Nothing soothes a tired body like a warm dip in the swimming pool after a hard day’s work. Imagine having your very own private pool to indulge in a relaxing swim to unwind your tired muscles or using the pool for a vigorous workout. Now you can say goodbye to the gym memberships where you have been sweating it out for months to get that perfectly toned body.
The concept of private swimming pools has caught on the fancy of many individuals and now it is difficult to find a home being constructed without having swimming pools incorporated into the layout of the home. Above ground and in-ground, swimming pools are being constructed in gardens and backyards of various homes depending on the environment available for the creation of the pool.
Any individual seriously considering installing swimming pools simply has to call a reputed dealer like blue world pool to get a designer pool installed in his place. The swimming pools that are installed by blue world pool can be customized according to the preference of the customer.
The consumer can select a design, style and shape that are consistent with the décor of his house. The swimming pools can also be installed by taking advantage of the various finance schemes offered by the dealers. The repayment of such loans taken for installing swimming pools is also comparatively easier on the pocket of the owner. Every member of the family in various ways can enjoy the advantage of a private pool.
Swimming pools can be the venue of different activities like a cozy evening date with a loved on
e or a fun filled evening with friends by the poolside. It also provides the ideal opportunity to spend quality time with family members, and this activity has become a rarity in today’s modern world. A swim cannot only help to rejuvenate a person but is also the best form of physical exercise that one can indulge in. A swim is the only exercise that gives a complete workout to the entire body and all the muscles, enhancing endurance and lungpower and strengthening the heart. Swimming pools also give the perfect workout that tones the entire body and within a short while, the individual notices a dramatic improvement in not only his physical appearance but his mental health as well.
Little do we know that swimming pools have been around for a long time and in earlier days of kings and queens, even they had community baths and private baths that had the look and shape of the modern day swimming pools. The multiple benefits offered by the swimming pools are one of the primary reasons for their survival and adaptation into the modern world. Nowadays the swimming pools are available in a variety of designs and styles and made of material ranging from metal, plastic and concrete. The temperature-controlled waters add to the convenience of owning a private pool. A clean, hygienically maintained swimming pool could be one of the best recreational options available to an individual.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Basic Fixes For a Polaris 280 Pool Cleaner That Has Stopped Moving
The Polaris 280 Pool Cleaner is a one of the best in ground pool cleaners available on the market today. Even though it is an older model, it consistently outperforms the newer models of Polaris pool cleaners. It also requires less maintenance and is easier to troubleshoot and fix when problems do start happening. Like all pool cleaners, with age the cleaner will eventually start wearing down and working less efficiently. One common symptom that may show up is when the Polaris 280 simply stops moving and isn't doing any of the cleaning it normally does so well. The following troubleshooting tips will help identify why the cleaner has stopped moving.
Obstructed Cleaner Wheels - first things first, turn off all the pool equipment and remove the cleaner from the pool. Inspect the wheels and make sure they turn freely and that there isn't anything stopping the wheels from turning. It is real easy, and very common, for a pool toy, small branch, or other types of debris to get jammed in between the wheels stopping them from moving. When this happens, everything else could be working great, just the wheels can't turn. Once the toy or debris is removed, the Polaris 280 will be back on track to keep the pool clean again..
Is There Enough Water Pressure? - next, make sure there is enough water pressure being delivered to the cleaner. Since the Polaris 280 is a pressure side pool cleaner, it needs a sufficient amount of water pressure to function properly, and without the necessary pressure it will not move. Turn on the pool equipment and visually confirm that the pool has good circulation. If there isn't good water flow, following are the most common reasons.
1 - Main Pool Filter is Dirty - if the main pool filter has not been cleaned recently or the filter pressure gauge has a unusually high pressure reading, the main filter needs to be cleaned. After cleaning the filter, retest the pool cleaner to see if that solved the problem.
2 - Wall Filter Screen is Dirty - the Polaris 280 pool cleaner is equipped with a small filter located inside the wall fitting that can get clogged with debris. If this screen is clogged, there won't be enough water pressure getting to the pool cleaner.
3 - Booster Pump Malfunctioning - turn on all the pool equipment including the Polaris 280 booster pump. If the pump doesn't come on, obviously that is a problem. If it does come on, check the water pressure getting to the pool cleaner by slowly and carefully lifting the cleaner to the surface of the water and reaching in the water to feel the water pressure. Be sure to hold the cleaner under the water, and hold the tail so it doesn't squirt water in your face. It is a good idea to wear glasses or goggles when doing this test.
Pool Cleaner Wheels Need Repair - if the cleaner wheels are not obstructed, all the filters are clean, and there is good water pressure reaching the pool cleaner, the wheels may need repair. Three components to the wheels commonly wear down and need replacement over time.
1 - Wheels - the wheels have grooves that engage the drive shaft. Any of the three wheels that have worn or broken grooves will need to be replaced. The wheels can easily be visually inspected for bad grooves.
2 - Wheel Bearings - each wheel has two wheel bearings that will wear out over time. Indicators that the bearings need replacement are excessive horizontal play and/or wheels that don't turn freely. If it suspected that the bearings are bad, remove the wheels and it will be obvious.
3 - Tires - if the tires have excessive or uneven wear, or have stretched to where they don't fit tightly on the wheels, they need to be replaced.
After going through the problem solving tips above, if the Polaris 280 is still not moving, it may have a more complicated internal mechanical problem. Call a pool service professional or the local pool store for help.
Obstructed Cleaner Wheels - first things first, turn off all the pool equipment and remove the cleaner from the pool. Inspect the wheels and make sure they turn freely and that there isn't anything stopping the wheels from turning. It is real easy, and very common, for a pool toy, small branch, or other types of debris to get jammed in between the wheels stopping them from moving. When this happens, everything else could be working great, just the wheels can't turn. Once the toy or debris is removed, the Polaris 280 will be back on track to keep the pool clean again..
Is There Enough Water Pressure? - next, make sure there is enough water pressure being delivered to the cleaner. Since the Polaris 280 is a pressure side pool cleaner, it needs a sufficient amount of water pressure to function properly, and without the necessary pressure it will not move. Turn on the pool equipment and visually confirm that the pool has good circulation. If there isn't good water flow, following are the most common reasons.
1 - Main Pool Filter is Dirty - if the main pool filter has not been cleaned recently or the filter pressure gauge has a unusually high pressure reading, the main filter needs to be cleaned. After cleaning the filter, retest the pool cleaner to see if that solved the problem.
2 - Wall Filter Screen is Dirty - the Polaris 280 pool cleaner is equipped with a small filter located inside the wall fitting that can get clogged with debris. If this screen is clogged, there won't be enough water pressure getting to the pool cleaner.
3 - Booster Pump Malfunctioning - turn on all the pool equipment including the Polaris 280 booster pump. If the pump doesn't come on, obviously that is a problem. If it does come on, check the water pressure getting to the pool cleaner by slowly and carefully lifting the cleaner to the surface of the water and reaching in the water to feel the water pressure. Be sure to hold the cleaner under the water, and hold the tail so it doesn't squirt water in your face. It is a good idea to wear glasses or goggles when doing this test.
Pool Cleaner Wheels Need Repair - if the cleaner wheels are not obstructed, all the filters are clean, and there is good water pressure reaching the pool cleaner, the wheels may need repair. Three components to the wheels commonly wear down and need replacement over time.
1 - Wheels - the wheels have grooves that engage the drive shaft. Any of the three wheels that have worn or broken grooves will need to be replaced. The wheels can easily be visually inspected for bad grooves.
2 - Wheel Bearings - each wheel has two wheel bearings that will wear out over time. Indicators that the bearings need replacement are excessive horizontal play and/or wheels that don't turn freely. If it suspected that the bearings are bad, remove the wheels and it will be obvious.
3 - Tires - if the tires have excessive or uneven wear, or have stretched to where they don't fit tightly on the wheels, they need to be replaced.
After going through the problem solving tips above, if the Polaris 280 is still not moving, it may have a more complicated internal mechanical problem. Call a pool service professional or the local pool store for help.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Five Essential Pool Supplies
When planning to install a swimming pool in your backyard, prepare yourself with some information regarding this facility. Having this vital information will help you to further understand how to maintain the pool's integrity. This article introduces you to the five essential pool supplies you need for your recreational investment:
1. Pool Pumps - This item provides the flow of water that the filter needs to completely wash out all debris, leaving the pool beautiful and clean to look at. These parts come in different forms and specifications to fit in in-ground or above ground swimming pools. Pumps must be maintained in the best condition as possible because it is considered the "heart" of a swimming pool.
2. Pool Filters - Filters are responsible for collecting and removing all dirt that affects the quality of water. As the pump runs, water will be flowed through these filters then dirt will be left inside. There are three types of filters - Sand Filters, Diatomaceous Earth Filters, and Filter Cartridges. These supplies for cleaning have special roles for cleaning and polishing your water. Do not worry about these items because they are reasonably priced and provide the best benefits for your water.
3. Pool Cleaners - Whether you use a manual or automatic, utilizing a pool cleaner in your swimming pool helps to keep your pool clean and in great condition. Pool cleaners save the owners from cumbersome hand scrubbing and brushing. These products for cleaning are equipped with suction side or pressure side for extra cleaning abilities.
4. Pool Chemicals - Chemicals are used to maintain the quality and sanitation of your pool water. Lots of dirt, unwanted elements, and pathogens that may enter in your water. Pool supply stores offer a wide array of chemicals that deal on water issues. Chemicals include chlorine, cyanuric acid, pool shock, bromine, and algaecide.
5. Pool Covers - A Pool cover is used to protect your facility from a wide array of threats, such as rain, snow, debris, and UV rays. A Pool cover comes in four types and is used in different occasions. A Solar cover is commonly used when the it is not in use; using this cover will protect the water from evaporating. A Safety cover is applied to prevent your children and pets from falling inside the it. A Pool should be closed during winter season to protect its integrity, that's why its important to use a winter pool cover. To maximize the use of these covers, some owners tend to use the fourth type which is the pool leaf cover.
Keep this information so that you will know how a swimming pool works.
1. Pool Pumps - This item provides the flow of water that the filter needs to completely wash out all debris, leaving the pool beautiful and clean to look at. These parts come in different forms and specifications to fit in in-ground or above ground swimming pools. Pumps must be maintained in the best condition as possible because it is considered the "heart" of a swimming pool.
2. Pool Filters - Filters are responsible for collecting and removing all dirt that affects the quality of water. As the pump runs, water will be flowed through these filters then dirt will be left inside. There are three types of filters - Sand Filters, Diatomaceous Earth Filters, and Filter Cartridges. These supplies for cleaning have special roles for cleaning and polishing your water. Do not worry about these items because they are reasonably priced and provide the best benefits for your water.
3. Pool Cleaners - Whether you use a manual or automatic, utilizing a pool cleaner in your swimming pool helps to keep your pool clean and in great condition. Pool cleaners save the owners from cumbersome hand scrubbing and brushing. These products for cleaning are equipped with suction side or pressure side for extra cleaning abilities.
4. Pool Chemicals - Chemicals are used to maintain the quality and sanitation of your pool water. Lots of dirt, unwanted elements, and pathogens that may enter in your water. Pool supply stores offer a wide array of chemicals that deal on water issues. Chemicals include chlorine, cyanuric acid, pool shock, bromine, and algaecide.
5. Pool Covers - A Pool cover is used to protect your facility from a wide array of threats, such as rain, snow, debris, and UV rays. A Pool cover comes in four types and is used in different occasions. A Solar cover is commonly used when the it is not in use; using this cover will protect the water from evaporating. A Safety cover is applied to prevent your children and pets from falling inside the it. A Pool should be closed during winter season to protect its integrity, that's why its important to use a winter pool cover. To maximize the use of these covers, some owners tend to use the fourth type which is the pool leaf cover.
Keep this information so that you will know how a swimming pool works.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Swimming Pool Sanitation
Bathing in swimming pool is very enjoying moment for anyone but if you refuse to proper sanitation then there will be a chance for being sick. To stop the growth of germs in your swimming pool, sanitation of chemicals in pool or spas water is necessary. There are some major points which we have to always remind in our mind.
1. These germs can cause contagion in ears, nose and gullet and possibly other more risky diseases like Meningitis.
2. Germs control is simply consummate by adding a sanitizer (most commonly Hypochlorous Acid or simply "chlorine") frequently, and then passing the water through a filter to eliminate the dead germs.
We then require being confident that any extra germs inflowing the water is met by a "sanitizer residual" in enough meditation to kill this new germs as frequently as possible.
The swimmers and bathers are the main base for germs in pool’s water. Other sources are top-up water and garbage, such as leaves, grass, soil, etc. Pets can add extensively to germs levels. A large dog can infect up to twenty times the volume of water that a human can.
But it’s not a matter of serious worry. It is generally accepted that most harmful bacteria will be killed when exposed to a "free chlorine residual" as low as one milligram per liter or, in other words one part per million (ppm). By frequently examination of pool’s water and including the desired amount of chlorine to the water, a residual level of 1.0 or 2.0 ppm is simply managed.
Types of chlorine:
There are various forms of chlorine available in the market. Granular, liquid, or tablet, and can also be stabilized or un-stabilized. There is also a product salt water chlorinator available in the market by which chlorine is generated. Each of these different forms has its own characteristics and advantages. For instance, granular chlorine is convenient, easy to store and relatively cheap, however it cannot be dosed automatically. On the other hand, liquid chlorine is bulky and can't be stored for long periods, but can be dosed automatically. All are suitable sanitizers for your pool, so select the type that best outfits your finances and existence. Anyway you choose any form to use the need for a residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm remains the same.
Safety Note:
1. Never mix other chemicals even mixture of chlorine. It may result fire and/or explosion.
2. Stabilizing refers to the mixing of isocyanuric acid (or "Stabiliser") with chlorine, to protect it from UV rays, which drastically decrease its efficiency. Isocyanuric acid can also be added manually to the pool.
Salt Chlorinator:
As the name suggests, these units produce chlorine in the pool water using a process of electrolysis to convert sodium chloride (salt) into hypochlorous acid. These units are available in different sizes to suit different size pools. Be sure the unit you select is capable of producing sufficient chlorine to meet your maximum requirements. No matter which one you choose, you may still need to add extra chlorine from time to time to make sure a satisfactory residual level is maintained.
The stage of stabilizer in the water should be checked frequently if you are using stabilized chlorine artifacts or are including stabilizer to the pool, the level of, as in doing its job, it does not get used up like other chemicals in the pool. If the stabilizer level gets too elevated, it can in fact restrain the effectiveness of the chlorine.
Chlorine Smell:
Many pool owners criticize about the smell of chlorine and think that the pool may have too much chlorine in it. In fact, the conflicting is most likely the case. Not having enough chlorine in the pool will result in the chlorine smell and also lead to users suffering with sore eyes and itchy skin. The reason this is so, is that a by-product of chlorination is the creation of chloramines. These chloramines are the smelly little beasts that cause all the hassle. For being free from them, we require to add more chlorine. It is for this reason that, from time to time, the pool needs "superchlorination".
Heated Pool:
A heated pool will need extra chlorine than a non-heated pool. The reason for that is chlorine used up much more speedily in hot water. Stabilized chlorine products should not be used in heated pools as their effectiveness is greatly reduced.
Major Points to remember:
1. Always maintain a chlorine residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm (milligrams per litre)
2. Select the product that best suits you
3. Chlorine smell generally means not enough chlorine
4. A heated pool will require more chlorine
5. Never mix chemicals
1. These germs can cause contagion in ears, nose and gullet and possibly other more risky diseases like Meningitis.
2. Germs control is simply consummate by adding a sanitizer (most commonly Hypochlorous Acid or simply "chlorine") frequently, and then passing the water through a filter to eliminate the dead germs.
We then require being confident that any extra germs inflowing the water is met by a "sanitizer residual" in enough meditation to kill this new germs as frequently as possible.
The swimmers and bathers are the main base for germs in pool’s water. Other sources are top-up water and garbage, such as leaves, grass, soil, etc. Pets can add extensively to germs levels. A large dog can infect up to twenty times the volume of water that a human can.
But it’s not a matter of serious worry. It is generally accepted that most harmful bacteria will be killed when exposed to a "free chlorine residual" as low as one milligram per liter or, in other words one part per million (ppm). By frequently examination of pool’s water and including the desired amount of chlorine to the water, a residual level of 1.0 or 2.0 ppm is simply managed.
Types of chlorine:
There are various forms of chlorine available in the market. Granular, liquid, or tablet, and can also be stabilized or un-stabilized. There is also a product salt water chlorinator available in the market by which chlorine is generated. Each of these different forms has its own characteristics and advantages. For instance, granular chlorine is convenient, easy to store and relatively cheap, however it cannot be dosed automatically. On the other hand, liquid chlorine is bulky and can't be stored for long periods, but can be dosed automatically. All are suitable sanitizers for your pool, so select the type that best outfits your finances and existence. Anyway you choose any form to use the need for a residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm remains the same.
Safety Note:
1. Never mix other chemicals even mixture of chlorine. It may result fire and/or explosion.
2. Stabilizing refers to the mixing of isocyanuric acid (or "Stabiliser") with chlorine, to protect it from UV rays, which drastically decrease its efficiency. Isocyanuric acid can also be added manually to the pool.
Salt Chlorinator:
As the name suggests, these units produce chlorine in the pool water using a process of electrolysis to convert sodium chloride (salt) into hypochlorous acid. These units are available in different sizes to suit different size pools. Be sure the unit you select is capable of producing sufficient chlorine to meet your maximum requirements. No matter which one you choose, you may still need to add extra chlorine from time to time to make sure a satisfactory residual level is maintained.
The stage of stabilizer in the water should be checked frequently if you are using stabilized chlorine artifacts or are including stabilizer to the pool, the level of, as in doing its job, it does not get used up like other chemicals in the pool. If the stabilizer level gets too elevated, it can in fact restrain the effectiveness of the chlorine.
Chlorine Smell:
Many pool owners criticize about the smell of chlorine and think that the pool may have too much chlorine in it. In fact, the conflicting is most likely the case. Not having enough chlorine in the pool will result in the chlorine smell and also lead to users suffering with sore eyes and itchy skin. The reason this is so, is that a by-product of chlorination is the creation of chloramines. These chloramines are the smelly little beasts that cause all the hassle. For being free from them, we require to add more chlorine. It is for this reason that, from time to time, the pool needs "superchlorination".
Heated Pool:
A heated pool will need extra chlorine than a non-heated pool. The reason for that is chlorine used up much more speedily in hot water. Stabilized chlorine products should not be used in heated pools as their effectiveness is greatly reduced.
Major Points to remember:
1. Always maintain a chlorine residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm (milligrams per litre)
2. Select the product that best suits you
3. Chlorine smell generally means not enough chlorine
4. A heated pool will require more chlorine
5. Never mix chemicals
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Basic Guidelines and Care For Your Security
Homes with remarkable features such as swimming pools are profitable and productive investments in the real estate industry. This is because this particular feature will undoubtedly boost the market value of your home. However, it may also pose threats and danger if you do not take necessary measures for pool safety.
Taking care and maintaining your home pools in order to maximize its purpose and bring comfort and enjoyment to you and your loved ones is a must. However, it ought to be done with utmost care, intensive planning and research as well. Only through these salient steps could you make the most out of your home features especially this outdoor home asset.
There are innumerable ways on how to ensure that you swimming pools at home are safe and free from accidents and other untoward incidents which may greatly threaten your safety and those of your loved ones. This is most especially important for homes and families which have young kids.
It is imperative that you install gates around your pool in order to create the best secured venue particularly keeping in mind that your young children may sometimes and possibly sneak around without adult supervision to play and use the pool. Hence, make sure that you keep a self-closing or automatic gate hinge around the premises of the pool. Maintain the usability and function of this gate because it would be totally useless if its purpose in the first place is forfeited due to lack of maintenance.
For instance, make sure that you regularly oil the gates and clean it in a regular basis to avoid rusting and the like. Regularly check the gates and note if there are issues for repair and fixture which cannot be remedied through adding oil. You need to promptly call professional contractors or repairmen to take care and repair your pool fences to function with its self-closing features.
Another highly reliable and advanced safety plan for your home pool is through installing an alarm system specially designed for this particular purpose. You may initiate installation of alarms on all the passageways or doors which generally lead to your pool premises. There are likewise more advanced security gadgets which are installed under water to detect water motion and sends off alarm if someone is using the pool unsupervised.
You can also seek help from professional contractors who can help you in installing removable pool fencing. This is a good alternative especially if you want to temporarily install the fencing on ordinary days and get it during occasions that you will be using the pool such as parties and the like. It also helps to install tiles around the pool which are basically safer than others such as not very slippery variations and the like.
Pool safety is truly a priceless component that will prevent life-threatening situations in your home. These venues are primarily made for enjoyment and leisure while bonding with family and friends hence make sure that you help keep its purpose at all times.
Taking care and maintaining your home pools in order to maximize its purpose and bring comfort and enjoyment to you and your loved ones is a must. However, it ought to be done with utmost care, intensive planning and research as well. Only through these salient steps could you make the most out of your home features especially this outdoor home asset.
There are innumerable ways on how to ensure that you swimming pools at home are safe and free from accidents and other untoward incidents which may greatly threaten your safety and those of your loved ones. This is most especially important for homes and families which have young kids.
It is imperative that you install gates around your pool in order to create the best secured venue particularly keeping in mind that your young children may sometimes and possibly sneak around without adult supervision to play and use the pool. Hence, make sure that you keep a self-closing or automatic gate hinge around the premises of the pool. Maintain the usability and function of this gate because it would be totally useless if its purpose in the first place is forfeited due to lack of maintenance.
For instance, make sure that you regularly oil the gates and clean it in a regular basis to avoid rusting and the like. Regularly check the gates and note if there are issues for repair and fixture which cannot be remedied through adding oil. You need to promptly call professional contractors or repairmen to take care and repair your pool fences to function with its self-closing features.
Another highly reliable and advanced safety plan for your home pool is through installing an alarm system specially designed for this particular purpose. You may initiate installation of alarms on all the passageways or doors which generally lead to your pool premises. There are likewise more advanced security gadgets which are installed under water to detect water motion and sends off alarm if someone is using the pool unsupervised.
You can also seek help from professional contractors who can help you in installing removable pool fencing. This is a good alternative especially if you want to temporarily install the fencing on ordinary days and get it during occasions that you will be using the pool such as parties and the like. It also helps to install tiles around the pool which are basically safer than others such as not very slippery variations and the like.
Pool safety is truly a priceless component that will prevent life-threatening situations in your home. These venues are primarily made for enjoyment and leisure while bonding with family and friends hence make sure that you help keep its purpose at all times.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
5 Tips On Selecting A Swimming Pool Contractor
TIP # 1: Seek out at least 3 bids from swimming pool contractors
Swimming pool construction is handled by specialized swimming pool contractors who are experienced in ground conditions and climate of the region. Make sure that your contractor has experience building swimming pools especially the type of swimming pool that you are interested in installing. When you get your bids, look carefully at each swimming pool estimate to assure that you accurately compare one estimate with the next. It is very easy to miss details when comparing estimates. You may even want to create a swimming pool spreadsheet to compare one pool estimate to other pool estimates. Pay special attention to the types of materials that the contractor will use to construct the pool; project extras such as water to fill the pool, special features, energy efficient pumps, going green, salt systems, patio/decking; warranties on the swimming pool and equipment; project timelines and the types of pool equipment that the pool contractor will use such as pool filter, the pool pump, number of skimmers, returns, turnover rates, number of lights, steps, swimming pool vacuums, etc. Many companies will entice a buyer with low prices and then increase the price dramatically with extras that may be included in another pool company’s base pricing- make sure you compare the bids equally across the board. Try to use a company that sells the pool as a whole package to get better pricing or has an all-inclusive policy.
TIP # 2: Get at least 3 references to help you accurately assess the pool builder’s workmanship and customer service.
Ask the references about how and why they picked this contractor and about their experience work with the contractor. Find out if any issues came up during the project and how they handled the issues. Ask if they would have done anything differently in hindsight. If you cannot see the finished swimming pool project first hand, ask the pool contractor for pictures. The nature of references is that almost every reference will be positive. Do not depend on references to be a critical analysis of the pool contractor. The reference should give you an idea of how the contractor works on the project and how specific projects and issues were handled. Also, ask for trade references to show relationships within the pool industry, ask for architects, engineers and project managers that have real working relationships with the pool company to show the strength of the pool company’s business.
TIP # 3: Plan your payment schedule and follow schedule.
Most projects involve subcontractors, employees, equipment suppliers and others that are paid as a project proceeds or as needs arise. A delay in payment may slow down or even stop aspects of your project mid-stream. A slowed or stalled swimming pool project almost always increases the overall cost of the pool project. If you anticipate issues with the payment schedule, speak up early as the contractor may be able to move the project schedule around to protect you and your pool project.While you should not wrongly hold back payments, don’t make your final payment until your swimming pool is completed.Your previous payments during the project should ensure that construction and equipment, decking or fencing by the contract has been completed. Your final payment is your strongest insurance that your pool project will be completed as agreed. If you must make your last payment early, make sure that you get in writing a list of what still needs to be completed and the timeline for the remaining tasks. Do not pay cash in a lump sum for
your swimming pool. Most contractors expect to receive money at stages during the project. Contractors that request you to pay for the entire project in cash up front are operating illegally. Maryland Home Improvement Commission law states that a contractor can only take a 33% deposit.
TIP # 4 Communicate with your builder at all times.
Find out who will be responsible for supervising the work on your pool and keep in touch with them. Find out their full name, office and cell phone and email if available. Do not assume that the contractor will know what you are thinking about the progress of the project. If concerns, questions or comments come up, you must let the builder know immediately. Do not keep quiet or delay telling the builder. Silence and delays will only increase the cost of correcting the problem. Keep accurate records of all papers relating to your swimming pool. This information will help you maintain and take long term care of your pool. Many of the questions that might come up over time about your pool will probably be answered in the papers that you received during the pool construction.
TIP # 5 Use web resources to help learn about and plan your project.
Pool builder with lots of photos and advice on building pools
Swimming pool construction is handled by specialized swimming pool contractors who are experienced in ground conditions and climate of the region. Make sure that your contractor has experience building swimming pools especially the type of swimming pool that you are interested in installing. When you get your bids, look carefully at each swimming pool estimate to assure that you accurately compare one estimate with the next. It is very easy to miss details when comparing estimates. You may even want to create a swimming pool spreadsheet to compare one pool estimate to other pool estimates. Pay special attention to the types of materials that the contractor will use to construct the pool; project extras such as water to fill the pool, special features, energy efficient pumps, going green, salt systems, patio/decking; warranties on the swimming pool and equipment; project timelines and the types of pool equipment that the pool contractor will use such as pool filter, the pool pump, number of skimmers, returns, turnover rates, number of lights, steps, swimming pool vacuums, etc. Many companies will entice a buyer with low prices and then increase the price dramatically with extras that may be included in another pool company’s base pricing- make sure you compare the bids equally across the board. Try to use a company that sells the pool as a whole package to get better pricing or has an all-inclusive policy.
TIP # 2: Get at least 3 references to help you accurately assess the pool builder’s workmanship and customer service.
Ask the references about how and why they picked this contractor and about their experience work with the contractor. Find out if any issues came up during the project and how they handled the issues. Ask if they would have done anything differently in hindsight. If you cannot see the finished swimming pool project first hand, ask the pool contractor for pictures. The nature of references is that almost every reference will be positive. Do not depend on references to be a critical analysis of the pool contractor. The reference should give you an idea of how the contractor works on the project and how specific projects and issues were handled. Also, ask for trade references to show relationships within the pool industry, ask for architects, engineers and project managers that have real working relationships with the pool company to show the strength of the pool company’s business.
TIP # 3: Plan your payment schedule and follow schedule.
Most projects involve subcontractors, employees, equipment suppliers and others that are paid as a project proceeds or as needs arise. A delay in payment may slow down or even stop aspects of your project mid-stream. A slowed or stalled swimming pool project almost always increases the overall cost of the pool project. If you anticipate issues with the payment schedule, speak up early as the contractor may be able to move the project schedule around to protect you and your pool project.While you should not wrongly hold back payments, don’t make your final payment until your swimming pool is completed.Your previous payments during the project should ensure that construction and equipment, decking or fencing by the contract has been completed. Your final payment is your strongest insurance that your pool project will be completed as agreed. If you must make your last payment early, make sure that you get in writing a list of what still needs to be completed and the timeline for the remaining tasks. Do not pay cash in a lump sum for
your swimming pool. Most contractors expect to receive money at stages during the project. Contractors that request you to pay for the entire project in cash up front are operating illegally. Maryland Home Improvement Commission law states that a contractor can only take a 33% deposit.
TIP # 4 Communicate with your builder at all times.
Find out who will be responsible for supervising the work on your pool and keep in touch with them. Find out their full name, office and cell phone and email if available. Do not assume that the contractor will know what you are thinking about the progress of the project. If concerns, questions or comments come up, you must let the builder know immediately. Do not keep quiet or delay telling the builder. Silence and delays will only increase the cost of correcting the problem. Keep accurate records of all papers relating to your swimming pool. This information will help you maintain and take long term care of your pool. Many of the questions that might come up over time about your pool will probably be answered in the papers that you received during the pool construction.
TIP # 5 Use web resources to help learn about and plan your project.
Pool builder with lots of photos and advice on building pools
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Using Automatic Controls to Help Maintain Your Pool
There are many products on the market to help maintain your swimming pool. An automatic pool cleaner is an ideal choice to help keep the pool clean. One of the best ways I have found to ensure the pool cleaner handles its duties on a regular basis is to set it up on an automatic timer.
When it comes to technology, the pool industry is moving right along. There is wide variety of automatic equipment available to control almost every aspect of pool maintenance. Some automatic pool controls even incorporate a salt water chlorination system. While some may find it quite relaxing to know that their pool equipment is relieving them of many routine maintenance chores, the cost involved in some of these setups may seem a little steep to the average pool owner.
While fully automatic systems may be nice, you may not have the need for such extravagances. One on a smaller budget can find some very good alternatives that are lees expensive. there are several brands of timer controls that can handle the job of running your pool pump and automatic pool cleaner
One popular unit Intermatic controls markets houses a circuit breaker panel as well as dual timers. With this setup the filter pump and cleaner booster pump can be controlled independently, allowing you to run your cleaner pump for for a shorter cycle than your filter pump.
Use care when configuring a control setup like this to always ensure that you have the cleaner pump interval running inside the filter pump interval. Damage to the booster pump could occur if it is not supplied with a constant flow of water from the pool pump
It's a good practice to operate your pool cleaner a few times when you will be present to attend it. This way you can ensure that it performs as expected and does not get hung up on objects in the pool. After you are sure that everything is running properly, set it up on the timers and let it take care of the cleaning at night or any other time that the pool will not be in use.
The expense of automatic pool controls doesn't have to exclude you from enjoying the benefits of technology. There are many other choices available at reasonable prices to help you control your automatic pool cleaner and pool filtration system.
When it comes to technology, the pool industry is moving right along. There is wide variety of automatic equipment available to control almost every aspect of pool maintenance. Some automatic pool controls even incorporate a salt water chlorination system. While some may find it quite relaxing to know that their pool equipment is relieving them of many routine maintenance chores, the cost involved in some of these setups may seem a little steep to the average pool owner.
While fully automatic systems may be nice, you may not have the need for such extravagances. One on a smaller budget can find some very good alternatives that are lees expensive. there are several brands of timer controls that can handle the job of running your pool pump and automatic pool cleaner
One popular unit Intermatic controls markets houses a circuit breaker panel as well as dual timers. With this setup the filter pump and cleaner booster pump can be controlled independently, allowing you to run your cleaner pump for for a shorter cycle than your filter pump.
Use care when configuring a control setup like this to always ensure that you have the cleaner pump interval running inside the filter pump interval. Damage to the booster pump could occur if it is not supplied with a constant flow of water from the pool pump
It's a good practice to operate your pool cleaner a few times when you will be present to attend it. This way you can ensure that it performs as expected and does not get hung up on objects in the pool. After you are sure that everything is running properly, set it up on the timers and let it take care of the cleaning at night or any other time that the pool will not be in use.
The expense of automatic pool controls doesn't have to exclude you from enjoying the benefits of technology. There are many other choices available at reasonable prices to help you control your automatic pool cleaner and pool filtration system.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Swimming Pool Sanitation
Bathing in swimming pool is very enjoying moment for anyone but if you refuse to proper sanitation then there will be a chance for being sick. To stop the growth of germs in your swimming pool, sanitation of chemicals in pool or spas water is necessary. There are some major points which we have to always remind in our mind.
1. These germs can cause contagion in ears, nose and gullet and possibly other more risky diseases like Meningitis.
2. Germs control is simply consummate by adding a sanitizer (most commonly Hypochlorous Acid or simply "chlorine") frequently, and then passing the water through a filter to eliminate the dead germs.
We then require being confident that any extra germs inflowing the water is met by a "sanitizer residual" in enough meditation to kill this new germs as frequently as possible.
The swimmers and bathers are the main base for germs in pool’s water. Other sources are top-up water and garbage, such as leaves, grass, soil, etc. Pets can add extensively to germs levels. A large dog can infect up to twenty times the volume of water that a human can.
But it’s not a matter of serious worry. It is generally accepted that most harmful bacteria will be killed when exposed to a "free chlorine residual" as low as one milligram per liter or, in other words one part per million (ppm). By frequently examination of pool’s water and including the desired amount of chlorine to the water, a residual level of 1.0 or 2.0 ppm is simply managed.
Types of chlorine:
There are various forms of chlorine available in the market. Granular, liquid, or tablet, and can also be stabilized or un-stabilized. There is also a product salt water chlorinator available in the market by which chlorine is generated. Each of these different forms has its own characteristics and advantages. For instance, granular chlorine is convenient, easy to store and relatively cheap, however it cannot be dosed automatically. On the other hand, liquid chlorine is bulky and can't be stored for long periods, but can be dosed automatically. All are suitable sanitizers for your pool, so select the type that best outfits your finances and existence. Anyway you choose any form to use the need for a residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm remains the same.
Safety Note:
1. Never mix other chemicals even mixture of chlorine. It may result fire and/or explosion.
2. Stabilizing refers to the mixing of isocyanuric acid (or "Stabiliser") with chlorine, to protect it from UV rays, which drastically decrease its efficiency. Isocyanuric acid can also be added manually to the pool.
Salt Chlorinator:
As the name suggests, these units produce chlorine in the pool water using a process of electrolysis to convert sodium chloride (salt) into hypochlorous acid. These units are available in different sizes to suit different size pools. Be sure the unit you select is capable of producing sufficient chlorine to meet your maximum requirements. No matter which one you choose, you may still need to add extra chlorine from time to time to make sure a satisfactory residual level is maintained.
The stage of stabilizer in the water should be checked frequently if you are using stabilized chlorine artifacts or are including stabilizer to the pool, the level of, as in doing its job, it does not get used up like other chemicals in the pool. If the stabilizer level gets too elevated, it can in fact restrain the effectiveness of the chlorine.
Chlorine Smell:
Many pool owners criticize about the smell of chlorine and think that the pool may have too much chlorine in it. In fact, the conflicting is most likely the case. Not having enough chlorine in the pool will result in the chlorine smell and also lead to users suffering with sore eyes and itchy skin. The reason this is so, is that a by-product of chlorination is the creation of chloramines. These chloramines are the smelly little beasts that cause all the hassle. For being free from them, we require to add more chlorine. It is for this reason that, from time to time, the pool needs "superchlorination".
Heated Pool:
A heated pool will need extra chlorine than a non-heated pool. The reason for that is chlorine used up much more speedily in hot water. Stabilized chlorine products should not be used in heated pools as their effectiveness is greatly reduced.
Major Points to remember:
1. Always maintain a chlorine residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm (milligrams per litre)
2. Select the product that best suits you
3. Chlorine smell generally means not enough chlorine
4. A heated pool will require more chlorine
5. Never mix chemicals
1. These germs can cause contagion in ears, nose and gullet and possibly other more risky diseases like Meningitis.
2. Germs control is simply consummate by adding a sanitizer (most commonly Hypochlorous Acid or simply "chlorine") frequently, and then passing the water through a filter to eliminate the dead germs.
We then require being confident that any extra germs inflowing the water is met by a "sanitizer residual" in enough meditation to kill this new germs as frequently as possible.
The swimmers and bathers are the main base for germs in pool’s water. Other sources are top-up water and garbage, such as leaves, grass, soil, etc. Pets can add extensively to germs levels. A large dog can infect up to twenty times the volume of water that a human can.
But it’s not a matter of serious worry. It is generally accepted that most harmful bacteria will be killed when exposed to a "free chlorine residual" as low as one milligram per liter or, in other words one part per million (ppm). By frequently examination of pool’s water and including the desired amount of chlorine to the water, a residual level of 1.0 or 2.0 ppm is simply managed.
Types of chlorine:
There are various forms of chlorine available in the market. Granular, liquid, or tablet, and can also be stabilized or un-stabilized. There is also a product salt water chlorinator available in the market by which chlorine is generated. Each of these different forms has its own characteristics and advantages. For instance, granular chlorine is convenient, easy to store and relatively cheap, however it cannot be dosed automatically. On the other hand, liquid chlorine is bulky and can't be stored for long periods, but can be dosed automatically. All are suitable sanitizers for your pool, so select the type that best outfits your finances and existence. Anyway you choose any form to use the need for a residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm remains the same.
Safety Note:
1. Never mix other chemicals even mixture of chlorine. It may result fire and/or explosion.
2. Stabilizing refers to the mixing of isocyanuric acid (or "Stabiliser") with chlorine, to protect it from UV rays, which drastically decrease its efficiency. Isocyanuric acid can also be added manually to the pool.
Salt Chlorinator:
As the name suggests, these units produce chlorine in the pool water using a process of electrolysis to convert sodium chloride (salt) into hypochlorous acid. These units are available in different sizes to suit different size pools. Be sure the unit you select is capable of producing sufficient chlorine to meet your maximum requirements. No matter which one you choose, you may still need to add extra chlorine from time to time to make sure a satisfactory residual level is maintained.
The stage of stabilizer in the water should be checked frequently if you are using stabilized chlorine artifacts or are including stabilizer to the pool, the level of, as in doing its job, it does not get used up like other chemicals in the pool. If the stabilizer level gets too elevated, it can in fact restrain the effectiveness of the chlorine.
Chlorine Smell:
Many pool owners criticize about the smell of chlorine and think that the pool may have too much chlorine in it. In fact, the conflicting is most likely the case. Not having enough chlorine in the pool will result in the chlorine smell and also lead to users suffering with sore eyes and itchy skin. The reason this is so, is that a by-product of chlorination is the creation of chloramines. These chloramines are the smelly little beasts that cause all the hassle. For being free from them, we require to add more chlorine. It is for this reason that, from time to time, the pool needs "superchlorination".
Heated Pool:
A heated pool will need extra chlorine than a non-heated pool. The reason for that is chlorine used up much more speedily in hot water. Stabilized chlorine products should not be used in heated pools as their effectiveness is greatly reduced.
Major Points to remember:
1. Always maintain a chlorine residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm (milligrams per litre)
2. Select the product that best suits you
3. Chlorine smell generally means not enough chlorine
4. A heated pool will require more chlorine
5. Never mix chemicals
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Is An On Ground Pool Better Than An In Ground Pool?
If you are thinking about getting your very own swimming pool for your backyard, there are actually two choices for you. You need to choose whether you want an in ground pool or an on ground pool. Just like the two options, there are many reasons why one is better than the other. For this reason, this article will discuss about the benefits of each of these options.
There is really nothing comparable to splashing into a cool pool on a hot summer’s day. Not even going to the movies can give you the satisfying and refreshing experience of being lazy in your on ground or in ground pool. Aside from swimming, you can also host your very own barbecue around the pool area.
For many people, getting their very own on ground pool is just like having their dream home. This is why they make a crucial decision as to whether they would like an in ground or an on ground pool.
With regards to these two options, there are actually a lot of advantages and disadvantages to which one you choose. As compared to an in ground pool, choosing an on ground pool will be able to save you money, lots of money. As a matter of fact, it can cost ten times lesser than the other option. Aside from saving you money in purchasing the pool, an on ground pool will not cause a raise in your property taxes. For this reason, you are able to save more money.
An on ground pool is also easier to clean and maintain. For the same manner, it is less expensive as compared to an in ground pool. This is because an on ground pool is typically smaller than the other type of swimming pool. So if you choose an on ground pool, you are saving time, money, as well as your energy in cleaning out the pool.
The downfall to an on ground pool though is that they have a restriction with regards to their size. While the deepest end for in ground pools are normally around 6 feet, an on ground pool can only have up to 4 feet. As a result, on ground pools are not allowed to have slides, diving boards or the other accessories which in ground pools have. Aside from the height of the pool, there are also more options for the design and look of the in ground pool. You can even get the shape of the pool custom made so that it fits the look of your home.
But at the same time, this is the disadvantage of in ground pools. The larger the size of the pool is, the more you need for maintenance and chemicals. This is why it is more expensive to clean and maintain an in ground pool. If you are also planning to move out of your home, in ground pools may turn off potential homebuyers as there are safety hazards to their children. Meanwhile, there are also who find this a big plus.
After reading the advantages and disadvantages of both the in ground and on ground pool, you can now make the decision on which pool will better suit your budget. Always make it a point to decide for the safety of your whole family.
There is really nothing comparable to splashing into a cool pool on a hot summer’s day. Not even going to the movies can give you the satisfying and refreshing experience of being lazy in your on ground or in ground pool. Aside from swimming, you can also host your very own barbecue around the pool area.
For many people, getting their very own on ground pool is just like having their dream home. This is why they make a crucial decision as to whether they would like an in ground or an on ground pool.
With regards to these two options, there are actually a lot of advantages and disadvantages to which one you choose. As compared to an in ground pool, choosing an on ground pool will be able to save you money, lots of money. As a matter of fact, it can cost ten times lesser than the other option. Aside from saving you money in purchasing the pool, an on ground pool will not cause a raise in your property taxes. For this reason, you are able to save more money.
An on ground pool is also easier to clean and maintain. For the same manner, it is less expensive as compared to an in ground pool. This is because an on ground pool is typically smaller than the other type of swimming pool. So if you choose an on ground pool, you are saving time, money, as well as your energy in cleaning out the pool.
The downfall to an on ground pool though is that they have a restriction with regards to their size. While the deepest end for in ground pools are normally around 6 feet, an on ground pool can only have up to 4 feet. As a result, on ground pools are not allowed to have slides, diving boards or the other accessories which in ground pools have. Aside from the height of the pool, there are also more options for the design and look of the in ground pool. You can even get the shape of the pool custom made so that it fits the look of your home.
But at the same time, this is the disadvantage of in ground pools. The larger the size of the pool is, the more you need for maintenance and chemicals. This is why it is more expensive to clean and maintain an in ground pool. If you are also planning to move out of your home, in ground pools may turn off potential homebuyers as there are safety hazards to their children. Meanwhile, there are also who find this a big plus.
After reading the advantages and disadvantages of both the in ground and on ground pool, you can now make the decision on which pool will better suit your budget. Always make it a point to decide for the safety of your whole family.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Clean Your Swimming Pool
Keeping the interior of your swimming pool fresh and clean doesn’t demand intensive labor, but it does take a steady commitment. Expect to spend between four and eight hours each week during peak season—a small outlay compared to the amount of time you’ll spend enjoying your pool.
The Best Tools for the Job
Using the right tools will make cleaning your pool easier and faster. You’ll find these at any large pool-supply retailer.
Leaf skimmer. This long-handled net is a must for removing large pieces of debris.
Vacuum. Another weapon that’s essential in any cleaning arsenal, a pool vacuum either connects to a pool’s circulation system or has its own power supply. Vacuums suction out dirt that has settled to the bottom.
Wall and floor brush. This nylon-bristle brush cleans the walls and floor of vinyl, fiberglass, and painted pools.
Algae brush. Concrete pools may require one of these as its stainless-steel bristles are up to the challenge of cleaning plaster walls.
Tile brush. If your pool has tiled walls, a handheld tile brush is great for removing calcium scale and other deposits without harming the grout. Use a pumice stone for stubborn spots on tile.
Skimming Debris
Skimming by hand is one of the quickest and most effective ways to keep a pool clean. A few simple swipes will remove floating objects such as leaves before they sink to the bottom, greatly increasing the efficiency of the pool’s circulation system and reducing the need for chlorine.
Cleaning Out the Baskets
Keeping the strainer baskets clear will also boost the efficiency of the circulation system, resulting in a much cleaner pool. At least once a week, remove leaves and anything else that could obstruct the water flow, especially if your vacuum is connected to a mechanical skimmer. Strainer baskets may be in the pool deck or, for an above-ground pool, attached to the side.
Vacuuming
Vacuuming every week helps keep the water clear and reduces the need to add sanitizing chemicals. Vacuums come in many designs and styles. All manual vacuums should be worked back and forth across the swimming pool, overlapping slightly on each stroke. Depending on the amount of dirt in the pool, it may be necessary to clean the filter each time you vacuum.
Cleaning the Walls
Brushing the pool walls at least once a week helps eliminate everything from calcium scale to algae buildup before they start to become serious problems. You can use a stiff brush on a plaster-lined concrete pool, but fiberglass and vinyl pools require a softer brush. For tile, be sure not to use anything too abrasive or stiff—it can scratch the tiles or destroy the grout. Water-line tile scum can be removed with a nonabrasive chlorine-based liquid and a tile brush or a sponge. For tough spots, use a nylon scouring pad or a pumice stone, which works like a giant eraser. Whatever type of pool you have, use a cleaner recommended by the pool manufacturer.
The Best Tools for the Job
Using the right tools will make cleaning your pool easier and faster. You’ll find these at any large pool-supply retailer.
Leaf skimmer. This long-handled net is a must for removing large pieces of debris.
Vacuum. Another weapon that’s essential in any cleaning arsenal, a pool vacuum either connects to a pool’s circulation system or has its own power supply. Vacuums suction out dirt that has settled to the bottom.
Wall and floor brush. This nylon-bristle brush cleans the walls and floor of vinyl, fiberglass, and painted pools.
Algae brush. Concrete pools may require one of these as its stainless-steel bristles are up to the challenge of cleaning plaster walls.
Tile brush. If your pool has tiled walls, a handheld tile brush is great for removing calcium scale and other deposits without harming the grout. Use a pumice stone for stubborn spots on tile.
Skimming Debris
Skimming by hand is one of the quickest and most effective ways to keep a pool clean. A few simple swipes will remove floating objects such as leaves before they sink to the bottom, greatly increasing the efficiency of the pool’s circulation system and reducing the need for chlorine.
Cleaning Out the Baskets
Keeping the strainer baskets clear will also boost the efficiency of the circulation system, resulting in a much cleaner pool. At least once a week, remove leaves and anything else that could obstruct the water flow, especially if your vacuum is connected to a mechanical skimmer. Strainer baskets may be in the pool deck or, for an above-ground pool, attached to the side.
Vacuuming
Vacuuming every week helps keep the water clear and reduces the need to add sanitizing chemicals. Vacuums come in many designs and styles. All manual vacuums should be worked back and forth across the swimming pool, overlapping slightly on each stroke. Depending on the amount of dirt in the pool, it may be necessary to clean the filter each time you vacuum.
Cleaning the Walls
Brushing the pool walls at least once a week helps eliminate everything from calcium scale to algae buildup before they start to become serious problems. You can use a stiff brush on a plaster-lined concrete pool, but fiberglass and vinyl pools require a softer brush. For tile, be sure not to use anything too abrasive or stiff—it can scratch the tiles or destroy the grout. Water-line tile scum can be removed with a nonabrasive chlorine-based liquid and a tile brush or a sponge. For tough spots, use a nylon scouring pad or a pumice stone, which works like a giant eraser. Whatever type of pool you have, use a cleaner recommended by the pool manufacturer.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Winterizing Your Swimming Pool
Don't simply turn the filter off and forget the pool for 3 or 4 months. This is false economy because the time, effort and money needed to get the pool water correctly adjusted next season, will be far more than the little needed to maintain it during winter.
Systematically backwash the filter and clean it using a recognized filter cleaner. Ensure that the skimmer basket and hair and lint pot are free of debris. Lubricate all o-rings with a silicone-based lubricant. If there is not a strong flow of water returning to the pool when the filter is turned on, ring your local SPASA pool shop or service company.
Adjust the total alkalinity level with bicarbonate of soda, if the level is below 80 - 120 parts per million.
Adjust the pH to 7.2 to 7.6 by adding acid if the level is too high or soda ash if it's too low. It is a good idea to mix all chemicals with a full bucket of water before adding to the pool. Remember always add the acid to the water and never in amounts more than 500 mls.
Mix 500 grams of granular chlorine or 750 mls of liquid chlorine with a bucket of water and add it to the pool.
Mix 750 mls - 1 liter of a long life algaecide that is specifically designed for winter and add it to the pool.
Adjust the timer to allow the filter to operate for 2 to 3 hours each day.
If the pool is equipped with a salt chlorinator, clean the cell with a recognized salt cell cleaner. Adjust the control to the ½ production setting. It will be necessary to check the chlorine level in the pool for the next 2 weeks, to ensure that there is a constant level of 1 0 2 ppm free available chlorine at all times. The production control on the salt chlorinator may have to be adjusted to increase or decrease its output.
Having carried out these procedures it should only be necessary to check the chlorine level every 2 weeks and empty the skimmer basket if it has a buildup of leaves etc.
Check occasionally to ensure the water level is half way up the skimmer box opening and that the pressure gauge on the filter is not indicating backwash.
This simple procedure will ensure that your pool will be ready for the first warm days of next summer.
Systematically backwash the filter and clean it using a recognized filter cleaner. Ensure that the skimmer basket and hair and lint pot are free of debris. Lubricate all o-rings with a silicone-based lubricant. If there is not a strong flow of water returning to the pool when the filter is turned on, ring your local SPASA pool shop or service company.
Adjust the total alkalinity level with bicarbonate of soda, if the level is below 80 - 120 parts per million.
Adjust the pH to 7.2 to 7.6 by adding acid if the level is too high or soda ash if it's too low. It is a good idea to mix all chemicals with a full bucket of water before adding to the pool. Remember always add the acid to the water and never in amounts more than 500 mls.
Mix 500 grams of granular chlorine or 750 mls of liquid chlorine with a bucket of water and add it to the pool.
Mix 750 mls - 1 liter of a long life algaecide that is specifically designed for winter and add it to the pool.
Adjust the timer to allow the filter to operate for 2 to 3 hours each day.
If the pool is equipped with a salt chlorinator, clean the cell with a recognized salt cell cleaner. Adjust the control to the ½ production setting. It will be necessary to check the chlorine level in the pool for the next 2 weeks, to ensure that there is a constant level of 1 0 2 ppm free available chlorine at all times. The production control on the salt chlorinator may have to be adjusted to increase or decrease its output.
Having carried out these procedures it should only be necessary to check the chlorine level every 2 weeks and empty the skimmer basket if it has a buildup of leaves etc.
Check occasionally to ensure the water level is half way up the skimmer box opening and that the pressure gauge on the filter is not indicating backwash.
This simple procedure will ensure that your pool will be ready for the first warm days of next summer.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
The Necessity of Pool Chemicals
There are two main pool chemicals you can choose from to maintain the water in swimming pools today. They are chlorine and bromine. Without one or the other you risk having contaminated water not fit to swim in which can cause disease or infection. You could also begin to see some algae growth. However each chemical has its own restrictions and uses so let's look at those and then we'll discuss some less popular pool chemical supplies.
Chlorine is used most widely in private and public swimming pools. It is easy to use and highly effective in eliminating bacteria and foreign contaminants. It oxidizes the cells of organisms and then destroys them once they become vulnerable. However, it is harmless to humans as once the foreign organism is invaded it neutralizes the chlorine compound too. There are some people that can be a little sensitive to chlorine and will get itchy skin and red eyes but this is a mild side effect that goes away quickly.
Bromine has a higher temperature resistance than chlorine which makes it ideal in heated pools, hot tubs and spas. It is also less harsh on the skin and eyes than chlorine. It does have a chlorine base though. As far as how it works it does the same thing chlorine does but it lasts long after eliminating contaminants which makes it cost effective in the long run as you won't have to add as much to the water like you do with chlorine.
Alternatives to these two pool chemicals are ozone generators which is a pump of sorts that infuses ozone into the water to sanitize it. Mineral sanitization is a copper solvent that kills bacteria via an ionizer. There are also catalytic sanitizers which use minerals and oxidation to sanitize the water. These are all environmentally safe alternatives to chlorine and bromine.
Regardless of the chemicals you use you need to balance that with a stabilizer. A stabilizer will help keep the water healthy and will supplement the job the chlorine or other pool chemical does. Maintaining the pH level in the water is critical to pool safety and will often tell you what kind of chemical would work best to balance the purity of the water. These stabilizers and chemicals can be in the form of algae remover should you find the water too alkaline and starting to produce algae. Enzymes have a similar effect.
Peter Flaherty has been involved with home improvement for seventeen years. He knows all the tool and techniques for the DIY crowd and loves to share his knowledge with the general public. If you are interested in learning more about pool chemicals or are looking for other kinds of pool maintenance equipment like pool cover, follow the links and you will find all the information you need.
Chlorine is used most widely in private and public swimming pools. It is easy to use and highly effective in eliminating bacteria and foreign contaminants. It oxidizes the cells of organisms and then destroys them once they become vulnerable. However, it is harmless to humans as once the foreign organism is invaded it neutralizes the chlorine compound too. There are some people that can be a little sensitive to chlorine and will get itchy skin and red eyes but this is a mild side effect that goes away quickly.
Bromine has a higher temperature resistance than chlorine which makes it ideal in heated pools, hot tubs and spas. It is also less harsh on the skin and eyes than chlorine. It does have a chlorine base though. As far as how it works it does the same thing chlorine does but it lasts long after eliminating contaminants which makes it cost effective in the long run as you won't have to add as much to the water like you do with chlorine.
Alternatives to these two pool chemicals are ozone generators which is a pump of sorts that infuses ozone into the water to sanitize it. Mineral sanitization is a copper solvent that kills bacteria via an ionizer. There are also catalytic sanitizers which use minerals and oxidation to sanitize the water. These are all environmentally safe alternatives to chlorine and bromine.
Regardless of the chemicals you use you need to balance that with a stabilizer. A stabilizer will help keep the water healthy and will supplement the job the chlorine or other pool chemical does. Maintaining the pH level in the water is critical to pool safety and will often tell you what kind of chemical would work best to balance the purity of the water. These stabilizers and chemicals can be in the form of algae remover should you find the water too alkaline and starting to produce algae. Enzymes have a similar effect.
Peter Flaherty has been involved with home improvement for seventeen years. He knows all the tool and techniques for the DIY crowd and loves to share his knowledge with the general public. If you are interested in learning more about pool chemicals or are looking for other kinds of pool maintenance equipment like pool cover, follow the links and you will find all the information you need.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Plans for swimming-pool.
Plans for pool construction in the garden.
Choose a place for the swimming pool.
Ideally, a south side of the lawn, far away from trees and close to water and electricity connections. But to allow the swimming pool appropriate space, one must adjust to the surroundings, they must also compromise with the pool construction. I decided to insert the washbasin in a slope below, so that it does not seem to bulky behind the house. It will not look beautiful if the roofing of the swimming pool blocks the view of the rest of the lawn. So that it is not too striking to the eye, a dark green roofing would be nice. Details can be found under pool roofing. Moreover, the trees keep with the pool construction to a certain extent.
While planning the design of the pool, the question arose: what about the washbasin? The following types are current:
Steel Wall Washbasins
Advantages: good price, easily constructed, finished well
Disadvantages: Side walls, additional expenditure with structure
Polyester washbasins (GRP swimming pool)
Advantages: to repair finished washbasin, short construction time
Disadvantages: difficult to repair the form of the washbasin, high carriage
Iso - stones
Advantages: easy to process, altogether lighter, possibly easy curvatures
Disadvantages: Plaster, not really water resistant, rather expensive.
Concrete pool completely from formwork
Advantages: solid, longer durability
Disadvantages: very luxurious (formwork), labor cost-intense
Swimming pools with scarf stones
Advantages: solid, can be built with mortar itself and the concrete can be condensed.
Disadvantages: hard to carry, installation parts for swimming-pool must become polished.
My choice: scarf stones for the pool construction
I decided to use scarf stones to build the pool. A scarf stone costs (50x20x23) approximately 1.10 Euros (list price), an Isostein (100x25x25) 7.00 Euros, respectively. In addition, I get by with roughly 20 cm of wall each time. Isostein is 25 cm thick, this saves concrete. Moreover, the belaying of the walls is cancelled with the feeling. The technology shaft is established even more thinly, with 15 cm of scarf stones. Indeed, the installation parts from the stones must be polished, but I take this into a shop. I realize the walls generally with scarf stones, because where the Swimming pool in the stands.
Pool size
How Big should the pool become?
Width of the swimming pool
The size can be judged by practical terms. The foil is 2.10 meters wide, a little bit too narrow for a pool. With two roads (some overlapping), I have 4.05 pools, an interior measure. Because need/want roofing, it should be concise with the outside wall. In my case I have 4.50 meters outside. Fits perfectly. 450 cm of outer wall, (20 cm of wall + 4 cm of isolation) the outer-rail is 21 cm.
I plan the pool roofing on the wall for the following reasons: To can between swimming-pool roofing and a pool with closed roofing to go along, one needs approximately 1-1.5 meters of space that allows to considerable rise in expenses. I would have to prepare the subsoil at the side for the pool cover and fasten - more expenditure. Moreover, if one possibly lays on the left and on the right from the upper deck, it will look, at the time, different, because a part is protected under the upper deck. Thus, swimming-pool width inside 4.05 and outside 4.50 meters.
Designs the length of the inground pool
Practical proofs also fit. The length of the roofing and the end walls should end concisely on the pool walls. Thus I can drive the roofing a piece above the technology shaft. Because the front end is removable or able to open, it looks rather good. I excluded half of the terrace, so that during winter no color difference on the terrace can form.
Technology shaft behind the swimming pool
The length for the technology shaft in the pool arises from the pool width and I have fixed 1.50 meters as an inside measure. This should reach to move in it. Moreover, the technology space is laid nearly 50 cm deeper to be able to go directly to it.
Stair in the swimming-pool
For the design, I decided to have a concreted Roman stair / steps in the swimming pool. It simply looks better than one entrance leader and one can sit on her comfortably. In addition, this is again realized with scarf stones. The stair will be inside-lying because of the roofing.
Choose a place for the swimming pool.
Ideally, a south side of the lawn, far away from trees and close to water and electricity connections. But to allow the swimming pool appropriate space, one must adjust to the surroundings, they must also compromise with the pool construction. I decided to insert the washbasin in a slope below, so that it does not seem to bulky behind the house. It will not look beautiful if the roofing of the swimming pool blocks the view of the rest of the lawn. So that it is not too striking to the eye, a dark green roofing would be nice. Details can be found under pool roofing. Moreover, the trees keep with the pool construction to a certain extent.
While planning the design of the pool, the question arose: what about the washbasin? The following types are current:
Steel Wall Washbasins
Advantages: good price, easily constructed, finished well
Disadvantages: Side walls, additional expenditure with structure
Polyester washbasins (GRP swimming pool)
Advantages: to repair finished washbasin, short construction time
Disadvantages: difficult to repair the form of the washbasin, high carriage
Iso - stones
Advantages: easy to process, altogether lighter, possibly easy curvatures
Disadvantages: Plaster, not really water resistant, rather expensive.
Concrete pool completely from formwork
Advantages: solid, longer durability
Disadvantages: very luxurious (formwork), labor cost-intense
Swimming pools with scarf stones
Advantages: solid, can be built with mortar itself and the concrete can be condensed.
Disadvantages: hard to carry, installation parts for swimming-pool must become polished.
My choice: scarf stones for the pool construction
I decided to use scarf stones to build the pool. A scarf stone costs (50x20x23) approximately 1.10 Euros (list price), an Isostein (100x25x25) 7.00 Euros, respectively. In addition, I get by with roughly 20 cm of wall each time. Isostein is 25 cm thick, this saves concrete. Moreover, the belaying of the walls is cancelled with the feeling. The technology shaft is established even more thinly, with 15 cm of scarf stones. Indeed, the installation parts from the stones must be polished, but I take this into a shop. I realize the walls generally with scarf stones, because where the Swimming pool in the stands.
Pool size
How Big should the pool become?
Width of the swimming pool
The size can be judged by practical terms. The foil is 2.10 meters wide, a little bit too narrow for a pool. With two roads (some overlapping), I have 4.05 pools, an interior measure. Because need/want roofing, it should be concise with the outside wall. In my case I have 4.50 meters outside. Fits perfectly. 450 cm of outer wall, (20 cm of wall + 4 cm of isolation) the outer-rail is 21 cm.
I plan the pool roofing on the wall for the following reasons: To can between swimming-pool roofing and a pool with closed roofing to go along, one needs approximately 1-1.5 meters of space that allows to considerable rise in expenses. I would have to prepare the subsoil at the side for the pool cover and fasten - more expenditure. Moreover, if one possibly lays on the left and on the right from the upper deck, it will look, at the time, different, because a part is protected under the upper deck. Thus, swimming-pool width inside 4.05 and outside 4.50 meters.
Designs the length of the inground pool
Practical proofs also fit. The length of the roofing and the end walls should end concisely on the pool walls. Thus I can drive the roofing a piece above the technology shaft. Because the front end is removable or able to open, it looks rather good. I excluded half of the terrace, so that during winter no color difference on the terrace can form.
Technology shaft behind the swimming pool
The length for the technology shaft in the pool arises from the pool width and I have fixed 1.50 meters as an inside measure. This should reach to move in it. Moreover, the technology space is laid nearly 50 cm deeper to be able to go directly to it.
Stair in the swimming-pool
For the design, I decided to have a concreted Roman stair / steps in the swimming pool. It simply looks better than one entrance leader and one can sit on her comfortably. In addition, this is again realized with scarf stones. The stair will be inside-lying because of the roofing.
Swimming Pool Sanitation
Bathing in swimming pool is very enjoying moment for anyone but if you refuse to proper sanitation then there will be a chance for being sick. To stop the growth of germs in your swimming pool, sanitation of chemicals in pool or spas water is necessary. There are some major points which we have to always remind in our mind.
1. These germs can cause contagion in ears, nose and gullet and possibly other more risky diseases like Meningitis.
2. Germs control is simply consummate by adding a sanitizer (most commonly Hypochlorous Acid or simply "chlorine") frequently, and then passing the water through a filter to eliminate the dead germs.
We then require being confident that any extra germs inflowing the water is met by a "sanitizer residual" in enough meditation to kill this new germs as frequently as possible.
The swimmers and bathers are the main base for germs in pool’s water. Other sources are top-up water and garbage, such as leaves, grass, soil, etc. Pets can add extensively to germs levels. A large dog can infect up to twenty times the volume of water that a human can.
But it’s not a matter of serious worry. It is generally accepted that most harmful bacteria will be killed when exposed to a "free chlorine residual" as low as one milligram per liter or, in other words one part per million (ppm). By frequently examination of pool’s water and including the desired amount of chlorine to the water, a residual level of 1.0 or 2.0 ppm is simply managed.
Types of chlorine:
There are various forms of chlorine available in the market. Granular, liquid, or tablet, and can also be stabilized or un-stabilized. There is also a product salt water chlorinator available in the market by which chlorine is generated. Each of these different forms has its own characteristics and advantages. For instance, granular chlorine is convenient, easy to store and relatively cheap, however it cannot be dosed automatically. On the other hand, liquid chlorine is bulky and can't be stored for long periods, but can be dosed automatically. All are suitable sanitizers for your pool, so select the type that best outfits your finances and existence. Anyway you choose any form to use the need for a residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm remains the same.
Safety Note:
1. Never mix other chemicals even mixture of chlorine. It may result fire and/or explosion.
2. Stabilizing refers to the mixing of isocyanuric acid (or "Stabiliser") with chlorine, to protect it from UV rays, which drastically decrease its efficiency. Isocyanuric acid can also be added manually to the pool.
Salt Chlorinator:
As the name suggests, these units produce chlorine in the pool water using a process of electrolysis to convert sodium chloride (salt) into hypochlorous acid. These units are available in different sizes to suit different size pools. Be sure the unit you select is capable of producing sufficient chlorine to meet your maximum requirements. No matter which one you choose, you may still need to add extra chlorine from time to time to make sure a satisfactory residual level is maintained.
The stage of stabilizer in the water should be checked frequently if you are using stabilized chlorine artifacts or are including stabilizer to the pool, the level of, as in doing its job, it does not get used up like other chemicals in the pool. If the stabilizer level gets too elevated, it can in fact restrain the effectiveness of the chlorine.
Chlorine Smell:
Many pool owners criticize about the smell of chlorine and think that the pool may have too much chlorine in it. In fact, the conflicting is most likely the case. Not having enough chlorine in the pool will result in the chlorine smell and also lead to users suffering with sore eyes and itchy skin. The reason this is so, is that a by-product of chlorination is the creation of chloramines. These chloramines are the smelly little beasts that cause all the hassle. For being free from them, we require to add more chlorine. It is for this reason that, from time to time, the pool needs "superchlorination".
Heated Pool:
A heated pool will need extra chlorine than a non-heated pool. The reason for that is chlorine used up much more speedily in hot water. Stabilized chlorine products should not be used in heated pools as their effectiveness is greatly reduced.
Major Points to remember:
1. Always maintain a chlorine residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm (milligrams per litre)
2. Select the product that best suits you
3. Chlorine smell generally means not enough chlorine
4. A heated pool will require more chlorine
5. Never mix chemicals
1. These germs can cause contagion in ears, nose and gullet and possibly other more risky diseases like Meningitis.
2. Germs control is simply consummate by adding a sanitizer (most commonly Hypochlorous Acid or simply "chlorine") frequently, and then passing the water through a filter to eliminate the dead germs.
We then require being confident that any extra germs inflowing the water is met by a "sanitizer residual" in enough meditation to kill this new germs as frequently as possible.
The swimmers and bathers are the main base for germs in pool’s water. Other sources are top-up water and garbage, such as leaves, grass, soil, etc. Pets can add extensively to germs levels. A large dog can infect up to twenty times the volume of water that a human can.
But it’s not a matter of serious worry. It is generally accepted that most harmful bacteria will be killed when exposed to a "free chlorine residual" as low as one milligram per liter or, in other words one part per million (ppm). By frequently examination of pool’s water and including the desired amount of chlorine to the water, a residual level of 1.0 or 2.0 ppm is simply managed.
Types of chlorine:
There are various forms of chlorine available in the market. Granular, liquid, or tablet, and can also be stabilized or un-stabilized. There is also a product salt water chlorinator available in the market by which chlorine is generated. Each of these different forms has its own characteristics and advantages. For instance, granular chlorine is convenient, easy to store and relatively cheap, however it cannot be dosed automatically. On the other hand, liquid chlorine is bulky and can't be stored for long periods, but can be dosed automatically. All are suitable sanitizers for your pool, so select the type that best outfits your finances and existence. Anyway you choose any form to use the need for a residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm remains the same.
Safety Note:
1. Never mix other chemicals even mixture of chlorine. It may result fire and/or explosion.
2. Stabilizing refers to the mixing of isocyanuric acid (or "Stabiliser") with chlorine, to protect it from UV rays, which drastically decrease its efficiency. Isocyanuric acid can also be added manually to the pool.
Salt Chlorinator:
As the name suggests, these units produce chlorine in the pool water using a process of electrolysis to convert sodium chloride (salt) into hypochlorous acid. These units are available in different sizes to suit different size pools. Be sure the unit you select is capable of producing sufficient chlorine to meet your maximum requirements. No matter which one you choose, you may still need to add extra chlorine from time to time to make sure a satisfactory residual level is maintained.
The stage of stabilizer in the water should be checked frequently if you are using stabilized chlorine artifacts or are including stabilizer to the pool, the level of, as in doing its job, it does not get used up like other chemicals in the pool. If the stabilizer level gets too elevated, it can in fact restrain the effectiveness of the chlorine.
Chlorine Smell:
Many pool owners criticize about the smell of chlorine and think that the pool may have too much chlorine in it. In fact, the conflicting is most likely the case. Not having enough chlorine in the pool will result in the chlorine smell and also lead to users suffering with sore eyes and itchy skin. The reason this is so, is that a by-product of chlorination is the creation of chloramines. These chloramines are the smelly little beasts that cause all the hassle. For being free from them, we require to add more chlorine. It is for this reason that, from time to time, the pool needs "superchlorination".
Heated Pool:
A heated pool will need extra chlorine than a non-heated pool. The reason for that is chlorine used up much more speedily in hot water. Stabilized chlorine products should not be used in heated pools as their effectiveness is greatly reduced.
Major Points to remember:
1. Always maintain a chlorine residual of 1.0 to 2.0 ppm (milligrams per litre)
2. Select the product that best suits you
3. Chlorine smell generally means not enough chlorine
4. A heated pool will require more chlorine
5. Never mix chemicals
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Clean Your Spa
The hot water in your portable spa may feel relaxing but its also a good home for bacterial and other microorganisms that can affect your health. To avoid trouble, keep your spa clean by using the right chemicals. The correct amount of sanitizers will kill these uninvited guests.
Below are some common chemicals that keep spas clean. Before using any of them, its wise to read your spas instruction manual since some products may not be compatible with the kind of spa you have.
Bromine - is similar to chlorine but is easier to use and doesn't have a bad smell. It creates bromamines - disinfectants that are odorless and less irritating than chloramines made by chlorine. Bromine is suitable for high water temperatures and is more stable as well.
Chlorine - is the oldest chemical for cleaning water. However, it has a strong smell and is irritating to the skin and eyes. Certain health problems have also been associated with the use of chlorine although the jury is still out on this mater.
Biguanide - is a sanitizer without chlorine or bromine that eliminates bacteria by attacking the cell wall. This is done with a hydrogen peroxide-based oxidizer that burns organic matter and keeps the water clear. This chemical produces fewer odors than chlorine or bromine.
Ozone - is an oxidizer that reduces the amount of sanitizers needed to keep the spa clean. It relies on a device called an ozonator. But you still need to clean your water with a low level of bromine or chlorine. Don't think that using an ozonator is enough to thoroughly sanitize your spa. Ozone works with bromine, chlorine, biguanide and mineral systems.
Below are some common chemicals that keep spas clean. Before using any of them, its wise to read your spas instruction manual since some products may not be compatible with the kind of spa you have.
Bromine - is similar to chlorine but is easier to use and doesn't have a bad smell. It creates bromamines - disinfectants that are odorless and less irritating than chloramines made by chlorine. Bromine is suitable for high water temperatures and is more stable as well.
Chlorine - is the oldest chemical for cleaning water. However, it has a strong smell and is irritating to the skin and eyes. Certain health problems have also been associated with the use of chlorine although the jury is still out on this mater.
Biguanide - is a sanitizer without chlorine or bromine that eliminates bacteria by attacking the cell wall. This is done with a hydrogen peroxide-based oxidizer that burns organic matter and keeps the water clear. This chemical produces fewer odors than chlorine or bromine.
Ozone - is an oxidizer that reduces the amount of sanitizers needed to keep the spa clean. It relies on a device called an ozonator. But you still need to clean your water with a low level of bromine or chlorine. Don't think that using an ozonator is enough to thoroughly sanitize your spa. Ozone works with bromine, chlorine, biguanide and mineral systems.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Sidewalk pavers and pool fencing for your home
In all of New York's sidewalk pavers Queens has the best selection for residential projects. The variety of styles includes decorative, permeable, concrete, asphalt, brick or stone. This does not include all styles but is relative to the most common variety sought by homeowners. In selecting pool fence Staten Island holds the largest variety of styles and designs for the hard to please homeowner and also for those homeowners looking to stick to a budget. Both Queens and Staten Island are home to a great selection of contractors who can help you in your quest for the perfect sidewalk and pool fence to make your backyard your oasis away from your everyday life along with a beautiful place to entertain guest.
Sidewalks can be constructed from almost any materials you can find. The most common of all sidewalks are stone, concrete and brick. When you are looking for sidewalk pavers Queens has a wide range of contractors who can help you decide the type of sidewalk to install, give you an estimate and arrange for construction to commence. Each company has professional contractors who can complete the job in a timely manner as well as guarantee their work. You should ask friends and family for recommendations before committing to any contract. You should also never be afraid to ask for reference from the contractors themselves.
For selecting pool fence Staten Island is one of the finest areas to look. It is a matter of safety for not only a homeowner's children but for neighborhood children and pets to install a pool fence around your backyard pool. Staten Island professional fence contractors can advise you on the regulations for height of a pool fence. It is crucial that pool owners have locks and an alarm installed on their pool fence. When you want to locate a sidewalk paver Queens is the city to look in for the variety, style and quality you desire on a budget you can afford. When considering a pool and a pool fence Staten Island has a lot to offer pool owners in terms of fencing as well as safety.
Sidewalks can be constructed from almost any materials you can find. The most common of all sidewalks are stone, concrete and brick. When you are looking for sidewalk pavers Queens has a wide range of contractors who can help you decide the type of sidewalk to install, give you an estimate and arrange for construction to commence. Each company has professional contractors who can complete the job in a timely manner as well as guarantee their work. You should ask friends and family for recommendations before committing to any contract. You should also never be afraid to ask for reference from the contractors themselves.
For selecting pool fence Staten Island is one of the finest areas to look. It is a matter of safety for not only a homeowner's children but for neighborhood children and pets to install a pool fence around your backyard pool. Staten Island professional fence contractors can advise you on the regulations for height of a pool fence. It is crucial that pool owners have locks and an alarm installed on their pool fence. When you want to locate a sidewalk paver Queens is the city to look in for the variety, style and quality you desire on a budget you can afford. When considering a pool and a pool fence Staten Island has a lot to offer pool owners in terms of fencing as well as safety.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Swimming Pool Accessories make Extra Summer Fun
Are you looking to increase the amount of summer fun your family and friends will have in your swimming pool? After all, that's exactly what summer is about; laying back, letting loose and having a great time. If this is your goal for those hot days, then perhaps you should consider purchasing some of the most fun swimming pool accessories available.
One of the most standard and fun accessories are the pool slide. After being installed properly around the area of your pool you may climb up the ladder and slide down into the water below. This is great fun for everyone involved, especially the children, and if you want a custom design for maximum enjoyment, you can find these in shops around you area as well. One of the many favorites of those who have used these slides is the swirl, which winds down a beam in the center before tossing you in the pool.
If climbing up a ladder and sliding into the water isn't your cup of tea than perhaps laying in the pool and floating around is? There are many assortments of inflatable floating pool chairs that you can purchase that enable you to kick back, sip your drink of choice and catch some summer rays. In addition to inflatable chairs, one can find special wooden and hardened plastic models available as well. These are much more durable than their air-filled counterparts and won't run the risk of becoming popped by a sharp object piercing its shell.
Another great addition to your summer pool fun is the goggles and snorkels. A big hit with both kids and parents alike, goggles and snorkels can allow you to float around while submerged in water, giving you a clear view of whatever lies beneath. You can dive for objects with the goggles or just lay at the top of the pool with the snorkel, uninterrupted by outside distractions. In addition to giving you a clear view of the swimming pool water, the goggles will also protect sensitive eyes from the chlorine in the pool that helps kill moss and algae.
All in all, swimming pools can be very fun by themselves, without any additional products. But you'll find out that once you do jazz up your experience with these extra accessories, your time spent in the pool will be much more fun and not only for yourself, but your friends and family as well. If you'd like to learn more about swimming pool accessories, please visit the Swimming Pool Hut.
One of the most standard and fun accessories are the pool slide. After being installed properly around the area of your pool you may climb up the ladder and slide down into the water below. This is great fun for everyone involved, especially the children, and if you want a custom design for maximum enjoyment, you can find these in shops around you area as well. One of the many favorites of those who have used these slides is the swirl, which winds down a beam in the center before tossing you in the pool.
If climbing up a ladder and sliding into the water isn't your cup of tea than perhaps laying in the pool and floating around is? There are many assortments of inflatable floating pool chairs that you can purchase that enable you to kick back, sip your drink of choice and catch some summer rays. In addition to inflatable chairs, one can find special wooden and hardened plastic models available as well. These are much more durable than their air-filled counterparts and won't run the risk of becoming popped by a sharp object piercing its shell.
Another great addition to your summer pool fun is the goggles and snorkels. A big hit with both kids and parents alike, goggles and snorkels can allow you to float around while submerged in water, giving you a clear view of whatever lies beneath. You can dive for objects with the goggles or just lay at the top of the pool with the snorkel, uninterrupted by outside distractions. In addition to giving you a clear view of the swimming pool water, the goggles will also protect sensitive eyes from the chlorine in the pool that helps kill moss and algae.
All in all, swimming pools can be very fun by themselves, without any additional products. But you'll find out that once you do jazz up your experience with these extra accessories, your time spent in the pool will be much more fun and not only for yourself, but your friends and family as well. If you'd like to learn more about swimming pool accessories, please visit the Swimming Pool Hut.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Automated Pool Cleaners
There are people who think that pools are merely in-ground and above ground holes that are filled with water. On the face of it, it may seem so but in fact there is a lot more to a pool that just that. The filtration system and the pumping system are considered the heart of any pool system which is hidden from the view. Pool water can get contaminated easily. Things like dirt, twigs, leaves, frogs, dead insects and unidentified debris pose a constant risk of pool water contamination.
To expand your knowledge about the different ways in which pool water gets and contaminated and the different ways in which you could clean your pool, you should do some research over the internet. There is ample amount of information present on the internet that would help you regarding these issues. Pool filters are a great way of cleaning your pool. These filters are available in different types and do there job perfectly.
But with the advancement in technology, automated or robotic pool cleaners have found there way in the market. These come with sensitive cleaners and are programmed to do just one thing which is to clean your pool water. They have a waterproof cord attached that floats with them. The rear end of this cord is attached to an electrical outlet. Robotic pool cleaners can be controlled by a remote control or let on its own to do its job.
These creep along the pool floor and suck debris which is collected in the bag. Once the bag is full, all you have to do is to pull the cleaner out, empty the contents of the bag, load the bag and it the pool cleaner back in the pool for cleaning.
Robotic pool cleaners have cartridges and filter bags that it uses to capture different kinds of debris and particles that may be as small as 5 to 2 microns in terms of size. Pool cleaners also conserve water as debris is contained within the bags which do not require backwashing for cleaning.
To expand your knowledge about the different ways in which pool water gets and contaminated and the different ways in which you could clean your pool, you should do some research over the internet. There is ample amount of information present on the internet that would help you regarding these issues. Pool filters are a great way of cleaning your pool. These filters are available in different types and do there job perfectly.
But with the advancement in technology, automated or robotic pool cleaners have found there way in the market. These come with sensitive cleaners and are programmed to do just one thing which is to clean your pool water. They have a waterproof cord attached that floats with them. The rear end of this cord is attached to an electrical outlet. Robotic pool cleaners can be controlled by a remote control or let on its own to do its job.
These creep along the pool floor and suck debris which is collected in the bag. Once the bag is full, all you have to do is to pull the cleaner out, empty the contents of the bag, load the bag and it the pool cleaner back in the pool for cleaning.
Robotic pool cleaners have cartridges and filter bags that it uses to capture different kinds of debris and particles that may be as small as 5 to 2 microns in terms of size. Pool cleaners also conserve water as debris is contained within the bags which do not require backwashing for cleaning.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Hot Tub Spas: Home Cozy Home
Every now and then, whenever we visit a resort, a sheer craving to have those facilities in our backyard leave us feeling a bit disappointed. Now, you can add that glitter and coziness in your home, you always want – a hot tub complementing by greenery and your backyard spa resort is ready. Interestingly, by adding a simple Hot Tub to your home, you can really boost the vibes of the place and make yourself feel – more related to your home. The sense of belongings does come from within, but you can take care of the surroundings to make it stronger. This highly valuable luxury item not only adds up to your home value, but also provides you that preferred relaxation, luxury and warmth.
One basic feature that makes these hot tubs so special is that they easily get along with the surroundings of our home. And now that there are innumerable features are available, you can easily personalized they tubs according to your style and expectations. Over the years, these portable tubs have become a perfect choice for home improvement. There is a comprehensive collection of such tubs. While choosing a hot tub, you should remember a few things:
1. You can customize your spa by adding your kind of colors to it. Well, there is a huge collection of colors available in the market. In fact, you can also create your own colors. At the same time, you should remember that your hot tub color does match with your outdoor furniture. If you choose the color of the tub as per your home ambiance, then it would certainly appear like another part of the house. It would make you feel more comfortable.
2. Music is another important ingredient in making it a worthwhile and stimulating endeavor. Well, modern spas do come with on-board music systems. You can choose your favorite music system or speakers to enjoy your favorite tracks while relaxing.
3. Hot tubs are all about comfort. Thus, they should be ergonomically designed to offer you the ultimate coziness. You can get them designed, according to your preferences. All the controls should be at the right places and user friendly.
One basic feature that makes these hot tubs so special is that they easily get along with the surroundings of our home. And now that there are innumerable features are available, you can easily personalized they tubs according to your style and expectations. Over the years, these portable tubs have become a perfect choice for home improvement. There is a comprehensive collection of such tubs. While choosing a hot tub, you should remember a few things:
1. You can customize your spa by adding your kind of colors to it. Well, there is a huge collection of colors available in the market. In fact, you can also create your own colors. At the same time, you should remember that your hot tub color does match with your outdoor furniture. If you choose the color of the tub as per your home ambiance, then it would certainly appear like another part of the house. It would make you feel more comfortable.
2. Music is another important ingredient in making it a worthwhile and stimulating endeavor. Well, modern spas do come with on-board music systems. You can choose your favorite music system or speakers to enjoy your favorite tracks while relaxing.
3. Hot tubs are all about comfort. Thus, they should be ergonomically designed to offer you the ultimate coziness. You can get them designed, according to your preferences. All the controls should be at the right places and user friendly.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Top 10 Hotel Swimming Pool number1
Cliffside Pool, Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc, FranceThe majestic infinity-edge pool of the fabled Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc is forged into cliffs along the rugged Cap d'Antibes coast just outside Cannes. Filled with ocean salt water and heated on cooler days, it looks out on the Lérins Islands and the glassy Cannes Bay, where the gin palace yachts of the celebrities and tycoons who stay here bob on the water. On a secluded cement terrace, hidden among rocks above the pool, cocktail waiters tend to guests reclining in private cabanas on deck chairs under glossy white umbrellas. Almost as spectacular as the views are the celebrity sightings of the likes of Kate Moss, Bruce Willis,
and Johnny Depp.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
The Real Solar Pool Heaters Performance
Are you thinking about using a solar pool heater to get your pool up to temperature? What is the real solar pool heaters performance? There is a great way to answer this question and with the personal experience that can be gained by not only building the heater yourself, but also enjoying the benefits of a longer season of swimming and warmer water. Here is what you can expect.
First, let us go over what exactly a solar pool heater is and what the best choices are for this type of heater. A solar heater for a pool is basically one that uses the sun to heat the water in your pool. There is a pump that will pump the water up through a set of black plastic tubes that will heat up from the sun. There are a few problems with most of solar heaters that are on the market though, so here is what you should do.
You should build your own heater because it is much cheaper and will do more for you as well. You will need some pvc piping, a shut off valve, a pump, and a large amount of black tubing. All you have to do is use the pvc tubing to get the water out of the pool and, then back in as well. Install the shut off valve on the end of the pvc that is going to run the water back into the pool.
The black tubing runs in between the two sets of pvc pipes and needs to be very long. You will want to coil this tubing on a roof top going back and forth. You can secure it with a couple of 2 by 4s with holes cut in them. You will have to make sure this tubing is in direct sunlight as much as possible and run the heater during the hottest hours of the day. You can plug the pump into a timer that can turn it on and off with the hottest hours of the day.
So, what is the real solar pool heaters performance? Having had personal experience with this in a climate that allows for good swimming from Memorial day to Labor day or shortly after. Our pool went from the low 70s with not heater to the mid 80s with our solar heater. We were also able to extend our swimming season into the beginning to middle of October and we opened the pool at the beginning of May or end of April instead of Memorial day.
First, let us go over what exactly a solar pool heater is and what the best choices are for this type of heater. A solar heater for a pool is basically one that uses the sun to heat the water in your pool. There is a pump that will pump the water up through a set of black plastic tubes that will heat up from the sun. There are a few problems with most of solar heaters that are on the market though, so here is what you should do.
You should build your own heater because it is much cheaper and will do more for you as well. You will need some pvc piping, a shut off valve, a pump, and a large amount of black tubing. All you have to do is use the pvc tubing to get the water out of the pool and, then back in as well. Install the shut off valve on the end of the pvc that is going to run the water back into the pool.
The black tubing runs in between the two sets of pvc pipes and needs to be very long. You will want to coil this tubing on a roof top going back and forth. You can secure it with a couple of 2 by 4s with holes cut in them. You will have to make sure this tubing is in direct sunlight as much as possible and run the heater during the hottest hours of the day. You can plug the pump into a timer that can turn it on and off with the hottest hours of the day.
So, what is the real solar pool heaters performance? Having had personal experience with this in a climate that allows for good swimming from Memorial day to Labor day or shortly after. Our pool went from the low 70s with not heater to the mid 80s with our solar heater. We were also able to extend our swimming season into the beginning to middle of October and we opened the pool at the beginning of May or end of April instead of Memorial day.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Heat Pumps -An Efficient Way to Heat Your Pool
There's no two ways about it - most pools aren't at a good temperature for swimming in year round. When winter makes the contrast of a chilly dip unpleasant rather than a relief, having a swimming pool heat pump can be a total boon. Not only will you increase the value of your home by installing one of these, you'll also make room for a ton of great family memories, and provide a way to keep fit in winter without making yourself sick.
There are a number of ways to heat a pool, including the use of swimming pool heat pumps, gas or solar panels. Swimming pool heat pumps don't generate heat. Instead they use electricity to capture heat and move it from one location to another. As the swimming pool's water is circulated by the pump, it is passed through a filter into which a heat pump is incorporated. The heat pump's fan draws outside air in, directing it over an evaporator coil containing a liquid refrigerant agent. This agent absorbs the air, becoming a warm gas that then passes through a compressor, becoming hotter as its particles are pushed more closely together.
The now hotter agent passes through a condenser, which transfers the heat of the gas to the relatively cool pool water circulating through the other end of the heater, returning to the pool where it increases the overall warmth of the pool, even as the gas returns to liquid form and goes back to the evaporator for its next cycle.
All science aside, essentially what swimming pool heat pumps represent is a more energy efficient solution to the problem of keeping your pool warm year-round. They work better than other in ground pool heaters, such as those involving solar paneling, because they're less seriously affected by changes in weather and the absence of direct sunlight. While they cost initially more than gas pump heating solutions, their long term cost is less due to their higher efficiency levels, in addition to which they have a significantly longer life span.
It's obvious that as with any machine that involves gas, heat coils and such, heat pumps for swimming pools are not things that you want installed in anything but the most professional manner. Make sure that the job's being done by someone with all the proper credentials (yes, there are pool professional credentials), preferably someone recommended to you by friends or family. Poor installation can mean that the pool pump won't operate optimally - you're going need someone that understands the physics and energy requirements of inground pool heaters.
The second uppermost concern is whether, even if you can afford to front the initials costs of installation, you're really ready for the financial burden of such a heating system. You may need to regiment how long your Swimming Pool Heat Pump is on each day to ensure your children don't saddle you with a debt you can't pay at month's end.
There are a number of ways to heat a pool, including the use of swimming pool heat pumps, gas or solar panels. Swimming pool heat pumps don't generate heat. Instead they use electricity to capture heat and move it from one location to another. As the swimming pool's water is circulated by the pump, it is passed through a filter into which a heat pump is incorporated. The heat pump's fan draws outside air in, directing it over an evaporator coil containing a liquid refrigerant agent. This agent absorbs the air, becoming a warm gas that then passes through a compressor, becoming hotter as its particles are pushed more closely together.
The now hotter agent passes through a condenser, which transfers the heat of the gas to the relatively cool pool water circulating through the other end of the heater, returning to the pool where it increases the overall warmth of the pool, even as the gas returns to liquid form and goes back to the evaporator for its next cycle.
All science aside, essentially what swimming pool heat pumps represent is a more energy efficient solution to the problem of keeping your pool warm year-round. They work better than other in ground pool heaters, such as those involving solar paneling, because they're less seriously affected by changes in weather and the absence of direct sunlight. While they cost initially more than gas pump heating solutions, their long term cost is less due to their higher efficiency levels, in addition to which they have a significantly longer life span.
It's obvious that as with any machine that involves gas, heat coils and such, heat pumps for swimming pools are not things that you want installed in anything but the most professional manner. Make sure that the job's being done by someone with all the proper credentials (yes, there are pool professional credentials), preferably someone recommended to you by friends or family. Poor installation can mean that the pool pump won't operate optimally - you're going need someone that understands the physics and energy requirements of inground pool heaters.
The second uppermost concern is whether, even if you can afford to front the initials costs of installation, you're really ready for the financial burden of such a heating system. You may need to regiment how long your Swimming Pool Heat Pump is on each day to ensure your children don't saddle you with a debt you can't pay at month's end.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Natural Swimming Ponds
The outdoor swimming pool has always had to work hard to to look good in a natural setting, particularly in climates similar to the UK; afterall, there are not that many sunny days that inspire relaxing around the pool, as you would in the south of Spain for example. For this reason, the concept of the swimming pond really seems to be taking hold in temperate climates. The swimming pond is a body of water to swim in but that's where the similarity with the conventional swimming pool ends. This is a pond, and as such is a creation that uses nature and if designed well, enhances and settles into the garden landscape. This is a natural environment, an oasis for micro-organisms, plants and insects that all form part of the ecosystem, resulting in a crystal clear pool that when the sun does shine, is there to be enjoyed by us as well.
From a brief look at history, we have been swimming in rivers, lakes and ponds since the beginning of time and the big difference today is that we want to enjoy the water without catching something unpleasant.
The concept of using natural systems to clean the water for swimming is quite recent, dating back to the mid 70's in Austria where the green shoots of the environmental movement wanted a better swimming experience. Since then, many swimming ponds have been built on the continent, not only for private use but large public ponds as well. They say the water is good enough to drink once it is returned to the pond. In the UK the history is much shorter. The first private pond was constructed in 2001 but now 100's of pools have been built with a number of specialist companies currently designing and building in the market.
How does it work?
The concept is relatively simple; the idea is to create a swimming zone within the excavated area of the pond. This zone will be deep and large enough for the client's swimming needs. Around the swimming zone is a planted regeneration zone. A retaining wall between these two areas keeps them apart. The retaining wall tends to finish about 300mm below the water surface so that water can flow freely from the swimming zone to the regeneration zone. From a visual perspective, this allows the swimming zone to merge into the overall feel of the pond.
The pond is lined and the regeneration zone outside the swimming area filled with suitable aggregate which allows bacteria plenty of surface area to cling too. These bacteria perform the task of cleaning the water. A variety of bacteria decompose any organic matter, releasing nitrates and phosphates. Above the aggregates, plants not only feed on these nitrates and phosphates, but also transform the pool in to a natural pond nestling in its environment. Plants range from those that prefer deeper water such as lilies to those living in the margins and bog areas. Perforated pipes beneath the regeneration zone allow cleaned water to be drawn by a pump and returned to the swimming zone. Other components in the plumbing system includes skimmers for removing leaves and large debris, filters for finer particles and UV filters for added security.
The bacteria that do the work in the regeneration zone are aerobic so need oxygen. The plants help channel oxygen via their root systems but additional aeration is always a plus and can be built into a feature such as a waterfall or fountain. As a rule of thumb, the filter area should be as large as the swimming zone, in other words, 50% of the total area. Filter efficiency will vary depending on the aggregate used for the medium. The aggregate must not increase the pH above 7.5 so any limestone materials are out of the question. Gravels can be used but materials such as expanded clay and pumice offer much greater surface area for bacteria to live and multiply with the added benefit of being pH neutral. Where space is critical, or the design does not allow for a regeneration zone of the required proportions then biofilters are available. These are boxes filled with a high surface area material into which you introduce the bacteria. The water then passes though the filter and is cleaned. Don't forget though, if you want the look of a natural pond, then you need plenty of space devoted to the regeneration zone to achieve the desired effect.
In my next article we shall look deeper into the design and construction of a natural swimming pond. In the meantime, if you are interested, then please visit Mountain Pools where further details are available.
The article from EzineArticles.com
From a brief look at history, we have been swimming in rivers, lakes and ponds since the beginning of time and the big difference today is that we want to enjoy the water without catching something unpleasant.
The concept of using natural systems to clean the water for swimming is quite recent, dating back to the mid 70's in Austria where the green shoots of the environmental movement wanted a better swimming experience. Since then, many swimming ponds have been built on the continent, not only for private use but large public ponds as well. They say the water is good enough to drink once it is returned to the pond. In the UK the history is much shorter. The first private pond was constructed in 2001 but now 100's of pools have been built with a number of specialist companies currently designing and building in the market.
How does it work?
The concept is relatively simple; the idea is to create a swimming zone within the excavated area of the pond. This zone will be deep and large enough for the client's swimming needs. Around the swimming zone is a planted regeneration zone. A retaining wall between these two areas keeps them apart. The retaining wall tends to finish about 300mm below the water surface so that water can flow freely from the swimming zone to the regeneration zone. From a visual perspective, this allows the swimming zone to merge into the overall feel of the pond.
The pond is lined and the regeneration zone outside the swimming area filled with suitable aggregate which allows bacteria plenty of surface area to cling too. These bacteria perform the task of cleaning the water. A variety of bacteria decompose any organic matter, releasing nitrates and phosphates. Above the aggregates, plants not only feed on these nitrates and phosphates, but also transform the pool in to a natural pond nestling in its environment. Plants range from those that prefer deeper water such as lilies to those living in the margins and bog areas. Perforated pipes beneath the regeneration zone allow cleaned water to be drawn by a pump and returned to the swimming zone. Other components in the plumbing system includes skimmers for removing leaves and large debris, filters for finer particles and UV filters for added security.
The bacteria that do the work in the regeneration zone are aerobic so need oxygen. The plants help channel oxygen via their root systems but additional aeration is always a plus and can be built into a feature such as a waterfall or fountain. As a rule of thumb, the filter area should be as large as the swimming zone, in other words, 50% of the total area. Filter efficiency will vary depending on the aggregate used for the medium. The aggregate must not increase the pH above 7.5 so any limestone materials are out of the question. Gravels can be used but materials such as expanded clay and pumice offer much greater surface area for bacteria to live and multiply with the added benefit of being pH neutral. Where space is critical, or the design does not allow for a regeneration zone of the required proportions then biofilters are available. These are boxes filled with a high surface area material into which you introduce the bacteria. The water then passes though the filter and is cleaned. Don't forget though, if you want the look of a natural pond, then you need plenty of space devoted to the regeneration zone to achieve the desired effect.
In my next article we shall look deeper into the design and construction of a natural swimming pond. In the meantime, if you are interested, then please visit Mountain Pools where further details are available.
The article from EzineArticles.com
Q&A Waterline Tile on Fiberglass Pools
If you are considering the purchase of an inground fiberglass pool you probably have some questions about perimeter waterline tile. The purpose of this article is to answer the 6 most common questions we receive regarding tile on fiberglass pools:
What type of tile is used?
Essentially, the same tile is used on fiberglass pools as on concrete pools. Frost-proof ceramic tile is commonly used and glass tile is becoming more popular.
How is the tile installed on the pool?
The tile is applied to the surface of the fiberglass shell using silicone based adhesive and grout. Silicone products are used to allow the tile to flex and move with the pool. The silicone grout is significantly more resistant to staining than the cement based grout used on concrete pools.
How long will tile on a fiberglass pool last?
The life expectancy of perimeter tile on any pool is directly related to how well the pool owner keeps their water balanced. But on average pool tile will last eight to fourteen years.
How much does waterline tile cost?
The initial cost of waterline tile is typically $1,500 to $2,500. Tile replacement is normally approximately double the initial cost.
Can waterline tile be added later?
Although it is possible to install perimeter tile on a fiberglass pool at any time, it is very difficult to do it in a way that looks professional if done after the coping of the pool has been installed. It is essentially something that needs to be done when the pool is initially installed.
Does having waterline tile add significantly to the maintenance of a composite pool?
No. You may have to clean the grout lines between the tile once or twice a year for a total of one to two hours of additional maintenance per season.
Article from EzineArticles.com
What type of tile is used?
Essentially, the same tile is used on fiberglass pools as on concrete pools. Frost-proof ceramic tile is commonly used and glass tile is becoming more popular.
How is the tile installed on the pool?
The tile is applied to the surface of the fiberglass shell using silicone based adhesive and grout. Silicone products are used to allow the tile to flex and move with the pool. The silicone grout is significantly more resistant to staining than the cement based grout used on concrete pools.
How long will tile on a fiberglass pool last?
The life expectancy of perimeter tile on any pool is directly related to how well the pool owner keeps their water balanced. But on average pool tile will last eight to fourteen years.
How much does waterline tile cost?
The initial cost of waterline tile is typically $1,500 to $2,500. Tile replacement is normally approximately double the initial cost.
Can waterline tile be added later?
Although it is possible to install perimeter tile on a fiberglass pool at any time, it is very difficult to do it in a way that looks professional if done after the coping of the pool has been installed. It is essentially something that needs to be done when the pool is initially installed.
Does having waterline tile add significantly to the maintenance of a composite pool?
No. You may have to clean the grout lines between the tile once or twice a year for a total of one to two hours of additional maintenance per season.
Article from EzineArticles.com
Friday, January 29, 2010
Vinyl the popular option in swimming pools
As the summers approach, most of us yearn to cool our bodies in a lovely swimming. Pools are the most enjoyable and relaxing refuge from the scotching sun. They are a recreational area for numerous activities for people of all age groups. Kids like playing and splashing around in the pools while others find it a source of relaxing and rejuvenating activities. Swimming pools are also a good way for work out and overall fitness. Thus, a pool acts as a healthy option for some people while it is a source of fun and relaxation for others.
Generally swimming pools are categorised in two types. One can either opt for concrete swimming pools or vinyl pools Toronto. The decision totally depends upon your likings. But, broadly speaking the most popular among these two types of pools is vinyl pools. Installing these pools is easy and hassles free than the ground pools that need days to complete. These types of pools do not need frequent cleaning and thus are almost maintenance free. It is very easy to winterize vinyl pools than other types of pools. The smooth surface of the Vinyl pools offer resistance against stains and prevent the growth of bacteria, mainly algae in the pool. These pools come with their own designs and patterns therefore there is no need of colouring the pool for getting the desired shade and color in the pool. The flexible exterior of vinyl pools Toronto makes it very popular. The users of Vinyl pools do not worry about pool leakage or cracking. Vinyl finishing gives the property of elasticity to the surface thereby preventing cracking or hole in the pool ground.
Installing vinyl pools Toronto is comparatively a simple task. There are many professional firms in the locality that provide installation services as per your needs and requirements. So, in case you are planning to buy a swimming pool, do check out the option of vinyl pools.
Generally swimming pools are categorised in two types. One can either opt for concrete swimming pools or vinyl pools Toronto. The decision totally depends upon your likings. But, broadly speaking the most popular among these two types of pools is vinyl pools. Installing these pools is easy and hassles free than the ground pools that need days to complete. These types of pools do not need frequent cleaning and thus are almost maintenance free. It is very easy to winterize vinyl pools than other types of pools. The smooth surface of the Vinyl pools offer resistance against stains and prevent the growth of bacteria, mainly algae in the pool. These pools come with their own designs and patterns therefore there is no need of colouring the pool for getting the desired shade and color in the pool. The flexible exterior of vinyl pools Toronto makes it very popular. The users of Vinyl pools do not worry about pool leakage or cracking. Vinyl finishing gives the property of elasticity to the surface thereby preventing cracking or hole in the pool ground.
Installing vinyl pools Toronto is comparatively a simple task. There are many professional firms in the locality that provide installation services as per your needs and requirements. So, in case you are planning to buy a swimming pool, do check out the option of vinyl pools.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Taking Good Care of Your Swimming Pool The Different Ways
One of the best places in your home is your pool. It is where you hold parties for different occasions. It is where you hang out with family and friends during your spare times. It is a place where you can relax after a long-day office work. Indeed, your swimming pool becomes a part of your life.
Since you are truly benefiting a lot from your own swimming pool, it very important that you do your part to make it more ideal for us. Your pool deserves a good care. Taking care of your pool not just can prolong its life but it also a very good way to having a pool that will stand-out from the rest.
Here are some ideas on how can you give your pool the care that it truly deserves:
Clean it regularly
As a responsible owner, you need to clean your swimming pool regularly. In my case, I do the major cleaning once a week while I do the minor cleaning daily. Major cleaning involves removal of debris like stones, sand, and other foreign objects. My daily cleaning includes moving the leaves out of the pool as well as making my swimming pool accessories more organized. Some say it is quite hassle to clean a pool daily. Well, in my part, there's no 'cleaning as burden' issue as I have always been doing it with fun. I do the minor cleaning manually and I use an automatic cleaner when I do the major cleaning. So, you can do it too. Try to regularly clean your pool most especially during winter - avoid pool contamination.
Check it for potential leaks
When your pool has leaks, it is not just a waste of time when it becomes major but also it is a waste of money. Therefore have your pool regularly checked from leaks before it's too late. You can have it done by carefully examining the level of water. When you suspect a leak because of immediate dropping of water level then act accordingly. You can do the fixing by yourself when it is minor but when you indeed discover that the leaks are major, better ask for a help from a professional pool builder. It is better to be sure than sorry.
Proper cleaning and placement of pool accessories
Not only the pool itself needs cleaning but also the accessories you use in swimming. Clean the pool slides, the floats, and other stuff. When not needed, put your pool accessories to their places. If you have inflatable slide, you can also keep the stuff when not in use. Slides that are made of rubber or plastic materials can easily get damaged when they are exposed to sunlight.
So, above are just few tips to make the most out of your pool. Be a responsible owner.
Since you are truly benefiting a lot from your own swimming pool, it very important that you do your part to make it more ideal for us. Your pool deserves a good care. Taking care of your pool not just can prolong its life but it also a very good way to having a pool that will stand-out from the rest.
Here are some ideas on how can you give your pool the care that it truly deserves:
Clean it regularly
As a responsible owner, you need to clean your swimming pool regularly. In my case, I do the major cleaning once a week while I do the minor cleaning daily. Major cleaning involves removal of debris like stones, sand, and other foreign objects. My daily cleaning includes moving the leaves out of the pool as well as making my swimming pool accessories more organized. Some say it is quite hassle to clean a pool daily. Well, in my part, there's no 'cleaning as burden' issue as I have always been doing it with fun. I do the minor cleaning manually and I use an automatic cleaner when I do the major cleaning. So, you can do it too. Try to regularly clean your pool most especially during winter - avoid pool contamination.
Check it for potential leaks
When your pool has leaks, it is not just a waste of time when it becomes major but also it is a waste of money. Therefore have your pool regularly checked from leaks before it's too late. You can have it done by carefully examining the level of water. When you suspect a leak because of immediate dropping of water level then act accordingly. You can do the fixing by yourself when it is minor but when you indeed discover that the leaks are major, better ask for a help from a professional pool builder. It is better to be sure than sorry.
Proper cleaning and placement of pool accessories
Not only the pool itself needs cleaning but also the accessories you use in swimming. Clean the pool slides, the floats, and other stuff. When not needed, put your pool accessories to their places. If you have inflatable slide, you can also keep the stuff when not in use. Slides that are made of rubber or plastic materials can easily get damaged when they are exposed to sunlight.
So, above are just few tips to make the most out of your pool. Be a responsible owner.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Make the Most of Your Swimming Pool
There are many reliable websites on the Internet, which provide substantial information on swimming pools in Mississauga. This is really an exciting prospect, as you do not need to go out and meet the dealers - a simple online search would enable you to get detailed information without hassles. We all dream of having a superb swimming pool in our home. From its designing to other specifications, we do pay equal attention to pools and other related aspects - to make it a rewarding endeavor for ourselves in a longer run. By choosing a dealer online, you can easily pay through a credit card. In the age of Internet, it is pretty easy to get things or transaction done as quickly as possible. At the same time, it is absolutely secure and does not involve any sort of paperwork. As per your preferences, the pool would be shipped out to you after it would be customized.
Earlier, pools were limited to notable spas and hotels, but now with the emergence of online sellers and growing popularity of swimming pools in Mississauga, it has become a lot easier to get a pool of your dream. The obvious reason behind the growing popularity of such pools is that they can be easily customized. Hence, they can be fitted to any space. In fact, you can attach your pool to your garden or terrace - to realize your dreams. These pools can be easily designed as per your needs or requirements. As per your requirements, you can either go for traditional pool or order for unique ones - as per your preferences.
With swimming pools Mississauga, you get all the options. Hence, there are all sorts of pools made of plaster, concrete, tiles and stones among others. They are not just pools, but also say a lot about your grand lifestyle. You can attach other important accessories to your pool including outdoor grills, lounging decks and swings for kids among other options.
Earlier, pools were limited to notable spas and hotels, but now with the emergence of online sellers and growing popularity of swimming pools in Mississauga, it has become a lot easier to get a pool of your dream. The obvious reason behind the growing popularity of such pools is that they can be easily customized. Hence, they can be fitted to any space. In fact, you can attach your pool to your garden or terrace - to realize your dreams. These pools can be easily designed as per your needs or requirements. As per your requirements, you can either go for traditional pool or order for unique ones - as per your preferences.
With swimming pools Mississauga, you get all the options. Hence, there are all sorts of pools made of plaster, concrete, tiles and stones among others. They are not just pools, but also say a lot about your grand lifestyle. You can attach other important accessories to your pool including outdoor grills, lounging decks and swings for kids among other options.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Villas with Pools in Portugal
With the heat of the Portuguese summer regularly averaging around 28°C, holiday villas with private pools are often sought after for the soothing relief they can offer from the midday sun. But even in balmier seasons, a pool just outside the back door is seen as a notable boon by most holidaymakers - providing the ability to relax by the waters' edge of an evening, without the trouble of heading across town to the seaside.
Certain villas with pools in Portugal, such as Almoçageme's Casa da Adraga, offer both a pool and a coastal position, giving visitors a choice between settings whenever they fancy a refreshing dip. A particularly nice touch with the layout of Casa da Adraga is the pool's location, right out on the roof terrace providing stunning views right out from the water. However, for a little more garden space around the pool area, holidaymakers would do well to consider Casa Nafarros - a spacious, eight-person private villa with a swimming pool set amidst beautiful, well-kept grounds and surroundings. All rooms of the property open right out onto the pool area, lending a real feeling of al fresco living.
Finally, if you are seeking a villa with a pool whilst remaining out in the rural Portuguese countryside, then Casa do Southino is certainly worth consideration. The villa is rustic and characterful, with a swimming pool that looks out over the picturesque hills - providing beautiful evening views of the nearby village, Alvarenga.
This Article From GoArticles.Com
Certain villas with pools in Portugal, such as Almoçageme's Casa da Adraga, offer both a pool and a coastal position, giving visitors a choice between settings whenever they fancy a refreshing dip. A particularly nice touch with the layout of Casa da Adraga is the pool's location, right out on the roof terrace providing stunning views right out from the water. However, for a little more garden space around the pool area, holidaymakers would do well to consider Casa Nafarros - a spacious, eight-person private villa with a swimming pool set amidst beautiful, well-kept grounds and surroundings. All rooms of the property open right out onto the pool area, lending a real feeling of al fresco living.
Finally, if you are seeking a villa with a pool whilst remaining out in the rural Portuguese countryside, then Casa do Southino is certainly worth consideration. The villa is rustic and characterful, with a swimming pool that looks out over the picturesque hills - providing beautiful evening views of the nearby village, Alvarenga.
This Article From GoArticles.Com
Monday, January 25, 2010
Five Tips for Swimming Pool Cover
5 Things to look for when choosing a swimming pool cover
Swimming pool covers come in a variety of shapes sizes
and general types. There are solar swimming pool covers that work to keep the water warm as well as warm the water using the suns heat. Safety pool covers do just what it says it does
it keeps the swimming pool safe from unwanted entry of the humans or animals. In ground and above ground winter swimming pool covers
keep dirt
debris
and animals out of your pool during the winter season. It also prevents growth on the inside of your swimming pool that can be caused by the winter elements.
Here are a few things you should look for when shopping for a pool cover for your above ground or in ground swimming pool.
1. Find a swimming pool cover that is strong and sturdy. The cover should not only keep your swimming pool clean
it should add safety as well for humans and animals alike. It should prevent accidental drowning and dirt and debris from entering the pool.
2. Make sure the swimming pool cover conforms to state and local law requirements. Some areas require that a certain size and depth of pool be covered when not in use. There are specific requirements that these covers must meet. Check with your local authorities to ensure that your swimming pool cover meets the requirements needed.
3. Make sure your chosen swimming pool cover comes with a good manufacturer’s warranty. In general
the swimming pool cover should come with a warranty of longer than 2 years. It should definitely have a full 2-year warranty for all defects and longer for limited warranties. You only want a pool cover that can be trusted and is safe with a full warranty for a lengthy amount of time. you also need to be sure the company stands behind their products.
4. Make sure the pool cover has a good overlap length. You should buy a size that is a little larger than your pool. This will enable you to securely anchor the swimming pool cover without having to worry about not being able to cover your pool completely.
5. Make sure the swimming pool cover comes with enough parts to securely anchor the cover without worry of slippage. Most larger swimming pool covers come with a strap or anchor for every four feet of cover. You definitely want a good amount of anchoring so the cover will continue to be secure each time you use it.
There you have it! The top 5 things you should look for when you are buying a swimming pool cover for any size pool and for any material type. You can purchase quality swimming pool covers at your local swimming pool supply store or at any department store that sells swimming pool gear and supplies. Carefully read all instructions provided by the manufacturer and ensure that the cover meets all requirements in your local area. Always think safety first when you own a swimming pool.
Swimming pool covers come in a variety of shapes sizes
and general types. There are solar swimming pool covers that work to keep the water warm as well as warm the water using the suns heat. Safety pool covers do just what it says it does
it keeps the swimming pool safe from unwanted entry of the humans or animals. In ground and above ground winter swimming pool covers
keep dirt
debris
and animals out of your pool during the winter season. It also prevents growth on the inside of your swimming pool that can be caused by the winter elements.
Here are a few things you should look for when shopping for a pool cover for your above ground or in ground swimming pool.
1. Find a swimming pool cover that is strong and sturdy. The cover should not only keep your swimming pool clean
it should add safety as well for humans and animals alike. It should prevent accidental drowning and dirt and debris from entering the pool.
2. Make sure the swimming pool cover conforms to state and local law requirements. Some areas require that a certain size and depth of pool be covered when not in use. There are specific requirements that these covers must meet. Check with your local authorities to ensure that your swimming pool cover meets the requirements needed.
3. Make sure your chosen swimming pool cover comes with a good manufacturer’s warranty. In general
the swimming pool cover should come with a warranty of longer than 2 years. It should definitely have a full 2-year warranty for all defects and longer for limited warranties. You only want a pool cover that can be trusted and is safe with a full warranty for a lengthy amount of time. you also need to be sure the company stands behind their products.
4. Make sure the pool cover has a good overlap length. You should buy a size that is a little larger than your pool. This will enable you to securely anchor the swimming pool cover without having to worry about not being able to cover your pool completely.
5. Make sure the swimming pool cover comes with enough parts to securely anchor the cover without worry of slippage. Most larger swimming pool covers come with a strap or anchor for every four feet of cover. You definitely want a good amount of anchoring so the cover will continue to be secure each time you use it.
There you have it! The top 5 things you should look for when you are buying a swimming pool cover for any size pool and for any material type. You can purchase quality swimming pool covers at your local swimming pool supply store or at any department store that sells swimming pool gear and supplies. Carefully read all instructions provided by the manufacturer and ensure that the cover meets all requirements in your local area. Always think safety first when you own a swimming pool.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
When you Shop for Swimming Pool Ladders
The swimming pool ladders come in a variety of sizes and designs to suit the different types of requirements pool owners might have. You can also purchase handrails solely or separately if you wish. Generally, the ladder and handrail items are of good quality and require little cleaning and specific maintenance. They are also quite reasonably priced.
Before starting your shopping search for the right ladder, you should decide whether you need one first. If your pool is not very deep or if it is an above ground one the steps seem to be the better solution. Still, the swimming pool ladders offer a reliable and safe pool entry and exist and are quite elegant. They are perfect for installation in facilities which are used primarily for swimming given their compact and sophisticated design.
Usually the standard pool requires no more than one or two ladders, but the choice is completely up to you. You can also decide on the number of steps of the item. The standard choices are anywhere between two and five. We recommended to go for a model with three steps for two main reasons. It is convenient enough to provide comfortable enough pool entry and exit and it will not get in the way of swimmers. However, if the pool is primarily used by children and/or elderly people, you should opt for a ladder with more steps that will make its use more effortless.
The high quality swimming pool ladders are made from stainless steel. They usually have additional protective coating, but the pool chemicals can effect its surface. That is why you have to take good care of the items in your pool to prevent any oxidation or corrosion. It is a best to provide seasonal cleaning as well as regular one especially if you are using your pool regularly. There are a number of commercial cleaning products that you can use effectively each providing an adequate removal of stains and/or marks. You should follow the instructions closely. It is also a good idea to polish the ladder rails for better protection and shinier looks.
The majority of swimming pool ladders are easy to install and you do not have to use the aid of professionals as long as you have the appropriate manual and tools. Before making a purchase of a model, however, you will have to check whether all parts necessary for the installation are included in the package or have to be bought separately.
Before starting your shopping search for the right ladder, you should decide whether you need one first. If your pool is not very deep or if it is an above ground one the steps seem to be the better solution. Still, the swimming pool ladders offer a reliable and safe pool entry and exist and are quite elegant. They are perfect for installation in facilities which are used primarily for swimming given their compact and sophisticated design.
Usually the standard pool requires no more than one or two ladders, but the choice is completely up to you. You can also decide on the number of steps of the item. The standard choices are anywhere between two and five. We recommended to go for a model with three steps for two main reasons. It is convenient enough to provide comfortable enough pool entry and exit and it will not get in the way of swimmers. However, if the pool is primarily used by children and/or elderly people, you should opt for a ladder with more steps that will make its use more effortless.
The high quality swimming pool ladders are made from stainless steel. They usually have additional protective coating, but the pool chemicals can effect its surface. That is why you have to take good care of the items in your pool to prevent any oxidation or corrosion. It is a best to provide seasonal cleaning as well as regular one especially if you are using your pool regularly. There are a number of commercial cleaning products that you can use effectively each providing an adequate removal of stains and/or marks. You should follow the instructions closely. It is also a good idea to polish the ladder rails for better protection and shinier looks.
The majority of swimming pool ladders are easy to install and you do not have to use the aid of professionals as long as you have the appropriate manual and tools. Before making a purchase of a model, however, you will have to check whether all parts necessary for the installation are included in the package or have to be bought separately.
Palm Tree
1. Create a wish list. You may have been dreaming of a swimming pool for years, and you may think you know exactly what you want. But it pays to read up on the latest technology and gather ideas. Once you’ve done a little homework, you’ll be ready to speak to your pool builder about what it is you want out of a swimming pool. He’ll be able to help you crystallize how you plan to use the swimming pool and can suggest styles, materials, designs, and blueprints to make your dream a reality.
2. Create a look book. It’s often difficult to put your ideas into words. Pool builders and designers appreciate when customers come to them with pictures from magazines, websites, or even scenic photos taken on vacation. They give your pool builder a good sense of what you’re interested in and how to incorporate your style preferences into the swimming pool design. It also ensures that you and your builder are on the same page.
3. Research pool building. Sure, that’s what this article is all about, but dig deeper. A swimming pool is an investment, just like a car or a home. You wouldn’t just buy any car on just any lot, would you? The same rules apply. There are many ways to build a swimming pool. Some are made of concrete, others are made of fiberglass, and still others are vinyl. And that’s just the first step. Coping, cleaning systems, filtering systems, artistic finishing touches. The list of variations goes on and on. Getting up to speed will allow you to speak your pool builder’s language and be more confident in the decision-making process.
4. Find a credible pool builder. Once you’ve made the decision to dive into swimming pool ownership, the best way to ensure a smooth building process is to choose a seasoned swimming pool construction professional. Check with friends, your local and regional pool builders associations, even the Better Business Bureau. Interview several candidates, and ask about their building philosophies. A good pool builder will offer examples of his work, provide references (be sure to check them), and be able to answer relevant questions. You’ll be working with this person for many months, so choose someone you feel comfortable with.
5. Know that shape is important. No, we’re not talking about body shapes. Swimming pool design is critical to both the overall aesthetic you’re trying to achieve and what you can actually do in the swiwmming pool. Rectangular designs are perfect for people wanting a classic, timeless look. They’re also great for games and swimming laps. Kidney and free-form swimming pools can blend with the surrounding vegetation and appear more natural. They also lend themselves to waterfalls and grottos. Choosing the wrong shape may mean you have a swimming pool that doesn’t really suit your lifestyle as well as it could.
6. Check the weather. Depending on where you live, the weather can dictate certain pool building decisions. People in colder climates should consider enclosures to prolong the pool season. Those living in wetter climates also enjoy the benefits of enclosures. In temperate climates—places where it never gets overly warm—pool heaters are useful. Windy areas, heavily treed areas, or places cold enough to close swimming pools for the season make swimming pool covers a good idea to stem evaporation, keep leaves and debris at bay, or protect the swimming pool when not in use. Many of these options are just plain good ideas, but your local weather can make them necessities.
7. Know what you want. Stop and think about why you’re installing a swimming pool. Is it for your kids? For entertaining? Is it an investment? Do you want it to make a dramatic architectural statement? Or is a relaxing retreat for you and your spouse? Answering these questions will help tell you what kind of swimming pool you want. A swimming pool for kids might include a slide and a wading area. It probably doesn’t need high-end glass tile finishing or a vanishing edge. But if you want something that is as visually appealing as it is enjoyable to use, you might consider a built-in water feature, more expensive coping, and a negative edge. A client with a clear sense of purpose is a builder’s best friend.
8. Establish a budget. You probably already know what you’re willing to spend on a new swimming pool, but it’s important to speak with your pool builder to gather more information and get a sense of what your project will cost. Your pool builder will be able to listen to what you want and give you an estimate on what it will cost to make it happen. You may have to adjust your plans, or you may find you have the resources to add to your initial concept. Either way, it’s important that both you and your builder know what your budget is from the start
9. Consider long-term costs. Owning a swimming pool is actually quite affordable. Upkeep, especially if you take a few energy-saving steps (more on that below), can literally cost pennies a day. But it’s best to have an idea of what those costs are. Factor in how much water it will take to keep your swimming pool full, cleaning and water maintenance costs, and any accessories (pool covers, filters, toys, etc.) you’ll need to purchase.
10. Check your local building codes. Yes, your pool builder can help you with this part immensely, but it’s a good idea to know the rules yourself. Some areas require perimeter fences of a certain height. Some require the fences to lock. Others require a fence around only the swimming pool itself. You’ll also want to inquire about building permits, building restrictions, noise policies, and property tax concerns.
11. Don’t forget about insurance. When establishing a budget, don’t forget to think long term. Contact your insurance carrier and find out if owning a swimming pool affects your homeowner’s policy—no one likes to be surprised.
12. Don’t skimp. Yes, we told you to stick to your budget (and that’s sound advice), but don’t settle if you can help it. Retrofitting a swimming pool is never as easy as the initial install. So, if you really want that slide or the cascading waterfall over the slab of granite, go for it. If it busts the budget, ask your pool builder where you might be able to save elsewhere. You never want the swimming pool that’s “almost perfect.”
13. Build in energy efficiency. It’s easier than ever to save on a swimming pool’s energy costs. Enclosures, pool covers, and pump and lighting timers can all pay for themselves in energy savings in a short amount of time. In cool climates, it can sometimes pay to shut your swimming pool down for the winter, rather than heat it.
14. Be green. Some shy away from swimming pools for fear of their environmental impact, but the industry has worked hard in the last few years to make pool owner and steward of the environment not mutually exclusive terms. Today’s pool heaters can be heated almost entirely using solar energy. There are even swimming pools filtered using totally natural methods—an attached pond does all the work—and many chemical water treatments can now be replaced by less harsh natural alternatives. Swimming pool covers also reduce the amount of water lost (and then replaced) due to evaporation.
15. Don’t forget water features. Elegant waterfalls, spouting sconces, bubbling fountains—people love water features almost as much as the swimming pools themselves. If you’re interested in adding a few jets to your swimming pool, though, it’s best to do it during the initial construction. Retrofitting can be tricky (and sometimes impossible, depending on your swimming pool and what you want done) without a major remodel. It also costs more than twice as much, typically, to install water features after the fact.
16. Plant with purpose. This is especially important when thinking about your budget. You won’t want that swimming pool sitting in the yard by itself, so consider what you’d like to plant and where. Avoid planting messy trees (pecans, gums, sycamores) or trees with far-reaching, shallow root systems (some oaks, birches, cypress) near your swimming pool, for instance. Instead go with bushy perennials that don’t grow as tall and can be moved if necessary.
17. Keep safety in mind. Beyond any required fencing your local codes require, consider what other safety measures you’ll want to have in place. Swimming pools can be equipped with alarms to alert you when someone or something enters the water. Child-proof locks on gates, and security alarms on windows to the backyard are also considerations.
18. Think about finishing touches. Things like coping, decking, and borders can make a swimming pool stand out. The materials used for each vary—stone, concrete, ceramic and glass tile—and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Discuss with you designer which options are right for you.
19. Put fun on the list. As the swimming pool nears completion, it’s time to enjoy yourself by gathering all those extras that make pool ownership fun. Toys, games, floats, swimsuits, patio furniture, you name it. Accessorizing is half the fun.
20. Plan your first pool party. Don’t forget to throw a big bash to celebrate your new swimming pool. Get the burgers on the grill, invite the kiddies’ friends (and a few of your own) over, and break in your swimming pool in style.
2. Create a look book. It’s often difficult to put your ideas into words. Pool builders and designers appreciate when customers come to them with pictures from magazines, websites, or even scenic photos taken on vacation. They give your pool builder a good sense of what you’re interested in and how to incorporate your style preferences into the swimming pool design. It also ensures that you and your builder are on the same page.
3. Research pool building. Sure, that’s what this article is all about, but dig deeper. A swimming pool is an investment, just like a car or a home. You wouldn’t just buy any car on just any lot, would you? The same rules apply. There are many ways to build a swimming pool. Some are made of concrete, others are made of fiberglass, and still others are vinyl. And that’s just the first step. Coping, cleaning systems, filtering systems, artistic finishing touches. The list of variations goes on and on. Getting up to speed will allow you to speak your pool builder’s language and be more confident in the decision-making process.
4. Find a credible pool builder. Once you’ve made the decision to dive into swimming pool ownership, the best way to ensure a smooth building process is to choose a seasoned swimming pool construction professional. Check with friends, your local and regional pool builders associations, even the Better Business Bureau. Interview several candidates, and ask about their building philosophies. A good pool builder will offer examples of his work, provide references (be sure to check them), and be able to answer relevant questions. You’ll be working with this person for many months, so choose someone you feel comfortable with.
5. Know that shape is important. No, we’re not talking about body shapes. Swimming pool design is critical to both the overall aesthetic you’re trying to achieve and what you can actually do in the swiwmming pool. Rectangular designs are perfect for people wanting a classic, timeless look. They’re also great for games and swimming laps. Kidney and free-form swimming pools can blend with the surrounding vegetation and appear more natural. They also lend themselves to waterfalls and grottos. Choosing the wrong shape may mean you have a swimming pool that doesn’t really suit your lifestyle as well as it could.
6. Check the weather. Depending on where you live, the weather can dictate certain pool building decisions. People in colder climates should consider enclosures to prolong the pool season. Those living in wetter climates also enjoy the benefits of enclosures. In temperate climates—places where it never gets overly warm—pool heaters are useful. Windy areas, heavily treed areas, or places cold enough to close swimming pools for the season make swimming pool covers a good idea to stem evaporation, keep leaves and debris at bay, or protect the swimming pool when not in use. Many of these options are just plain good ideas, but your local weather can make them necessities.
7. Know what you want. Stop and think about why you’re installing a swimming pool. Is it for your kids? For entertaining? Is it an investment? Do you want it to make a dramatic architectural statement? Or is a relaxing retreat for you and your spouse? Answering these questions will help tell you what kind of swimming pool you want. A swimming pool for kids might include a slide and a wading area. It probably doesn’t need high-end glass tile finishing or a vanishing edge. But if you want something that is as visually appealing as it is enjoyable to use, you might consider a built-in water feature, more expensive coping, and a negative edge. A client with a clear sense of purpose is a builder’s best friend.
8. Establish a budget. You probably already know what you’re willing to spend on a new swimming pool, but it’s important to speak with your pool builder to gather more information and get a sense of what your project will cost. Your pool builder will be able to listen to what you want and give you an estimate on what it will cost to make it happen. You may have to adjust your plans, or you may find you have the resources to add to your initial concept. Either way, it’s important that both you and your builder know what your budget is from the start
9. Consider long-term costs. Owning a swimming pool is actually quite affordable. Upkeep, especially if you take a few energy-saving steps (more on that below), can literally cost pennies a day. But it’s best to have an idea of what those costs are. Factor in how much water it will take to keep your swimming pool full, cleaning and water maintenance costs, and any accessories (pool covers, filters, toys, etc.) you’ll need to purchase.
10. Check your local building codes. Yes, your pool builder can help you with this part immensely, but it’s a good idea to know the rules yourself. Some areas require perimeter fences of a certain height. Some require the fences to lock. Others require a fence around only the swimming pool itself. You’ll also want to inquire about building permits, building restrictions, noise policies, and property tax concerns.
11. Don’t forget about insurance. When establishing a budget, don’t forget to think long term. Contact your insurance carrier and find out if owning a swimming pool affects your homeowner’s policy—no one likes to be surprised.
12. Don’t skimp. Yes, we told you to stick to your budget (and that’s sound advice), but don’t settle if you can help it. Retrofitting a swimming pool is never as easy as the initial install. So, if you really want that slide or the cascading waterfall over the slab of granite, go for it. If it busts the budget, ask your pool builder where you might be able to save elsewhere. You never want the swimming pool that’s “almost perfect.”
13. Build in energy efficiency. It’s easier than ever to save on a swimming pool’s energy costs. Enclosures, pool covers, and pump and lighting timers can all pay for themselves in energy savings in a short amount of time. In cool climates, it can sometimes pay to shut your swimming pool down for the winter, rather than heat it.
14. Be green. Some shy away from swimming pools for fear of their environmental impact, but the industry has worked hard in the last few years to make pool owner and steward of the environment not mutually exclusive terms. Today’s pool heaters can be heated almost entirely using solar energy. There are even swimming pools filtered using totally natural methods—an attached pond does all the work—and many chemical water treatments can now be replaced by less harsh natural alternatives. Swimming pool covers also reduce the amount of water lost (and then replaced) due to evaporation.
15. Don’t forget water features. Elegant waterfalls, spouting sconces, bubbling fountains—people love water features almost as much as the swimming pools themselves. If you’re interested in adding a few jets to your swimming pool, though, it’s best to do it during the initial construction. Retrofitting can be tricky (and sometimes impossible, depending on your swimming pool and what you want done) without a major remodel. It also costs more than twice as much, typically, to install water features after the fact.
16. Plant with purpose. This is especially important when thinking about your budget. You won’t want that swimming pool sitting in the yard by itself, so consider what you’d like to plant and where. Avoid planting messy trees (pecans, gums, sycamores) or trees with far-reaching, shallow root systems (some oaks, birches, cypress) near your swimming pool, for instance. Instead go with bushy perennials that don’t grow as tall and can be moved if necessary.
17. Keep safety in mind. Beyond any required fencing your local codes require, consider what other safety measures you’ll want to have in place. Swimming pools can be equipped with alarms to alert you when someone or something enters the water. Child-proof locks on gates, and security alarms on windows to the backyard are also considerations.
18. Think about finishing touches. Things like coping, decking, and borders can make a swimming pool stand out. The materials used for each vary—stone, concrete, ceramic and glass tile—and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Discuss with you designer which options are right for you.
19. Put fun on the list. As the swimming pool nears completion, it’s time to enjoy yourself by gathering all those extras that make pool ownership fun. Toys, games, floats, swimsuits, patio furniture, you name it. Accessorizing is half the fun.
20. Plan your first pool party. Don’t forget to throw a big bash to celebrate your new swimming pool. Get the burgers on the grill, invite the kiddies’ friends (and a few of your own) over, and break in your swimming pool in style.
Friday, January 22, 2010
When choose Hot Tub Spas For Your Home Spa Experience
How to buy a hot tub
Hot tub spas are a wonderful investment to your home spa experience. Whether you choose an indoor hot spa or one for your deck or backyard, you will love the benefits you get from your new purchase. First things first. You need to know how to choose a hot tub for your life style.
The best models to choose from are those that give a silent running experience. These spa tubs offer a quiet soak so to not interfere will your relaxing "me time". This is also important to consider for the people who are not soaking so they don't have to hear a loud motor running noise.
Smell is another factor. Try chlorine free water. A deep smell of chlorine is irritating to your senses, not to mention your skin. Hot tubs that offer silver ion ozonators are ideal for a clean healthy spa tub. Your goal is for crystal clear water that is hassle free and doesn't require to much effort. Make sure your jetted spa has a complete filtration system that operates continually and is totally balanced.
It is important to select a size for your lifestyle. Decide if your hot spa tub is going to be used for the personal use of one or two people. Or are you going to be entertaining. If you plan on entertaining or have a big family, choose spas that will cater to social soaks and choose a larger model. The more popular tubs are usually a four seater. Also, choose a hot spa tub with a cover that locks and a locking control panel. This will insure small children and pets stay safe and sound.
Jets are another important factor. Do you want your jets to give a more soothing feeling or do you want them to pummel? It is best to choose jets that are adjustable and hot tubs who's jets can be regulated for comfort.
Hot tubs are really easy to operate. Truly customizable, these jetted spa tubs come in an array of features, shapes, sizes and colors. Aromatherapy and light therapy hot spas are also a unique choice. It is best to keep it simple when choosing spas with a controller. I recommend selecting spas with a simple on/off control verses tubs spas that need to be programmed.
Its very easy to own a hot spa tub and requires minimal maintenance. Always make sure that the components you use to operate your hot spa is backed by a manufacturer's warranty. Following these steps can ensure that the purchase you make is an enjoyable one with no regrets.
Hot tub spas are a popular and beneficial addition to your home spa. Aside from the pampering bliss that you get with a soak, they embody an array of health benefits.
Good articles by Shalah Beckinghart
From EzineArticles.Com
Hot tub spas are a wonderful investment to your home spa experience. Whether you choose an indoor hot spa or one for your deck or backyard, you will love the benefits you get from your new purchase. First things first. You need to know how to choose a hot tub for your life style.
The best models to choose from are those that give a silent running experience. These spa tubs offer a quiet soak so to not interfere will your relaxing "me time". This is also important to consider for the people who are not soaking so they don't have to hear a loud motor running noise.
Smell is another factor. Try chlorine free water. A deep smell of chlorine is irritating to your senses, not to mention your skin. Hot tubs that offer silver ion ozonators are ideal for a clean healthy spa tub. Your goal is for crystal clear water that is hassle free and doesn't require to much effort. Make sure your jetted spa has a complete filtration system that operates continually and is totally balanced.
It is important to select a size for your lifestyle. Decide if your hot spa tub is going to be used for the personal use of one or two people. Or are you going to be entertaining. If you plan on entertaining or have a big family, choose spas that will cater to social soaks and choose a larger model. The more popular tubs are usually a four seater. Also, choose a hot spa tub with a cover that locks and a locking control panel. This will insure small children and pets stay safe and sound.
Jets are another important factor. Do you want your jets to give a more soothing feeling or do you want them to pummel? It is best to choose jets that are adjustable and hot tubs who's jets can be regulated for comfort.
Hot tubs are really easy to operate. Truly customizable, these jetted spa tubs come in an array of features, shapes, sizes and colors. Aromatherapy and light therapy hot spas are also a unique choice. It is best to keep it simple when choosing spas with a controller. I recommend selecting spas with a simple on/off control verses tubs spas that need to be programmed.
Its very easy to own a hot spa tub and requires minimal maintenance. Always make sure that the components you use to operate your hot spa is backed by a manufacturer's warranty. Following these steps can ensure that the purchase you make is an enjoyable one with no regrets.
Hot tub spas are a popular and beneficial addition to your home spa. Aside from the pampering bliss that you get with a soak, they embody an array of health benefits.
Good articles by Shalah Beckinghart
From EzineArticles.Com
Thursday, January 21, 2010
6 Step to Winterize a Hot Tub
To many hot tub users, using their tub in the middle of the frigid winter season is exciting and soothing. It totally gives a different kind of spa experience. However, some people do not like to use their tub spa during winter. If you are one of them, you may need to "winterize" your tub. This will prevent mold and mildew, not to mention all sorts of germs and bacteria that may breed in it when you are not using it. Here is a step by step procedure on how to do this:
Step 1: Turn the tub heater off. Make sure you turn everything off including the power switch. Also pull the circuit breaker level in your electrical panel so there is no electricity supply to your tub.
Step 2: Remove the filter cartridge. Underneath the tub, you can find there the filter hose. Twist it off and remove the cartridge. Clean it and remove any debris that may have accumulated, dry it and then store it.
Step 3: Now you can drain the tub. If the tub has been integrated with drain pipes, open those drain pipes. You can also use a garden hose and use it to siphone water out. This process can be easier if you connect one end of the house to a tap and then connect the other end to the water in your tub. Turn the water one until it fills out the hose and then immediately turn it off. Tilt the hose so it can drain off water. The rest of the water from the tub will follow suit.
Step 4: If there are any more water left, you can wipe it out using spa towels. Make sure the tub is completely dry.
Step 5: If your tub has bleed valves, remove it first. This might freeze if left unattended in the middle of winter. Also make sure that there are no dripping parts in drainage system of your tub.
Step 6: If there is still water in the jets, you can use plunger to remove them. However, it is not necessary to remove this little bit of water as it will not damage the tub. Just keep it relatively dry and then put the tub cover back on.
Now that you know how to winterize your hot tub, you can start on this chore immediately. Remember which switches to turn and which knows to connect once you use the tub again.
Good article by Alan Cassidy
From EzineArticles.Com
Step 1: Turn the tub heater off. Make sure you turn everything off including the power switch. Also pull the circuit breaker level in your electrical panel so there is no electricity supply to your tub.
Step 2: Remove the filter cartridge. Underneath the tub, you can find there the filter hose. Twist it off and remove the cartridge. Clean it and remove any debris that may have accumulated, dry it and then store it.
Step 3: Now you can drain the tub. If the tub has been integrated with drain pipes, open those drain pipes. You can also use a garden hose and use it to siphone water out. This process can be easier if you connect one end of the house to a tap and then connect the other end to the water in your tub. Turn the water one until it fills out the hose and then immediately turn it off. Tilt the hose so it can drain off water. The rest of the water from the tub will follow suit.
Step 4: If there are any more water left, you can wipe it out using spa towels. Make sure the tub is completely dry.
Step 5: If your tub has bleed valves, remove it first. This might freeze if left unattended in the middle of winter. Also make sure that there are no dripping parts in drainage system of your tub.
Step 6: If there is still water in the jets, you can use plunger to remove them. However, it is not necessary to remove this little bit of water as it will not damage the tub. Just keep it relatively dry and then put the tub cover back on.
Now that you know how to winterize your hot tub, you can start on this chore immediately. Remember which switches to turn and which knows to connect once you use the tub again.
Good article by Alan Cassidy
From EzineArticles.Com
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