What Is Pool Automation?
Pool automation brings the major functions of your pool equipment together under one control system, allowing equipment to operate automatically based on schedules, settings, and commands.
A Central Control System for Your Pool
Instead of operating every piece of pool equipment separately, an automation system acts as a central control point for compatible pumps, heaters, lights, sanitization systems, valves, water features, and other equipment.
The system can coordinate equipment automatically. A pump can run at scheduled times, a heater can maintain a selected temperature, valves can switch between pool and spa operation, and lighting or water features can be activated without manually operating equipment at the pad.
Many modern automation systems also provide remote control through a smartphone, tablet, or web-connected interface, giving pool owners access to important pool functions even when they are away from the equipment pad.
Automatic Scheduling
Schedule pumps, lighting, water features, and other equipment to operate at selected times without daily manual adjustments.
Equipment Coordination
Coordinate compatible pumps, heaters, valves, sanitization systems, and other equipment as one connected pool system.
Remote Control
Compatible systems can provide convenient access to pool settings through smartphones, tablets, wireless controllers, or other connected interfaces.
How a Pool Automation System Works
Pool automation connects the controls you use with the equipment at your pool pad. The automation system receives a command, determines what equipment needs to operate, and sends the appropriate control signal to that equipment.
You Send a Command
Commands can come from an app, indoor controller, schedule, touchscreen, or the automation panel itself.
Automation Controller
The controller processes the command and determines which connected equipment needs to respond.
Control Signal Is Sent
Depending on the equipment, control may occur through a relay, low-voltage connection, valve actuator, or digital communication.
Equipment Responds
The connected equipment performs the requested function.
The Automation System Coordinates the Equipment
Automation is more than a remote on/off switch. The controller can use schedules, temperature readings, operating modes, and programmed settings to determine when compatible equipment should operate.
For example, switching a pool/spa system into Spa Mode may command valve actuators to redirect water to the spa, change the variable-speed pump to a programmed speed, and allow the heater to bring the spa to its selected temperature.
How much control is available depends on the automation system, connected equipment, and how those components communicate with one another. Some equipment is controlled through simple electrical switching, while compatible modern equipment can exchange commands and operating information digitally.
Example: Turning On Spa Mode
One command can trigger several coordinated actions across the equipment pad.
The command is sent from the app, controller, or automation panel.
Actuators redirect suction and return water between the pool and spa.
A compatible variable-speed pump can move to its programmed spa speed.
The automation system can call for heat based on
Understanding the Main Automation Components
Pool automation is not a single device. It is a collection of electrical, control, communication, and sensing components working together. Understanding what each part does makes it easier to identify your existing system, plan an upgrade, or select compatible replacement components.
Automation Control Center
The enclosure at the equipment pad brings many of the system's primary control and electrical components together.
Equipment Control
Components that physically operate or communicate with equipment.
Communication Connections
Low-voltage communication wiring allows compatible equipment, such as variable-speed pumps, to exchange commands and operating information with the controller.
Valve Actuators
Motorized actuators rotate compatible valves automatically for pool/spa switching, water features, solar heating, and other
What Can Pool Automation Control?
A pool automation system can coordinate many of the major functions around a pool or spa from one central controller. Instead of adjusting each piece of equipment individually, compatible devices can be scheduled, monitored, and controlled together.
Exactly what you can control depends on the automation system, equipment installed, and the type of connection available between them.
One Command Can Control Multiple Functions
Automation becomes especially useful when several pieces of equipment need to work together. Selecting Spa Mode, for example, may reposition valve actuators, change the speed of a compatible variable-speed pump, enable heating, and apply the programmed spa temperature setting. Rather than controlling each component separately, the automation system coordinates the sequence for you.
Not every automation system can provide every function shown above. Available control depends on the controller, equipment model, communication method, wiring, and system configuration.
Important: Being able to turn a piece of equipment on and off does not necessarily mean the automation system has full control of that equipment. Digital communication can provide additional functions such as pump speed, operating status, temperature settings, or system feedback.
Single-Body vs. Dual-Body Systems
Automation systems are commonly configured around the number of bodies of water they control. A single-body system typically manages one pool or one spa, while a dual-body system manages both a pool and spa and can automatically redirect water between them.
Single-Body System
A single-body system manages one primary body of water — most commonly a pool. The automation system can control compatible filtration, heating, lighting, sanitization, and other equipment associated with that one body of water.
Dual-Body System
A dual-body system manages both a pool and spa. When equipment is shared, automation can reposition valve actuators to change the plumbing configuration and apply different operating settings for Pool Mode and Spa Mode.
In many pool/spa systems, the pump, filter, and heater are shared. Valve actuators allow the automation system to redirect suction and return water between the pool and spa when the operating mode changes.
Relay Control vs. Digital Communication
Pool automation can control equipment in different ways. Traditional relay control switches electrical circuits on and off, while compatible modern equipment can communicate directly with the automation controller. Understanding the difference helps explain why some equipment offers much more control than others.
Relay Control
A relay acts as an electrically controlled switch. The automation system tells the relay to open or close the circuit, which turns connected equipment on or off. This works well for equipment that only needs basic power control, but the automation system generally does not receive detailed operating information back from the equipment.
Digital Communication
Compatible equipment can exchange commands and information with the automation controller through a communication connection. Instead of simply switching power, the controller may be able to change operating settings, request specific functions, and receive status information from the equipment.
The automation system primarily controls whether the connected electrical circuit is energized.
The automation system can send more specific commands and, when supported, receive operating information back from the equipment.
With basic relay-style control, automation may only determine whether equipment receives power. With a compatible digitally communicating variable-speed pump, the automation system can potentially command specific speeds or operating programs without repeatedly switching the pump's main power supply.
Compatibility matters: Digital communication is not universal. The automation system and the connected equipment must support a compatible communication method. Equipment from different manufacturers may still be controllable, but the available functions can be more limited than with fully compatible equipment.
Understanding RS-485 Communication
RS-485 is a communication standard commonly used to connect automation controllers with compatible pool equipment. Instead of simply switching equipment power on or off, the connection allows digital information to travel between connected devices.
A Communication Network for Compatible Equipment
RS-485 provides the electrical connection that allows compatible devices to exchange digital information. In pool automation, this can allow the controller to communicate with equipment such as variable-speed pumps and other supported devices instead of relying only on basic power switching. The exact commands and information available depend on the automation system and equipment manufacturer.
More Than On / Off Control
Specific commands can be sent to compatible equipment.
Multiple compatible devices may communicate on the same network.
Equipment status or feedback may be available when supported by the system.
Advanced equipment control becomes possible without repeatedly switching main equipment power.
RS-485 defines how electrical data signals are transmitted between devices. The actual commands, functions, and information exchanged are determined by the equipment and automation system. This is why two products can both use RS-485 connections without necessarily being compatible with one another.
Always verify compatibility before connecting equipment. A communication terminal or RS-485 connection does not automatically mean two devices can communicate with each other. Follow the wiring diagram and compatibility requirements provided by the equipment and automation manufacturers.
Automation + Variable-Speed Pumps
Variable-speed pumps are especially useful when integrated with pool automation. Instead of operating at one fixed speed, a compatible pump can respond to different schedules, pool functions, and equipment demands throughout the day.
Different Pool Functions Can Require Different Pump Speeds
A pool does not necessarily need the same amount of water flow for every task. Normal filtration may operate effectively at a lower speed, while heating, spa operation, or certain water features may require increased flow.
When the pump and automation system support compatible digital communication, the controller can request different pump speeds or programs as those functions are activated. This allows pump operation to become part of the overall automation strategy instead of being managed separately.
Pump Speed Can Follow the Pool's Needs
Many digitally controlled variable-speed pumps are supplied with continuous power while the automation system sends operating commands through the communication connection. The controller can then tell the pump when to run and which programmed speed or function to use without treating the pump like a traditional single-speed motor controlled only by a power relay.
Available functions depend on compatibility. Not every variable-speed pump communicates with every automation platform, and the level of control can differ by pump model, automation system, firmware, and connection method. Always verify compatibility before selecting or replacing equipment.
Automation + Pool Heaters
Pool automation can coordinate heating with water temperature, pump operation, schedules, and Pool or Spa Mode. Depending on the heater and automation system, control can range from a basic call for heat to more advanced digital communication.
Automation Decides When Heat Is Needed
The automation system monitors the relevant water temperature and compares it with the selected temperature setting. When the water is below the desired temperature, the system can request heat from the connected heater.
In a pool-and-spa system, separate temperature settings can be used for Pool Mode and Spa Mode. This allows the automation system to apply the appropriate heating target when the operating mode changes.
From Temperature Setting to Heat
The desired pool or spa temperature is set through the automation system.
The pump provides the water flow required for the heating system.
When heating is required, the controller enables or commands the compatible heater.
The automation system stops requesting heat once the selected temperature is satisfied.
Pool automation does not bypass the heater's internal safety controls. The heater still relies on its own operating logic and safety devices before allowing heating to occur. A call for heat from automation does not guarantee that the heater will fire if one of its required operating conditions is not satisfied.
Many heaters can accept an external automation connection that tells the heater when heating is requested. Available functionality may be more limited than a full digital connection.
Compatible heater and automation combinations may exchange additional commands or operating information. The exact features depend on the specific equipment and communication method.
Compatibility matters: heater control methods vary by manufacturer and model. Always verify the heater's supported automation connection, wiring requirements, and available functions before installation or replacement.
Automation + Pool & Spa Lights
Pool automation makes everyday lighting control more convenient by bringing compatible pool and spa lights into the same system used to manage the rest of the pool. Depending on the lighting system, this can include basic on/off control, scheduling, preset colors, and programmed light shows.
Control Pool Lighting From the Same Automation System
Instead of relying only on a manual wall switch or equipment-pad control, compatible pool and spa lights can be operated through the automation system's panel, remote interface, or connected app.
Automation is especially useful for scheduling. Lights can be programmed to turn on in the evening and shut off later without requiring someone to manually operate them each day.
What Do People Use It For?
Automation commonly provides straightforward on/off operation and scheduling for compatible white pool and spa lighting circuits.
Compatible color lighting systems may add preset color selection, programmed light shows, grouping, and other manufacturer-supported lighting functions.
Lighting capabilities depend on compatibility. The available functions depend on the automation system, light model, and how the lighting system is controlled. Always verify compatibility before selecting replacement lights or adding new lighting to an existing automation system.
Automation + Salt Chlorination
A compatible salt chlorination system can be integrated with pool automation so chlorine production works alongside the pool's normal circulation schedule. Depending on the system, automation can also provide output adjustment, Pool and Spa Mode settings, and system status information.
Chlorine Production Works With Pool Circulation
A salt chlorinator generates chlorine while water is moving through the salt cell and the system's required operating conditions are satisfied. Automation helps coordinate that operation with the pool's circulation schedule.
On compatible systems, chlorine-output settings can also be managed through the automation interface rather than requiring adjustments directly at the salt-system controller.
Pump Runtime + Flow + Output
Setting a salt chlorinator to a higher output percentage generally tells the system to produce chlorine for a greater portion of its available operating time. It does not mean the pool currently contains that percentage of chlorine. Actual sanitizer levels still need to be verified through proper water testing.
Compatible automation systems can apply the programmed salt chlorination setting used during normal pool circulation.
Compatible systems may use a separate chlorine-output setting when operating in Spa Mode, allowing chlorination to be adjusted for the much smaller body of water.
Automation does not replace water testing. Salt chlorination can simplify routine sanitizer production, but proper chlorine levels, salt concentration, pH, and overall water balance still need to be monitored and maintained. Available automation functions vary by salt system and controller.
IntelliCenter Control System
IntelliCenter brings compatible pool and spa equipment, schedules, temperatures, and everyday pool functions together under one centralized automation system. Systems can be configured for pool-only or pool/spa applications and expanded for more complex equipment pads.
What Is IntelliCenter?
IntelliCenter acts as the central controller for compatible pool and spa equipment. It allows users to create schedules, manage temperatures, operate equipment, and access supported pool functions without controlling every device separately at the equipment pad.
The exact capabilities depend on the IntelliCenter configuration, connected equipment, available circuits, communication connections, and installed accessories.
One System for the Equipment Pad
Compatible equipment can be coordinated through the same automation platform instead of operating as separate standalone systems.
AquaLink RS + iAquaLink
Jandy AquaLink RS brings compatible pool and spa equipment together under one automation system, while iAquaLink provides convenient smartphone and web-connected access to supported AquaLink functions. Together, they allow everyday pool operation to be managed from the equipment pad, compatible interfaces, or remotely.
What Is AquaLink RS?
AquaLink RS is Jandy's pool and spa automation platform for coordinating compatible equipment and everyday pool functions. Depending on the system configuration, it can manage filtration, pump operation, temperatures, lighting, water features, spa functions, sanitization, and auxiliary equipment.
Schedules and programmed settings allow these functions to operate automatically instead of requiring individual equipment to be adjusted manually throughout the day.
What Does iAquaLink Add?
iAquaLink extends compatible AquaLink control to smartphones, tablets, and web-connected devices.
The automation system that controls and coordinates connected pool and spa equipment.
The connected interface that allows compatible AquaLink systems to be accessed through a smartphone, tablet, or web-connected device.
An older AquaLink installation does not automatically require a completely new automation system to gain modern connected control. Jandy offers iAquaLink and AquaLink upgrade or conversion solutions for certain existing systems. The correct upgrade depends on the existing controller, revision, enclosure, and desired functionality.
System configuration matters. AquaLink RS is available in different configurations and capacities, and not every connected device provides the same level of control. Identify the existing AquaLink system and equipment before selecting replacement boards, interfaces, upgrade kits, or expansion components.
OmniLogic Pool Automation
OmniLogic is Hayward's advanced pool and spa automation platform, designed to bring compatible pumps, heaters, lighting, sanitization, water features, schedules, and other pool functions together under one centralized control system.
What Is OmniLogic?
OmniLogic acts as the central control system for compatible pool and spa equipment. It allows everyday pool functions to be managed from one interface rather than requiring each piece of equipment to be operated separately.
Depending on the installation, users can manage equipment schedules, heating, pumps, lighting, water features, sanitization, and other supported functions from the automation system.
Why Use OmniLogic?
The goal is to make multiple pieces of pool equipment operate as one coordinated system.
Existing Hayward automation installations may have upgrade options depending on the current control system, equipment, wiring, and configuration. An upgrade does not necessarily require replacing every piece of pool equipment, but compatibility should be verified before selecting an upgrade path.
Compatibility determines available control. The functions available through OmniLogic depend on the specific controller configuration, connected equipment, communication method, installed accessories, and system setup. Verify compatibility when adding or replacing equipment.
Can You Mix Equipment Brands?
Yes. A pool does not necessarily need to use the same manufacturer for every piece of equipment. A Pentair automation system, for example, may still be able to operate certain equipment made by another manufacturer.
The important question is not simply whether the equipment can be connected — it is how much control the automation system will have once it is connected.
Pumps, heaters, lights, salt systems, and other equipment can often be mixed across manufacturers. However, available automation functions depend on the equipment, controller, and method used to connect them.
Think about equipment compatibility as different levels of control rather than simply “compatible” or “not compatible.”
The automation system and equipment communicate in a supported way, allowing access to advanced functions, settings, and possibly equipment feedback.
Speed control, temperature settings, status information, schedules, or other supported functions.
The automation system may control the equipment through a relay, remote input, or another basic control method without having full digital communication.
On/off operation or a call-for-heat signal, but limited access to advanced equipment settings.
The equipment may be usable with the automation system, but certain manufacturer-specific features, settings, or feedback may remain unavailable.
Understanding Automation Compatibility
Compatibility is not determined by one specification. The automation controller, equipment model, communication method, and equipment generation all work together to determine what the automation system can actually control.
Which automation platform is installed?
What exact model are you connecting?
Relay, remote input, or digital communication?
Hardware and software versions can matter.
These factors determine which functions the automation system can actually access.
Four Things to Verify Before Adding Equipment
Know Your Automation System
Start with the exact automation model already installed. The controller determines which connection methods and equipment functions it can support.
Use the Exact Equipment Model
Upgrading Older Pool Automation
Older automation systems can continue operating for many years, but aging electronics, discontinued replacement parts, limited equipment compatibility, and older control interfaces can eventually make an upgrade worth considering.
Older Automation
The system may still operate the pool successfully but become more difficult to repair, expand, or integrate with newer equipment.
Newer Automation
A compatible upgrade can modernize the way the pool is controlled while preserving portions of the existing installation when supported.
What Might Be Reused?
The answer depends entirely on the existing system and the upgrade being installed, but a modernization does not necessarily require replacing every component at the equipment pad.
Common Reasons to Upgrade
Repairing an aging platform becomes less practical when important replacement electronics are discontinued or scarce.
New pumps, heaters, lighting, or sanitization equipment may offer functions the older automation system cannot fully use.
Modern automation can provide newer app, web, or remote-control capabilities when supported by the selected platform.
An upgrade may make sense when the existing system lacks the circuits, communication support, or functionality required for planned changes.
Identify the current automation model, revision or generation, enclosure, control board, installed equipment, and desired new functions before selecting an upgrade kit. Similar-looking automation systems can require different upgrade hardware, and not every existing component can necessarily be reused.
Adding Smartphone/App Control
Smartphone control allows a compatible automation system to be managed remotely through an app or web-connected interface. Depending on the system, users may be able to check pool status, adjust temperatures, operate equipment, change schedules, and control other supported functions without being at the equipment pad.
The App Connects You to the Automation System
In most installations, the smartphone is not communicating directly with every pump, heater, light, or valve. The app communicates with the automation platform, and the automation controller then operates the compatible equipment connected to it.
App Control Does Not Replace Automation
The app is generally another way to interact with the automation system. The controller at the equipment pad still handles schedules, equipment commands, sensors, relays, valves, and other automated functions.
Some Older Systems Can Gain Remote Control
Depending on the automation platform, an existing system may support a compatible network or communication accessory that adds smartphone or web access without requiring complete automation replacement.
What Can You Control From Your Phone?
Available functions depend on the automation platform and connected equipment, but common uses include:
Operate supported pumps, lights, features, and auxiliary circuits.
View and adjust supported pool and spa heating settings.
Create or modify automatic equipment operating schedules.
Switch operating modes on compatible dual-body systems.
Operate compatible pool and spa lighting functions.
View available equipment or operating information remotely.
Three Things to Identify
Identify the exact automation system and generation currently installed.
Determine whether the system already includes network connectivity or requires a compatible communication accessory.
Verify which manufacturer app, interface, or upgrade path is supported by the installed automation system.
Remote control depends on the automation platform, communication hardware, software support, and connected equipment. Always identify
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions about choosing, using, upgrading, and replacing pool automation equipment.
What does a pool automation system actually control?
Depending on the system and connected equipment, pool automation can control functions such as pumps, heaters, pool and spa lights, valve actuators, water features, salt chlorination, schedules, and Pool or Spa Mode. Available functions vary by controller and equipment compatibility.
Do all of my pool equipment brands need to match?
No. Mixed-brand equipment is common. However, using equipment from different manufacturers can affect the level of automation control available. Some equipment may offer full digital integration while other equipment may only provide basic on/off or remote control.
Can pool automation control a variable-speed pump?
Yes, when the pump and automation system support a compatible control method. Digital integration can allow the automation system to command different pump speeds or programs for filtration, heating, spa operation, water features, and other functions.
Can pool automation control my heater temperature?
Compatible automation systems can manage pool and spa temperature settings and request heat from the connected heater. The heater still uses its own internal operating logic and safety controls before allowing heating to occur.
Can automation control pool and spa lights?
Yes. Common functions include turning lights on and off and scheduling them. Compatible color-light systems may also support preset colors, light shows, grouping, or other manufacturer-specific lighting functions.
Can automation control a salt chlorinator?
Compatible systems can coordinate salt chlorination with pool circulation and may provide chlorine-output adjustments, separate Pool and Spa Mode settings, or system-status information. The salt cell still requires proper water flow and operating conditions to generate chlorine.
Can I control my pool from my phone?
Many modern automation systems support smartphone or web-based control. Some older systems can also gain remote access through a compatible communication or network upgrade. The exact requirements depend on the automation platform and generation.
Do I need to replace my entire automation system if something fails?
Not necessarily. Depending on the system, individual control boards, relays, transformers, displays, sensors, communication components, and other parts may be replaceable. For older systems, an upgrade kit may sometimes make more sense than repairing the original platform.
Can an older automation system be upgraded?
In many cases, yes. Manufacturer-specific upgrade paths may allow newer control electronics or interfaces to be installed while retaining compatible portions of the existing enclosure, wiring, actuators, or pool equipment. The existing system must be identified before selecting an upgrade.
What information do I need before buying automation equipment?
Start with the exact automation model and generation, whether the pool is single-body or pool/spa, the equipment currently installed, the functions you want to control, and the equipment you plan to add or replace. Exact model and part numbers are especially useful when verifying compatibility.
Automation compatibility can vary by model, generation, wiring, and equipment configuration. Having the model numbers of your existing automation system and pool equipment available makes it much easier to identify compatible replacement or upgrade options.
Find the Right Automation Setup for Your Pool
Whether you're building a new automation system, replacing an older controller, upgrading existing equipment, or trying to determine what will work with your current setup, our pool experts can help you identify compatible options.
Tell us what equipment you have and what you're trying to accomplish.