wouldn’t it be nice to check in on and operate your pool from anywhere in the world? With a smartphone app connected to an automation system you can.
What Pool Automation System Should I Purchase?
At E-Z Test Pool Supplies we recommend and install the Pentair Intellicenter for Pool and Spa systems.
IntelliCenter Installation Guide
More information on these can be found in the helpful videos below.
