I’m going to share some ideas to help you cut down on your chemical and energy usage.
Pool Controllers have come a long way from the larger control panels that were installed on the walls of homes. But, these models were cumbersome compared to what is now available today.
Basic Pool Timer
At the lowest level, there is a simple mechanical or digital timer that controls pump run times. As these timers are usually for the most basic type of pump, they are becoming less common than other timers. Basic pool timers are less common because they can’t be controlled from inside the home. You have to physically go outside to shut them off if you want to change anything on the run time of your pool pump.
Basic pool timers are also becoming less common as state governments (here in the US) are requiring that pool pumps now manufactured and sold be a variable speed pump. A variable speed pump allows you to run the pool pump at a higher speed during the heat of the day when the pool is being used.
During the night, the pump operates at a lower speed and consumes less electricity. Most pool pumps sold in the major pool markets are now required to be variable speed pool pumps as they require less energy.
Digital Pool Controllers
Digital Pool Controllers are for homeowners that want to control their equipment from the inside but aren’t looking for a controller that has a lot of extra features.
Digital pool controllers are great for homeowners that want more flexibility when they want to run their pump, pool heater, lights and other features. But, they don’t offer as many options as smart pool automation systems.
Programmable units that manage pumps, heaters, lights, and more.
Smart Pool Automation Systems
These systems are the most advanced automation systems. They are controlled by a smartphone (via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth). They can be compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, or smart hubs.
A smart pool automation system can manage everything including pumps, heaters, salt systems, lights, spa, water features.
These controllers are for smart homes that are specifically wired for high tech. They are also for pools where there are several features, like waterfalls, bubblers and overflow spas.
With Smart Pool automation systems, the owner can turn on the spa from their phone before they even arrive at the residence. It can also be used for just turning on specific pieces of pool equipment, like the heater or a pool pump.
With our pool, we use it just to turn on the waterfalls in the winter, so that the pipes don’t freeze.
These systems will work even if you are more than several hours away from the pump equipment. The technology is well advanced.
