How to Upgrade Your Pool to a Smart Pool

Automation reduces weekly maintenance from 4.7 hours to approximately 30 minutes, resulting in over 200 hours of saved time annually. Converting your pool into a smart pool doesn’t have to be an expensive overhaul or a complete do-over. Virtually any pool can become a smart pool with some automated upgrades that give you smartphone (or voice assistant) control over heating, lighting, filtration, and chemical balancing. Smart pool technology is more accessible (and affordable) than many pool owners realize.

Converting your pool to a “Smart Pool” doesn’t necessarily mean jumping on the latest tech trend. It means beating the Central Texas heat and preparing for rising utility bills. Whether you want to qualify for an Austin Energy rebate on your next pump upgrade or cool your pool water to precisely 80 degrees before you leave work in downtown Austin, there’s an automated solution to reduce your pool-related stress.

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the key elements that make a pool a “smart pool”, and point you to the specific upgrades that have the most impact for Austin homeowners.

Essential Elements of a Smart Pool 

Think of a robotic assistant for your pool – now square that image with the fact that it’s a smart box filled with circuitry. The magic is in three components: the smart pool controller, smart-enabled pool equipment, and smart pool sensors that allow you to “see” into your pool. Control everything from your phone or tablet app or by using your voice!

Smart pools have become increasingly popular and more attainable for homeowners than you may realize. We have automated numerous pools for residents of Round Rock and all across the Austin metro area to be controlled from a smartphone. Let’s face it…Austin is quickly becoming known as “Silicon Hills” and your backyard should not be left behind. Picture yourself commanding “Okay Google, turn on the waterfall and fire pits” while you’re cooking brisket on the grill in the kitchen. We work with your existing smart technology, including Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit, to keep your pool in sync.

Smart Pool Hub (Controller)

This device acts as the “brain” of your automatic pool system by connecting all your smart-enabled pool equipment to one centrally located hub you can control from afar.

Controllers are Wi-Fi enabled and connect to your home router, allowing you to control various aspects of your pool like temperature settings, turning pool lights on and off, turning filtration cycles on and off, etc.

Controllers have features like: 

• Smartphone app connectivity 
• Voice assistant support (Alexa, Google) 
• Monitoring with real-time alerts 
• Scheduling and automation programs 
• Equipment status notifications 

Pentair’s IntelliCenter is the newest generation of Pentair automation technology. Now powered by the Pentair Pool app, the IntelliCenter has been designed from the ground up with easy-to-use navigation so you can manage all of your pool devices from anywhere. The IntelliCenter boasts a large, user-friendly touchscreen with step-by-step operational screens that make it easier than ever to set up, expand and update your pool automation system. Pool Professionals can now remotely monitor client equipment and be proactive in keeping pumps and equipment running smoothly. Enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ll have total control over all of your pool devices and spend less time trying to figure out how to get them to work together. Existing Pentair systems can be upgraded to IntelliCenter.

Pentair IntelliTouch and Pentair EasyTouch are proven legacy systems that continue to serve thousands of pool owners reliably. These older-generation panels offer broad compatibility across PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, and Android devices. While not as feature-rich as the IntelliCenter, these systems can be upgraded using IntelliCenter upgrade kits, making them a cost-effective choice for existing installations.

Hayward’s the newest entry into the pool automation game is the all-in-one OmniHub. With the ability to control nearly any pool, the OmniHub features control up to 3 high-voltage relays, 2 valves, 50 customizable favorites buttons, and 25 unique programmable themes. There’s also built-in WiFi so you can control your pool equipment from your smartphone app and voice assistants.

The OmniLogic boasts the largest set of features of any controller in it’s class. The OmniLogic also sports an easy to use panel that makes it simple to create up to 25 unique backyard themes. Keep your pool and devices upgraded with unlimited software upgrades.

OmniPro by Hayward and IntelliKNX by Jandy are older automation systems by Hayward and Jandy. They lack many of the newer features found in newer devices but work great for existing systems.

The Attendant is a cloud-based, WIFI-enabled automation controller that is gaining quite a bit of popularity with Airbnb owners and rental property managers. This NSF-certified controller allows you to control just about any brand of pool or spa device. Each unit also features built-in Airbnb & Guest mode to make life simpler when managing your rental property. Controls up to 50 variable speed pumps and devices. Choose from Standard or Mini configurations and add optional chemistry modules for automated chemical monitoring and dosing.

Jandy AquaLink Controller also comes with a water-resistant wireless remote perfect for use right by the pool. iAquaLink allows you to control your pool 24/7 from any smartphone no matter where you are.

Controller brands usually are compatible with various smart pool sensors. But many pool equipment manufacturers make controllers that are “compatible” with your existing pool equipment. So you won’t have to toss out your current pool equipment in order to upgrade to a smart pool.

Austin summers are brutal. If it’s 105 degrees outside, your pool is likely 95 degrees or hotter. Who wants to jump into a backyard hot tub?

Smart Pool Chillers

By integrating a smart chiller (i.e. Raypak Crosswind or Glacier pool cooler) into your Jandy iAquaLink, Pentair IntelliCenter or Hayward OmniLogic system you can keep your pool swimming temperature comfortable all summer long. Smart pool chillers can be added into your automation system so you can begin cooling pool water before you leave work and arrive home to a perfectly cooled 82 degree pool.

Smart chillers work by:

• Sense the temperature and automatically turn on when the water temp exceeds your set threshold.
• Alert you when cooling cycles on and off.
• Work in conjunction with your variable speed pump to maximize efficiency.
• Begin cooling the pool prior to you arriving home from work.

While we hate summer as much as you do, spending money on a smart chiller and automation system allows you to extend your swimming season throughout the summer months and actually enjoy August evenings.

Pools require chemicals to keep them clean and safe for swimming. The smart pool features a chemical balancing system that monitors and analyzes the water continuously throughout the day and automatically doses the required chemicals on demand.

The system consists of four key elements: 

• Sensors to analyze the water
• Chemical tanks 
• Chemical pumps 
• A computer program to run the show

Variable-speed pumps vary their power to meet your pool’s needs right now. Instead of always running at full speed like single-speed pumps, they can run slower or faster.

Advantages include: 

• Use 80% less electricity than standard pumps 
• Quieter at lower speeds 
• Prolongs equipment life 
• Improved water filtration 
• Qualify for Austin Energy’s $300 rebate

The initial cost of a variable-speed pool pump is more than a standard pool pump. However, most owners see the energy savings pay for the pump within 1-2 years. With Austin Energy offering a $300 rebate your costs are even lower.

Austin Energy Rebates

Before we jump into the cool features of smart pool automation. Here’s a pro tip that every Austin pool owner should know.

Getting your pool automated starts with the city of Austin paying YOU to upgrade.

If you’re a customer of Austin Energy or Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) you qualify for a $300 rebate when we install an ENERGY STAR® certified variable speed pump. Not only does this drastically lower your upfront costs for switching to a variable speed pump, but you cut your energy bill by up to 80%. For most Austin homeowners “Smart Pool” begins with upgrading to a variable speed pool pump and the City of Austin is literally paying you to make the upgrade.

Learn more about Austin Energy pool pump rebates

We know you didn’t think we’d forget about cedar fever. If you’ve lived in Austin for more than a couple years you know why we created this section: Cedar Season = Pollen Season = Death to your pool filter.

Smart automation helps you fight back:

• Automate your pool to run more filtration cycles per week when the pollen is at its worst.
• Receive notifications when your filter pressure reaches the level of “PROBABLY Clogged”
• Automate backwashing cycles to maintain optimal filter pressure
• Schedule your automatic pool cleaner more frequently during Cedar Season

Creating a “Cedar Season” pool mode in your automation system can increase cleaning cycles from 3 times a week to multiple times per day. Running more cleaning cycles during Cedar season can save you money by keeping your filter from clogging up too quickly and needing frequent repairs.

Let’s not forget about the great freeze of 2021. If you live in Austin and had a pool last February you know how important automated freeze protection is. Frozen and busted pool equipment and pipes is no joke and can easily cost homeowners $5k or more.

Protect Your Pool From Freeze Damage Automatically

• Most freeze damage can be avoided when your automation system has sensors that detect when the outside air temperature falls below 38 degrees.
• Your automation system can automatically turn your pump on to keep water moving (remember heat moves, stagnant water freezes)
• Receive instant alerts to your smartphone when freeze mode kicks on
• Allow the system to run until the air temp returns to normal temperatures above freezing.

If you’ve heard about a “blue norther” coming or forgot to configure your freeze schedule before leaving town – don’t sweat it! Your smart pool system can run day and night to keep your pool from freezing. Freeze protection alone can save you over $5k in repairs.

Austin has been known to drop us into stage 1 and stage 2 water restrictions. Luckily there are smart features that can help you stay within Austin Water’s guidelines.

Smart Leak Detection and Water Management:

• Get alerted the second a leak is detected on your phone.
• Add only the water your pool needs – helping you avoid wasting thousands of gallons and potential fines from Austin Water.
• Monitor your pool water levels over time.

With tougher water restrictions than most cities in Texas, even your pool water can be monitored to help you save on water costs.

Smart pools can be equipped with LED lights that can flash different colors and brightness. You can control them via smartphone or voice control, and you can even set up schedules to turn them on and off at the times you choose.

Here are just a few fun lighting options:

• Color-changing lights: Choose any color you can think of to make your pool look stunning
• Underwater lights: Illuminate the entire pool area for a party atmosphere
• Lights around the pool: Create a glowing effect for the walkways and landscaping around your pool
• Safety lights: Set up automatic lights to turn on at dusk for extra safety

You can control fountains, waterfalls, and other water features in the same way. With systems like Hayward OmniLogic and OmniHub (featuring 25 unique programmable themes), or The Attendant with its integrated entertainment features, you can create “party mode” themes that coordinate all lighting and water features with the push of one button, watching lights change colors while fountains dance in rhythm!

LED lights last much longer than traditional light bulbs and use less electricity, which saves you money on your electric bills.light bulbs and use less electricity, which saves you money on your electric bills.

An automatic pool cover is like a big blanket that goes over your pool. It magically rolls open and closed with the push of a button on your cell phone or a remote control.

Automatic covers are so great because: 

• They keep people safe by automatically covering the pool when no one is swimming
• They prevent 95% of evaporation, which is crucial during Austin’s hot, dry summers
• They keep leaves, dirt, and bugs out of the pool
• They keep the water warm, so you don’t have to heat it as much, and can help reduce excessive heat gain in summer
• They allow you to use less chemicals 

Automatic covers are costly to buy and install ($10,000 to $15,000), but they save you so much money in heating, chemicals, and water that they quickly pay for themselves. And they make swimming much safer for everyone!y pay for themselves. And they make swimming much safer for everyone!

Converting your existing pool involves taking inventory of your current equipment, choosing a smart controller, installing new smart devices, and connecting your devices to your home Wi-Fi network.

Access Your Existing Equipment 

Before we go shopping for new equipment, it’s important to test what currently works (and what doesn’t) in your existing pool system. This will not only save you money but will also help you make informed decisions on which smart devices to purchase.

Test Your Existing Equipment 

Take a good look at your pump, heater, and lighting. If any of your equipment is more than 10 years old, it may be due for replacement anyway. Most equipment manufacturers make their newer models compatible with automation systems.

Note the brand and model of each piece of equipment you have, and take note of the compatible options for home automation systems.

Test Your Wi-Fi Signal Strength 

Walk around your pool area with your phone and note the number of bars you receive when you are close to your equipment pad. Smart pool systems will need to have a solid internet connection in order to work properly and provide value to your system. If the signal strength is low, you will need to pick up a Wi-Fi extender, which you can place midway between your router and your pool equipment.

When installing smart pools in Leander and throughout the Austin area, we always check signal strength at the equipment pad to ensure your smart hub can provide real-time alerts without interruption.

Check Your Electrical Setup 

Count the number of available electrical outlets near your pool equipment. Keep in mind that all of your smart devices will need power connections in order to operate. Some of these smart devices may require new electrical lines installed by a licensed electrician.

Select Your Smart Controller 

Connectivity is key for a smart pool. We’ve seen that many newer builds in the Steiner Ranch area and other Austin-area master-planned communities already have the basic wiring needed for these upgrades, making the transition to a Smart Pool Hub even easier.

The controller will connect all of your smart pool devices and allow for everything to be controlled by one user interface or app.

Controller Type	Best For
Basic Hub (Hayward OmniHub)	Simple automation, budget-conscious
Advanced System (Pentair EasyTouch/IntelliTouch)	Full control, proven reliability
Premium Platform (Pentair IntelliCenter, Hayward OmniLogic)	Large pools, maximum features
Cloud-Based Solution (The Attendant)	Rental properties, cutting-edge tech

Controllers for pools less than 20,000 gallons are typically no problem. Bigger pools can require quite beefy controllers, though, for two or three pumps and/or heaters.

When choosing your controller, consider what matters most to you:

• For customization enthusiasts: Hayward OmniLogic’s 25 backyard themes or OmniHub’s programmable favorites let you create unique ambiance settings
• For latest technology: Pentair IntelliCenter with the new Pentair Pool app offers the most modern interface and remote monitoring
• For rental properties: The Attendant’s built-in Airbnb & Guest mode provides specialized features for short-term rentals
• For device compatibility: Pentair EasyTouch works seamlessly across all major platforms and operating systems
• For convenience: Jandy AquaLink’s water-resistant poolside remote means you don’t always need your phone
• For vendor flexibility: The Attendant’s vendor-agnostic approach works with any equipment brand
• For smart home integration: Look for controllers with native Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit support to seamlessly integrate with your existing Silicon Hills smart home setup

Ensure that your selected controller will talk to the smart devices you intend to use. Controllers often come with support for specific brands. Systems like The Attendant offer vendor-agnostic control, while traditional controllers may require matching brand equipment for full functionality.

Now we can install actual smart devices that will do the work of automating our pool processes. We will start with the most crucial upgrades first.

Installation of pumps and heaters is generally a professional-only job. A licensed pool technician will hook these up to your electrical system safely and program the base settings for you. Don’t forget to apply for your Austin Energy rebate if you’re installing an ENERGY STAR® certified variable speed pump!

Chemical sensors float in the pool or attach to the wall. They test water chemistry every few minutes. If levels become imbalanced, they will send notifications to your phone.

LED pool lights usually just screw into your existing light fixtures. We can get colored lights that allow us to set different moods for pool parties or calm nights.

Robotic pool cleaners are programmable and run themselves, but can be connected to your smart home system. We can set them to clean while we are away at work or sleeping. During Cedar Fever season, you can increase cleaning frequency with just a few taps on your phone.

The last step is linking everything up through your home Wi-Fi and your smartphone app. This will create one integrated pool system from all the separate devices.

Each brand of pool controller has its own mobile app. The Pentair brand offers Pool by Pentair, Hayward has the OmniLogic and OmniHub app, Jandy has iAquaLink, and The Attendant has it’s own mobile app. Download your pool controller’s app available on iOS or Android, create your account, and follow the in-app instructions to connect your new pool controller to your home Wi-Fi network.

Once your controller discovers each new device, the app will prompt you to give the device a unique name. Be descriptive with names so you you know which device is which. “Pool Pump” and “Spa Heater” are better choices than Device#1 and Device#2.

Create daily schedules for pumps, heaters, chillers, and cleaners to run. Most pools need their pumps running for 8-12 hours every day. Set heaters to come on before we swim and turn off when we’re done. Program your chiller to activate when water temperature exceeds 88°F during Austin’s scorching summer months.

Leave your home and try to control your pool remotely. This will verify that everything is correctly connected. Cloud-based systems like The Attendant and systems like Jandy AquaLink excel here with true 24/7 control from anywhere.

Set up alerts for low water levels, chemical imbalances, or equipment malfunctions. Enable freeze protection alerts so you’re notified immediately if temperatures drop to dangerous levels. Decide how often you want updates without being spammed by too many notifications.

Smart pool technology has the most potential when applied to our daily operation, cost control, and maintenance scheduling. Knowing what to do with automation features could decrease our workload by as much as 80% and reduce energy expenses drastically.

We can also simplify our pool routine by pre-scheduling most functions.Smart pool We can also simplify our pool routine by pre-scheduling most functions. Smart pool automation systems allow us to pre-program filtration, cleaning, and chemical dosing to off-peak hours.

Our simplified morning routine: 

• Adjust temperature 2 hours before we swim , or pre-cool the pool if it’s an August scorcher
• Autoskim and debris removal 
• Water testing sent to our phone as notifications

The key is pre-scheduling everything to minimize manual control. Smart pool heaters and chillers perform best when maintaining steady temperatures within a 2-degree range, preventing energy waste from constant cycling.With advanced systems like Hayward OmniLogic, OmniHub’s 25 themes, or The Attendant’s customizable scenes, you can pre-program pool lighting and water features into custom themes activated with one button push for evening pool parties..

Variable speed pumps with smart controls: Save up to 90% on energy usage compared to single-speed pumps. We should operate filtration during low-demand, off-peak electricity hours for maximum savings. In Austin, this typically means running your pump overnight when Austin Energy rates are lowest.

Cost-Saving Tips: 

• Schedule for off-peak hours (10 PM – 6 AM) — Austin Energy’s cheapest rate window
• Optimize temperature (Lower by 2°F when not in use)
• Efficient filtration (6-8 hours per day instead of 24/7)

Smart heating and cooling systems can be set to automatically adjust temperatures based on weather conditions and usage patterns. This helps avoid wasting energy on heating an empty pool or overcooling the water on hot summer days.Chemical automation: Helps avoid overuse of costly pool chemicals. Precise dosing based on real-time water testing can reduce chemical expenses by 30-40% annually.

Automated pool water testing can prevent damage to costly equipment. This is because smart pool sensors can detect pH and chlorine levels that are out of balance and can corrode or damage pumps, heaters, filters and more. Sensors should be calibrated once per month and replaced as recommended by manufacturer.

Scheduled maintenance tasks: 

• Skimmer baskets should be cleaned, and chemical levels should be checked weekly.
• pH sensors and chlorine sensors should be calibrated monthly.
• Pump seals and automation control panels should be inspected quarterly.
• A professional diagnostic should be conducted annually. 

The expected life of pumps is 2 to 3 years longer with automation in place. System alerts should be monitored in a timely manner. This is to prevent small problems from turning into major repairs. Most smart automation systems will send warning notifications before equipment fails.

Consider scheduling pool cleaning services for tasks beyond basic automation monitoring.

If you have an active lifestyle and you are in the market for a new pool, a smart pool is worth considering, but consider how much you currently spend on your pool before investing. The initial cost can be offset over time by savings on chemicals and energy plus the $300 Austin Energy rebate immediately reduces your upfront investment. You should also be comfortable with using applications on a smartphone or similar mobile device and the idea of automating certain functions on your pool. Finally, if the consistency of your pool’s water quality is more important to you than the ability to manually control the pool on a moment’s notice, then a smart pool might be for you.

While you don’t necessarily have to have a smart pool from the start when building a pool, most pools can be easily made smart. The technology is also improving year over year. Smart pools can offer improved energy efficiency as well as reduce maintenance time. This can make a smart pool a great investment for a family that swims often and wants to save time.

For Austin homeowners specifically, smart pool technology addresses our unique challenges: brutal summer heat, freeze protection needs, Cedar Fever pollen, water conservation requirements, and high energy costs. The combination of Austin Energy rebates, significant energy savings, and enhanced freeze protection makes smart pool automation an especially compelling investment in Central Texas.

Ready to explore smart pool options or upgrade your existing system? Contact Aqua Clear Pool Care today to discover how automation can transform your pool experience and give you more time to enjoy the water rather than maintaining it. We’ll help you navigate Austin Energy rebates, choose the right system for Central Texas conditions, and ensure your pool is ready for whatever weather Austin throws at it.