Got a quote for new controller, heater, automation, etc...sticker shock.

[Mikey311]

I figured this would be expensive, but wow. Would I be stupid to pay these prices or is this just my "welcome" to pool ownership?

Quick backstory is my pool controller panel is bad, the heater has issues, etc... so I got a quote for replacement of bad parts but also to get the system up to date.

The Pentair system does include a new salt cell and I think 2 new automated jandy valves. But at first glance, the plumbing parts is a rip off, all equipment is marked up about 20%.. so yea, just a little sticker shock.

Is this pretty standard in the pool industry? Appreciate any input.

(please let me know if there is a better place to post this topic)

 

[JoyfulNoise]

Not totally off base. Yeah, they’re adding mark ups to the equipment, labor is a lot and PVC costs are ridiculous….

BUT

Right now the entire industry is SLAMMED with work, equipment is in short supply and expensive, and skilled labor is hard to come by. That quote reflects some of the reality that doing ANY kind of renovation projects right now, even simple equipment swaps, is going to demand a premium. The world of the trades right now is INSANE.

You’ll save yourself money if you can simply do it yourself.

 

[Mikey311]

Not totally off base. Yeah, they’re adding mark ups to the equipment, labor is a lot and PVC costs are ridiculous….

BUT

Right now the entire industry is SLAMMED with work, equipment is in short supply and expensive, and skilled labor is hard to come by. That quote reflects some of the reality that doing ANY kind of renovation projects right now, even simple equipment swaps, is going to demand a premium. The world of the trades right now is INSANE.

You’ll save yourself money if you can simply do it yourself.

I am sure I can do any of the work, but have always heard you need professional installation to avoid voiding the warranty.

Then there is the matter of my time which is at a premium as well in this new house requiring lots of work, but I digress.

 

[JoyfulNoise]

If the Pentair part numbers have “EC” in the beginning (stands for e-commerce), then Pentair typically allows for self-installation and, depending on the item, will give you a 1-2 year warranty. Equipment bundles with extended (3 year) warranties are only available through builders/professionals.

I’d suggest getting other quotes but I doubt you’re going to see any drastic price differences. It’s just not a good time for home improvement projects unless you’re willing to pay the hefty premiums. Even the , plenty of scams and delays out there too.