Hi guys,
I'm currently remodeling my pool and have a pretty lengthy thread you can find here: http://www.troublefreepool.com/threads/77859-Need-help-bringing-an-old-pool-back-to-life. I decided to start a new thread because I'm at a crossroad with my pool equipment and I need to decide by this time next week.
My goals are to have a very low maintenance system and low electric costs (even though my rates are $0.11 already so I can't complain). My pool is 15x25 IG pool with two individual returns, one skimmer and one vacuum line (suction side). No spa, no in-floor cleaning system, no booster pump, etc. The only extra element I plan to add is a small waterfall/waterfeature.
I only recently entertained the idea of an automation system. I initially wanted just a simple timer and that's it but when I noticed the upgrade for the EasyTouch panel (with IC40 salt cell and transformer included) was just a $300 upgrade it seemed like a no brainer. Of course, after researching it's not as cheap as it appears. To really automate you need valve actuators, ScreenLogic 2, etc. which can add up but is really nice to have.
If I stick the with EasyTouch I would likely get the Intelliflo VS 3HP pump. If I don't I think I would go for the Superflo VS or Max-Flo VS on a timer.
Do you guys think it's worth the investment to automate? Is it better to just automate the chemicals instead of the valves? Do the actuators fail often? Would love to hear the experience others have and advice on what you would do if you were me.
Here's what I would like to control/automate from the EasyTouch 4 panel and iPhone if I go that route:
- Pump On/Off (I'm assuming SWCG would be on/off as well)
- Pump RPMs
- Pool lights
- Valve for waterfeature (3-port Jandy)
- Valve for suction-side vacuum (3-port Jandy)
- Valve for bypass/waste (3-port Jandy, not critical to automate)
I'm currently remodeling my pool and have a pretty lengthy thread you can find here: http://www.troublefreepool.com/threads/77859-Need-help-bringing-an-old-pool-back-to-life. I decided to start a new thread because I'm at a crossroad with my pool equipment and I need to decide by this time next week.
My goals are to have a very low maintenance system and low electric costs (even though my rates are $0.11 already so I can't complain). My pool is 15x25 IG pool with two individual returns, one skimmer and one vacuum line (suction side). No spa, no in-floor cleaning system, no booster pump, etc. The only extra element I plan to add is a small waterfall/waterfeature.
I only recently entertained the idea of an automation system. I initially wanted just a simple timer and that's it but when I noticed the upgrade for the EasyTouch panel (with IC40 salt cell and transformer included) was just a $300 upgrade it seemed like a no brainer. Of course, after researching it's not as cheap as it appears. To really automate you need valve actuators, ScreenLogic 2, etc. which can add up but is really nice to have.
If I stick the with EasyTouch I would likely get the Intelliflo VS 3HP pump. If I don't I think I would go for the Superflo VS or Max-Flo VS on a timer.
Do you guys think it's worth the investment to automate? Is it better to just automate the chemicals instead of the valves? Do the actuators fail often? Would love to hear the experience others have and advice on what you would do if you were me.
Here's what I would like to control/automate from the EasyTouch 4 panel and iPhone if I go that route:
- Pump On/Off (I'm assuming SWCG would be on/off as well)
- Pump RPMs
- Pool lights
- Valve for waterfeature (3-port Jandy)
- Valve for suction-side vacuum (3-port Jandy)
- Valve for bypass/waste (3-port Jandy, not critical to automate)