Upgrading an older pool automation system can make a pool easier to operate, but automation compatibility is highly equipment-specific. A successful upgrade needs to account for the existing control panel, pool-and-spa configuration, number of relays, pumps, heater, salt system, lights, valve actuators, water features, electrical load center, and communication requirements.
This guide explains what information to collect before choosing a Pentair, Jandy, Hayward, or other pool automation upgrade.
1. Identify the Existing Automation System
Take photos of the outside and inside of the control panel. Record the manufacturer, system name, model number, circuit-board part number, indoor controller model if present, wireless antenna or interface, and any expansion panels.
Older systems may have multiple generations that look similar from the outside but require different upgrade kits or replacement boards.
2. Pool Only or Pool & Spa?
Automation requirements are different for a single-body pool and a shared-equipment pool-and-spa combination. A pool/spa system usually needs valve actuators to switch suction and return plumbing, heater control, spa-mode programming, and additional auxiliary functions.
3. Count the Relays and Controlled Equipment
Make a list of everything currently controlled by the panel: filtration pump, booster pump, spa blower, heater, lights, landscape lighting, water features, fountain pumps, salt system, valves, and other loads. Count the installed relays and note any empty relay positions.
This helps determine whether you need a smaller control system or a larger panel with additional auxiliary capacity.
4. Identify the Pool Pump
Modern variable-speed pumps often communicate digitally with compatible automation rather than being controlled only by a high-voltage relay. Record the exact pump model and manufacturer. Cross-brand communication can be limited, so pump choice matters when planning an automation upgrade.
5. Identify the Heater
Most automation systems can control compatible heaters through a remote-enable or fireman's-switch connection, while some equipment supports deeper digital communication. Provide the heater manufacturer and model when evaluating an upgrade.
6. Check the Salt System
If the pool uses a salt chlorine generator, identify the cell and power/control equipment. Some automation systems integrate directly with matching-brand salt systems, while others operate independently.
7. Pool Lights and Transformers
Lighting compatibility can be one of the most overlooked parts of an automation upgrade. Record the manufacturer and model of each pool and spa light, voltage, transformer, and how color changes are currently controlled. Some lighting systems require power cycling, while others use dedicated controllers or communication.
8. Valve Actuators
Pool/spa combinations and water features often use motorized valve actuators. Count the actuators and identify what each valve controls. Some upgrades include actuators while others do not.
Pentair Automation Upgrades
Pentair systems include IntelliCenter along with older EasyTouch and IntelliTouch platforms. Depending on the existing equipment, there may be upgrade kits that retain portions of the existing load center while modernizing controls and connectivity.
Browse Pentair Automation.
Jandy Automation Upgrades
Jandy automation includes AquaLink and iAquaLink platforms. Board generation, power center type, number of auxiliaries, and antenna/interface compatibility are important when selecting an upgrade.
Browse Jandy Automation.
Hayward Automation Upgrades
Hayward automation includes OmniLogic, OmniPL, OmniHub, and related controls. Equipment compatibility and system capacity should be evaluated before selecting the platform.
Browse Hayward Automation.
Upgrade Kit or Complete Panel Replacement?
An upgrade kit may be a good fit when the existing enclosure and load center are serviceable and the manufacturer offers a supported upgrade path. Complete replacement may be preferable when the existing system is obsolete, heavily damaged, undersized, or incompatible with the equipment you plan to install.
What to Send Us for Automation Help
- Photos of the inside and outside of the control panel
- Panel/system model number
- Circuit-board part number
- Pool-only or pool-and-spa configuration
- Number of relays
- Pump manufacturer and model
- Heater manufacturer and model
- Salt system model
- Pool and spa light models and voltage
- Number of valve actuators
- Water features and additional pumps
- Current wireless or app interface
Need Help Upgrading Pool Automation?
Browse all Pool Automation Systems or visit our Pool Automation Upgrades & Control System Replacement page. Pool Supply Depot can help identify compatible equipment and provide pricing for automation systems, upgrade kits, boards, relays, actuators, sensors, and related components.
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