2022 SOI Service Report

INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT: S.R.SMITH

Advances in lighting technology and designs that make lighting renovation fast and easy are driving growth in pool makeovers. AQUA spoke with Stephanie Hartgraves, Professional Trade & Lighting Marketing Manager, S.R.Smith, about the company’s new LED technology, recent acquisition and more. 

AQUA: WHAT IS NEW FROM S.R.SMITH THAT YOU WANT AQUA READERS TO KNOW ABOUT?

Stephanie Hartgraves, S.R.Smith: As the Lighting Marketing Manager, several products are worth mentioning. First, we recently launched a new, largeformat (10-inch) LED light called the keloXL, the ideal replacement option for older pools. This LED light is designed to fit into older style niches with little to no modifications. Additionally, no bonding or grounding is required, so installations are safer, faster and easier. Early customer response to this light has been incredibly positive! Readers can learn more at srsmith.com/keloXL. Our Mod-Lite LED light continues to be our most rapidly growing nicheless LED light. Mod-Lite is the only light in the industry that features PowerPass® Wireless Technology, a game-changer for many builders and service techs. Servicing pool lights traditionally is a painful process that requires draining the pool and pulling lots of cord. We like to say, “Now, changing a pool light is as easy as changing a light bulb — the Mod-Lite wireless lamp module can be taken in and out with a twist of the wrist in under three seconds while underwater!”

AQUA: WHAT DO YOU SEE FOR THE FUTURE OF POOL LIGHTING INNOVATIONS?

SH: We are in the process of developing a new version of Mod-Lite that will be compatible with the most popular pool control systems and their automation apps. Thanks to AQUA’s State of the Industry Survey over the last two years, we have heard loud and clear that the industry desires a universal lighting solution that works across multiple control panels and automation apps. More than 80% of AQUA readers surveyed said they would be interested in a universal light. I am happy to report that this product is moving into beta testing and should be available in the second half of the year. If readers want to learn more about the Mod-Lite platform, they can visit www.Mod-Lite. com.

AQUA: WHAT ELSE IS S.R.SMITH UP TO THESE DAYS?

SH: Our removable deck products category is growing. Many pool owners did not have slides or diving boards because they did not want them permanently attached to the pool deck. In response, we introduced our SlideAway product in 2019, the first CPSC-compliant removable pool slide. It has been extremely popular. And now, we are getting ready to launch the industry’s first removable diving board called the DiveAway™. This new category gives the pool owners the ability to customize the pool experience in ways never imagined. Lastly, I am happy to share that we are celebrating our 90th pool season as a company this year! And in late 2021, we became part of the Fluidra family of brands, which is excellent for our business and will help us better serve our customers and enhance the pool experience for all.