Home | Features | Products | Light Up The Night With PAL Lighting
When discussing pool lighting solutions, frequently one name that pops up again and again in conversation is PAL Lighting. The Sydney Australia-based manufacturer makes a line of wirelessly controlled LED lighting and controllers that are perfect for swimming pools, spas, water features, and landscape lighting. After first entering the US market back in 2004, word spread both in the marketplace and with professionals. Consequently, today, PAL Lighting has become a serious force to be reckoned with in the world of LED lighting. Folks are suddenly paying attention, particularly in the pool industry; and for good reason. Pool Light Fixture
One thing the pandemic did was create supply chain issues with manufacturers all over the globe. What it also did was create an opportunity for LED lighting manufacturers like PAL to suddenly reach more customers. While many pool professionals were aware of who PAL Lighting was, change happens slowly in the industry as does mass adoption of a new product line. Shortages and delays getting products have caused professionals to reexamine PAL’s products and value proposition. Suddenly PAL is in the spotlight, so to speak.
To get a better understanding of their product line we met with Ben Forrest, U.S. representative for PAL Lighting and Ryan Hughes, one of the elite builders working today. “Many have heard of our product line but haven’t tried them just because of the comfort level of doing the same old thing,” said Forrest, “while they might have heard of us, they may not have much experience with our products.”
“Most pool professionals in the industry didn’t have much knowledge of PAL Lighting prior to the pandemic, we were probably best known for our strip lighting. When Covid happened product shortages impacted a lot of manufacturers. That didn’t happen with us because our products are manufactured in Australia, not in China so we didn’t have any of the trade sanctions or challenges other manufacturers faced to the same degree,” said Forrest.
“A lot of operators were forced to try PAL Lighting as an alternative to one of the ‘Big 3’ and when they did they came back and said ‘Wow, where have you been?’, and we said, ‘Well, we’ve always been here, but nobodies been paying attention til now,'” said Forrest.
“Our sales have skyrocketed, simply because we’ve had to fill the void,” explained Forrest, “for us, the growth that we’ve seen in demand for our strip lighting is really exciting. For the last four years our strip lighting has been more than 1,000% of the previous year. You do that for four years in a row and you can tell you’re really getting strip lighting out there.”
“The other growth that’s exciting for us is that once we build a relationship with a builder and go through a few projects with them, they start to get a real understanding of what they can do with our lighting,” said Forrest, “they’re accomplishing things they’ve never been able to do before and that gives them room for growth. Instead of putting 4 lights in a swimming pool, I work with builders who are regularly putting 20-30 fixtures. They’re adding lighting for outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and all sorts of things.”
In this industry, mass adoption happens when products hit a tipping point with the right people. The fact that the elite of the industry such as Ryan Hughes have begun incorporating PAL Lighting into their luxury pool projects, suddenly puts PAL on the world stage with their products. In a recent interview with Hughes back in November at the International Pool & Spa Expo, Hughes showcased one of his latest projects using PAL Lighting products.
A post shared by PAL Lighting (@pal_lighting)
In Hughes’ PAL Lighting application he wanted to give homeowners the ability to fully control their lighting system. “They were the only manufacturer that could give us a four wire RGBW light that could be connected with DMX,” said Hughes, “because (the homeowner) wanted a DMX controller, he didn’t just want 10 colors, he wanted to be able to have any color show he wanted.”
Forrest, who uses the Hughes project as an example when showcasing the product, agrees that homeowners have come to expect more from their lighting system. Consequently, the number of existing pool owners that are looking to upgrade to LED lighting in their pool is growing.
“Think of all the lights that were installed prior to the late 90’s and early 2000’s. All of them use incandescent bulbs. We developed a bulb that we can use as a replacement that takes the average pool from a 500 watt incandescent bulb to a 9 watt LED and you get all the features that you would get from a true RGB light,” said Forrest, “meaning you get 16 million colors, dimming functions, true white mode; all controlled by remote. Pool professionals can make good margins but still retail these things for under $400.”
Listen to our entire conversation with Ben Forrest of PAL Lighting on the Pool Magazine podcast.
Featured Photo Credit: Ryan Hughes Design | Joe Traina Photography
Our Big Joe Pool Float Collection Keeps Getting Bigger
Ledge Lounger’s Autograph Collection is the Smash of the Summer
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]
Elevating Your Outdoor Oasis: PAL Lighting Landscape Lighting Technology
Pal Lighting’s DMX Automation Technology: Illuminating Creativity with Instant Color
Making a Splash with Outdoor Lighting: Past, Present, and Future
New Department of Energy Pool Lighting Regulations for GSL’s
PAL Lighting Acquires Precision Architectural Lighting
Getting Maximum Benefit from Your Inground Pool LED Lighting
In the ever-evolving world of pool construction and renovation, professionals are constantly on the lookout for innovative products that not only enhance pool quality but also streamline installation processes. Recently, a pool professional posted a question in the Ask The Masters group on Facebook, a community dedicated to educating the pool industry. The question revolved around ecoFINISH products and whether anyone had experience with them. To shed light on what ecoFINISH is, how it works, and why it’s gaining traction, we sat down with Joe Solana, President of ecoFINISH, and Jacob Tetrick, a new installer and applicator who says using ecoFINISH products has been incredibly beneficial for his pool business.
The ecoFINISH brand has become known in recent years for its innovative pool finishing technology. They specialize in external flame spray powder coating, a unique approach to pool surface coatings. This technology uses polyethylene powders that are chemically resistant and incorporate UV-stable pigments, making the pool surface highly durable and resistant to the effects of water chemistry and sunlight.
Joe Solana highlights a significant advantage of ecoFINISH: its resistance to fading due to water chemistry. “You won’t get your typical bleach mark,” he explains. “If someone throws muriatic acid into the pool or broadcasts chlorine excessively, the finish remains unscathed, unlike traditional masonry finishes. This provides pool owners and builders with valuable time to rectify any chemical mishaps, mitigating potential damage.”
One of the standout features of ecoFINISH is its remarkably short curing process. Solana elaborates, stating, “The curing process for our finish lasts a couple of minutes. It’s essentially from the time that you stop applying the heat to the time it cools is our curing process.” This means that as soon as the pool application is complete, it can be filled with a standard garden hose. No need for the logistics and expense of trucked water, as is the case with some other pool finishes.
What sets ecoFINISH apart further is the absence of a protracted two-week curing period that often accompanies alternative finishes. This ease of use and rapid curing process benefits not only pool owners but also pool builders, who can initiate pool operations immediately.
Jacob Tetrick, who operates Quality USA Pools in South Dakota, provides invaluable insights into why ecoFINISH has become an integral part of his pool construction and renovation projects.
Jacob’s initial interest in ecoFINISH was piqued by a growing demand for pool resurfacing. He explains, “With the increasing number of inquiries about pool renovations, I began exploring options for a higher-end pool solution that could be completed more quickly and with minimal disruption to the homeowner’s property. In my region, some clients are averse to the idea of a full concrete pool due to cost differences. They are willing to invest more for a superior product.”
One of the primary advantages that caught Jacob’s attention was ecoFINISH’s simplicity and ease of application. “Even on complex resurfacing projects that involve chipping out plaster and applying a skim coat to a concrete pool, we can complete the job with just three workers,” he states. “This not only saves time but also minimizes the challenges associated with larger labor crews.”
For Tetrick, delivering a high-quality, long-term solution to his clients is paramount. He emphasizes, “I want to provide the best possible products for the best possible price, both for me and for the customer. It’s about being profitable on jobs and ensuring that customers don’t face recurring issues, necessitating frequent service calls.”
Jacob’s experience with ecoFINISH has been overwhelmingly positive. He adds, “I’ve been an ecoFINISH installer for about two years now, and the best thing about it is its simplicity. As long as you follow their process, perform the necessary prep work, and take your time to apply the product properly, you won’t encounter any issues.”
Moreover, Tetrick underscores the benefits of ecoFINISH for his customers. “When discussing pool options with customers, I emphasize the differences. Vinyl liners have a limited lifespan, typically three to seven years, with replacement costs ranging from $7,000 to $13,000,” he explains. “In contrast, the ecoFINISH-coated pool offers a ten-year warranty, doesn’t fade in the sun, is environmentally friendly, and eliminates the need for vinyl liners, reducing waste.”
An outstanding feature of ecoFINISH is its durability. Tetrick highlights, “The product comes with a ten-year warranty, but we’ve observed it lasting well beyond 15 years without requiring any maintenance. What’s particularly impressive is the ability to make repairs. For example, if we apply ecoFINISH to a concrete pool and it develops cracks, we can revisit the area, fix the crack, and reapply the coating. This process seamlessly bonds to itself, ensuring a consistent finish. There’s no need to redo the entire pool.”
Solana also discussed the considerable challenges associated with introducing a new technology to an industry. He explains, “Early on, we had made the decision since we were the ones introducing this technology, that if anything went wrong,” Solana says, “and applicators were not installing correctly and they were having issues, the product would be to blame. It’s not like having some type of cementitious plaster finish and just coming out with a new brand. Usually, the applicator is the one who can easily be explained as doing it incorrectly and the reason for the problem. But when you have a whole new technology and you’re introducing it into an industry that’s never heard of it before, and you’re asking people to believe that it works, if you run into any streak of issues, everyone’s going to blame the new technology.”
To ensure the success of the technology, ecoFINISH made a crucial decision. Solana explains, “We knew that we had an uphill battle. I’ve been in the swimming pool industry my entire life. I was born into the family business. I know the kind of guys that we deal with on a day-to-day basis. Often if presented with needing to pay for training, they’ll opt to skip it. So we made the decision early on that we would never charge anyone for training.”
The commitment to free training has been a cornerstone of ecoFINISH’s approach. Solana underscores this point, saying, “Out of our applications all over the world, other than the initial purchase of the equipment, I can only think of one or two instances where we actually charged somebody for training. For all of our customers, one of the points that we hit on is that we will get people to them for training for any reason. If they’re just uncomfortable and need help, all they have to do is ask.”
Moreover, Solana acknowledges the unique nature of the pool industry. “A lot of guys who do concrete pools only do concrete pools,” he states. “Guys who do fiberglass pools typically only do fiberglass pools. There’s a handful of companies out there where they’ll jump around and they’ll work on different types of pools, but there’s not a ton of those guys. The vast majority specialize in something, then they stick with it. So if you’re a concrete guy and that’s what you’re used to, and that’s what we trained you on, and you go to do your first fiberglass pool, not only do we want you to ask for help, we want to be there. We want to show you how to do it because there are subtle differences between the two applications.”
Listen to our two-part series with Jacob Tetrick of Quality USA Pools and Joe Solana of ecoFINISH on the Pool Magazine podcast.
When it comes to creating an outdoor oasis that exudes elegance and charm, the power of lighting cannot be underestimated. Whether you’re hosting a vibrant summer poolside party or seeking a tranquil escape amidst your landscape, synchronized lighting coordination can transform your outdoor space into a harmonious visual masterpiece. PAL Lighting’s landscape lighting technology is the key to unlocking this transformative potential, allowing homeowners to craft unforgettable moments under the enchanting glow of radiant colors.
Crafting a Harmonious Visual Experience
The outdoor space around your home is an extension of your lifestyle and personal aesthetic. To fully harness its potential, a well-coordinated lighting system is essential. PAL Lighting‘s technology is designed to synchronize various lighting elements, from poolside luminaires to landscape fixtures, seamlessly blending them into a unified and harmonious visual experience.
A Symphony of Colors for Every Occasion
With this revolutionary new technology, homeowners have the power to set the mood for any occasion. Whether it’s a vibrant summer poolside party, a cozy evening for two, or a family gathering, you can effortlessly switch between various color schemes and intensities to complement the atmosphere. From warm and inviting tones to cool and calming hues, PAL Lighting provides a full spectrum of color options, ensuring that your outdoor space adapts to your every desire.
The magic of synchronized lighting doesn’t just stop at aesthetics; it’s about crafting unforgettable moments. Imagine the joy of your children splashing in the pool under a canopy of vibrant colors or the romantic ambiance as you and your loved one share a quiet evening under the stars. PAL Lighting helps you create these cherished memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Discover the Potential of Lighting Artistry with Pal Lighting
In a world where outdoor living is increasingly becoming an integral part of our lifestyles, PAL Lighting stands at the forefront of lighting artistry. With their state-of-the-art technology and a commitment to quality, they offer a seamless and luxurious way to bring your outdoor oasis to life. The possibilities are endless, and it all begins with Pal Lighting.
Transform your outdoor living space into a masterpiece of lighting coordination, where every moment is a work of art. Experience the magic of synchronized lighting and unlock the potential of your landscape with PAL Lighting.
Photo Credits: Ryan Hughes Design / Build
If you’re in search of the ultimate aquatic adventure right in your own backyard, the Riverflow pump is your ticket to an exhilarating and customizable swim experience. Riverflow by Current Systems is a cutting-edge swim current system that has taken the world of pools and water features by storm, and for a good reason. Let’s delve into what Riverflow pumps do, how they work, and explore some of the unique and innovative applications, including a remarkable project led by acclaimed pool builder, Andy Kaner.
At its core, the Riverflow pump is a state-of-the-art swim current system designed to create a continuous and adjustable current within swimming pools. It transforms a standard pool into a dynamic and versatile aquatic environment, suitable for professional athletes, recreational swimmers, or families looking to add excitement to their water activities.
Riverflow’s differentiating factor is its advanced technology and engineering, providing a smooth, powerful, and turbulence-free swim current. Traditional swim current systems often rely on swim jets or other mechanisms that can disrupt the swimmer’s experience with bubbles and high-pressure disturbances. In contrast, the Riverflow pump offers a realistic and steady swim current, allowing swimmers to focus on their strokes and enjoy a genuinely challenging workout or a relaxing swim.
Versatility is another key advantage of the Riverflow pump. It can be installed in various pool configurations, including lap pools, lazy rivers, adventure pools, and more. This adaptability caters to the unique needs and preferences of all pool users. With adjustable speed control, swimmers can tailor the intensity of the current to match their desired level of challenge.
Notably, the Riverflow Pump operates quietly, ensuring an undisturbed swimming experience. Its design prioritizes silent operation, allowing users to concentrate on their strokes, relaxation, or conversation without any unwanted noise interference.
Beyond its versatility and quiet operation, the Riverflow Pump boasts exceptional durability and energy efficiency. Built with high-quality materials and precision engineering, it can withstand the demands of continuous operation while consuming minimal energy. This ensures long-term performance and simultaneously reduces operational costs and environmental impact.
Now, let’s turn our attention to an exceptional project led by pool builder Andy Kaner. His visionary design incorporates a lazy river that runs around the entire pool. The upper level features a full-blown pool with a shallow lounging area and a perimeter overflow spa. A bridge connects the spa to a shallow lounging area that spans over the lazy river beneath it, complete with clear acrylic panels in the floor and rain cascades running down the sides, creating a mesmerizing visual effect.
As swimmers navigate this unique lazy river, they can stop at a swim-up bar, leave their float behind, and enjoy a refreshing drink before continuing their journey. But here’s where the magic happens – Andy Kaner collaborated with Riverflow to introduce variable speed pumps into the project. “These pumps are not just powerful; they are fully controllable, allowing for a transformation from a lazy river to a thrilling whitewater rafting experience at the flip of a switch. The clients can dial up the pump speed, creating a wild, white-water adventure as they cruise around the river at high speeds”, said Kaner. This dynamic project showcases the ingenuity and creativity that the Riverflow Pump can help pool builders and designers achieve in their lazy river applications.
The Riverflow pump is an innovation that has fundamentally changed the way we experience swimming pools and water features. It offers a new level of excitement, challenge, and versatility, with its smooth and adjustable current, silent operation, and impressive performance. Whether you’re a professional swimmer or a recreational enthusiast, the Riverflow current system can cater to your unique needs.
For pool builders like Andy Kaner and countless others, the Riverflow system presents a world of possibilities for creating one-of-a-kind pool designs, including swim-in-place systems, adventure pools, and lazy river applications. Its compatibility with various pool configurations, ease of installation, and advanced features make it an invaluable tool in their arsenal. The ability to customize the swim experience with the Riverflow Pump is a game-changer in the industry.
Moreover, consumers benefit from this technology, as it opens up a whole new dimension of swimming enjoyment in the comfort of their homes. The Riverflow Pump offers a thrilling experience, a quiet operation, and sustainable efficiency, making it a wise investment for those looking to elevate their aquatic adventures.
Ultimately, the Riverflow Pump is the bridge to turning an ordinary pool into an extraordinary aquatic playground. It’s no wonder that pool builders and consumers alike are embracing this technology, revolutionizing the way we enjoy our pools and water features. The Riverflow Pump is not just a swim current system; it’s a game-changer in the world of aquatic experiences.
Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Reveals The 2023 International Awards Of Excellence Winners
Buy a Pool Plate – Save a Life!
10 Ways To Throw The Ultimate Halloween Party In The Privacy of Your Own Backyard
The Art of Rock Design
Poolside Perspectives Podcast: A Must-Listen for Pool Design and Construction Enthusiasts
Electrocution at Fountain in Jupiter, FL – Kills 1, Injures 4
Creating Fun & Excitement In The Pool With Riverflow
Waterproof Led Light For Fountain Powered by © Copyright 2020-2023 - All Rights Reserved - Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Privacy Policy Articles and content may not be reused without the expressed permission of Pool Magazine™.