How Variable Speed Smart Pumps Can Boost Your Business
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With more than 10.7 million pools in the U.S., according to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, pool professionals are witnessing a transformative shift in how they service their customers. This includes an increased focus on innovative and connected technologies that follow new regulations by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
According to the DOE, pool pumps can be a home’s second-largest consumer of energy. And as a result, new rules require pool pumps to meet minimum efficiency standards in the U.S. To maximize these energy efficiencies without worrying about performance, pool professionals should consider offering variable-speed pool pumps that meet DOE requirements.
Unlike single-speed pumps, variable-speed pumps allow pool owners to select the times and speeds to keep the water flowing in their pools. By raising and lowering the speed as needed, instead of keeping the same speed all day, a variable-speed pool pump uses less energy. This can result in cost savings for pool owners in addition to improved water flow and less wear and tear on equipment.
Here’s a deeper look at the benefits of today’s variable-speed pool pumps.
Maximize Water Flow Performance
The key to a properly maintained pool is moving water, made possible with a pool pump. Poor pump performance can lead to an unsanitary pool, more frequent filter cleaning, poor water clarity and more. These issues can also impact customer satisfaction, which may cost pool professionals sales opportunities.
“Moving water is very important for water filtration and quality,” said Adam Key, Product Manager at Pentair Pool. “With variable-speed pumps, now you can have constant moving water at a slower flow rate. This allows for better water clarity and quality and thus fewer issues for pool servicers.”
When servicing a pool, the flow rate, which calculates the volume of water passing through the pump, is important to maintain water clarity and quality. Flow rate should be tested and adjusted regularly.
Choosing a variable-speed pump can offer better control over water flow and pressure, leading to improved filtration and cleaner pools. Pool professionals can market this improved performance as a benefit to potential customers.
In addition, several other features should be explored when selecting the right pool pump. For example, the Pentair IntelliFlo3 Variable Speed and Flow Pump includes a built-in automation system for optimal flow and performance by automatically adjusting its speed to compensate for filter loading, heating, cleaning, and more. With these innovative technologies, pool professionals can spend less time servicing the pool equipment pad, and pool owners have more time to enjoy their pool while saving energy and money.
Operate Efficiently with Automation
As the industry continues to evolve and products become more connected, pool professionals are working hard to provide their customers with the tools they need to more easily enjoy their backyard pool. By replacing outdated pumps with automated, energy-saving alternatives, pool owners can reduce their environmental impact and enjoy some cost savings.
And by using an automated pump, such as the Pentair Pool award-winning IntelliFlo3® Variable Speed and Flow Pump, pool professionals can make their jobs easier and help grow their business. These advanced pumps are easy to install and deliver top-notch performance to impress pool owners with entry-level automation that connects up to two devices, enabling them to effortlessly control their pool lights and more.
“Automated variable-speed pool pumps can conveniently connect to the homeowner’s Wi-Fi to gain access to applications that benefit both the pool professional and the pool owner,” said Key. “This allows pool servicers to monitor the pump remotely, saving time and fuel by eliminating service trips and easing common challenges before they arise.”
By offering connected variable-speed pool pumps to their customers, pool professionals can rely on better service and peace of mind with remote monitoring. It allows pool professionals to receive alerts in real-time, helping to diagnose issues and operating conditions all from a smart device.
What makes variable-speed and flow so notable is its incredible energy efficiency. In fact, with a third-generation IntelliFlo3® Variable Speed and Flow Pump, pool owners can save up to 90%* on energy consumption compared to a single speed pump.
“These pumps allow for easy installation and sync with existing pool automation systems,” said Rob Gaither, Sales Manager for Pentair Pool. “If you have a customer who likes the idea of being able to do more with their pool, whether safe powering of a salt flow generator to changing the pool color lights for their kid’s birthday party, automation is a solution that offers simpler operations more affordably. And it creates more upsell opportunities for pool servicers.”
Become the Expert
The swimming pool is a universal symbol of fun. It symbolizes relaxation, laughter, and a healthy body and mind. But behind all the fun of a summer swim is a complex system of installations that needs to work, no matter what.
“When you look at the pool industry post-COVID, we have more swimming pools in the U.S. than we have ever had before,” said Gaither. “This means there is also an influx of new pool owners, which can impose safety risks if they are not properly educated on their pool’s capabilities, functions and maintenance needs. From a safety standpoint, the variable-speed pump allows the pool servicer some control to educate and help customers create a safe swimming environment.”
Helping customers understand their pool equipment pad and how everything works together is essential. But with so much information to absorb, the customer is likely to forget.
“Over the past two years, I have trained over 10,000 pool professionals,” said Gaither. “We are counting on them to trickle down that knowledge to pool owners and build trust as industry experts. They are counting on our advice.”
Staying up to date on the latest technology ensures that pool professionals can provide the highest quality service, support safe pools, and leverage new technologies to benefit their customers.
“Pentair Pool University offers a wide range of courses, seminars, and workshops designed to provide the latest training to pool industry professionals,” said Key.
A Pump for any Pool
A pool pump is the heart of the pool’s filtration system and plays an important role in keeping the water clean and clear.
Upgrading to a variable-speed pool pump can not only offer better control of the water flow but also reduces your customer’s environmental impact. These pumps offer many business-boosting opportunities for pool professionals, including enhanced service quality, streamlined operations, and staying ahead in an increasing competitive market.
Pentair Pool offers a variety of pool pumps for pool owners to choose from, including variable-speed pool pumps that offer a more effortless pool experience. Designed to take the pool industry to the next level, the Pentair Pool IntelliFlo3® Variable Speed and Flow Pump allows pool servicers to conquer their install like a champ. With flexibility to suit any pool size, these pumps offer entry-level automation, optional touchscreens, and the ability to manage additional pool products.
And with new variable speed pumps, pool professionals will ensure pools follow the latest DOE regulations, significantly improve their bottom line and strengthen customer loyalty – all while offering pool owners lower electrical bills, cleaner water, and a quieter, more peaceful backyard.
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Savings based on variable speed pump compared to a single-speed pump running 12 hours per day at an average of $0.16 per kWh in a 20,000-gallon pool. Actual savings may vary based on local utility rates, pool size, pump run time, pump horsepower, pump rpm, plumbing size and length, pump model, service factor and other hydraulic factors. Individual Weighted Energy Factor (WEF) scores and savings may vary by model.
References
Choosing, Installing, and Operating an Efficient Swimming Pool Pump https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/choosing-installing-and-operating-efficient-swimming-pool-pump