Let’s set the scene. Imagine Friday night. The kids want to splash in the pool, but you’re craving a quiet soak in the bubbling spa. With so many pool controllers out there, some let you switch zones, while others make you jump through hoops just to get the temperature right. Intermatic’s remote control system has become popular because it promises easy, wireless command over your backyard water features. But does it actually deliver when you want to split control between the pool and the spa?
We’re about to dig into how these remotes really work, where things can get tricky, and what you can—and can’t—do with them. Grab your favorite drink, because I’m going to break this down in plain language, with a few real-life examples along the way.
Understanding Intermatic Pool Remotes: The Basics
First, let’s get on the same page about what an Intermatic pool remote even is. Intermatic is a brand that’s been in the pool control game for years, making devices that help you manage everything from lights and pumps to heaters and spa jets…all without leaving your pool float. Most folks have what’s called a wireless handheld remote or a wall-mounted control panel as part of their Intermatic system.
But here’s the thing—just because it’s “wireless” or “smart” doesn’t mean it can magically do anything. Every pool and spa setup is a little different. The remote itself is just one piece of the puzzle. You’ve got the main control center (sometimes called an automation panel), relays, valves, a little bit of plumbing wizardry, and a dash of electrical know-how all working together.
Honestly, think of it like a TV remote. It can only control what the TV is wired up for. If your Intermatic controller was installed to manage the pool and the spa as two separate zones, your remote probably lets you pick and choose. But if everything’s wired to one big “on/off” switch, you’re limited. That’s why no two backyards are exactly the same when it comes to pool control.
How Intermatic Pool Remotes Switch Between Pool and Spa
You might be wondering, “What does ‘switching between pool and spa’ even mean—do I have to unplug things or flip levers?” Thankfully, it’s usually much simpler. Most Intermatic pool systems with a remote have a “pool mode” and a “spa mode.” With the push of a button, you can direct the system to:
- Send water only to the pool (for swimming)
- Send water only to the spa (for soaking)
- Sometimes, control both at once with specific settings
This magic happens using automatic valve actuators. When you press “Spa” on the remote, the controller sends a signal to rotate the valves and reroute water flow entirely to the spa. The pool’s jets and heater turn off or switch modes too. Press “Pool,” and everything flips back. If your system was set up properly, the remote does all the heavy lifting. You don’t need to run out in your robe to turn knobs or press buttons at the equipment pad.
But—and this is important—not every Intermatic remote setup is wired for full separation. Sometimes, a basic install lets you pick “pool” or “spa,” but not run both independently at the same time. That’s why your setup matters just as much as the remote itself.
Independent VS Linked Control: What’s Possible With Intermatic?
Here’s where it gets a little technical, but I’ll keep it simple. The big question isn’t just, “Can Intermatic remotes control spa and pool separately?” It’s, “To what degree do you want them to act independently?”
With a standard Intermatic automation system, you usually get three main possibilities:
- Linked mode: Pool and spa can’t run together. Remote toggles between them, using automatic valves to reroute everything.
- Partial independence: You can run separate features in the pool (like lights or water features) while the spa is heating, but water circulation still flips between modes.
- True independence (rare): Only with advanced installs or dual-pump systems. The remote can manage both pool and spa simultaneously—but this is uncommon and requires special plumbing and programming.
The majority of homeowners will find their remote toggles between pool and spa, but can control extras (like lights, booster pumps, or heaters) individually. If you crave full, separate control (say, hot jets in the spa and waterfall in the pool at the same time), you’ll need a high-end setup and a little help from a pro.
Common Problems: When The Remote Won’t Switch Right
Let’s be honest—technology isn’t always magical. Nothing kills the “spa night” mood like a remote that won’t listen. If your Intermatic pool remote isn’t switching between pool and spa the way you expect, there are a few classic culprits.
- Valve actuators stuck or broken: If the automatic valves are jammed or out of sync, your remote’s commands won’t actually reroute the water.
- Low battery or signal issues: Wireless remotes love to eat batteries. If yours is sluggish or unresponsive, try swapping in a fresh set.
- Out of sync or unpaired: Sometimes the remote loses sync with the main panel. You’ll need to pair it again by following the instructions in your manual or on the panel’s menu.
- Software/code glitches: Very occasionally, a bug in the controller’s firmware or code causes “stuck” modes. Power-cycling the control panel or doing a reset can fix this.
Here’s my tip: Try the simple fixes first—new batteries, checking for obstructions, or re-syncing the remote. Only call the pool tech if you’ve ruled out the easy stuff!
Pairing And Programming: Setting Up Separate Controls
If your Intermatic remote didn’t come pre-programmed or isn’t behaving, don’t worry. Most models let you program or pair specific functions, so you can get the separation you want. The process usually looks something like this:
- Enter the control panel menu (often via a touchscreen or tiny buttons)
- Choose which devices or “circuits” (pool, spa, lights) to assign to remote buttons
- Pair the remote by pressing the sync or learn button until the remote flashes
- Test to make sure each button triggers the right action—pool, spa, or both
Take your time with this. If you’re lost, there’s no shame in grabbing the manual or checking Intermatic’s online support. Sometimes, a reset is needed to clear out old settings or code. Just make sure you know what each remote button does before you hand it off to the kids!
Troubleshooting: Why The Pool And Spa Might Not Separate
Ever feel like you’re pressing all the right buttons…and nothing changes? You’re not alone. Sometimes it’s not user error—it’s the way your equipment was installed. The most common reasons your Intermatic pool remote can’t control the pool and spa separately:
- Single pump system: If both the pool and spa share the same circulation pump, you can only send water one way at a time. The remote toggles “pool” or “spa”—not both.
- Valves wired as one unit: Some setups have all the valves on a single relay, meaning there’s no separate command for each zone.
- Incorrect programming: If the installer didn’t assign spa and pool to separate circuits in the code, the remote can’t tell them apart.
- Outdated technology: Older Intermatic systems may not support true independent control, especially if you’re using a universal remote instead of the brand’s latest model.
If you’re dreaming of running your spa and pool at the same time, talk to a pool automation specialist. Sometimes a simple wiring or programming tweak opens up more options—but sometimes you’ll need an equipment upgrade.
Comparing Intermatic Pool Remotes To Universal Alternatives
Say your Intermatic remote feels too limited—can you swap to a universal remote system for more flexibility? Here’s the scoop:
- Intermatic remotes: Best compatibility, less hassle with pairing or code resets, but limited by how your specific pool and spa are wired.
- Universal remotes: Can sometimes learn commands from multiple brands and add features like app control, but not all functions (like valve rotation) may work out of the box. Sometimes you’ll need complicated pairing sequences or extra code modules to get full separation.
- Manual panels: Old-school option. No remote at all—just walk out and press the button each time. Bulletproof, but not exactly luxurious.
If you already have an Intermatic system, your best bet for separate pool and spa control is making sure everything’s set up right from the ground up—plumbing, valves, relays, and programming. Swapping the remote alone won’t give you extra features if the hardware behind the scenes isn’t wired for it.
Why Separate Pool And Spa Control Matters
It might sound picky, but being able to control your spa and pool separately can make a world of difference. Want a quick, hot soak after a long day? No need to heat gallons of pool water—just fire up the spa from inside your house. Or maybe the kids want to swim while you relax. The right setup lets everyone enjoy what they want, when they want.
Plus, there’s the whole convenience and energy-saving angle. Running both zones separately means you’re not wasting money heating water or running pumps you don’t need. Intermatic’s promise is about giving you that flexibility—but only if everything’s installed and programmed with separation in mind.
If your current system doesn’t let you split things up, don’t lose hope. It’s usually possible to upgrade with new relays or smarter programming. Sometimes, just reading the manual reveals hidden features you never knew existed!
The Bottom Line: Can Intermatic Pool Remotes Control Spa And Pool Separately?
Here’s the honest answer: Yes, Intermatic pool remotes can control spa and pool separately—but only if your system was installed for that purpose. Most modern Intermatic automation panels let you toggle between pool and spa modes with the remote, thanks to automatic valves and clever wiring. Truly independent control (running both at once) is less common and requires a more advanced setup.
Think of the remote as the messenger, not the mastermind. It can only do what the equipment and programming allow. Getting true separation might mean digging into the control panel, resetting or pairing the remote, or even having a professional tweak the wiring or code.
If you’re still scratching your head, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Pool techs and Intermatic’s own support can walk you through getting the most from your system. In the end, with the right remote setup, you can spend less time fiddling with buttons and more time enjoying your pool or spa—however you like.
