Pool Automation Simplified

Remote control automation in the pool industry has been around for quite a while.  Starting with wired remotes, to short-range wireless... pool owner's have been able to operate and view their equipment from remote controls for the last 2-3 decades.  However, it's been pretty limited, somewhat cumbersome, and expensive.

The pool industry is also FINALLY starting to catch up to the Google Nest, Amazon Alexa, and various other home, auto, landscape automation control methods.  Due to limitations with older equipment, valves, and far-reaching wi-fi signals, pool automation has often lagged behind, which has presented different set of obstacles to overcome.

A newer automation released from Pentair a little over a year ago could shape the industry and automation moving forward.  It's NOT the bells and whistles, expensive type of automation.  It's a simpler, wifi based with smart relay automation that surely has room to grow.  The Pentair IntelliConnect is aimed to replace the standard Intermatic T104 (or similar) mechanical time clock.  Very simple!

The Pentair IntelliConnect IS NOT designed to be installed on more complex pool/spa combos, or equipment with multiple pieces of equipment.  It's just designed to work with pool or spa only and 5 devices.  Wire your Pentair IntelliFlo communication wires, Pentair IntelliChlor salt system, light, and heater if you have one.  You create your account, enter your registration number that's provided right on the inside of the power center... and voila you're connected.  Of course, mounting and electrical from each piece of the equipment will need to be completed first!

The "advanced" capabilities that render this automation promising and closer to Google, Amazon, and other automation devices are these 3 simple items...

• Smart Relays. Each device can be told to communicate exactly the way the device was intended.  You have Jandy/Zodiac or Hayward LED color-lights?  It will talk to these lights and enable them to operate each color mode as intended.
• Updates.  As more features are added, Pentair can update the IntelliConnect directly to the mobile device app.
• Wifi.  As long as your wifi signal is strong to the power center... you will be OK.  Set-up is lightning quick.  If you have limited wifi from your wireless router to the pool equipment area... consider adding an extender in between.  Extenders are very cheap these days, and can be seamlessly integrated.
• Not reliant on temp sensors.  The IntelliConnect takes it's info from Accuweather to enable freeze protection. If Accuweather says it's at freezing temps, your pump will turn on (if enabled).Above anything else, this is how the IntelliConnect separates itself from other automation systems, and will surely be incorporated into future enhancements.

If you have a simple set-up, pool or spa ONLY. with 5 devices or less. you may want to look into the IntelliConnect.  You'll be able to control your system from your mobile device. Operate your equipment without having to go the the equipment panel at night.  And be able to view status and alerts right from your mobile device.

Expect to pay anywhere from $500.00 to $700.00 for installation, a wide gap from the $2,500.00-$4,500.00 for most complete, higher-end pool automation installs.  

If you do have a pool/spa combo or want something with more customization... check out the Pentair IntelliCenter (new), Pentair IntelliTouch (the predecessor bul ultra reliable) to the IntelliCenter, Pentair EasyTouch and EasyTouch PL4.  All systems work great, they just need to be fit with your needs and pool equipment requirements.

If you have any questions on which system is best for your pool equipment, you can contact anyone at Love Pool Care. We sell, program, repair, and install any type of automation from Pentair, Zodiac/Jandy, or Hayward.