California's New Pool & Spa Rules: What You Need to Know About Smart Pumps and Heating in 2025

Big changes are coming for California pool and spa owners, and if you're in the Golden State (or sell to folks who are), it's time to get ahead of them. Starting in late 2025, California is rolling out new energy rules for pool pumps and heaters that are all about cutting emissions, shifting energy use, and promoting cleaner power. Here’s what it means and how to stay ready.

New Rules for Pool Pumps: Smarter, Cleaner, and Internet-Connected

Beginning September 29, 2025, all new pool controls sold in California will need to comply with Flexible Demand Appliance Standards (FDAS). That means your pool pump controls need to be smart.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• They’ll need to be able to connect to the internet
• They’ll default to operating during off-peak hours (when energy is cleaner and cheaper)
• Typically, that means running your pool equipment from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., when solar energy is at its peak

The goal is to take pressure off the electric grid and help California hit its carbon neutrality goals by 2045. It’s a big shift, but it matches how energy is changing across the state.

According to California’s Energy Commission, the new smart controls will cost a bit more up front — maybe around $70 more — but they’re projected to save consumers over $1,100 across the product’s lifetime.

Important: This rule applies to new installs and replacements only. If you’ve already got a system in place, you’re not required to retrofit.

New Heating Rules: Gas is Out

The next rule starts January 1, 2026, and it’s a big one if you’re thinking about heating a pool or spa.

California will no longer allow gas heaters to be installed as the primary heating source on any new pools or spas. If you're replacing an existing gas heater, you're fine. But if you're adding a heater for the first time, you’ll need to go with:

• A heat pump
• A solar thermal system
• Or a heat recovery system

This change is focused on lowering emissions and encouraging cleaner energy options for heating water.

What This Means for Pool Owners (and Service Pros)

If you’re a pool or spa owner in California, it’s time to start thinking smart. And if you’re in the pool service business, these rule changes are a big opportunity.

Start educating your customers early. Help them understand what these changes mean and how to plan ahead — especially if they’re thinking of upgrading controls or adding heat.

At AquaDoc, we’re keeping a close eye on all regulatory changes so our customers always stay ahead. Whether you're running a hot tub in the hills or managing a backyard pool in the Valley, we're here to keep things balanced and clear.

Have questions? Let us know. These changes may seem like a hassle, but they’re setting the stage for a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable pool season in the years ahead.

Did You Know?

California pool owners are responsible for over 1.2 million residential pools — meaning small changes in energy use can have a big impact across the state.

Stay ready. Stay balanced. Stay AquaDoc.