True, not cheap, but considering the quotes I got for the same setup from two pool compaies were well more than double, I’m happy. Also, keep in mind that the heater by itself is $2k, and this was a complete rip and replace job. All existing equipment was replaced. If all you are doing is a pump replacement, you can do it yourself for a couple grand including the aqua link stuff.
I had this same problem for months after install. I was ready to install a wire but didn’t have the time. I ended up playing with my routers type of security encryption and no more problems. I found this solution on a pool forum with others complaing of the same problem. I always had good signal.
New antenna just came out few months ago (Iaqualink 2.0) that from what I heard fixes this problem. But if you have the old one like me change encryption settings and you should get it working to 100%. Its in the TKIP and AES settings if I remember right. I think I had both but switched to only one. I use WPA2.
For what its worth I am using a hayward ecostar in relay control mode and using 2 insteon i/o lincs along with the relay in my hayward solar controller to control the pump speed. In addition I am using intermatic actuators connected to an insteon EZ-Flora to control 4 water features in the pool. I use Vera 3 with Altsteon to accomplish this. I also use an Intermatic CA3750 for controlling the main power to the pump and my pool light. This is more of a do it yourself approach but it works. I use PLEG to automate the pool with scenes and to provided some visual feedback. Attached is a screenshot of the pool controls.
I just installed my AquaLink 2.0. I’ve not had any issues so far. I’d like to be able to connect it to my Vera, but that isn’t a deal breaker for me. I hope that one day it will have Vera integration and Vera will get Amazon Echo integration. Then I can say “turn on the hot tub and notify me when ready” and have Alexa say “the hot tub is warm”. Now that would be cool!
Yea I’m with you on the iAquaLink and VERA, but so far the only working solution is http://www.autelis.com/ and its 269.99. I haven’t wanted to add that after spending the $ on upgrading to iAqualink.
I theory Vera could have a plugin that sends http commands directly to the iAqualink as it supports that. But without an API no one knows or has put the effort to figure it out.
The autelis will plug into your existing iAqualink just like an extra remote and can run on the side of your existing setup. So It works, if you pay the 270.00 for vera control.