Pool Equipment Experts in Austin, TX

For decades, the standard pool pump was a single-speed induction motor. It had two modes: "off" and "full power." While effective at moving water, these units are notorious energy hogs, often representing the second-largest consumer of electricity in a home after the air conditioning system. Upgrading to a variable-speed pump (VSP) changes the game entirely. These pumps utilize a permanent magnet motor—similar to the technology found in electric cars—which allows them to operate at different speeds.

The physics of water flow dictates that if you cut the speed of the pump in half, you use one-eighth of the power. By programming the pump to run at a lower RPM for most of the day (just enough to keep water circulating and filtering), you can significantly reduce your monthly utility bill. Many homeowners see the pump pay for itself in energy savings within the first two years. Beyond the financial benefits, VSPs are significantly quieter. You no longer have to listen to the loud hum of a motor running at 3450 RPMs while you try to relax by the pool. At Aruba Pools, we can analyze your current plumbing and flow requirements to program a VSP that maximizes savings without compromising your water clarity or the function of features like skimmers and cleaners.

Absolutely. Many pool owners mistakenly believe that automation is a luxury reserved only for brand-new, high-end builds. However, we frequently retrofit existing "dumb" equipment pads with modern, intelligent control centers. We can install a central processor that acts as the brain of your pool, connecting to your pumps, heaters, lights, and even motorized valves. This system then communicates with your home Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control it via a smartphone app.

This upgrade transforms the ownership experience. Instead of walking out to the equipment pad in the dark or rain to flip a switch for the spa, you can turn it on from your phone before you even leave work, ensuring it is hot and bubbly by the time you get home. It also simplifies maintenance; you can set schedules for your lights and filtration cycles, or activate a "cleanup mode" after a storm without manually adjusting valves. We can also integrate these systems with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home. If you have an older pool in Round Rock or Austin, adding automation is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to increase convenience and usability.

Selecting a heater involves more than just picking a brand; it requires analyzing how you plan to use your pool and the fuel sources available at your home. The two primary options are gas heaters (natural gas or propane) and electric heat pumps. Gas heaters are the powerhouse of the industry. They heat water very quickly and can maintain high temperatures regardless of the weather outside. If you have a spa that you want to heat up rapidly on a cold night, or if you only heat your pool occasionally for weekend parties, gas is often the superior choice.

On the other hand, electric heat pumps operate differently. They don't generate heat; they capture heat from the ambient air and transfer it into the water, functioning like a reverse air conditioner. They are incredibly energy-efficient and cost much less to operate than gas heaters, but they rely on the outside air temperature. They are fantastic for maintaining a comfortable swimming temperature consistently throughout the spring and fall in Central Texas, but they struggle when temperatures drop near freezing. At Aruba Pools, we assess your gas line availability, electrical capacity, and swimming habits to recommend the unit that will deliver the best performance and value.

Swimming pool equipment sits at the dangerous intersection of electricity and water. A pump or heater that is wired incorrectly is not just a nuisance; it is a potentially lethal safety hazard. Stray electrical current in the water can cause shock or worse. This is why the state of Texas requires specific licensing for electrical work on pools. Aruba Pools is fully licensed and insured, operating under license TICL #1114. This license confirms our understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements for grounding, bonding, and GFCI protection.

Beyond safety, professional installation is often a requirement for warranty coverage. Major manufacturers of pumps, filters, and heaters frequently shorten or void their warranties if the equipment is installed by a homeowner or an unlicensed handyman. They know that improper installation is the leading cause of premature failure. By hiring a certified professional, you ensure that your expensive equipment is set up according to strict manufacturer specifications. We ensure that the plumbing is sized correctly to prevent cavitation, the electrical supply is stable, and the unit has sufficient clearance for proper airflow. We protect your investment by doing the job legally, safely, and correctly the first time.

 The "best" filter often depends on your specific maintenance preferences and water clarity goals. There are three main types: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE). Sand filters are the lowest-maintenance option, but they filter down to the largest particle size (20-40 microns). Cartridge filters are very popular in our area because they conserve water (no backwashing required) and filter down to about 10-15 microns, providing excellent clarity. DE filters offer the finest filtration (down to 3-5 microns) for "polish-quality" water but require the most hands-on maintenance.

Regardless of the type, no filter lasts forever. Cartridges typically need to be replaced every 3 to 5 years as the fabric fibers break down and trap less dirt. Sand in a sand filter typically needs to be replaced every 5 to 7 years because the rough edges of the sand grains wear smooth, losing their ability to capture debris. If you notice that your water pressure stays high even after cleaning, or if the water remains cloudy despite good chemical balance, it is likely time for a replacement. As a "one-stop shop", we can inspect your current filter housing for cracks or manifold damage and recommend whether a simple media change or a full unit replacement is the most cost-effective solution for your pool.