Spring Safety Check for Your Pool

Spring is the beginning of swimming season and time to ensure your pool is ready for summer. One of the responsibilities of pool owners is ensuring their pool is safe for their family and guests. Here is a safety checklist to make sure your pool is meeting safety standards.

Inspect Handrails, Ladders and Diving Boards

Any equipment attached to your pool should be inspected for corrosion and stability. Many ladders and handrails are made from metal and can weaken over time when exposed to water. Inspect to ensure all the screws and components are still sturdy.

Inspect Drain Covers

It is vital that drain covers are tightly in place and are not damaged. A damaged drain cover can cause excessive suction that can be dangerous, even deadly, to small children swimming in your pool.

Gates and Fencing

You want to ensure you have a safe enclosure for your pool. A fence around the pool with a locking gate is the best way to ensure children and pets do not have access to your pool when no adults are present to ensure their safety. Make sure your enclosure is secure.

Thorough Pool Cleaning

Start the summer off right with a thorough cleaning and sanitizing of your swimming pool. Even if you normally perform your own pool maintenance, spring is a good time to hire a professional pool service for a thorough cleaning using commercial equipment. They can also inspect and perform maintenance all your pool equipment to ensure it is working properly.

Before you jump in the pool this spring, make sure it is safe and ready for summer. Do a spring safety check and cleaning to prepare your pool for many enjoyable summer days in your pool.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
4581 Weston Road
Weston, FL 33331
(954) 840-8544

6 Popular Pool Decking Options

If you are considering remodeling your pool decking or planning a new pool, there are many choices for pool deck materials. The pool deck is an extension of your patio or outdoor living space and should reflect your style. However, there is more to consider than just appearance when it comes to pool decking. Here are six popular choices for pool decking and the benefits of each.

  1. Concrete. The standard for pool decking is concrete, a safe and affordable option. For the budget-conscious, this can be the best choice but it is more costly to repair and lacks aesthetic appeal.
  2. Pavers. A stylish option with easy maintenance and repairs, pavers can be an excellent choice. Pavers can be man-made concrete or stone, depending on your preference and budget.
  3. Tile. For bright colors and elegance, tile can be stunning around the pool. However, it can be slick when wet, which can be a safety issue.
  4. Flagstone. For a natural appearance, flagstone can create a lagoon-like style for your pool area. Stick to lighter colors to keep the stone from becoming too hot in the sun.
  5. Travertine or marble. Veined marble or travertine is a gorgeous option for your pool decking. It stays cool and is non-slip for a perfect surrounding to your pool but it is more expensive than some other options.
  6. Wood. The beauty of wood can brighten your pool area but it does have drawbacks. Wood is high-maintenance, especially when exposed to water on a regular basis.

Choosing the right pool decking is important for the style, safety and maintenance aspects you prefer. Talk to your pool remodeling contractor to determine which is best for your budget and needs.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

How to Remove Pool Stains

Pool stains are bound to occur for a variety of reasons. Organic materials like leaves, algae and even living creatures like worms can decompose in your pool and leave stains on the surface. Metals in the water, from landscaping fertilizers or in the pool structure can also leave stains. Removing stains from your pool is not easy but it is possible. Here are a few tips on how to remove stains and ways to prevent them from occurring.

Scrubbing Away Stains

Like any hard surface with a stain, scrubbing is the best method to remove pool stains. However, this can be difficult when a stain is at the bottom of your pool. Using scrubbing pads with a stain removing substance like muriatic acid works on organic, copper and iron stains. To reach the bottom of the pool, you will need a scrubber with a long handle, preferably hollow, allowing you to apply muriatic acid directly to the stain while scrubbing.

Preventing Stains

While it is almost impossible to prevent all pool stains, you can minimize the chance of stains with maintenance. Keeping your pool clean and removing any debris quickly can prevent organic stains; use a pool cover whenever your pool is not in use. For metal stain prevention, the best protection is maintaining the correctly pH balance. Too much acid or alkaline is a common reason metal stains occur.

Removing stains is not easy and you may have to drain your pool to scrub away some stains on your own. It is simpler to call a pool cleaning service to have your stains removed by a professional that has the right equipment and knowledge to remove stubborn or difficult-to-reach stains in your pool.

Posted on behalf of:
Premier Pool Enterprises
3502 Sixes Road, #108
Canton, GA 30114
(494) 496-5579

Chlorine Alternatives for Your Swimming Pool

Chlorine is one of the most effective sanitizers for swimming pools, killing bacteria and organisms that can pose health risks to swimmers. But it is also a harsh chemical that can dry your skin and hair, bleach clothing and leave an unpleasant odor on your body. There are chlorine alternatives that can reduce the amount of chlorine needed for your pool for a more enjoyable, yet safe, swimming experience. Salt water generators and ozone systems are two popular choices for pool owners that want to reduce chlorine in their pools.

Salt Water Generators

Salt water or chlorine generators effectively sanitize by making pure chlorine from the salt that is added to the water. The generator is installed into the pool’s filtering system, converting salt into chlorine as it passes through. As the chlorine is used for sanitization, it converts back to salt. The water does not have the smell of chlorine and does not harm your skin or clothing.

Ozone Systems

Another alternative to chlorine for pools is a ozone system. These systems use ozone as the main sanitizer for killing harmful organisms in the pool. While some chlorine is still needed, it is a fraction of what is used in chlorine pools, reducing the odor and harsh effects. You can use up to 90% less chlorine with an ozone system for your pool, creating a more desirable swimming environment.

If you want to eliminate the need for using chlorine as your main pool sanitizer, talk to your local pool service company about chlorine alternatives. Both salt water pools and ozone systems have many benefits and can keep your pool safe and sanitized with minimal use of chlorine.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pools, LLC
6538 Collins Ave, #42
Miami Beach, FL 33141
(305) 767-7755

5 Traits to Look for in a Pool Contractor

When preparing to add a new pool or renovate an existing pool, you want a contractor that you can trust. Pool installations are a major investment and you want to ensure it is done right. While there may be many companies that offer pool installation, not all are created equal. Some subcontract much of the work or may be landscapers that offer pool installation on the side. Here are five traits to look for in a pool contractor to ensure you get a qualified expert to install or renovate your pool.

  1. They have their own in-house crews. You want a pool contractor that specializes in pool installations and does not need to subcontract the work. This means one company doing everything from start to finish.
  2. An excellent warranty. Find a pool contractor that offers lifetime warranties on their shotcrete pools or fiberglass shells. You also want a warranty that covers the workmanship for at least a year.
  3. Landscaping and hardscapes can be completed by your contractor. Often you will need to add new landscaping, fencing and hardscapes with your pool. Make it easier by finding a contractor that offers these services.
  4. A project manager will oversee your pool installation. You want a company that give you a single point of contact that will be available throughout the build to answer questions or concerns.
  5. Excellent reputation and testimonials in your area. Choose a pool contractor that has a long-standing reputation for quality work in your area with local testimonials and examples of their work.

Choosing the right pool contractor can ensure your pool build goes as smoothly as possible. Make sure to vet your contractor to ensure they have all these traits to get your new pool off to a great start.

Posted on behalf of:
Premier Pool Enterprises
3502 Sixes Road, #108
Canton, GA 30114
(494) 496-5579

How are Gunite and Fiberglass or Vinyl Pools Different?

If you are planning on adding a new pool to your backyard, you may have plenty of questions. How long will it take to build your pool? How much will it cost? But before you can get answers to any of those questions, you need to decide on the type of pool you will be adding. This will impact how long it will take to build and the cost. Three of the most popular options are gunite/shotcrete, fiberglass and vinyl. Knowing the differences can help you decide which is the best fit for your needs.

Fiberglass Shell

Fiberglass shells come pre-shaped and formed for the size of your pool. The hole is dug the size of the shell and the plumbing is installed before the fiberglass shell is installed. These pools are less expensive than gunite or concrete pools and do have a long-life with little maintenance. Some shells come with a lifetime warranty but they are limited in size and shape.

Vinyl Liners

Vinyl liner pools attach to a premade structure in the ground. The liner is similar to an above-ground pool but sunken in the ground. These pools are the least expensive of all in-ground pools but they typically need to be replaced about every 7-10 years.

Gunite/Shotcrete/Concrete Pools

By far the most versatile, gunite pools are built to the depth, width and shape desired. The concrete is applied to a metal structure that can be designed to fit the needs of the homeowner. These pools can last for decades but do require resurfacing every 10 years or so. Gunite or shotcrete pools are the most popular pools due to their unlimited design potential but do cost the most.

To find out which pool is the best for your needs and budget, talk to your local pool contractor.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

Spring Checkup: Leaks in Your Pool

Winter can seem long and when it comes time to embrace spring, you cannot wait to open your swimming pool. Once you go through the process of cleaning and preparing your pool for swimming season, you should still keep an eye on your pool. Cold snaps during the winter can cause damage to plumbing and pool equipment that may not be noticeable right away. Once your pool is open, you need to check for leaks from winter damage.

Pool Pump Leaks

If there is a leak in your pool pump, you can have several issues. There are three common places for leaks on pool pumps: the suction side, the discharge side and at the connection of the motor and pump. If there is a leak on the suction side, it is air and can interfere with the pump function. On the discharge side, it is a water leak that will eventually be noticeable with excess water. If the leak is between the motor and pump, the problem is most likely with the shaft seal.

General Pool Leaks

Whether it is caused by freezing or deterioration, leaks can occur in your underground plumbing and the shell of your pool. Once your pool is filled and circulating again, watch for signs of leaking. Wet or soggy areas around the pool can be a sign of underground leaks. Also watch the level of water in your pool; if you need to add water more often than usual, you could have a pool leak.

If you notice signs that a leak was created during the winter, contact your local pool service for repair. In no time, your pool will be ready to enjoy again.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
4581 Weston Road
Weston, FL 33331
(954) 840-8544

5 Things to Check Before Swimming in a Public Pool

You may take excellent care of your own swimming pool at home but never assume a public pool is kept at the same safety level. Pools at hotels or in public areas are exposed to many more people and not all are kept as clean and safe as needed. Before you and your family head to the local pool when you are on vacation, here are five things to check before you jump in the water.

  1. Check the pool’s latest inspection results. Most public or commercial pools need to be inspected regularly by the local health department. Check online or on-site for the latest inspection results.
  2. Is there a lifeguard on duty? A good sign of a safe pool is a lifeguard on duty. This means the establishment cares about pool safety and has a staff for the pool area.
  3. Check the water clarity. You want clean, clear water in the pool. You should be able to clearly see the bottom of the pool.
  4. Are the drain covers in good shape? While checking the clarity of the water, look at the drain covers on the bottom of the pool. Are they well-secured and in good shape? Damaged drain covers can be dangerous, especially to small kids.
  5. Check the pH balance of the pool. Yes, you need some chlorine strips to check the pH balance but these are a good thing to bring with you when heading on vacation. Make sure the pH level is between 7.2-7.8 before you decide to enter the pool.

These quick steps can ensure when you swim in a strange pool that it is safe. Keep these safety tips in mind for your own pool at home. Hiring a pool service to maintain your pool water and equipment can protect your swimming pool from failing inspection.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pools, LLC
6538 Collins Ave, #42
Miami Beach, FL 33141
(305) 767-7755

Cleaning Your Salt Water Pool Equipment

Salt water pools offer many benefits for homeowners that want to enjoy swimming in water that does not use excess chlorine. Salt water generators keep pool water sanitized without needing to constantly add chlorine. The salt water pump generates naturally-occurring chlorine for sanitization. This reduces the smell and negative effects of chlorine while still reducing the growth of harmful bacteria and algae. Many people enjoy the feel of a salt water pool without red eyes, dry skin or discolored hair from excess chlorine. To keep a salt water generator working as it should does require maintenance, including occasional cleaning.

How to Clean Your Salt Water Generator

Salt water generators or pumps can become clogged and may need cleaning about once per swimming season. Hard water calcium buildup, too much salt or debris can clog the pump and cause problems for your salt water pool system. You can clean the pump or salt water cell yourself with a little know-how. This includes:

  • Draining your salt water generator
  • Plugging up the pump
  • Adding a cleaning solution for salt water pumps
  • Soaking the pump
  • Scrubbing the pump clean
  • Rinsing the pump with water
  • Unplugging, starting and filling the pump again

Doing this process at least once each summer or when your pump is clogged can help maintain your salt water generator. This can help extend the life of your equipment and prevent sanitization problems from a non-functioning salt water generator.

If you do not feel comfortable cleaning your pool’s salt water generator yourself or just don’t have the time, contact your local pool service company. You can enjoy the benefits of your salt water pool without the headache of maintaining your pool equipment with the help of your local pool service professionals.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pools, LLC
6538 Collins Ave, #42
Miami Beach, FL 33141
(305) 767-7755

Is Pool Service Worth the Investment for Your Commercial Pool?

If you have a commercial pool at your business, you may want to save money by having your regular staff perform routine maintenance. While your janitor can add water when needed or skim out the debris floating in the pool, they are not pool experts. Here is why it is worth the investment to hire a professional pool service to maintain your commercial swimming pool.

Quality Cleaning

The cleanliness of your commercial pool reflects on your business. A dirty pool can reflect poorly on the quality of service you provide your customers and guests. A professional pool maintenance company can ensure your pool stays sparkling clean. Not only does this look better, it is safer for your customers. Proper cleaning and chemical balance can prevent illnesses; you could be liable if your customers contact an infection or illness from swimming in a dirty pool.

Protect Your Pool Equipment

Your janitor or staff can perform simple pool maintenance but it is unlikely they are pool equipment experts. Hiring a pool service ensures your pool equipment is maintained properly to help extend the life of your commercial pool. Plus, pool professionals can routinely inspect your equipment and catch needed maintenance and repairs before they cause bigger problems for your business.

Safety Concerns

Some pool services offer more than just pool cleaning and maintenance. Keep your guests safe and prevent injury accidents by hiring a pool service that offers lifeguard services.

Don’t leave the maintenance of your commercial swimming pool to your staff. Hire a professional pool service that offers maintenance for commercial pools. It is worth the investment to prevent pool problems and protect your business and customers.

Posted on behalf of:
Premier Pool Enterprises
3502 Sixes Road, #108
Canton, GA 30114
(494) 496-5579