Understanding the Internet of Things in the Backyard

Homeowners can now use an app, to control lights, waterfalls, and equipment through a simplified user interface on a smartphone/tablet.

This is not another Internet article on some new crazy technology or app. The Internet of things (IoT), also known as the network of things or the Internet of everything, is not the next big gadget, it is already here. Chances are many are already using it without even knowing so. This technology affects daily life on every level (i.e. personal, professional, health, … Read More

Water Care Basics to Prevent Biofilm Formation

The organic matter introduced into the water by two bathers during a 20-minute soak can eliminate almost all traces of available sanitizer.

After many years working in the water chemistry field, this author still gets the same question: What is the most important aspect of hot tub water care? In speaking to hot tub customers, service technicians, water care sales teams, retailers, and store owners from all over the world, the answer remains the same: The best way to enjoy the hot … Read More

Using Audio and Visual Equipment to Investigate Pool Water Loss Issues

Pool leak detection can be a matter of inspecting each line internally via a camera—from the pool to the pump—looking for any obvious problems.

Sometimes, homeowners suspect (or even know) their pool is leaking prior to closing it for the season, but in many cases, they wait until spring to confirm it. Some pool owners think the leak will fix itself, and sometimes it does—temporarily. This rarely happens though. In fact, it usually becomes worse before they decide to take action, whether doing something … Read More

A Look into the Effectiveness of Below-Ground Solar Heating Systems

Below-ground solar collectors can pull the heat energy absorbed by hardscape (e.g. stone, bricks, pavers, wood) surfaces and use it to heat pool water.

Everyone knows pool heating can be costly for homeowners—especially if the pool is not being covered. As a result, many are making the move towards sustainable technologies such as solar energy. For most, when thinking of solar energy an image of large solar panels may come to mind. Very few think of invisible solar heating because it is a relatively … Read More

Slatted Pool Covers Eliminate the Confines of Symmetrical Designs

Manufacturing and market demand for slatted covers in North America increased in the early 2000s, as they were recognized as a viable option for the pool and spa/hot tub industry.

While still considered a niche component of the pool, automatic covers are gaining popularity thanks to their ability to reduce the operating costs of a pool and/or spa with the rising costs of energy, and water consumption in arid climates. In fact, for many builders, the automatic cover is as an important piece of equipment as the pump and filter, … Read More

Creating an Ownership Culture

Before employees bought Counsilman-Hunsaker (this author’s former business) in 2012, the firm was in the same difficult place many long-time pool and hot tub company owners find themselves today when it comes to business succession.

Before employees bought Counsilman-Hunsaker (this author’s former business), the firm was in the same difficult place many long-time pool and hot tub business owners find themselves today. Like Counsilman-Hunsaker, a large number of companies in this industry were founded in the ’60s and ’70s by individuals with strong personalities, who spent many years working in the business—not on the business. … Read More

Save Energy and Extend Equipment Life with Variable-Frequency Drives

A key feature of variable-frequency drives (VFDs) is their ability to regulate the power going to the pump, which helps to extend the equipment life.

Over the past few years, pool professionals have learned that going ‘green’ can significantly lower a pool’s operating costs. Pumps and filters are among the items most scrutinized due to the vast amount of energy they consume. To reduce costs associated with water circulation and filtration it is important to understand why pumps and filters consume large amounts of energy … Read More

Today’s High-Tech Controls Now Go Beyond the Pool

Pool automation systems have evolved in the past three years to go beyond the pool, giving homeowner’s the power to orchestrate their entire backyard.

The pool industry is entering an era of unprecedented innovation and evolution. With the advancement in microprocessors, data memory, touch screens, and other electronic components, automation is not only becoming more mainstream and more affordable, but equipment manufacturers are also starting to keep up with the innovation curve. That said, pool automation systems have evolved in the past three years … Read More