A better pool and spa setup from the ground up

Practicing good pool safety habits goes beyond keeping a watchful eye when friends and family enjoy the water. In fact, pool safety is something that can be built into any outdoor pool and spa setup from the ground up.

Important design features, such as fences, gates and non-slip surfaces help prevent dangerous situations. However, the opportunity doesn’t stop there. By installing pool components that promote a safe swimming environment, homeowners can improve their pool experience and ensure everybody’s well-being.

One great example of this is by keeping pool-adjacent electrical outlets protected with code-compliant outdoor weatherproof covers. Intermatic’s new Low-Profile Expandable In-Use Weatherproof Covers provide dependable protection against the elements and can be secured when not in use. What’s more, their slim, low-profile design is a simple way to improve outdoor aesthetics.

Where Should Customers Install a Low-Profile In-Use Cover?

Low-profile covers are a sleek, stylish alternative to traditional weatherproof cover options. They’re easy to install and provide a form-fitting upgrade to any pool panel, patio, lanai or outdoor kitchen, in addition to other outdoor residential applications.

Because most homeowners don’t need to leave their outdoor electronic appliances and devices, such as audio equipment, fans and blenders, plugged in for days at a time, having the ability to collapse the cover when not in use is a major plus. Whether bringing out an air compressor to inflate a new batch of pool toys or a flat-screen TV to catch the big game, our latest solution offers a discreet alternative with a fresh, modern look.

Common applications for low-profile in-use covers include:

• Pool panels
• Pool pads and slabs
• Lanais
• Outdoor kitchens
• Patios and pool decks
• Gazebos

Keep Outlets Secure with Lockable Hasp Feature

In addition to an expandable front window, Intermatic’s new weatherproof covers include a no-hassle latch, with lockable hasp, that can be opened effortlessly with one hand for extra convenience. This small but important feature allows homeowners to use a lock or zip tie to secure their outdoor outlets throughout the pool season, as well as during wintertime when the pool is not in use. It’s especially useful in households with small children and pets.

Additional features of our new low-profile in-use covers include:

• Code Compliant Design – WP7000 and WP7200 Series Low-Profile In-Use Covers comply with 2017 NEC Article 406.9 (B)(1) for wet locations and extra-duty applications; CEC 26-702 Compliant; RoHS Compliant
• Configuration Options – Available in single-gang and double-gang configurations, as well as standard and extra-duty; select white, gray or bronze color options; single-gang models can accommodate both vertical and horizontal installations
• Quick Installation – Covers are GFCI pre-set; keyhole slots allow pool professionals and electrical contractors to complete installation in minutes

Keeping Components Safe from Unexpected Power Surge Events

While low-profile outdoor covers keep electrical outlets protected and secure, robust solutions like the Intermatic PS3000 Surge Protective Device help safeguard expensive pool components from damage 365 days a year.

A power surge (sometimes referred to as an electrical surge or voltage spike) is a sudden increase in current in an electrical circuit. Though they last only a millionth of a second, they can affect an entire electrical system, causing damage to connected appliances and devices, as well as hardwired components.

Though commonly associated with thunderstorms and inclement weather conditions, electrical surge events can be triggered in many different ways. The majority of surge events (approximately 60-80 percent) are actually created by large electrical appliances as they switch on and off, as well as from power grid switching issues.

Whether from a sudden, high-impact instance or through repeated, low-level surges, these voltage spikes are the silent killers responsible for degrading and eroding components within valuable pool components and electrical equipment. Eventually, this damaging process will require maintenance or replacement of components.

Common PS3000 applications:

• Gas and electric high-efficiency heaters
• Single and variable speed pool pumps
• Pool automation systems
• Water feature pumps
• Chlorinators
• Suction cleaners
• Stereo and speaker systems
• Flat screen televisions
• Portable hot tubs

With a typical installation time of just 10 minutes, adding an SPD is a cost-effective and convenient “insurance policy” for pool and spa owners. The device can be installed onto the pool sub-panel, junction box or spa disconnect and includes a 3-year, $7,500 connected equipment warranty.

Contact your local Intermatic representative today to learn how to take pool safety to the next level as you plan for the upcoming season!