By Downunda Pools – Pools for the Mind, Body and Soul
In the heart of Texas, where outdoor living is a lifestyle, swimming pools have evolved far beyond concrete and chlorine. Today’s homeowners want more than just a place to cool off — they want smart, efficient, and beautiful poolscapes that integrate the latest in technology. As a leading Houston pool builder, Downunda Pools is at the forefront of this transformation, offering modern innovations that elevate your backyard into a high-tech oasis.
From automated controls and LED lighting to energy-efficient pumps and intelligent water management systems, this guide dives into the technologies redefining pool ownership. We’ll also compare two of the industry’s top brands — Pentair vs. Jandy — to help you make informed choices without the sales pitch.
Imagine adjusting your pool's temperature, lighting, jets, or water features from your smartphone — even when you're not home. Pool automation systems have made this not only possible but standard in modern pool design.
Key Benefits of Pool Automation:
Convenience: Control everything from a central hub or app.
Efficiency: Schedule heating or filtration during off-peak hours.
Peace of Mind: Monitor and manage your pool remotely.
Smart Automation Features Include:
Pump and heater scheduling
Spa mode toggling
Light color and brightness adjustment
Chemical monitoring and balancing
Pentair IntelliCenter vs. Jandy iAquaLink:
Both are excellent, but with nuanced strengths:
Pentair IntelliCenter is known for its intuitive touchscreen interface and seamless smart home integration (including Alexa).
Jandy iAquaLink excels with a user-friendly mobile app and compatibility across multiple platforms.
➡️ Explore how we incorporate automation into our custom pool designs.
Lighting does more than keep your pool visible — it creates atmosphere. And with today’s LED technology, you can achieve stunning effects without high energy costs.
Why LED Lighting Is a Must-Have:
Energy Efficiency: Uses up to 80% less electricity than halogen.
Custom Colors & Scenes: Set the mood with colors that shift for parties, relaxation, or night swimming.
Longevity: LEDs can last 10+ years with minimal maintenance.
Downunda Pro Tip: Integrating lighting into waterfalls, steps, and landscaping creates a dramatic nighttime effect — and enhances safety.
➡️ See examples in our residential portfolio.
The tech-savvy homeowner loves smart pool systems — and for good reason. These setups combine automation with intelligent diagnostics and water chemistry control.
Smart Control Features Include:
Real-time chemical monitoring (pH, chlorine)
Automatic alerts and service notifications
Voice assistant compatibility (Alexa, Google Home)
Integration with home security and irrigation systems
Brand Showdown: Pentair vs. Jandy
Pentair ScreenLogic: Great for homeowners already using smart home systems. Offers deeper customization.
Jandy AquaLink RS: Simpler setup, frequent firmware updates, and excellent tech support.
Both brands support saltwater systems and advanced diagnostics — a win for reliability and water quality.
At the heart of every pool is the pump — and with rising energy costs, efficiency is more important than ever. Variable speed pumps (VSPs) are quickly becoming the gold standard for smart pool owners.
Advantages of Variable Speed Pumps:
Reduced energy bills (up to 90% savings)
Longer equipment life
Quieter operation
Compliance with DOE energy standards
Pentair IntelliFlo vs. Jandy VS FloPro:
IntelliFlo: Known for its ultra-quiet motor and programmable speeds. Integrates well with Pentair's automation systems.
VS FloPro: Offers tool-free installation and energy calculators to optimize savings.
➡️ Want a more energy-efficient pool? Visit our pool renovation services to learn how we upgrade older systems.
At Downunda, we believe that smart technology should enhance the pool’s design — not dominate it. Every automation panel, lighting setup, and pump system is integrated seamlessly into your aesthetic.
Design-First, Tech-Enhanced Approach Includes:
Hidden panels and control hubs
Subtle lighting placements that enhance water features
Low-profile pumps and heaters that blend into landscaping
Smart irrigation and drainage to protect pool integrity
➡️ Discover our approach to landscape design and integration.
Choosing a Houston pool builder is more than just finding a contractor — it’s about choosing a partner who stays ahead of the curve. Here’s why tech-savvy homeowners trust Downunda Pools:
✅ Experienced in advanced automation systems
✅ Certified Pentair and Jandy installers
✅ Designs that integrate tech and beauty seamlessly
✅ Transparent consultations with future-ready solutions
Our philosophy — Pools for the Mind, Body and Soul — reflects our commitment to creating pools that not only function brilliantly but also uplift your everyday life.
Technology has transformed how we build, use, and enjoy swimming pools. Whether you’re building new or upgrading an existing space, automation, smart controls, and energy-efficient systems are no longer “extras” — they’re essentials.
At Downunda Pools, we combine visionary design with cutting-edge pool tech to craft exceptional experiences for Houston homeowners. Let's build smarter, better, and more beautiful pools — together.