When it comes to pool equipment, few innovations have reshaped the industry as much as variable speed pumps. They’ve cut energy costs, reduced strain on equipment, and helped pool owners embrace greener backyard living. Now, Pentair has taken things to the next level with the IntelliFlo3 VSF pump—a solution designed not only to move water efficiently but also to bring powerful automation and remote connectivity directly into the heart of the backyard.

To better understand what makes the IntelliFlo3 such a game-changer for both pool owners and service professionals, Pool Magazine sat down with Adam Key, Senior Product Manager for Pentair Pool Pumps. With more than 15 years at Pentair, much of it spent in new product development, Key has seen firsthand how pool technology has evolved—and why this latest generation pump is such a leap forward.

How IntelliFlo3 is Redefining Pool Automation

For decades, single-speed pumps controlled by mechanical time clocks were the industry standard. They kept water moving, but at a steep cost. “Those time clocks were the first and most primitive form of automation for pools,” Key explained. “Whenever that pump was on, it was running full blast, consuming a lot of electricity. That’s why we wanted time clocks—to cut costs and energy waste.”

Variable speed pumps introduced scheduling and energy savings, but they had one big flaw: the user interfaces were often clunky. “Usually that schedule’s not changed,” Key noted. “It’s really not much of an automation tool if you’re never updating it based on seasonal needs or bather load.”

That’s where IntelliFlo3 changes everything. By adding Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, Pentair gave users an intuitive mobile app to set, adjust, and monitor pump schedules anytime, anywhere. “You could be on vacation, see a storm coming at home, and increase the filtration cycle to keep your pool clear—all from your phone,” Key said. The result: a pump that adapts to real-life conditions instead of being locked into a static program.

Built-In Relays for Smarter Control

One of the IntelliFlo3’s biggest innovations is its built-in relays, allowing homeowners to control more than just water circulation. “It’s a two-in-one automation system,” Key said. “It automates the filtration of the pool, but also gives you the ability to control other equipment.”

Lighting is the most common example. “Instead of flipping a switch on and off 10 times to find the right color, you just press red, green, blue, or party mode in the app,” he explained. Homeowners can also schedule lights to create nightly ambiance or coordinate them with backyard entertaining. “Most people want their pool to be enjoyed, but also want it to look great,” Key added. “Having your lights set up on a schedule makes it part of the whole backyard experience.”

Salt chlorine generators and heaters can also be tied in. “That salt cell is only operating when there’s water moving through it,” Key explained. “And with heaters, parents have oversight—kids can’t just flip it on and leave it running for hours, which can lead to sky-high gas bills.”

Beyond the Basics

The IntelliFlo3’s control isn’t limited to just those three essentials. “Really, you can control anything that just needs to be turned on or off—booster pumps, ozone systems, UV systems, landscape lights,” Key said. “For simple pools that only have a couple of items to control, this is the perfect solution.”

For more elaborate backyards with multiple features—waterfalls, fire bowls, or extensive lighting setups—Pentair’s IntelliCenter system offers deeper automation. But for the majority of pools, the IntelliFlo3 delivers surprising flexibility without requiring extra hardware.

Benefits for Homeowners and Service Pros

While automation is a big win for homeowners, service professionals may find IntelliFlo3 just as valuable. With remote connectivity built in, technicians can monitor performance, diagnose issues, and even resolve problems without ever rolling a truck.

“Because it’s an internet-connected device, servicers can see pump status, check if it’s running at the right speed, and fix problems on the fly,” Key explained. “You might get a notification that the pump lost prime—often because the water level dropped below the skimmer. Instead of sending someone out, you can call the homeowner and have them top it off. That saves time, fuel, and keeps your customers happier.”

For service companies, that means fewer emergency calls, better efficiency, and the ability to offer premium service packages. “It really is like a white-glove service you can now deliver with just this pump,” Key added.

Tracking Energy and Maintenance

The IntelliFlo line has long displayed instantaneous wattage, but IntelliFlo3 goes further with historical tracking in the Pentair Pool app. “Now you can see daily, weekly, and monthly energy consumption,” Key said.

This data empowers owners to tie maintenance directly to performance. “When energy usage climbs over time, that’s a sign the filter is loading up. Clean it, and you’ll see the usage drop right back down,” he explained. It’s a simple, visual way to keep energy costs down and prolong equipment life.

For eco-conscious homeowners, this visibility is especially appealing. For pros, it provides a teaching tool that reinforces the value of proper maintenance.

Staying Ahead of DOE Regulations

Another reason IntelliFlo3 is timely is the Department of Energy’s upcoming regulation on replacement motors. The DOE already pushed the industry toward variable speed pumps for new installations, but until now, replacement motors were exempt.

“That’s the piece they’re changing,” Key said. “Starting September 25, you can no longer buy or manufacture single-speed motors between 1.15 and 5 horsepower. All those replacement needs will have to go to a variable speed solution.”

For pros, that means educating homeowners on compliance and value. “There’s lots of energy savings, but also automation benefits,” Key emphasized. “It’s an investment that pays off quickly and enhances the pool experience.”

The Future of Smarter Pools

In many ways, the IntelliFlo3 is more than a pump—it’s a control hub, a monitoring system, and a service tool wrapped into one sleek package. “It brings convenience and efficiency for both homeowners and pool professionals,” Key said. “It’s the first of its kind with true Wi-Fi enabled relay control, energy tracking, and remote monitoring—all without additional hardware.”

For pool professionals, that means fewer truck rolls, improved efficiency, and happier clients. For homeowners, it means lower bills, simplified automation, and peace of mind that their pool is being looked after—even when they’re not around.

In an age where smart homes are standard, it only makes sense that pools keep pace. With the IntelliFlo3, Pentair has made that leap, creating a smarter, more efficient, and more enjoyable backyard experience.

The real takeaway? Smarter pools aren’t the future—they’re here now. And with IntelliFlo3, the pump that once only moved water is now moving the entire industry forward.

Feature	Details
Horsepower Options	Available in 3.0 HP and 1.5 HP models to fit a variety of pool needs.
Easy Installation	Guided setup with the Pentair Pro app using step-by-step instructions; optional ongoing remote monitoring for simplified maintenance.
Flow Control	Patented flow technology automatically adjusts to pool conditions; as debris clogs the filter, the pump speeds up to maintain proper flow.
Automation	Built-in two-relay automation system lets you connect and control up to two additional devices (e.g., pool lighting, salt chlorine generator) via the Pentair Home app.
Connectivity	View real-time status, alerts, and notifications in the Pentair Home app or on the pump touchscreen. Wi-Fi enabled with OTA (over-the-air) software updates.
Proprietary Flow Tech	Maintains optimal water flow for peak performance and extended equipment life.
Energy Savings	Provides up to 90% energy savings compared to single-speed pumps by running at slower, regulated speeds.
Replacement Ready	Versatile upgrade or replacement option for existing pools, available in both 1.5 HP and 3.0 HP.
Quiet Design	Engineered for low-noise operation, delivering powerful performance without disruption.
Upgraded Motor & Design	Features an updated motor, drive, and hydraulics; ENERGY STAR® rated and DOE-compliant.
Mobile Monitoring & Control	Use the Pentair Home app to set schedules, adjust performance, and manage operations anytime, anywhere.

Resources:

1. The IntelliFlo3​ Variable Speed & Flow Pump Hub
2. Brochures & Guides for IntelliFlo3

Ready to Take a Deeper Dive?

Listen to our entire conversation with Adam Key on the Pool Magazine podcast.

As the 2025 summer swim season draws to a close homeowners and professionals alike are prioritizing comfort, efficiency, and reliability when it comes to heating their pools. Advances in technology mean that whether you choose a gas-fired heater or an electric heat pump, there are more high-performance, energy-conscious options than ever.

At Pool Magazine, we’ve evaluated the leading pool heaters and heat pumps on the market this year to give you a comprehensive look at the models delivering the best mix of performance, durability, and value. Drawing from manufacturer updates, consumer feedback, and U.S. Department of Energy guidance on pool heating, this list covers the top-rated pool heaters and heat pumps for 2025.

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A Look at the Top-Rated Pool Heaters of 2025

Pentair ETi® 400 High-Efficiency Pool & Spa Heater – Editor’s Pick

Pentair’s ETi® 400 is nothing short of revolutionary in gas-fired pool heating. Boasting a blazing 96% thermal efficiency, it’s the highest in its class—meaning nearly every penny of your energy spend goes directly into raising water temperature. At 400,000 BTUs, this model brings serious power to the table, rapidly delivering warm water for both pools and spas. Its Titan-Tough™ direct-fire titanium heat exchanger is built to last—designed for extreme durability and superior resistance to corrosion—making it a long-term workhorse in harsh water conditions.

Beyond efficiency and strength, the ETi 400 elevates installation and functionality with thoughtful features. Flexible venting orientation and a rotatable control panel simplify fitting into tight equipment spaces. The design is whisper-quiet, ideal for peaceful backyards, and easy-access panels streamline maintenance. In short, this heater offers aggressive heating performance, rugged longevity, and installer-friendly upgrades—all wrapped in a sleek, efficient package worthy of a cutting-edge pool setup.

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Hayward Universal H-Series HC — Dual Fuel 400k BTU

Hayward’s Universal HC Series combines sheer power with a footprint that’s the smallest in its class. Delivering 400,000 BTUs, it can heat even large pools and spas quickly, and its dual-fuel capability makes it easy to switch between natural gas and propane depending on availability. Designed for maximum flexibility, the heater requires zero wall clearance, and a reversible top gives installers more options when space is tight.

Built for performance and longevity, the Universal HC uses a cupro-nickel heat exchanger that resists corrosion in tough water conditions, including saltwater pools. A patented butterfly bypass valve keeps high flow rates steady, while exclusive plumbing adapters simplify installation and replacement. With its combination of raw heating power, compact design, and advanced durability, the HC Series delivers reliable comfort with professional-grade performance.

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Jandy JXiQ™

The Jandy JXiQ™ raises the bar for smart, reliable pool heating. With auto-sensing dual-voltage capability, it seamlessly adapts to the power supply without manual configuration—no jumper cards, no wiring changes. A built-in low gas pressure switch prevents ignition if gas flow is insufficient, offering a safe, worry-free startup. It’s engineered for longevity with thoughtful features like a sacrificial anode that protects internal components from corrosion, giving you enhanced durability and peace of mind.

This heater doesn’t just work hard—it thinks ahead. Its oversized digital display delivers clear status updates and even calculates heat-up times, so you know exactly how long until your pool or spa reaches the desired temperature. Integrated VersaFlo™ bypass technology cleverly redirects water only when heating is necessary, saving energy and reducing wear. For service pros, the JXiQ offers real-time diagnostics via Bluetooth and the Fluidra Pro app, while homeowners enjoy remote control through the iAquaLink® app. In short, the JXiQ™ combines efficiency, toughness, and next-gen convenience in a compact, high-performance package.

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Raypak AVIA HD with NiTek™

The Raypak AVIA HD with NiTek™ redefines durability and control in gas-fueled pool heating. With an 84% thermal efficiency and flexible venting options, it delivers powerful, consistent warmth for pools and spas. Raypak’s proprietary NiTek™ heat exchanger offers up to 300% greater erosion resistance compared to traditional copper and 200% more than cupronickel—making this one of the most long-lasting and corrosion-resistant heaters on the market.

Smart comfort meets modern convenience with integrated Wi-Fi control via the Raymote app, which eliminates the need for separate panels and puts hassle-free heater management right on your phone. Capable of handling up to 100 GPM and powered by a standard 120/240V, single-phase connection, the AVIA HD blends rugged performance and cutting-edge tech into a sleek, installer-friendly design.

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Natural Gas or Propane: Which is Right for You?

One of the key decisions pool owners face when purchasing a gas heater is choosing between natural gas and propane. Both fuels have distinct advantages:

Natural Gas: If your property already has a natural gas line, this is often the most convenient and cost-effective option. Natural gas heaters typically have lower operating costs in regions where utility gas prices are stable.

Propane: For rural or off-grid homeowners without access to natural gas, propane provides flexibility. While propane can be more expensive per BTU, propane heaters deliver the same heating speed and performance as their natural gas counterparts.

Both fuel types are capable of heating water quickly, often raising pool temperatures by several degrees in just hours. For those who want on-demand heating — say, warming the spa before an evening soak — gas heaters remain the fastest solution available.

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Top Pool Heat Pumps of 2025

While gas heaters excel in speed, heat pumps shine in efficiency, especially in warm and mild climates where they can harness ambient air to heat the pool. According to the DOE’s pool heating guidance, heat pumps often cost more upfront but save significantly on long-term energy expenses.

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Pentair UltraTemp® High Performance Pool Heat Pump

The Pentair UltraTemp® delivers top-tier efficiency and reliability with a design that homeowners and installers both appreciate. At its core is a rugged all-titanium heat exchanger with a lifetime warranty, built to resist corrosion and endure even the harshest pool environments. It leverages the powerful Emerson Copeland® scroll compressor—renowned for quiet operation, efficiency, and durability—to deliver consistent, energy-smart heating and cooling performance, making it a standout in its class.

Control feels intuitive and effortless thanks to its LCD board that displays full-word messages, eliminating cryptic codes and simplifying operation. Pentair has packed it with smart features like the AutoSet™ temperature control, which monitors water conditions and starts or stops the system automatically to maintain the perfect temperature. Plus, its compatibility with IntelliTouch® and EasyTouch® automation systems lets you manage your heat from a central control hub, making the UltraTemp® a seamless, energy-efficient powerhouse.

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Hayward HeatPro® MCHX Series Heat + Chill (140K BTU)

Hayward’s HeatPro® MCHX Series sets a new benchmark in versatility and durability for pool heating and cooling. Featuring groundbreaking microchannel heat exchanger technology, it delivers quicker temperature control with significantly improved heat transfer and reduced refrigerant usage. Lighter and more compact than traditional designs, this model offers both heating up to 140,000 BTU and chilling capabilities down to a chilly 40 °F—ideal for cold plunges or rapid cooling in hot climates. Patented low-ambient performance ensures efficient operation even when outdoor temperatures drop, extending your swim season further into shoulder months.

Built to endure tough environments, the HeatPro® MCHX is engineered with a rugged coil structure coated in corrosion-resistant TCP (Trivalent Chromium Process) for top-tier longevity—even in coastal or harsh chemical conditions. Installation and servicing are streamlined, thanks to its lighter weight, fewer brazed joints, and reduced panel-load electrical needs. With smart control options via the Omni automation platform, whisper-quiet operation, and a five-year parts warranty, this heat pump delivers modern performance, peace of mind, and all-season comfort in one sleek package.

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Jandy VersaTemp 103,000 BTU Heater/Chiller

The Jandy VersaTemp™ Heat/Chill Pump brings year-round versatility to your fingertips. Using smart thermo control, it can either draw heat from the air to warm your pool or remove excess heat to cool it down—giving you complete comfort, whether it’s hot summer days or brisk evenings. Highly efficient and designed with a smaller footprint, it fits neatly into compact equipment pads without sacrificing performance, delivering fast, reliable temperature control.

Quiet, intuitive, and intelligent, the VersaTemp™ features SoundShield™ Technology—decibel-dampening acoustic layers and specially designed swept-wing blades reduce operational noise so you’ll feel the warmth, not hear the unit. It’s engineered for dependable use even when the air dips below 50°F, thanks to ice-detection heat reversal that prevents coil freeze-up. Simplified operation through an easy-to-read digital LCD and dual thermostats for pool and spa control (plus live access via iAquaLink® automation) make managing temperature seamless and modern, all in one compact and highly efficient design.

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Raypak Crosswind V Heat Pump

Raypak’s Crosswind V delivers exceptional warmth in an elegantly compact design. With a sleek vertical discharge layout and industry-standard 2″ water connections accessible from the front, it fits effortlessly onto standard equipment pads—making installation both faster and more flexible. Available in multiple power levels up to 138,000 BTU, this model balances robust heating power with a smaller physical footprint and lighter weight, ideal for tight or modern backyard setups. Moreover, its titanium heat exchanger promises long-lasting durability against corrosion, ensuring consistent performance season after season.

True to Raypak’s focus on convenience, the Crosswind V offers intuitive, energy-smart features like a capacitive-touch interface and real-time diagnostics, giving homeowners and service professionals immediate insights into performance. A removable control junction box simplifies servicing, and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity paired with the Raymote mobile app empowers remote pool temperature control from anywhere. Plus, select Deluxe models add a “Cool Mode,” letting you chill the pool during hot spells—so the Crosswind V delivers sleek, powerful, and year-round climate control for your pool.

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AquaCal HeatWave SuperQuiet®

The AquaCal HeatWave SuperQuiet® sets the industry standard for quiet, efficient pool heating—and cooling. At its heart lies the patented ThermoLink® titanium heat exchanger, built for exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. Designed with a flow-friendly hydraulic layout, it adds only 2 PSI at standard flow rates, making it uniquely compatible with variable-speed pumps and maximizing energy savings throughout operation.

Beyond its advanced internal design, the HeatWave SuperQuiet® is packed with convenience and smart features. It’s AHRI-certified and available in both heating-only and heat-and-cool (IceBreaker®) models, allowing pool owners to extend swim seasons by keeping water comfortable even in cooler or warmer temperatures. A corrosion-resistant cabinet paired with a full-text digital display ensures weatherproof durability and intuitive control. Add in remote access via the PoolSync® app for temperature adjustments and diagnostics on the go, and you have a heat pump that’s efficient, resilient, and effortlessly smart.

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Pool Heaters vs. Heat Pumps

So, which heating technology is better — gas heaters or heat pumps? The answer depends on your climate, usage habits, and budget.

Gas Heaters (Natural Gas or Propane)

🥇 Best for: Cold climates, large pools, and spa owners who want rapid on-demand heating.
✅ Pros: Heats water quickly, unaffected by outdoor temperature.
❌ Cons: Higher ongoing fuel costs, less energy efficient.

Heat Pumps

🥇 Best for: Warm and mild climates where efficiency matters more than speed.
✅ Pros: Extremely energy efficient, lower operating costs, eco-friendly.
❌ Cons: Slower heat-up times; performance drops in colder air temperatures.

Many homeowners choose gas heaters for spas and heat pumps for pools, or even install both for maximum flexibility.

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Choosing the Best Product for Your Pool

When selecting the right pool heating solution, consider:

1. Pool Size & Volume – Larger pools may require higher BTU gas heaters or large-capacity heat pumps.
2. Climate & Location – Heat pumps thrive in warmer regions; gas heaters dominate in cooler climates.
3. Usage Habits – If you want to swim year-round or heat a spa quickly, gas heaters may be worth the fuel cost. For those looking to maintain a comfortable temperature consistently, a heat pump is usually more cost-effective.
4. Budget – Gas heaters typically cost less upfront but more to operate. Heat pumps cost more initially but offer significant long-term savings.
5. Automation & Integration – Most leading models are automation-ready, making it easier than ever to manage heating from your smartphone or pool system controller.

Pricing a Pool Heater or Heat Pump

When it comes to cost, the conversation starts with equipment price. Gas heaters generally enter the market at a lower price point. A compact 175,000–200,000 BTU model often sells for around $1,800 to $2,500. Mid-range heaters in the 250,000–300,000 BTU class usually run between $2,500 and $3,500, while the biggest 350,000–400,000 BTU units for large pools can exceed $5,000. Heat pumps begin higher. Most standard residential models range from $2,800 to $4,000, and larger 120,000–140,000 BTU or inverter-driven units with heat-and-chill features can climb to $6,000 or even $7,500.

The real difference shows up in monthly energy bills. A gas heater running on natural gas typically costs $200 to $400 a month to operate, depending on pool size and how frequently it’s used. Propane can push those costs even higher. Electricity costs for a heat pump are much lower, usually falling between $50 and $150 per month in most regions. That efficiency makes heat pumps especially attractive for homeowners in warmer climates where the units can draw plenty of heat from the surrounding air.

Over the lifetime of the equipment, gas heaters tend to last five to ten years, which means most owners will spend between $12,000 and $18,000 over a decade when fuel and equipment are combined. Heat pumps last longer—typically ten to fifteen years—and although they cost more to install, the lower operating expense brings total ten-year ownership costs closer to $7,000 to $10,000.

Quick Comparison

Category	Gas Heater	Heat Pump
Upfront Price	Lower ($1,800–$5,000)	Higher ($3,000–$7,500)
Operating Cost	Higher ($200–$400+/mo)	Lower ($50–$150/mo)
Speed	Fast heating	Slower heating
Lifespan	5–10 years	10–15 years
Best For	Cold climates, spas, on-demand heating	Warm/mild climates, steady seasonal use

The Future of Pool Heating

As pool technology evolves, so too do the options for keeping water comfortable all season long. Whether you lean toward the lightning-fast performance of a gas heater or the long-term savings of a heat pump, the 2025 lineup offers more innovation, efficiency, and convenience than ever before. From smart controls and mobile apps to corrosion-resistant exchangers and dual-function heat-and-chill systems, today’s heaters and heat pumps are designed to give homeowners total control over their swimming experience.

Pool Magazine will be on the floor at both the International Pool Spa Patio Expo and the Pool & Spa Show in Atlantic City, covering the latest launches and breakthrough products as they’re unveiled. Our team will be reporting on new models, upgraded technologies, and smart energy solutions designed to extend your swim season and maximize comfort. Stay tuned to PoolMagazine.com for updates on the next wave of heaters and heat pumps—because when it comes to pool ownership, comfort and efficiency are no longer luxuries; they’re the new standard.

Basecrete Technologies has built its reputation on innovation in waterproofing and surface protection for the pool and construction industries. Under the leadership of President Vito Mariano, the company has consistently sought ways to improve longevity, durability, and ease of application for builders and contractors. This year, Basecrete is excited to add three standout products to their lineup—Nano-Set, Suede, and a new fiberglass mesh system within Basecrete Xtreme—each designed to address long-standing challenges in plaster, waterproofing, and bonding.

Basecrete Introduces Three Exciting New Products

Mariano has spent decades refining solutions for plaster and waterproofing. With multiple patents to his name, his focus has always been on developing products that improve performance while simplifying the applicator’s job. “I’ve been working with pool plaster, even with my patents, for many years. I know how the cement aggregate works inside swimming pools,” Mariano explained. His latest releases are a continuation of that philosophy—products that tackle recurring issues like pigment loss, permeability, callbacks, and labor inefficiencies.

Nano Set: Enhancing Pool Plaster from the Inside Out

Solving Plaster Challenges

Nano-Set is an additive formulated to reduce pigment loss, improve workability, and strengthen plaster finishes. “It reduces the pigment loss of the plaster, especially the plaster dust. It allows more cream for workability, which minimizes callbacks from customers,” Mariano said. By reinforcing the plaster matrix, the product aims to eliminate common frustrations contractors and homeowners face after installation.

Feedback from the Field

At Pool Magazine, we often check in with the top applicators and installers in the industry to gauge how new products are performing in real-world conditions. One of those voices is Jason Evans, a respected contractor who was previously featured in Pool Magazine for his work on the iconic Hard Rock Seminole resort pool project. Evans has also been an early adopter of Basecrete’s latest innovations, and he praised Nano Set for solving long-standing issues in plaster performance. “So far, it’s been a great product. It hasn’t affected the workability in any negative way—some additives do cause issues, but this hasn’t at all. It really keeps the color bright and vibrant, and that’s the biggest plus for us,” Evans shared.

Another respected perspective came from Showtime Pools, who ran their own hands-on comparison between Nano and a competing product. Their crews immediately noticed the difference in the field. “I tested Basecrete Nano against a similar product. Plaster crews used both and preferred Nano for troweling and bringing the cream to the surface. Vito, hats off to you and the company all these years. I usually find new products early, and Nano keeps you ahead in the game,” Showtime Pools noted.

Mariano’s Reaction

For Mariano, feedback from respected professionals like Evans and Showtime Pools underscores exactly why Nano Set was developed. “These contractors are out there every day, and they can feel the difference,” Mariano said. “When plaster crews like Showtime say Nano trowels easier, that tells me we’re making their job better. And when guys like Jason talk about color retention and reduced scaling, that confirms we’re protecting the finish the way we designed it. The goal has always been to give applicators a product that’s easier to work with and homeowners a surface that looks beautiful for a long time. Hearing both of those points validated in the field means we hit the mark.”

Mariano explained that Nano Set works by reinforcing the plaster matrix at a microscopic level. “Once you reintegrate the matrix, the amount of dust is eliminated so you don’t have to keep brushing it down after startup. The product encapsulates the pigments and fine particles—whether that’s the Portland cement, silica fume, or other pozzolanic material—while filling in tiny capillaries to make the surface tighter and stronger. That increases PSI, reduces permeability, and protects the plaster from exposure to water, acids, and chemicals,” he said.

Suede Micro Ceramic: A Waterproofing Membrane with a Designer Finish

Beyond Traditional Membranes

Suede micro ceramic is being positioned as a versatile cementitious membrane that functions underwater and above water. Unlike plaster, which must remain submerged, Suede can be used across tile lines, on beach entries, and for decorative applications. “It can be exposed in and out of the water, which plaster cannot. Plaster is meant to be submerged. This product is different—we can go up and over and eliminate the tile lines,” Mariano explained.

Applications from Pools to Architecture

The system is gaining traction in applications ranging from water features and koi ponds to architectural finishes. “If you’ve ever been to Europe, especially Italy, they have the old-fashioned Venetian walls that look like suede—that’s why it’s called ‘Suede’. It has a beautiful finish and is very easy to work with,” said Mariano. The material is produced with porcelain-based aggregates, creating a highly durable surface with baked-in color that resists fading.

Compatibility with Basecrete Systems

Suede also works in tandem with Basecrete’s existing waterproofing membranes, offering flexibility for contractors seeking layered protection. “When you have a concrete wall, you want to use the base—say the white Basecrete—and then you apply the Suede. It’s like applying paint over top of drywall or concrete, but it’s troweled on or sprayed and it’s a very workable material,” Mariano said. In some markets, such as Europe, Suede is even being used inside pools as a substitute for plaster where skilled tradespeople are scarce.

Fiberglass Mesh & Basecrete Xtreme: Reinforcing the Future

A Proven Solution for ASR Remediation

Basecrete’s fiberglass mesh system isn’t just a new material—it’s an innovation already making an impact through Basecrete Xtreme, a product unveiled late last year. Integrated directly into the compound, Xtreme has been a boon for alkali–silica reaction (ASR) remediation projects, helping contractors repair compromised concrete structures with efficiency and durability. “There are about a million fibers per square inch, and it adds more flexibility to the application,” Mariano explained.

Benefits for Plaster Bonding

The fibers also improve adhesion for plaster applications. “When you plaster over top of that, the fibers hook into the plaster, which creates a much better bond to the material,” Mariano said. This mechanical bond reduces the risk of separation between plaster and substrate, a persistent problem when water is introduced.

Growing Role in ICF Pools

The system is particularly well-suited for insulated concrete form (ICF) construction, a growing segment in the pool industry. “The reason why it’s growing so much, especially in the Caribbean, is the lack of tradespeople who know how to do the work. So they’re building them out of ICF, which is insulated concrete foam. I think it’s a perfect system and it’s easy—anybody can build a pool,” Mariano said. By eliminating the need to manually apply mesh, Basecrete’s new product simplifies ICF pool construction and reduces labor demands.

Looking Ahead: A Complete System Provider

With Nano Set, Suede, and their new fiberglass mesh Xtreme product, Basecrete is broadening its role from a single-solution provider to a complete system innovator. “At the end of the day, it’s about giving contractors and homeowners something they can trust. Our job is to make that process easier while protecting the beauty of the finish for years to come. That’s been my focus since the beginning, and it’s what keeps us pushing forward to add more products to our lineup.” — Vito Mariano, Basecrete Technologies.

Ready to take a deeper dive?

Listen to our entire conversation with Vito Mariano, President of Basecrete Technologies, on the Pool Magazine Podcast.