IntelliCenter vs. IntelliFlo Automation

russ0486

Member
Mar 4, 2024
8
Houston, TX
I have a very basic pool with no spa. My current setup is:
  • IntelliFlo3 variable speed pump w/ the I/O (relay) board and touchscreen
  • booster pump connected to the "high current" relay of the IntelliFlo3 board
  • IntelliChlor SWG connected to the "low current" relay of the IntelliFlo3 board

Using the built-in simple automation of the IntelliFlo3, I am able to setup and run routine schedules, including a schedule for skimming only (main pump on), skimming & chlorinating (main pump on, SWG on), skimming & polaris cleaning (main pump on, booster pump on, SWG on). The IntelliFlo3's touchscreen is easy to use and provides enough data for my use. It also has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth so I can use the app instead of the touchscreen. In short, I feel like it does what I need it to do since my setup is very simple. However, is there anything I'm missing?

I have a simple on/off pool light right now, on a manual switch. Down the road, we will resurface the pool and will likely replace/upgrade the light at that time. For now, the manual approach is fine with me.

When I poured the equipment pad and ran electrical, I included enough space and electrical capacity to add a heat pump and/or a natural gas heater later. For the time being, I don't have plans to add either. I might add it a couple years down the road or 20 years down the road or never. I understand that I wouldn't be able to incorporate automation with a heater with my current setup, but seeing how I am unsure if I will ever add it, I don't think I need to plan on that until such a time that I decide to add a heater.

Is there anything I would gain by going to a more elaborate automation system - for an example, the IntelliCenter? I see they make a "Lite" version now intended for smaller/simpler setups. I also see the IntelliConnect could be an option.

Putting money aside, what would I gain (if anything) if I used the IntelliCenter, IntelliCenter Lite, or IntelliConnect instead of just using the built-in automation of the IntelliFlo3?
 
Is there anything I would gain by going to a more elaborate automation system - for an example, the IntelliCenter? I see they make a "Lite" version now intended for smaller/simpler setups. I also see the IntelliConnect could be an option.

Putting money aside, what would I gain (if anything) if I used the IntelliCenter, IntelliCenter Lite, or IntelliConnect instead of just using the built-in automation of the IntelliFlo3?
Nope.

Don't have envy of other folks toys.
 
I have a very basic pool with no spa. My current setup is:
  • IntelliFlo3 variable speed pump w/ the I/O (relay) board and touchscreen
  • booster pump connected to the "high current" relay of the IntelliFlo3 board
  • IntelliChlor SWG connected to the "low current" relay of the IntelliFlo3 board

Using the built-in simple automation of the IntelliFlo3, I am able to setup and run routine schedules, including a schedule for skimming only (main pump on), skimming & chlorinating (main pump on, SWG on), skimming & polaris cleaning (main pump on, booster pump on, SWG on). The IntelliFlo3's touchscreen is easy to use and provides enough data for my use. It also has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth so I can use the app instead of the touchscreen. In short, I feel like it does what I need it to do since my setup is very simple. However, is there anything I'm missing?

I have a simple on/off pool light right now, on a manual switch. Down the road, we will resurface the pool and will likely replace/upgrade the light at that time. For now, the manual approach is fine with me.

When I poured the equipment pad and ran electrical, I included enough space and electrical capacity to add a heat pump and/or a natural gas heater later. For the time being, I don't have plans to add either. I might add it a couple years down the road or 20 years down the road or never. I understand that I wouldn't be able to incorporate automation with a heater with my current setup, but seeing how I am unsure if I will ever add it, I don't think I need to plan on that until such a time that I decide to add a heater.

Is there anything I would gain by going to a more elaborate automation system - for an example, the IntelliCenter? I see they make a "Lite" version now intended for smaller/simpler setups. I also see the IntelliConnect could be an option.

Putting money aside, what would I gain (if anything) if I used the IntelliCenter, IntelliCenter Lite, or IntelliConnect instead of just using the built-in automation of the IntelliFlo3?
The "fun" of those expensive on/off switches (which is all automation boils down to) wears off quickly if there is no real need. A simple pool like yours has no "need" for it. If you want remote control of the light, there are many Wi-Fi switches available very inexpensively to do the job.
I've talked many customers out of buying them from me if there is no "need." Use the money for something you will enjoy more.