Save Time and Money with Pool Automation

Many homeowners have upgraded systems in their homes to automation. Garage doors can be opened with a cell phone and HVAC, lights, entertainment systems and much more can be all controlled from one device. The new technology makes life more convenient and can help manage costs – this includes your swimming pool. If you still have a manual system for maintaining your pool, it may be time to upgrade to a pool automation system.

Money and Time Saving Features

Pool automation systems give you easy access to the controls of your swimming pool and a simple way to manage your pool water and features. From temperature to pH balance, your pool’s systems are right at your fingertips. Most systems can be accessed through a mobile device like a smartphone or tablet; they can also be integrated into most home automation systems to keep all your controls in one place.

For saving money, an automation system can alert you when your chemicals need adjustment. This can help reduce extreme unbalance issues that can cost more to correct and lead to other issues within your pool. Many automation systems also allow control of temperature and water features, helping reduce energy use with remote management – you can turn down the heat when you know you will be gone a few days right from your phone.

Having all your features from lights and waterfalls to temperature and chemical controls in one place saves you time. No need to go out to the pool and check the pH level – you can do it from your couch or even when you are at work with pool automation.

Talk to your local pool service about the option of switching to a pool automation system – it could be worth the investment to save you time and money.

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

Which Type of Pool Costs Less to Maintain?

For some people, low maintenance is key for any feature they buy. Clothes are wash and wear, dishes are dishwasher safe and their oven is self-cleaning. The same can hold true with their swimming pool. They want the pool that will require the least amount of money and time to maintain. When it comes to low-maintenance pools, fiberglass has concrete and vinyl liners beat.

Pool Maintenance Rundown

Three main types of pools are concrete, vinyl linings and fiberglass. Each have their pros and cons when it comes to price, longevity, design, versatility and maintenance. However, when it comes to maintenance, fiberglass is the winner. A rundown of these three when it comes to maintenance:

  • Concrete. When it comes to maintenance, concrete requires much more, both routinely throughout the year and over the lifetime of the pool. They are prone to algae, need more filtering, acid washing and resurfacing – maintenance costs can range around $25,000-$30,000 over 10 years.
  • Vinyl liners. Vinyl is easier to maintain than concrete, with less worry about filtering, algae or scrubbing. However, liners can leak and need replacement. The 10-year maintenance cost is around $10,000-$14,000.
  • Fiberglass. Maintenance drops significantly for fiberglass pools. Algae problems are rare, and cleaning is easier. Filtering is minimal, and it is less likely there will be leaks or needed repairs. Maintenance costs are a fraction of concrete and about a third of vinyl liners, ranging from $3,700 to $5,000 for 10 years of use.

If low maintenance for your new pool is a priority, consider a fiberglass pool. However, this is only one factor to determine which type is best for your needs. Talk to your local pool construction company to discuss all the factors when it comes to deciding the best pool for your home.

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

Natural or Contemporary Options for Your Spa

Adding a spa to your patio or to compliment your swimming pool can create a wonderful place to relax. Spas offer health benefits for aching muscles and swollen joints, as well as a calming experience to relieve stress for a healthier heart. Any quality spa can be enjoyable, but you also want it to blend into your outdoor space and design. Whether you have natural elements or a modern look, you can find the right spa design to match your style.

Natural Spa Designs

If your pool deck, landscaping and patio embrace a natural look, you will want your spa to have the same type of appeal. Using natural stone is very popular for spas. Travertine can be a wonderful covering for the exterior of the spa – there are also other natural stone surfaces that can create a blissful setting for your spa, helping it look more like a natural pond versus a man-made spa.

Contemporary or Modern Spa Designs

Pool areas or outdoor spaces with clean, modern lines will need a spa that matches that style. Luckily, an experienced spa designer can create a gorgeous spa that uses the minimal modern design aspects to blend with any contemporary outdoor space. Concrete, tile, glass and other elements can be used to create a stunning spa that sparkles with color yet fits perfectly in with a modern style home.

Add the luxury and beauty of a spa for your family to enjoy. Talk to your local spa and pool design team to find the right style for your new spa. Whether you love a modern look or want a spa with natural elements, there are design options that will match your tastes.

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

Cool Design Elements for Updating Your Pool

Does your swimming pool have a drab or dull appearance? Or maybe it is bright and brilliant, but you would prefer a softer natural style or a clean, modern look. There is no reason to consider replacing a pool due to style – a few updates can transform your pool. Consider updating your pool with these cool design elements.

Resurface for a New Look

One of the quickest ways to update your pool without much fuss is resurfacing. For older pools with stains and faded areas, a new surface can make them look new again. Resurfacing can also change the color or brilliance of your pool, while protecting the base lining to extend the lifespan.

Rock Work, Waterfalls and Stone Pool Decks

If natural stone is your favorite element for your outdoor spaces, consider adding more stone to your pool area. Pool renovators can add rock work as a backdrop to your pool and spa, or a waterfall with natural stones to create a realistic oasis. Natural stone can also be used around your pool – consider a gorgeous marble or travertine pool deck.

Light Up the Nights

Pools are not just for sunbathing – a cool dip on a warm night is a great use of your pool. Plus, your pool is the centerpiece of your outdoor space. Light it up with fiberoptic lighting that can infuse color and light into the night for entertaining after dusk.

Your pool does not need to be boring or outdated. Discuss a pool design upgrade with resurfacing, features, natural stone or new lighting with your local pool renovation specialist. Use one or more options to update your pool and give your outdoor space an enhanced appearance.

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

3 Types of Swimming Pool Filters

The filtering system for your pool is a vital part of maintenance. The better the filtering system, the easier it is to clean and maintain your swimming pool. There are three main types of swimming pool filters used in residential pools, each with their own pros and cons. However, any of the three will work for most pools; choosing which one is up to the homeowner and usually based on their preference for cost, purification and maintenance.

Sand Filters

The oldest and most affordable type of pool filter uses sand to clean the water as it passes through. Sand filters are popular due to their price and simple maintenance. A tank contains a special pool-filtering sand, usually filled about 3/4 of the way full. The size of the tank depends on the size of the pool. Water flows through the tank, leaving behind contaminants in the sand. The sand must be replaced every 3-5 years, but it should be backwashed to clean out debris once a week or after you vacuum your pool.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters

DE filters work similarly to a sand filter, with a tank that contains grids or fingers that is coated with diatomaceous earth (DE). This is a natural substance created from sea shells and silica that is released by sea diatoms and works well to filter out debris from water. DE filters offer better purification of the water, filtering out smaller particles than sand or most cartridge filters. However, it does need replacement more often than sand; usually more DE must be added after each backwashing, which should be done every 4-6 weeks.

Cartridge Filters

Cartridge filters are one of the most commonly used in residential pools, especially newer pools. These filters come in single and multiple element cartridges which filter out particles. Cartridge filters can last several years before they need replacement but do need to be cleaned 2-3 times a year and degreased at least once a year for maintenance.

If you are installing a new pool or considering changing your filtration system, contact your local pool service to learn more about your options.

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

4 Elements that can Damage Your Pool Surface

Pool surfaces protect the shell underneath from leaks and damage, plus add beauty and safety for swimmers. Most pool coatings can last for several years or more, depending on the type of surface you choose. However, every surface is impacted by certain elements, causing wear and tear over the years. Here are the top four elements that can damage your pool surface, causing aesthetic and safety issues.

  1. Sunlight. You may enjoy laying in the sun at your pool, but those UV rays can be harmful, not just to your skin, but also your pool’s surface material. UV rays can fade and breakdown surfaces, impacting the beauty of your pool.
  2. Poor chemical balance. If your water quality is poor due to fluctuations in the PH balance, it can harm your pool surface. You may notice pitting in the surface caused by chemical imbalance. This can cause the surface to become rough or wear through, increasing the chance for leaks,
  3. Algae and leaves. Algae that grows in your pool water and leaves that fall into your pool can cause dark stains on your pool surface. While a stain does not impact the function of the surface, it is unattractive.
  4. Minerals and rust. Mineral deposits, rust and chemical reactions to metals can leave green, brown or other colored stains on your pool’s surface.

If you begin to notice your pool’s surface is wearing through, stained or you are concerned you are leaking water, contact a pool renovation professional. They can inspect your pool and discuss the options for resurfacing your pool. It can protect your pool and make it look like new again – ask about pool surfaces that are designed to resist fading and last longer for the best value.

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

Take a Break from Pool Cleaning

Has your pool become more of a chore than a place to chill? Swimming pools are a wonderful luxury to have at your home, but they do require ongoing maintenance. Cleaning, chemical balance, repairs and other pool chores can take hours of your free time each week. If you want to spend more time enjoying your pool instead of maintaining it, give yourself the gift of a pool cleaning service.

Many people do their own pool maintenance to save money. However, it is not easy or cheap to maintain your pool on your own. Scrubbing pool walls, scooping out debris, checking the water quality and adding the right chemicals need to be done constantly. Plus, filters need backwashing or replacing, and your pool pump and other equipment needs maintenance. Why not just hire a professional?

Pool Services May Cost Less Than You Think

It may seem like hiring a pool service is a waste of money, but you may be surprised on what the real cost is compared to doing your own maintenance. If you care for your own pool, you need to buy chemicals, equipment and use your valuable time to clean, drive to the pool supply store and complete weekly maintenance. When you add up the cost to do it yourself and look at the price of a professional pool service, it is more affordable than you may have thought. Plus, a professional pool service can help ensure your pool equipment is maintained, extending the life of pumps and other items that can be costly to replace.

Give yourself a break from pool cleaning and hire a professional. It is more affordable than you may believe and is worth every penny to give you more time to enjoy your life.

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

5 Ways to Improve the Safety of Your Pool

Enjoying your swimming pool with friends and family is easier when you know your pool is prepared for safety. Pools offer a wonderful way to relax, cool off and exercise, but they do pose a risk when safety is not a priority. Here are five ways to improve the safety of your pool to ensure everyone is protected from injury and health concerns.

  1. Water quality. Maintaining the right chemical balance keeps your pool water safe. Harmful bacteria can grow in pools with poor water quality. Make sure to check your pool regularly or hire a pool service to maintain your pool.
  2. Life preservers and floats. Even if everyone in your household can swim, you may have guests that are not great swimmers. Every pool should have life preservers and floats to aid someone struggling to stay afloat.
  3. Maintain pool equipment. Inspect and repair pool ladders, loose pool deck tiles and other equipment regularly to avoid injuries.
  4. Add a fence. Your pool should have a fence to keep it off limits to pets, neighbors and children when not supervised by you or another adult. Your pool fence should have a self-closing, self-locking gate.
  5. Check your pool drain covers. Broken drain covers can cause suction that can hold a child or small person underwater. Drain covers should be replaced if they are cracked or have loose screws and should be rounded in design.

Keep your pool safe for everyone by following these tips. Your local pool service can help you repair and maintain your pool to ensure it is a safe, healthy place to enjoy time with your friends and family.

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

Why Does My Pool Water Change Color?

When you were picking out the design and surface of your swimming pool, one of the factors you may have considered is how to make your pool water sparkle. Whether you wanted a deep blue or aqua like a lagoon, or a clear effervescent of a tide pool, you may be disappointed that the results did not quite meet your expectations. Your pool water may change color, both with time of day and depth. Here are some of the factors that can impact the color of your pool water.

Sunshine, Clouds and Dusk

One of the most impactful elements on your pool water is the sky. Your pool will look different in the bright sunshine versus a cloudy day. For most pools, the sunshine paired with a blue sky will bring out the best colors and make it closest to the shade you desire.

Depths of the Pool

A spa and pool with the same surface will have different colors of water, as will the shallow and deep ends of your pool. Depth impacts the color; only pools with even depth will have the same appearance throughout the length of the pool.

Glass, Quartz and Stone Beads

To achieve the best color reflections from your pool’s surface back into the water, choose surfaces that incorporate glass, quartz or stone beads. These accents can help create dazzling colors in your pool for the highest level of aesthetics.

If it is time to resurface your pool or you are choosing the materials for your new pool, keep in mind the pictures in pool catalogs only show one aspect of how the pool water will look. Talk to your pool contractor about the different options to obtain the closest recreation to the pool color you desire.

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

Hot Trends for a Cool Pool

Do you want a new swimming pool that transcends your backyard into a modern aqua oasis? If you are considering renovating your old pool or are ready to finally add a pool to your property, there are innovative options to create a stunning centerpiece for your yard. Consider these hot trends in pool design to add value and beauty to your home, giving you the coolest pool in the neighborhood.

Raised Pool Edges

While infinity pool edges drop off into the horizon, a raised pool edge gives you a spectacular enclosure to your pool. This design creates a well-formed outline of your pool and a perfect place to sit while entering or exiting the pool. This can also be an ideal way to add in a swim-up bar that is common at beach resorts, creating your own vacation spot in your backyard and a big hit at pool parties.

Darker Pool Colors

A dramatic look for your new pool can be accomplished using darker colors. Consider navy blues, dark grays or even black for the interior to give your pool a unique look that embodies depth and tranquility, versus the conventional lighter colors.

Uniform Depth

If your pool will be used by mostly adults or older children, consider a uniform depth pool. This gives a longer swimming area for achieving cardio benefits and has the added benefit of using less energy to keep heated.

There is no reason to settle for generic pool. Looking for more ideas to create a unique and trendy pool for your home? Contact your local pool design specialist to learn more about the latest trends in pool design and renovation options.

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