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?
