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

Pool Prep Tips for Summer

Once the spring air starts warning up with more sunshine, your mind turns to relaxing in your pool. However, if you close your pool during the winter, it will take some preparation to get it ready for safe swimming. If you are ready to start enjoying lazy days by the pool, here are some tips to get your pool ready for summer.

  • Tend to your filtration system. Your pool water will need to be completely cleaned through your filtration system. To get it ready, make sure your system is ready to go by assembling the parts and checking the filters. Cartridges may need replacement or rinsing – you may need to backwash a sand filter or clean your DE filter. Make sure all components like baskets are clean and free of debris.
  • Fill your pool. It is usually best to leave water in your pool if possible, even when you are not using it. However, you may need to add water to get it full again after a long winter or completely refill it if you did empty it.
  • Water chemical balance. Your pool water should be tested before you begin the chemical process. Your pool service can test your water to determine the chemical balance and mineral concentration. This helps determine the best chemical additions to bring PH balance to the water. Once your pool water is treated, it will need to filter until it is clear – filters may need to be cleaned throughout this process.

Don’t want to go through the hassle of getting your pool ready for swimming? Hire a professional pool service to prepare your pool for the summer swimming season. They can make sure your pool water is safe and perform a full inspection on your equipment to get your ready for summer.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pools, LLC
6538 Collins Ave, #42
Miami Beach, FL 33141
(305) 767-775

5 Things to Do Before Your Pool Party

Are you planning your first big pool party of the year? Make it a success with a little swimming pool maintenance. Pool parties need a little more consideration than the average backyard BBQ – you need to think of safety and make sure all your guests have a good time. Here are five things to do to get your pool ready for your big party.

  1. Clean the pool. You don’t want leaves and debris floating around your pool when guest arrive. A day or two before your shindig, clear out the debris and put on your cover to keep it clean for your party.
  2. Check the PH balance. More people in the pool can affect your pool water PH balance. Make sure it is safe and ready for swimmers by performing PH testing a few days before the party and add chemicals to get it in balance. Check the chemical balance again the night before and adjust as necessary.
  3. Inspect safety equipment. Check your ladders, railings and other safety equipment about a week or more before your party. You want to make sure that everything is solid and ready for your guests – repair anything that is loose or worn before your guests arrive.
  4. Clean the deck. Make sure your pool deck is clean, as well as the pool furniture. No one wants to slip on a slimy spot or sit on a dirty lounger.
  5. Consider the kids. If your party will include youngsters, make sure you have floatation devices, swim vests and a way to keep tiny tots away from the pool.

The best option to get your pool ready for a big party is to call your local pool service for a complete cleaning and inspection. They can ensure your pool is safe and sparkling for your guests.

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

Winter Pool Maintenance Tips

Does your pool close for the winter season? If you live in a cold climate, it definitely is not swimming weather and you want to completely drain and close the pool. However, for warmer regions, your pool is probably just put on stand-by during the cooler months, waiting for spring to arrive. Even when you are not using your pool, it is important to keep up with some maintenance. Here are some tips to make it much easier to open your pool for swimming in the spring.

  • Maintain your cover. Keeping your cover on will help keep your pool cleaner. However, you do need to maintain the cover as well. Sweep off debris, leaves, needles and dirt regularly. If you do get snow, make sure to sweep it off to limit the weight on the cover.
  • Pool chemicals. Even when you are not using your pool, it is important to keep the water chemically balanced. Check the PH at least every two months when not in use and add the needed chemicals to balance the PH.
  • Add enzymes. Using an enzyme product can help breakdown debris that makes its way into the water. This can keep your water cleaner and avoid stains and water rings that would need to be scrubbed off in the spring.
  • Pool equipment. You should keep an eye on your pump, filters and other equipment throughout the winter to avoid damage. Make sure all water is removed if the temperature does drop below freezing.

While there is not as much maintenance needed when you are not using your pool in the winter months, doing periodic pool maintenance can help make it easier when spring does arrive. Ask your local pool service about winter maintenance schedules to reduce repairs and make it simple to open your pool for the swimming season.

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

4 Signs of Trouble in Your Pool

With regular maintenance, pools can last for decades without any major issues. It is easy to become complacent, assuming your pool is working the way it should. However, a small issue can become a big, expensive problem if not fixed right away. Here are four signs you may have a problem with your pool and need professional pool repairs.

  1. Water loss. Although some water loss from use and evaporation is normal, when your pool water level is changing quicker than in the past, you need to investigate. Pool leaks can cause serious damage to your home and property.
  2. Fluctuating PH levels. When your PH levels keep fluctuating, there may be trouble in your pool. Call in a pool expert to find out how to even out your PH levels and keep a sanitized, safe pool. Hiring a pool service for maintenance may be your best bet.
  3. Dirty pool water. Is your pool looking murky or having algae issues? It may be time to clean your filters. All pools have some type of filter system and all of them require ongoing maintenance to keep your pool water clean and safe for swimming.
  4. Loud pool equipment. If your pump or other pool equipment is loud or making strange noises, call in a pool professional. Get a service and inspection to ensure all the equipment is working properly. It is less expensive to replace components as needed than to have a complete failure.

Keeping an eye out for signs of pool issues is important when you own a pool. If you have ongoing pool maintenance, you can relax knowing these issues will be caught by your service team and repaired as needed.

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

Starting Up Your Pool Equipment After Winter

If you put your pool to sleep for the winter, it is time to wake it up. As spring weather comes in, thoughts move toward warmer days by the pool in the months to come. To get your pool ready, it will need to go through some regular maintenance before you begin using it again. The pool will need a thorough cleaning, plus you will need in inspect and maintain your pool equipment. The easiest solution is to call your local pool service to perform a full spring tune up and cleaning. However, if you want to attempt this chore yourself, here are a few tips:

  • Remove debris. Clean away debris from your pool cover, bottom of the pool and around the pool equipment, especially the heater.
  • Inspect all pool equipment. Visually inspect all components including drain covers, filter, pump, heater, lights, chlorinator and automation system.
  • Check your plumbing fittings. Inspect your plumbing fittings and pump lid, including lubricating or replacing o-rings when necessary.
  • Check for leaks. Once you power up your pump, carefully check for any leaks or drips. Tighten connections or replace o-rings where needed.
  • Filter maintenance. Clean your filter cartridge or fill your DE, depending on the type of filter you use.
  • PH balance. Run your pump for several hours, then check and balance the water’s PH balance. Once finished, shock your pool.
  • Check pressure. Makes sure the water pressure on your filter – if not sufficient, you may need to clean or replace filters or backwash.

During any of these steps, you may realize you need a repair to your pool equipment to be ready for summer. You can save time and make sure everything is in good working order by hiring your local pool service to do your start up for you and repair or replace any issues.

Posted on behalf of:
Premier Pool Enterprises
Canton, GA
(494) 496-5579

Keep Your Pool Clean, Healthy and Ready to Use

An invigorating swim in your pool is one of the most pleasurable activities in your day. Let’s face it, it’s a lot more fun swimming in your pool than having to maintain it. There’s so much work involved in keeping your pool clean and all that equipment functioning properly. A professional pool service will help you keep your pool sparkling clean and healthy.

Leave all that work to your local pool service and repair company. Find the highest quality professionals to call when your pool needs servicing. For a pool that will be the envy of your neighbors, you want to make sure that the job is done right, every time.

Your local pool service technicians can provide a variety of services for your swimming pool including:

  • Swimming Pool Construction
  • Pool Remodeling
  • Pool Cleaning and Maintenance
  • Leak Detection
  • Pool Renovations
  • Waterfall Additions
  • Pool Decking

Most pool service companies can schedule cleaning and maintenance on a regular basis. When you need special repairs and maintenance you can count on attention to detail and knowledgeable support that will provide you with care-free swimming pool ownership through this season and years to come.

Need supplies or accessories for your swimming pool?  Many local pool service providers offer a one-stop shopping option by carrying a full line of pool products and supplies as well.

Whether you have just built your dream swimming pool in your yard or enjoying an existing one, a professional pool service will keep your pool clean, maintained and ready for use. Find the local pool repair and service professionals you need to keep your swimming pool in great shape.

Posted on behalf of:
Premier Pool Enterprises
Canton, GA
(494) 496-5579

 

About to Become a Pool Owner? What You Need to Know

There’s no substitute for whiling away the hot summers in your own private swimming pool. Are you considering installing a pool on your property? A licensed and experienced pool construction contractor will evaluate your property and help you choose the ideal pool for you.  A professional pool construction company will design and build a custom swimming pool and spa for your home.

A clean and healthy-looking pool is a tremendous asset to quality living, and adds value to your property as well. Keeping it in good shape will add years to the life of your pool, but not every homeowner has the time or depth of knowledge to stay on top of all that requires.

Your home swimming pool needs regular attention such as checking the filters, water balance, vacuuming and brushing. Equipment should be kept clean and unclogged, and chemicals added as necessary to maintain a healthy swimming environment and prevent algae from forming.

If you are considering buying property with an existing pool. Check to see if the pool is showing signs of wear or staining. You may need to consult your local swimming pool renovation professionals. They can resurface the pool to restore its appeal and can add water features or even a spa to really spice things up.

To keep your new swimming pool looking beautiful and working properly, contact your local pool service and repair professionals. Regular service and maintenance is a lot less expensive than replacing or repairing your pool. Schedule an inspection of your filtration system, leak detection and any other concerns you may have about the condition of your swimming pool.

Posted on behalf of Somar Pools, LLC
Miami Beach, FL
(305) 767-7755

Pool Cleaning: When to Hire a Professional

You like to save money by doing home maintenance yourself, and that includes cleaning your pool. You spend hours each week scooping out debris, checking your PH balance, cleaning filters and adding the right chemicals. While this is all great, are you really keeping your pool as clean as you would like it? Here are a few signs that it may be time to hire a professional to help keep your pool pristine.

  • PH balance is consistently off. Are you always struggling to keep your PH balance at the right levels? This could mean that your cleaning efforts are not as effective as you thought. It could also mean your pump is not working properly. A professional pool service can monitor your chemicals for you, provide superior cleaning and inspect your pump for issues.
  • Your pool is stained. It takes more than just scooping away debris to keep you pool looking great. Stains can be caused by certain metals in the water; a professional pools service can remove those stains and offer preventive treatments to keep future stains away.
  • Your pool water is no longer clear. If you are getting algae formation even with regular home cleanings, you need a professional pool service to help you get this under control. Even if you prefer to do the weekly cleanings yourself, having a pool service clean your pool once a month can help keep these types of issues at bay.

Having a clean pool helps reduce maintenance and repair costs on your pool equipment, plus it ensures that it looks great and is safe for your family. It is worth the investment to have a professional clean your pool at least once a month to keep it clean and healthy.

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

Enjoy A Clean, Safe Pool With A Salt Chlorine Generator

If you own a pool and use chlorine and other chemicals to manage your pH balance, you know how harsh these chemicals can be. Just the smell alone can be noxious, along with eye irritation and damage to your skin and hair. There is a better way to keep your pool safely within the right pH range, with fewer chemicals and less required maintenance to accomplish those goals. A salt chlorine generator can make a significant difference in the quality of your pool water, while requiring less maintenance and chemicals to maintain your pool.

What Is A Salt Chlorine Generator?

The way a salt chlorine generator works is by creating its own chlorine from sodium chloride in the water. To allow this to happen, the water in the pool must first be brought up to a salt-water ratio of at least 3,000 ppm, or 3,000 parts per million, of salt. What the generator does is use this salt concentration to create hydrogen gas and hypochlorous acid by using electrolysis to break the salt particles into these two elements as the water passes through the salt cell. The gas evaporates up through the water, while the hypochlorous acid sanitizes the water. Once the water passes back into the pool, the salt reforms and the process begins over again.

The benefit of this method is that there are fewer chlorine concentrates in the water, creating a more pleasurable swimming experience. For those who are sensitive to chlorine or and are looking for chlorine alternatives, this is a perfect solution. Although pool chemistry must still be monitored, using a salt chlorine generator eliminates the need for many chemicals which are traditionally needed on a weekly basis. To learn more, call your local pool service company to discuss having a new salt generator installed in your pool.

Posted on behalf of Somar Pools, LLC