Getting to Know Pentair
As one of the leading manufacturers of pool, spa, and water treatment equipment worldwide, Pentair has built a reputation for quality and reliability over its 50+ year history. Founded in 1966 and headquartered in London, UK, Pentair employs over 10,000 people globally and brings in $3 billion in annual revenue.
Pentair started by producing hydraulic components for farming equipment, later expanding into swimming pool products with the acquisitions of Sta-Rite and Pentair Pool Products. Today, Pentair offers residential and commercial solutions for pools, spas, irrigation, filtration, flow management, and more. Their expansive product line includes pumps, filters, heaters, automation systems, valves, cleaners, sanitizers, controls, lights, and water softeners.
Top Pentair Products Reviewed
Let‘s analyze some of Pentair‘s most popular product lines for residential use:
Pentair Pool Pumps
Pentair is well-regarded for its energy efficient and near-silent pool pumps like the IntelliFlo Variable Speed Pump ($1,100). This intelligent pump automatically adjusts performance to save up to 90% in electricity costs compared to traditional pumps. It features built-in diagnostics, an operator interface, and compatibility with automation systems. With over 15,000 positive reviews, the IntelliFlo line dominates the variable speed category.
On a budget? The SuperFlo Single Speed Pump ($499) provides reliable flow for up to a 40,000 gallon pool. While not as advanced as the IntelliFlo, it still saves up to $620 per year in electricity. Owners praise SuperFlo‘s quiet operation and low maintenance requirements.
Pentair Pool Heaters
To extend the swimming season, Pentair heaters like the MasterTemp Heater ($1,500) efficiently warm pool water. MasterTemp uses up to 35% less gas than competitors and has built-in sensors to detect issues and prevent downtime. Owners particularly like the LCD control panel that displays temperature, diagnostics, and error messages for easy monitoring and troubleshooting.
Pentair Pool Filters
Effective filtration is critical for clean, sanitary water. Cartridge filters like the Clean & Clear Plus ($350) provide enhanced dirt capturing through 150 square feet of pleated, 4-ply filter media. The easy access filter lid and quick-release clamp make cleaning fast and frustration-free. This filter consistently earns 5 star reviews for keeping water crystal clear with minimal pressure loss as filters load with debris.
Pentair Water Softeners
Hard water wreaks havoc on plumbing and appliances. Enter Pentair water softeners like the Structural Series Twin Alternating Water Softener ($2,000). It prevents scale buildup through a sediment filter and patented ChlorGuard technology. Owners love the twin tank design – while one tank regenerates, the second provides a continuous flow of soft water. The LCD display tracks usage and allows scheduling of automatic cleanings.
Assessing the Value of Pentair Products
Pentair products come at a premium cost compared to competitors. But most owners say the higher upfront investment pays off through energy savings and reduced maintenance requirements over time. In product comparisons, Pentair consistently rates as the most durable, efficient, technologically-advanced, and longest lasting.
Consider that the IntelliFlo pool pump costs 35-85% more than basic single speed pumps upfront, but saves $620 per year on electricity. The IntelliFlo pump would pay for itself in under 2 years and save tens of thousands over its 15-20 year lifespan. This demonstrates the long term value offered by Pentair‘s innovative technology.
Additionally, Pentair provides strong warranties (up to 5 years for pumps) to protect against early failure, ensuring years of reliable service. Compared to less expensive pumps that lack advanced functionality, require frequent repairs, and need replacing every 5-7 years, Pentair pumps save significantly over their extended lifetimes.
Pentair‘s Customer Service
While Pentair receives consistently positive reviews for product performance and technology, their customer service earns more mixed reviews.
On the plus side, Pentair provides helpful online resources like manuals, FAQs, maintenance videos, and troubleshooting guides. Their US-based customer support team generally resolves issues promptly over phone and email. Pentair also runs a highly rated pool school certification program for pool professionals.
However, some customers report extended response times and tedious processes getting warranty claims approved, especially when Third party vendors sold the products. Also, parts orders can take up to two weeks to fulfill which is difficult when pools can’t function properly without them. While less common, some customers also felt Pentair refused accountability for defects.
So while mostly positive, Pentair’s customer service still has room for improvement – especially regarding parts availability and speed of warranty claims resolution. But their broad resources and mostly responsive team still beat competitors.
Is Pentair Worth It?
Considering their leading technology, proven longevity, energy efficiency, and mostly positive reception – Pentair products live up to their premium price points for homeowners who prioritize value over upfront cost savings. Pentair dominates rankings for performance, reliability, and innovations that save money over decades of use.
While Pentair lags in customer service compared to product performance, they still beat out competitors in overall reputation. Additionally, purchasing through authorized dealers helps ensure better support.
So for buyers willing to pay more initially for advanced features, extreme durability, and long term savings – Pentair remains a leading brand in residential water solutions. Their products stand out as some of the best designed, most effective, and longest lasting in the industry.
Finding Pentair Discounts
As a premium brand, Pentair rarely offers sales or discounts directly. Instead, check authorized brick and mortar dealers like Leslie‘s Pool Supplies, Inyo Pools, and Pool & Spa Depot who run seasonal promotions on Pentair products. Major online retailers like InTheSwim and Amazon also regularly discount select models.
You can save 10-15% on Pentair by purchasing last year’s models, buying certified refurbished units directly through Pentair, or looking for open box specials from major retailers. Combining these purchase methods with seasonal sales events will net the highest discounts.
Leslie’s Pool Supplies runs the best Pentair promotions like 15% off all pool equipment (happening now) and additional bundle discounts when purchasing pumps plus filters or heaters. Sign up for retailer newsletters to receive notifications about upcoming Pentair sales events.
Where To Buy Pentair Products
While a few models are available on Pentair’s website, they mainly sell wholesale direct to pool builders and technical retailers. So consumers should purchase Pentair products through one of their authorized dealers:
- Leslie‘s Pool Supplies (Best Prices & Promotions)
- Home Depot (Convenient In-Store Pickup)
- InTheSwim (Huge Selection, Discount Pool Supplies)
- Amazon (Fast, Free Shipping with Prime)
- Ace Hardware (Helpful Neighborhood Experts)
I suggest checking prices across retailers to find the best deal on the Pentair model you want. As an authorized dealer, purchasing from one of these retailers ensures you receive Pentair’s strong product warranties too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns Pentair?
John L. Stauch is the President and CEO of Pentair PLC. Pentair operates as a publicly traded company under PNR on the New York Stock Exchange.
Does Pentair ship internationally?
Pentair provides shipping primarily within the United States and Canada only. They do not currently ship products internationally except through 3rd party freight forwarders.
What are Pentair‘s shipping policies?
Pentair offers free shipping in the continental US on orders over $49 when purchasing directly from their website. Most authorized dealers also provide free shipping on Pentair orders over $50-100.
What is Pentair‘s return policy?
Pentair sets a 60-day money back guarantee on products purchased directly through their website. Return requirements and restocking fees vary when purchasing through authorized dealers instead. Check retailer policies before purchasing.
How do I contact Pentair?
You can contact Pentair customer support by phone at (877) 270-9417 or submit questions through their online contact form.
The Bottom Line
For homeowners seeking advanced water solutions that save money over years of reliable use, Pentair delivers excellent value despite higher upfront investments. Backed by leading energy efficiency, innovative features, robust warranties, and proven longevity – Pentair dominates rankings making them my top recommendation for residential pool, spa, and water treatment needs.
