Explore The Latest Innovations in LED Pool Lighting - PoolMagazine.com - Get The Latest Pool News

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The world of pool lighting has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with the advent of LED technology leading the charge. This revolution in pool illumination is changing the way people use their swimming pools, making them more enjoyable, safer, and environmentally friendly.

LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology has become a game-changer in the pool lighting industry. Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs, LEDs are highly energy-efficient, long-lasting, and capable of producing a wide range of colors. These attributes make LED pool lighting an attractive option for pool owners looking to enhance their swimming experience.

One of the most significant impacts of LED pool lighting is the ability to create stunning visual effects. LED lights can change colors and produce dynamic light shows, transforming an ordinary pool into a captivating nighttime oasis. This feature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the pool but also makes nighttime swimming more enjoyable and inviting.

LED lights consume significantly less energy compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. This energy efficiency translates to lower electricity bills for pool owners and a reduced environmental footprint. Additionally, LED lights have a much longer lifespan, often lasting up to 50,000 hours or more. This longevity means fewer replacements and less maintenance, further contributing to cost savings and convenience.

The pool lighting industry is highly competitive, with manufacturers continuously striving to introduce new and improved products. As technology advances, customers’ expectations for their pool lighting systems also evolve. Today’s pool owners seek lighting solutions that offer more than just basic illumination. They want products that can create unique visual experiences, enhance safety, and be easily integrated into without an exorbitantly costly overhaul or renovation.

Among the leading innovators in the pool lighting industry, Pentair stands out with its IntelliBrite® Architectural Series Pool and Spa Lighting. This next-generation lighting solution is designed to elevate the nighttime pool experience, offering a blend of energy efficiency, brightness, and aesthetic appeal.

The IntelliBrite Architectural Series is touted as one of the most brilliant pool lighting innovations to hit the market. It provides evenly projected light, minimizing hot spots, dark areas, glare, and stripes. This even distribution of light creates a more dazzling and enjoyable nighttime pool experience that will wow pool owners and their guests.

Upgrading pool lighting can seem like a daunting task, but with IntelliBrite® Architectural Series Pool and Spa Lighting, it’s a straightforward and rewarding process. Whether you’re replacing outdated incandescent bulbs or first-generation LED lights, this upgrade can significantly enhance your pool’s ambiance and save you money on your electric bill.

The IntelliBrite Architectural Series White Pool Light is a remarkable leap in energy efficiency. It is 60% brighter and 80% more energy efficient than its predecessor. It’s also 12 times more energy efficient than incandescent lighting, consuming 94% less power. This makes them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice for pool owners looking to enhance their swimming pool experience. This substantial reduction in energy consumption translates to lower electricity bills and a greener, more sustainable pool environment.

Pairing the IntelliBrite Architectural Series Color Lights with the Color Sync™ Controller for Pentair Color LED Lights offers pool owners a fast, user-friendly way to light up the night. This combination allows for easy control and customization of your swimming pool lighting, matching the mood with five brilliant colors and seven dynamic color-changing light shows.

IntelliBrite Architectural Series lights can be easily controlled through a Pentair automation system and the Pentair Home app. This allows for instant ambiance adjustments and seamless integration. The ability to control the lighting remotely adds convenience and flexibility, making it easy to create the perfect atmosphere for any occasion.

When it comes to transforming a backyard pool from ordinary to extraordinary, few products achieve this as effectively as Hayward water features. One of the newest innovations to hit the market is a water bowl featuring vivid LED lights that seamlessly transition from dazzling color displays, Hayward’s LED water bowls and sheers allow pool owners to create a luxurious swimming environment that truly reflects their unique taste and style.

Hayward’s LED Water Bowls provide an unparalleled visual and sensory experience, enhancing any backyard setting. These elegant features are designed to be stunning visual centerpieces that create the perfect ambiance for relaxation and entertainment. They not only add a touch of elegance but also offer a range of sights, sounds, and sensations that enhance the overall pool experience.

Designed to fit seamlessly into any pool environment, their versatile design allows for easy integration with existing pool layouts, whether you have a modern, contemporary, or traditional aesthetic. The variety of finishes, including Tempered Glass, Brass, Copper, Bronze, Gray, Pewter, and Natural, ensures that there is a perfect match for every backyard style.

With the addition of OmniDirect Mode™, Hayward LED pool bulbs are optimized for use with Omni® automation systems, providing pool owners with more control and customization options than ever before.

Hayward’s LED water bowls and sheers are a great addition to their line of LED bubblers and laminars, providing pool owners with innovative solutions to enhance their backyard pools. These features not only elevate their visual appeal but also offer practical benefits such as energy efficiency, ease of use, and advanced automation capabilities.

Imagine stepping into your backyard on a warm evening and being greeted by a mesmerizing display of lights dancing beneath the surface of your pool. This enchanting scene isn’t just about the lights themselves but also about the sophisticated technology that powers them. At the heart of every beautifully lit pool lies an essential component: the pool transformer.

While often overlooked, the pool transformer is a critical player in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of your pool’s lighting system. Blue Square Manufacturing, a pioneer in pool equipment innovation, understands the importance of this component and is bringing new technology to the industry with their latest innovation in pool transformer technology that redefines performance and reliability.

Blue Square is not just keeping pace with industry trends; it’s setting them. Here’s how their pool light transformers stand out:

Blue Square’s Pool Light Transformers offer a clear advantage in terms of features and user-friendliness. With a wider range of voltage options, the ability to run both 13V and 15V fixtures, convenient quick-connect tabs, and a spacious wire housing, Blue Square provides the perfect solution for all your pool lighting needs.

The PAL Lighting EvenGlow Waterblade is a cutting-edge pool lighting solution that combines aesthetic appeal with advanced technology to transform any pool environment into a captivating visual experience. Designed to seamlessly blend into your poolscape, the EvenGlow Waterblade offers a unique combination of a sleek water feature and vibrant LED lighting, setting it apart as a revolutionary product in the pool lighting market.

At the heart of the EvenGlow Waterblade is its innovative design, which integrates a smooth, continuous flow of water with brilliant LED illumination. The Waterblade is available in various sizes, including 1-foot, 2-foot, 4-foot, and custom lengths, making it versatile enough to fit any pool configuration. Its rear feed design ensures easy installation and a clean appearance, while the 6-inch lip allows the water to cascade gracefully into the pool, creating a dazzling waterfall effect.

The EvenGlow Waterblade features state-of-the-art multi-color LED technology, offering an array of vibrant colors and dynamic lighting effects. The LEDs are capable of producing millions of colors, allowing users to customize their pool lighting to match any mood or occasion. With simple controls, pool owners can easily switch between different lighting modes, including steady colors, color fades, and pulsating patterns, adding a dynamic and lively atmosphere to any pool party or relaxing evening swim.

Jandy has redefined pool lighting with their revolutionary Infinite WaterColors™ LED Lights, providing pool owners with an unparalleled level of customization. These innovative lights offer an extensive array of colors, surpassing the limitations of traditional pool lighting options.

Traditional color pool lights typically offer a limited selection of primary colors. In contrast, Jandy’s Infinite WaterColors™ present a comprehensive spectrum of shades, complemented by 10 preset colors and five dynamic light shows. This groundbreaking technology eradicates the need for color “cycling,” allowing for instantaneous color changes via the iAquaLink® app or voice commands through Alexa.

A standout feature of Infinite WaterColors™ LED Lights is their advanced dimming capability. This allows pool owners to adjust the brightness of their pool lights without compromising visibility, setting a new benchmark for lighting customization in the pool industry.

“Jandy’s Infinite WaterColors LED Lights set a new standard of lighting for the swimming pool industry,” said Megan Helms, product manager of lighting and water features. “We’re giving pool owners more ways to personalize their pools with the ability to pick any color they can imagine; it’s a level of customization that was previously unavailable. The possibilities are endless.”

Enhancing the backyard ambiance further, these lights feature cutting-edge color zoning technology. This innovation enables the creation of custom color schemes by grouping lights into four distinct zones, each capable of displaying a different color.

The Jandy Infinite WaterColors™ LED Lights are available in both niched and nicheless models and are compatible with the Jandy AquaLink® RS automation systems for seamless operation via the iAquaLink app.

In line with Fluidra’s Trade Series Exclusive Policy, the Infinite Lighting lineup is sold exclusively through brick-and-mortar dealers and is not available for online resale. Pool professionals are encouraged to contact their local Fluidra representative for more information.

Thank you for checking in with Pool Magazine to discover the latest innovations in LED pool lighting. We hope this exploration of cutting-edge products from today’s leading manufacturers has inspired you to elevate your pool experience. These incredible advancements are transforming the way we illuminate our pools. Stay tuned to Pool Magazine for more updates and insights on enhancing your swimming and outdoor living space.

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Editor in Chief of Pool Magazine - Joe Trusty is also CEO of PoolMarketing.com, the leading digital agency for the pool industry. An internet entrepreneur, software developer, author, and marketing professional with a long history in the pool industry. Joe oversees the writing and creative staff at Pool Magazine.To contact Joe Trusty email [email protected] or call (916) 467-9118 during normal business hours. For submissions, please send your message to [email protected]

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Keeping your pool sparkling clean doesn’t have to break the bank. Robotic pool cleaners have become more advanced and affordable, making it easier than ever to maintain a debris-free swimming pool without the hassle of manual cleaning. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly model for basic maintenance or a feature-packed unit with smart navigation and wall-climbing capabilities, there are excellent options available under $1,000.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top ten robotic pool cleaners that offer the best performance, reliability, and value for the price. From powerful suction to energy-efficient operation, these cleaners provide a hands-free solution for pool owners who want a pristine swimming experience without the high costs of professional cleaning services.

The Polaris F9450 Sport Robotic Pool Cleaner is a high-performance, feature-rich option that delivers efficient and thorough pool cleaning. Designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet, this cleaner boasts 4-wheel drive (4WD) technology, allowing it to navigate over obstacles, climb walls, and scrub tile lines with ease. Its Vortex Vacuum Technology ensures powerful suction, capturing large debris without losing performance, while the ActivMotion Sensor enhances navigation for optimized cleaning coverage.

The Polaris F9450 also includes a programmable 7-day timer, making it easy to schedule automatic cleanings. With a large top-access filter canister, removing debris is simple—just shake and spray for hassle-free maintenance. The F9450 features excellent energy efficiency and performance, making it a standout choice on our list of best robotic pool cleaners under $1,000.

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One of the best robotic pool cleaners under $1,000 is the WYBOT S2 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner. The S2 is a powerful, tangle-free solution designed for in-ground and above-ground pools. Equipped with triple powerful motors and a dual-layer filtration system (180μm + cotton foam), it efficiently removes dirt, leaves, and fine debris while covering floors, walls, and waterlines. Its 7,800mAh lithium-ion battery provides up to 3.5 hours of continuous cleaning, with a quick three-hour recharge time.

Users can control the cleaner through touch buttons or a mobile app, which offers multiple cleaning modes and six customizable cleaning paths. The smart navigation system ensures optimized coverage, but some users have noted occasional app connectivity issues and inconsistent auto-docking in irregularly shaped pools. Despite these minor drawbacks, the WYBOT S2 delivers strong suction, reliable performance, and an energy-efficient design, making it a solid choice for hassle-free pool maintenance.

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​The Aiper Scuba S1 Pro is a cordless robotic pool cleaner designed to efficiently maintain swimming pools by cleaning floors, walls, and waterlines. It features dual active PVC rollers and a quad-brushless motor system, enhancing its scrubbing and suction capabilities. The device boasts a runtime of up to 180 minutes, suitable for pools up to 2,150 square feet. Its advanced navigation system ensures thorough coverage, and the inclusion of a 3-micron ultra-fine filter allows for effective removal of fine debris such as algae and silt. Additionally, the Scuba S1 Pro offers app integration, enabling users to monitor and control cleaning modes remotely.

User experiences with the Scuba S1 Pro vary. Some users have praised its robust build, enhanced features, and app integration, noting that it provides a hassle-free cleaning experience. However, others have reported challenges, such as the device getting stuck and requiring manual intervention. Additionally, some users have expressed concerns about the device’s durability over time.

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The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a popular robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet in length. It offers efficient cleaning of both the pool floor and walls, utilizing CleverClean™ smart navigation to ensure comprehensive coverage. The cleaner features a top-loading filtration system, allowing easy access to fine filters that capture debris effectively.

Users can schedule cleanings using the MyDolphin™ Plus mobile app, providing convenient control over maintenance routines. However, it’s important to note that the Nautilus CC Plus does not perform waterline scrubbing, which means the area where the pool water meets the walls may require manual cleaning. Additionally, while it excels in removing larger debris, its standard filters may not capture finer particles like algae as effectively as models equipped with advanced filtration systems. Despite these limitations, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus remains a reliable and user-friendly option for maintaining clean pool surfaces.

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​The Dolphin Liberty 200 is a cordless robotic pool cleaner designed for both in-ground and above-ground pools up to 33 feet in length. Weighing approximately 18 pounds, it features a 1.5-hour cleaning cycle that effectively scrubs pool floors and walls, though it does not clean the waterline. The Liberty 200 utilizes CleverClean™ navigation technology to map and navigate the pool efficiently, avoiding obstacles and ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Its Magnetic-Connect system simplifies charging, allowing for easy attachment of the inductive charging cable. The top-loading filter basket is accessible and designed to capture various debris types, though it lacks NanoFiltration™, which means it may not capture the smallest particles. While the cordless design offers enhanced mobility and eliminates cord tangling, users should note the 1.5-hour runtime per charge, followed by a required charging period. Overall, the Dolphin Liberty 200 provides a convenient, cordless solution for maintaining clean pool surfaces, with considerations regarding its charging needs and filtration capabilities.​

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​The WYBOT S1 SE is a high-end, cordless robotic pool cleaner designed to efficiently maintain various pool surfaces, including floors, walls, steps, and waterlines. Equipped with triple powerful motors and two robust roller brushes, it effectively captures dirt, sand, leaves, and debris, ensuring a comprehensive cleaning experience. The device offers a runtime of up to 200 minutes and features a quick 2.5-hour recharge time, minimizing downtime between cleaning sessions.

Users can customize cleaning modes and schedules through the WYBOT app, which provides six different cleaning paths to cater to specific pool needs. Advanced gyroscopes and depth sensors enable intelligent navigation, allowing the robot to plan efficient cleaning paths and avoid obstacles. Its ability to climb pool walls, including tiles, without falling enhances its cleaning coverage, leaving the pool’s vertical surfaces spotless. Overall, the WYBOT S1 SE combines powerful cleaning capabilities with smart technology to deliver a thorough and user-friendly pool maintenance solution.

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​The 2025 Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner is engineered to deliver efficient and thorough cleaning for above-ground pools. Equipped with dual 24-volt DC motors, it operates on just 180 watts, making it highly energy-efficient and costing approximately 5 cents per hour to run. The HyperBrush™ active scrubbing system spins twice as fast as standard brushes, effectively dislodging stubborn contaminants from the pool floor.

Its SmartNav 2.0™ technology enables intelligent mapping and navigation, ensuring comprehensive coverage without redundant paths. The top-loading MaxBin™ filtration system boasts a 50% larger capacity than standard filters, simplifying debris removal and maintenance. Additionally, the HyperGrip™ rubber tracks provide superior traction on various pool surfaces, enhancing maneuverability and cleaning efficiency. Weighing 14.2 pounds and featuring a plug-and-play design, the Dolphin Escape offers user-friendly operation and storage. While it excels at cleaning pool floors, it does not climb walls or clean the waterline.

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​The Polaris NEO is a robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools, offering advanced features to ensure comprehensive cleaning. It adeptly navigates various pool surfaces, including walls and steps, and effectively scrubs the waterline for a thorough clean. Equipped with Cyclonic Vacuum Technology, the NEO maintains strong suction throughout the cleaning cycle, capturing debris without loss of performance.

Its oversized intake area allows it to effortlessly collect larger debris such as leaves and twigs, leaving the pool clean and debris-free. The Push’N’Go® filter canister simplifies debris removal—users can empty it with a simple shake and spray, avoiding direct contact with the collected debris. Additionally, the Surface Control System™ enables adjustments to optimize wall climbing based on the pool’s surface, enhancing its adaptability to different pool finishes. With a cleaning cycle as short as 1.5 hours, the Polaris NEO ensures efficient and effective pool maintenance.

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The Niya Sonar 50 is a cordless robotic pool cleaner introduced by Maytronics, the creators of the renowned Dolphin series. Designed for both in-ground and above-ground pools up to 40 feet in length, this device offers comprehensive cleaning capabilities, targeting the pool floor, walls, and waterline. Its advanced sonar-powered navigation system ensures efficient coverage by mapping the pool’s layout and optimizing cleaning paths. Equipped with a high-capacity battery, the Sonar 50 delivers up to 2.5 hours of continuous operation, allowing it to handle extensive cleaning tasks without frequent recharging.

Users can select from multiple cleaning modes—default (floor and walls), floor-only, or wall-only—tailoring the cleaning process to specific needs. Additionally, the device is Bluetooth-enabled, permitting control and customization through a dedicated mobile app. Customer feedback has been largely positive, highlighting its powerful suction, ease of cleaning, and overall value for money. However, some users have noted challenges with coverage in complex pool shapes and occasional navigation issues. Overall, the Niya Sonar 50 makes our list of best robotic pool cleaners under $1,000 because it stands out as a versatile and efficient solution for maintaining a pristine pool environment on a budget.

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Rounding out our list of best robotic pool cleaners under $1,000 is the Betta SE Solar-Powered Robotic Pool Skimmer. The Betta SE is an innovative device designed to maintain pool cleanliness by automatically removing debris from the water’s surface. Operating entirely on solar energy, it utilizes high-capacity lithium batteries charged through efficient solar panels, ensuring continuous operation without the need for manual recharging. Equipped with re-engineered twin Salt Chlorine Tolerant (SCT) motors, the Betta SE effectively collects various floating debris, including leaves, dust, pollen, dead insects, and pet hair. Its Aqua Dynamics design allows for over 30 hours of uninterrupted cleaning on a single charge, even in less sunny conditions.

With intelligent navigation, the Betta SE can maneuver smoothly across the pool, avoiding obstacles and preventing it from getting stuck in corners or shallow areas. The large fine-mesh (200-micron) debris basket makes emptying the collected debris simple and mess-free, reducing maintenance efforts for pool owners. Additionally, the skimmer operates silently, making it a discreet and efficient alternative to traditional pool cleaning methods. Users have reported that the Betta SE significantly reduces manual skimming time, allowing them to enjoy cleaner water without frequent intervention. While some have noted minor issues with wind affecting its movement, the overall consensus is that this solar-powered skimmer provides exceptional performance, energy efficiency, and cost savings over time. Its eco-friendly, cordless design eliminates the need for external power sources, making it an excellent investment for pool owners looking for a sustainable and hassle-free cleaning solution.

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Investing in a robotic pool cleaner can save time and effort while keeping your pool crystal clear. If you’re shopping for one under $1,000, there are several key factors to consider.

First, think about your pool type and size. Some robotic cleaners are designed specifically for in-ground pools, while others work better for above-ground pools. It’s also important to check the recommended pool size, as many budget-friendly models are best suited for pools up to 30-40 feet, while more powerful options can handle larger areas.

Cleaning performance is another crucial factor. A good robotic cleaner should have strong suction and durable scrubbing brushes to remove debris, algae, and fine dirt effectively. Some models only clean the pool floor, while others can climb walls and scrub waterlines for a more thorough clean. Navigation technology is also worth considering, as smart mapping or gyroscopic systems can improve efficiency by ensuring full pool coverage.

Filtration quality plays a big role in keeping your pool water clean. A fine-mesh filter is essential if you want to trap small particles like sand and silt. Larger filter baskets are also a great feature since they reduce the need for frequent emptying.

When choosing between a corded or cordless model, consider convenience and power. Cordless models offer tangle-free operation but usually have a shorter battery life, typically lasting around 1.5 to 2 hours per charge. On the other hand, corded models provide continuous power but may require more setup due to cable management.

Ease of use and maintenance should also factor into your decision. A lightweight design makes it easier to remove the cleaner from the pool, and a top-load filter system simplifies cleaning. Some models come with app or remote control capabilities, allowing you to customize cleaning cycles and monitor performance effortlessly.

Choosing the right robotic pool cleaner depends on your pool’s size, cleaning needs, and preference for corded or cordless operation. Prioritizing efficiency, durability, and ease of maintenance will help you get the best value for your investment while keeping your pool sparkling clean with minimal effort.

Seven “Larger Than Life” Pool Industry Professionals to be Recognized in Award Ceremony

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[LONDON, January 8, 2025] — Pentair Pool, a global leader in sustainable pool solutions, is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 Pentair Pool Pro Awards. Winners will be celebrated at a special ceremony at the Pool and Spa Show in Atlantic City, New Jersey. This year’s award theme, “Larger Than Life,” honors the remarkable contributions of pool professionals who make every pool experience safe, enjoyable, and effortless.

The awards recognized seven outstanding individuals for their exceptional expertise and dedication to the pool industry. The winners are:

– Pro Award: Keith Smith, Head of Renovations at Collins Pool Management

– Pro Award: Amber Gardner, Director of Client Services at Heritage Pools

– Lifetime Achievement Award: Jacob Fladhammer, Owner of Emerald Pools and Spas

– Emerging Leader Award: Anthony Basilicato, Regional Vice President at Pool Troopers

– Advancing Technology Award: Joe Dempsey, CEO at Aquality Construction

– Safety Advocate Award: Dan Dumas, Director of Global Business Development at My Aquatic Services

– Pleatco Pioneer Award: Salvador Hernández, Owner of Piscinas Itzi

“We are thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these pool professionals,” said Greg Claffey, President and Chief Revenue Officer, Pentair Pool. “The impact of the work of these individuals on the industry as a whole as well as pool owners is truly worth celebrating. Their inspiring stories of success, hard work, tenacity, and growth are a testament to the strength of our industry.”

The Pro Award Winners received an exciting prize package, including travel accommodations for the 2025 Atlantic City Pool & Spa Show, a personalized excursion hosted by Pentair Pool, and enrollment in a GENESIS®/PHTA training course, among other special recognitions to highlight their achievements in the industry.

“The Pentair Pool Pro Awards recognizes the hardworking and dedicated pool professionals who truly raise the caliber of our industry,” said Sabeena Hickman, CAE, President and CEO of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA). “PHTA and GENESIS® are honored to co-sponsor this award and play a role

in supporting the winners’ career progression by offering free access to continuing industry education and certification. Congratulations to all!”

“Recognizing these exceptional pool and spa service technicians is a true honor,” said Scott Webb, editor of AQUA Magazine. “Their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation sets a high standard for excellence in our industry. Alongside PHTA and Pentair Pool, we are proud to celebrate their achievements and dedication to advancing the pool and spa community.”

Attendees to the Atlantic City Pool and Spa Show can visit the Pentair Pool Booth on Wed., Jan. 29 at 4 p.m. EST for a public celebration of these winners.

For more information on the winners and their contributions, please visit www.pentair.com/pool-pro-awards or www.facebook.com/pentairpool to see highlights at the upcoming celebration in Atlantic City

About Pentair Pool

At Pentair, we help the world safely and sustainably move, improve, and enjoy water, life’s most essential resource. From our residential and business solutions to industrial water management and everything in between, Pentair is focused on smart, sustainable water solutions that help our planet and people thrive.

As an industry leader in the pool and spa space, Pentair Pool is driven to help people sustainably enjoy water. Our solutions include industry-leading pumps, automation, lighting, heating, and filtration technology that help our customers enjoy a smarter and more sustainable pool. Customer success is at the heart of our vision for bringing family and friends together in the pool and on the deck to build social connections, create lifelong memories, and help promote fitness and enjoyment. For more information, visit www.pentair.com/poolandspa.

A broken pool heater is at the center of a tenant’s $154,000 lawsuit against their previous landlord.

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A broken pool heater has escalated into a heated legal battle, as a couple renting a high-end home in White Plains filed a $154,000 lawsuit against the property owner over unresolved pool problems.

Sara and Aaron Kaplan, the tenants, allege that Taylor Howard, a Plano, Texas resident, failed to uphold the terms of their lease, according to a complaint filed in Westchester Supreme Court.

“The promise of a heated outdoor pool was particularly important to the Kaplans’ decision to execute the lease agreement and move into the property,” the complaint asserts. “Without the amenity, the Kaplans never would have agreed to lease the property at all, let alone for $11,500 a month.”

Howard’s attorney, John A. Sarcone III, told reporters the claims is baseless. “My client complied with what was required to be corrected,” Sarcone stated via email. “This lawsuit is frivolous.”

The dispute centers on a classic brick colonial home located on Rosedale Avenue near Maple Moor Golf Course. The property features five bedrooms and four baths and was purchased by Howard in 2018 for $1.2 million. Today, its estimated value exceeds $2 million, according to Zillow.

The Kaplans entered a 13-month lease beginning June 1, 2023, but claim that numerous issues were apparent from the start. Among their complaints were a broken pool heater, damaged walls, chipped paint, broken closets, missing door and window screens, and a rusted backyard swing set.

The Kaplans assert that Howard and his property management company promised immediate repairs to the pool, which was central to their decision to rent the home. However, by September 2023, the heating system for the pool was still not operational, prompting the couple to withhold rent payments.

The couple filed a lawsuit against Howard in November 2023, seeking $34,000 for the loss of the pool’s use during the summer and $100,000 to cover relocation costs to another property with a functional pool.

In response, Howard countersued for unpaid rent in White Plains City Court. Both parties reached a settlement in January 2024, where Judge John P. Collins Jr. issued an eviction warrant but delayed its enforcement until after the lease expired in July. As part of the agreement, the Kaplans paid $57,500 in back rent, and Howard agreed to address several repairs.

The Kaplans now contend that many of the promised repairs were never completed and argue that the pool, a key feature of their lease, remained unusable throughout their tenancy. According to their complaint, the pool later developed leaks, became unsanitary, and even housed dead rodents for weeks.

“Time has made clear that defendants never intended to fulfill their lease agreement or settlement agreement obligations,” the complaint alleges.

The Kaplans are demanding $154,000 in damages for breach of contract.

Sarcone, Howard’s attorney, maintains that the current lawsuit rehashes settled claims. He emphasized that the previous lawsuits were dismissed with prejudice, barring the Kaplans from making the same claims again.

“They mask the same claims with allegations almost a year later that my client did not comply with the terms of the stipulation from the City Court,” Sarcone stated.

He further criticized the latest filing, saying, “My client shall also seek sanctions for frivolous conduct,” accusing the Kaplans of reviving allegations they had already agreed to drop after “getting their proverbial asses handed to them for breach of the lease agreement.”

The legal battle now hinges on whether the Kaplans’ new allegations represent distinct grievances or an impermissible attempt to revisit resolved disputes.

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