Press Release in Pool & Spa News

Fathers of Invention
Andrew A. Pansini

Pansini’s work follows the life and industry influence of his father, Andrew L. Pansini, founder of Jandy Industries, the brand eventually acquired by Zodiac Pool Systems.
Not only did the elder Pansini establish one of the most renowned brands in pool and spa automation, but he invented the first automatic pool cleaner, his son contends. This is disputed in the industry, he said, because people don’t understand the true unfolding of events. Some believe that Howard Arneson of Arneson Products created the first auto cleaner, his version being a surface cleaner. But Andrew L. Pansini actually invented that product, his son said, then granted Arneson a license to market it. Pansini went on to invent the submersible automatic cleaner that became Jandy’s first offering.
The automatic-cleaner concept came when the elder Pansini accidentally dropped a simple garden hose in his pool and noticed how it stirred up dirt and debris.
“To me it’s a great story of success, driven by one individual who really is a pioneer in the pool industry,” said his son. “The success story of Jandy was one that I wanted to share with the pool industry.”
He said his father had a dynamic personality and impact. “His honesty and integrity were phenomenal,” he said. “And his ability to inspire other people. He was one of those guys who had a vision, and people who were around him … all wanted to be part of the story. He was so passionate for what he was doing and he was so creative.
“He led by example and inspired others. I think he was a great example for everybody to learn from.”
Andrew L. Pansini continued creating pool-related products through his 90s. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 93. “I knew that at some point I had to write a book telling the story,” his son said.
Fathers of Invention is available on websites such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as select bookstores.