Features
Getting Pools up to date in 2025
Pool and backyard renovations are set to be a major trend in 2025. Pool professionals are anticipating a decline in new pool construction next season. Still, with millions of existing pools—many outdated in style and equipment—there’s a significant opportunity for outdoor living designers and pool professionals. By updating these pools, they can help homeowners bring their spaces into the modern era. Along with new pool liners, decking, and lighting, offering an automation system is the perfect way to integrate the latest technology into swimming pools and outdoor living areas.
Embracing automation
Backyard automation is a rapidly growing market, following the trajectory of HVAC, home security, home entertainment, and lighting automation systems within the home. If homeowners have no resistance or objection to technology, backyard automation will seamlessly integrate into their lifestyle.
Targeting a specific age bracket for selling is unnecessary, as anyone can express interest in connected automation features. Younger Gen Xers, millennials, and even baby boomers who are into gadgets seek these devices to have more control over their homes. The prominence of smart thermostats, security systems, and lighting features online and in big-box stores has significantly increased awareness.
Customers routinely inquire about pool automation, often starting the discussion by asking if there is a way to remotely control their pool water temperature. This is typically followed by questions about whether there is an app for that. Most clients are primarily interested in controlling their heaters, pool lights, and water chemistry. Customers have also expressed the desire to control multi-port valves to enable water features and have a general understanding of what is happening at the pool when they are away. They have also expressed a general sense of consumption, such as how much energy and water is consumed, corroborating that with monthly water and electricity bills.
The smartphone has driven the consumer’s desire to control all the elements of their home from anywhere, all in the palm of their hand. Exterior landscape lights, pool lights, hot tubs, pool temperatures, and control over pool and hot tub water chemistry are all manageable through mobile devices. Providing simple automation helps ensure client satisfaction by offering a trouble-free, easy-to-maintain pool. Automation simplifies the maintenance of the homeowner’s backyard, allowing pool owners to ensure the pool is managed correctly without having to go outdoors to check before bed.
One common obstacle is understanding what part of the equipment pad is automated and how the automation system enhances the equipment it is connected to. Other things include comfort with technology and using the smartphone app associated with automation systems. A question that might need to be asked is, “Are there other devices that might impede the automation system (e.g. an old-school time clock)?” Finally, just because the pool equipment is now automated does not mean all issues are solved, so monitor the equipment and its performance.
Simple solutions
The benefits of backyard automation include enabling remote control over various aspects of the outdoor living space, providing alerts and updates in case of malfunctions, and analyzing multiple systems in detail. Simpler automation systems tend to be the most effective for most customers. Intuitive, easy-to-operate systems are key to keeping customers happy. These systems must offer enough features to satisfy the homeowner’s needs while remaining simple enough to avoid requiring technical support after installation.
Fortunately, control system interfaces have become more user-friendly, even as their capabilities expand. Understanding a client’s routine and preferences allows professionals to offer solutions tailored to their needs. While many customers are technologically savvy, most rely on trusted outdoor living/pool and hot tub experts to help them comprehend and recommend optimal solutions for modernizing their pool.
Some of the best ways pool professionals can stay current with automation technology are through tradeshows, trade magazines, working with local sales reps, equipment manufacturers, and even customers. These are great ways to stay abreast of all the new developments in automation.
The trend toward smart homes has accelerated, fueled by increased time spent at home, boosting demand for home networking, entertainment, and environmental control systems. This shift has also driven the growth of outdoor living spaces, with homeowners seeking backyard resorts. Automation and modernization are now inextricably linked.
Modernizing with automation offers cost-saving benefits
Automation simplifies chores associated with pool and hot tub ownership and brings cost-saving benefits. Timers for outdoor and pool lights help reduce electricity costs, as does regulating pool and spa water temperatures. Automated pool and hot tub water chemistry dosing and control prevent overdosing or imbalance, minimizing the need for excessive chemical use and reducing overall expenses. Maintaining balanced pool water chemistry is especially critical for plaster pools, as unbalanced chemistry can lead to costly repairs.
Automation allows one to react to a pool’s water chemistry needs quickly. Whether there is a change in pH or chlorine levels, automation systems can promptly address the pool’s needs and can be adjusted remotely. This takes the waiting for a service professional to come and test out of the equation. Automation systems that can read pH and oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) levels will be best suited because they can gauge and give readings, subsequently dosing when needed.
Many clients with salt chlorine generators often experience issues when their salt system shuts down due to pH imbalances in the pool water. This problem typically arises because improper pH levels lead to scale build-up on the salt cell assembly, which causes the chlorine generator to shut off.
A pH automation controller can be installed to measure and dose the pool water to address this issue, ensuring proper pH levels are maintained. A compact, user-friendly pH controller with app-based notifications is ideal, as it alerts users when the water goes out of range, allowing for necessary adjustments.
Many pool professionals agree that automation systems can help avoid problems that increase a pool’s operating costs. While automation doesn’t replace regular service, systems like chemical controllers and feeders ensure all systems function correctly between service calls.
Service professionals can enhance the service they provide. By not only having more access to real-time equipment status and remote access in some cases, service professionals can get information on their routes and pools before time, meaning that each service call is more meaningful and impactful. Additionally, with monitoring services, service professionals can provide customers with a higher level of personalized, premium service that goes beyond standard expectations, not only upselling opportunities but also strong customer relations.
There still need to be maintenance checks on equipment and chemical refills (UberEats for chemicals is not ready just yet!), and perhaps just general visual checks on the pool, but it does cut down on time, and with more time, more pools are serviced.
Automation systems also provide valuable data, enabling service professionals to identify issues, such as pH imbalances or malfunctioning lights, before they escalate. This proactive approach gives service companies a competitive advantage by allowing for more specific discussions with clients rather than general inquiries about backyard conditions.
Customer satisfaction
Many pool professionals agree that offering and installing simple automation systems helps modernize pools for customers while differentiating their businesses from competitors. Automation can be a game-changer for independent pool and spa professionals. In addition to upgrading pools, automation fosters customer loyalty by empowering clients with greater control and enhancing their sense of ownership over a more modern pool experience.
As mentioned, it also allows for a deeper understanding of what is happening with the customer’s equipment and distant visibility. Technically, an automation system almost gives the client’s pool constant monitoring and care capabilities around the clock. Additionally, contract provisions could allow this monitoring to be down to an additional dollar figure. The author has seen service professionals offer equipment upgrades and monitoring components, which has been an excellent driver of top-line revenue for them.
Offering pool automation boosts customer satisfaction and excitement about their backyard investment. These systems simplify pool maintenance and make operating other components easier, even remotely. Automation enhances the backyard experience with features like colourful lighting, optimal water temperature, and chemistry when clients jump into their pools.
Now is the perfect time for pool and hot tub professionals to consider offering simple backyard automation. The off-season is ideal for exploring new automation systems so professionals can modernize their clients’ pools in 2025.
Buying a home with a pool can almost feel like you hit the jackpot—until you realize that the swimming pool is its own ecosystem with its own set of rules, maintenance needs, and potential headaches. A backyard pool can absolutely elevate a property, but if you don’t know what you’re looking at, it can also turn into an expensive surprise. The key is understanding what to look for before you close, not after you’re already holding the keys.
You already called out some of the big visual red flags—loose tiles, green water, low levels, and structural cracks. Those are the obvious ones. But the real story usually lives just beneath the surface and over on the equipment pad.
Let’s walk through the top pool-related issues home buyers need to be aware of so you don’t inherit someone else’s problem project.
Structural Integrity Beyond the Obvious
Hairline cracks happen. That’s normal. But not all cracks are created equal. What you want to pay attention to are structural cracks—especially ones that run horizontally, widen over time, or show signs of movement.
Cracks in steps, benches, or along the bond beam (top edge of the pool) can indicate shifting soil, poor construction, or long-term neglect. If the pool is losing water and there are visible cracks, that’s a double whammy—now you’re talking structural repair plus leak detection.
Also look for signs of previous patchwork. If you see multiple areas that have been repaired or resurfaced inconsistently, that could mean ongoing issues rather than a one-time fix.
Pool Surface Condition (Plaster, Pebble, Vinyl, Fiberglass)
The interior finish tells you a lot about how the pool has been maintained. Plaster that feels rough, stained, or etched is usually the result of poor water chemistry over time. Pebble finishes should be uniform—if they look worn down or patchy, resurfacing could be on the horizon.
Vinyl liner pools have their own issues—wrinkles, fading, or brittleness are signs the liner is nearing the end of its life. Fiberglass pools should be smooth and glossy; dull or chalky finishes could indicate oxidation or improper care.
Resurfacing isn’t a minor expense, so this is one of those things you want to factor into your offer if it’s close.
Equipment Pad: The Heart of the System
One of the biggest mistakes people make when buying a home with a pool is that they forget to look at the pool equipment first. This often proves to be a costly error. The equipment pad is where you’ll find out if the system is dialed in or held together with duct tape and prayers.
Here’s what to inspect:
Pump: Listen for grinding or whining noises. That usually means worn bearings or a failing motor.
Filter: Check for leaks, rust, or cracks. Ask when it was last cleaned or replaced.
Heater: Look for corrosion, especially if the home is near the coast. Heaters are expensive to replace.
Chlorinator or Salt System: Salt cells have a limited lifespan. If it’s older, you may be replacing it soon.
Automation System: If there’s a control panel or app-based system, test it. Make sure it actually works.
A clean, organized equipment pad is usually a good sign. If it looks chaotic, poorly plumbed, or neglected, that tells you everything you need to know about how the pool has been cared for.
Circulation and Flow Issues
Even if the water looks okay during a showing, circulation problems can be hiding underneath. Poor circulation leads to algae growth, cloudy water, and inconsistent chemical distribution.
Watch for:
Weak return jets
Dead spots where debris collects
Air bubbles in the pump basket
Water not reaching skimmers properly
These can point to suction leaks, clogged lines, or undersized equipment. None of those are fun to deal with after the fact.
Signs of a Leak (Beyond Low Water Level)
Low water is one clue, but leaks don’t always present that clearly. Pools naturally lose some water to evaporation, especially in hot climates, so you need to dig deeper.
Look for:
Wet spots or sinking areas around the pool
Cracks in decking that seem to be shifting
Constant need to refill the pool
Air in the system (bubbles in returns)
A leak detection test might cost a few hundred bucks during escrow, but it can save you thousands if there’s an underground issue.
Decking and Drainage Problems
The area around the pool matters just as much as the pool itself. Poor drainage can lead to water pooling near the foundation or undermining the pool structure over time.
Watch for:
Uneven or lifting deck surfaces
Standing water after rain or heavy use
Cracks that run toward the pool
Deck material separating from the coping
This isn’t just cosmetic. Drainage issues can lead to bigger structural problems if left unchecked.
Coping and Tile Line Condition
The coping (the edge around the pool) and tile line take a beating from weather, chemicals, and constant water exposure. Loose coping stones or deteriorating grout can allow water to seep behind the shell, leading to bigger issues.
If tiles are falling off or the grout is crumbling, it’s usually a sign of long-term neglect rather than a quick fix situation.
Electrical and Safety Compliance
This is one area you don’t want to overlook. Pools involve electricity, water, and metal—bad combination if things aren’t up to code.
Make sure:
GFCI outlets are present and functional
Bonding wires are intact
Pool lights are working and properly sealed
There are no exposed or makeshift electrical connections
Older pools may not meet current code, and bringing them up to standard can cost real money.
Age and Remaining Life of Equipment
Everything on a pool has a lifespan. Pumps, heaters, filters, and salt cells don’t last forever. If the equipment is 8–12 years old or older, you should assume replacements are coming soon.
Ask for:
Installation dates
Service records
Any recent repairs or upgrades
If the seller doesn’t know, that’s already a signal.
Water Chemistry History
You can tell a lot about a pool just by testing the water. If levels are wildly off during a showing, that might mean the pool hasn’t been maintained properly.
Poor chemistry over time leads to:
Surface damage
Equipment wear
Algae growth
Scaling and staining
Even if it looks clean for the showing, bad habits tend to leave long-term damage.
Pool Size, Depth, and Usability
Not all pools are practical for every buyer. Some are too deep, too shallow, or oddly shaped for actual use.
Think about:
Is the depth appropriate for your family?
Is there usable space for lounging or playing?
Are steps and entries safe and accessible?
A pool that looks impressive but isn’t functional can become more of a burden than a benefit.
Permits and Compliance
Make sure the pool was built legally and permitted. Unpermitted pools can create issues with insurance, resale, and liability.
Also check:
Fencing requirements
Safety gates and alarms
Local compliance standards
You don’t want to inherit a compliance issue that becomes your problem.
What Sellers Should Be Providing to Smooth the Sale
When buying a home with a pool, one of the clearest signs of how well it’s been cared for is the documentation the seller can provide.
Pools make buyers nervous for a reason. Unknown condition, hidden issues, and lack of maintenance history can quickly turn a great backyard into a question mark. The more information a seller can provide, the easier it is to evaluate the pool with confidence.
Here’s what the seller should have ready:
Builder Information
Who built the pool? Was it a reputable company? If you’ve got original plans or documentation, that’s gold.
Service History
Provide records of regular maintenance. Show that the pool has been consistently cared for, not ignored until listing day.
Equipment Manuals
Buyers don’t want to inherit a system they can’t operate. Having manuals or even basic written instructions goes a long way.
Warranty Information
If any equipment is still under warranty, make that clear. Transferable warranties are a big plus.
Recent Repairs or Upgrades
Be transparent about what’s been done—new pump, resurfacing, tile work, etc. This builds trust and reduces negotiation friction.
Utility and Operating Costs
Give buyers a realistic idea of what it costs to run the pool monthly. This helps eliminate surprises.
Pool Service Contact
If you have a reliable service company, introduce them. Buyers love continuity, especially if they’re new to pool ownership.
Startup Instructions
A simple “how to run your pool” guide—timers, valves, cleaning schedule—can make a huge difference for a first-time pool owner.
Clean, Balanced Water
This sounds basic, but it matters. A clean, properly balanced pool during showings sends a strong signal that the pool has been maintained.
At the end of the day, buying a home with a pool isn’t just about the backyard lifestyle—it’s about inheriting a system. If that system is in good shape, you’re stepping into something awesome. If it’s not, you’re stepping into a project.
Do your homework, get a professional pool inspection during escrow, and treat the pool with the same level of scrutiny as the roof or foundation. Because when a pool goes sideways, it doesn’t mess around.
Does a Pool Add Resale Value?
Yes—but it depends on the market, the condition of the pool, and how well it’s maintained.
A 2025 study from Realtor.com found that homes with pools sold for a 54% premium—$599,000 versus $389,000 for homes without. While the so-called “pandemic pool premium” has cooled, pools still remain a strong selling point in many markets, especially in warmer climates.
“During the pandemic, people were looking for ways to get more enjoyment out of their homes, and this surge in demand for features like pools translated into a substantial ‘pool premium,’ where homes featuring a pool commanded significantly higher asking prices compared to their pool-less counterparts,” says real estate expert Hannah Jones.
That premium peaked in early 2022, but it hasn’t disappeared.
“Although price premiums have normalized, the presence of a pool continues to drive a premium and be a popular item to include in listings as a home or community feature,” Jones adds.
The catch? Condition matters.
In other words, buying a home with a pool can add value—but only if it’s been well maintained. Even an older pool with updated equipment can absolutely increase buyer appeal and help a home sell faster. But a neglected pool—green water, broken or outdated equipment, visible damage—can have the opposite effect, turning buyers off or becoming a negotiation point that drags the price down.
Water Tech Corp, manufacturer of the popular Volt line of battery-powered handheld pool and spa vacuums, offers compact and versatile point-of-purchase displays designed to fit virtually anywhere on the retail floor.
Built from sturdy corrugated cardboard, the displays ship flat and assemble quickly — no tools required. Two configurations are available: one designed specifically for the Volt Leaf Vac and one showcasing the Volt FX-Series. Each display features dedicated product slots that invite customers to pick up and handle the units, letting the lightweight, easy-to-use design speak for itself.
Perfectly suited for checkout areas and high-traffic zones, the displays are built to drive impulse, cash-and-carry sales. Coordinating product boxes can be arranged around each display to create a cohesive, eye-catching retail presentation.
To find out how you could add one of these eye-catching, brightly colored displays to your retail store this season, contact [email protected].
City/State: E. Brunswick, NJ
Website: www.watertechcorp.com
Phone: 800-298-8800
Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/watertech_pros/#
https://www.facebook.com/watertechcorpNJ/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/watertechcorp/
https://www.youtube.com/user/TheWatertechCorp
About Water Tech Corp:
Water Tech Corp is the manufacturer of the original Pool Blaster handheld battery powered pool cleaner as well as the powerful Volt and Precision battery powered pool cleaners on the market today. Water Tech has been a part of the pool and spa industry now for 25 years after being founded by Guy Erlich in 2001 in an apartment building in New York City. Water Tech has always been focused on patented-technologies and designs that have allowed Water Tech to succeed in the very competitive pool and spa cleaner arena. With 19 different US patents on pool and spa cleaners alone and more to come, Water Tech has been able to use its intellectual property and unique product designs to systematically ensure its success in the marketplace. In fact, between 2005 and the present date, Water Tech has received the “Pool & Spa News & Readers’ Choice Award” for “Best New Product” approximately seven (7) times.
The company now operates out of a large facility in E. Brunswick, NJ with more than 20,000 square foot of space. Water Tech has a reputation for bringing innovative, reliable products to our industry, designed specifically to meet the needs of consumers, service professionals and retailers in the swimming pool and spa market.
A new innovation in pool maintenance is changing how technicians collect water samples for testing. The BackSaver2000, a newly developed water collection device, is designed to improve both sampling accuracy and workplace safety for pool professionals.
Traditionally, pool technicians collect water samples by kneeling or bending over the pool edge with a cup, a method that can lead to repeated strain on the back and knees. The BackSaver2000 eliminates this issue by allowing technicians to collect water easily while standing, significantly reducing the physical stress associated with the outdated conventional method.
Beyond ergonomics, the BackSaver2000 was scientifically tested to ensure the integrity of water samples. Results show that the device collects equal to or less surface water contamination compared to traditional collection methods, helping ensure more reliable water quality testing.
Designed specifically for the demands of the pool service industry, the BackSaver2000 combines a telescoping handle with a collapsible collection cup to make sampling faster, safer, and more efficient. By reducing repetitive strain injuries, companies can also benefit from fewer work-related injuries and potentially lower workers’ compensation claims.
The BackSaver2000 is poised to become an essential tool for pool technicians, offering a smarter and healthier way to collect water samples while maintaining testing accuracy.
For more information about the BackSaver2000, contact your local distributor or visit the product website: backsaver2000.com.
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