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What To Do If You Put Too Many Chemicals In Your Pool?

When it comes to maintaining a swimming pool, achieving a safe and enjoyable swimming environment entails carefully balancing the water chemistry. However, it's not uncommon for pool owners to inadvertently add excessive chemicals in their pursuit of crystal clear water. If this situation arises, it becomes crucial to take the necessary steps to correct the chemical imbalance promptly.

too-many-chemicals-in-your-pool-banner

The primary chemicals commonly used in pool maintenance include chlorine, algaecides, pH balancers, and more. Should you happen to add an excessive amount of these chemicals, it can lead to various issues. These may include skin, eye, and respiratory irritations for swimmers, potential damage to the pool equipment, and, of course, less inviting swimming conditions overall. Ensuring the proper chemical balance in your pool is key to creating a safe and enjoyable swimming environment for everyone. So, it's important to be cautious and vigilant when adding chemicals to your pool, maintaining a delicate equilibrium that enhances the overall pool experience.

Here's What You Can Do:

Step One: Identify the Problem

To begin with, it is crucial to identify the specific chemical that is in excess within your pool. For example, if you notice a strong and pungent odour, it is likely an indication of elevated chlorine levels. On the other hand, if your pool water appears cloudy and murky, it could be a result of excessive algaecides. Utilising a comprehensive pool testing kit will greatly assist you in precisely pinpointing and addressing the underlying issue. By taking these necessary steps, you can effectively maintain the optimal balance and clarity of your pool water.

Step Two: Stop Swimming

It is advisable to avoid swimming until the problem is resolved. Excessive chemical levels in the water can potentially lead to various health issues, including skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory problems. Taking precautionary measures and refraining from swimming will help ensure the well-being and safety of individuals.

too-many-chemicals-in-your-pool-blogimage1

Step Three: Dilute the Chemical Levels

If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve accidentally used too much of a chemical in your pool, don’t worry! The best course of action to resolve this issue is by diluting the chemical. You can achieve this by partially draining the pool and gradually refilling it with fresh water. It’s important to remember to do this gradually, as abrupt changes can potentially disrupt the delicate chemical balance even further. By taking these steps, you’ll effectively address the problem and restore the chemical balance of your pool.

Step Four: Adjust Chemical Levels

Once you have diluted the sample, use your testing kit to verify the chemical levels. If the levels are still too high and out of balance, it is recommended to consider using a chemical reducer. These effective products, readily available at reputable pool supply stores, can assist in restoring your pool’s chemistry back to a safe and optimal range, ensuring a healthy swimming environment for you and your loved ones.

Step Five: Regular Monitoring

After properly adjusting the levels of your pool, it is crucial to maintain the chemistry on a regular basis. This practice will enable you to uphold the perfect balance and prevent any potential issues caused by over-chemicalisation in the future.

While the idea of adding too many chemicals to your pool may seem intimidating, rest assured that with the right information and a little patience, this is a problem that can be effectively resolved. Always bear in mind that when it comes to pool chemicals, less is often more. It is important to add chemicals gradually, testing the water after each addition to ensure optimal results.

too-many-chemicals-in-your-pool-blogimage2

What If I Have A Fibreglass Pool?

Fibreglass pools, like any other type, also require careful chemical maintenance. However, they come with their particularities.

To start with, get a comprehensive pool testing kit suitable for fibreglass pools. Use this to measure the levels of the key chemicals – chlorine, pH balancers, algaecides etc. in your pool. These measurements will help you identify any excesses.

If you’ve added too many chemicals, refrain from swimming until you’ve corrected the imbalance. The next step would also involve dilution – partially drain the pool and refill it with fresh water, doing so slowly to prevent further disruption of the chemical balance.

If the chemical levels remain high after dilution, consider using a chemical reducer designed specifically for fibreglass pools. These are available at most pool supply stores.

Remember, the nature of fibreglass may cause it to react differently to chemicals compared to other pool types. So, always ensure to use products that are safe for fibreglass pools. Regular monitoring and adjustment of the chemical levels is crucial to maintaining a safe and enjoyable swimming environment.

Finally, always proceed with care when adding chemicals to your fibreglass pool. Add gradually, monitor the change, and remember that when it comes to pool chemicals, less is often more.

In the event that you encounter severe over-chemicalisation and your DIY methods do not seem to be effective, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Pool maintenance professionals possess the expertise, knowledge, and specialised tools necessary to safely and efficiently restore your pool to its ideal condition. By entrusting the task to experts, you can have peace of mind knowing that the safety and comfort of all pool users are guaranteed.

To Sum Up

Maintaining a well-balanced pool is an ongoing process that requires regular attention, adjustment, and continuous monitoring. By comprehending the role of each chemical and understanding the impact of their levels in your pool, you can ensure a safe, clean, and inviting swimming experience for everyone. Remember, a little extra care and attention can go a long way in maintaining the beauty, functionality, and longevity of your pool.

If you are currently in search of a high-quality, durable fibreglass pool, look no further than Newcastle Swimming Pools. Our company, based in Heatherbrae, Newcastle, specialises in providing exceptional fibreglass pools that are designed to withstand the test of time. We would love to assist you and your family in finding the perfect fibreglass pool that suits your backyard and meets your specific requirements.

What To Do If You Put Too Many Chemicals In Your Pool?

When it comes to maintaining a swimming pool, achieving a safe and enjoyable swimming environment entails carefully balancing the water chemistry. However, it's not uncommon for pool owners to inadvertently add excessive chemicals in their pursuit of crystal clear water. If this situation arises, it becomes crucial to take the necessary steps to correct the chemical imbalance promptly.

too-many-chemicals-in-your-pool-banner-m

The primary chemicals commonly used in pool maintenance include chlorine, algaecides, pH balancers, and more. Should you happen to add an excessive amount of these chemicals, it can lead to various issues. These may include skin, eye, and respiratory irritations for swimmers, potential damage to the pool equipment, and, of course, less inviting swimming conditions overall. Ensuring the proper chemical balance in your pool is key to creating a safe and enjoyable swimming environment for everyone. So, it's important to be cautious and vigilant when adding chemicals to your pool, maintaining a delicate equilibrium that enhances the overall pool experience.

Here's What You Can Do:

Step One: Identify the Problem

To begin with, it is crucial to identify the specific chemical that is in excess within your pool. For example, if you notice a strong and pungent odour, it is likely an indication of elevated chlorine levels. On the other hand, if your pool water appears cloudy and murky, it could be a result of excessive algaecides. Utilising a comprehensive pool testing kit will greatly assist you in precisely pinpointing and addressing the underlying issue. By taking these necessary steps, you can effectively maintain the optimal balance and clarity of your pool water.

Step Two: Stop Swimming

It is advisable to avoid swimming until the problem is resolved. Excessive chemical levels in the water can potentially lead to various health issues, including skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory problems. Taking precautionary measures and refraining from swimming will help ensure the well-being and safety of individuals.

too-many-chemicals-in-your-pool-blogimage1-m

Step Three: Dilute the Chemical Levels

If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve accidentally used too much of a chemical in your pool, don’t worry! The best course of action to resolve this issue is by diluting the chemical. You can achieve this by partially draining the pool and gradually refilling it with fresh water. It’s important to remember to do this gradually, as abrupt changes can potentially disrupt the delicate chemical balance even further. By taking these steps, you’ll effectively address the problem and restore the chemical balance of your pool.

Step Four: Adjust Chemical Levels

Once you have diluted the sample, use your testing kit to verify the chemical levels. If the levels are still too high and out of balance, it is recommended to consider using a chemical reducer. These effective products, readily available at reputable pool supply stores, can assist in restoring your pool’s chemistry back to a safe and optimal range, ensuring a healthy swimming environment for you and your loved ones.

Step Five: Regular Monitoring

After properly adjusting the levels of your pool, it is crucial to maintain the chemistry on a regular basis. This practice will enable you to uphold the perfect balance and prevent any potential issues caused by over-chemicalisation in the future.

While the idea of adding too many chemicals to your pool may seem intimidating, rest assured that with the right information and a little patience, this is a problem that can be effectively resolved. Always bear in mind that when it comes to pool chemicals, less is often more. It is important to add chemicals gradually, testing the water after each addition to ensure optimal results.

too-many-chemicals-in-your-pool-blogimage2-m

What If I Have A Fibreglass Pool?

Fibreglass pools, like any other type, also require careful chemical maintenance. However, they come with their particularities.

To start with, get a comprehensive pool testing kit suitable for fibreglass pools. Use this to measure the levels of the key chemicals – chlorine, pH balancers, algaecides etc. in your pool. These measurements will help you identify any excesses.

If you’ve added too many chemicals, refrain from swimming until you’ve corrected the imbalance. The next step would also involve dilution – partially drain the pool and refill it with fresh water, doing so slowly to prevent further disruption of the chemical balance.

If the chemical levels remain high after dilution, consider using a chemical reducer designed specifically for fibreglass pools. These are available at most pool supply stores.

Remember, the nature of fibreglass may cause it to react differently to chemicals compared to other pool types. So, always ensure to use products that are safe for fibreglass pools. Regular monitoring and adjustment of the chemical levels is crucial to maintaining a safe and enjoyable swimming environment.

Finally, always proceed with care when adding chemicals to your fibreglass pool. Add gradually, monitor the change, and remember that when it comes to pool chemicals, less is often more.

In the event that you encounter severe over-chemicalisation and your DIY methods do not seem to be effective, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Pool maintenance professionals possess the expertise, knowledge, and specialised tools necessary to safely and efficiently restore your pool to its ideal condition. By entrusting the task to experts, you can have peace of mind knowing that the safety and comfort of all pool users are guaranteed.

To Sum Up

Maintaining a well-balanced pool is an ongoing process that requires regular attention, adjustment, and continuous monitoring. By comprehending the role of each chemical and understanding the impact of their levels in your pool, you can ensure a safe, clean, and inviting swimming experience for everyone. Remember, a little extra care and attention can go a long way in maintaining the beauty, functionality, and longevity of your pool.

If you are currently in search of a high-quality, durable fibreglass pool, look no further than Newcastle Swimming Pools. Our company, based in Heatherbrae, Newcastle, specialises in providing exceptional fibreglass pools that are designed to withstand the test of time. We would love to assist you and your family in finding the perfect fibreglass pool that suits your backyard and meets your specific requirements.

A Glossary Of Pool Terms

Swimming pools can sometimes feel like a vast and intricate world, particularly when you encounter a flood of unfamiliar terms and phrases. Whether it's terms like "backstroke" or "butterfly stroke," or phrases like "freestyle technique" and "diving board etiquette," the pool world can be quite overwhelming. However, fear not! This glossary is here to "clear the waters" and provide you with a valuable resource to navigate through the intricacies of the pool world with confidence and ease. With simplified explanations and insights, you'll soon become well-versed in the language of swimming pools and be able to dive into this aquatic realm with newfound expertise.

a-glossary-of-pool-terms-banner

What Are The Different Terms?

Algae

Algae are tiny, single-celled organisms that have the potential to invade and take over your pool, resulting in an unpleasant green, yellow, or even black discolouration. These pesky organisms can find their way into your pool through various means, such as being carried by the wind, transported by rainwater, or even introduced through contaminated swimwear. It’s important to stay vigilant and take necessary measures to prevent and control algae growth to ensure a clean and inviting pool environment.

Backwash

In pool maintenance, backwash refers to reversing the flow of water through your filter to clean it out. It’s an essential part of pool upkeep.

Chlorine

Chlorine, a highly effective chemical, is commonly employed to sanitise pool water, effectively eliminating harmful bacteria and stubborn algae. This versatile chemical is available in various forms, including granules, tablets, liquid, and gas, providing pool owners with flexible options to maintain a clean and safe swimming environment.

D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) Filter

A D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) filter is a highly effective filtration system that utilises diatomaceous earth, a naturally occurring substance, to capture and filter debris, as well as microscopic particles and microbes, from the pool water. This innovative method ensures a cleaner and healthier pool environment for all to enjoy.

Filter Cycle

This is the process and time it takes for the pool water to circulate through the filtration system and then back into the pool.

Hot Tub

Also known as a spa, a hot tub is a smaller pool specifically designed for heating water to provide a serene and therapeutic experience. With strategically placed jets, it creates a soothing environment that helps to relax muscles, relieve stress, and promote overall well-being. Whether it’s for unwinding after a long day or enjoying a social gathering with friends, a hot tub offers a perfect retreat to rejuvenate both body and mind.

a-glossary-of-pool-terms-blogimage1

Inlet

The inlet, also known as the return inlet, is an integral part of a swimming pool system. It is responsible for allowing water to flow back into the pool after it has been filtered and treated. By directing the water in a controlled manner, the inlet ensures proper circulation and distribution of the treated water throughout the pool, maintaining its cleanliness and hygiene.

Main Drain

Located at the deepest part of the pool, the main drain aids in water circulation, pulling water to the pump for filtration.

Niche

In pool design, a niche refers to a specifically designed recess or hollow space within the pool structure. These niches are strategically placed and often utilised for the purpose of housing and positioning pool lights, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal to the pool area.

Overflow System

An overflow system, a crucial component of pool design, prevents the pool from overflowing during heavy rainfall or excessive water usage by efficiently draining the excess water. By diverting the surplus water away from the pool, this system ensures the optimal water level is maintained, preserving the pool’s structural integrity and preventing potential damage.

pH Level

This refers to the measure of acidity or alkalinity of water, known as the pH level. Maintaining a proper balance of pH is not only essential but crucial for the overall health and well-being of your pool. By ensuring the right pH, you can prevent issues such as corrosion, scaling, and the growth of harmful bacteria, ultimately prolonging the lifespan of your pool and providing a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all.

Return Line

The pipe, which carries the meticulously filtered and expertly treated water from the pump, seamlessly flows back into the crystal-clear pool, ensuring a refreshing and rejuvenating swimming experience for all.

Skimmer

A practical device, typically mounted along the side of the pool, designed to efficiently and effortlessly remove debris from the surface of the water. It effectively captures leaves, twigs, and other unwanted particles, ensuring a clean and inviting pool environment for all to enjoy.

a-glossary-of-pool-terms-blogimage2

Test Strips

These are used to test the water’s pH level, chlorine, and other chemical levels in your pool.

UV Sanitation

A method of pool sanitation using ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.

Vacuum

A pool vacuum, also known as a pool cleaner, is a mechanical device specifically designed to effectively and efficiently clean the bottom and sides of a pool. It operates by utilising suction or pressure to remove debris, such as leaves, dirt, and other particles that have settled out of the water. By thoroughly cleaning the pool, it helps to maintain its cleanliness and hygiene, ensuring a pleasant swimming experience for all.

Waterline Tile

These are the tiles that line the top edge of the pool where the water reaches when the pool is filled to capacity. They are designed to withstand constant contact with water and pool chemicals.

Yard Drain

A yard drain is a common feature in pool landscapes, used to effectively manage runoff and prevent water logging in the area surrounding the pool.

Zinc Anode

A zinc anode is a device used in pools to prevent the corrosion of metal components. It works by sacrificing itself to corrosion, thereby protecting other metal parts of the pool system.

Conclusion

Having a solid grasp of these key terms will not only demystify the intricate processes, advanced features, and effective maintenance techniques behind swimming pools, but also enhance your overall pool ownership experience. At Newcastle Swimming Pools, our dedicated team is more than delighted to assist you with comprehensive information regarding the smooth installation of a top-quality fibreglass pool and the multitude of ways in which it can transform your outdoor space. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today and let us guide you towards creating your dream pool!

nsp-pool-range-cta

A Glossary Of Pool Terms

Swimming pools can sometimes feel like a vast and intricate world, particularly when you encounter a flood of unfamiliar terms and phrases. Whether it's terms like "backstroke" or "butterfly stroke," or phrases like "freestyle technique" and "diving board etiquette," the pool world can be quite overwhelming. However, fear not! This glossary is here to "clear the waters" and provide you with a valuable resource to navigate through the intricacies of the pool world with confidence and ease. With simplified explanations and insights, you'll soon become well-versed in the language of swimming pools and be able to dive into this aquatic realm with newfound expertise.

a-glossary-of-pool-terms-banner-m

What Are The Different Terms?

Algae

Algae are tiny, single-celled organisms that have the potential to invade and take over your pool, resulting in an unpleasant green, yellow, or even black discolouration. These pesky organisms can find their way into your pool through various means, such as being carried by the wind, transported by rainwater, or even introduced through contaminated swimwear. It’s important to stay vigilant and take necessary measures to prevent and control algae growth to ensure a clean and inviting pool environment.

Backwash

In pool maintenance, backwash refers to reversing the flow of water through your filter to clean it out. It’s an essential part of pool upkeep.

Chlorine

Chlorine, a highly effective chemical, is commonly employed to sanitise pool water, effectively eliminating harmful bacteria and stubborn algae. This versatile chemical is available in various forms, including granules, tablets, liquid, and gas, providing pool owners with flexible options to maintain a clean and safe swimming environment.

D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) Filter

A D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) filter is a highly effective filtration system that utilises diatomaceous earth, a naturally occurring substance, to capture and filter debris, as well as microscopic particles and microbes, from the pool water. This innovative method ensures a cleaner and healthier pool environment for all to enjoy.

Filter Cycle

This is the process and time it takes for the pool water to circulate through the filtration system and then back into the pool.

Hot Tub

Also known as a spa, a hot tub is a smaller pool specifically designed for heating water to provide a serene and therapeutic experience. With strategically placed jets, it creates a soothing environment that helps to relax muscles, relieve stress, and promote overall well-being. Whether it’s for unwinding after a long day or enjoying a social gathering with friends, a hot tub offers a perfect retreat to rejuvenate both body and mind.

a-glossary-of-pool-terms-blogimage1-m

Inlet

The inlet, also known as the return inlet, is an integral part of a swimming pool system. It is responsible for allowing water to flow back into the pool after it has been filtered and treated. By directing the water in a controlled manner, the inlet ensures proper circulation and distribution of the treated water throughout the pool, maintaining its cleanliness and hygiene.

Main Drain

Located at the deepest part of the pool, the main drain aids in water circulation, pulling water to the pump for filtration.

Niche

In pool design, a niche refers to a specifically designed recess or hollow space within the pool structure. These niches are strategically placed and often utilised for the purpose of housing and positioning pool lights, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal to the pool area.

Overflow System

An overflow system, a crucial component of pool design, prevents the pool from overflowing during heavy rainfall or excessive water usage by efficiently draining the excess water. By diverting the surplus water away from the pool, this system ensures the optimal water level is maintained, preserving the pool’s structural integrity and preventing potential damage.

pH Level

This refers to the measure of acidity or alkalinity of water, known as the pH level. Maintaining a proper balance of pH is not only essential but crucial for the overall health and well-being of your pool. By ensuring the right pH, you can prevent issues such as corrosion, scaling, and the growth of harmful bacteria, ultimately prolonging the lifespan of your pool and providing a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all.

Return Line

The pipe, which carries the meticulously filtered and expertly treated water from the pump, seamlessly flows back into the crystal-clear pool, ensuring a refreshing and rejuvenating swimming experience for all.

Skimmer

A practical device, typically mounted along the side of the pool, designed to efficiently and effortlessly remove debris from the surface of the water. It effectively captures leaves, twigs, and other unwanted particles, ensuring a clean and inviting pool environment for all to enjoy.

a-glossary-of-pool-terms-blogimage2-m

Test Strips

These are used to test the water’s pH level, chlorine, and other chemical levels in your pool.

UV Sanitation

A method of pool sanitation using ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.

Vacuum

A pool vacuum, also known as a pool cleaner, is a mechanical device specifically designed to effectively and efficiently clean the bottom and sides of a pool. It operates by utilising suction or pressure to remove debris, such as leaves, dirt, and other particles that have settled out of the water. By thoroughly cleaning the pool, it helps to maintain its cleanliness and hygiene, ensuring a pleasant swimming experience for all.

Waterline Tile

These are the tiles that line the top edge of the pool where the water reaches when the pool is filled to capacity. They are designed to withstand constant contact with water and pool chemicals.

Yard Drain

A yard drain is a common feature in pool landscapes, used to effectively manage runoff and prevent water logging in the area surrounding the pool.

Zinc Anode

A zinc anode is a device used in pools to prevent the corrosion of metal components. It works by sacrificing itself to corrosion, thereby protecting other metal parts of the pool system.

Conclusion

Having a solid grasp of these key terms will not only demystify the intricate processes, advanced features, and effective maintenance techniques behind swimming pools, but also enhance your overall pool ownership experience. At Newcastle Swimming Pools, our dedicated team is more than delighted to assist you with comprehensive information regarding the smooth installation of a top-quality fibreglass pool and the multitude of ways in which it can transform your outdoor space. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today and let us guide you towards creating your dream pool!

nsp-pool-range-cta-m

Everything You Need To Know About Pool Filters

When it comes to fibreglass pool maintenance, pool filters play a vital role in ensuring pristine water quality. These indispensable components diligently work to keep the water clean, crystal clear, and optimally safe for swimming. By efficiently removing impurities like dust, dirt, and debris, pool filters contribute to a refreshing and enjoyable swimming experience for all.

everything-you-need-to-know-about-pool-filters-banner

Types of Pool Filters

There are three main types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE). Each type operates in a distinct and unique way, showcasing its own set of characteristics and functionalities that set it apart from others.

Sand Filters

These filters use a bed of sand to effectively filter dirt and particles from water. The water is pushed through a sand-filled filter, where the sand acts as a medium to capture and remove impurities. The sand bed provides a large surface area for filtration, ensuring thorough cleaning of the water. With its abrasive nature, the sand also aids in the removal of organic matter and debris, resulting in crystal clear water that is safe for swimming and other activities.

Cartridge Filters

A cartridge filter operates by allowing water to flow through a filter material, typically made of pleated fabric or paper, that captures particles and contaminants. The cartridge can be easily removed and cleaned, making it a convenient and popular choice for pool owners. The filter material in the cartridge provides a fine mesh that effectively traps debris, ensuring clean and clear water. The pleated design increases the surface area of the filter, allowing for a higher capacity and longer filter life. Additionally, the pleats provide a more efficient filtration process, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance.

everything-you-need-to-know-about-pool-filters-blogimage1

Diatomaceous Earth Filters

Considered to be the most effective type of filter, diatomaceous earth filters utilise a powdered form of fossilised diatoms to create a fine mesh filter. These microscopic diatoms have intricate skeletal structures that form a porous and highly efficient filtration system. The diatomaceous earth powder coats a mesh or grid within the filter, allowing it to capture even the smallest particles and impurities in the water. This advanced filtration technology ensures exceptional water clarity and purity. The unique properties of diatomaceous earth also contribute to its ability to remove oils, lotions, and other contaminants, making it an ideal choice for maintaining pristine pool water.

Choosing The Right Pool Filter

When it comes to choosing the right pool filter, there are different factors to consider. First, you need to take into account the size of the pool. A larger pool will require a filter that can handle a higher volume of water. Secondly, consider the amount of use the pool gets. If the pool is frequently used by many people, you will want a filter that is designed to handle heavy usage. Lastly, the local climate plays a role in the decision-making process. If the pool is located in a dusty environment, a sand or DE filter would be beneficial as they are capable of effectively capturing and removing a large volume of dirt. So, take the time to carefully assess these factors before making a decision on which pool filter to choose. It will ensure that you have a clean and enjoyable swimming experience all season long.

Maintenance of Pool Filters

Regular maintenance of your pool filter is of utmost importance to guarantee optimal efficiency and long-lasting performance. This involves frequent cleaning to remove debris and build-up, timely replacement of worn-out parts to prevent malfunctioning, and, for sand and DE filters, periodic replacement of the filtering medium to maintain the highest level of filtration. By diligently following these maintenance practices, you can ensure that your pool filter operates at its best, providing you with crystal-clear water for countless enjoyable swims.

everything-you-need-to-know-about-pool-filters-blogimage2

How To Maintain Your Pool Filter?

Maintaining your pool filter is a straightforward task once you understand the process. Here are some steps to help you:

Regular Cleaning: Depending on the type of filter you have, you should clean it every 1-3 months. For cartridge filters, remove the cartridge and rinse it with a garden hose to remove debris. For sand and DE filters, backwashing is an effective cleaning method. Simply reverse the flow of water through the filter to wash out the dirt.

Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your filter for any signs of wear and tear. Look out for damage in the cartridges or sand/DE medium. If you notice any problems, it’s best to replace these parts promptly to avoid further damage or inefficient operation.

Change the Filtering Medium: For sand and DE filters, it’s important to replace the sand or DE powder every 5-7 years. This ensures that the filtering medium remains effective at trapping debris.

Monitor Pressure Gauges: Your filter’s pressure gauge is a useful tool in determining its cleanliness. A significant increase in pressure typically indicates a clogged filter that needs cleaning or replacing.

By incorporating these practices into your pool maintenance routine, you’ll be able to extend the lifespan of your filter, thus ensuring a clean and healthy swimming environment in your fibreglass pool.

Conclusion

Pool filters play a crucial role in maintaining the hygiene and clarity of your fibreglass pool. By effectively removing impurities and debris, they ensure that your pool water remains clean and inviting. Understanding the different types of filters, such as sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth filters, along with their specific maintenance requirements, allows you to make an informed decision when it comes to pool care. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your pool filter not only prolong its lifespan but also ensure optimal filtration performance. Remember, a clean and well-maintained filter means a clean pool, contributing to a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all. So, invest your time and effort in proper filter care to reap the rewards of clear water and a sparkling pool.

Looking to upgrade your backyard space? At Newcastle Swimming Pools, we provide you with quality made fibreglass pools in a range of different sizes and designs. Contact Newcastle Swimming Pools today for a free quote!

nsp-pool-maintenance-guide-cta

Everything You Need To Know About Pool Filters

When it comes to fibreglass pool maintenance, pool filters play a vital role in ensuring pristine water quality. These indispensable components diligently work to keep the water clean, crystal clear, and optimally safe for swimming. By efficiently removing impurities like dust, dirt, and debris, pool filters contribute to a refreshing and enjoyable swimming experience for all.

everything-you-need-to-know-about-pool-filters-banner-m

Types of Pool Filters

There are three main types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE). Each type operates in a distinct and unique way, showcasing its own set of characteristics and functionalities that set it apart from others.

Sand Filters

These filters use a bed of sand to effectively filter dirt and particles from water. The water is pushed through a sand-filled filter, where the sand acts as a medium to capture and remove impurities. The sand bed provides a large surface area for filtration, ensuring thorough cleaning of the water. With its abrasive nature, the sand also aids in the removal of organic matter and debris, resulting in crystal clear water that is safe for swimming and other activities.

Cartridge Filters

A cartridge filter operates by allowing water to flow through a filter material, typically made of pleated fabric or paper, that captures particles and contaminants. The cartridge can be easily removed and cleaned, making it a convenient and popular choice for pool owners. The filter material in the cartridge provides a fine mesh that effectively traps debris, ensuring clean and clear water. The pleated design increases the surface area of the filter, allowing for a higher capacity and longer filter life. Additionally, the pleats provide a more efficient filtration process, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance.

everything-you-need-to-know-about-pool-filters-blogimage1-m

Diatomaceous Earth Filters

Considered to be the most effective type of filter, diatomaceous earth filters utilise a powdered form of fossilised diatoms to create a fine mesh filter. These microscopic diatoms have intricate skeletal structures that form a porous and highly efficient filtration system. The diatomaceous earth powder coats a mesh or grid within the filter, allowing it to capture even the smallest particles and impurities in the water. This advanced filtration technology ensures exceptional water clarity and purity. The unique properties of diatomaceous earth also contribute to its ability to remove oils, lotions, and other contaminants, making it an ideal choice for maintaining pristine pool water.

Choosing The Right Pool Filter

When it comes to choosing the right pool filter, there are different factors to consider. First, you need to take into account the size of the pool. A larger pool will require a filter that can handle a higher volume of water. Secondly, consider the amount of use the pool gets. If the pool is frequently used by many people, you will want a filter that is designed to handle heavy usage. Lastly, the local climate plays a role in the decision-making process. If the pool is located in a dusty environment, a sand or DE filter would be beneficial as they are capable of effectively capturing and removing a large volume of dirt. So, take the time to carefully assess these factors before making a decision on which pool filter to choose. It will ensure that you have a clean and enjoyable swimming experience all season long.

Maintenance of Pool Filters

Regular maintenance of your pool filter is of utmost importance to guarantee optimal efficiency and long-lasting performance. This involves frequent cleaning to remove debris and build-up, timely replacement of worn-out parts to prevent malfunctioning, and, for sand and DE filters, periodic replacement of the filtering medium to maintain the highest level of filtration. By diligently following these maintenance practices, you can ensure that your pool filter operates at its best, providing you with crystal-clear water for countless enjoyable swims.

everything-you-need-to-know-about-pool-filters-blogimage2-m

How To Maintain Your Pool Filter?

Maintaining your pool filter is a straightforward task once you understand the process. Here are some steps to help you:

Regular Cleaning: Depending on the type of filter you have, you should clean it every 1-3 months. For cartridge filters, remove the cartridge and rinse it with a garden hose to remove debris. For sand and DE filters, backwashing is an effective cleaning method. Simply reverse the flow of water through the filter to wash out the dirt.

Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your filter for any signs of wear and tear. Look out for damage in the cartridges or sand/DE medium. If you notice any problems, it’s best to replace these parts promptly to avoid further damage or inefficient operation.

Change the Filtering Medium: For sand and DE filters, it’s important to replace the sand or DE powder every 5-7 years. This ensures that the filtering medium remains effective at trapping debris.

Monitor Pressure Gauges: Your filter’s pressure gauge is a useful tool in determining its cleanliness. A significant increase in pressure typically indicates a clogged filter that needs cleaning or replacing.

By incorporating these practices into your pool maintenance routine, you’ll be able to extend the lifespan of your filter, thus ensuring a clean and healthy swimming environment in your fibreglass pool.

Conclusion

Pool filters play a crucial role in maintaining the hygiene and clarity of your fibreglass pool. By effectively removing impurities and debris, they ensure that your pool water remains clean and inviting. Understanding the different types of filters, such as sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth filters, along with their specific maintenance requirements, allows you to make an informed decision when it comes to pool care. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your pool filter not only prolong its lifespan but also ensure optimal filtration performance. Remember, a clean and well-maintained filter means a clean pool, contributing to a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all. So, invest your time and effort in proper filter care to reap the rewards of clear water and a sparkling pool.

Looking to upgrade your backyard space? At Newcastle Swimming Pools, we provide you with quality made fibreglass pools in a range of different sizes and designs. Contact Newcastle Swimming Pools today for a free quote!

nsp-pool-maintenance-guide-cta-m

Can Fibreglass Pools Be Saltwater?

Swimming pools may either use a salt water system or a chlorine system, and it’s important for you to understand the benefits and challenges of both chlorine and salt water, so that you can keep your pool in top condition. The older tradition, and what many people are familiar with, is chlorine pools. Salt water pools have now emerged as a popular choice for families, as they can be of benefit for you and your swimming pool. Let us help you understand if a salt water pool is a good option for your fibreglass pool.

can-fibreglass-pools-be-saltwater-banner

How Does Salt Water Sanitise The Pool?

Using a salt chlorine generator, salt is added to the water in the pool and the generator of your pool will directly convert it into chlorine to sanitise the pool. The salt added is at a level high enough to allow the functioning of the generator. A salt chlorinator’s range is usually between 3,000 and 4,000 parts per million. However you don’t have to worry about tasting a lot of salt even if the water from your swimming pool enters your mouth. Swimming pools have salinity levels that are 1/10th the salinity level of the ocean. So it’s not going to be as salty as the sea, in fact, you would only taste as much salt as you would in a teardrop. 

Salt Water Is The Preferred Choice For Fibreglass Pools:

Salt water can help keep your fibreglass pool a lot cleaner, and you may even have a silky feel when you’re in the pool. It is estimated that about 80% of families in Australia utilise a salt water system in their swimming pool. More and more homes are shifting to make use of salt water systems, as they also don’t have to experience the smell or the eye-burning that is so common when a chlorine pool is used. A lot of families actually report that they prefer salt water in their fibreglass pools because they feel cleaner and don’t have the same chlorine smell and taste that other chlorine pools do. A challenge to keep in mind is to look at the area around your fibreglass pool. There may be concrete, equipment, or a timber deck around your pool. These will be subjected to splashing from the pool. Whilst the surfaces will dry over time, the concentration of the salt is high and can corrode objects which have aluminium or metal fittings. You can use fresh water to wash down these surfaces after you use the pool, to prevent this from occurring. Also ensure that the handrails/ guards that you install are compatible with the salt water system you’re using.

Benefits Of Salt Water:

  • Salt water systems can add to the many benefits of the popular fibreglass pools, and make it easier for you and your family to head out for a swim in your backyard. 
  • They’re safer, because the chlorine levels released by the salt chlorine generators are much lower than the concentration in chlorine pools. This means they are safer to use without worrying about the hazards from exposure and contact to such harsh chemicals. Unlike in chlorine, you can keep your eyes open underwater without having to worry about damage or have any pain caused to your eyes. 
  • An unhygienic pool is a major health concern, but with the regular disinfection which occurs with the salt chlorine generators, you won’t have to worry about the safety of your family and friends when they go for a swim. Basically, the process of electrolysis in the saltwater system releases hypochlorous acid, and when salt dissolves in water it helps maintain a clean pool. 
  • Salt water also has the ability to exfoliate, rejuvenate, and even detoxify and cleanse the skin. It increases the ability of the skin to lock in moisture, helping to nourish your skin and giving it a smooth feel, plus you won’t be left smelling like chlorine! 
  • With salt water in your fibreglass pool, you will not have to be concerned about coming out of the pool smelling strongly like chlorine. Salt water pools have very low concentrations of chlorine which aren’t harsh on the body. 
  • People with allergies or sensitive skin can use the pool without the risk of getting itchy or dry skin. You may actually find a lot of relief through the use of salt water in fibreglass pools. 

Did you know that because fibreglass pools have a smooth, non-porous gel-coat, they require less maintenance and cleaning? Fibreglass also doesn’t attract bacteria and algae in the same way that other pools do. The benefit of using a salt water system in a fibreglass pool is that its smooth surface will hardly ever collect bacteria and algae. Vinyl liner pools have metal parts, as well as connections, which will corrode with salt water being used. Salt water can also destroy the interior surfaces of concrete pools, particularly if they have plaster in them. This means that by choosing salt water, you’ll be saving on maintenance costs and time spent cleaning, without having to worry about any risk of corrosion of the pool surface. 

can-fibreglass-pools-be-saltwater-blogimage2

Conclusion

It’s important to check with a professional when making the decision about buying a salt water system for your fibreglass pool. You will need to know everything about the running and maintenance, so you can ensure it functions efficiently. Making sure your salt water fibreglass pool is well maintained and performing regular checks is crucial if you want to prolong the life of your pool and minimise any repair costs. Please contact the team at Newcastle Swimming Pools, as we would be happy to help with any questions you might have around salt water systems for your fibreglass pool.

nsp-cta-25 (1)

Can Fibreglass Pools Be Saltwater?

Swimming pools may either use a salt water system or a chlorine system, and it’s important for you to understand the benefits and challenges of both chlorine and salt water, so that you can keep your pool in top condition. The older tradition, and what many people are familiar with, is chlorine pools. Salt water pools have now emerged as a popular choice for families, as they can be of benefit for you and your swimming pool. Let us help you understand if a salt water pool is a good option for your fibreglass pool.

can-fibreglass-pools-be-saltwater-banner-m

How Does Salt Water Sanitise The Pool?

Using a salt chlorine generator, salt is added to the water in the pool and the generator of your pool will directly convert it into chlorine to sanitise the pool. The salt added is at a level high enough to allow the functioning of the generator. A salt chlorinator’s range is usually between 3,000 and 4,000 parts per million. However you don’t have to worry about tasting a lot of salt even if the water from your swimming pool enters your mouth. Swimming pools have salinity levels that are 1/10th the salinity level of the ocean. So it’s not going to be as salty as the sea, in fact, you would only taste as much salt as you would in a teardrop. 

Salt Water Is The Preferred Choice For Fibreglass Pools:

Salt water can help keep your fibreglass pool a lot cleaner, and you may even have a silky feel when you’re in the pool. It is estimated that about 80% of families in Australia utilise a salt water system in their swimming pool. More and more homes are shifting to make use of salt water systems, as they also don’t have to experience the smell or the eye-burning that is so common when a chlorine pool is used. A lot of families actually report that they prefer salt water in their fibreglass pools because they feel cleaner and don’t have the same chlorine smell and taste that other chlorine pools do. A challenge to keep in mind is to look at the area around your fibreglass pool. There may be concrete, equipment, or a timber deck around your pool. These will be subjected to splashing from the pool. Whilst the surfaces will dry over time, the concentration of the salt is high and can corrode objects which have aluminium or metal fittings. You can use fresh water to wash down these surfaces after you use the pool, to prevent this from occurring. Also ensure that the handrails/ guards that you install are compatible with the salt water system you’re using.

can-fibreglass-pools-be-saltwater-blogimage1-m

Benefits Of Salt Water:

  • Salt water systems can add to the many benefits of the popular fibreglass pools, and make it easier for you and your family to head out for a swim in your backyard. 
  • They’re safer, because the chlorine levels released by the salt chlorine generators are much lower than the concentration in chlorine pools. This means they are safer to use without worrying about the hazards from exposure and contact to such harsh chemicals. Unlike in chlorine, you can keep your eyes open underwater without having to worry about damage or have any pain caused to your eyes. 
  • An unhygienic pool is a major health concern, but with the regular disinfection which occurs with the salt chlorine generators, you won’t have to worry about the safety of your family and friends when they go for a swim. Basically, the process of electrolysis in the saltwater system releases hypochlorous acid, and when salt dissolves in water it helps maintain a clean pool. 
  • Salt water also has the ability to exfoliate, rejuvenate, and even detoxify and cleanse the skin. It increases the ability of the skin to lock in moisture, helping to nourish your skin and giving it a smooth feel, plus you won’t be left smelling like chlorine! 
  • With salt water in your fibreglass pool, you will not have to be concerned about coming out of the pool smelling strongly like chlorine. Salt water pools have very low concentrations of chlorine which aren’t harsh on the body. 
  • People with allergies or sensitive skin can use the pool without the risk of getting itchy or dry skin. You may actually find a lot of relief through the use of salt water in fibreglass pools. 

Did you know that because fibreglass pools have a smooth, non-porous gel-coat, they require less maintenance and cleaning? Fibreglass also doesn’t attract bacteria and algae in the same way that other pools do. The benefit of using a salt water system in a fibreglass pool is that its smooth surface will hardly ever collect bacteria and algae. Vinyl liner pools have metal parts, as well as connections, which will corrode with salt water being used. Salt water can also destroy the interior surfaces of concrete pools, particularly if they have plaster in them. This means that by choosing salt water, you’ll be saving on maintenance costs and time spent cleaning, without having to worry about any risk of corrosion of the pool surface. 

can-fibreglass-pools-be-saltwater-blogimage2-m

Conclusion

It’s important to check with a professional when making the decision about buying a salt water system for your fibreglass pool. You will need to know everything about the running and maintenance, so you can ensure it functions efficiently. Making sure your salt water fibreglass pool is well maintained and performing regular checks is crucial if you want to prolong the life of your pool and minimise any repair costs. Please contact the team at Newcastle Swimming Pools, as we would be happy to help with any questions you might have around salt water systems for your fibreglass pool.

nsp-cta-51 (1)

A Helpful Guide To Saving Water When You Have A Swimming Pool

If you've recently purchased a swimming pool, you probably haven't thought too much about water conservation. However, the fact is that if you aren't careful, you may end up using a lot more water than you actually need to. Given the water shortages faced by various communities around the world, it would be careless on your part to contribute to water wastage. So, in this post, we'll share with you all the do's and don'ts that will help you save water. Putting these tips into practice will allow you to be a responsible swimming pool owner who takes the environmental aspects of swimming pool ownership seriously. So, without any further delays, let's jump right in!

saving-water-with-pool-nsp-banner

1. Invest In A High-Quality Pool Cover

During the summer months, when the sun is out in full force, rapid water evaporation can become a problem. Simply put, the more water evaporates, the more you’ll have to replenish it. This constant replenishment can lead to excess water use. That’s why it’s essential for you to take some steps to keep water evaporation at bay.

One of the best ways to do this is to buy a pool cover. Nowadays, there are countless options to choose from – some offering basic features at affordable prices and others offering feature-rich options at premium prices. We recommend spending a little more money on a feature-rich pool cover. Apart from keeping a check on water evaporation, it can also prevent the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays on your swimming pool. High-end solar pool covers also have heat retention capabilities, which will guarantee warm water even during the winter months.

It’s best not to opt for a low-end pool cover simply because it’s affordable. Low-end covers are not as effective as their premium counterparts in preventing water evaporation. They also have limited thickness, which affects their durability. Ideally, you should go for a cover with a thickness of 12 – 16 millimetres. There are many options that are compatible with reels as well. These covers make it easy for users to set them up and remove them.

2. Take Care Of The Plumbing

The pipes and valves inside the swimming pool are prone to developing cracks over time. Even a minor crack can lead to a lot of water wastage. So, it’s vital that the plumbing inside the pool is in good shape. We recommend reaching out to your local plumbers for conducting periodic checks on the pool’s plumbing.

Periodic checks will be of immense help in identifying leaks and cracks within the swimming pool. Simply put, the quicker the problem is detected, the faster a solution can be developed for tackling the issue. Without timely intervention, even minor cracks can end up leaking a fair amount of water.

Apart from the plumbing, there’s also a chance that the pool’s structure cracks. When it comes to concrete pools, the chances of structural cracks are quite high. So, if you haven’t bought a pool yet and are planning to invest in one, we recommend opting for a fibreglass pool. Even though fibreglass pools are more affordable than concrete pools, they are more durable. If handled and maintained well, the chances of a fibreglass swimming pool developing structural cracks will be minimal.

saving-water-with-pool-nsp-blogimage1

3. Keep The Filter Clean

How much water you manage to conserve has a lot to do with the condition of your pool filter. Over time, as your pool filter sees more and more action, it’s bound to become dirty. In such a scenario, you need to put in some effort to ensure that the filter is cleaned well. However, if you let things be, the filter will become excessively dirty, and the only way to clean it is to backwash it.

Backwashing is a process that involves eliminating all the dirt and grime accumulated inside your pool filter. Unfortunately, while this process is used by countless pool owners, the fact is that it wastes not just water but all the pool chemicals as well. The pool chemicals play an important role in maintaining pool water chemistry.

So, we recommend periodic cleaning of the pool filter. This will ensure that you don’t have to backwash it for cleaning it. If you’re unsure how to clean your pool filter, it’s best to get in touch with local pool maintenance professionals.

4. Minimise Pool Heater Use

Pool heaters are important equipment that can come in handy, particularly if you want to use your swimming pool through the winter months. However, pool heaters also have their drawbacks. One of their biggest cons is the fact that their heating capabilities may result in excess water evaporation.

Even if you have a pool cover in place, you won’t be able to stop water evaporating if you keep your pool heater on for extended periods. So, the best way to deal with this potential problem is to minimise your usage of the pool heater. Simply put, keep it on for a short time, switch it off, and feel the water’s temperature. If the temperature isn’t as high as you’d want it, use it for some more time until the desired temperature is achieved.

The point of this exercise is to heat the water only as much as necessary. If you overheat it, there’s a high chance that a part of the water will evaporate. You will also have to wait for some time for the water to cool down if you overheat it. After all, you don’t want yourself, your family or your guests to be subject to burns, right?

saving-water-with-pool-nsp-blogimage2

Conclusion

Acute water shortages are plaguing people across the world. The time is now to be responsible and take action within your capacity to make a positive change. Sure, if you save some water alone, you may not make much of a difference. But think about what can happen if every swimming pool owner does their best to save water. We hope that you put the tips we shared with you in this guide to practice and conserve as much water as possible for the sake of the environment.

A Helpful Guide To Saving Water When You Have A Swimming Pool

If you've recently purchased a swimming pool, you probably haven't thought too much about water conservation. However, the fact is that if you aren't careful, you may end up using a lot more water than you actually need to. Given the water shortages faced by various communities around the world, it would be careless on your part to contribute to water wastage. So, in this post, we'll share with you all the dos and don'ts that will help you save water. Putting these tips into practice will allow you to be a responsible swimming pool owner who takes the environmental aspects of swimming pool ownership seriously. So, without any further delays, let's jump right in!

saving-water-with-pool-nsp-banner-m

1. Invest In A High-Quality Pool Cover

During the summer months, when the sun is out in full force, rapid water evaporation can become a problem. Simply put, the more water evaporates, the more you’ll have to replenish it. This constant replenishment can lead to excess water use. That’s why it’s essential for you to take some steps to keep water evaporation at bay.

One of the best ways to do this is to buy a pool cover. Nowadays, there are countless options to choose from – some offering basic features at affordable prices and others offering feature-rich options at premium prices. We recommend spending a little more money on a feature-rich pool cover. Apart from keeping a check on water evaporation, it can also prevent the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays on your swimming pool. High-end solar pool covers also have heat retention capabilities, which will guarantee warm water even during the winter months.

It’s best not to opt for a low-end pool cover simply because it’s affordable. Low-end covers are not as effective as their premium counterparts in preventing water evaporation. They also have limited thickness, which affects their durability. Ideally, you should go for a cover with a thickness of 12 – 16 millimetres. There are many options that are compatible with reels as well. These covers make it easy for users to set them up and remove them.

2. Take Care Of The Plumbing

The pipes and valves inside the swimming pool are prone to developing cracks over time. Even a minor crack can lead to a lot of water wastage. So, it’s vital that the plumbing inside the pool is in good shape. We recommend reaching out to your local plumbers for conducting periodic checks on the pool’s plumbing.

Periodic checks will be of immense help in identifying leaks and cracks within the swimming pool. Simply put, the quicker the problem is detected, the faster a solution can be developed for tackling the issue. Without timely intervention, even minor cracks can end up leaking a fair amount of water.

Apart from the plumbing, there’s also a chance that the pool’s structure cracks. When it comes to concrete pools, the chances of structural cracks are quite high. So, if you haven’t bought a pool yet and are planning to invest in one, we recommend opting for a fibreglass pool. Even though fibreglass pools are more affordable than concrete pools, they are more durable. If handled and maintained well, the chances of a fibreglass swimming pool developing structural cracks will be minimal.

saving-water-with-pool-nsp-blogimage1-m

3. Keep The Filter Clean

How much water you manage to conserve has a lot to do with the condition of your pool filter. Over time, as your pool filter sees more and more action, it’s bound to become dirty. In such a scenario, you need to put in some effort to ensure that the filter is cleaned well. However, if you let things be, the filter will become excessively dirty, and the only way to clean it is to backwash it.

Backwashing is a process that involves eliminating all the dirt and grime accumulated inside your pool filter. Unfortunately, while this process is used by countless pool owners, the fact is that it wastes not just water but all the pool chemicals as well. The pool chemicals play an important role in maintaining pool water chemistry.

So, we recommend periodic cleaning of the pool filter. This will ensure that you don’t have to backwash it for cleaning it. If you’re unsure how to clean your pool filter, it’s best to get in touch with local pool maintenance professionals.

4. Minimise Pool Heater Use

Pool heaters are important equipment that can come in handy, particularly if you want to use your swimming pool through the winter months. However, pool heaters also have their drawbacks. One of their biggest cons is the fact that their heating capabilities may result in excess water evaporation.

Even if you have a pool cover in place, you won’t be able to stop water evaporating if you keep your pool heater on for extended periods. So, the best way to deal with this potential problem is to minimise your usage of the pool heater. Simply put, keep it on for a short time, switch it off, and feel the water’s temperature. If the temperature isn’t as high as you’d want it, use it for some more time until the desired temperature is achieved.

The point of this exercise is to heat the water only as much as necessary. If you overheat it, there’s a high chance that a part of the water will evaporate. You will also have to wait for some time for the water to cool down if you overheat it. After all, you don’t want yourself, your family or your guests to be subject to burns, right?

saving-water-with-pool-nsp-blogimage2-m

Conclusion

Acute water shortages are plaguing people across the world. The time is now to be responsible and take action within your capacity to make a positive change. Sure, if you save some water alone, you may not make much of a difference. But think about what can happen if every swimming pool owner does their best to save water. We hope that you put the tips we shared with you in this guide to practice and conserve as much water as possible for the sake of the environment.

A Beginners Guide To Testing Your Pool Water

If you own a pool, it is essential to test the pool water. How can you know what chemical levels are in the pool water if you don't test it? Or are there any potentially dangerous substances in it? Alternatively, how many chemicals must be added to the water to make it clean and safe to swim in? This article is a complete guide to pool water testing.

Why Is It Necessary To Test The Water In Your Pool?

Your pool’s chemicals can keep it clean or turn it potentially deadly. The only way to make sure what those invisible substances are doing in your water is to test it.

You should test your water on a consistent schedule. It’s a good thing, even if it looks to be a pain! The less cleaning and water change you do, the better balanced your water is.

How Often Must You Test The Water In The Pool?

Test at least once a week and more frequently if you use the pool extensively. If you’re new to pool upkeep, you might wish to test 2-3 times each week until you get used to the changes. It’s an excellent way to check your water at least once a week. This not only ensures your pool is safe to swim in, but it protects the gel-coat finish and the integrity of your pool and its equipment.

However, there are circumstances when you should check for balanced levels, such as:

After a pool party – Getting an additional weight on your pool will throw off the balance of your pool. So, after you’ve had visitors or there’s been a lot of pool usage, test your pool and change the balance as needed.

After heavy rain – Rain, as well as other debris, will definitely alter your pool’s chemical levels after a downpour. Vacuum your pool, eliminate all debris, and test it to get your pool’s chemical levels back up to where they should be.

After you add water – Check your pool chemical levels after the water has been cycled and adjust as needed. If the pool water levels have dropped significantly due to evaporation or for any other reason, you need to take them back up.

Before and After algae treatment – If you’re treating algae, you’ll want to monitor your pool’s pH levels. This is before and after the process to ensure that your water shock is as successful as possible. You must also test and calibrate your pool after shocking it, as the pool shock may have changed your chemical levels.

Opening the pool for the summer months – Even if your pool appears to be in excellent condition, it may need to be adjusted after a lengthy period of inactivity. As you prepare to open your swimming for the season, test and alter the composition of the water.

What Are The Typical Chemical Levels In A Pool

The alkalinity, pH, calcium hardness, and chlorine are the essential chemicals to examine in your pool. You may also want to check for metals and stabilisers in some cases. The suggested levels for having a balanced collection are as follows:

Test Range

pH

7.2 – 7.6

Total Alkalinity

120 – 150ppm

Calcium Hardness

150 – 400ppm

Free Bromine

3 – 5ppm

Free Chlorine

1 -3ppm

Metals: Iron & Copper

0ppm

CYA

30 – 50 ppm

There Are Three Main Methods For Pool Testing

There are three primary ways for testing pools that a home pool or spa owner can use to test their pool water properly.

Pool Test Strips – They’re simple to use; dip the strip into the pool water and wait a few moments for the results. It’s confined to whatever reagents are used on the strip, which could be a little off.

Liquid / Reagent Pool Testing Kits – This approach is a little more time consuming, but it is pretty accurate. Reagents for various testing can be obtained as a kit or as individual reagents. Ultimate customisability / you can test for any of the values you feel should be tested. To properly drop in reagents, you’ll need a firm hand.

These could be of two types: First, manual test kits with colour coding that you should interpret. Second, are the digital test kits with a device that scans the data and gives you a numeric number rather than a colour reading.

Professional pool testing – Professional pool testing is the simplest and most accurate method of pool testing, but it is also the most pricey. Collect a water sample and bring it to your local swimming pool store for testing. If things are getting out of line, this is a great alternative, but it shouldn’t go to this position with proper pool upkeep.

How To Combat Contaminants?

If you experience problems with your pool water, you may have to test more regularly. Many of these issues can be created by the quality of the water you put in your pool. Since well water has more elements, your pool water may contain more iron and copper. If the town has hard water, you’re more likely to have high calcium levels.

These pollutants can make maintaining the proper chemical balance in your pool hard, as well as discolour and physically damage pool surfaces. It’s more efficient and cost-effective to keep an eye on them and prevent damage rather than fix it later. Pool water testing is the very first step in that prevention.

How to Safely Add Chemicals To Your Pool Water

1. To ensure that chemicals are being used safely, always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to protect your fibreglass pool from damage.

2. Wear the proper protective gear and clothes, such as gloves, shoes, and eyewear.

3. In a well-ventilated place, handle chemicals.

4. Use separate, clear metal or plastic cups to transfer or measure chemicals. Wooden scoops should never be used.

5. Chemicals should indeed be protected against moisture and water, such as a cup of coffee or water. Even placing the wet scoop to the pail may trigger an allergic response.

6. Always dilute the chemicals by adding them to water, not the other way around, unless the container’s label indicates otherwise.

A Beginners Guide To Testing Your Pool Water

If you own a pool, it is essential to test the pool water. How can you know what chemical levels are in the pool water if you don't test it? Or are there any potentially dangerous substances in it? Alternatively, how many chemicals must be added to the water to make it clean and safe to swim in? This article is a complete guide to pool water testing.

Why Is It Necessary To Test The Water In Your Pool?

Your pool’s chemicals can keep it clean or turn it potentially deadly. The only way to make sure what those invisible substances are doing in your water is to test it.

You should test your water on a consistent schedule. It’s a good thing, even if it looks to be a pain! The less cleaning and water change you do, the better balanced your water is.

How Often Must You Test The Water In The Pool?

Test at least once a week and more frequently if you use the pool extensively. If you’re new to pool upkeep, you might wish to test 2-3 times each week until you get used to the changes. It’s an excellent way to check your water at least once a week. This not only ensures your pool is safe to swim in, but it protects the gel-coat finish and the integrity of your pool and its equipment.

However, there are circumstances when you should check for balanced levels, such as:

After a pool party – Getting an additional weight on your pool will throw off the balance of your pool. So, after you’ve had visitors or there’s been a lot of pool usage, test your pool and change the balance as needed.

After heavy rain – Rain, as well as other debris, will definitely alter your pool’s chemical levels after a downpour. Vacuum your pool, eliminate all debris, and test it to get your pool’s chemical levels back up to where they should be.

After you add water – Check your pool chemical levels after the water has been cycled and adjust as needed. If the pool water levels have dropped significantly due to evaporation or for any other reason, you need to take them back up.

Before and After algae treatment – If you’re treating algae, you’ll want to monitor your pool’s pH levels. This is before and after the process to ensure that your water shock is as successful as possible. You must also test and calibrate your pool after shocking it, as the pool shock may have changed your chemical levels.

Opening the pool for the summer months – Even if your pool appears to be in excellent condition, it may need to be adjusted after a lengthy period of inactivity. As you prepare to open your swimming for the season, test and alter the composition of the water.

What Are The Typical Chemical Levels In A Pool

The alkalinity, pH, calcium hardness, and chlorine are the essential chemicals to examine in your pool. You may also want to check for metals and stabilisers in some cases. The suggested levels for having a balanced collection are as follows:

Test Range

pH

7.2 – 7.6

Total Alkalinity

120 – 150ppm

Calcium Hardness

150 – 400ppm

Free Bromine

3 – 5ppm

Free Chlorine

1 -3ppm

Metals: Iron & Copper

0ppm

CYA

30 – 50 ppm

There Are Three Main Methods For Pool Testing

There are three primary ways for testing pools that a home pool or spa owner can use to test their pool water properly.

Pool Test Strips – They’re simple to use; dip the strip into the pool water and wait a few moments for the results. It’s confined to whatever reagents are used on the strip, which could be a little off.

Liquid / Reagent Pool Testing Kits – This approach is a little more time consuming, but it is pretty accurate. Reagents for various testing can be obtained as a kit or as individual reagents. Ultimate customisability / you can test for any of the values you feel should be tested. To properly drop in reagents, you’ll need a firm hand.

These could be of two types: First, manual test kits with colour coding that you should interpret. Second, are the digital test kits with a device that scans the data and gives you a numeric number rather than a colour reading.

Professional pool testing – Professional pool testing is the simplest and most accurate method of pool testing, but it is also the most pricey. Collect a water sample and bring it to your local swimming pool store for testing. If things are getting out of line, this is a great alternative, but it shouldn’t go to this position with proper pool upkeep.

How To Combat Contaminants?

If you experience problems with your pool water, you may have to test more regularly. Many of these issues can be created by the quality of the water you put in your pool. Since well water has more elements, your pool water may contain more iron and copper. If the town has hard water, you’re more likely to have high calcium levels.

These pollutants can make maintaining the proper chemical balance in your pool hard, as well as discolour and physically damage pool surfaces. It’s more efficient and cost-effective to keep an eye on them and prevent damage rather than fix it later. Pool water testing is the very first step in that prevention.

How to Safely Add Chemicals To Your Pool Water

1. To ensure that chemicals are being used safely, always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to protect your fibreglass pool from damage.

2. Wear the proper protective gear and clothes, such as gloves, shoes, and eyewear.

3. In a well-ventilated place, handle chemicals.

4. Use separate, clear metal or plastic cups to transfer or measure chemicals. Wooden scoops should never be used.

5. Chemicals should indeed be protected against moisture and water, such as a cup of coffee or water. Even placing the wet scoop to the pail may trigger an allergic response.

6. Always dilute the chemicals by adding them to water, not the other way around, unless the container’s label indicates otherwise.

10 Of The Best Pool Upgrades That Will Save You Money, Time And Energy

A swimming pool is a lifetime investment. It is a welcome addition to a home. Apart from becoming a place to invite guests, a pool is a great place for making positive memories. Adding modern pool upgrades will increase your property value. The right upgrades can help save on energy costs and keep money in your wallet. Here are 10 pool upgrades that will maximize savings this season.

1. Update The Pool Finish

If your pool is heated, this simple change will reduce energy costs and beautify your pool even further. Consider dark finishes for the pool. This helps absorb more of the sun’s UV rays. Although UV is bad for your skin, it’s an excellent and efficient way to warm up the pool. With this natural heating method, you’re cutting down on energy use and saving money at the same time. A pool finish upgrade gives your pool an instant facelift at a fraction of the cost.

2. Replace The Current Pool Pump

Modern pool pumps are designed for efficiency. If you’ve had your pool for a while, your pump is probably outdated and inefficient. This is a huge money guzzler. Increase your savings with a variable speed pump. This pump type relies on a magnetic-based motor. It reduces energy consumption, noise, and vibration. Unlike old pumps that have only one speed, variable pumps are equipped with adjustable speeds-between 3 to 8 settings. There’s also a built-in timer.

Variable speed pumps are known for cutting electricity costs. The adjustable settings will optimise how long and when your pump operates. This minimises the wear and tear on the pump and extends its life. When shopping for variable pumps, look for ENERGY-STAR® ratings. This saves up to 90% of electricity use compared to traditional pumps.

In fact, these pumps are so efficient that the EPA has made it mandatory to install variable speed pumps on pools from 2021.

3. Buy A Bigger Pool Filter

The pool’s filter keeps the water clear by filtering out debris. A large filter has a bigger surface area for the water to flow through. This means the pump doesn’t have to work too hard to maintain water circulation. Since the pump is using less energy, it will have a long shelf life.

4. Choose A Heat Pump

If your pool is in a covered or naturally shaded area, then investing in a solar water heater isn’t feasible. In such cases, shop for a sturdy heat pump. These have been in the market for some time. However, modern heat pumps are far more efficient because they need less energy to operate. Modern heat pumps are eco-friendly. These pumps rely on the air temperature to heat the air. They function best when the external temperature is 55 degrees. When the air gets cooler, it will cool down the pool on very hot days.

5. Conduct Routine Maintenance

Ensure your pool pump and filter are always in good condition. This helps them operate at their peak efficiency. Keeping the pool water clean and germ-free is always the goal. If you are a do-it-yourself enthusiast, then conducting pool chores won’t be a problem. But if you tend to get lazy, then consider hiring external pool maintenance professionals to help you out. They have fixed maintenance plans to clean your pool on a routine basis.

6. Invest In Automation

There are tech gadgets you can implement to automate pool systems on a regular basis. Temperature adjustments, filter monitoring, and heating systems are just a few things that can be automated. In addition, you may track your pool systems and performance via your smartphone phone. This is the ultimate in efficiency and convenience.

7. Use Robots

If you do not prefer complete automation, enlist in a robotic pool cleaning method. It takes the hassle away from pool maintenance. Robots are competent pool cleaners. They’ve been in the market for a while. And they’ve come a long way since their first-generation models. Modern robotic units clean everything from the pool floor to the pool water, to the steps, walls, and other surfaces. They’re able to do all this in a fraction of the time and energy of a regular cleaning system or vacuum. The only thing you would have to do is manually place and remove the robotic cleaner from the pool. From time to time, the robotic cleaner also needs cleaning.

8. Automated Cleaners

You can install pop-ups in your pool. These literally pop up on your pool surfaces, such as the benches, walls, and steps. They spray these surfaces with pressurised water to push off debris and dirt to the main drain. These pop-up systems are just as efficient as robotic cleaners.

9. Include Pool-Friendly Landscaping

If you want to incorporate or update the landscaping around the pool, consider features that will positively impact your pool. For instance, plant natural windbreakers like shrubs and trees. These minimise heat loss and keep the pool warm without increasing the thermostat. Natural windbreakers also reduce evaporation. This lowers your water bill. If shrubs and trees sound like too much maintenance, then consider a hard-scaped wall or pergola.

10. Put A Lid On It

What causes your pool heater to run longer than required? Heat loss. Evaporation is responsible for up to 75 per cent of heat loss. The easiest and quick-fix solution is placing a lid on the swimming pool. However, not any lid will do. Consider a solar pool lid or cover. Solar cover minimise evaporation and heat loss with a lot of grace. They’re also very easy to place. Did we forget to mention they’re quite affordable too!

Covers work by creating a barrier between your pool and the external atmosphere. This barrier harnesses solar energy and heat and reduces the rate of evaporation. If there is better heat retention in the pool, then your heater has to work less. This cuts down on electricity use.

Conclusion

There are many ways to cut costs and maximise the life of your swimming pool. Invest in these 10 pool upgrades and start enjoying money and energy savings immediately.

10 Of The Best Pool Upgrades That Will Save You Money, Time And Energy

A swimming pool is a lifetime investment. It is a welcome addition to a home. Apart from becoming a place to invite guests, a pool is a great place for making positive memories. Adding modern pool upgrades will increase your property value. The right upgrades can help save on energy costs and keep money in your wallet. Here are 10 pool upgrades that will maximize savings this season.

1. Update The Pool Finish

If your pool is heated, this simple change will reduce energy costs and beautify your pool even further. Consider dark finishes for the pool. This helps absorb more of the sun’s UV rays. Although UV is bad for your skin, it’s an excellent and efficient way to warm up the pool. With this natural heating method, you’re cutting down on energy use and saving money at the same time. A pool finish upgrade gives your pool an instant facelift at a fraction of the cost.

2. Replace The Current Pool Pump

Modern pool pumps are designed for efficiency. If you’ve had your pool for a while, your pump is probably outdated and inefficient. This is a huge money guzzler. Increase your savings with a variable speed pump. This pump type relies on a magnetic-based motor. It reduces energy consumption, noise, and vibration. Unlike old pumps that have only one speed, variable pumps are equipped with adjustable speeds-between 3 to 8 settings. There’s also a built-in timer.

Variable speed pumps are known for cutting electricity costs. The adjustable settings will optimise how long and when your pump operates. This minimises the wear and tear on the pump and extends its life. When shopping for variable pumps, look for ENERGY-STAR® ratings. This saves up to 90% of electricity use compared to traditional pumps.

In fact, these pumps are so efficient that the EPA has made it mandatory to install variable speed pumps on pools from 2021.

3. Buy A Bigger Pool Filter

The pool’s filter keeps the water clear by filtering out debris. A large filter has a bigger surface area for the water to flow through. This means the pump doesn’t have to work too hard to maintain water circulation. Since the pump is using less energy, it will have a long shelf life.

4. Choose A Heat Pump

If your pool is in a covered or naturally shaded area, then investing in a solar water heater isn’t feasible. In such cases, shop for a sturdy heat pump. These have been in the market for some time. However, modern heat pumps are far more efficient because they need less energy to operate. Modern heat pumps are eco-friendly. These pumps rely on the air temperature to heat the air. They function best when the external temperature is 55 degrees. When the air gets cooler, it will cool down the pool on very hot days.

5. Conduct Routine Maintenance

Ensure your pool pump and filter are always in good condition. This helps them operate at their peak efficiency. Keeping the pool water clean and germ-free is always the goal. If you are a do-it-yourself enthusiast, then conducting pool chores won’t be a problem. But if you tend to get lazy, then consider hiring external pool maintenance professionals to help you out. They have fixed maintenance plans to clean your pool on a routine basis.

6. Invest In Automation

There are tech gadgets you can implement to automate pool systems on a regular basis. Temperature adjustments, filter monitoring, and heating systems are just a few things that can be automated. In addition, you may track your pool systems and performance via your smartphone phone. This is the ultimate in efficiency and convenience.

7. Use Robots

If you do not prefer complete automation, enlist in a robotic pool cleaning method. It takes the hassle away from pool maintenance. Robots are competent pool cleaners. They’ve been in the market for a while. And they’ve come a long way since their first-generation models. Modern robotic units clean everything from the pool floor to the pool water, to the steps, walls, and other surfaces. They’re able to do all this in a fraction of the time and energy of a regular cleaning system or vacuum. The only thing you would have to do is manually place and remove the robotic cleaner from the pool. From time to time, the robotic cleaner also needs cleaning.

8. Automated Cleaners

You can install pop-ups in your pool. These literally pop up on your pool surfaces, such as the benches, walls, and steps. They spray these surfaces with pressurized water to push off debris and dirt to the main drain. These pop-up systems are just as efficient as robotic cleaners.

9. Include Pool-Friendly Landscaping

If you want to incorporate or update the landscaping around the pool, consider features that will positively impact your pool. For instance, plant natural windbreakers like shrubs and trees. These minimise heat loss and keep the pool warm without increasing the thermostat. Natural windbreakers also reduce evaporation. This lowers your water bill. If shrubs and trees sound like too much maintenance, then consider a hard-scaped wall or pergola.

10. Put A Lid On It

What causes your pool heater to run longer than required? Heat loss. Evaporation is responsible for up to 75 per cent of heat loss. The easiest and quick-fix solution is placing a lid on the swimming pool. However, not any lid will do. Consider a solar pool lid or cover. Solar cover minimise evaporation and heat loss with a lot of grace. They’re also very easy to place. Did we forget to mention they’re quite affordable too!

Covers work by creating a barrier between your pool and the external atmosphere. This barrier harnesses solar energy and heat and reduces the rate of evaporation. If there is better heat retention in the pool, then your heater has to work less. This cuts down on electricity use.

Conclusion

There are many ways to cut costs and maximise the life of your swimming pool. Invest in these 10 pool upgrades and start enjoying money and energy savings immediately.

Innovative, Modern Ideas to Give Your Pool Area a Sophisticated Look

A pool area is a great place to spend time with family and friends, relax and soak up the sun. To make the most of this space, it’s important to have a stylish and sophisticated look. This not only enhances the look of your home but also provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for you and your guests. Here are some innovative and modern ideas that you can use to give your pool area a sophisticated look.

Creating a Minimalist Aesthetic with Sleek Furniture and Simple Landscaping

Minimalism is a timeless design trend that’s been popular for many years, and it’s a great way to give your pool area a sophisticated look. Choose sleek and modern furniture that’s made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, teak or resin, and opt for simple, clean lines. Keep the landscaping simple as well, with a focus on a few well-placed plants. You can try large leafy foliage or succulents, to create a serene and calming environment.

Adding a Pop of Color with Bold Tiles and Decorative Accents

Another way to create a sophisticated look in your pool area is to add a pop of colour with bold tiles and decorative accents. You can use tiles in bright, eye-catching hues to create a statement feature, such as a feature wall, or simply use them as an accent around the pool. Decorative accents, such as outdoor sculptures, colourful lanterns or bright throw cushions, are also a great way to add a pop of colour and bring life to the space.

Incorporating Natural Materials, such as Wood and Stone, for a Rustic Touch

Natural materials, such as wood and stone, are an excellent way to add a rustic touch to your pool area and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider incorporating wood decking around the pool, or using large stone pavers to create a patio area. You can also add wooden or stone furniture, such as benches or chaise lounges, to continue the rustic theme throughout the space.

Enhancing the Ambience with Strategic Lighting and Fire Features

Lighting is an essential aspect of creating a sophisticated look in your pool area, and it can also be used to enhance the ambience of the space. Consider using strategic lighting to highlight key features, such as a water feature or statement wall. Outdoor fire features, such as fire pits or fireplaces, are also an excellent way to create a warm and cozy atmosphere in the evening.

Focusing on Functionality with Multi-Purpose Furniture and Outdoor Kitchens

When it comes to pool area design, functionality is just as important as style. Consider investing in multi-purpose furniture, such as outdoor sofas with built-in storage or chaise lounges that can also be used as sun beds. Outdoor kitchens, complete with grills, fridges, and sinks, are also a great way to make the most of your pool area. It will provide a convenient place to prepare meals and drinks while enjoying the great outdoors.

Blurring the Lines between Indoor and Outdoor Spaces with Glass Enclosures

Glass enclosures are an excellent way to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces and create a seamless transition between the two. Consider installing a glass wall or doors that can be opened up to connect the pool area with the indoor living space, creating an open and airy feel. Glass enclosures also provide protection from the elements, so you can enjoy your pool area year-round.

Building a Relaxing Water Feature, such as a Spa or Stream

Adding a water feature to your pool area is a great way to create a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere. Consider building a spa, complete with jets and bubbles, for a luxurious way to unwind. A stream, complete with plants, rocks, and waterfalls, is another way to bring the sights and sounds of nature to your pool area.

Designing a Unique Shape and Layout to Maximise the Pool's Impact

The shape and layout of your pool can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your pool area. Consider choosing a unique shape, such as an infinity edge or a free-form design, to create a visually stunning feature. For added impact, consider positioning the pool in a way that maximises its view, such as facing a stunning landscape or city skyline.

Using Textured Surfaces, such as Pebbles or Aggregate, for a Luxurious Touch

Texture is a great way to add visual interest and a luxurious touch to your pool area. Consider using textured surfaces, such as pebbles or aggregate, in areas around the pool, such as the decking or patio. These textures not only provide visual interest but also add slip resistance, making them a safe and practical option for a pool area.

Creating a Seamless Transition between Pool and Landscape with Thoughtful Plant Selection

To create a seamless transition between the pool area and the surrounding landscape, consider incorporating plants into your design. Choose plants that complement the colours and textures of your pool area, such as tall grasses or colourful blooms. To create a sense of privacy, consider planting tall foliage or installing a living wall.

Playing with Patterns and Textures in the Pool Tiling for Visual Interest

Pool tiling is an important aspect of creating a sophisticated look in your pool area, and it’s also a great opportunity to play with patterns and textures. Consider using mosaic tiles in bold colours or unique patterns, or opt for textured tiles, such as pebble or stone, for a more natural look

Introducing Comfort and Style with Custom-Designed Pool Loungers and Umbrellas

Comfort and style are key when it comes to pool area design, and custom-designed pool loungers and umbrellas are a great way to add both. Choose loungers and umbrellas in colours and materials that complement the overall design of your pool area, such as natural wood or bold, bright hues. For added style, consider incorporating unique features, such as built-in storage or adjustable backrests.

To Conclude

Creating a sophisticated look in your pool area is all about incorporating a mix of design elements that reflect your personal style and bring the space to life. There are many ways to make the most of your pool area and create a space that you’ll love spending time in. So, get creative, think outside the box, and start turning your pool area into the ultimate retreat.

Innovative, Modern Ideas to Give Your Pool Area a Sophisticated Look

A pool area is a great place to spend time with family and friends, relax and soak up the sun. To make the most of this space, it’s important to have a stylish and sophisticated look. This not only enhances the look of your home but also provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for you and your guests. Here are some innovative and modern ideas that you can use to give your pool area a sophisticated look.

Creating a Minimalist Aesthetic with Sleek Furniture and Simple Landscaping

Minimalism is a timeless design trend that’s been popular for many years, and it’s a great way to give your pool area a sophisticated look. Choose sleek and modern furniture that’s made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, teak or resin, and opt for simple, clean lines. Keep the landscaping simple as well, with a focus on a few well-placed plants. You can try large leafy foliage or succulents, to create a serene and calming environment.

Adding a Pop of Color with Bold Tiles and Decorative Accents

Another way to create a sophisticated look in your pool area is to add a pop of colour with bold tiles and decorative accents. You can use tiles in bright, eye-catching hues to create a statement feature, such as a feature wall, or simply use them as an accent around the pool. Decorative accents, such as outdoor sculptures, colourful lanterns or bright throw cushions, are also a great way to add a pop of colour and bring life to the space.

Incorporating Natural Materials, such as Wood and Stone, for a Rustic Touch

Natural materials, such as wood and stone, are an excellent way to add a rustic touch to your pool area and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider incorporating wood decking around the pool, or using large stone pavers to create a patio area. You can also add wooden or stone furniture, such as benches or chaise lounges, to continue the rustic theme throughout the space.

Enhancing the Ambience with Strategic Lighting and Fire Features

Lighting is an essential aspect of creating a sophisticated look in your pool area, and it can also be used to enhance the ambience of the space. Consider using strategic lighting to highlight key features, such as a water feature or statement wall. Outdoor fire features, such as fire pits or fireplaces, are also an excellent way to create a warm and cozy atmosphere in the evening.

Focusing on Functionality with Multi-Purpose Furniture and Outdoor Kitchens

When it comes to pool area design, functionality is just as important as style. Consider investing in multi-purpose furniture, such as outdoor sofas with built-in storage or chaise lounges that can also be used as sun beds. Outdoor kitchens, complete with grills, fridges, and sinks, are also a great way to make the most of your pool area. It will provide a convenient place to prepare meals and drinks while enjoying the great outdoors.

Blurring the Lines between Indoor and Outdoor Spaces with Glass Enclosures

Glass enclosures are an excellent way to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces and create a seamless transition between the two. Consider installing a glass wall or doors that can be opened up to connect the pool area with the indoor living space, creating an open and airy feel. Glass enclosures also provide protection from the elements, so you can enjoy your pool area year-round.

Building a Relaxing Water Feature, such as a Spa or Stream

Adding a water feature to your pool area is a great way to create a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere. Consider building a spa, complete with jets and bubbles, for a luxurious way to unwind. A stream, complete with plants, rocks, and waterfalls, is another way to bring the sights and sounds of nature to your pool area.

Designing a Unique Shape and Layout to Maximise the Pool's Impact

The shape and layout of your pool can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your pool area. Consider choosing a unique shape, such as an infinity edge or a free-form design, to create a visually stunning feature. For added impact, consider positioning the pool in a way that maximises its view, such as facing a stunning landscape or city skyline.

Using Textured Surfaces, such as Pebbles or Aggregate, for a Luxurious Touch

Texture is a great way to add visual interest and a luxurious touch to your pool area. Consider using textured surfaces, such as pebbles or aggregate, in areas around the pool, such as the decking or patio. These textures not only provide visual interest but also add slip resistance, making them a safe and practical option for a pool area.

Creating a Seamless Transition between Pool and Landscape with Thoughtful Plant Selection

To create a seamless transition between the pool area and the surrounding landscape, consider incorporating plants into your design. Choose plants that complement the colours and textures of your pool area, such as tall grasses or colourful blooms. To create a sense of privacy, consider planting tall foliage or installing a living wall.

Playing with Patterns and Textures in the Pool Tiling for Visual Interest

Pool tiling is an important aspect of creating a sophisticated look in your pool area, and it’s also a great opportunity to play with patterns and textures. Consider using mosaic tiles in bold colours or unique patterns, or opt for textured tiles, such as pebble or stone, for a more natural look

Introducing Comfort and Style with Custom-Designed Pool Loungers and Umbrellas

Comfort and style are key when it comes to pool area design, and custom-designed pool loungers and umbrellas are a great way to add both. Choose loungers and umbrellas in colours and materials that complement the overall design of your pool area, such as natural wood or bold, bright hues. For added style, consider incorporating unique features, such as built-in storage or adjustable backrests.

To Conclude

Creating a sophisticated look in your pool area is all about incorporating a mix of design elements that reflect your personal style and bring the space to life. There are many ways to make the most of your pool area and create a space that you’ll love spending time in. So, get creative, think outside the box, and start turning your pool area into the ultimate retreat.

The Advantages Of Digital Pool Testers Over Pool Test Strips And Liquid Test Kits

Anyone who owns a fibreglass pool knows that they need to check the chemistry of their pool water from time to time. You'll need to ensure that the water balance of your pool is maintained so that people can safely enjoy using your pool. Before you can start adding pool chemicals to your fibreglass pool, you'll need to use a water testing kit, to find out what the levels of chemicals in your pool water actually are.

This can be done in three ways. You can use:

  • Pool test strips
  • Liquid test kits
  • Digital pool testers

Of these, digital pool testers are the most accurate.

How can you test the water of your fibreglass pool?

In case you’re using your fibreglass pool often, especially during the pool season, you’ll need to check the quality of the water in your pool often as well. Ideally, this should be around twice or thrice every week. Of the three options available to you, when it comes to testing pool water quality, there are certain advantages and disadvantages that each provides. Let’s look at these individually.

Pool test strips

Many pool owners make use of pool test strips when checking the water quality of their pool. Not only are pool test strips easy to use, but they are affordable as well. You will be able to measure a broad range of pool water levels.

You can test for the alkalinity levels in your pool, the calcium hardness of the pool, as well as the amount of cyanuric acid that’s present in it. You’ll also be able to check the chlorine levels, the levels of free chlorine in the water, the bromine levels, as well as the pH levels of the water in the pool. All you have to do is dip the pool test strip into the water of your fibreglass pool.

Then, your pool test strip will display different colours that indicate what the pool chemistry of your fibreglass pool is like. Different pool test strips might use different colours to show results. This is why you should always follow the instructions that come with the pool test strip you purchase.

People prefer using pool test strips as they are relatively inexpensive. However, they don’t give you the most accurate results regarding the chemical composition of your pool water. If you’re on a budget, however, then pool test strips can be a good option for you.

Liquid test kits

If you want to go for something that’s more accurate than a pool test strip, then a liquid test kit can be perfect for you. A liquid test kit will provide you with the same abilities related to testing, as pool test strips. You’ll be able to check the same things, but the results you get will be more accurate.

In order to use a liquid test kit, you’ll first need to take a sample of water from your fibreglass pool. Then, combine these samples with liquid reagents. You’ll find separate reagents for each water quality factor that you want to check. You can find what the current levels of your pool are, by matching the colours to the colour chart that came with your kit. This colour chart helps you to better assess what the quality of water in your pool is like.

This way of testing the quality of water in your fibreglass pool is more difficult than using pool test strips. While this method is more accurate, you’ll also need to be more careful in how you conduct the test. You’ll need to follow the directions that are provided to you, more closely, in order to get results that are accurate.

Digital pool testers

The most accurate of the three methods you can use to check the water quality of your pool are digital pool testers. These kinds of testers combine the benefits you get both with pool test strips as well as liquid test kits. Once you’ve calibrated your digital pool tester properly, the results you’ll get are extremely accurate. However, digital pool testers are also the most expensive of the three options available to you.

How do you use digital pool testers?

Exactly how your digital pool tester will perform, will depend on the brand that you get. This is as digital pool testers from different manufacturers tend to work differently. For some digital pool testers, you’ll need to collect water samples that you can then add to the digital pool tester, to get your result. You can also find digital pool testers that you can manually dip into the water of your fibreglass pool to check the water quality.

What’s useful about digital pool testers, especially when compared to the other methods, is that you don’t need to keep buying them again and again. You can’t reuse the same pool test kit for conducting tests twice in the same week. You’ll need two pool test kits for that. But with digital pool testers, you’re making a one-time purchase. In addition to this, digital pool testers are also far more accurate than the other two options available to you.

With a digital pool tester, you can also measure the salinity of the pool, the amount of total dissolved solids. You can measure other factors that the other two kinds of pool test kits can’t help you with. This makes digital pool testers the most effective option, of the three.

Conclusion

Have you been wondering whether you should opt for pool test strips, liquid test kits or digital pool testers? If you have, then note that there are advantages and disadvantages to each of these. Of the three, digital pool testers are the most accurate, and they can also be reused multiple times. While it may be more expensive than pool test strips or liquid test kits, with a digital pool tester, you’re saving more money over the long run.

Digital pool testers also tend to be more accurate than the other two types, and you can test for a greater number of water qualities with a digital pool tester. This makes digital pool testers superior in every way.

The Advantages Of Digital Pool Testers Over Pool Test Strips And Liquid Test Kits

Anyone who owns a fibreglass pool knows that they need to check the chemistry of their pool water from time to time. You'll need to ensure that the water balance of your pool is maintained so that people can safely enjoy using your pool. Before you can start adding pool chemicals to your fibreglass pool, you'll need to use a water testing kit, to find out what the levels of chemicals in your pool water actually are.

This can be done in three ways. You can use:

  • Pool test strips
  • Liquid test kits
  • Digital pool testers

Of these, digital pool testers are the most accurate.

How can you test the water of your fibreglass pool?

In case you’re using your fibreglass pool often, especially during the pool season, you’ll need to check the quality of the water in your pool often as well. Ideally, this should be around twice or thrice every week. Of the three options available to you, when it comes to testing pool water quality, there are certain advantages and disadvantages that each provides. Let’s look at these individually.

Pool test strips

Many pool owners make use of pool test strips when checking the water quality of their pool. Not only are pool test strips easy to use, but they are affordable as well. You will be able to measure a broad range of pool water levels.

You can test for the alkalinity levels in your pool, the calcium hardness of the pool, as well as the amount of cyanuric acid that’s present in it. You’ll also be able to check the chlorine levels, the levels of free chlorine in the water, the bromine levels, as well as the pH levels of the water in the pool. All you have to do is dip the pool test strip into the water of your fibreglass pool.

Then, your pool test strip will display different colours that indicate what the pool chemistry of your fibreglass pool is like. Different pool test strips might use different colours to show results. This is why you should always follow the instructions that come with the pool test strip you purchase.

People prefer using pool test strips as they are relatively inexpensive. However, they don’t give you the most accurate results regarding the chemical composition of your pool water. If you’re on a budget, however, then pool test strips can be a good option for you.

Liquid test kits

If you want to go for something that’s more accurate than a pool test strip, then a liquid test kit can be perfect for you. A liquid test kit will provide you with the same abilities related to testing, as pool test strips. You’ll be able to check the same things, but the results you get will be more accurate.

In order to use a liquid test kit, you’ll first need to take a sample of water from your fibreglass pool. Then, combine these samples with liquid reagents. You’ll find separate reagents for each water quality factor that you want to check. You can find what the current levels of your pool are, by matching the colours to the colour chart that came with your kit. This colour chart helps you to better assess what the quality of water in your pool is like.

This way of testing the quality of water in your fibreglass pool is more difficult than using pool test strips. While this method is more accurate, you’ll also need to be more careful in how you conduct the test. You’ll need to follow the directions that are provided to you, more closely, in order to get results that are accurate.

Digital pool testers

The most accurate of the three methods you can use to check the water quality of your pool are digital pool testers. These kinds of testers combine the benefits you get both with pool test strips as well as liquid test kits. Once you’ve calibrated your digital pool tester properly, the results you’ll get are extremely accurate. However, digital pool testers are also the most expensive of the three options available to you.

How do you use digital pool testers?

Exactly how your digital pool tester will perform, will depend on the brand that you get. This is as digital pool testers from different manufacturers tend to work differently. For some digital pool testers, you’ll need to collect water samples that you can then add to the digital pool tester, to get your result. You can also find digital pool testers that you can manually dip into the water of your fibreglass pool to check the water quality.

What’s useful about digital pool testers, especially when compared to the other methods, is that you don’t need to keep buying them again and again. You can’t reuse the same pool test kit for conducting tests twice in the same week. You’ll need two pool test kits for that. But with digital pool testers, you’re making a one-time purchase. In addition to this, digital pool testers are also far more accurate than the other two options available to you.

With a digital pool tester, you can also measure the salinity of the pool, the amount of total dissolved solids. You can measure other factors that the other two kinds of pool test kits can’t help you with. This makes digital pool testers the most effective option, of the three.

Conclusion

Have you been wondering whether you should opt for pool test strips, liquid test kits or digital pool testers? If you have, then note that there are advantages and disadvantages to each of these. Of the three, digital pool testers are the most accurate, and they can also be reused multiple times. While it may be more expensive than pool test strips or liquid test kits, with a digital pool tester, you’re saving more money over the long run.

Digital pool testers also tend to be more accurate than the other two types, and you can test for a greater number of water qualities with a digital pool tester. This makes digital pool testers superior in every way.

Opt For Types Of Pool Equipment That Are Energy Efficient To Save Money

Conserving energy is not only good from a savings standpoint but also an essential means of displaying your concern and care for the environment. Using sustainable ways to maintain your pool to cut costs and go green is the way forward. Pools consume huge amounts of power. In fact, pool pumps are only second to air conditioners when it comes to consuming power. Most people use their pools around the year, especially the hi-tech fibreglass pools.

Too Much Energy Consumption

If you happen to live in a cold location, then in winter, pools are heated which leads to high power consumption. Consequently, it is a wise move to look at whatever options are available to consume lesser energy and cut down the pool maintenance costs. One of the essential areas which can help you cut costs and power consumption is by using newer technology pool equipment. Most people tend to use outdated pool equipment to save on capital or upfront investment. Nonetheless, by updating to newer technology, pool equipment can help you save energy and cut maintenance costs. For instance, all new fibreglass pools come with technology features that are current.

Updating To New Pool Equipment to Save Energy Consumption

To support decarbonization and help the world meet its goal of lowering emissions, it is important that everyone chips in globally. Using old pool equipment which is less energy efficient needs to be changed to newer and more efficient tools. These aid in cutting down your pool’s power consumption and you can continue to enjoy using the pool without having to worry about the power consumption.

By using the latest equipment, you save the environment and save on costs: 

  • Use a Variable Speed Pump or a Smaller Pump- If you are still using a large pump, then your energy costs will be high. It is important to check every couple of years for pumps with newer technology spelling efficiency. Any reduction in pool pump use leads to energy savings and cost reduction. A pump that has energy star ratings could save a considerable amount of energy and money. Variable pumps function at different RPMs, consuming less energy.  
  • Upgrade To a High-Efficiency Pool Heater- It is important to ensure that you are not overheating your pool or underheating. This is at the top among home pool tips to save energy and costs. Though the optimum temperature for heated pools is 78 degrees Fahrenheit, many people heat it up to 82-84 degrees Fahrenheit. Upgrading to a high-efficiency heater can help you save energy. High-efficiency heaters can go up to 90% efficiency and that would mean a lot of savings. Another option is to use solar-powered heaters which are ideal when it comes to having a sustainable pool.

Sustainable Lighting and Rapid Cleaning

You may not realise that your pool cleaning and lighting can change how you live:

  • Buy A Robotic Cleaner- Suction side cleaners or pressure side cleaners for pools use older technology and consume more power. A robotic cleaner functions with a self-contained filtration mechanism and consumes low-voltage power. The robotic cleaners are new technology and the upfront cost is higher. However, robotic cleaners for the pool are the most efficient in saving power. If you wish to continue using pressure pool cleaners, then upgrade to a variable speed pump to save energy and costs.  
  • Install LED Pool Lights- It is a well-known fact that LED lights consume less power and run for a longer period. An interesting fact is that LED uses less than 50 watts of energy versus the 300 watts required by incandescent old bulbs. It is important to make every possible change in your pool equipment to see a larger overall impact on energy savings. LED bulbs are known to cut power costs by almost 90%. Also, LED lights provide almost 50,000 hours of lighting versus 4000 hours by incandescent bulbs. 
  • Opt For Automatic Cover- Automatic covers not only prevent debris from falling into the pool but also prevent any loss of heat/evaporation more efficiently than a windbreaker. More debris in your pool results in longer use of pumps to filter and clean the pool. 
  • Buy a Larger Filter- Another possible alternative to robotic cleaners is using large filters. They have a larger surface area allowing faster filtration. Faster filtration results in lower use of power and help cut costs.
  • Go For Pool Timers- Pool timers help you save energy by setting up a schedule. Pool timers switch off the power for the filtration system at a specific or set time. It can also be set for turning on and off at set intervals. It makes it easier to control pool maintenance and also saves energy.

Conclusion

There are several aspects that help in reducing the use of energy and help cut costs. Using energy-efficient pool tools is one of the important aspects to consider. However, it is essential to also plan your pool right at the start, keeping energy efficiency goals in your mind.

Owning a pool and maintaining it is an expensive affair. There are other factors that also kick in to ensure that your pool maintenance costs do not hit the roof. It is important to size your pool in accordance with your requirement, having too large a pool can increase the related costs. On the flip side, a smaller pool may not meet your requirements. Ensure that you size your pool as per your needs right at the start. A right-sized pool will ensure that you do not overuse energy and keep your cost in check. 

If you plan your pool from the start, you can design it in a way that achieves your overall goal of an energy-efficient pool. For example, having a darker finish pool helps absorb more sunlight during the day and helps your pool get warm naturally. Even if you do use the heater during the day, a darker pool will enable lower use of the heater due to its ability to absorb and hold warmth from sunlight.

It is best to move towards using solar power for your pool tools, wherever possible. The future is all about using clean energy and aligning yourself with using sustainable resources for your needs. 

Opt For Types Of Pool Equipment That Are Energy Efficient To Save Money

Conserving energy is not only good from a savings standpoint but also an essential means of displaying your concern and care for the environment. Using sustainable ways to maintain your pool to cut costs and go green is the way forward. Pools consume huge amounts of power. In fact, pool pumps are only second to air conditioners when it comes to consuming power. Most people use their pools around the year, especially the hi-tech fibreglass pools.

Too Much Energy Consumption

If you happen to live in a cold location, then in winter, pools are heated which leads to high power consumption. Consequently, it is a wise move to look at whatever options are available to consume lesser energy and cut down the pool maintenance costs. One of the essential areas which can help you cut costs and power consumption is by using newer technology pool equipment. Most people tend to use outdated pool equipment to save on capital or upfront investment. Nonetheless, by updating to newer technology, pool equipment can help you save energy and cut maintenance costs. For instance, all new fibreglass pools come with technology features that are current.

Updating To New Pool Equipment to Save Energy Consumption

To support decarbonization and help the world meet its goal of lowering emissions, it is important that everyone chips in globally. Using old pool equipment which is less energy efficient needs to be changed to newer and more efficient tools. These aid in cutting down your pool’s power consumption and you can continue to enjoy using the pool without having to worry about the power consumption.

By using the latest equipment, you save the environment and save on costs: 

  • Use a Variable Speed Pump or a Smaller Pump- If you are still using a large pump, then your energy costs will be high. It is important to check every couple of years for pumps with newer technology spelling efficiency. Any reduction in pool pump use leads to energy savings and cost reduction. A pump that has energy star ratings could save a considerable amount of energy and money. Variable pumps function at different RPMs, consuming less energy.  
  • Upgrade To a High-Efficiency Pool Heater- It is important to ensure that you are not overheating your pool or underheating. This is at the top among home pool tips to save energy and costs. Though the optimum temperature for heated pools is 78 degrees Fahrenheit, many people heat it up to 82-84 degrees Fahrenheit. Upgrading to a high-efficiency heater can help you save energy. High-efficiency heaters can go up to 90% efficiency and that would mean a lot of savings. Another option is to use solar-powered heaters which are ideal when it comes to having a sustainable pool.

Sustainable Lighting and Rapid Cleaning

You may not realise that your pool cleaning and lighting can change how you live:

  • Buy A Robotic Cleaner- Suction side cleaners or pressure side cleaners for pools use older technology and consume more power. A robotic cleaner functions with a self-contained filtration mechanism and consumes low-voltage power. The robotic cleaners are new technology and the upfront cost is higher. However, robotic cleaners for the pool are the most efficient in saving power. If you wish to continue using pressure pool cleaners, then upgrade to a variable speed pump to save energy and costs.  
  • Install LED Pool Lights- It is a well-known fact that LED lights consume less power and run for a longer period. An interesting fact is that LED uses less than 50 watts of energy versus the 300 watts required by incandescent old bulbs. It is important to make every possible change in your pool equipment to see a larger overall impact on energy savings. LED bulbs are known to cut power costs by almost 90%. Also, LED lights provide almost 50,000 hours of lighting versus 4000 hours by incandescent bulbs. 
  • Opt For Automatic Cover- Automatic covers not only prevent debris from falling into the pool but also prevent any loss of heat/evaporation more efficiently than a windbreaker. More debris in your pool results in longer use of pumps to filter and clean the pool. 
  • Buy a Larger Filter- Another possible alternative to robotic cleaners is using large filters. They have a larger surface area allowing faster filtration. Faster filtration results in lower use of power and help cut costs.
  • Go For Pool Timers- Pool timers help you save energy by setting up a schedule. Pool timers switch off the power for the filtration system at a specific or set time. It can also be set for turning on and off at set intervals. It makes it easier to control pool maintenance and also saves energy.

Conclusion

There are several aspects that help in reducing the use of energy and help cut costs. Using energy-efficient pool tools is one of the important aspects to consider. However, it is essential to also plan your pool right at the start, keeping energy efficiency goals in your mind.

Owning a pool and maintaining it is an expensive affair. There are other factors that also kick in to ensure that your pool maintenance costs do not hit the roof. It is important to size your pool in accordance with your requirement, having too large a pool can increase the related costs. On the flip side, a smaller pool may not meet your requirements. Ensure that you size your pool as per your needs right at the start. A right-sized pool will ensure that you do not overuse energy and keep your cost in check. 

If you plan your pool from the start, you can design it in a way that achieves your overall goal of an energy-efficient pool. For example, having a darker finish pool helps absorb more sunlight during the day and helps your pool get warm naturally. Even if you do use the heater during the day, a darker pool will enable lower use of the heater due to its ability to absorb and hold warmth from sunlight.

It is best to move towards using solar power for your pool tools, wherever possible. The future is all about using clean energy and aligning yourself with using sustainable resources for your needs. 

A Look At The Life Expectancy Of Your Pool Heater

Installing a pool heater is great for a home swimming pool. This investment will allow you to enjoy the pool year-round, irrespective of the weather. But regardless, pool heaters are a bit costly. This makes pool owners ask all kinds of questions about them, especially regarding their life expectancy. A propane or natural gas pool heater typically lasts between 7 to 12 years. But electric heaters last between 15-20 years, and solar heaters have a lifespan of about 20-30 years. There are a lot of factors affecting the lifespan of the pool heater, including the heater's quality, the climate of the area, the pool water chemistry, and the maintenance schedule.

Factors affecting the lifespan of your pool heater

The average lifespan of a pool heater is influenced by numerous factors. However, regular maintenance could lengthen the life of the pool heater. Some factors affecting the lifespan of your pool heater include:

Proper maintenance

Proper maintenance is a crucial factor that affects the lifespan of a pool heater. The maintenance should be conducted at least once a year. It is even beneficial to service the pool heater twice a year. During these maintenance visits, the heater is thoroughly inspected, and the equipment is greased, polished, and calibrated. The safety and performance of the equipment are also reviewed during maintenance. This routine maintenance plays an indispensable role in keeping your pool heater operational for a longer time.

In many cases, a little work will ensure that your heater stays in good condition even after the warranty has expired. To maintain proper ventilation, clear the heat pump’s surface of all branches, leaves, twigs, and similar debris. Keep the smoke detectors away from the heat pump in strategic places. This is to avoid inferior-quality water from getting into the heat pump and damaging its interior. Furthermore, it is better to hire a certified heat pump expert to perform regular maintenance on the system. These tasks often include cleaning the interior, checking the water flow, testing the electrical cables, and ensuring proper operation.

Water chemistry of your pool

Maintaining optimal pool water chemistry is necessary to keep the swimming pool clean, sparkly, and healthy. A chemically imbalanced pool is hazardous not only to the health of the swimmers but can wreak havoc on the pool equipment. Many people use a mix of chemical and organic substances to keep the chemistry of their pool water at an ideal level. Pool owners should check the water in their pool on a weekly basis to make sure it has an ideal balance, especially with regard to calcium and alkalinity.

Unregulated alkalinity in the pool water is a major concern. Combined with a lack of calcium, excess or insufficient acidity can cause the pool equipment to rust, reducing its lifespan. Furthermore, an excess of calcium can lead to plaque, which slows water flow. The easiest way to ensure that the swimming pool maintains proper chemical ratios is to conduct a weekly round of testing.

Having the perfect combination of chemicals in the pool can always increase the lifespan of the pool heater. Also, remember to drain the pool after one week to clear away the dirty pool water.

Be mindful of your heat exchanger

One element that significantly affects the life of the pool heater is the heat exchanger. Heat exchanger failure is a major factor in heat pump malfunctions. The exchanger, which is made up of a number of cupronickel or copper tubes, is susceptible to deterioration from the chemicals in pool water. Remove this unit, do a yearly inspection, and clean any debris and dust from the fins. Look for corrosion indicators. In case your pool heater needs to be replaced or you are looking to buy one for the first time, check for manufacturers who use titanium to make the heat exchangers. These heat exchangers are better equipped to resist damage caused by water.

The effects of engine issues

Proper wattage is another crucial issue that impacts the average lifespan of the pool heater. The pool heater is connected to the main electrical line since it needs electricity to operate. Suppose there is a shock or an interruption in the supply due to some problems, like a bad climate; the pool heater can be negatively affected. Similarly, if the pool heater is exposed to unexpected power troughs and peaks, such fluctuations could cause it to age quickly and damage it.

When should the pool heater be replaced?

Over the course of their lives, pool heaters endure a great deal of wear and tear. There are various indicators that show that they need to be replaced. Some of them include:

  • If everything appears to be operating normally but you are not getting hot water.
  • Sometimes, you may find rust and corrosion in the pool heater that is beyond repair when you open it. In such a case, it is better to replace the pool heater. Failure to address this could result in a fire risk or another potentially dangerous situation.
  • A noisy operation, including whistling, screeching, or rumbling noises, is an indication that the heater needs to be replaced.
  • Sometimes pool owners tend to neglect the heater due to their busy schedules, causing rodents to build their nests in it. Rodents chew on the wiring, destroying it. They can also cause the buildup of debris, including droppings or twigs, which can clog vital valves or pipelines.
  • If you see any fluid leakage from the pool heater, it is a common indication that the equipment has to be replaced. A mechanic has to look at this as early as possible.

Always consult a pool professional to determine whether the issue is truly irreparable before deciding to remove the complete system.

To Conclude

The lifespan of a pool heater is ultimately dependent on how diligently you maintain it. While solar and electric pool heaters have a longer life span, even gas heaters with a limited lifespan can run for a long time with proper maintenance. Always remember, the better maintained your equipment is, the longer you can enjoy relaxing pool sessions in warm, comforting water.

A Look At The Life Expectancy Of Your Pool Heater

Installing a pool heater is great for a home swimming pool. This investment will allow you to enjoy the pool year-round, irrespective of the weather. But regardless, pool heaters are a bit costly. This makes pool owners ask all kinds of questions about them, especially regarding their life expectancy. A propane or natural gas pool heater typically lasts between 7 to 12 years. But electric heaters last between 15-20 years, and solar heaters have a lifespan of about 20-30 years. There are a lot of factors affecting the lifespan of the pool heater, including the heater's quality, the climate of the area, the pool water chemistry, and the maintenance schedule.

Factors affecting the lifespan of your pool heater

The average lifespan of a pool heater is influenced by numerous factors. However, regular maintenance could lengthen the life of the pool heater. Some factors affecting the lifespan of your pool heater include:

Proper maintenance

Proper maintenance is a crucial factor that affects the lifespan of a pool heater. The maintenance should be conducted at least once a year. It is even beneficial to service the pool heater twice a year. During these maintenance visits, the heater is thoroughly inspected, and the equipment is greased, polished, and calibrated. The safety and performance of the equipment are also reviewed during maintenance. This routine maintenance plays an indispensable role in keeping your pool heater operational for a longer time.

In many cases, a little work will ensure that your heater stays in good condition even after the warranty has expired. To maintain proper ventilation, clear the heat pump’s surface of all branches, leaves, twigs, and similar debris. Keep the smoke detectors away from the heat pump in strategic places. This is to avoid inferior-quality water from getting into the heat pump and damaging its interior. Furthermore, it is better to hire a certified heat pump expert to perform regular maintenance on the system. These tasks often include cleaning the interior, checking the water flow, testing the electrical cables, and ensuring proper operation.

Water chemistry of your pool

Maintaining optimal pool water chemistry is necessary to keep the swimming pool clean, sparkly, and healthy. A chemically imbalanced pool is hazardous not only to the health of the swimmers but can wreak havoc on the pool equipment. Many people use a mix of chemical and organic substances to keep the chemistry of their pool water at an ideal level. Pool owners should check the water in their pool on a weekly basis to make sure it has an ideal balance, especially with regard to calcium and alkalinity.

Unregulated alkalinity in the pool water is a major concern. Combined with a lack of calcium, excess or insufficient acidity can cause the pool equipment to rust, reducing its lifespan. Furthermore, an excess of calcium can lead to plaque, which slows water flow. The easiest way to ensure that the swimming pool maintains proper chemical ratios is to conduct a weekly round of testing.

Having the perfect combination of chemicals in the pool can always increase the lifespan of the pool heater. Also, remember to drain the pool after one week to clear away the dirty pool water.

Be mindful of your heat exchanger

One element that significantly affects the life of the pool heater is the heat exchanger. Heat exchanger failure is a major factor in heat pump malfunctions. The exchanger, which is made up of a number of cupronickel or copper tubes, is susceptible to deterioration from the chemicals in pool water. Remove this unit, do a yearly inspection, and clean any debris and dust from the fins. Look for corrosion indicators. In case your pool heater needs to be replaced or you are looking to buy one for the first time, check for manufacturers who use titanium to make the heat exchangers. These heat exchangers are better equipped to resist damage caused by water.

The effects of engine issues

Proper wattage is another crucial issue that impacts the average lifespan of the pool heater. The pool heater is connected to the main electrical line since it needs electricity to operate. Suppose there is a shock or an interruption in the supply due to some problems, like a bad climate; the pool heater can be negatively affected. Similarly, if the pool heater is exposed to unexpected power troughs and peaks, such fluctuations could cause it to age quickly and damage it.

When should the pool heater be replaced?

Over the course of their lives, pool heaters endure a great deal of wear and tear. There are various indicators that show that they need to be replaced. Some of them include:

  • If everything appears to be operating normally but you are not getting hot water.
  • Sometimes, you may find rust and corrosion in the pool heater that is beyond repair when you open it. In such a case, it is better to replace the pool heater. Failure to address this could result in a fire risk or another potentially dangerous situation.
  • A noisy operation, including whistling, screeching, or rumbling noises, is an indication that the heater needs to be replaced.
  • Sometimes pool owners tend to neglect the heater due to their busy schedules, causing rodents to build their nests in it. Rodents chew on the wiring, destroying it. They can also cause the buildup of debris, including droppings or twigs, which can clog vital valves or pipelines.
  • If you see any fluid leakage from the pool heater, it is a common indication that the equipment has to be replaced. A mechanic has to look at this as early as possible.

Always consult a pool professional to determine whether the issue is truly irreparable before deciding to remove the complete system.

To Conclude

The lifespan of a pool heater is ultimately dependent on how diligently you maintain it. While solar and electric pool heaters have a longer life span, even gas heaters with a limited lifespan can run for a long time with proper maintenance. Always remember, the better maintained your equipment is, the longer you can enjoy relaxing pool sessions in warm, comforting water.

Tips For Naturally Reducing The Pool Water Temperature During Summer

When it's summer, you probably want to cool down in your fibreglass pool. But sometimes, the weather can get so hot that entering your pool can feel like entering warm bathwater. The good news is that there are several things that you can do to keep the water in your fibreglass pool cool. Here are some ways to naturally cool down the temperature of the water in your fibreglass pool.

What Can You Do To Cool Down The Water In Your Pool?

On average, common fibreglass pools generally store at least 10,000 gallons of water. It can take time for this much water to cool down, so note that it will take time to naturally cool down the water in your fibreglass pool. With that said, here’s what you can do to keep the water in your fibreglass pool cool.

Get Poolside Shading

Your fibreglass pool has a large surface area, and this surface constantly has to deal with the heat from the Sun being directly cast on it. If you’ve ever stood out in the Sun for a few minutes during summer, you probably know how hot it can get. Now imagine the same thing happening to your pool, throughout the day. It’ll make the pool water very warm.

The most effective way of keeping the water in your pool cool is by installing poolside shading. You can get either your whole pool covered or just a part of it. But the part of the pool that is covered, will be cooler. There are a few ways you can get pool shading.

You can use shade sails, pergolas, parasols, as well as enclosures. No matter what your budget is, you’re likely to find something that meets your needs. If you want to make use of vegetation to cover your pool, then this could take time to develop. You can consider approaching a landscape designer to help you with the process.

Water Features

If you don’t mind spending a little extra money to keep the water in your fibreglass pool cool, then consider getting water features. This is another super effective way of keeping the temperature of the water in your pool cool. You can get a fountain or even a waterfall. The water feature you get should keep the water in your pool moving, thus promoting evaporation.

Anytime water evaporates, it turns to gas, and in the process, ends up losing heat. This is also why when you place a towel that’s damp on your face or on your head on a hot day, you feel cool.

The water features don’t need to be left running all the time. To keep your pool cool using this method, you only need to run your water features through the night. This method isn’t as effective during the day as it is during the night.

You should note, however, that not only is this option pricey, but it can take time to install a water feature as well. If you’re still considering whether you should get a fibreglass pool installed or not, then getting your water features installed alongside your pool is ideal. But you can get them installed later as well.

Use Solar Panels

Yes, it’s possible for you to use solar panels to keep the water in your pool cool. During the day, a pump will be running the water from your pool through solar panels. These solar panels will be getting sunlight. This sunlight will heat the solar panels. Then, this heat is transferred to the water. At night, the opposite happens. Keeping on top of your swimming pool water can also aid in naturally reducing the temperature of the water.

The part around your roof, where you’re likely to install your solar panels, is cooler than the area around your pool, at night. The water that’s being passed through solar panels at night, is exposed to air that is colder than the air on the ground. This helps in cooling down the water in your fibreglass pool at night.

While this method is effective, it can only keep the water in your pool as cool as the surrounding temperature. Your pool water will be cooler, but not by much.

Draining The Pool

Another way to cool down the water in your fibreglass pool is by manually draining some of the water out, and then replacing it with cold water. But for this trick to work, the water that you’re replacing your pool water with needs to be colder. If the water you’re refilling the pool with is of the same temperature as the water already in the pool, you won’t notice much of a difference.

When you use this option, you’ll also need to check your water chemistry to know whether it’s balanced or not. This technique may not be as effective as many of the other techniques, simply because you’ll be wasting so much water. While it’s good for an emergency, it doesn’t significantly change the temperature of your pool, unless you add water that’s much colder. You can also add significantly large amounts of ice, to cool down the water in your pool, if you’re in a hurry.

Pool Chillers

Another way to keep the water in your pool cool is by investing in a pool chiller. A pool chiller makes use of fans which help in cooling down the water, as it travels through the chiller. There are pool chillers that claim that when used overnight, the temperature of the pool water can drop significantly. Depending on what size your pool is, this can be true.

But pool chillers are also more expensive than many of the other options on this list. If you don’t want to get a pool chiller, then you can use a heat pump to keep the water in your pool cool as well. This is as heat pumps come with reverse functions which help cool the water instead of heating it. Heat pumps are even more expensive than pool chillers. If you don’t already have a pool pump installed, and are only looking to cool your pool, then a pool chiller might be the better option.

Conclusion

There are several ways you can keep the water in your fibreglass pool cool. You can use water features or install some pool shades. You can even use solar panels or install a pool chiller. Depending on how cool you want your pool to be, and how large your pool is, there are many options available to you. This guide will help you learn what these options are.

In summer, the pool water is bound to increase in the temperature due to the heat of the sun. If you want to take a dip in the water, you won’t want to do it if the water is too hot.

It depends on the type of poolside shading you choose to get. A typical shadesail can cost a few grand to purchase and install, however more specialised one that retracts can cost close to ten grand for a good one.

Tips For Naturally Reducing The Pool Water Temperature During Summer

When it's summer, you probably want to cool down in your fibreglass pool. But sometimes, the weather can get so hot that entering your pool can feel like entering warm bathwater. The good news is that there are several things that you can do to keep the water in your fibreglass pool cool. Here are some ways to naturally cool down the temperature of the water in your fibreglass pool.

What Can You Do To Cool Down The Water In Your Pool?

On average, common fibreglass pools generally store at least 10,000 gallons of water. It can take time for this much water to cool down, so note that it will take time to naturally cool down the water in your fibreglass pool. With that said, here’s what you can do to keep the water in your fibreglass pool cool.

Get Poolside Shading

Your fibreglass pool has a large surface area, and this surface constantly has to deal with the heat from the Sun being directly cast on it. If you’ve ever stood out in the Sun for a few minutes during summer, you probably know how hot it can get. Now imagine the same thing happening to your pool, throughout the day. It’ll make the pool water very warm.

The most effective way of keeping the water in your pool cool is by installing poolside shading. You can get either your whole pool covered or just a part of it. But the part of the pool that is covered, will be cooler. There are a few ways you can get pool shading.

You can use shade sails, pergolas, parasols, as well as enclosures. No matter what your budget is, you’re likely to find something that meets your needs. If you want to make use of vegetation to cover your pool, then this could take time to develop. You can consider approaching a landscape designer to help you with the process.

Water Features

If you don’t mind spending a little extra money to keep the water in your fibreglass pool cool, then consider getting water features. This is another super effective way of keeping the temperature of the water in your pool cool. You can get a fountain or even a waterfall. The water feature you get should keep the water in your pool moving, thus promoting evaporation.

Anytime water evaporates, it turns to gas, and in the process, ends up losing heat. This is also why when you place a towel that’s damp on your face or on your head on a hot day, you feel cool.

The water features don’t need to be left running all the time. To keep your pool cool using this method, you only need to run your water features through the night. This method isn’t as effective during the day as it is during the night.

You should note, however, that not only is this option pricey, but it can take time to install a water feature as well. If you’re still considering whether you should get a fibreglass pool installed or not, then getting your water features installed alongside your pool is ideal. But you can get them installed later as well.

Use Solar Panels

Yes, it’s possible for you to use solar panels to keep the water in your pool cool. During the day, a pump will be running the water from your pool through solar panels. These solar panels will be getting sunlight. This sunlight will heat the solar panels. Then, this heat is transferred to the water. At night, the opposite happens. Keeping on top of your swimming pool water can also aid in naturally reducing the temperature of the water.

The part around your roof, where you’re likely to install your solar panels, is cooler than the area around your pool, at night. The water that’s being passed through solar panels at night, is exposed to air that is colder than the air on the ground. This helps in cooling down the water in your fibreglass pool at night.

While this method is effective, it can only keep the water in your pool as cool as the surrounding temperature. Your pool water will be cooler, but not by much.

Draining The Pool

Another way to cool down the water in your fibreglass pool is by manually draining some of the water out, and then replacing it with cold water. But for this trick to work, the water that you’re replacing your pool water with needs to be colder. If the water you’re refilling the pool with is of the same temperature as the water already in the pool, you won’t notice much of a difference.

When you use this option, you’ll also need to check your water chemistry to know whether it’s balanced or not. This technique may not be as effective as many of the other techniques, simply because you’ll be wasting so much water. While it’s good for an emergency, it doesn’t significantly change the temperature of your pool, unless you add water that’s much colder. You can also add significantly large amounts of ice, to cool down the water in your pool, if you’re in a hurry.

Pool Chillers

Another way to keep the water in your pool cool is by investing in a pool chiller. A pool chiller makes use of fans which help in cooling down the water, as it travels through the chiller. There are pool chillers that claim that when used overnight, the temperature of the pool water can drop significantly. Depending on what size your pool is, this can be true.

But pool chillers are also more expensive than many of the other options on this list. If you don’t want to get a pool chiller, then you can use a heat pump to keep the water in your pool cool as well. This is as heat pumps come with reverse functions which help cool the water instead of heating it. Heat pumps are even more expensive than pool chillers. If you don’t already have a pool pump installed, and are only looking to cool your pool, then a pool chiller might be the better option.

Conclusion

There are several ways you can keep the water in your fibreglass pool cool. You can use water features or install some pool shades. You can even use solar panels or install a pool chiller. Depending on how cool you want your pool to be, and how large your pool is, there are many options available to you. This guide will help you learn what these options are.

In summer, the pool water is bound to increase in the temperature due to the heat of the sun. If you want to take a dip in the water, you won’t want to do it if the water is too hot.

It depends on the type of poolside shading you choose to get. A typical shadesail can cost a few grand to purchase and install, however more specialised one that retracts can cost close to ten grand for a good one.

Blowing Out Pool Lines - DIY Or Call A Professional

Pool lines can tend to get clogged up over time, which is why it is recommended to call a professional if you want to get them removed. If you choose to do this yourself, it's important that you're as prepared as possible for what will actually happen. So let's look at some of the steps involved in blowing out your pool lines and see how much time it'll take.

Why blow out pool lines?

Blowing out pool lines is one of the most important things you can do to keep your pool running smoothly. Blowing out a line will remove debris, contaminants and other impurities that can build up in the line causing problems with water flow or even leaks.

The good news is that blowing out a line only takes about an hour, so it’s something you can do yourself if you have time on your hands!

Preparation to blow out the pool lines

Here are some tips that will help you prepare to blow out the pool lines:

  • Make sure the pool is empty and clean. If you have a skimmer basket that needs to be cleaned out, do so now.
  • Check for leaks in your plumbing system by taking a torch down each line. Look for water leaking from it or from around its connection point with another pipe or piece of equipment (like a pump).
  • If there are any signs of leaking pipes, check them over again before starting work on blowing out lines. It’s possible someone may have forgotten about an old patch job that still needs replacing! This can be especially frustrating when we’re dealing with metal equipment like pumps or valves that don’t show up well under normal lighting conditions. Remember to look at both sides of these components when inspecting them closely!
  • You might want to consider draining off some water from inside the pool so that you can better see what needs fixing first.

Equipment needed to blow out pool lines yourself

If you decide to blow out your pool lines yourself, a few tools will be necessary. You will need:

  • A pool vacuum
  • A pool brush
  • A net (or two) to catch any debris that may fall into the water while blowing out the lines. This could include leaves and twigs, as well as other small objects that can get sucked up by the vacuum. If this is done too quickly, it could cause damage to your pump or filter system.
  • An optional piece of equipment is a fish net that hangs over the top of the skimmer basket so debris doesn’t clog its intake area. The best option here would be one with suction cups at each end so they can easily attach themselves onto any surface area within reach–including walls! Another advantage of using these types of nets is that they allow for quick access. If something gets stuck in there during operation time, then simply removing the said item from inside won’t take very long at all!

Blowing out pool lines

The suction side

  • Use a hose with a nozzle attachment.
  • Make sure you have enough water pressure.
  • Use a pool vacuum to suck out debris from the suction side of your pool as well as any other places where debris may have been collected. This can be around your skimmer basket or pump intake tube (if applicable). It’s also important not to forget about vacuuming out any leaves that may have fallen into your pool. They will decrease its surface area and create algae growth problems later down the road!
  • Brush off the walls of your swimming pool with an electric broom until it looks clean again. This will remove any dirt stuck in crevices or cracks where it can’t be seen easily by hand scrubbing alone.

The equipment

The equipment used to clean pool lines is a combination of a vacuum and a hose. This can be purchased from your local hardware store, or you may have one in your home already (if so, great!).

Vacuum: You should purchase an electric-powered vacuum cleaner that has attachments for cleaning both sides of the hose at once. Using this type of machine is much easier than using manual vacuums because it automatically sucks dirt particles back into its base. This prevents them from blowing around inside the pool area and into other areas, such as windows and buildings nearby.

Hose: Your next step will be connecting this new electronic piece of equipment with its corresponding cleaning tool. This process involves connecting each end of the hose directly to either side’s male connector piece. Be sure not only that each end fits snugly but also that there isn’t any unnecessary slack present between them. If there were two inches too much space between two pipes, then water could leak out easily.

The best time of year to blow out your pool lines

The best time of year to blow out your pool lines is during the spring and fall. The pool is not in use, so it’s a good time to do it.

The weather conditions are usually dry during these seasons, which means less risk of damage to the surface of your pool. It also makes it easier for you to blow out all of those pesky little line things!

It's usually better to call in a professional for this kind of work

When it comes to pool cleaning, the professionals know what they’re doing. They have the right equipment and know how to avoid damaging your pool or pipes in the process. They can do it faster and more efficiently than you can—so it’s recommended that you don’t try this at home by yourself!

Conclusion

We hope that this article has given you some good advice on how to blow out your pool lines. If you’re still not sure, or if you want to learn more about pool maintenance, it’s best to contact a professional. It might cost you more, but the most important thing is that your pool is clean and safe for swimming!

Blowing Out Pool Lines - DIY Or Call A Professional

Pool lines can tend to get clogged up over time, which is why it is recommended to call a professional if you want to get them removed. If you choose to do this yourself, it's important that you're as prepared as possible for what will actually happen. So let's look at some of the steps involved in blowing out your pool lines and see how much time it'll take.

Why blow out pool lines?

Blowing out pool lines is one of the most important things you can do to keep your pool running smoothly. Blowing out a line will remove debris, contaminants and other impurities that can build up in the line causing problems with water flow or even leaks.

The good news is that blowing out a line only takes about an hour, so it’s something you can do yourself if you have time on your hands!

Preparation to blow out the pool lines

Here are some tips that will help you prepare to blow out the pool lines:

  • Make sure the pool is empty and clean. If you have a skimmer basket that needs to be cleaned out, do so now.
  • Check for leaks in your plumbing system by taking a torch down each line. Look for water leaking from it or from around its connection point with another pipe or piece of equipment (like a pump).
  • If there are any signs of leaking pipes, check them over again before starting work on blowing out lines. It’s possible someone may have forgotten about an old patch job that still needs replacing! This can be especially frustrating when we’re dealing with metal equipment like pumps or valves that don’t show up well under normal lighting conditions. Remember to look at both sides of these components when inspecting them closely!
  • You might want to consider draining off some water from inside the pool so that you can better see what needs fixing first.

Equipment needed to blow out pool lines yourself

If you decide to blow out your pool lines yourself, a few tools will be necessary. You will need:

  • A pool vacuum
  • A pool brush
  • A net (or two) to catch any debris that may fall into the water while blowing out the lines. This could include leaves and twigs, as well as other small objects that can get sucked up by the vacuum. If this is done too quickly, it could cause damage to your pump or filter system.
  • An optional piece of equipment is a fish net that hangs over the top of the skimmer basket so debris doesn’t clog its intake area. The best option here would be one with suction cups at each end so they can easily attach themselves onto any surface area within reach–including walls! Another advantage of using these types of nets is that they allow for quick access. If something gets stuck in there during operation time, then simply removing the said item from inside won’t take very long at all!

Blowing out pool lines

The suction side

  • Use a hose with a nozzle attachment.
  • Make sure you have enough water pressure.
  • Use a pool vacuum to suck out debris from the suction side of your pool as well as any other places where debris may have been collected. This can be around your skimmer basket or pump intake tube (if applicable). It’s also important not to forget about vacuuming out any leaves that may have fallen into your pool. They will decrease its surface area and create algae growth problems later down the road!
  • Brush off the walls of your swimming pool with an electric broom until it looks clean again. This will remove any dirt stuck in crevices or cracks where it can’t be seen easily by hand scrubbing alone.

The equipment

The equipment used to clean pool lines is a combination of a vacuum and a hose. This can be purchased from your local hardware store, or you may have one in your home already (if so, great!).

Vacuum: You should purchase an electric-powered vacuum cleaner that has attachments for cleaning both sides of the hose at once. Using this type of machine is much easier than using manual vacuums because it automatically sucks dirt particles back into its base. This prevents them from blowing around inside the pool area and into other areas, such as windows and buildings nearby.

Hose: Your next step will be connecting this new electronic piece of equipment with its corresponding cleaning tool. This process involves connecting each end of the hose directly to either side’s male connector piece. Be sure not only that each end fits snugly but also that there isn’t any unnecessary slack present between them. If there were two inches too much space between two pipes, then water could leak out easily.

The best time of year to blow out your pool lines

The best time of year to blow out your pool lines is during the spring and fall. The pool is not in use, so it’s a good time to do it.

The weather conditions are usually dry during these seasons, which means less risk of damage to the surface of your pool. It also makes it easier for you to blow out all of those pesky little line things!

It's usually better to call in a professional for this kind of work

When it comes to pool cleaning, the professionals know what they’re doing. They have the right equipment and know how to avoid damaging your pool or pipes in the process. They can do it faster and more efficiently than you can—so it’s recommended that you don’t try this at home by yourself!

Conclusion

We hope that this article has given you some good advice on how to blow out your pool lines. If you’re still not sure, or if you want to learn more about pool maintenance, it’s best to contact a professional. It might cost you more, but the most important thing is that your pool is clean and safe for swimming!

How Can You Backwash Your Pool Filter?

Your pool filter is responsible for catching the contaminants that are neutralized by the chlorine you add to your fibreglass pool. This is an important part of the circulation system of the pool and helps ensure the water in the pool is clean and sparkling.

You can think of the pool filter as the vacuum of the swimming pool. It's responsible for picking up dirt as well as debris. Everything is then held inside it. If this continues, then the pool filter will reach a point where it can't suck in anything else. This is when you'll need to switch the bag out from the pool filter.
You can think of the pool filter as the vacuum of the swimming pool. It's responsible for picking up dirt as well as debris. Everything is then held inside it. If this continues, then the pool filter will reach a point where it can't suck in anything else. This is when you'll need to switch the bag out from the pool filter.
The good thing about backwashing your pool filter is that you won't have to touch a lot of the gunk that comes out. Backwashing is a process every fibreglass pool owner should know about. You should know when it's time to backwash, what you need in order to do it, as well as how you can actually do it.
The good thing about backwashing your pool filter is that you won't have to touch a lot of the gunk that comes out. Backwashing is a process every fibreglass pool owner should know about. You should know when it's time to backwash, what you need in order to do it, as well as how you can actually do it.

What Does Backwashing Your Pool Filter Mean?

Backwashing a pool filter is essentially the act of cleaning the filter out, by getting rid of the gunk that has accumulated. When you backwash your pool filter, what you’re doing is reversing the direction the water flows in. The water is pushed through the back of the pool filter. It heads towards the drain port and escapes from there.

You should also know what kind of pool filter will be right for your fibreglass pool. If you have a cartridge filter, then backwashing is not right for your pool. Backwashing only works on sand filters and diatomaceous earth filters. These filters collect waste and contaminants by utilising edges that are sharp. As the contaminants start to pile up, the filter will become less and less efficient at doing its job.

This is even if you find that the sharp edges in the pool filter haven’t become smooth. The pressure within the filter will continue to ramp up. When you backwash your pool filter, you are cleaning out your filter without picking through the sand or the D.E. This way, you could also maintain the longevity of your filter. Keep in mind though, that you will need to replace your filter eventually.

When Should You Backwash Your Pool Filter?

Pool filters usually have a pressure gauge. When your fibreglass pool is being installed, note where the pressure gauge is. The number you see is the normal filter pressure range when it’s operating. As you keep using your pool filter, the psi you see in the pressure gauge will continue to increase. This is normal and there isn’t anything to worry about. Here is more information on how to properly maintain your pool.

The more contaminants your filter traps, the better it will be able to perform. However, this convenience won’t continue forever. Eventually, the space in your pool filter will be so crammed that it will no longer be able to trap any contaminants. When you see that the filter operating pressure has reached 10 psi over what the normal operating pressure you noted was, it’s time to backwash your filter.

What Do You Need In Order To Backwash Your Pool Filter?

The only thing you really need in order to backwash your pool filter is a normal backwashing hose. In case you have a D.E. filter, you may want to keep a little extra D.E. around. This is in case you need to refill your filter. People with D.E. filters usually have a little D.E. lying around.

How Can You Use A Multiport Valve To Backwash Your Pool Filter?

Do you have a multiport valve? If you do, then use these steps to backwash your pool filter. Remember that when you turn your multiport valve on, the filter should be turned off.

  1. The first thing you should do is turn off your filtration system. Nothing should be running at this moment.
  2. Then, the backwash hose will need to be connected to the waste port of the filter. This is where the backwash will soon actually take place.
  3. Now, set the multiport valve to ‘Backwash’.
  4. When you’ve done this, turn your filter system back on. Leave it for around two minutes. By this point, you have started the backwashing process.
  5. Now turn your filtration system off again. After this, set your multiport valve to the ‘Rinse’ option.
  6. Then turn the filtration system back on again and allow it to run for a minute.
  7. Now turn the filtration system off again.
  8. After this, return the multiport valve back to the ‘Filter’ position.

How Can You Use A Push-Pull Valve In Order To Backwash Your Pool Filter?

You could also have a push-pull valve. In this case, use the following steps to backwash your pool filter.

  1. First, you’ll need to turn off your filtration system. For both kinds of valves, your filtration system should first be turned off.
  2. Now, connect the backwash hose to the backwash port of the filter. This is the place where the backwashing will really happen.
  3. Now, you’ll need to open your backwash gate.
  4. After this, the filtration system should be turned on again, and left for around three minutes.
  5. Now turn the filtration system off again.
  6. Finally, close the push-pull valve.

How Do You Get Rid Of The Gunk?

Do you think that you can push the gunk that came out from backwashing your pool filter down the storm drain? Local governments generally do not support this, and you could find yourself needing to pay a fine if you do this.

So can you throw the gunk away in your septic system? This is also a no-no. If you do this, your septic system could experience a system failure. What local authorities would suggest is that you collect your backwash water, contain it, and then discharge it at a sanitary sewer. A sanitary sewer is different from a septic system or a storm drain. It’s a vegetated area located within your property.

The regulations can change depending on where you live, so make sure you do your research regarding how to dispose of the gunk.

Conclusion

Backwashing your pool filter is an important step in fibreglass pool maintenance. How you backwash your pool filter will depend on the kind of valve you have. Use this guide to learn how you can backwash your pool filter.

How Can You Backwash Your Pool Filter?

Your pool filter is responsible for catching the contaminants that are neutralized by the chlorine you add to your fibreglass pool. This is an important part of the circulation system of the pool and helps ensure the water in the pool is clean and sparkling.

You can think of the pool filter as the vacuum of the swimming pool. It's responsible for picking up dirt as well as debris. Everything is then held inside it. If this continues, then the pool filter will reach a point where it can't suck in anything else. This is when you'll need to switch the bag out from the pool filter.
You can think of the pool filter as the vacuum of the swimming pool. It's responsible for picking up dirt as well as debris. Everything is then held inside it. If this continues, then the pool filter will reach a point where it can't suck in anything else. This is when you'll need to switch the bag out from the pool filter.
The good thing about backwashing your pool filter is that you won't have to touch a lot of the gunk that comes out. Backwashing is a process every fibreglass pool owner should know about. You should know when it's time to backwash, what you need in order to do it, as well as how you can actually do it.
The good thing about backwashing your pool filter is that you won't have to touch a lot of the gunk that comes out. Backwashing is a process every fibreglass pool owner should know about. You should know when it's time to backwash, what you need in order to do it, as well as how you can actually do it.

What Does Backwashing Your Pool Filter Mean?

Backwashing a pool filter is essentially the act of cleaning the filter out, by getting rid of the gunk that has accumulated. When you backwash your pool filter, what you’re doing is reversing the direction the water flows in. The water is pushed through the back of the pool filter. It heads towards the drain port and escapes from there.

You should also know what kind of pool filter will be right for your fibreglass pool. If you have a cartridge filter, then backwashing is not right for your pool. Backwashing only works on sand filters and diatomaceous earth filters. These filters collect waste and contaminants by utilising edges that are sharp. As the contaminants start to pile up, the filter will become less and less efficient at doing its job.

This is even if you find that the sharp edges in the pool filter haven’t become smooth. The pressure within the filter will continue to ramp up. When you backwash your pool filter, you are cleaning out your filter without picking through the sand or the D.E. This way, you could also maintain the longevity of your filter. Keep in mind though, that you will need to replace your filter eventually.

When Should You Backwash Your Pool Filter?

Pool filters usually have a pressure gauge. When your fibreglass pool is being installed, note where the pressure gauge is. The number you see is the normal filter pressure range when it’s operating. As you keep using your pool filter, the psi you see in the pressure gauge will continue to increase. This is normal and there isn’t anything to worry about. Here is more information on how to properly maintain your pool.

The more contaminants your filter traps, the better it will be able to perform. However, this convenience won’t continue forever. Eventually, the space in your pool filter will be so crammed that it will no longer be able to trap any contaminants. When you see that the filter operating pressure has reached 10 psi over what the normal operating pressure you noted was, it’s time to backwash your filter.

What Do You Need In Order To Backwash Your Pool Filter?

The only thing you really need in order to backwash your pool filter is a normal backwashing hose. In case you have a D.E. filter, you may want to keep a little extra D.E. around. This is in case you need to refill your filter. People with D.E. filters usually have a little D.E. lying around.

How Can You Use A Multiport Valve To Backwash Your Pool Filter?

Do you have a multiport valve? If you do, then use these steps to backwash your pool filter. Remember that when you turn your multiport valve on, the filter should be turned off.

  1. The first thing you should do is turn off your filtration system. Nothing should be running at this moment.
  2. Then, the backwash hose will need to be connected to the waste port of the filter. This is where the backwash will soon actually take place.
  3. Now, set the multiport valve to ‘Backwash’.
  4. When you’ve done this, turn your filter system back on. Leave it for around two minutes. By this point, you have started the backwashing process.
  5. Now turn your filtration system off again. After this, set your multiport valve to the ‘Rinse’ option.
  6. Then turn the filtration system back on again and allow it to run for a minute.
  7. Now turn the filtration system off again.
  8. After this, return the multiport valve back to the ‘Filter’ position.

How Can You Use A Push-Pull Valve In Order To Backwash Your Pool Filter?

You could also have a push-pull valve. In this case, use the following steps to backwash your pool filter.

  1. First, you’ll need to turn off your filtration system. For both kinds of valves, your filtration system should first be turned off.
  2. Now, connect the backwash hose to the backwash port of the filter. This is the place where the backwashing will really happen.
  3. Now, you’ll need to open your backwash gate.
  4. After this, the filtration system should be turned on again, and left for around three minutes.
  5. Now turn the filtration system off again.
  6. Finally, close the push-pull valve.

How Do You Get Rid Of The Gunk?

Do you think that you can push the gunk that came out from backwashing your pool filter down the storm drain? Local governments generally do not support this, and you could find yourself needing to pay a fine if you do this.

So can you throw the gunk away in your septic system? This is also a no-no. If you do this, your septic system could experience a system failure. What local authorities would suggest is that you collect your backwash water, contain it, and then discharge it at a sanitary sewer. A sanitary sewer is different from a septic system or a storm drain. It’s a vegetated area located within your property.

The regulations can change depending on where you live, so make sure you do your research regarding how to dispose of the gunk.

Conclusion

Backwashing your pool filter is an important step in fibreglass pool maintenance. How you backwash your pool filter will depend on the kind of valve you have. Use this guide to learn how you can backwash your pool filter.

Swimming Pool Ladder Maintenance Tips

If you own a swimming pool, the pool ladder is an element you cannot live without. This is a necessary piece of equipment that makes it possible for people of all ages to enter and exit the pool without any issues. Additionally, its purpose goes beyond merely enhancing user convenience. The pool ladder also serves as a safety component that is fitted to speed up emergency evacuations.

Pool ladders come in several materials. But the most common materials used to make pool ladders are plastic and stainless steel. Your pool ladder can be affected by numerous kinds of stains. These include organic stains, mineral stains, and animal stains. Organic stains are greenish-brown in colour and are caused by algae blooms, leaves, or mulch. The colour of mineral stains depends on the metal causing the staining. Copper and iron stains have an orange-brownish colour, and calcium stains are almost colourless. Animal stains are caused by small animals or insects.

Cleaning plastic pool ladders

There are numerous methods you can employ to clean pool ladders made of plastic. The most important thing to remember while cleaning is to avoid messing up the pool water chemistry during the cleaning process. Some methods for cleaning plastic pool ladders include:

Magic eraser and chlorine bleach

Animal and vegetable stains are the easiest to remove. So, this approach works well for them. However, remember not to apply too much as this may lead to the development of further stains. The Magic Eraser sponges work well for removing stains off pool steps. You need a little bleach because magic erasers do not have any in them. Reduce the pool water level before you start cleaning to avoid excessive chlorine from mixing with the pool water. In this way, you will also be able to properly clean the steps. Pour the bleach on the sponge and start scrubbing. You need not scrub too hard to remove the stains, as animal and vegetable stains are not too stubborn. If you also want to clean your pool liner, avoid using bleach and use only your sponge.

Check out where your backyard is suitable for a  swimming pool!

Ascorbic acid

Mineral stains are difficult to remove completely without the help of acid of some kind. Ascorbic acid can help with mineral stains because it is quite efficient and frequently starts working right away. Too much scrubbing is not needed when you are using ascorbic acid. You should also use it in small amounts to avoid abrasions. Make sure to carefully read the directions given in the packages before you use ascorbic acid or similar chemicals. Use the appropriate amount of chemical to get the desired result. You should also follow the cleaning instructions without making any mistakes.

Check out our complete pool maintenance checklist!

To begin with, reduce the level of chlorine to 2 ppm. You can also do this by simply not adding chlorine for about a week. After that, reduce the pH to between 7.0 and 7.4. Next, add around 250 to 500 grams of the acid to about 1000 gallons of the swimming pool water. If you add too much, the chlorine in the pool will not last for long. If the stubborn stains do not come up, wait 24 hours and then add more.

Put two portions of a metal sequestrant into the pool after one hour to remove the metals. Although it may appear a bit cloudy initially, your pool will become clear soon. After that, add polyquat to prevent algae bloom.

You must consistently increase the chlorine levels over the next few days to ensure that the stains don’t reappear.

See our pool cleaner guide!

Vitamin C tablet

A major component of Vitamin C tablets is ascorbic acid. This acid is present in numerous pool cleaning chemicals. The pool steps are a smaller and more isolated area, so this technique works well for cleaning them. This is also an excellent approach to determine if the steps have mineral stains. The tablets are readily available and reasonably priced. The cleaning procedure is also extremely easy to understand and follow.

If possible, lower the water level of your swimming pool to reach the steps more easily. This will also allow you to clean without messing up the pool water chemistry during the cleaning process. Rub the discoloured regions with Vitamin C tablets. It should be simple and quick to remove the stain. You will see white splotches during this stage. You can keep using the tablets if the stains are coming off easily. This is an indication that the culprit is a metal stain.

In case you have a lot of stains, you may not want to apply the tablets to each one individually. Simply distribute a handful of tablets evenly around the pool and the steps and allow them to dissolve into the pool water. For places that are tricky to reach, use a sock filled with tablets and scrub the stains. Be gentle to avoid damaging your pool liner.

View whether fibreglass pool can be saltwater!

Cleaning stainless steel ladders

How fast the stainless steel pool ladders and rails begin to discolour depends on a number of factors, including the location of the pool and the chlorinator it uses. Stainless steel ladders and rails are cleaned on a daily and weekly basis.

Daily cleaning

Every day, use fresh water to rinse your pool rails. This will remove all the smudges and stains that may have happened when you held the rails.

Here are the many benefits of a swimming pool cabana!

Weekly cleaning

Use mild soap and warm, fresh water to clean all surfaces. Gently scrub tough stains using a soft, clean cloth. After scrubbing, rinse well with water. Using a soft and dry cloth, fully dry the area. For additional protection, spread a thin coating of premium automotive wax on the stainless steel surface. Use a nylon brush to scrub away any rust or stains that are visible.

Avoid using steel wool, abrasive cleaners, and chloride-containing cleaning products. These chemicals will harm the surface, making it more prone to corrosion and discolouration.

Here is our informative guide on pool shocking!

Removing algae from pool ladders

The procedure for removing algae is quite straightforward. You can either use freshwater or an algaecide. The majority of algae can be eliminated with water and a good scrub. However, an algaecide will be more effective for stubborn algae like black algae.

Conclusion

Cleaning the pool ladder is a crucial part of maintaining your swimming pool. You should regularly clean the pool ladders to keep the pool clean and healthy.

Pool Shocking: What Is It And Why Is It Necessary?

If you're a new pool owner, you might be wondering what you can do to maintain your pool for the sake of its safety and of course, the safety of everyone who's going to use it. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about pool shocking along with its importance. We'll also touch on what you need to do to shock your pool the right way. So, without any further delay, let's dive right in!

What does pool shock refer to?

Pool shock is a term that’s used to refer to the process of raising a swimming pool’s free chlorine levels through the addition of chlorine or non-chlorine chemicals. High free chlorine levels in a swimming pool can work wonders in terms of eliminating potentially harmful microorganisms such as algae, bacteria, and chloramines.

On the other hand, if your pool’s free chlorine levels are low, these microorganisms may thrive in the pool water. Eventually, this is likely to make your pool incredibly unsafe for swimming. If you or any of your family members do swim in a microorganism-contaminated pool, there’s a high risk of disease as well.

Check out the complete pool maintenance checklist here! 

The various types of chlorine and their differences

Before you shock your pool for the first time, we feel it’s important for you to understand the various types of chlorine along with their differences:

Combined chlorine (CC): Combined chlorine or CC refers to the chlorine added to a swimming pool. The ideal CC level should be just under 0.2 parts per million (ppm).

Free chlorine (FC): Free chlorine or FC refers to the chlorine percentage in the CC that’s playing an active role in water disinfection. Ideally, FC levels should be in the range of 1 – 3 ppm.

Total chlorine (TC): Total chlorine or TC is what you get when you add the levels of CC and FC.

Breakpoint chlorination: Breakpoint chlorination is a state of chlorination that involves the shattering of chloramine molecular bonds. Once this state is reached, free chlorine levels start building up and a swimming pool starts to get sanitised.

View the top robotic pool cleaners here!

The most widely used pool shock products

In this section, we’ll take you through some pool shock products that are commonly used by pool owners, such as:

Lithium hypochlorite: Lithium hypochlorite is a pool shock product known for its quick dissolution. Products containing this typically feature 35% chlorine. You can add it to your pool without dissolving it prior to the addition. It takes around 7 – 8 hours to work, and while it’s working, it’s best to avoid swimming. However, despite lithium hypochlorite’s popularity, there are some downsides. For starters, it’s a costly pool shock solution. Also, you can only use it after dusk. Additionally, it can harm aquatic life. So, if your pool is located close to a natural water body that’s rich in aquatic life, it would be best to steer clear of lithium hypochlorite use.

Potassium peroxymonosulfate: There are some non-chlorine products you can consider to shock your pool as well. One of them is potassium peroxymonosulfate, which is one of the most affordable pool shock solutions. You can directly add it to the water whenever you please and it only 15 – 20 minutes to do its work. However, it has one major disadvantage – it cannot eliminate algae. So, if you decide to use potassium peroxymonosulfate to shock your pool, you need to invest in an algaecide separately.

Calcium hypochlorite: If lithium hypochlorite is too costly for you, why not consider calcium hypochlorite? The best thing about calcium hypochlorite is that it doesn’t harm aquatic life. However, it can raise your pool’s calcium levels, which can increase calcium hardness. Also, unlike lithium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite can’t be added without prior dissolving. It shares certain similarities with lithium hypochlorite as well. For example, it’s only effective when used post dusk, and it takes almost the same time to eliminate microorganisms.

Dichloroisocyanuric acid: Known also as dichlor, this chemical has a high chlorine percentage (50 – 60%). It can serve multiple purposes as well, i.e. you can use it as a pool shock solution and/or for regular chlorine doses. It takes approximately 8 hours to eliminate microorganisms, and it should be used exclusively after dusk. No dissolution is required. All in all, this is the pool shock product we recommend you to use due to its ease of use and high safety.

Here are the reasons why your pool water is cloudy!

Shocking your pool in 9 simple steps

In this last section of the article, we’ll tell you 9 simple steps you can follow to shock your pool:

Step 1 – Test your pool water: Buy a pool test kit and check your pool’s pH, FC, and TC levels. Determine the level of chlorine that should be added by deducting FC from TC, which will give you the CC level.

Step 2 – Determine how much pool shock you should mix: To do this, refer to the recommended level on the product packaging.

Step 3 – Dissolve the pool shock: If you’ve purchased a pool shock solution in granular form, dissolve it first. We recommend mixing it in a bucket (a five-gallon bucket should be fine).

Step 4 – Run the pool pump: Your pool pump should be running when you add the pool shock to the water. This will ensure that the solution is circulated evenly throughout the pool.

Step 5 – Pour the solution around the pool’s edges: To make sure that the pool shock solution has the desired effect, it’s best to pour it around the pool’s edges.

Step 6 – Keep the pool pump turned on for 7 – 8 hours: Most pool shock products require 7 – 8 hours to completely eliminate microorganisms. During this duration, the pool pump should be running continuously.

Step 7 – Test your pool water for chlorine levels: After the pool shock has done what it’s supposed to, check the chlorine levels.

Step 8 – Be patient: Continue testing the chlorine until the FC is in the range of 1 – 3 ppm.

Step 9 – Enter the pool: After the FC levels drop, feel free to take a dip in your pool.

See how sunlight can effect the chlorine in your swimming pool!

To Conclude

So, that’s about it for this article. We hope you learned a thing or two about pool shocking, its importance, and how to do it correctly. Make sure to take the help of professionals for your pool cleaning services.

Pool Shocking: What Is It And Why Is It Necessary?

If you're a new pool owner, you might be wondering what you can do to maintain your pool for the sake of its safety and of course, the safety of everyone who's going to use it. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about pool shocking along with its importance. We'll also touch on what you need to do to shock your pool the right way. So, without any further delay, let's dive right in!

What does pool shock refer to?

Pool shock is a term that’s used to refer to the process of raising a swimming pool’s free chlorine levels through the addition of chlorine or non-chlorine chemicals. High free chlorine levels in a swimming pool can work wonders in terms of eliminating potentially harmful microorganisms such as algae, bacteria, and chloramines.

On the other hand, if your pool’s free chlorine levels are low, these microorganisms may thrive in the pool water. Eventually, this is likely to make your pool incredibly unsafe for swimming. If you or any of your family members do swim in a microorganism-contaminated pool, there’s a high risk of disease as well.

Check out the complete pool maintenance checklist here! 

The various types of chlorine and their differences

Before you shock your pool for the first time, we feel it’s important for you to understand the various types of chlorine along with their differences:

Combined chlorine (CC): Combined chlorine or CC refers to the chlorine added to a swimming pool. The ideal CC level should be just under 0.2 parts per million (ppm).

Free chlorine (FC): Free chlorine or FC refers to the chlorine percentage in the CC that’s playing an active role in water disinfection. Ideally, FC levels should be in the range of 1 – 3 ppm.

Total chlorine (TC): Total chlorine or TC is what you get when you add the levels of CC and FC.

Breakpoint chlorination: Breakpoint chlorination is a state of chlorination that involves the shattering of chloramine molecular bonds. Once this state is reached, free chlorine levels start building up and a swimming pool starts to get sanitised.

View the top robotic pool cleaners here!

The most widely used pool shock products

In this section, we’ll take you through some pool shock products that are commonly used by pool owners, such as:

Lithium hypochlorite: Lithium hypochlorite is a pool shock product known for its quick dissolution. Products containing this typically feature 35% chlorine. You can add it to your pool without dissolving it prior to the addition. It takes around 7 – 8 hours to work, and while it’s working, it’s best to avoid swimming. However, despite lithium hypochlorite’s popularity, there are some downsides. For starters, it’s a costly pool shock solution. Also, you can only use it after dusk. Additionally, it can harm aquatic life. So, if your pool is located close to a natural water body that’s rich in aquatic life, it would be best to steer clear of lithium hypochlorite use.

Potassium peroxymonosulfate: There are some non-chlorine products you can consider to shock your pool as well. One of them is potassium peroxymonosulfate, which is one of the most affordable pool shock solutions. You can directly add it to the water whenever you please and it only 15 – 20 minutes to do its work. However, it has one major disadvantage – it cannot eliminate algae. So, if you decide to use potassium peroxymonosulfate to shock your pool, you need to invest in an algaecide separately.

Calcium hypochlorite: If lithium hypochlorite is too costly for you, why not consider calcium hypochlorite? The best thing about calcium hypochlorite is that it doesn’t harm aquatic life. However, it can raise your pool’s calcium levels, which can increase calcium hardness. Also, unlike lithium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite can’t be added without prior dissolving. It shares certain similarities with lithium hypochlorite as well. For example, it’s only effective when used post dusk, and it takes almost the same time to eliminate microorganisms.

Dichloroisocyanuric acid: Known also as dichlor, this chemical has a high chlorine percentage (50 – 60%). It can serve multiple purposes as well, i.e. you can use it as a pool shock solution and/or for regular chlorine doses. It takes approximately 8 hours to eliminate microorganisms, and it should be used exclusively after dusk. No dissolution is required. All in all, this is the pool shock product we recommend you to use due to its ease of use and high safety.

Here are the reasons why your pool water is cloudy!

Shocking your pool in 9 simple steps

In this last section of the article, we’ll tell you 9 simple steps you can follow to shock your pool:

Step 1 – Test your pool water: Buy a pool test kit and check your pool’s pH, FC, and TC levels. Determine the level of chlorine that should be added by deducting FC from TC, which will give you the CC level.

Step 2 – Determine how much pool shock you should mix: To do this, refer to the recommended level on the product packaging.

Step 3 – Dissolve the pool shock: If you’ve purchased a pool shock solution in granular form, dissolve it first. We recommend mixing it in a bucket (a five-gallon bucket should be fine).

Step 4 – Run the pool pump: Your pool pump should be running when you add the pool shock to the water. This will ensure that the solution is circulated evenly throughout the pool.

Step 5 – Pour the solution around the pool’s edges: To make sure that the pool shock solution has the desired effect, it’s best to pour it around the pool’s edges.

Step 6 – Keep the pool pump turned on for 7 – 8 hours: Most pool shock products require 7 – 8 hours to completely eliminate microorganisms. During this duration, the pool pump should be running continuously.

Step 7 – Test your pool water for chlorine levels: After the pool shock has done what it’s supposed to, check the chlorine levels.

Step 8 – Be patient: Continue testing the chlorine until the FC is in the range of 1 – 3 ppm.

Step 9 – Enter the pool: After the FC levels drop, feel free to take a dip in your pool.

See how sunlight can effect the chlorine in your swimming pool!

To Conclude

So, that’s about it for this article. We hope you learned a thing or two about pool shocking, its importance, and how to do it correctly. Make sure to take the help of professionals for your pool cleaning services.

Reasons Why Your Pool Water Is Cloudy And What You Can Do About It

Is your pool water cloudy and you aren't sure why or how to fix it? There are quite a few ways to fix this problem - read on to find out!

If you find that the water in your fibreglass pool is dirty, then this could be due to seven reasons. These include:

⦁ Improper chlorine levels
⦁ The pH is imbalanced
⦁ The alkalinity is imbalanced
⦁ The calcium hardness levels are high

⦁ Improper chlorine levels
⦁ The pH is imbalanced
⦁ The alkalinity is imbalanced
⦁ The calcium hardness levels are high

⦁ The filter is either clogged or faulty
⦁ It could indicate the early stages of the growth of algae
⦁ Due to ammonia or debris

⦁ The filter is either clogged or faulty
⦁ It could indicate the early stages of the growth of algae
⦁ Due to ammonia or debris

How Can You Clear The Cloudy Water From Your Pool?

There are seven things that you need to do in order to ensure that the water in your pool isn’t cloudy. These include:

⦁ The free chlorine levels should be balanced
⦁ Ammonia should be eliminated
⦁ Young algae should be eliminated
⦁ The pH and TA levels need to be monitored

⦁ The free chlorine levels should be balanced
⦁ Ammonia should be eliminated
⦁ Young algae should be eliminated
⦁ The pH and TA levels need to be monitored

⦁ The calcium hardness levels need to be corrected
⦁ The filter may need to be backwashed or the filtering agent replaced
⦁ Foreign particles including mineral deposits need to be scrubbed and vacuumed

⦁ The calcium hardness levels need to be corrected
⦁ The filter may need to be backwashed or the filtering agent replaced
⦁ Foreign particles including mineral deposits need to be scrubbed and vacuumed

Taking A Free Chlorine Reading Of Your Pool

If there are low levels of free chlorine in the water, then this can commonly turn the water in your fibreglass pool cloudy. When there are low levels of free chlorine, this indicated that there is chloramine in the water. As a result, the water turns cloudy and smells more like chlorine.

When there is too much chloramine in the pool water, the chlorine will not be able to sanitize your pool. As a result, algae and ammonia can grow more rapidly.

The first thing you should do is measure how much free or combined chlorine there is in the water. Deduct the amount of free chlorine in the water from the total chlorine to get the combined chlorine levels.

Check out our home pool heating tips!

When your free chlorine is below 3 ppm or if your combined chlorine is more than 0.5 ppm, you’ll need to shock your swimming pool. This is essential in order to kill bacteria in the water before your pool gets algae or even ammonia.

Should you have a saltwater pool and it turns cloudy, then the damage has been done. You’ll need to raise the percentage set within the saltwater chlorine generator or just running the pump alone will not help you clear out the cloudy water.

You’ll need to shut down your saltwater chlorine generators and then manually shock the pool with the help of harsh chlorine.

Ammonia or Algae?

There are times, such as when summer is beginning and the pool is opening after winter, when you may find that the water has turned cloudy. If the free chlorine as well as cyanuric acid levels in the water are from 0 or come close to 0 ppm, then that means that the level of combined chlorine is very high.

Your fibreglass pool needs more chlorine but the level of free chlorine in the water will not rise easily. If this happens to you, then this could fixate that your pool has ammonia. You will need the help of a lot of chlorine to get rid of ammonia from your fibreglass pool.

Another problem you may encounter is algae. During the early stages, algae can make your pool water look dull as well as cloudy. If you want to make sure whether the problem is really algae or not, then do an overnight chlorine loss test. To do this, you’ll need to add chlorine to your pool after the Sun goes down. The next morning, take a free chlorine reading. If the levels of free chlorine drop by at least 1 ppm over the night, then that means that the problem is algae. You’ll need to shock your pool as well as deep clean it to get rid of algae.

Not sure about whether to should install your pool indoors or outdoors? Check out our post on the topic!

Other Reasons Why Your Pool Water Can Be Cloudy

These include:

Imbalance Of Chemicals

Your pool water could either have too much of, or too little chlorine. The pH level, the alkalinity, the calcium hardness or stabilizer levels could be imbalanced.

The Filter Could Be Faulty

When there's poor filtration, then this can indicate that you may not be running your pool filter for long enough. Your filter cartridges could also be worn out or need replacing. There could also be scaling on the filter as well.

Mineral Deposits, Environmental Factors, Debris

It's possible for dust, pollen as well as leaves to build up in the filter and impede the process of cleaning. Insects or even bird droppings could make their way into your pool. Water from rain or after a storm can introduce minerals such as phosphates, nitrates and silicates into your pool. These can also make the water of your pool more cloudy.

How To Tell Which Pool Chemical Is Actually Imbalanced

In order to be able to tell which chemicals might be imbalanced, you’ll need a fast, accurate and simple-to-use test kit. Get a test kit that tests pH levels, the amount of free chlorine, combined chlorine and total chlorine. Your test kit should also test bromine, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and the amount of cyanuric acid in your pool.

There are test kits that can detect metals such as iron, copper, and even biguanide. The recommended levels of chlorine in your pool water should be 3 ppm. This should be the same as the total chlorine, provided the chloramphenicol is 0 ppm.

Here are the top solar pool covers!

Free Chlorine, Combined Chlorine and Total Chlorine: What Are They?

Free chlorine is the amount of available chlorine that can be used to sanitize the water in your fibreglass pool. Combined chlorine, on the other hand, is the chlorine that has been used up. It could also be oxidized or diluted with compounds of nitrogen and ammonia within the water.

Combined chlorine cannot disinfect and kill microorganisms. The total chlorine in the water is the sum of the free chlorine with the combined chlorine.

Check out the complete pool maintenance checklist!

Conclusion

There are seven main reasons why the water in your fibreglass pool could turn cloudy. First, you’ll need to isolate what is causing the water to turn cloudy before you can resolve the issue. Use this guide to learn more about what causes the water in the pool to turn cloudy, as well as what you can do about it.

Pressure vs Robotic vs Suction: Which Type Of Pool Cleaner Is The Best?

Swimming pools need cleaning. Quite simply, an unclean swimming pool is a breeding ground for bacteria and algae, which can trigger skin irritation, allergies, and a lot worse. Thankfully, there are various pool cleaning solutions you can invest in to maintain the health and safety of your swimming pool.

Swimming pools need cleaning. Quite simply, an unclean swimming pool is a breeding ground for bacteria and algae, which can trigger skin irritation, allergies, and a lot worse. Thankfully, there are various pool cleaning solutions you can invest in to maintain the health and safety of your swimming pool.

In this article, we’ll take you through three of the most popular types of pool cleaners – pressure-side cleaners, robotic cleaners, and suction-side cleaners. We’ll also highlight their pros and cons so you can make an informed buying decision. So, without any further delay, let’s dive right in!

Pressure-side cleaners

Pressure-side cleaners are heavily reliant on swimming pools’ pumps and filtration systems. It utilises water on the pool pump’s pressurised side, i.e. the side that forces out pressurised water into the pool from the pump. That’s why these cleaners are known as pressure-side cleaners.

When pressurised water moves through a pressure-side cleaner, it drives the cleaner’s wheels, which results in the creation of a suction. This suction sucks in contaminants in a pool. Pressure-side cleaners also come with filter bags, which are incredibly effective at reducing the stress and workload of the pool filter.

However, owners of pressure-side cleaners are required to manually clean their filter bags following every use. The power required to operate pressure-side cleaners is generated by the pool pump, so these cleaners are excellent options if you want to save up on your utility bills. Many pool owners get stuck with first time maintenance, so check out our checklist here!

All in all, pressure-side cleaners have the following pros to offer:

Availability of filter bags, which reduce the workload on pool filters

Powered by pool pumps, which results in no extra utility costs

There's only one noteworthy con of pressure-side cleaners - the fact that the filter bags have to be manually cleaned.

Robotic cleaners

Robotic cleaners are among the newest pool cleaning tech, and they allow pools to be cleaned effortlessly. The only effort you’ll have to put in if you invest in a robotic cleaner would involve programming it. Once you program it and drop it in the pool, it’ll proceed to function exactly according to how you’ve programmed it. Their autonomy makes them perfect for pool owners who don’t have much time on their hands to maintain their pools.

These cleaners, unlike pressure-side cleaners, don’t need any attaching to pool pumps and filtration systems. They also feature capture or filter bag systems of their own. Simply plug a robotic cleaner into a socket and let it do its job. In a few hours, your swimming pool will look as good as new.

Check out the top solar pool covers here!

One of the most important things you need to pay attention to during the operation of a robotic cleaner is that the pool pump should be switched off. A pool pump, when turned on, circulates the pool water, which can result in settled dirt and debris becoming unsettled, making them difficult to clean. However, when the pump is turned off, the contaminants settle at the pool’s bottom, which allows for the robotic cleaner to easily scoop the contaminants up.

Once a robotic cleaner finishes its cleaning routine, you’ll have to manually clean the filter bag or capture system. This is one of its downsides. Other downsides include higher utility bills as these cleaners consume energy separately and the fact that they are way more expensive than both pressure-side and suction-side cleaners. However, investing in a robotic cleaner can indirectly lead to longer lifespans of both your pool pump and pool filter, as the cleaner won’t overwork them.

Here is an informative guide to help you with the alkalinity in your pool!

So, the pros of robotic cleaners can be summed up across the following points:

Hassle-free operation - simply program it and let it do its job

Not reliant at all on pool pumps and filtration systems, leading to longer lifespans of both

The cons of robotic cleaners include:

Higher utility bills

Manual cleaning of filter bag or capture system

The most expensive type of pool cleaner available in the market right now

Suction-side cleaners

The last type of pool cleaner on this list is the suction-side cleaner, which is dependent on your pool pump. The pump provides the suction that the cleaner needs to remove the contaminants in the water. Suction-side cleaners feature long hoses that attach to the pool skimmer. Once attached, the cleaner works like a conventional vacuum cleaner but inside water.

If you’ve recently invested in a pool, we recommend investing in a suction-side cleaner first as it offers ease of use. However, before you start using a suction-side cleaner, you must ensure that your pool pump is in top-notch condition. Quite simply, if your pool pump isn’t very good, the suction-side cleaner won’t work well. Also, following every use of a suction-side cleaner, you’ll need to clean the skimmer basket and also backwash the pool filter. However, there are some modern suction-side cleaner models that come with their very own filter bags.

In terms of upfront expenses, suction-side cleaners are the most affordable. However, these cleaners make pool pumps work more, which results in higher electricity bills. They also tend to overwork pool filtration systems.

Are pool covers important? Let’s see in this article!

Suction-side cleaners offer the following advantages:

The most affordable type of pool cleaning system

Easy to use for new pool owners

However, they have the following disadvantages:

They require high-quality pool pumps for optimal functionality and performance

Pool owners have to perform manual skimmer basket cleaning and pool filter backwashing following each use

They can overwork both the pool pump and filter

Conclusion: Which type of pool filter should you consider?

The answer to this question boils down to your preferences. If money is your primary concern and you want to invest in a cleaning system without burning a hole in your pocket, you should consider either a suction-side or a pressure-side cleaner. However, it’s essential to remember that these cleaners require pool owners to be physically present and active in the cleaning process. On the other hand, if convenience is your priority, there’s no doubt about it – robotic pool cleaners are the best. All you need to do is program them and you can go about your day without worrying about pool cleaning.

Here Are the Top Solar Pool Covers for 2022!

An open pool may look gorgeous from a distance, but if you're its owner, you're in for a lot of hassle. Think about it - from debris falling into the water to the water losing heat rapidly to direct exposure to the sun's UV rays. Simply put, you need to consider buying a pool cover to keep these issues and their consequences at bay.

Right now, the options in the market are almost endless, which makes it confusing for buyers to buy the best solar pool covers for their vinyl liner, concrete, and fibreglass pools. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best solar pool covers in 2021. Read on to know all about their features, pros, and cons.

Want to know more about why pool covers are important? Find out here!

VINGLI Pool Cover Reel Set

VINGLI is one of the most well-known names in the world of solar pool covers. This product combines a reel mechanism with a solar cover, which makes it easy to roll during periods when you’re not using it. It also doesn’t have any separate storage requirements.

So, in terms of efficiency and storage conservation, this product is quite good. It can cover a 14 x 18 feet area, which makes it compatible with large pools. Handling the cover is easy thanks to a 13.8″ handle. The lockable telescopic tube reduces shocks and vibrations when you use the reel.

It’s quite durable as well, as it has a stainless steel construction. Portability is ensured by the tires, which are quite solid and strong. The only con we could think of while reviewing this cover and reel set is the assembly, which you’ll have to do by yourself.

Pros:

  • Reel mechanism for easy setup and storage
  • Suitable for large pools
  • Handle and lockable telescopic tube for convenient use
  • Durable stainless steel construction
  • Solid tires for portability

Cons:

  • DIY assembly

Blue Wave NS520

If you’re looking for premium performance, there’s no better solar pool cover right now than the NS520 from Blue Wave. The brand’s products have always been impressive, and this one is also quite a feature-rich product.

It features a plastic material that’s 14 mil thick, and it can cover pools up to 16 x 32 feet area. The cover also features thermal bubbles that reduces evaporation by up to 95% for minimal heat loss.

It’s UV-resistant as well, which makes it perfect for those who don’t want to put in too much effort towards maintaining chlorine levels. There’s a 6-year warranty as well.

Pros:

  • 14 mil cover thickness
  • Thermal bubbles for minimal heat loss and reduced evaporation
  • UV-resistance
  • 6-year warranty

Cons:

  • None

Sun2Solar 1200 Series Solar Pool Cover

The Sun2Solar 1200 Series is a solar pool cover that looks good and performs even better. It’s a great fit for small rectangular pools, and has tiny bubbles all over the cover, which keeps the harmful effects of UV rays at bay while transferring heat to the water.

It is a 4 x 8 feet cover that also reduces water evaporation. You can attach this product to a roller as well, which will make it incredibly easy to set it up and remove it. Trimming it is possible too, making it compatible with small rectangular pools of varying sizes.

The best thing about this product is its 8-year warranty. The only weakness is that it can’t be used for bigger pools.

Pros:

  • Visually appealing
  • UV-resistant bubbles
  • Reduced water evaporation
  • Attachable to dedicated rollers
  • 8-year warranty

Cons:

  • Only compatible with small rectangular pools

Intex Solar Pool Cover

Intex’s swimming pool products are incredibly popular, and the brand doesn’t disappoint with this solar pool cover. This is a circular cover that features a diameter of 12 feet. However, you can also use it if you have a small rectangular pool.

It’s a heat-retaining cover that reduces evaporation by up to 95% without causing any changes to the water temperature. It also has additional holes for draining excess water. This prevents water accumulation and makes it ideal for both outdoor and indoor above ground pools.

The cover’s small size, along with the provided reusable carry bag allows it to be stored without any hassles. The only con of this product is its limited 1-year warranty.

Pros:

  • Ideal for circular pools and small rectangular pools
  • Heat retention and reduced evaporation
  • Prevents water accumulation
  • Compatible with both outdoor and indoor above ground pools
  • Reusable carry bag provided with the product

Cons:

  • 1-year warranty
  • Not compatible with in-ground pools

Bestway Solar Pool Cover

This solar pool cover from Bestway is meant for above-ground pools and it has a diameter of 14 feet. This diameter allows the cover to be compatible with almost all above-ground pool sizes.

It’s the most effective at keeping debris out, but it also performs decently in terms of retaining heat. The cover provides a snug fit, and you won’t have to worry about it coming loose.

A carry bag comes free with the cover, which makes it easy to store it and move it around. The only major disappointment is the 90-day warranty, which is well under the warranty periods offered by its competitors.

Pros:

  • Compatible with almost all above-ground pools
  • High on durability
  • Easy to use and store
  • Lots of options to choose from in terms of size

Cons:

  • 90-day warranty

In The Swim Solar Pool Cover

In The Swim’s products are known for their durability and features, and this pool cover from the brand is both durable and feature-rich. It has an 18 feet diameter and a thickness of 12 mil.

It’s one of the best in terms of heat retention, and you can expect your pool water’s temperature to rise by 8 – 10 degrees within just seven days of installation.
The product comes with a 7-year warranty and the best thing about it is that it’s quite affordable for all the pros it provides.

Pros:

  • 18 feet diameter
  • Significant heat retention capabilities
  • 7-year warranty
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Trimming may be required for smaller pools

Conclusion

So, we’ve reached the end of this post, and we’ve done our best to include the very best solar pool covers in 2021. If you have a concrete, vinyl liner, or fibreglass pool, make sure to consider purchasing one of these pool covers for added convenience.

Feel free to chat to our friendly team today if you have any questions!

Mineral or Salt Water Fibreglass Pools? Here Is Everything You Need To Know!

Pool water is something that you will have to consider while getting a pool. It is something that will define your pool-owning experience and also how the water feels against you. Choosing the right water type for your pool is a necessary step for you.

Some water types are softer than otters and will need different apparatus and techniques to maintain them. These sanitising systems have their own pros and cons, but you will have to decide which suits you the best.

Mineral pools

One of the oldest systems in the world, a mineral water pool is great for people who are sensitive or not a fan of chlorine. It is a harsh chemical and reacts differently to different people. It can cause irritation in the skin and eyes and is generally not advised for people with sensitive skin.

You can reduce your pool’s chlorine consumption up to 50% with a mineral water pool. It has a softer feel as compared to a saltwater one too. The pool chlorinator will distribute chlorine in the pool at regular intervals.

Reduce your stress by swimming in a mineral pool!

Costs

As compared to other systems, a Mineral water system will cost you $700 to set up. There is minimum drilling or reworking as you can use the existing chlorinator for your minerals. However, you will need to change the pool’s filter and do a water analysis before you implement this new system.

You will have to replace the mineral cartridge every six months or so. This will set you back $100 but is well worth it given the benefits. Also, make sure you consult a pool specialist if you are switching from one system to another.

A mineral water pool also uses chlorine but not as much as a saltwater one. You will nonetheless have to add chlorine to the pool. It is a great disinfectant that keeps the growth of bacteria in check in your pool.

The Benefits

Softer Water

The water in your pool will be easier on your eyes and skin. Harsh chemicals can also lead to hair loss in life. If you like your hair, we would strongly suggest the mineral water pool.

Non-Corrosive

All the metal, concrete, and your fabrics will not have to bear the brunt of the pool water as it is non-corrosive to begin with.

Eco-Friendly

Since chlorine usage is drastically minimised, the water, when released into the ecosystem, is safe.

Less Wear On Equipment

A saltwater pool is not only harsh on your equipment. Whether it be the pool ladders, filters, or piping, mineral water is softer, and so the equipment lasts a lot longer.

Compatible With Most Pools

Since it is softer and non-corrosive, it is great for concrete and vinyl pools too. The water does not react with the inner lining of the pool and remains chemically stable for longer.

The only negative is that you cannot get rid of the chlorine that you will have to use in any case as a disinfecting agent. It is very popular amongst people with skin problems and people who want really clean water like natural sources.

It is devoid of impurities and toxins and is very cost-effective in the long run. Since it does wear your equipment as fast as the saltwater system, its operational and associated costs are also low.

Salt Water Systems In Fibreglass Pools

These are what you would expect to see at most places, as they have been the industry standard for years. Many of the types of equipment were developed for saltwater systems and later adapted for other water types. Some of the most common systems are easy to find, and most pool specialists are very comfortable working with them.

You can add saltwater to your fibreglass without modifying anything. It works as a drop-in replacement, and you won’t have to think about wear and tear ever again.

It has a chlorinator that adds chlorine to the pool, but additionally, you will also have to add chlorine to the pool. Still, you will be using less than a traditional chlorine pool but more than a mineral water pool.

Is Salt Water the better option when it comes to pool sanitation? Find out here!

Costs

In most cases, a saltwater pool is much more expensive to set up and maintain. You can get a starter kit at $800, but in the long run, you save a lot by not spending much on chemicals.

As time goes on, small costs like that of chemicals add up very quickly and cause problems later on. The salt that you need to put in the pool is also cheap and won’t break the bank. It is cheaper than chlorine and keeps your operational costs down in the long term.

The Benefits

No Chemicals

The main advantage of saltwater pools is that you do not need to use any harsh chemicals to keep the water clean. You get to cut back on chlorine and save money while doing that.

Solar-Powered

It is one of the only water types that is compatible with solar water heaters. Essentially it helps you save money with both low cost of operations and reduced electricity bills due to solar water heaters.

Soft Water

While it may not be as soft as mineral water, it is still a lot softer than the water in traditional chlorine pools. You will experience no irritation in the eyes and skin after being in the water for long periods of time.

The main problem with saltwater pools is that if there are any problems with water quality, they can be hard to rectify. The large amount of salt that needs to be poured into the pool can be corrosive to the metal in and around the pool.

Also, if you put in a lot of salt frequently, then there is a chance that the plants near the pool will suffer. Rusting of metals is also a concern as salt is very corrosive in the long term.

All in all, consider what the best option is, given your surroundings and the pool setup that you have. Mineral water has a silk-like texture, while a saltwater pool is the middle ground of all the water types.

Contact us if you have any doubts, and our experts will be more than happy to help you out. We have the best deals in the area and can help you find all the answers to your pool-related needs.

Here Is How You Can Protect Your Pool From Lotions Such As Sunscreen and Tanning Oils

Tanning oils and sunscreen lotions go a long way in keeping people safe from the sun's UV rays on the sunniest summer days. However, the same products can have several negative effects on your swimming pool.

In this post, we’re going to tell you all about the damage that sunscreen, tanning oils, and other lotions can do to your concrete, vinyl liner, or fibreglass pool. So, without any further delays, let’s get right into it!

Click here for a complete pool maintenance checklist!

The effects of lotions on pool water

Lotions are oily substances, and you probably already know oil and water don’t mix. So, when you enter a swimming pool with a thick layer of oil on your body, there’s a high chance that the oil will slide off and float to the water’s surface. The most evident effect that this has on the pool water is the oily rainbow-like appearance. Not only will the water feel slimy, but there’s also a possibility that on its way up to the surface, the oils will collect dirt and grime. This will make the water look and feel dirty – not what you’d want, right?

There’s also the chance that the excess oils will interfere with the pool water chemistry. Maintaining the pool water chemistry is vital for keeping the swimming pool safe. It involves a variety of elements such as pH, total alkalinity, chlorine, total dissolved solids (TDS) and calcium hardness – all of which play crucial roles in maintaining water quality. So, all in all, it’s fair to say that lotions such as sunscreen and tanning oils aren’t any good for your swimming pool’s water. But does this mean that you can’t apply any lotion before you enter the pool on a hot summer’s day?

Tips to minimize the effects of oily lotions on swimming pools

Spending time in the sun with some oil on the body can help you relax and unwind before you hit the water. However, to keep the oil’s effects at bay, we recommend putting into practice the following tips:

Install an outdoor shower

Have you ever been to a public pool at a resort? If you have, you’d have probably noticed signs that ask swimmers to take a shower before they make their way into the pool. Why do you think that’s the case? Well, the reason why public pools ask swimmers to do this is simple – showering before entering the pool ensures the removal of excess oils. Simply put, doing this will keep the oils from the lotions from making their way into the pool water. That’s why we recommend you install an outdoor shower. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy – simply being functional will do. And, of course, ask both your family and your guests to wash their bodies well before they enter the pool.

Add algaecide and/or enzyme treatments

Even if a ton of oil gets into your swimming pool, it doesn’t mean you have to flush all of the water out. There are some products like enzyme treatments and algaecides that will help you deal with the oil. While enzyme treatments remove oils from water, algaecides can help the oil to clump together, which makes it easy for you to remove the oil manually. If you’re using an algaecide, give it some time to collect the oils. Use a skimmer (preferably with a fine mesh and a long handle) to skim the water surface manually for removing the collected oils.

Perform routine filter cleaning

Irrespective of the type of filter your pool has, make sure that you clean it regularly. Both sand and cartridge filters can be affected by high oil content. As a result, your pool water may start to appear greenish with black oil deposits – a truly ugly sight. The best way to deal with this issue is to clean your pool filter at least once every week (if you’re a frequent pool user). If you have a cartridge filter, replace the cartridge every week for the best results. The point of this filter cleaning exercise is simple – to eliminate filter inefficiencies brought about by excessive exposure to oil content.

Apply lotions properly by following use directions

The problem with most people who enter swimming pools with an absurd amount of oil on their bodies is that they don’t apply lotions the way they’re supposed to. If you look closely at the directions mentioned on the packaging, you’ll find that users are asked to wait 20 – 30 minutes before exposing their skin to water post-application. This waiting period allows the skin to absorb most of the oil content, which drastically reduces the oil quantity that slides off your body into the pool. Also, when applying the products, make sure that you rub them thoroughly. Casually applying them leads to the use of more oil than necessary.

Check pool water chemistry regularly

Even though the previous tips will significantly lower the amount of oil that enters your swimming pool, the fact is that some amount will still be making its way into the water. While minimal oil content won’t make too much of a difference, over time, the oil content in the water may increase. To track how much the oils are affecting the pool water, it’s best to conduct regular pool water chemistry checks. Through these checks, you can find out the elements of the pool water chemistry that have been disturbed by the oil content. For example, the accumulation of oil may reduce chlorine levels, which you’ll get to know about through a pool water chemistry check. You can correct the situation by adding more chlorine.

Click here for some tips on how to save time cleaning your pool!

Conclusion

When oily lotions get inside the water of your vinyl liner, concrete, or fibreglass pool, its water quality may get severely deteriorated. That’s why it’s essential that you adopt the tips that we shared with you in this post. Putting them all into practice will ensure the safety of not just your swimming pool, but of all those people who want to have a relaxing time in it. So, we hope you learned a thing or two from this post. Here’s to a sweet summer experience in your backyard!

Here Are 5 Of The Most Beneficial Ways That You Can Save On Energy Costs With Your Pool!

Pleasant memories and peaceful moments are not the only things a backyard pool will bring in your life. It will also bring a long list of additional costs that could substantially add to your monthly expenses. If you are not smart about it, cleaning and maintenance of a pool can take a toll on your pocket.

While we want you to enjoy the pool time with your family and friends, we also want you to be energy efficient. You can save more than you think by following some smart yet simple tips. Here are five simple ways to save on energy costs if you have a pool or are planning to get one.

Manage the Flora

This might almost sound dumb, but you can save a decent amount by simply managing the trees and plants growing in the backyard. A lot of people make the mistake of planting trees close to their swimming pools. While trees can provide a natural shade for your pool and add a sense of serenity around your pool area, they are also the single biggest source of trash in your pool. Fallen leaves from trees and other plants not only add to the trash but also attract insects that eventually end up in your pool. Additionally, the roots of some trees might pose a problem to the plumbing system of your pool. If a tree is too close, it might even fracture the walls of your pool.

Now, we are not suggesting getting rid of all the trees in your backyard. We just want you to be a little smart about the position of the trees and plants around the pool. Ensure that you plant trees in such a way that they have enough space to grow away from your pool. Consider the growth both above and below the ground before choosing a spot for a new tree. If you are yet to get your pool installed, consider this aspect while deciding a place for it. Just this simple consideration will save you a lot of maintenance and cleaning costs.

Switch to an Energy Efficient Pump

A pool pump is not only one of the most basic pieces of equipment in a pool, but it is also a big contributor to your electricity bill. If you want to cut down on energy costs, you will have to look for a more efficient solution than your regular pump.

While you will have to consider a few things, deciding which pool pump will serve your requirements and still save you money is no rocket science. There are two main elements when it comes to choosing the appropriate pump for your pool – the size of the pool and the rating of the pump.

You will be surprised by the number of options available in the market. Try to get a small but efficient pump for your pool. You can also consult an expert in case you are unsure about the rating that would suffice your pool’s pumping requirements.

Use a Pump Timer

If you like the idea of having an energy-efficient pump, you will love using a pump timer.

Once you get an energy-efficient pump, combine it with a pump timer, and you can proudly proclaim to be a super saver. An appropriately rated pump does not need to run all the time. You just need to keep it operational for a particular part of the day. All you need to do is figure out how long you should keep the pool pump running. It will again depend upon factors like your pool size, water quality and the frequency at which the pool is being used. You can consult a professional to determine this duration. Once you do this, you can use a timer and operate your pump for only a fixed number of hours.

Initially, it might take you a little while to figure out the perfect timings to keep the pump operational. But, once you get a hold of it, you will be pleasantly surprised looking at your savings.

Try Solar Pool Covers

Another big enemy in our fight to save energy costs with our swimming pool is evaporation. Filling the pool with water using a pump and then heating it to a suitable temperature takes up a lot of energy units. All this, only to see the water evaporate. This not only adds to your electricity bill but also wastes a lot of water.

While it is impossible to prevent it, you can always find ways to cut down the rate of evaporation. One of the most effective ways to do this is using solar pool covers. Pool covers work on a simple principle – the less exposed the water surface, the lesser the evaporation. Just by covering the water surface, you can cut down evaporation by more than 80%.

Solar pool covers provide additional benefits too. They allow heat from the sun to pass into the water and trap it. As a result, they act as water heaters, raising the water temperature during the day and reducing the heat loss during the night.

There is a wide range of pool covers available in the market. You can choose one which fits your purpose and budget.

Consider a Windbreak

This is another simple yet effective method to cut down the water loss due to evaporation. Wind is a major factor affecting evaporation. Wind takes away water molecules closer to the surface, accelerating the rate of evaporation considerably. A windbreak, as the name suggests, obstructs the wind blowing across your pool. This will reduce the rate of evaporation and save a lot of your pool water over time.

The best part of a windbreak is that it is simple to install. You can simply deploy it over a fence around the pool. People prefer windbreaks over pool covers because one has to get the pool covers off to use the pool, whereas there is no such issue with a windbreak.

With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your pool time without any worries! Give us a call today if you have any questions about energy costs with your pool!

How Sunlight Can Affect the Chlorine in Your Swimming Pool

You probably already know chlorine is the most popular chemical when it comes to keeping harmful bacteria in swimming pools at bay. But did you know many things affect a swimming pool’s chlorine levels, including the sun.

Well, if you didn’t and if you’re curious, you’re at the right place. Read on to know all about the role that the sun plays in altering chlorine levels inside a swimming pool. So, irrespective of whether you own a concrete or a fibreglass pool, let’s take a closer look at how chlorine inside a pool is measured.

Measuring chlorine

Once the chlorine solution hits the surface of the pool water and proceeds to make its way inside, it performs two roles. One role involves reacting with the organic matter already present inside the water (bacteria, algae, etc.). Another involves disinfecting the water. That’s why chlorine is measured in terms of free chlorine (the water disinfectant) and combined chlorine (the part that reacts with organic matter). 

While combined chlorine levels show how many pool invaders there are, free chlorine levels show how much chlorine is available to disinfect the water. Free chlorine levels should be at least one part per million. Anything below that means it isn’t such a good idea to swim in the water. So, pool owners must replenish free chlorine from occasionally ensure proper levels of it. Free chlorine is known scientifically as hypochlorite ions – one of several chemicals that chlorine breaks down into once it mixes with water. 

How the sun affects chlorine inside

The sun affects a pool’s free chlorine or hypochlorite ions in two ways – through heat and light. Let’s start with the heat aspect.

On sunny days, particularly during the summer months, the water of your pool will consistently stay warm. It’s in this environment that bacteria thrives. As more and more bacteria make the pool water their home, greater levels of free chlorine are used up. If the depleted free chlorine levels aren’t replenished, bacteria will rapidly take over the pool and render the water unsafe for swimming. 

Sunlight consists of ultraviolet radiation, and the UV rays emitted by the sun breaks down hypochlorite ions. As a result of this breakdown, chlorine gas is formed, which is then released into the atmosphere. The sunniest days only take 2 hours to deplete almost 90 percent of the total chlorine level. Here is an informative guide to help you with the alkalinity in your pool!

What to do to keep the sun from depleting chlorine

The best way to keep free chlorine levels from being depleted by the sun’s heat and light is to use a chemical called cyanuric acid. When cyanuric acid interacts with free chlorine, it forms a stable compound that isn’t significantly affected by sunlight. It can also release free chlorine, which makes it great as a disinfection reservoir that stays unaffected in sunlight’s presence.

There are multiple ways of adding cyanuric acid to swimming pools. You can choose to either add liquid or powder versions of the chemical, or buy stabilized chlorine, which contains cyanuric acid. If you buy chlorine without cyanuric acid, remember to add it manually.

The rule of thumb in terms of cyanuric acid use is to add 1 lb (453.59 g) of the chemical, which raises chlorine levels by 10ppm for every 10,000 gallons. However, different cyanuric acid products are available in different strengths. So, make sure you read the instructions on the packaging carefully before you add it to the pool.

You could simply add chlorine as well. However, it’s best to use cyanuric acid as adding excessive chlorine can disturb the pool chemistry. You should keep a regular check on the free chlorine levels in your pool to know when the addition of the chemical is required.

How to add cyanuric acid

In this section, we’ll tell you all the steps you need to take to add cyanuric acid to your concrete, vinyl liner or fibreglass pool.

  • Liquid cyanuric acid: You can pour liquid cyanuric acid directly into your pool’s filter box. Be careful that you don’t add a lot in at once, as it may lead to a disturbance in the pool chemistry. It’s best to keep adding small amounts from time to time and check the pool water chemistry regularly to see if everything’s at the right levels.
  • Granular cyanuric acid: First, put the granular cyanuric acid in a skimmer sock. Next, use a pole for hanging it in the return jet’s front area. You could also place the powdered chemical in the skimmer box or mix it with warm water and then pour it into the box. However, you should keep in mind that pouring the chemical into the skimmer box can have negative consequences. For starters, the pool floor may become full of granules, which may also damage the pool liners. While you can backwash your pool to remove the granules, you have to give the powder some time (2 – 5 days) to dissolve. If you backwash the pool before this period, you may end up backwashing the chemical as well, rendering it useless.

Irrespective of the form of the chemical you use, finish the adding process by turning on the pool pump’s ‘filter’ or ‘circulate’ setting. If you’re using the chemical’s liquid form, it will only take a few hours for the cyanuric acid to dissolve. However, the granular form of the chemical can take up to 48 hours to dissolve. To make sure that it dissolves entirely, run your pool pump at least 4 hours everyday for a whole week. Feel free to test the water whenever you want and if there’s a lack of cyanuric acid, you can repeat the process.

Conclusion

So, if you have an open pool that’s directly exposed to sunlight, you should use cyanuric acid to reduce the sun’s effects on chlorine. You should also note that if you sanitize your pool using UV and/or ozone instead of chlorine, you won’t need to add cyanuric acid. It’s a product that’s strictly meant for chlorinated pools. With that being said, it’s time for us to sign off, and time for you to take better care of your fibreglass pool.

A Fantastic Guide On How To Keep On Top Of Maintaining Your Swimming Pool Water

Owning a pool is a matter of pride and joy. Not only does it provide relief for the heat but it is a budding ground for many fond memories too. Families can spend the hot afternoons on weekends and bond together either over a barbecue or water games.

But owning a pool can be a nightmare too, if you are not careful. You will have to put in the elbow grease to maintain a pool. But there is good news for you. It does not take a lot of time and effort to maintain a pool. If you just take care of a few things in a regular manner, then pool maintenance becomes a breeze.

A few essential things that you should do

Chlorine Levels

Chlorine is an antibacterial and an algaecide that prevents the growth of organic matter in the pool. It keeps the pool water clear and also acts as a disinfectant when added to large bodies of water like a pool. Constant use of the pool leads to the water being exposed to chemicals like sunscreen and body oils that can lower the level of chlorine in the water.

You should check levels weekly and then shock the pool when needed. Also, if a lot of people have been using the pool lately, then you will have to add more chlorine to it. If you are constantly using the pool, it is a good idea to check chlorine levels every second day.

Shock

Pool shocking is the process of adding chlorine to the pool, which spikes its level for some time. It is a great way to get rid of all the organic materials that might be building up in the pool and get clear water. Shock the pool if the water develops a green tint or color.

In most cases, the green color indicates the buildup of bacteria or algae. If the pool water is cloudy or murky, that is also a great reason to shock the pool. Shocking the pool once a week is ideal. But if there has been a pool party or many people using it, you could shock the pool twice a week too.

PH levels

The chemical balance of a pool is very delicate and can be disturbed by even the slightest of things. This is why you should check the pH of your pool every other day or so.

A pH level around 7.2 is ideal as most of the chemicals are effective at this point and keep the water clean too. Too much deviation from this can cause a loss of efficiency of the chemicals in the pool, which can lead to murky waters.

Check the pH levels if the weather is windy or there are constant rains. The water levels increase or decrease in these circumstances, which can drastically change the pH levels of your pool.

Pool pump

A pump keeps all the water in the pool circulating and this is very important as algae can only grow on stagnant water. By circulating the water, you avoid the chances of organic buildup in the pool. We recommend you run the pump at least 8 hours a day so that algae does not grow.

You should take into account the size of your pool and the size and pumping capabilities of your pump too. This way you won’t be wasting energy and will save money on the electricity bill too. Here is a fantastic guide on how to keep on top of maintaining your swimming pool water!

Clean the filter

The filter is the lungs of the pool. It filters out all the junk that does not belong in the pool and keeps the water clear. It catches all the debris like twigs, flowers, and leaves, or even insects and collects them in a skimmer basket. If your pool water suddenly becomes cloudy, there is a chance that the filter is not working properly.

Removing the filter and cleaning it thoroughly is a great way to take care of your pool. There are many types of filters available in the market now. Refer to the manufacturer’s advice when it comes to the frequency of the filter. Every time you clean your filter, inspect it for any damage. If it is damaged, it is best to replace it as soon as possible.

Pump and Skimmer baskets

Your pool’s pump basket will collect all the debris before it even reaches the pump. On the other hand, a pool skimmer removes the debris that might be there on the surface of the pool water. Both the baskets collect the debris that might enter the pool system one way or the other.

If they are filled to the brim, they won’t be able to function properly. You should clean them out regularly so that there is no buildup of debris in the basket. Keep an eye on the baskets and you will have a low maintenance pool for a long time.

Vacuum

A pool vacuum can easily remove the debris from the pool in a matter of hours. It is one of the most efficient ways of having a clean pool and also prevents organic growth in the pool. Robotic vacuums are some of the best vacuums available and are worth every penny.

Winter prep

Winter can be brutal for your pool. Never drain the pool fully and add winterizing chemicals to it. Put silica gel on all the metal handles and joints so that they do not become brittle over the winters and crack.

Invest in a pool cover and make sure there is no water in the pool pipeline when the winter comes. Remove all the pool accessories that are in the area and store them carefully. A little care before the winter goes a long way. Make sure you have your pool ready for the grueling winters.

If any of the points are not clear, you can always call us for professional help. We will be more than happy to help you and clear your doubts. Our experts have years of experience under their belt, and we only wish the best for you.

How To Care For Your Pool After Heavy Rainfall

Australia’s tropical cyclone season is notorious for heavy rainfall and harsh winds – but what does this mean for your pool? 

Essentially, it means you will need to keep a closer eye on your pool’s health immediately after any heavy rainfall. This is because storms can cause damage to your pool and even more havoc if that damage is left unchecked by you. We’ve brought together the top experts here at Newcastle Swimming Pools to compile a list of the easiest 5 things you should check after rainfall to ensure the longevity of your pool. Read on to beat the stormy weather!

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Preparation Is Key

The 3 golden words that will save you from headache and frustrating expenses: preparation is key.

We advise you to keep a close watch on upcoming weather patterns during the storm season. The Australian government’s bureau of meteorology is a great resource to track upcoming storms with. By knowing ahead of time that a storm is heading your pool’s way, you can prevent a lot of the damage that might occur.

The best thing you can do is place a cover over your fibreglass pool. This will prevent any debris from flying into your pool from the wind. It will also shield your pool from the majority of rain that would contaminate your pool (although some will still get in.) If the upcoming storm is particularly harsh, you may also consider preemptively upping the dosage on your chlorine and/or saltwater cleaning chemicals. 

Clean The Pool Free Of Debris

The most important thing you can do immediately after a storm or heavy rainfall is clean your pool free of debris. This debris will most likely take the form of organic matter, such as leaves or insects. If left unattended in large numbers in your pool, they can drastically throw off your Ph balance and even discolour your water. Worse, if leftover during the day, the sunlight could bleach leaves onto your fibreglass pool’s floor. These stains are annoying to clean and the last thing you want to worry about during rainfall repair.

Your best friends here will be your skim cleaner and pool vacuum. If you don’t have one or both, Newcastle Swimming Pools high recommends you acquire them. A skimmer can make short work of those leaves the storm brought into your pool. A vacuum can easily clean the floor of your fibreglass pool, picking up lots of dirt that you can see and even more that you can’t (hint: there will be a lot after rainfall.)

Check Ph And Sanitizer Levels

Another important step you should take is to immediately check your pools Ph and sanitiser levels as soon as the storm has passed and it’s safe to do so. Although it is easy to see the effects of organic matter (such as leaves) it’s much harder to tell by eye the effects rain will have on your chemical balance. That’s why it’s so important to measure your chemical balance. 

Heavy rainfall is notorious for contaminating the water of your pool and throwing off its chlorine balance. Some common contaminants from storms that distort your pools Ph balance are:

  1. Leaves that have been blown into your pool by the wind 
  2. Insects 
  3. Dirt that has been upturned by the storm and deposited into your pool
  4. Raindrops 
  5. Puddles that form around the edge of your pool and collect mud, eventually spilling into your pool
5.2m Alfresco in Electric Grey

Maintain Your Water Line At A Healthy Level

Although this point may seem obvious at first, it’s easy to forget about it during the chaos of the storm. 

Heavy rainfall will increase the amount of water in your pool and this can very easily cause an overflow. Once it is safe to do so, double-check that your pool has not collected more water than it needs. Ensure this by checking your pool’s water line has not increased. 

If it has, then you can set your pool’s filter to its waste setting to drain some of the excess water.

Double-Check Your Equipment Is Not Damaged

The last thing on your checklist will be to check the status of your pool equipment. This includes your:

  1. Pool skimmer
  2. Pool vacuum 
  3. Pump
  4. Filter
  5. Pool cover 

It’s easy to forget that these tools can still be damaged by heavy rainfall, even when they are kept secure and undercover. But nothing is indestructible, and these tools can certainly be affected. Obviously, a skimmer can be easily replaced while your pool’s pump or filter will be more costly. Keep an eye out as well for any puddles that may have formed around your electrical equipment during the storm; this is a big safety concern that should be handled safely. 

Now that you know how to properly care for your pool during a storm and heavy rainfall, we’re fairly certain you’ll be amazing at caring for your pool during the rest of the year! Be confident in your newfound knowledge and peruse our amazing range of fibreglass pools today!

6 Secrets To Ensure Your Pool Stays Healthy During Autumn

It’s no secret that Winter can be a headache for pool owners (especially Australians!) But did you know that Autumn can be the perfect time to prepare for the chilly season? That’s right, save yourself a mini-nightmare in the future by using these tips to ensure you can prepare for Winter early!

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Skimmer Cleaning Can Save You Big Messes Later

Leaves have the annoying tendency to fall in your pool and clog up your filter no matter the time of day or season – but especially so in Autumn! It’s more than likely that you’ll be using your pool less and less in the coming months. This means that your cleaning schedule may drop-off. Nip this in the bud by keeping on top of your cleaning during Autumn: this will mean that once Winter arrives and you make the final decision to cover your pool, you won’t have to spend hours cleaning it.

The best way to clean your pool free of leaves, insects and other floating debris is with a skimmer. This lightweight tool was designed for exactly this type of job. Did you know that frequent skimmer cleaning can significantly reduce the amount of clogging your filter will have to deal with, meaning you can save money on repairs and maintenance? We did, and we think you should too! Save yourself a ton of effort later on in Winter by skim cleaning your pool in Autumn.

Your Pool Cover Can Be Set Up Early To Avoid Headache Later

Speaking of pool covers, did you know they can save you money in the long term by significantly lowering your heating costs? A pool cover will trap the heat in your pool, meaning your pool heater won’t need to pump out as much heat as it normally would. Because fibreglass pools naturally retain heat better than concrete pools, it only makes sense that you double down on saving money by installing a pool cover. 

But where does Autumn come into the picture? Well, if you still plan on swimming during Autumn but you’re afraid the water might get too cold, then it’s a good time to start covering your pool now rather than later. Most pool owners will hold off on covering their pools until Winter really hits. But, ironically, this tends to lead to less pool usage during Autumn, as the weather grows chillier by the day. A pool cover, therefor, will keep your pool nice and warm in the lead-up to winter, meaning you can use it more. Additionally, a pool cover will help keep out all of those pesky leaves and debris we mentioned earlier.

Make Sure You Are Still Testing Your PH Levels During Autumn

If you do decide to cover your pool during Autumn, it’s important that you don’t simply “set and forget” your pool. Many poo owners make the mistake of thinking if their pool cover is on, then they don’t have to worry about maintenance or checking PH levels. In reality this couldn’t be farther from the truth.

Leaves and debris can still slip underneath your pool cover unbeknownst to even the most watchful eye, affecting the chemical balance of your pool. Standard day-to-day wear and tear still applies to your pool, even underneath a pool cover, albeit it less rapidly. Winter is the time when most chemical imbalances occur in pools, precisely because people forget to check their pool balance during the cold weather. It is critically important to avoid this by making sure that you regularly check the PH and alkaline levels of your pool during Autumn.

Keep An Eye On Any Upcoming Weather Patterns

Unfortunately, Autumn means that the calm, sunny days of summer are behind us. Spoiler: it also means that the weather will be noticeably more erratic and wild in the coming weeks. Autumn is known for its storm of leaves and crazy winds. All of this means more cleaning for your pool.

An excellent way to deal with this is keeping yourself updated on the weather. If you know a storm is about to hit, then it would be a good idea to put the pool cover on if you haven’t already. You’ll also know which days (the ones after the storm) are best for cleaning your pool with a skimmer. Pool owners can make the mistake of simply leaving their cover on and thinking this alone will protect their pool from storms. However, it’s even more important to clean your pool after a storm. This is when your pool PH levels will be most affected – avoid it by cleaning your pool thoroughly after erratic weather.

…Make sure to avoid PH imbalance by cleaning your pool with a skimmer after a heavy storm…

Dish Out Some Shock Therapy To Your Pool

Shocking your pool is a process recommended by pool experts across the globe. “Shocking” your pool is when you add a higher dose of chemicals to your pool than you normally would. This can be advantageous in keeping ahead of, and dealing with, algae and keeping your pool at it’s healthiest. Swimming is not recommended during a shock cycle and for this reason alone many pool owners administer it during Winter. But you can shock your pool earlier in Autumn, to increase your pool’s health during Winter – especially if you have a pool heater.

Consider Keeping Your Fibreglass Pool Warm With A Heater

Ok, so this tip may not technically keep your pool healthy, but we highly recommend installing a heater in your pool. If cold water puts you off swimming, then this is the perfect option for you. You’ll be able to swim in your pool year-round and even enjoy the health benefits of a heated swim that you otherwise wouldn’t. Additionally, the more time you spend in your pool, the more likely you are to maintain it and notice any issues that may need your attention – thus expanding the lifespan of your pool and appliances. You may even opt to install a spa next to your pool, for the ultimate heated, relaxed experience.

We hope we’ve impressed upon you the importance of keeping your pool healthy during Autumn. Doing so could save you money in the long term and even extend the lifespan of your fibreglass pool! Now that you know Autumn and Winter don’t have to be so scary, you can enjoy swimming all year round! Now is the perfect time for you to view our extensive range of heated pools!

An Informative Guide to Pool Covers, Do You Really Need One?

When someone gets a pool the builders will usually ask you to get a cover for it too. A pool cover is one of the most essential things that a pool owner must-have. It is often overlooked as it does not contribute aesthetically to the pool. The gaudy aesthetic makes up for a lot of cost benefits that make the product worthwhile. Even a simple pool cover can bring down your costs of operation as it avoids evaporation loss and protects the pool from minor debris.

If you can get over the fact that a pool cover might not add a lot to the visual appeal of your backyard then it is a great investment. The pool cover pays for itself over the years as it saves you time and money in one way or another. It keeps your pool clean and operational for all weather. A year-long operational pool will give you time to enjoy this water facility whenever you like. To get the most enjoyment out of your pool a quality pool cover is necessary and that serves you well too.

But there are many types of pool covers and within that, there are different types and qualities. Most of them perform the same function of covering your pool but the way they do it is different. This means that you can find a cover that suits your needs easily. But with so many options which one would be right for you. In the article below, we tell you how you can get a pool cover and its various pros and cons.

1. Winter Covers

A winter pool cover as the name suggests is a cover for the off-seasons. It is an unusually large tarp that can be spread over the pool. It is like a bedsheet for your pool that protects it. The cover is held in its place by water bags, and they need to be replaced quite often.

These are one of the easiest to install covers do a great job of protecting the pool from debris and evaporation. Evaporation is a major concern as it lowers the water levels and changes the chemical balance of the pool. They might be good but do not offer any safety advantages. If a person or an animal gets engulfed in the cover it can cause major harm to them. You should be careful and vigilant when you install this type of cover. These should be avoided if you have pets or children. 

2. Pool Safety Covers

Traditional covers are tarp and pose a high risk for anyone who might fall on them. If you have kids or pets the chances of accidents happening are high. You can avoid this situation altogether while protecting your pool too. A safety cover has straps at the end of the cover so that you can anchor it with straps. They cover the whole perimeter of your pool and provide extra protection. Since they are harder than a tarp you can practically walk over them without any hesitation. 

They can take a lot of loads and prevents other solid things from getting into the pool. A safety cover can take up to 4500 pounds and will definitely outlast a winter cover. The main disadvantage of such a cover is that you will have to bear the cost upfront. You will have to shell a big sum but when you take into account that a winter cover will more than likely be replaced every other season. This recurring cost will add up in the long term. This means that in the long term a safety cover makes more sense.

They are usually of two different types - Mesh and Solid

Mesh Safety Cover

As the name suggests they are literally a mesh but the rain and snow can get past it easily. It usually traps all the solid debris that might come their way. It is less expensive than a solid safety cover. On the bright side, it is lighter and easier to handle than a solid safety cover. They are also cheaper and a viable option for people not looking to spend a lot on a pool cover.

As it does not block the rays of the sun, it can not stop algae and bacterial growth.

Solid Safety Cover

A solid safety cover is a solid piece of tarp or plastic that is hard and fits your pool like a glove. The cover engulfs the entire area in its shade and prevents both debris and sunlight from entering the pool. It prevents evaporation to a great extent and is stronger than your regular pool covers. 

All this blocking of external elements makes the annual spring cleaning a breeze. This is because the water is not as dirty as it could be, thus making the filtration and pump work less hard. This, in turn, saves you time and money. As the hardcover is stronger it tends to last a long time too. Thus, an upfront investment would save you money down the line.

3. Automatic Safety Covers

These are the only types of covers that are intended for daily use rather than seasonal use. This lends itself to a host of advantages that are hard to beat. It is the safest way to cover your pool. All sides of the pool are sealed and there is no way that any debris can get into the pool. 

They minimize evaporation and keep the fine dirt out too. The added benefit of an automatic pool cover is that you don’t have the spend time removing it. Since it is automated it does that itself. This saves you manual labor, time, and money. You can have the peace of mind of having a clean pool with an Automatic pool Cover. They can be deployed daily, so they have a few advantages –

  • Reduce the time needed by the filtration system to clean the pool
  • As it does not get dirty often or water does not evaporate daily the pH level remains constant. You do not have to buy the chemicals as often as you used to.
  • It reduces the number of services or cleaning routines that you need which can bring down costs by up to 75%.
  • Another advantage is that if you decide to heat the pool water, the automatic pool cover will help the pool to retain the heat for a long time. This means you don’t have to reheat the water as often leading to more energy savings.

Conclusion

With all the available options in the market, one must make a decision for themselves as to what will suit them. There is nothing wrong with any of the options. Your budget and pool will decide what kind of pool cover you’d need. Thus make sure you do your research and take advice from professionals for the same.

Another great option is to talk to the pool owners around you. They will give you a good idea about what the price of maintaining a pool is. They will also be able to share contacts of trusted pool builders who will be able to guide you in your quest for a pool cover.

Helpful Tips On How To Automate Your Pool

There are companies like Insnrg in Australia that has made automation of fibreglass pools easier.

They have incorporated the latest technology such as Bluetooth meshes for easier access to the pool automation system. This shall allow the owners to be monitoring and controlling things even from a distance. They just need the help of a smart device so that the process is well-taken care of. It mainly refers to the unwelcome surprise of the algae-laden pool when a family returns from vacation. The recommended InTouch App can get the users to be in control of such situations since they connect anywhere globally. This method is used since one may not be able to give access to the pool professionals anytime they want. Insert makes sure that the pool waterfalls, deck lights, spa blowers etc are in proper order through the inTouch app. The app is also able to take care of the entertainment systems connected to the pool. It can also let the owners connect along with up to 4 more products.

Basic Costs

Coming to the basic cost of a fibreglass pool it can be anything from 33,724-46,695 AUD and can also go up to 64,854 AUD and more. Added automation will, of course, take the cost to be higher. However, it depends on the owner as to what kind of modifications they would like as well. A ballpark figure may be quoted as 1, 50,000 AUD but that is not the highest by any means.

The Benefits

The automation can turn an ordinary fibreglass pool into a luxury five-star one. This is all possible by the push of a button in one’s backyard. One is spoilt for choice since many brands have come up with their own versions of automation. One of the best brands is however known as Jandy. The reason why they are depended on is due to the fact that they offer customizable pool options. They offer the Aqualink RS, Aqualink PDA and also the Aqualink Z4 which offer different levels of control.

Aqualink RS

This system offers unlimited and complete control over the spa and pool automation system. This can be integrated with the automation of the home system too. The goal of the system is to be providing a user-friendly experience. This makes sure that the owner does not have to break a sweat. With this system being there, the owner will not have to manually operate the spa, water or pool lighting features. All this is done at the mere push of a button. This makes it easy for the ones who are technically ignorant as well.

Aqualink PDA

This is the system that is made for feature-laden spas and pools. The elaborate features sometimes have elaborate controls which might confuse the owner. This system makes it easier for those who are having a tough time keeping up with the controls. This is an advanced feature which can control all the other pool systems. Features being controlled are the heaters, pumps, spa switches, jets, lighting etc to name a few. It comes with a wireless remote typically which makes life so much easier. The owners can actually schedule when to operate the pump systems within the pool with the same. This is not just any other system but a necessary upgrade for any technology junkie. This is being said since it allows one to control and also save on bills per annum. Any web-accessible device can work in tandem with the system like a tablet, smartphone and many others. This system is what exemplifies smart technology within the grasp of smart humans.

Aqualink Z4

This system is the most energy-efficient out of all the offerings of Jandy. This combines being user-friendly and it also makes pool automation easier on the pockets. There are many more perks to it, such as the set up being easy to be installed. It is easy to operate and convenient. It can be controlling till about 3 valve actuators along with being energy-saving. There are 24-hour controls from any kind of smart or internet-accessible device. The housing of the system is water-resistant. It helps one to enjoy the pool system with the touch of a button.

Robotic Pool-Cleaners

The good news is that there are robotic pool cleaners for all budgets and various benefits. This enables one to be able to choose what is best for them. The pools above the ground, however, need different cleaners from the ones below ground. It is kind of a daunting task to choose what is required for someone. However, once they are past that it gets better. The most talked-about models are the Hayward TigerShark in the global market. These can scour a 20* 40-foot pool floor with ease. The scouring will include the water lines, walls and floor of the pool. This is what makes it highly handy and user-recommended online. There are further subcategories of models to be choosing from. They are the standard TigerShark, TigerShark QC and the TigerShark Plus Robotic ones. The second model has the option of a 90 minute quicker cleaning. It is perfect to get things in order in a hurry before guests arrive unannounced.

 They all have easy-to-maintain and clean cartridge filter systems. They have a 24-volt motor that is designed for the usage of least energy. This saves the pool in cost of maintenance in the long run. Another great plus is the fact that it runs unconnected to the filtration system of the pool. This makes sure that the pool needs lesser backwash cycles. This model is recommended for being much more self-contained. It also comes with no excess hoses, pumps, or hookups, amplifying its efficiency and reliability. 

The reviews from the professionals who are using this are just great and they weigh lesser than just 22 pounds. Average pricing is however about 1037 AUD which can be pointed out as steep. The highlights also include a cartridge that is pretty easy to clean. They also come with an on-board pump for vacuuming power which is intense. They have a reach of 55 inches of cord around pools. The warranty period is from 1-3 years and is based on the pool model. There is also the award-winning design of the Dolphin Nautilus Plus, which delivers excellent services though it is pricey. They come with a 2-year standard warranty. They are also pretty lightweight since they only weigh about 22 pounds. It is known to be a best-seller globally and offers the best bang for the buck. The swivel-motion or system makes operation tangle and hassle-free for the owner. The machine automatically scrubs, vacuums and filters the pool’s water lines, walls and floor. This is however the facility that is restricted to an in-ground one.

Cons

The market is over-saturated with variety, so making a logical decision can be tough. Good working knowledge of maintenance of pools is a must. Having the cash and willingness always comes second in this case. Choosing a robotic cleaner for pools can be nothing short of overwhelming for a first time user. This is owing to the fact that the market already has tens of thousands of them making it mind-boggling. Most of the AI-laden pool cleaners have features in excess of what people need. That might lead to a waste of monetary resources while investing in them.

Pool Covers: Are They Important?

Pools can get messy, fast. Despite your best efforts, twigs, grit, leaves, and bugs can litter your pool. In a matter of days, sometimes. Even without you noticing it. It can be frustrating to start scrubbing and skimming when all you want is to jump in without a care in the world. But what can you do?

pool-covers-are-they-important-landscape

It’s hard work to maintain a pool, but it’s harder to prevent junk from falling in. A simple pool cover can be a quick solution to your cleaning woes. With a pool cover, you can keep your pool sparkling clean, aesthetically pleasing, and even save on your bills. Imagine flicking a switch to have an automatic mechanism pull the cover off your pool within a minute. Imagine slipping in to find the temperature not too cold, or too hot, but just right.

This is what a pool cover can do for you.

Why Should I Get A Cover?

Maintaining a pool is often expensive. Regular skimming, scrubbing, filtering, and chemical balancing takes some serious time and effort. Algae needs sunlight to grow, and the water in your pool eventually evaporates when left to the elements. You don’t want unwanted swimmers, or intruders from slipping into your pool either. It’s a liability as well as a pain to prevent intruders.

There are plenty of pool covers in the market that will meet your needs. A pool cover does so much for so little effort and is often mandatory in some cases.

How Can A Pool Cover Help Me?

  • A pool cover can physically prevent intruders from taking a swim.
  • It can prevent evaporation by closing off the top of the pool.
  • It can prevent algae growth by blocking 100% of all sunlight from entering.
  • It can keep your pool at a constant temperature by insulating the heat within.
  • It can stop bugs and mosquitoes from falling in.
  • It can reduce chemical consumption by saving water
  • It can reduce the energy cost of heating your pool

Best of all, you can take off the cover at a moment’s notice to enjoy a quick swim.

As for safety? Fibreglass pools come with fibreglass covers that can withstand a force of 4000 pounds (1,814.37 kg) per square feet. These are serious load-bearing covers that prevent people, snow, rain, and junk from falling in.

Of course, there are different kinds of covers. And different covers offer different advantages when protecting your pool. Let’s explore our options.

What Pool Cover Is Right For Me?

There are three main types of pool covers:

  • Winter pool covers.
  • Safety pool covers.
  • Automatic covers.

Let’s look at each one.

Winter Pool Covers

Pros

  • Keeps your pool free of debris.
  • Relatively low cost
  • Blocks algae-promoting sunlight.
  • Super easy to install.


Cons

  • Zero safety benefits.
  • Not durable
  • Potential legal liability when it comes to stopping pets and kids from falling in.
  • Not aesthetically pleasing.

Winter covers are fine as a quick-fix, They should never be considered if children and pets are nearby.

Safety Pool Covers

Pros

  • Safety pool covers genuinely prevent unwanted access to your pool
  • They do a great job preventing junk from falling in.
  • They are low maintenance
  • They are durable, with long life spans
  • They are aesthetically pleasing. They comply with safety laws and so can be manufactured with pleasing aesthetics in mind.


Cons

  • It is a custom cover.
  • These can require weeks to construct.
  • High initial cost.
  • Specialized tools are involved in the installation, as well as significant physical labor.
  • Not easy to install.
  • Water bag need to be replaced often.
  • Increased costs of cleaning as well.

Safety covers are made from either vinyl or mesh. They’re strapped onto the entire zone of the pool with straps to anchor them. The straps use springs to hold them in place.

These are specifically designed for protection, and are compliant with ASTM F134691 regulations.

You rarely need to pay any attention to a safety cover after you install it. It does its job efficiently, and without need for further concern.
A good safety pool cover lasts 12-15 years and costs more than a winter pool cover as a result.

Mesh-based covers are super easy to handle, and light. They let snow and rains pass through them and collect big debris on the surface for easy cleanup.

Solid safety covers can block 100% of all sunlight and stop algae growth in its tracks. It’s super sturdy and durable, capable of keeping even the finest particles out of your pool.

The purchase cost of a safety cover is higher compared to a winter cover. However, the price differences thin out after years of usage. The winter tarps have short lifespans and the safety tarps last longer, making safety covers more cost-efficient in the long-run.

Automatic Safety Covers

Pros

  • Constant protection against the elements
  • Durable. Sturdy enough to prevent accidental drownings and falls
  • Minimizes debris and pest in pool.
  • Blots out the pool from the sun’s rays
  • Very aesthetically pleasing cover options
  • Keeps the pool zone clean and ready for immediate use
  • Long lifespan
  • Significant energy savings in the long-run

Cons

  • Specific automatic covers made from vinyl can run out after 5 years of frequent use
  • Is complex and has many parts. The more parts, the more elements in the mechanism that can fail.
  • Expensive to replace.
  • High upfront cost
  • Too good at insulation. Can cause over warming of pools during months like July and August.
  • Fantastic solar covers
  • Might need to re-deck when installing onto an already existing pool zone
  • Requires additional equipment and parts.

Automatic pool covers are the most cost-effective pool covers that tick a ton of boxes and offer the most benefits out of all pool covers.

This is the safest possible pool cover, ensuring your pool is sealed super tight and gives you the peace of mind needed when it comes to all safety-related matters.

It opens and closes within minutes, making it ideal for everyday usage.

Everyday usage ensures minimal debris buildup, maximum evaporation protection, maximum energy savings, minimum filtration needs, and minimum chemical balancing needs.

All mechanisms like the motors and pumps require to be replaced less often as everything needs less cleaning.
An automatic pool cover is the most superior choice, hands down. It is also the most expensive of all the pool covers but is worth its weight in gold if you can afford it.

These can be installed on any size, or type of pool, and even in ways that can render them completely invisible from the outside. This pool cover works with the simple press of a button or even remote control and looks impressive and sleek.

The Bottom Line

Pool covers are the ideal solution to most pool-related problems. They significantly improve your pool experience and extend the lifespan of your pool to its maximum. A pool cover quickly makes up for its initial cost with its long-term savings and makes the entire process of owning a pool way more enjoyable.

The simple act of tossing a cover on your pool holds several benefits that cannot be ignored and is incredibly convenient. You can have real peace of mind in maintaining your pool thoroughly. Best of all, you can now spend less time maintaining your pool, and more time enjoying your pool instead.

Swim Now Pay Later

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