By Eli Delacruz, AquaLux Sarasota
When I decided to move from San Francisco to Sarasota, Florida, I knew I was leaving behind more than just the Bay Area. I was starting over in a completely new place, both personally and professionally. San Francisco is fast-paced and constantly evolving, but Southwest Florida offered something different: a growing community, an outdoor lifestyle, and an industry with incredible potential. After seeing how important swimming pools are to everyday life in Florida, I decided to build a business around helping homeowners protect and enjoy one of their biggest investments. That decision led me to start AquaLux Sarasota LLC two years ago.
Starting a pool cleaning and maintenance company from scratch wasn’t easy. Florida’s climate means pools require attention all year long. Between the intense sun, heavy rain, humidity, and changing water conditions, keeping a pool healthy take much more than simply skimming leaves or adding chlorine. Every pool is different, and every customer has unique expectations. Over the past two years, I’ve learned the importance of consistency, communication, and always being willing to keep learning. Watching my company grow from a handful of customers into a full-service route has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
As the business continued to grow, I realized that providing excellent service wasn’t enough. I wanted to become more involved in the industry and continue improving my knowledge and professionalism. That’s what led me to join the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA), and it has been one of the best decisions I’ve made sense of moving to Florida.
One of the biggest advantages of FSPA membership is access to education. The pool industry is constantly changing, with new equipment, automation systems, energy-efficient technology, and updated safety standards. Through FSPA, I have opportunities to attend training sessions, educational programs, and industry events that help me stay current. The more I learn, the better I can serve my customers and help them protect their investment.
Another benefit is staying informed about regulations that affect our industry. As a small business owner, it can be challenging to keep up with changes in state and local requirements. FSPA helps members stay informed while also representing the interests of pool professionals throughout Florida. Having that support gives me confidence that I’m operating responsibly and following industry best practices.
The networking opportunities have also been incredibly valuable. Through local chapter meetings and events, I’ve met other pool professionals, manufacturers, suppliers, and business owners who genuinely want to help each other succeed. Instead of seeing everyone as competitors, I’ve found a community that’s willing to share knowledge, offer advice, and work together to strengthen the industry. For someone who relocated across the country, those connections have made Florida feel like home.
Finally, being an FSPA member helps build trust with customers. Homeowners want to hire a company they can rely on. Displaying the FSPA member logo lets them know that my company is committed to professionalism, ethical business practices, and continuing education. That credibility makes a real difference when building long-term relationships with clients.
Looking back, moving across the country to start a business was a leap of faith, but it was worth it. Building this business has been an incredible journey filled with challenges, lessons, and opportunities. Joining the Florida Swimming Pool Association has played an important role in that journey by providing education, support, and a community of professionals who are passionate about what they do.
Today, I don’t just feel like I own a pool service company. I feel like I’ve built a career, become part of an industry I truly enjoy, and found a professional home here in Southwest Florida.
