Finding reliable pool equipment brands is important for homeowners and pool service professionals. Over the years, many people have relied on Compupool for their saltwater chlorinators and other pool products. But today, there is a lot of confusion: is Compupool still in business? The answer is not as simple as “yes” or “no.” Let’s explore Compupool’s history, what happened to the company, the current status, and what this means for pool owners who use their products.
The Rise Of Compupool
Compupool started as a pool equipment manufacturer in Australia. Founded in the late 1990s, the company became known for saltwater chlorinators—devices that use salt to produce chlorine for swimming pools. These systems were popular because they made pool maintenance easier and reduced the need to handle chemicals. Compupool’s flagship product, the Compu Chlor series, was praised for its reliability and performance.
By the early 2000s, Compupool expanded into international markets, especially the United States and Europe. The company offered a wide range of products:
- Saltwater chlorinators
- Replacement salt cells
- Pool pumps
- Controllers and automation systems
Compupool’s products were often more affordable than those from larger brands like Hayward or Pentair. This helped them gain a solid customer base, especially among DIY pool owners looking for quality at a lower price.
Compupool also invested in simple, easy-to-understand manuals and support materials. Their step-by-step guides made installation less intimidating for people who were not experts. This was unusual at the time, since many pool equipment companies used technical language that confused ordinary users.
Another reason for their early success was their willingness to listen to customer feedback. Compupool engineers would sometimes update designs based on common complaints, which helped them fix early problems and improve the next generation of products. This customer-focused approach built trust and encouraged word-of-mouth recommendations.
What Made Compupool Popular
There are a few reasons why Compupool earned a good reputation:
- Affordable pricing: Their products cost less than bigger brands, making them attractive for budget-conscious buyers.
- Simple installation: Many pool owners could install Compupool systems themselves, saving money on professional installation.
- Compatibility: Compupool offered replacement cells for their own and some competing brands, making it easier for customers to find what they needed.
- Good performance: Most users reported that Compupool chlorinators kept their pools clean with little trouble.
One detail that set Compupool apart was their focus on modular design. For example, many of their control units and cells could be replaced separately, which was not always possible with other brands. This meant that a user could replace a failed cell without changing the whole system, saving money and reducing waste.
Another practical advantage was their use of universal fittings. Compupool units often worked with existing plumbing and electrical connections, making upgrades or replacements less of a hassle. Many owners appreciated not having to re-plumb their entire system just to install a new chlorinator.
However, as with many fast-growing companies, challenges began to appear.
Signs Of Trouble: Issues And Customer Complaints
Around 2010, reports of problems with Compupool began to surface online. Users complained about several issues:
- Product reliability: Some chlorinators failed sooner than expected.
- Warranty support: Customers found it hard to get replacements or repairs under warranty.
- Customer service: Many users struggled to reach the company or get clear answers.
- Spare parts availability: Replacement parts became harder to find, especially in North America.
As the number of Compupool systems in use grew, so did the visibility of these issues. Some users mentioned that the digital displays would fail or that control boards would stop working after only a year or two. Others described delays of weeks or months in getting a response to warranty requests, which left their pools untreated for long periods.
An often-overlooked detail: Some of these problems were made worse by differences in electrical standards between countries. For instance, Australian models sometimes had compatibility problems when installed in the US without proper adaptation. This led to confusion about which parts would work and whether certain failures were covered under warranty.
These issues started to affect Compupool’s reputation. Online forums and review websites featured negative experiences, and some pool service companies stopped recommending their products. This was a warning sign that the company might be facing bigger problems.
The Shift: Compupool’s Rebranding And Business Changes
By 2015, it became clear that Compupool was facing serious difficulties. The company began to rebrand some of its products under new names, such as Autochlor and Evolution. This confused many customers who were looking for the familiar Compupool name.
It’s important to understand that rebranding is a common move for companies in trouble. Sometimes, it’s done to escape past problems, or because the business has been sold or merged. In Compupool’s case, both things seem to have happened.
The rebranding was not just cosmetic. In some cases, new management teams took over, and some product designs were updated or changed to meet new regulations. This meant that, while the new brands looked similar to Compupool on the outside, the internal parts or features might be different.
For owners of older Compupool equipment, this added more confusion about which parts would fit and who could provide support.
Timeline Of Key Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| Late 1990s | Compupool founded in Australia |
| Early 2000s | Expansion into US and Europe |
| 2010–2015 | Increasing customer complaints |
| 2015–2018 | Rebranding to Autochlor/Evolution |
| 2018–Present | Unclear company status, support issues |
The most important thing for pool owners: the original Compupool brand is no longer active in the United States and many other markets. The company’s Australian division has changed names and focus. Some of the technology and designs live on under different brands.
Credit: www.poolsupplyunlimited.com
Current Status: Is Compupool Still In Business?
So, is Compupool still in business? The answer depends on what you mean by “Compupool. ”
- The original Compupool Pty Ltd company is no longer active under the Compupool name in most markets, especially the US.
- Some of its products are still made and sold, but under different brand names—mainly Autochlor and Evolution.
- Support and warranty services for older Compupool products are almost gone in North America and Europe.
- Replacement parts are still available, but often from third-party suppliers, not the original company.
Where Did Compupool Go?
The main company in Australia went through several changes. Key engineers and managers moved to other pool equipment companies or started new businesses. The technology behind Compupool’s salt chlorinators is now used by companies like Autochlor and AIS Water in Australia.
Meanwhile, in the US, the main distributor for Compupool, Compupool Products USA, closed its doors around 2018. Their website went offline, and phone support stopped. Most pool supply stores stopped carrying Compupool-branded items.
Many former Compupool dealers shifted to selling compatible parts or alternative brands. Some tried to provide support for existing Compupool owners, but their ability to help was limited once the official supply chain ended. This left many customers relying on forums and other pool owners for advice.
What Remains Of Compupool?
If you search for “Compupool” online today, you’ll find:
- Old product manuals and user guides
- Replacement cells and parts from third-party sellers
- Forum discussions about where to get support
- New products from Autochlor or Evolution that look similar to old Compupool models
It’s common to see parts labeled “Compupool compatible” or “for CPSC36” on pool supply websites. These are usually not made by the original company, but by independent manufacturers who saw a need in the market. Some of these replacement parts work well, while others may have a shorter lifespan.
In summary: Compupool, as it was known, is no longer in business in most countries. But the technology and some products still exist under new names.
What This Means For Existing Compupool Owners
If you own a Compupool saltwater chlorinator or other equipment, you might worry about what this means for you. Here’s what you need to know:
Warranty And Technical Support
Most warranties from Compupool are no longer valid. If your unit fails, you’ll likely need to pay for repairs or replacements yourself. Getting support from the original company is almost impossible in North America and Europe.
Some third-party repair shops offer help, but you must check their reputation before using them.
A useful tip: If you have a local pool service company, ask if they have experience with Compupool systems. Some professionals stocked spare parts or learned “workarounds” for common problems, and may be able to extend the life of your system.
Finding Replacement Parts
The good news is that replacement salt cells and parts are still available for most Compupool models. Many companies make “compatible” replacement cells that fit Compupool systems. However, these are not made by the original manufacturer, so quality can vary.
Here’s a quick comparison of replacement cell options:
| Source | Original Compupool | Third-Party Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Rare | Good |
| Price | High (if found) | Moderate |
| Warranty | No | Varies (6–24 months) |
| Quality | Original | Varies |
Not all third-party cells are created equal. Some reputable pool supply companies test their products and offer decent support. Others may import cheaper cells that look similar but use lower-quality materials. If a replacement cell is much cheaper than others, check for certifications, real user reviews, and warranty terms before you buy.
Upgrading Or Replacing Your System
If your Compupool system fails and can’t be repaired, you may need to replace it with a new brand. The good news is that modern saltwater chlorinators are easier to install and more reliable than before. Brands like Hayward, Pentair, and CircuPool offer systems that fit the same plumbing and electrical setup.
If you want to upgrade, consider:
- The size of your pool (gallons/liters)
- Your budget for a new system
- The local support and warranty for the brand you choose
When planning an upgrade, don’t just look at price or maximum chlorine output. Think about features like self-cleaning cells, digital displays, and ease of programming. Some newer units can even connect to smart home systems or send alerts to your phone.
These features can save you time and make pool care less stressful.
Risks Of Keeping An Old Compupool System
There are two main risks:
- No official support: If something major breaks, you may be out of luck.
- Parts scarcity: Some parts, like control boards, may not be available in the future.
A less obvious risk is that, as more time passes, fewer pool professionals will remember how to service old Compupool models. If you rely on outside help, this could make repairs slower and more expensive.
If your Compupool system is working fine, you can keep using it, but start planning for a replacement. It’s smart to check your model number and see what replacement parts are still easy to find.
How To Identify Your Compupool Model
Many pool owners don’t remember exactly which Compupool model they have. This is important when searching for replacement parts.
Look for a label on the main control box or salt cell. Typical Compupool models include:
- CPSC series (CPSC16, CPSC24, CPSC36)
- Compu Chlor series (CPX, CP, etc.)
- Autochlor (older models made by Compupool)
- Generic replacement cells (made to fit Compupool)
If you’re unsure, take a clear photo of your unit and compare it with images online or ask a pool service professional.
Another tip: Keep any manuals, receipts, or installation paperwork in a safe place. Even an old email invoice can help you identify your system’s specifications, which makes finding compatible parts easier.
Alternatives To Compupool Products
If you decide to move on from Compupool, you have good alternatives. Here are a few popular brands and what they offer:
Hayward
- One of the largest pool equipment makers in the world
- Offers AquaRite salt chlorinators
- Good warranty and widespread support
Pentair
- Known for reliable, high-quality equipment
- Intellichlor series is their salt system
- Easy to find parts and support
Circupool
- Focuses on salt systems for the US market
- Many models designed to fit old Compupool plumbing
- Affordable and good customer service
Autochlor And Ais Water (australia)
- Successors to the Compupool technology
- Mainly available in Australia and some international markets
- Direct support for newer models
Some pool owners find success with other brands like Zodiac or Jandy, especially if they are upgrading other equipment at the same time. It’s worth asking your pool service company which brands they support most often.
Comparison of Key Features:
| Brand | Warranty (years) | Support Availability | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward | 3 | Global | $900–$1,400 |
| Pentair | 2–3 | Global | $1,000–$1,600 |
| CircuPool | 4–7 | US-focused | $800–$1,200 |
| Autochlor | 2–3 | Australia/Asia | $700–$1,200 |
Credit: www.discountsaltpool.com
Lessons Learned From Compupool’s Story
The story of Compupool is a good lesson for pool owners and buyers. Here are some key takeaways:
- Brand stability matters: Cheaper brands can save money but may not last. Choosing a well-established company can protect your investment.
- Warranties are only as good as the company: If the business closes, the warranty is worthless.
- Cross-compatibility helps: Buying equipment that fits standard plumbing and electrical setups makes future upgrades easier.
- Check for local support: If a product is only sold online and has no support in your area, think twice before buying.
A detail many buyers miss: Some online “exclusive” deals are for products that are not supported by local service teams. If you have a problem, you may need to ship the unit back to another country or wait weeks for a reply.
How To Make Smart Pool Equipment Choices
If you’re shopping for a new saltwater chlorinator or other pool equipment, here are tips to make a smart choice:
- Research the brand: Look for companies with a long history and good reviews.
- Ask about warranty and support: Make sure you can get help if something goes wrong.
- Check part availability: Make sure replacement parts are easy to find.
- Compare features: Look for features you will actually use, not just marketing claims.
- Read real user reviews: Forums and online groups often share honest experiences.
One non-obvious tip: Sometimes, local pool stores have better long-term support than big online retailers. They may help you with repairs or troubleshooting even after the sale.
Another insight: If you have an older system, keep the manual and any paperwork. This makes finding parts or help much easier later.
Something beginners often miss is checking electrical compatibility with your home’s power supply. Always confirm voltage and wiring needs before buying a new system to avoid installation surprises.
The Role Of Third-party Replacement Parts
With Compupool mostly gone, many companies stepped in to sell replacement cells and parts. Some of these are high-quality, while others are less reliable. When shopping for third-party parts:
- Look for clear warranty terms: Good suppliers offer at least a 1-year warranty.
- Check for customer reviews: See what other users say about the product.
- Ask about return policies: In case the part does not fit or fails soon after purchase.
A practical example: If your Compupool CPSC36 cell fails, you can often buy a “generic” CPSC36 cell online. It will fit your system, but may not last as long as the original. If you get 2–3 years of service, that’s typical for third-party cells.
Another detail: Some third-party suppliers offer live chat or phone support. Even if they are not the original company, being able to ask questions before buying can help you avoid mistakes and choose the right part.
Compupool’s Legacy In The Pool Industry
Even though Compupool is not in business as before, their impact remains. They helped make saltwater chlorinators more affordable and popular. Many of the features now standard in other brands—like easy-to-read displays and self-cleaning cells—were first seen in Compupool models.
Some of their engineers now work at other companies. The technology continues to develop, making pool care easier for everyone.
Their willingness to experiment with new designs pushed competitors to improve as well. Today’s pool owners benefit from innovations that Compupool helped popularize, such as modular parts and easy-to-service systems.
For a deeper look at the saltwater chlorinator market and history, see this Wikipedia entry on salt water chlorination.
Credit: www.inyopools.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Compupool Still Making New Products?
No, the original Compupool company is not making new products under the Compupool name. Some similar products are made under other brand names like Autochlor and Evolution, especially in Australia.
Can I Still Get Parts For My Compupool Salt Cell?
Yes, you can find replacement salt cells and some spare parts from third-party suppliers. These are often not made by the original company, so quality and warranty may be different. It’s important to check reviews before buying.
What Should I Do If My Compupool System Stops Working?
If your system stops working, first check if a simple part (like the salt cell) needs replacement. If the control unit fails, you may need to replace the whole system with a new brand. Pool service professionals can help you choose a compatible replacement.
Are Newer Saltwater Chlorinators Better Than Compupool Models?
Most newer chlorinators have better reliability, easier controls, and longer warranties. Brands like Hayward, Pentair, and CircuPool offer advanced features and solid support. Upgrading is often worth it if your Compupool system is old or failing.
How Can I Avoid This Problem With Other Pool Equipment?
Choose brands with a strong history and good support. Ask about warranty service in your country and check that replacement parts are easy to get. Reading real user reviews can also help avoid future problems.
In the world of pool equipment, companies come and go. Compupool was once a popular choice, but today it is no longer in business in most markets. While the brand is mostly gone, its technology lives on in other products.
If you own Compupool equipment, support is limited, but replacement parts are still available. As you plan future upgrades, focus on brands that offer long-term support and reliability. This will help you enjoy your pool with less worry for years to come.