New pool build - Next question, need help on Hayward automation options

[mnm4ever]

Hi everyone,
I have another thread going in the construction section on design questions, thanks for all the feedback so far on that. I also need to make a decision on automation options, so I thought I should start another thread. This one should be much easier!

My PB uses and recommends Hayward, and I am fine with that, I don't have any prior experience with anything else. He is offering us two options for automation:

1. Hayward AquaPlus with AquaPod remote OR phone app - $1950 ($500 more if we want both remote and phone)
2. Hayward OmniLogic with standard smartphone app but no remote - $2950 ($400 more if we want the remote too)

So basically $1000 to upgrade to OmniLogic, and minor differences for the remote control options.

I have heard the OmniLogic is newer tech, and easier to add features too, also easier to repair as parts can be replaced as modules. But I also have heard they are tricky to program and sometimes problematic (like most smart home stuff!). The AquaPlus is supposed to be easier to program, but not as customizable. We do use smart home features, but it isn't a big deal either way.

My first question is, the upgrade to OmniLogic seems expensive. I did some googling and the price between the two units is basically the same, or within a cpl hundred dollars either way, around $1200-1500. And for $1950 he includes a remote, which from what I can tell is optional with the AquaPlus, so that would make the AquaPlus package more expensive than the OmniLogic. Unless I am missing something? Is there other components that need to be included like modules or control motors that cost more with Omni vs Aqua?

Second question... any preferences or concerns with AquaPlus vs OmniLogic?

Thanks in advance!

Michael

 

[flg8rfan]

I'm following, regretting not adding automation to my pool and everything is Hayward ;-)

 

[mnm4ever]

I was debating getting it, but after seeing all that it did and remembering how I would have to be the one adjusting everything anytime my wife wanted to use the pool, it seemed like a must-have. And like I said above, the prices seem reasonable compared to buying the equipment later on a adding it myself. Have you done any research into what it takes to add it?

 

[ajw22]

the prices seem reasonable compared to buying the equipment later on a adding it myself. Have you done any research into what it takes to add it?

I prefer Pentair stuff over Hayward, but am not going to go into that. So can’t help you on the difference between the two models.

If you mean for your PB to install everything manual and then add automation later? That will require replacing your CB panel and redoing all your wiring. Automation gives you a central electrical panel from which it controls all your equipment.

Figure out what you want and work it our now. Do the add it as part of the install.

 

[Jimrahbe]

Michael,

Here is a link to a brochure that has a pretty good comparison of the different Hayward automation systems..

https://hayward-pool-assets.com/ass....pdf.pagespeed.ce.Lc9Pbz4ocL.pdf?fromCDN=true

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[mnm4ever]

No... I am going to get automation for sure. The debate is between the "cheaper" AquaPlus panel or the upgraded OmniLogic panel. I wanted opinions on either of these, to see which is the better choice.

Additionally I would like to know if its fair or reasonable for the PB to charge $1000 extra for OmniLogic when as far as I can tell, the price is basically the same for the base unit, and technically it should actually be cheaper if I got the OmniLogic and did not get the wireless waterproof remote, just using the mobile/web app to manage it. I thought perhaps there was additional costs to the OmniLogic implementation that I wasnt aware of that accounts for the price difference.

 

[mnm4ever]

So had a meeting with the PB today and asked for clarification on the automation options. I didn't get much... just that this is supposedly some special package that the company negotiated with Hayward to include the AquaPlus combined with the AquaPod remote and an AquaRite T15 salt cell for $1950 complete. And the OmniLogic is $900 more (not $1000, sorry). He couldn't or wouldn't really explain why it costs more when the price of the smart box is about the same, but he did say that the OmniLogic requires additional components to give it the full functionality, it isnt JUST the box that is different. Interestingly, he also said that the OmniLogic has a smaller salt cell... it comes with the AquaRite T9. And to upgrade that to the T15 is another $200. I have heard from lurking here that bigger is better when it comes to salt cells, so to me thats a must have.

So now my decision is AquaPod with either the AquaPod remote or AquaConnect for $1950, or the OmniLogic for $3050.

Not many responses to this one... I could really use some guidance here. Unlike my other post on pool design, I actually get to make this decision myself!!

Thanks,
Michael

 

[mknauss]

What about asking a different supplier your questions. Try Inyopools.
@InyoRob

 

[santacruzpool]

I had an option with my Jandy automation, at the time we built, of having a dedicated remote - I didn't choose that - and I don't regret it at all. If I had gone for Hayward equipment I would have gone for smartphone control only.

I think having smartphone/tablet control is perfect and I don't need anything additional. Now the "programming" of the Jandy stuff has pretty poor implementation in my opinion, but that is a whole different issue. I hear it is a industry wide issue - the pool companies aren't up to speed on the tech side of things. At least being able to use my phone I don't have to struggle with another device and the prehistoric pool automation programming code! It makes it somewhat bearable

 

[mnm4ever]

@santacruzpool - Thanks, I was leaning more towards the smartphone integration either way. It is an add-on feature to the AquaPlus, but standard with the OmniLogic. For the prices I was quoting above, it is included with either system. My wife is leaning more towards the remote, but I am not sure why. She keeps talking about how its waterproof and she can take it in the spa, and she wont need her phone. But she always has her phone with her anyway, and I dont think shes going to really need the controls while shes actually in the spa anyway. But I have no idea, I have never had automation before. Never had a spa either.

Still trying to figure out if the OmniLogic is "better" than the AquaPlus... specifically $1100 better...

 

[MooneyFWD]

We just finished our pool in October and had the Prologic with aquapod installed. When I discussed upgrading to the Omnilogic, it was sort of dismissed by my builder saying it was "overkill" for my project. I wish I would have persisted. I have since hooked up the Aquaconnect for smartphone control. The Aquapod is fine, but I'd rather have control with my phone, hence the add on. I'd rather have it all-in-on with the Omni, but it was a smaller upgrade from the Prologic to the Omnilogic ($500-600 if I remember correctly), which is close to the retail price of the Aquaconnect add-on for smartphone control.

The user interface of the Omnilogic looks MUCH nicer, but in the end I'm happy with the control I have now. I would say its worth it to upgrade from the AquaPlus for sure if you can make the budget work.

 

[mnm4ever]

Thanks @MooneyFWD

Still not sure what I am going to do... and I have to decide in a week or two. My gut says go with the Omni, but I worry that the "new" tech isn't worth it. Sometimes old and reliable is better. I dont know.

 

[beez74]

Not sure on the specifics but I have Aqua connect and its horrible!...the app doesn't respond and takes 2 or 3 times for the pool to respond to the commands which leaves you thinking pumps are off when they are still on and accessories or turned on when they never did unless you are standing there looking at the pool to make sure.....from what I can tell the Omni stuff is a waaaay better option, the app that goes with it is 10 times better If I knew before hand I the would of got it. just my $.2

 

[CPS Reno]

We are Hayward builders and I'd like to help, as it's a great opportunity to learn something..........hopefully on both ends. Based on the limited equipment knowledge, maybe the Omni VS system is right for you. This system is GREAT, as you get the control and interface (phone) of the Omni Logic, but without the cost of the "full on" Omni Logic. It will only control limited pumps, valves, sensors, lights, etc.

Omni VS

Randy

 

[HeyEng]

I would also be concerned about the app becoming outdated, or your phone not being compatible a few years down the road. Also, how does the phone communicate with the system? If via Bluetooth, I would be concerned about how far your phone is from the system...there are distinct limitations with Bluetooth systems.

 

[mnm4ever]

Just started my pool build thread...
New pool build in Tampa Bay Area, Florida

 

[mnm4ever]

Thanks everyone for your advice and help. In the end we decided to go with the "base" package the builder was pushing. I may regret it but once again my wife wins...