You’ve got a lot of things to remember these days. How would you like to take something off of that list? By installing an automated control system for your pool, you can schedule, and manage everything from your filtration and sanitation cycles, heating, and adjusting the pump to turning on your spa and lighting.

A pool automation system is helpful to any pool owner. If you are a tech-savvy person and enjoy implementing new technology to manage your home and responsibilities, an automated pool system is a perfect addition to your smart home. If, however, you do not manage your life via your smartphone and tend to use an “old school” approach to managing your home, an automated pool system can still make your life much easier. Automation systems exist which require no mess of wires or installation of an ugly wall panel. They do not even require a charging base. The iAqualink is also compatible with virtually all residential WiFi and Ethernet networks. So even if you still balance your checkbook by hand, you can make managing your pool’s operations a breeze.

How does a pool automation system work?

Because Executive Blue Pools is an authorized Jandy dealer, we will use the iAqualink as an example. Today’s smart control systems connect wirelessly to your home network or via a wired Ethernet connection.

The Jandy iAquaLink™ system can be used on more mobile device platforms than any other pool automation system. The iAquaLlnk™ apps are available for Apple® devices as well as Androld® smartphones and tablets. They can be downloaded for free from the Apple® Apps store or Google Play®. A mobile web-app is also available for use on other types of smartphones, as well as tablets and eReader devices. The apps are designed to be used intuitively and feature simple graphics, making them easy to learn and use.

In the past, pool owners had to walk around and flip every switch individually to manage their pool’s operations. An automated system has a control hub that is connected to your pool’s filtration, pump, heater, and smart relays. Smart relays control features such as your lighting or booster pumps. The iAquaLink 2.0 Web Connect Device communicates with your internet router, allowing you to manage your pool and spa from anywhere via the iAquaLink app and your smart device. Your iAqualink system can also connect with virtual home assistants like Alexa.

How do you install a pool automation system?

The latest models of pool automation systems allow users to implement automation relatively easily to existing pool equipment. The process involves the electrical setup and basic software setup. A touchscreen control pad allows you to operate your equipment from the pool pad, even if you lose your internet connection. The control pad also can be remote from the pool and located where it is convenient to you. It takes two to six hours to install most of the latest automation system models.

It’s important to put safety first. In many states, automated pool systems must be installed and serviced by a contractor who is licensed and qualified in pool equipment. The contractor must be a professional with adequate experience in pool equipment installation and maintenance so that installation instructions are followed properly. Improper installation and/or operation will void the warranty. Improper installation and/or operation can create unwanted electrical hazards which can cause serious personal injury, property damage, or death. You may be able to set up the automation system software with ease, but if you are not a Jandy authorized dealer or professional electrician, it’s best to hire someone who is for the installation of the system. Not only will it ensure the system is installed properly and will function correctly, but it will also ensure your safety going forward.

Energy efficiency

Technology advances in automated control systems have given pool owners much greater control over their pool’s energy use. By easily accessing your system’s app on your smartphone, you can adjust your pool’s equipment and maximize its efficiency to control energy usage and cost. Flexible programming also allows users to save even more money by choosing to run equipment during off-peak times and schedule multiple shorter cycles instead of one long cycle.

Executive Blue Pools serves clients in Frisco, Plano, Allen and the surrounding communities. We have a pool service office in Frisco and another centrally located in Allen, TX to serve all of your swimming pool needs.

How much does pool automation cost?

Pool automation systems can be less expensive than many other pool features and accessories. A pool automation system can cost anywhere from $1,800 to $4,000. The total cost of an automated system is influenced by multiple factors:

• Your pool type: concrete with plaster or aggregate finish, tile, stone, fiberglass, or vinyl
• Your pool size
• If your pool has a hot tub or spa
• The brand and model of the automation system
• If the automation system includes a smartphone app

Pool automation pricing is also determined by how many pieces of pool equipment or landscape lighting you would like to control. If you have basic items like a pool pump, cleaner, and lights, then your price will be less. If you choose to control many items like a pump, cleaner, niche-less lights, spa light, pool light, blower, multiple sets of landscape lighting, and waterfall pumps, then your pricing will be higher. The Jandy iAquaLink system usually comes as a 4, 6, or 8 function system. However, the iAquaLink can be expanded to control up to 32 items. Since every pool is different, Jandy offers a variety of options that can be customized for your pool.

Worry-free pool service for busy people

At Executive Blue Pools, our mission is to provide worry-free pool service for our clients. While an automated pool system does not replace regular pool cleaning and maintenance, it does make managing your pool’s operation and features a million times easier. You are able to access and control up to 32 pool/spa features from a smartphone, tablet, or computer anytime. Planning on spending time in your pool or hot tub after work? You can turn on your heater or spa before you leave and come home to the perfect conditions. You can even check your pool’s chemical balance remotely and give EBP a call if a scheduled cleaning visit needs to be performed sooner than scheduled. If you’d like to know more about the Jandy iAqualink system or other pool automation systems, please give us a call.