What I look for
Pool equipment lasts 10-15 years then needs replacement. Here are the 8 picks for California pool owners.
The picks
1. Pentair IntelliFlo Variable Speed Pump
Best pool pump overall. CA-compliant variable speed.
View on Amazon →2. Hayward H400FDN Natural Gas Pool Heater
Best gas pool heater.
View on Amazon →3. Polaris 9550 Sport Robotic Pool Cleaner
Premium robotic cleaner.
View on Amazon →4. Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner
Best Dolphin. Reliable.
View on Amazon →5. Hayward AquaRite Salt Chlorinator
Best salt water conversion.
View on Amazon →6. Pentair MasterTemp 400 Pool Heater
Mid-range heater.
View on Amazon →7. Hayward Super Pump 2HP Single Speed
Budget pool pump (where allowed).
View on Amazon →8. Pool Stabilizer Cyanuric Acid 5lb
California summer chlorine stabilizer.
View on Amazon →Installer note: Need this professionally installed in California? Book Zomg The Handyman →
Frequently asked questions
Best pool pump for California?
Pentair IntelliFlo Variable Speed — only variable-speed pumps are legal for new pool installs in California.
Salt water vs chlorine pool?
Salt water for lower long-term chemical cost, gentler on skin. Chlorine for traditional simplicity.
How long does pool equipment last?
Pump: 8-12 years. Heater: 10-15 years. Robotic cleaner: 5-8 years.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Zomg The Handyman earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we'd install for paying clients.
Need this installed in California?
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