Equipment Supplies
Online Scams Abound During Chlorine Shortage

News of the shortage on chlorine tablets has hit the mass media and prices have sky rocketed around the nation. A recent spate of price increase notices from some of the top distributors comes on the tail end of a particularly rough start to this years pool season.
Many pool companies are struggling to find essential supplies to build, repair and maintain swimming pools. Positive news like the rebuilding of the BioLab plant came too late to salvage this years shortage on dry chlorine products.
As the chlorine crunch continues, the shortage has begun to impact availability of a variety of essential chemicals including muriatic acid, according to Orenda Technologies.

Online Scams For Chlorine Tabs Growing in Frequency
As legitimate suppliers run out of inventory, consumers are turning to Amazon, Ebay, and a variety of online stores to try and purchase tablets. Unfortunately, a rash of online scams have popped up to capitalize on the pool supply shortages and, as a result, consumers have been getting ripped off with alarming regularity.
Trying to order chlorine tablets on Amazon produced an immediate search result where the top sponsored listings I saw are obvious scammers. The growing number of these scams is concerning. This type of activity represents a serious problem for the pool industry as well as consumers.

One consumer was none to pleased with her online purchase of chlorine tablets, believing she had purchased a 25 pound bucket of tablets based on the exorbitant price. Instead, she says she received her Amazon order which consisted of a small container of aspirin sized chlorine tablets.

Consumers need to be aware of what they are purchasing before they buy from any online retailer, particularly on non-pool supply websites. Online retail marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart carry pool chemicals but are notoriously slow to react to online scams. Some pool scammers operate multiple accounts at a time under a variety of different brands and it can be difficult for consumers to make a distinction on whether they are legitimate or not.

Needless to say, as the chlorine shortage continues, it’s more important than ever to not only fully vette your pool builder and pool service company, but your chemical supplier as well. Although distributors may be in short supply, purchasing from a reputatable and recognized pool supplier is always the best option.
Equipment Supplies
Exploring AI Inverter Pump Technology With Moov Pool Products

In an industry where legacy brands dominate, Moov Pool Products is making waves—quite literally—by introducing cutting-edge technology that promises to reshape the future of pool equipment. At the heart of this innovation is the Moov AI Inverter Pump, a self-learning, adaptive, and cloud-connected piece of equipment that’s redefining what pool professionals and homeowners can expect from their pump.
Founded as a joint venture with global manufacturer Fairland, Moov is relatively new to the North American market. But behind its youthful brand is serious firepower. Fairland, best known globally for their heat pump technology, manufactures hundreds of thousands of pumps, salt systems, and cleaners each year. In markets like Europe, Australia, and Latin America, they’ve become leaders. Moov now acts as Fairland’s North American face—delivering next-gen equipment optimized for this market’s unique challenges and preferences.
To learn more about how this revolutionary pump works—and what sets it apart from traditional variable-speed models—we spoke with Fred Lachance, Director of Sales & Marketing at Moov Pool Products. During our conversation, Lachance provided insight into the technology behind the pump, how it integrates with existing systems, and why Moov believes inverter-driven products represent the future of the pool industry.
A Pump That Thinks For Itself
The standout product in Moov’s lineup is the AI Inverter Pump, which Lachance described as “the first pump of its category that is an inverter pump launching in the North American market.” It’s not just variable speed—it’s intelligent.
Built with an algorithm embedded in the drive module, the pump continuously estimates flow rate based on pressure and automatically adjusts its speed to maintain optimal performance. “If the filter gets clogged or anything else on the pad causes restriction, the pump recognizes that and self-adjusts,” explained Lachance.
Rather than relying on costly flow meters to determine output, Moov’s approach uses internal diagnostics: pressure sensors, wattage readings, and multiple baseline calibration tests upon startup. “It runs at three set speeds and captures performance data to create reference points. From there, it constantly adapts to changes,” said Lachance. This means that a clogged filter or stuck valve doesn’t compromise your pool’s performance—it prompts the pump to compensate in real-time.

Smart Enough to Protect Itself
One of the most impressive features of the Moov AI Inverter Pump is its built-in fail-safes. If water pressure becomes dangerously high due to a blockage or restriction, the pump stops automatically. Users are alerted via the cloud-connected Moov Pool app, which notifies either the pool owner or the technician with an error code.
“All of our equipment comes cloud-enabled out of the box,” said Lachance. “There’s no centralized automation panel needed. The brain is in the cloud.” This app-based system allows Moov’s equipment to be monitored, adjusted, and serviced remotely—whether by the pool owner, a professional, or even Moov’s own support team (with permission).
Designed for Integration, Built for the Future
Even though Moov’s pumps feature smart control through their own app, they don’t force customers into an ecosystem. The pumps communicate easily with popular automation systems from the “big three” manufacturers via standard RS-485 connections, and that cable comes included in the box.
Still, Lachance is confident that the future of pool automation won’t involve central panels. “Those were created when individual components weren’t smart. But now, every component can be independently controlled. Why pay thousands extra for a board just to connect to your phone?”
Moov’s approach reflects a broader trend toward decentralized automation—giving pool owners more choice and better control at a lower price point.

So Quiet You Might Think It’s Off
In addition to intelligence, the Moov AI Inverter Pump boasts whisper-quiet operation. “We challenge people at trade shows—this is a live unit. If you find a quieter 1.65 HP pump, I’ll give you this one for free,” said Lachance.
This silence is thanks to its inverter technology, which converts AC power to DC through a modulation system that stabilizes electrical current and minimizes fluctuations. The result is smoother, more efficient performance with less heat, less vibration, and remarkably low noise. “We’re registering 32.6 decibels at one meter,” Lachance said. “Often people don’t realize it’s on.”
The pump’s motor—a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM)—further reduces friction and heat, contributing to a longer lifespan and higher efficiency compared to traditional induction motors.
Simplified User Experience
Moov’s design philosophy centers around user experience. The pump’s large touchscreen interface is a departure from typical button-and-dial controls. “You’ll see a big percentage display showing the speed, wattage usage at the top, and intuitive navigation that makes it easy—even for a homeowner who doesn’t know what a filter is,” said Lachance.
It may seem unorthodox to put a full display on a piece of backyard equipment, but Moov sees it as necessary. As homeowners become less familiar with the technical aspects of pool systems, simplicity becomes critical.
Overcoming the Challenges of Adoption
Despite the technology, quiet performance, and sleek interface, Moov faces challenges. “We’re a new brand. Builders aren’t going to flip overnight,” admitted Lachance. But that’s starting to change.
“Once someone tries one of our products, they usually come back,” he said. “It’s about earning trust through performance and service.” Moov’s young, motivated team—averaging just over 30 years old—is working to build that trust one installer at a time.
Education is another hurdle. “Compared to Europe or Australia, we’re five to ten years behind on technology adoption in this industry,” said Lachance. But with DOE regulations mandating variable speed pumps on most systems, the tide is beginning to turn.
Innovation Beyond the Pump
Moov isn’t just banking on one product. Inverter heat pumps are another major focus for the company, with models boasting a coefficient of performance (COP) up to 18—three times more efficient than standard heat pumps. As Lachance explained, “In Europe, 95% of the market is now inverter heat pumps. In Canada, it’s over 50%. The U.S. is next.”
Moov is also finalizing a new chemical automation product that will monitor and adjust pH and ORP levels in real-time—bringing affordability and ease of use to pool chemistry management. “Water may look clear, but that doesn’t mean it’s balanced. We want to help owners manage their water without needing to be chemists.”
A Specialized Approach
Unlike full-line manufacturers, Moov is focused on what they do best. “We don’t do gas heaters or single-speed pumps. We focus on inverter-based technology, and we aim to be the best at it,” Lachance said.
That focus on specialization—combined with open-platform integration and user-friendly design—positions Moov as a bold disruptor in a space long dominated by a few giants.
Conclusion
The Moov AI Inverter Pump isn’t just another variable-speed pump—it’s a glimpse into the future of pool equipment. With AI-powered adaptability, cloud-based control, whisper-quiet operation, and forward-thinking design, Moov is setting a new standard for what a pump should be. And if the company’s ambitious roadmap is any indication, this is only the beginning.
As the pool industry evolves, companies like Moov are challenging long-held assumptions and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—not by copying the past, but by inventing the future.
Ready to take a deeper dive?
Listen to our entire conversation with Fred Lachance with Moov Pool Products on the Pool Magazine Podcast.
Equipment Supplies
Pentair Pool: Level Up Your Operation With Automation

In today’s connected world, consumers expect convenience at their fingertips. For the pool industry, that means automation isn’t just a luxury anymore—it’s a necessity. On a recent episode of the Pool Magazine Podcast, we sat down with Israel Saari, Digital Solutions Category Manager at Pentair Pool, to explore how Pentair automation tools are reshaping the industry for both homeowners and pool professionals.
Meeting the Modern Customer Where They Are
“Homeowners expect a convenient and connected experience, including for their swimming pool,” said Saari. With over 25 years in the technology space, he’s seen firsthand how digital expectations have shifted. From smart fridges to connected doorbells, tech-savvy homeowners want their pools to be just as intelligent—and easy to control from their phones.
“The pool is one of the biggest investments many homeowners make,” he explained. “They want connected experiences that save them money, that create ease of life, so they can focus on other things that are more important to them.”
At Pentair, automation begins with a centralized system that controls the entire pool pad—everything from pumps to lighting—via the Pentair Pool app. This interface makes pool care simpler and less intimidating for homeowners while providing full access and control no matter where they are in the world.
Pentair Automation: Smart Solutions for Every Pool
Saari highlighted several key products in the Pentair automation lineup, starting with the IntelliFlo3 Variable Speed Pump. “It’s a great entry point into automation,” he said. “You’re getting a premium pump, but also the benefit of built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, plus a couple of relays to control other components like a heater, lights, or a booster pump.”
For those managing more complex pool systems—think dual bodies of water, pool/spa combos, and multiple pumps—Pentair’s IntelliCenter is the flagship solution. It offers robust capabilities, including integrated scheduling, user permissions, and control of every feature through the app.
And for homeowners with existing EasyTouch or IntelliTouch systems, Pentair hasn’t left them behind. “We offer an upgrade kit,” Saari said. “You just swap out the panel—it takes an hour or less—and now you’ve got access to the new Pentair Pool app experience.”
For budget-conscious upgrades, there’s also IntelliCenter Lite, ideal for clients with existing breaker panels who want to add intelligent control without fully replacing infrastructure.

The Power of Remote Monitoring
As automation becomes standard, the real value-add is remote monitoring. “When our customers install IntelliCenter, they can walk the homeowner through app setup—but also add themselves as managed users,” explained Saari.
This dual-access setup opens the door to Pentair’s Remote Monitoring Dashboard, a browser-based platform that gives pool professionals a bird’s-eye view of every system they maintain.
Rather than logging into individual apps, techs can monitor hundreds of IntelliCenter systems from a single interface. “It shows connection status, system information, air and water temps, heater performance, chlorinator output, lighting, pump performance, even chemical levels if the pool is equipped with IntelliChem or IntelliChlor,” said Saari.
And it’s not just for viewing—techs can sort systems by alarms and even connect directly to make changes remotely. “It’s extremely valuable both to the homeowner and to our customers,” he emphasized.

Why It Matters for Pool Pros
Whether you’re a builder or a service technician, the benefits of remote automation are substantial.
“For builders, you want that eye in the sky,” said Saari. “Even if you’re not servicing the pool, you can make sure everything is functioning correctly after the build. If the customer is fiddling with settings or something isn’t right, you have instant access.”
For service professionals, the platform offers something even more powerful: proactive maintenance and fewer truck rolls. “They know what the pump should sound like, how it should flow, what kind of power draw is normal,” he explained. “When something’s off, they can see it before the customer even knows there’s a problem.”
This translates to better service, faster diagnosis, and reduced travel. “It could be a simple fix—like adjusting a schedule or pump flow—and you can do that without ever leaving the shop,” he added.
Turning Automation Into Revenue
Beyond operational efficiency, remote monitoring opens the door to new service tiers and revenue streams. “A lot of our customers offer premium white-glove services,” said Saari. “For a fee, they’ll monitor that system daily. It gives homeowners peace of mind knowing someone’s keeping an eye on things even between visits.”
Whether it’s a monthly add-on or part of a seasonal maintenance package, Saari noted that many homeowners are happy to pay extra for the reassurance.
“When you start solving problems proactively and that pool is always humming—clean water, optimized systems—you’re building loyalty,” he said. “You’re differentiating yourself from the competition.”
How to Get Started With Pentair Automation
According to Saari, integrating IntelliCenter and remote monitoring into your operation is easier than you think. The key is to start with a standard operating procedure during installation: “Add your business email as a managed user when setting up the system. Or if the pool is already installed, the homeowner can invite you through the app.”
Once that connection is made, techs can log into the remote dashboard at pro.pentairpool.com using their credentials—no complex setup required. A large TV in the office running the dashboard on a loop is how many top service firms monitor pool fleets in real time.
Pentair also offers hands-on training through Pentair University. “If you’re new to automation, our trainers and field reps won’t let you fail,” Saari said. “They’ll walk you through everything and make sure you’re confident using these tools.”
Standing Apart from the Competition
As automation becomes the norm, Saari sees Pentair’s remote monitoring solution as a powerful differentiator.
“This is the first and only consolidated dashboard in the pool industry with this level of detail,” he said. “It’s a unique selling proposition, whether you’re pitching a new build or promoting your service business.”
Between continuous updates to the Pentair Pool app and a steady stream of enhancements to IntelliCenter, the future looks bright. “We’ve got some exciting things planned for 2025,” Saari hinted. “Stay tuned.”
If you’re a pool professional ready to elevate your operation, now is the time to LevelUp with Pentair automation. Visit pro.pentairpool.com to get started.
Ready to take a deeper dive?
Listen to our entire conversation with Israel Saari, Digital Solutions Category Manager at Pentair Pool and learn how you can level up your operation with automation.
Cleaning and Service Equipment and Supplies
Streamlining Maintenance with the Right Cartridge Filter Replacement

When it comes to efficient pool maintenance, selecting the right cartridge filter replacement can have a profound impact on service schedules, inventory management, and operational costs. Cartridge filters, like those offered by Pleatco and discussed by Scott Gleason and Kevin Stewart of Pentair Pool on the Pool Magazine podcast, offer pool service professionals a way to streamline their operations.
This article aims to explore the specific time-saving benefits, how standardized cartridges simplify inventory management, the reduction in operational costs, and the advantages of replacing sand filters with cartridge systems. We will also identify the ideal pool types for cartridge filters and how Pleatco’s innovative replacements improve maintenance efficiency.
Time-Saving Benefits for Maintenance Schedules
One of the biggest challenges pool professionals face is balancing busy schedules, especially during peak seasons. Scott Gleason emphasized how the right filter cartridge can extend the time between cleaning cycles. Pleatco’s advanced cartridges feature point bonded filtration fabric and PurePleat technology, which distribute dirt evenly and reduce flow resistance over time. This means fewer service calls to clean clogged filters and quicker service when cleaning is required.
“Less frequent and quicker service events translate into fewer unscheduled visits, making it easier for pool pros to manage their time efficiently,” Gleason explained. This enhanced efficiency allows technicians to serve more clients without compromising quality.

Simplifying Inventory Management with Standardized Cartridges
Kevin Stewart highlighted how Pleatco’s cartridge design supports multiple pool brands, eliminating the need for pool pros to stock various filter types. “By standardizing cartridges, service pros save both time and money. You won’t need to maintain a large inventory of different brands, which makes things much simpler,” Stewart said.
Pleatco’s ultra-line cartridges are particularly noteworthy because they combine multiple filter functions into a single, versatile product, fitting a wide variety of pool systems. This consolidation minimizes inventory while ensuring professionals are prepared for various service scenarios.
Operational Cost Savings with the Right Filter Cartridges
Using high-quality cartridges not only saves time but also reduces operational costs. Gleason explained that opting for cheaper, lower-quality filters often leads to more frequent cleanings and service visits. “While some pool owners may focus on the initial cost, higher-quality cartridges offer long-term savings by extending cleaning intervals and ensuring optimal filtration,” Gleason noted.
Pleatco’s cartridges also help conserve water. Cartridge systems eliminate the need for backwashing, a process required with sand filters that wastes chlorinated water. Stewart pointed out, “Skipping backwashing avoids chemical loss and aligns with water conservation efforts, especially in regions with water restrictions.”
Advantages of Replacing Sand Filters with Cartridge Filtration
Cartridge filters offer several advantages over traditional sand filters. Stewart noted that “cartridge filtration delivers better water clarity by capturing particles nearly twice as small as sand filters.” Additionally, cartridge systems provide greater square footage for water filtration, reducing the frequency of cleanings.
Sand filters require frequent backwashing, which can occur weekly, while cartridge filters may only need cleaning every few months. The absence of backwashing in cartridge systems not only saves water but also simplifies maintenance, reducing downtime for pool owners.

Best Pool Types for Cartridge Filters
According to Gleason, cartridge filters are ideal for several specific pool settings:
- Residential pools with space constraints where large sand filters would be impractical.
- Saltwater pools that benefit from the fine filtration capabilities of cartridges.
- Pools in areas with water restrictions, where conserving water is critical.
- Low-usage pools that don’t require constant backwashing, making them ideal for cartridge filtration.
These filters are particularly well-suited for pools where water clarity is paramount, and maintenance needs to be minimal.
Key Features to Look for in Cartridge Filters for Extended Cleaning Cycles
Feature | Benefit | Impact on Maintenance |
---|---|---|
Point Bonded Fabric | Greater dirt capture and stability | Fewer cleanings needed, extending service cycles |
Open Flow Core Design | Reduces resistance and operating pressure | Improves water flow and filtration efficiency |
PurePleat Technology | Prevents pleat bunching and ensures even loading | Quicker and easier cartridge rinsing |
Universal Fit | Compatible with multiple brands | Simplifies inventory and reduces replacement time |
Durability | Resists wear and tear | Longer cartridge life, reducing replacement frequency |

How Pleatco Cartridges Help Pool Professionals Accommodate a Busy Maintenance Schedule
With maintenance schedules becoming more demanding, especially during peak pool season, using Pleatco filters ensures service professionals can meet tight timelines. “Making an extra trip to a pool for filter cleaning can feel tedious, especially during busy times,” Gleason noted. “Pleatco’s ultra-line cartridges allow for fast and easy cleaning, which means less time spent on each service call.”
This is achieved by the combination of Pleatco’s key features—point bonded fabric, open flow core, and PurePleat technology. Together, these innovations reduce the frequency of filter cleanings and make rinsing faster when needed.
“Service techs can expect cartridge cleaning to be as simple as removing, rinsing, and replacing,” Gleason added. This streamlined process helps professionals move through their service routes more efficiently, accommodating a larger number of clients.
As an industry leader in the pool and spa space, Pentair Pool is driven to help people safely and sustainably enjoy water. Their solutions include industry-leading pumps, automation, lighting, heating, and filtration technology that help customers enjoy a smarter and more sustainable pool. Pleatco compliments Pentair’s innovative product solutions with quality and cutting-edge pool and spa filtration technology. For more information, visit www. pentair. com/pleatco.
Ready to take a deeper dive?
Listen to our entire discussion about Pleatco cartridge filter replacements with Scott Gleason and Kevin Stewart on the Pool Magazine podcast.
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