Understanding Jandy automation options - iQPUMP vs Aqualink

[newpoolj]

I'm starting to bid out a pool build, and the builder who uses Jandy offered an iAqualink setup as a $1500 upgrade to their standard controller. In trying to figure out if that's worth it, I noticed there appear to be similar but different automation options that Jandy supports - iQPUMP and Aqualink. What is the difference, if they both can be controlled by the same iAqualink app? Is one cheaper, if I wanted to DIY install? Is any of this worth it?

Thanks!

 

[guinness]

iQPUMP is just for Jandy variable speed pumps. You'll have to provide us more details - will your pool have an attached spa, SWG, heater, water features, lights? What are you looking to get out of automation? Just scheduling, remote access?

 

[newpoolj]

Thanks for the response. I'll have no spa, one light, no other features. SWG and heater are still up in the air. For the most part I just want to make scheduling easier for myself since using a keybad looks like a hassle (memories of mucking with sprinkler controllers).

 

[guinness]

So you have basic needs in terms of automation, how serious are you looking at SWG? Is it a cost issue or other reason? Typically bundled systems are cheaper than buying them separately. What type of heater are you contemplating? If solar that is important since you will need an actuator to be controlled by automation.

Pool Heaters Explained

What good is clear water if the water temperature is to cold to enjoy it? We've answered some questions and provided simple tips to understand pool heaters.

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[newpoolj]

So you have basic needs in terms of automation, how serious are you looking at SWG? Is it a cost issue or other reason? Typically bundled systems are cheaper than buying them separately. What type of heater are you contemplating? If solar that is important since you will need an actuator to be controlled by automation.

Pool Heaters Explained

What good is clear water if the water temperature is to cold to enjoy it? We've answered some questions and provided simple tips to understand pool heaters.

www.troublefreepool.com

We're interested in SWG. The builder we are most interested in won't do salt though, so we either stick with chlorine, use another builder, or will have to switch to salt later. I'm not sure how much trouble that is (but that's a separate discussion). For heating, I'm super interested in the Hotspot FPH. We run our AC a lot here in the summer in California and already pay a high price to do so, so a unit like that makes perfect sense. From what I can tell that system has a pretty simple thermostat that can be changed to a variety of options.

 

[guinness]

What reason does PB give for not doing salt, is it warranty related? Detailed discussion on Hotspot FPH below, but it seems complicated wrt automation.

Hotspot FPH AC heat reclamation pool heater - a review!

I have been looking at this product for the better part of two years and I'm very happy to say we have finally got one installed! I am very happy with this product and am equally happy to supply one of the first reviews of it. I know one of my own biggest uncertainties was the dearth of reviews...

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[newpoolj]

What reason does PB give for not doing salt, is it warranty related? Detailed discussion on Hotspot FPH below, but it seems complicated wrt automation.

Hotspot FPH AC heat reclamation pool heater - a review!

I have been looking at this product for the better part of two years and I'm very happy to say we have finally got one installed! I am very happy with this product and am equally happy to supply one of the first reviews of it. I know one of my own biggest uncertainties was the dearth of reviews...

www.troublefreepool.com

Yep, the PB mentioned salt on the decking mostly. I wouldn't be too concerned, but not much I can do. I did read that hotspot FPH discussion which had some interesting ideas for automating the hotspot with a pump.

 

[PoolGate]

Aqualink is worth the upgrade for sure just make sure it's the full web interface and an RS system and not PDA based. But, if the builder refuses to do salt, I'd show them the door. A lack of understanding about salt pools would make me wonder about his knowledge about everything else.

 

[Tom Jensen]

Intelliconnect might be the simplest if all you have is a pump and a light.