As a pool industry professional, staying ahead of the curve with the latest technology is key to offering clients the best possible ownership experience. From chemistry management to remotely opening and closing covers, pool automation is one of the fastest-growing aspects of the industry, providing homeowners with convenience, efficiency and cost savings—all at their fingertips.

By integrating automation into your product offerings, pool and spa businesses can help clients optimize their pool’s performance, simplify maintenance, and enhance their overall enjoyment, while boosting their bottom line. Here is how to position pool automation as a must-have upgrade for today’s tech-savvy pool owners.

Why should clients consider pool automation?

Automated systems allow pool owners to control all aspects of their pool from the convenience of a switch or mobile device. As with other smart home technologies, these options offer a variety of benefits to owners, including:

• Reduced energy costs and extended equipment lifespan—By programming pool equipment to run during off-peak hours, homeowners can lower energy bills and reduce wear and tear on their pumps, heaters, and filters.
• Simplified maintenance—No more guesswork or manual adjustments. Cloud-based apps allow pool owners to monitor and maintain precise pool chemistry from the convenience of
  a smartphone.
• Enhanced safety and control—For families with children or rental property owners, automation can regulate access and control pool functions remotely, ensuring safe and appropriate usage.
• Customized pool experience—From automated lighting and water features to temperature adjustments and party modes, automation allows for a fully personalized and enjoyable pool environment.

All of these conveniences can be delivered via an advanced cloud-based system that gives pool owners total control of their pool from anywhere, optimizing water quality, temperature, and energy use in real time.

An advanced cloud-based system intelligently adjusts heating, chilling, and filtration cycles by analyzing historical performance and weather conditions. This saves owners money while keeping the pool perfectly prepped for every swim.

With automated chemistry management, smart lighting integration, and leak detection alerts, these systems provide smart, hassle-free control. Some companies even produce them in a mini size for homeowners looking for a more cost-friendly option.

By educating customers on these advantages, pool and spa businesses can position themselves as trusted experts and help customers make informed decisions about upgrading their pool systems.

What can be automated?

Today’s pool automation technology extends far beyond just controlling the pump and filter. The latest systems provide seamless integration across multiple pool features, including:

• Pump, filtration, and heating systems—Automatically schedule run times for optimal energy efficiency.
• Lighting and ambiance—Program multi-colour LED lighting effects to set the mood for any occasion.
• Water features—Control fountains, waterfalls, and bubblers with a single tap.
• Chemical monitoring and dosing—Maintain perfect water balance with automated pH and chlorine regulation.
• Security and access—Set limits on pool use for safety and remote control for vacation mode.

With a cloud-based pool management system, pool owners can take their experience even further. Imagine setting a “party mode” that activates a synchronized light and music display or a “vacation mode” that maintains pool chemistry while homeowners are away. The possibilities are endless.

How pool professionals can leverage automation

For builders, installers, and service providers, pool automation is more than just a convenience—it is a valuable upselling opportunity that enhances customer satisfaction and long-term retention. Here is how to integrate it into your business strategy:

• Present automation as a standard feature—Position smart controls as an essential component of any modern pool package.
• Educate homeowners—Walk clients through the benefits of automation during consultations and highlight long-term cost savings.
• Provide upgrade paths—Many automation systems are modular, allowing homeowners to start with basic controls and expand over time.
• Use automation to streamline service contracts—Remote monitoring capabilities can alert service providers to issues before they become costly repairs, improving efficiency and customer loyalty.

For today’s homeowners, convenience is king—and pool automation delivers exactly that. By embracing automation in their business, pool and spa businesses can provide clients with a smarter, more energy-efficient and enjoyable pool experience while driving higher-value sales and long-term customer relationships.

Evening lighting transforms a backyard pool into a serene space, demonstrating customizable automation features.
Image edited using ChatGPT (DALL·E) using a photo courtesy Latham Pool Products Inc.

Author

Mike Fox is the vice president of product, fibreglass and autocovers for Latham, The Pool Company, and has 15 years of experience in the pool industry. He previously served as North American director of sales for fibreglass pools, as well as regional sales director and product director for fibreglass pools. Earlier in his career, he was director of commercial finance.