Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the energy saving laws for pool pumps in Florida?
Florida adopted new energy efficiency standards that went into effect in July 2021, aligning with federal Department of Energy regulations. Here’s what you need to know:
For new installations and replacements, single-speed pool pumps are essentially banned. You must install variable-speed pumps (VSP) or other energy-efficient alternatives that meet the weighted energy factor (WEF) requirements. Variable-speed pumps use 65-75% less energy than old single-speed pumps by allowing you to run at lower speeds for routine circulation and only ramp up to high speed when needed for vacuuming or running features.
For existing pools, you’re not required to replace a functioning single-speed pump immediately. However, when it fails or you’re doing major pool renovations, you’ll need to upgrade to comply with current code.
The good news? Variable-speed pumps typically pay for themselves in energy savings within 2-3 years, and many utility companies offer rebates for upgrading. In South Florida’s climate where pools run year-round, the savings are substantial—often $50-100+ per month on your electric bill.
Pro tip: When we install variable-speed pumps, we program them to optimize energy use while maintaining perfect water quality. Most homeowners are shocked at how much quieter and more efficient they are.
Can you explain the difference between a pool heater and a pool heat pump? Which one can you get a pool chiller with?
Great question—this confuses a lot of people because both heat your pool, but they work completely differently.
Gas Pool Heaters use natural gas or propane to generate heat through combustion. Think of it like a giant water heater for your pool. They heat water very quickly (can raise temperature 1-2 degrees per hour) and work efficiently regardless of air temperature. The downside? They’re expensive to operate because you’re burning fuel. Gas heaters are ideal if you use your pool occasionally and want it heated fast, or if you heat a spa that needs to get hot quickly.
Heat Pumps work like a reverse air conditioner—they extract heat from the air and transfer it to your pool water. They’re incredibly efficient (typically 4-6 times more efficient than gas heaters) but slower to heat the pool and they need warm air temperature to work well (generally 50°F or above). In South Florida, heat pumps are excellent because we rarely get below 50°F, and they cost a fraction of what gas heaters cost to operate. They’re perfect for maintaining consistent pool temperature throughout the swim season.
The Chiller Component: Here’s where it gets interesting—you can ONLY get a chiller function with a heat pump, not a gas heater. Modern heat pumps can run in reverse to actually cool your pool water during our brutal summer months. In South Florida, this is a game-changer. When pool temperatures hit 88-92°F in July and August, a heat pump with chiller capability can bring it down to a refreshing 82-84°F.
Our recommendation for South Florida: A variable-speed heat pump with cooling capability gives you year-round comfort—extending your swim season in both directions. We install these regularly and homeowners love being able to keep their pool at the perfect temperature regardless of the season.
How do you convert your pool from chlorine to salt water?
Converting to salt water is surprisingly straightforward—it’s not like you’re rebuilding the pool. Here’s exactly what’s involved:
Step 1: Assessment We evaluate your existing equipment and pool structure. Most pools can convert easily, but we check for any metal components that might corrode faster with salt water (handrails, light fixtures, heaters, etc.). If needed, we’ll recommend sacrificial anodes or protective measures.
Step 2: Salt System Selection We size the salt chlorinator based on your pool volume. Too small and it won’t keep up with chlorine demand; too large and you’re wasting money. We typically install systems from trusted brands like Pentair, Hayward, or Jandy.
Step 3: Installation The salt cell (chlorine generator) is plumbed into your return line after the filter and heater. We mount the control unit nearby and wire it according to code. The installation usually takes half a day.
Step 4: Initial Salt Addition Once installed, we add pool-grade salt to reach the optimal level (typically 3,000-3,500 ppm). For a 20,000-gallon pool, that’s about 8-10 bags of salt. The salt dissolves in 24 hours with circulation.
Step 5: Programming & Testing We program the system based on your pool’s needs, run tests to verify chlorine production, and fine-tune the settings.
What stays the same: Your existing pump, filter, heater, and pool structure don’t change. You’re just adding a new chlorine generation method.
Cost considerations: The system itself runs $1,500-3,000 installed depending on pool size. You’ll save money long-term by not buying chlorine, though you’ll need to replace the salt cell every 3-5 years (typically $400-800).
Timeline: Most conversions are completed in one day, and you can swim within 24-48 hours.
I'm researching the iAqualink system for pool automation. Can you tell me what functions each model can handle?
iAqualink is Jandy’s smartphone-controlled automation platform, and it’s one of the systems we install frequently. The capabilities depend on which control system you pair it with:
iAqualink with AquaLink RS OneTouch This is the entry-level automation. You can control:
- One auxiliary device (typically pool/spa mode switching)
- Basic on/off functions
- Temperature control if you have a Jandy heater
- Limited to simpler setups
iAqualink with AquaLink RS PDA (4, 6, 8, or 16 button) This is the mid-range option. You get:
- Control of 4, 6, 8, or 16 pool functions (depending on model)
- Pump speed control (for variable-speed pumps)
- Heater/heat pump control and scheduling
- Lighting control (on/off, and some color control depending on lights)
- Water features (waterfalls, fountains, jets)
- Custom scheduling and automation programs
- Real-time equipment status monitoring
iAqualink with AquaLink TouchLink Top-tier option with touchscreen control:
- Everything the PDA models do, plus…
- Full-color changing LED light control
- More sophisticated programming options
- Easier interface for complex systems
- Controls up to 16 auxiliary functions
The iAqualink App Features (works with all systems):
- Remote control from anywhere with cell service
- Monitor and adjust temperature
- Turn equipment on/off
- Set schedules and timers
- Receive alerts (low temperature, equipment issues, etc.)
- Create one-touch “scenes” (like “Spa Mode” that heats water, switches valves, turns on jets and lights)
Our take: For most residential pools in our area, the AquaLink RS PDA (6 or 8 button) with iAqualink gives you the best value. You can control all your major functions without overpaying for features you won’t use. We typically set up scenes like “Morning Swim” (lights off, pump on medium), “Evening Entertainment” (colored lights, waterfall, higher pump speed), and “Spa Mode” (switches valves, cranks heat, turns on jets).
Cost range: Expect $1,500-3,500 depending on the system complexity and how many functions you’re automating. The convenience and energy savings (from better scheduling) typically justify the investment within a couple years.
I have old halogen pool lights and I'm considering repairing vs. replacing them with LED lights. Can you explain the benefits of LED?
This is one of the most common upgrades we do, and honestly, LED is almost always the right answer. Here’s why:
Energy Savings Your old 300-500 watt halogen bulbs cost about $1.50-2.50 per hour to run. LED lights use 30-50 watts—that’s 80-90% less electricity. If you run your pool lights 4 hours per night, you’ll save $30-50 per month per light. LEDs pay for themselves in 2-3 years just in energy savings.
Lifespan Halogen bulbs last 2,000-4,000 hours (maybe 2-3 years with regular use). Quality LED lights last 30,000-50,000+ hours—that’s 10-15+ years. When you factor in the cost and hassle of draining your pool every few years to replace bulbs, LEDs are a no-brainer.
Brightness & Color Modern LEDs are significantly brighter than halogens while being more energy-efficient. Plus, you get color options—either fixed colors or full color-changing systems that can create any mood you want. Halogen gives you one color: yellowish-white.
Heat Halogens generate tremendous heat. LEDs stay cool, which is safer and doesn’t stress the fixture housing or gaskets.
Safety LEDs operate at much lower temperatures, reducing risk of burns or fixture failure. They’re also low-voltage (12V), making them inherently safer.
Smart Control LED systems integrate with pool automation (like iAqualink). You can control colors, brightness, and timing from your phone. Try doing that with halogens.
The Repair vs. Replace Decision Here’s the reality: if your halogen fixture is old enough to need repair, it’s probably not worth it. The fixture housing, lens, and gasket are likely degraded. You’ll spend $200-400 to repair each light, and you’re still stuck with inefficient, short-lived technology that might fail again soon.
For $400-800 per light (depending on features), we can install a modern LED system that will last 10+ years, save you money every month, look better, and give you capabilities you don’t have now.
Our recommendation: If you’re already draining the pool or opening up fixtures, make the switch to LED. It’s one of those upgrades you’ll wonder why you didn’t do sooner. Most homeowners are blown away by how much better their pool looks at night and how much their electric bill drops.
I would like to exercise in my pool. I've heard about resistance jets. Can you educate me on them and whether I can add them to an existing pool?
Resistance jets (also called swim jets or swim-in-place systems) are fantastic for exercise, and yes, they can absolutely be added to most existing pools. Here’s what you need to know:
How They Work Resistance jets create a powerful current of water that you swim against—essentially turning your pool into an endless lap pool. The current is adjustable, so you can set it for a gentle swim or a serious workout. They’re also great for aquatic therapy, water jogging, and playing with kids who love fighting the current.
Types of Systems
Built-in Jetted Systems (like Badu Jet or similar): These are high-performance units that mount in the pool wall, typically at the shallow end. They produce a wide, smooth current that’s ideal for serious swimming. Installation requires cutting into the pool wall, adding plumbing lines back to the equipment pad, and installing a dedicated pump (typically 3-5 HP). This is the most permanent and powerful option.
Deck-Mounted Systems (like SwimEx or Endless Pools Fastlane): These sit on your pool deck and hang over the edge, creating a current from above the waterline. They’re easier to install (no cutting into the pool structure), can be removed if needed, and still provide excellent resistance. They require electrical hookup but no major plumbing work.
Portable Resistance Systems: Lower-cost options that attach to the pool edge and create resistance through a smaller jet or propeller. These work for casual exercise but won’t give you the same experience as dedicated systems.
Installation Considerations
For your existing pool, we need to evaluate:
- Pool size and shape: Jets work best in pools at least 8 feet wide and 25+ feet long, though smaller pools can work depending on your goals
- Electrical capacity: Most systems need dedicated 220V circuits
- Equipment space: Built-in systems need room on your equipment pad for another pump
- Pool construction: Gunite/concrete pools are straightforward; vinyl liners or fiberglass pools have different installation requirements
Cost Range
- Deck-mounted systems: $5,000-8,000 installed
- Built-in jetted systems: $7,000-12,000+ depending on complexity
- Portable options: $1,000-3,000
Our Take For serious swimmers and regular exercise, the investment is worth it—especially in South Florida where outdoor exercise is a year-round option. We’ve installed dozens of these systems, and clients love them. If you’re just getting started or want to test the concept, a deck-mounted system gives you excellent performance with less commitment. If you’re all-in on pool fitness, a built-in jetted system is the gold standard.
Next step: We can visit your property, assess your pool, and show you exactly what’s possible. We’ll measure current capacity, equipment space, and discuss which system fits your goals and budget.
We'd really like to add fire features to our pool. Can you tell me what my options are for an existing pool?
Fire and water combinations create incredible visual impact, and they’re absolutely possible to add to existing pools. Here are your options:
1. Fire Bowls on Pool Deck The most versatile option. Fire bowls (or fire pots) sit on your pool deck—typically near the entry steps, on raised walls, or flanking the pool. They’re connected to a natural gas or propane line and controlled remotely or via automation. Available in various sizes and finishes (copper, stainless steel, stone-look), they range from subtle accent flames to dramatic focal points.
Cost: $800-2,500 per bowl plus gas line installation Installation: Requires gas line routing and connection (needs licensed gas contractor) Pros: Easiest to add; no structural pool changes; flexible placement Best for: Most existing pools, especially if you want multiple flame points
2. Fire Bowls on Raised Walls or Columns If you have existing raised walls, columns, or bond beams around your pool, fire bowls can be mounted on top. This elevates the flames for more dramatic effect, especially when they reflect off the water.
Cost: $1,000-3,000 per installation depending on structure Installation: Similar to deck-mounted, but may require structural reinforcement Pros: More dramatic; better visibility from seating areas Best for: Pools with existing architectural features
3. Sheer Descent Waterfalls with Fire These combine a sheet of water falling into the pool with flames burning on top of the water feature. The effect is stunning—flames appear to float on falling water. However, this requires more extensive work since you’re building a new water feature with integrated fire.
Cost: $4,000-10,000+ depending on size and complexity Installation: Major addition requiring plumbing, gas, structure, and electrical work Pros: Most dramatic visual impact; conversation piece Best for: Pools with adequate deck space and budget for a significant upgrade
4. Fire and Water Spillways Similar to sheer descents but wider and often integrated into raised spa or elevated walls. Water spills over while flames burn along the top edge.
Cost: $5,000-12,000+ Installation: Significant construction project Pros: Creates a luxury resort feel Best for: Larger budgets and extensive renovations
5. Tiki Torches and Gas Torches Lower-cost option using decorative torches around the pool deck. Can be permanent gas-line installations or portable options.
Cost: $200-800 per torch Installation: Minimal (portable) to moderate (gas-line installations) Pros: Budget-friendly; easy to add Best for: Adding ambiance without major construction
Key Considerations for Fire Features
- Fuel source: Natural gas is most convenient if you have gas service. Propane works but requires tank placement and refills.
- Automation: Fire features can integrate with pool automation systems for remote control and scheduling.
- Safety: All installations must meet Florida fire codes. We work with licensed gas contractors to ensure proper installation.
- Wind: South Florida breezes can affect flame appearance. Positioning and wind guards help.
- Maintenance: Fire features need occasional cleaning and burner inspection, but they’re generally low-maintenance.
Our Recommendation For most existing pools in our area, fire bowls on the deck or raised walls give you the best return on investment. They create dramatic effect without major construction, can be added relatively quickly, and integrate beautifully with your landscaping and pool lighting.
The process: We visit your property to assess placement options, gas line routing, and integration with your existing pool design. We coordinate with licensed gas contractors for installation and can tie fire features into your pool automation for one-touch control.
Pro tip: Fire features look even more impressive when paired with LED pool lighting. The combination of colored lights reflecting off water with flames above creates an unforgettable nighttime environment. We often install both simultaneously during pool renovations.
How often should I have my pool equipment serviced?
Most pool equipment should be professionally inspected at least once per year, ideally before your peak swimming season. However, we recommend different maintenance schedules depending on the component:
Variable-Speed Pumps: Annual inspection of motor, seals, and impeller. These are workhorses that run 8-12+ hours daily, so catching small issues early prevents expensive failures.
Filters: Depends on type. Sand filters should be inspected annually and media replaced every 5-7 years. Cartridge filters need quarterly cleaning and cartridge replacement every 2-3 years. DE filters need annual inspection and DE powder replacement.
Heaters and Heat Pumps: Annual service before heating season. This includes combustion analysis (gas heaters), refrigerant levels (heat pumps), heat exchanger inspection, and safety checks.
Salt Systems: Cell inspection every 3-6 months for calcium buildup and cleaning as needed. Cells typically last 3-5 years depending on water chemistry and usage.
Automation Systems: Annual checkup to verify all functions, update software if applicable, and test sensors and controls.
Pool Structure: Professional inspection every 3-5 years to catch issues like tile deterioration, plaster degradation, or structural cracks before they become major problems.
That said, many issues can be caught during regular pool maintenance visits. If you’re not comfortable monitoring equipment yourself, weekly or bi-weekly service contracts ensure everything stays in optimal condition.
Red flags that mean “call us now”: Unusual noises, reduced water flow, equipment that won’t turn on or won’t turn off, leaks, error codes, or dramatic changes in water chemistry despite proper chemical maintenance.
Do you service all brands of pool equipment, or only certain manufacturers?
We service all major pool equipment brands including Pentair, Hayward, Jandy, Polaris, Dolphin, Raypak, Rheem, AquaCal, and many others. With decades of combined experience in the South Florida pool industry, our technicians are trained on virtually every system you’ll find in residential pools.
That said, when we install new equipment, we typically recommend brands we trust based on reliability, parts availability, warranty support, and performance in Florida’s demanding climate. We’ve seen what holds up and what doesn’t after years in this market.
Why this matters to you: Some pool companies only install one brand because they have exclusive dealer agreements or franchise requirements. We’re independent, which means we can recommend what’s genuinely best for your situation—not what we’re contractually obligated to sell. If you already have equipment from a brand we don’t typically install, we’ll still service it professionally and honestly tell you whether repair makes sense or if replacement is the smarter move.
Can you help with pool permits and inspections for equipment replacement or renovations?
Absolutely. Major equipment installations (like heaters, pumps, electrical upgrades) and any structural renovations require permits in Broward and Palm Beach Counties. We handle the permitting process as part of our service.
Here’s how it works: We pull the necessary permits, schedule required inspections, and ensure all work meets current Florida building codes and pool safety standards. You don’t have to deal with the paperwork or coordinate with county inspectors—we manage that entire process.
Why proper permitting matters: Beyond the legal requirements, permitted work protects you. It ensures installations meet safety codes, provides documentation for insurance purposes, maintains your home’s value, and prevents issues during future home sales. Unpermitted work can come back to haunt you during real estate transactions or insurance claims.
Timeline impact: Permitting does add time to projects (typically 1-2 weeks depending on county), but it’s the right way to do things. We build permit timelines into project schedules so you know exactly what to expect.
What areas do you service?
Smart Pool Pros primarily serves Delray Beach and surrounding communities throughout Broward and Palm Beach Counties. This includes Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach, Parkland, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, and other nearby areas.
We focus on this geographic area because it allows us to provide responsive service and maintain the personal relationships that are important to us. If you’re outside our primary service area, give us a call anyway—we may be able to help or refer you to a trusted colleague.
Contact us today for a free consultation on any pool service, repair, renovation, or equipment upgrade. Let’s talk about how we can help you get the most out of your pool.
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