5 Myths About Chlorine in Pools

April 8th, 2019 Posted in Pool Maintenance
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Everyone knows chlorine is used in most swimming pools to keep the water safe. However, you may be wrong about many other commonly held beliefs about chlorine. This chemical is strong enough to help control bacteria and other organisms that can make water unsafe for swimming and should be rinsed away after swimming to reduce damage to skin and hair. However, there are some beliefs about this popular pool chemical that are false, including these five myths.

  1. If the odor of chlorine is strong, there is too much in the pool. The smell of chlorine is what occurs when chlorine is evaporating, after it has done its job. In some cases, the smell of chlorine means the pool needs more, not less, of this chemical.
  2. Chlorine turns blonde hair green. No, chlorine is not the substance in pools that can give your hair an unwanted tinge of green. Copper is the culprit that can make blonde hair green.
  3. Chlorine stings your eyes if you open them under water. If it stings to open your eyes under water in a pool, this is not the fault of chlorine. Once again, you may not have enough chlorine as this is a symptom of unbalanced PH levels.
  4. Saltwater pools do not need chlorine. While saltwater pools require much less chlorine, they still use chlorine for shocking and chlorine is made naturally with salt.
  5. Swimmer’s ear is caused by chlorine. A clean, sanitized pool with chlorine is not the cause of swimmer’s ear. This condition is caused by pseudomonas aeruginosa – a common pathogen in pools.

Keeping your chlorine levels balanced is one of the best ways to maintain a safe, healthy swimming pool. Forget these myths about chlorine and talk to your local pool service about the proper way to use chlorine or chlorine alternatives to keep your pool water safe.

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

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Tips to Make Your Next Pool Party a Hit

April 8th, 2019 Posted in Pool Safety
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If you are planning a pool party at your home, you want everything to go perfectly. You want to have refreshing beverages and tasty poolside treats for your guests, as well as music and a festive vibe. While concocting a signature beverage for your party can be fun, you first need to think about the basics. Safety is the true key to making your pool party a hit, not what you serve to your guests. Here are some tips to ensure your pool will be ready for your party.

Give It a Deep Cleaning

Having many people in your pool is bound to push the PH balance to the limit. Give your pool a head start, with thorough, deep cleaning. You may want to hire a local pool company to scrub it down and balance the water to ensure it is ready for the extra stress on your pool. You also need to make sure the pool deck is squeaky clean to avoid slips and falls.

Inspect Your Pool Area

Check to make sure there is nothing that needs repair around your pool. Inspect railings, ladders and all equipment to make sure everything is sturdy and in good shape. You should have life preservers available in case of an emergency.

Appoint a Pool Supervisor

While you may not need an actual lifeguard, it is a good idea to have someone in charge of keeping an eye on the pool. Whether you will have kids at your party, or adults who may not be great swimmers, you want someone in charge of making sure everyone stays safe in the water.

Safety should always be the first priority at a pool party. Make sure the pool is clean and you have the safety precautions in place to ensure your next pool party is a hit.

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

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Maintaining a Sand Pool Filter

February 26th, 2019 Posted in Pool Maintenance
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Sand filters are an economical option for cleaning and maintaining the water in your pool. Rough sand is effective at removing dirt, algae and debris that accumulate in your pool water from swimmers and the environment. Water flows through the container of sand, leaving behind the contaminants in the sand. To maintain your sand filter, you will need to clean it every so often to ensure it keeps working.

Sand Filter Cleaning Frequency

How often you will need to clean your sand filter depends on how much you use your pool and other factors. The number of people that swim in your pool on a regular basis will impact how quickly the filter gets full of debris. Leaves, pine needles, algae and other environmental debris can also clog the filter. To determine when to clean your filter, you need to keep an eye on the filter and your pool water.

  • Filter Indications. Your filter needs to be cleaned when the pressure becomes higher, indicating more dirt is in the sand. For filters that have an inlet and outlet pressure gauge, a psi of 16 or higher means it is time to clean. Filters with just an inlet gauge should be cleaned at 8 psi or higher.
  • Water changes. Another indicator your filter needs to be cleaned is when the water becomes cloudy or unclear. Dirty water is usually caused by a dirty filter.

Cleaning a sand filter requires backwashing your system to force water the opposite direction, pushing out the dirt and debris into the waste water. You can do this yourself or contact your local pool service to clean your pool and sand filter for you.

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

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4 Benefits of Updating Your Concrete Pool Deck

February 26th, 2019 Posted in Pool Remodeling
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Many pools are constructed with a simple concrete pool deck when they are built. While perfectly functional, the gray concrete can leave quite a bit to be desired when it comes to style and comfort. If you are looking for a way to improve your pool area, you may be surprised what a difference updating your concrete pool deck can make. Here are four benefits of upgrading to a new style for your pool deck.

  1. Foot and knee comfort. Concrete can be rough on feet and knees. Options like stone pavers are gentler on the feet and are less likely to scrape knees when climbing out of the pool onto the pool deck.
  2. Add color. Pool deck coverings can be bright and beautiful. Choose from many different color options with tile or pavers to give your blue pool a delightful border.
  3. Patterns. Tired of the plain, gray pool deck? Your pool deck designer can help you choose interesting patterns for your new pool deck that will enhance the style of your pool area.
  4. Value. When it comes to the value of your home, your pool area can have a significant impact. Updating your pool deck can add value and beauty to your home that may serve you well if you decide to sell your home.

There are many options available for new surfaces for your pool deck that can improve the look and even make it easier to maintain. Contact your local pool remodeling contractor to begin exploring all the different materials, colors and designs to upgrade your pool deck for a new style for your outdoor area.

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

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Choose the Pool Waterfall to Match Your Style

February 26th, 2019 Posted in Pool Remodeling
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Do you want to upgrade your swimming pool with a waterfall? You may already have an image in mind of the waterfall you want, but you may not realize how many different options are available for pool waterfalls. From large, cascading “natural” waterfalls to contemporary designs that offer an artistic spray of water, you can find a waterfall that will match your style and add the movement and sound you want for your pool area.

Modern Arch Waterfalls

If you have a sleek or modern pool design, you may want to match your waterfall to your pool style with an arch design. These waterfalls are more like a spout that pours and arches water into the pool. The spouts come in many shapes and sizes, offering an artistic option to add water movement in your pool.

Traditional Rainforest Waterfall

For the traditional natural waterfall that cascades over rocks into your pool, you want a rainforest waterfall. These can be a small formation of rocks on the ledge of your pool or a large wall of boulders that showers water with a relaxing sound of moving, splashing water.

Water Wall or Water Curtain

Another option that is popular is the water wall or curtain. This uses a straight line of water that flows directly down, creating the wall or curtain of water. The sound is amazing and the design compliments many of the more modern pool designs like infinity pools.

To explore all the different options available in waterfalls and water features for your pool, contact your local pool remodeling contractor. You can find the perfect waterfall to match your style and improve the beauty of your pool area.

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

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The Science of Finding a Pool Leak

February 26th, 2019 Posted in Pool Leaks
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Eventually, every pool will have a leak. It may be small, or it could be significant, but the design of encasing hundreds of gallons of water is bound to fail at one point or another. A pool can last for many years without a leak, but when one does finally occur, the best solution is detecting and repairing it as quickly as possible. A minor leak will only get worse if not repaired. The key is having a pool leak detection expert use the latest technology and methods to find the leak fast, so repair work can begin.

Throw Away the Bucket

The old “bucket test” is still viable for a pool owner to check if their pool is losing water, but it is far from accurate. There are many factors that can impact your water level on your pool, including evaporation and usage. When it comes to finding a pool leak, you want a pool leak specialist that has a scientific method for recognizing a pool leak and determining where it is located.

Pool leak specialists can use a computerized water measuring device that will indicate whether water is being lost in minutes – no waiting for days to measure the water in a bucket. They can also use tools to check the water pressure in the plumbing. Knowing how much the pool is leaking and narrowing down whether it is in the pool or in the plumbing is the first step in pinpointing the leak and ensuring it is repaired quickly.

If you are concerned that you have a pool leak, contact a pool leak specialist that uses the latest technology and tools to quickly find leaks and complete the repair.

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

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Are Auto Pool Cleaners Effective?

January 23rd, 2019 Posted in Pool Maintenance
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Keeping a clean pool can be a major chore. Manual cleaners and vacuums can do a terrific job cleaning your pool, but they are time consuming if you clean your pool yourself. Another DIY option is an auto pool cleaner. There are several types of auto pool cleaners that can reduce the manual labor needed to keep your pool clean, including robotic, suction and pressure models. But there are issues that can occur with these auto pool cleaners. Knowing the limits of these devices can help you determine whether they are the right option for your pool cleaning needs.

Cleaning Ability

An auto pool cleaner can help reduce the amount of the manual cleaning needed and reduce strain on the pool filtration systems. They collect and remove debris and can help keep a pool maintained. However, they do not all scrub the walls and there are areas they do not reach that will still need manual cleaning.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Auto pool cleaners can help reduce the amount of time you spend cleaning your pool, but they do need maintenance and repairs. Common issues that occur can include the hose becoming tangled, clogged filters, clogged pumps and broken parts. Auto pool cleaners are one more piece of equipment that will need maintenance and repairs as part of the upkeep of your pool.

While auto cleaners can be effective, manual cleaning is still needed for areas they do not reach and for scrubbing the walls. A pool service can be another way to keep your pool clean without spending hours of your free time each week. Talk to your local pool service about options in auto pool cleaners and ongoing pool service to decide which would be better for your needs.

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

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Sell Your Home Faster with Pool Resurfacing

January 23rd, 2019 Posted in Pool Remodeling
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The aesthetic elements of your home make a significant difference when you are trying to sell your home, including your swimming pool. While your pool may be in good condition, if it has surface stains or a faded surface, it can impact the appearance. One improvement you can make that will enhance the overall beauty and desirability of your home is pool resurfacing, helping you sell your home faster.

Aesthetic Impressions Impact Home Buyers

It is not just curb appeal that is important for selling a home. Buyers are impacted on many aesthetic features, from the kitchen and living areas to your backyard and pool. The aesthetic impression when a buyer views your home may not be as important as size, location and price, but it does differentiate your home from others that are similar.

Resurfacing a worn-looking pool can help buyers envision enjoying your home as their own. It enhances the aesthetics of the outdoor space, which is one of the factors that can make a home more desirable over others in the same area and size class. The investment can pay off by enticing buyers to pick your home as their preferred choice, helping you sell quicker in a competitive home selling market.

If you are planning on selling your home and your pool has a deteriorating surface, consider resurfacing before your put your home on the market. It can enhance the beauty and value of your home, which can lead to more interested buyers and bids for your home. Talk to your local pool remodeling contractor to learn about cost-effective options for resurfacing and make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

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

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Options for Keeping Your Pool Energy Efficient

January 23rd, 2019 Posted in Pool Management
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One of the downfalls of owning a pool is the big water and energy bills that occur during the swimming season. While the cost may be worth the many benefits of owning a pool, everyone likes to save money. There are ways to make your pool more energy efficient, reducing your energy bill and helping conserve natural resources. Here are some of the top ways to make your pool energy efficient.

  • Use your pool cover. Pool covers not only help keep your pool clean, they also can help insulate your pool. This can reduce the energy needed for heating your pool and decrease the amount of evaporation. Use your pool cover whenever your pool is not in use.
  • Keep your filters clean. A clean pool filter helps improve the flow and circulation of the pool, putting less strain on your pool pump.
  • Efficient pump. Talk to your local pool service about energy-efficient pool pumps that can use less energy. Also, running your cycles on off-peak hours can help reduce energy costs.
  • Check your thermostat. Are you warming up your water more than needed? Set your thermostat for your pool heater to decrease heating when not in use. Also, keeping your pool water cooler can help reduce algae growth while reducing your energy costs.
  • Keep up with pool maintenance. A well-maintained pool will run more efficiently. Makes sure your pump and other equipment get regular service and that the pool is kept clean for improved efficiency.

Keeping up with pool maintenance, cleaning and proactive efforts to use less energy can make your pool more affordable. Ask your local pool service for more tips on how to save money on your pool energy costs.

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

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When is the Best Time to Open Your Pool?

January 23rd, 2019 Posted in Pool Maintenance
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The last Saturday in April is National Pool Opening Day, but that is not necessarily when everyone opens their pools. Different regions tend to open their pools earlier or later, depending on the weather. While each year may vary, there are standard times when different areas tend to open their pools. Here are some approximate best times in different states to open your pool.

  • Early and mid-June: Montana, northern Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, northern New York, northern Vermont, northern New Hampshire and northern Maine
  • End of May: Eastern Idaho, northern Colorado, southern Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, SE Wisconsin, northern Michigan, southern Vermont, southern New Hampshire, mid New York and southern Maine
  • May 14th: NE Washington, NE Oregon, western Idaho, NE Nevada, Utah, Southern Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, southern Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, northern West Virginia and Pennsylvania, southern New York, Connecticut and Maryland
  • April 30th: Mid Washington, Mid Oregon, Western Nevada, Northern Arizona, Northern New Mexico, Oklahoma, Northern Mississippi, northern Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, New Jersey, Delaware, Virginia and West Virginia
  • April 15th: Western Washington, Western Oregon, Eastern California, Southern Nevada, northern Texas, Louisiana, southern Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina
  • End of March: Mid California, Southern Arizona, Southern New Mexico, Texas, Florida and southern portion of Louisiana
  • Year-Round: Southern Florida, Texas and California

When it is time to open your pool, make it easy with a quick call to your local pool service. They can perform the cleaning, maintenance and needed service to get your pool ready for your opening day pool party and ensure it is ready for the swimming season ahead.

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

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