Tips for Replacing Your Pool Pump

October 25th, 2012 Posted in Pool Repairs
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One of the most common pool repairs is replacement of the water pump.  A pool pump has a wide range for its life span estimate, and much of that may depend on how strong your routine pump maintenance program has been.  While estimates vary between a year and a decade, three years is the average expected life of a pool pump.  This means that you can expect to replace your pool pump a few times over the life of your swimming pool.

A variable speed pump is often more efficient than the traditional kind of pool pump. A variable speed pump will continue to keep your pool clean but uses less energy to reduce the cost of operating your pool.  They also often work at lower temperatures to further save on your operating costs.

You can also use a seasonal timer with your pump to reduce the amount of time your pump runs during the off season.  It will also run less during the summer months because it will adjust on its own.

The size of the pump matters for how efficiently it will run so make sure you purchase one large enough for your pool but not so large that you waste the extra capacity.  Also look at your pool’s plumbing since it can only carry so much water at a time.  If you buy a pump that exceeds this amount, not only is it wasteful but it can damage your pump.  A pump that is too large can also damage your filter.

You will also want to factor in any additional features of your pool such as a spa or pool sweep.  These features can affect the size of the pump needed for your pool.

If you are not sure what kind of pool pump to buy, talk to a service professional who can guide you on that decision.

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“Green” Pools

October 25th, 2012 Posted in Pool Maintenance
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No one wants a pool full of green water, but many pool owners choose to “go green” with environmentally friendly pool practices.  If you are worried about the effects of chlorine on your skin, clothing, and the environment, you should know that there are alternatives tochlorine for  keeping your pool clean and safe.  Many products and tools are available today to help you keep your pool clean without the use of chlorine.

For example, you can have a salt water pool to eliminate the need for chemicals.  They are not totally free of chlorine since the salt produces its own chlorine.  However, you don’t have to buy the chlorine or handle it and it is often said that the water seems softer than from a standard pool.

Another option is an ozonator.  Pools can use an ozone generator to cut down the use of chemicals by up to eighty percent.  Some types even say they can remove the need for chemicals completely.  These systems also make the water softer, a benefit to your eyes and skin.  However, they are not inexpensive to purchase, which can be a drawback for some pool owners.

Still another option is to have a natural swimming pool.  In this system, you rely on products from nature to keep your pool clean.  This includes plants and microorganisms that can filter and purify the water without the use of chemicals.  This is also an expensive option but will require less maintenance over the life of the pool.

A chlorine generator is another alternative.  It adds salt to the pool in the form of hypochlorous acid to disinfect the water with a natural alternative to the chemical.

You can talk with your local pool service company to determine the chlorine alternative that is best for you.

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How to Choose the Right Pool Decking

October 25th, 2012 Posted in New Pools
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The only thing used in your pool area more than the pool is the decking.  It is important to choose the right kind of pool decking when installing your new pool to have a fun place to relax and entertain.  New pool decking can add new life to an existing pool and give it a fresh, new look.

Safety should be the first consideration when choosing the right decking material.  You will want something slip-resistant since it will often be wet.  You can add a substance to your sealant that will help it be skid-proof.  However, it must be reapplied to keep it working since it wears away over time.

If you choose concrete for your decking, it is advisable to get a patterned style to add traction.  Stamped concrete features a variety of colors and patterns that are lovely to look at and improve safety.

The style of the decking is also important and should go with the rest of your backyard area.  Decorative finishes or decking that can be stained can allow you to have color in your deck area.

If you plan to swim at night, you will also want to consider lighting.  You can add light fixtures to your walkway or to the area around the pool.

Consider the climate when choosing a pool decking.  If you live in an area where it gets cold during the winter, you will need decking that can hold up to snow and ice.  In warmer climates, the concern will be year-round sun that can damage the decking material.

Before choosing your decking material and design, you may want to talk to an expert who can guide you on the best decision.  They will show you the options and the pros and cons for each one to help you make the right selection.

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Common Pool Maintenance Mistakes

October 25th, 2012 Posted in Pool Maintenance
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Maintaining a pool isn’t difficult but many homeowners do not realize that regular pool maintenance is necessary to keep their pools sparkling clean.  Here are the most common mistakes homeowners make when it comes to caring for their pools.

  •  Not checking the chemicals often enough.  It is important that you check your pool’s chemistry frequently during the season of use.  The chemistry changes over time and often needs small adjustments rather than waiting for a major adjustment.
  • Not replacing or repairing missing or broken parts.  Missing drains can become a hazard as well as fences or gates that need repaired.  Gate locks that do not work properly also need to be replaced.
  • Not cleaning the pool pump often enough.  When debris and hair or lint get trapped in the pump, they can prevent it from functioning correctly.
  • Allowing the pH to get too high.  It should always stay below 8.0 for the best effectiveness.  The correct pH allows the chlorine to work to its full potential.
  • Not keeping the alkalinity at the right level.  It should stay between 80 and 140 PPM.  When it gets to the wrong level, it can keep your sanitizer from performing.
  • Not removing debris from the pool quickly.  Whether it is leaves or other natural items or things left behind by swimmers that end up in the pool, it is important to remove them from the pool as soon as possible.  Certain items can prove to be a swimming hazard and all of them can alter your pool’s chemical balance.

You can hire a pool service company to clean and maintain the pool for you.  They can schedule the pool cleaning and maintenance according to your needs so that you  your only job is to enjoy the pool!

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5 Common Pool Repairs

October 25th, 2012 Posted in Pool Repairs
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Pool owners will have several repairs to make over the life of your pool.  Some of them can be costly to make, but all are needed to keep your pool functioning at its best.  Here is a list of five common pool repairs that you can expect sometime in the future.

Pool pump repairs are a common type of pool repair.  Since the pump is an integral part of your pool system and it works constantly, it makes sense that you would have to have it repaired and replaced at some point.  When the pool pump is not working, water cannot be circulated, heated, or filtered.   Call a professional for pool pump repairs.

If your pool has a liner, it is important to keep sharp objects away from the pool or you will have to repair the lining.  Tears can also happen over time as the pool ages and small ones can be patched.  However, if you let the tears get bigger, you may have to replace the lining.  A lining usually needs to be replaced about every 10 years.

Filters generally last for years with regular mainenance, but occasionally a filter will malfunction and need to be replaced.  Regular pool filter maintenance includes replacing the cartridge or filter media and cleaning the filter.  More extensive repairs will require the help of a professional.

Pool lights will need to be replaced occasionally.  If you are having problems with your lights and changing out the bulbs does not work, you will need to have an expert look at your lighting.

Leaks also happen over time and can be hard to find.  Anytime your water level begins to drop faster than normal, you should contact a professional.  Pool leaks not only waste water, but they also cause an increase in chemical use and can cause harmful underground erosion.  A leak can start in a variety of different areas and  a professional pool service can find them and get the leak repaired quickly.

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Make the Most of Your Pool with Pool Service

October 17th, 2012 Posted in Pool Maintenance
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If you are the owner of a property with a pool, whether it is for personal use in the home or as a public facility within a hotel or residential building, and do not currently use a pool service you may not be getting the most benefits out of it.

A pool is a great and luxurious addition to many properties but proper pool cleaning and maintenance can be a burden.  Not only is it important to keep the water clean and clear but there is also a lot of equipment such as pumps and filters that require regular maintenance in order to keep in good condition. Neglecting a pool can lead to problems such as leakages and poor water condition can lead to health issues. Ultimately if you fail to take good care of your pool, the costs will be high in the long run.

Part of the premise of having a pool in your home is that it is a feature that will provide you with a comfortable place to sit and relax in the evenings or cool off on a hot weekends. Maybe you want to be able to share the area with friends or have some fun with family, either way in order to do so, the pool needs be in fully working order with clean and properly balanced water. This can be a headache of owning a pool but with the use of a pool service you have the confidence that the pool is properly maintained all year round, so you can sit back and enjoy your pool rather than have to worry about it.

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Enhance Your Home with the Perfect Pool

October 17th, 2012 Posted in New Pools
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If you are lucky enough to live in a city that is blessed with warm summers, why not make the most of it through the installation of a pool. Not only will it make your summers more cool and refreshing but in most cases, when designed properly a pool will also increase the value of your house.

Once you have made the decision to build a pool you need to think about the pool design including the shape, size and depth. Your pool builder will be able to help you choose the perfect pool design to meet your needs and fit your budget.  There are very few limitations  other than the size of the yard as to what you can do. However, before you make any decisions, think about how likely you are to sell the property in the following few years.  If you plan to sell the home within a few years,  consider choosing a pool design  that is most appealing to potential buyers rather than to specifically satisfy your own personal tastes.

The purpose of the pool is another factor that requires some thought.  For example, if you intend to use the pool for exercise then it needs to be designed with a reasonable length. The depth that you choose will also effect how you are able to use the pool as the integration of a slide or diving board will require the pool to be significantly deeper. Be warned that the use of these features can cause the pool to considered a hazard and may be more expensive to insure than a shallower pool.  A deep pool will also cause an increase in costs both at the time of construction and in terms of filling and maintaining it.  On the other hand, if you intend to use the space to primarily for relaxing and entertaining friends, it can be shallower and length is not as much of a concern.  Also, don’t forget to leave adequate space surrounding the pool for patios and deck areas.

 

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