LED lights, automation, a spillover spa, a heater — which upgrades actually change how you use your pool? Here's our take for Pinellas County homes.
Last updated: November 2026
Short answer: The pool upgrades most worth it in Florida are the ones that add everyday use: LED lighting for evening swims, smart automation to control everything from your phone, a heater to extend the season through winter, a salt chlorinator for softer water and steadier chlorine, and a spa with a spillway. Decking, tile and screen enclosure upgrades improve looks, comfort and safety. Choose upgrades based on how you actually use the pool — evenings, entertaining, exercise or relaxation.
Curtis Pools installs every upgrade on this list across Pinellas County. Here's how each one changes your pool.
Is LED pool lighting worth it?
Yes. LED lights let you create color-changing scenes, make the pool safer to use after dark and turn the backyard into an evening space. In Florida, where summer evenings are often the most comfortable time to swim, lighting gets a lot of use.
What does pool automation do?
Smart automation controls your pump, lights, heater and water features from a panel or phone. Schedule the heater before you get home, switch the lights for a party, or run the pump at efficient times. It's one of the biggest convenience upgrades you can make.
Should I add a spa or spa spillway?
A spa adds a warm-water spot that gets used all year — especially on cool winter evenings. A spillway lets water flow from the spa into the pool for a great look and sound. Learn more on our spa and hot tub page.
Is a heater worth adding?
If you want to swim from November through March, yes. See do you need a pool heater in Pinellas?
What about salt systems and water features?
Salt chlorinators make chlorine automatically for softer-feeling water — compare them in saltwater or chlorine pool in Florida? Waterfalls, deck jets, bubblers and sheer descents add movement and sound, and we build and maintain them.
Which upgrades improve the space around the pool?
- Decking: safer, cooler and better-looking surfaces.
- Tile and coping: a fresh waterline and edge.
- Screen enclosures: fewer bugs and less debris, plus installation and repair.
- Infinity edges: a high-end look for waterfront and view lots.
See the full list on our luxury pool features and upgrades page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add upgrades to an older pool?
Most of them, yes. Some, like a spa or sun shelf, work best as part of a remodel. Read pool remodeling vs resurfacing.
Will new equipment need a new pump?
Sometimes. Spas and water features need the right flow. See repair or replace your pool pump?
Can upgrades be financed?
Yes — lighting, automation, heating, water features and enclosures can all be covered. See pool financing.
Ready to upgrade? Call Curtis Pools at (727) 559-7946 or get a free upgrade estimate from Largo's pool team since 1956.