Posts Tagged ‘home renovation’

Swimming Pool Trends You Can Rely On

Saturday, March 5th, 2011

If you are lucky enough to already have a pool on your property, why not revitalize it by adding a few modern features? On the other hand, if you have budgeted to afford the installation of an in-ground pool, consider some of the latest enhancements to your design. By including interesting characteristics, such as fiber optic lighting or a water fountain, you can add a few dollars to the resale value of your property. Plus, in the meantime, you and your family get to enjoy it all.

Saltwater Pools

The use of saltwater, instead of freshwater, in a swimming pool has been around for a long time, only now becoming more popular. Homeowners like salt water pools for the natural factor – there are no chemicals added to the water. The pool is filled with freshwater, a special salt cell system is used and salt is added to the water. As the salt dissolves and the water runs through the cell, the salt molecule is split into chlorine and sodium. The result is clean water that will not burn eyes, discolor hair or stain fabric. When the pool is drained, there are no harmful chemicals released into the environment; in fact, the water can even be safely drunk. The start up costs are a little higher, but the maintenance costs are much less than traditional freshwater pools.

Beach Entries

For those who are constructing a brand new pool on their property, consider a beach style entry. Despite the name, this type of pool entry does not include sand. It refers to a gradual sloping walkway into the pool. With each step the swimmer moves deeper into the water. This is a wonderful feature for those who find entering a pool troublesome, such as the elderly or physically disabled. Families with young children will also appreciate a beach entry to the pool as they can gently walk into the water holding an adult’s hand instead of being carried down a ladder or steps.

Water Fountains

Fountains and rock waterfalls that feed into your pool are a great way to ambiance to the pool area. There are several other benefits as well. The gentle sound of running water creates a sound barrier, which will in turn give you some privacy in the pool. Conversations are not as easily overheard by nosy neighbors. The constant flow of water through a fountain or waterfall into your pool also helps to keep the water clean. The water is constantly moving, preventing stagnant areas from developing. These water features can be very simple or very elaborate. If you have an existing pool, a fountain or waterfall can be added depending on the size and shape of your pool.

Lighting

The technology enabling Light-Emitting Diode (LED) lighting has been around for over a century, but its practical use was not discovered until 2006. Since then, the LED market has exploded with these long lasting, durable light sources being used in almost any application – including the swimming pool. They are great for pool lighting simple because of their long life but also because they do not produce a lot of heat. Fiber Optic pool lighting is the most cutting edge light feature to hit the market. The effect is incredible with fiber optics. There are a multitude of colors to choose from, even color changing fiber optics that rotate through a set pattern.

Edging

No, not lawn edging or hedge edging- swimming pool edging! Many resorts and high-end hotels have opted for an infinity edge pool, and now the feature is becoming increasingly appealing to families designing their own pool. The infinity edge is constructed so that water flows over the side of the pool and is caught in a basin, much like a moat. The water is re-circulated through the pool, which in turn aids in keeping the water clean.

Specialty Features

This is a fairly broad category. As homeowners look for more bang for their buck they want their special needs met. For example, they may request a pool be constructed in a non-traditional shape in order to fit a certain area of the property. Or perhaps, the use of high-end glass tiles will be requested. Glass tiles are available in many colors and effects, all of which create a highly customized look to the pool. Pool decks are another area where special features care being asked for. For families with children, fences and locking gates are a popular demand. These safety features no longer need to be the mundane chain-link fence that ruins the look of the whole pool area. There are now opportunities to have nicely stylized wrought iron fences and gates, or beautiful custom wood barriers.

The world of residential swimming pools is so much more now than it was in the 1960’s, when the trend of privatized pools began. Chlorine treated water is no longer the only choice, lighting is far more dramatic and water features aren’t’ just for celebrities homes anymore. If you are considering an upgrade to your existing pool or want to put in a new one, take a look at all the new trends. There is a lot to choose from.

By partnering with top leaders within the swimming pool industry, Reliable Pool Solutions, Inc. is designed to bring together the strongest team of swimming pool professionals who are leading the business today. We enable our customers access to the highest quality of swimming pool equipment at the best prices available, without sacrificing service. For more information about pool pumps, filters, heaters and cleaners, visit us online!

Salt Water Pool vs. Fresh Water Pool

Friday, January 28th, 2011

So you have decided to get a swimming pool. Visions of lounging in your backyard watching the kids frolic in the water while you sip lemonade fill your thoughts on a cold wintery day. The family is excited about the thought of spending the summer poolside in their own yard, having pool parties and generally being the host of the neighborhood. Then a friend mentions the Australian trend of salt water swimming pools in residential applications. Besides the obvious, what is the difference? Is one better than the other? Let’s take a look.

Fresh water pools are the most common kind of swimming pool in North America and are usually filled with ordinary tap water. The water is treated with chemicals to kill bacteria and prevent plants from growing. Chlorine is one of the chemicals added to the water, so pH levels need to be checked often. Too much chlorine will sting the eyes and damage hair. Too little will allow algae to grow, or harmful bacteria to thrive in the water. Chlorine needs to be added carefully in order to create the best conditions for swimming. Fresh water pools are fairly common in Europe and North America. They are easy to set up, initially less expensive than the salt water pool, but do require more maintenance. The chlorine used in a fresh water pool can smell bad, as well as irritate the skin and eyes. Sometimes blonde hair turns green after being in a fresh water pool

Salt water pools are not filled with sea water. They are initially more expensive to set up and large quantities of salt are used to ensure the proper sodium balance in the water. They use a salt and titanium electrode to clean and condition the water, via a pool salt cell installed on your equipment. The pool is filled with tap water and, for a standard sized pool, 250 kg of raw salt is added. Once the pump is on, the water runs through the filter, whose purpose it is to split the salt molecules into two separate molecules: sodium and chlorine. Like the fresh water pool, the water in a salt water pool must be monitored. When chlorine levels drop, it is rare that more salt must be added. Usually increasing the chlorine levels in your pool is as simple as turning a dial on the salt control unit. Maybe about once a year the salt content needs to be added depending on use and if water has splashed out of the pool. The biggest advantage of a salt water pool is the absence of chemicals. The water is better for the environment and the swimmer as there is no eye, skin or hair irritation. In fact the salt levels in the water after filtration are so low that the water can be safely drank or used to water plants, however we don’t usually recommend that. The chlorine generated by the specialized salt unit is not as harsh as the chlorine used in fresh water pools. It does not fade clothing, dry out the skin or turn light colored hair green. The disadvantage to having a salt water pool is the effect of the salt on the surroundings. Dark bricks or asphalt can become stained with salt rings. Most people think their skin feels softer after swimming in a salt water pool as it is very similar to water softeners in homes.

The decision to install a pool in your backyard always comes with a budget. Consider the budget when looking at types of pools. Fresh water pools are cheaper at the outset, but require frequent maintenance and monitoring. Salt water pools are more expensive to install, but do not require as many maintenance costs as fresh water. Still needing to check the water chemistry levels every week seems daunting, but it need not happen more than once a week. The cost of pool toys, equipment and swimwear is also part of the equation. You will go through more with a fresh water pool than a salt water pool because the chemical version of chlorine eats through plastics and fabrics. The environmental factor is also important. Harsh chemicals used in fresh water pools do find their way into the ground, and our bodies. There are no chemicals in salt water pools, so the water is even safe enough for drinking.

Finally, no matter what your decision ends up being for a pool, always budget for safety equipment. Life jackets for small children, safety fences and locking gates, a comprehensive first aid kit and cpr training for adults and older children in the house. Set clear rules with the whole family, perhaps instilling a buddy-system for swimming. No pool is fun if it becomes a hazard.

By partnering with top leaders within the swimming pool industry, Reliable Pool Solutions, Inc. is designed to bring together the strongest team of swimming pool professionals who are leading the business today. We enable our customers access to the highest quality of swimming pool equipment at the best prices available, without sacrificing service. For more information about pool pumps, filters, heaters and cleaners, visit us online!

3 Ways To Curb Your Pool’s Energy Consumption

Thursday, October 28th, 2010

Whether you’re interested in saving money on your energy bills or passionate about the idea of making your home as “green” as possible, you’ll be glad to hear there are several inexpensive and easy things you can do to curb your pool’s energy consumption.

As more and more consumers have expressed interest in lowering the energy required for maintaining their home swimming pools, manufacturers of swimming pool equipment have started to produce a variety of greener and low-energy consumption products, including LED pool lighting, lower emission heaters, and pumps with variable speeds. Unfortunately, in order to take advantage of these new products you would be required to replace your older equipment which may still in good shape.

It’s possible to continue to use your existing equipment and still make headway on pool energy consumption. Through the inclusion of some energy-efficient additions, your existing equipment can get you significantly closer to your energy-savings goals.

Pool Pumps

Performing a pool energy audit is not a bad idea, as this will give you a realistic image of the impact your pool has on your monthly energy costs. More than likely, such an audit is going to show that your swimming pool pump is larger than it needs to be. Most of the time, the pump is about 25 percent larger than necessary, meaning that you can adjust the energy consumed by your pool by simply adjusting the number of hours your pump runs and the time of day at which it will run.

A very important factor to consider when reducing the number of hours your pool pump will run in to first determine what the minimum hours per day your pool pump needs to operate and still be sufficient. A typical residential pool should turn over its own volume of water once each day. For example, if you have a 1.5-horsepower pump that will flow 60 gallons per minute, in a typical one day 8 hour cycle, your pump will have turned over 28,800 gallons of water in one 8 hour cycle. The average size of many residential pools is 20,000 gallons. Also consider running your pool pump during off peak hours as many utility companies offer a less expensive rate of electricity usage during these hours. If, for instance, you find that after you reduce the number of hours your pump is running and that is a direct result of more algae growth, tack on one additional hour at a time to see how your pool will respond. Every pool is unique due to size, shape, pool equipment, landscape, geographical location and various climates throughout the country. Nothing matches the savings from a new variable speed pump, but in this tough economy the small adjustments to the existing pump will add up over time.

To quickly calculate the number of gallons within your swimming pool simply follow this formula; length x width x average depth x 7.48 (number of gallons in one cubic foot) = average total gallons in your pool. These few calculations will amount to long-term savings you’ll see on energy bills are well worth it.

Pool Lighting

A rheostat, or dimmer switch, can be used with your pool lights, allowing you to cut down on your pool lighting expense without requiring the purchase of new lighting system. While the incandescent bulbs currently in your swimming pool will eventually need to be replaced with LED lighting or a similarly more efficient lighting system, you can put off that expense until later down the road.

Though there will be costs incurred with the installation of a dimmer switch, paying a professional electrician for this job will still be less expensive than purchasing new pool lighting. It will also allow you to immediately begin saving funds on your monthly energy bills.

Pool Covers

There are a variety of newer ways by which to make your swimming pool more energy efficient, but you should not underestimate the importance of using a pool cover. While the pool cover serves numerous purposes, the least of which is keeping your pool free of debris, it can significantly reduce your energy expenses as well.

Water which evaporates from your pool is by far the most expensive of your energy costs associated with your pool. Not only must you pay for replacing the water itself, but you must also reheat new water. Maintaining a consistent water temperature is far less expensive than raising the temperature of new water to comfort level.

Outdoor evaporation varies depending on weather conditions and there are certainly landscaping changes you can make which will lessen the amount of evaporation your experience. Adding a good pool cover goes a long way toward reducing evaporation-related expenses for your outdoor pool.

While indoor pools are not affected in the same manner by environmental conditions, they still lose a substantial amount of energy to evaporation. Evaporated water inside requires air conditioning and dehumidification systems to work overtime, wasting energy and raising your energy bills, if you do not use a good pool cover.

Using a pool cover with your indoor pool reduces the amount of evaporation. It also allows you to save funds on air conditioning. You can also turn off your exhaust fans while the cover is on, as there is no need to remove the excessive humidity produced by the swimming pool.

By partnering with top leaders within the swimming pool industry, Reliable Pool Solutions, Inc. is designed to bring together the strongest team of swimming pool professionals who are leading the business today. We enable our customers access to the highest quality of swimming pool equipment at the best prices available, without sacrificing service. For more information about pool pumps, filters, heaters and cleaners, visit us online!

When Should I Drain My Swimming Pool?

Friday, August 20th, 2010

Part of proper pool care is understanding under what circumstances you should drain your pool. Generally speaking, there is no consistent need to drain a pool, though there are very specific circumstances under which draining is required in order to keep the water in your pool healthy for you, your family, and your guests.

Saltwater swimming pools have become fairly popular. Many individuals who own saltwater pools can add too much salt to the water. The normal content should be between 2,700 and 3,500 parts per million. If you add too much salt to the pool, you will need to drain the pool and start over in order to fix the issue. Once salt is added to a pool, it will not evaporate. The initially balanced salt water will remain balanced without the need for additional salt to be added.

Many owners make the mistake of adding salt to their swimming pool to correct an imbalanced chlorine reading. They believe that by adding more salt, they can correct the problem which is not the case. This common mistake leads to the need to drain and refill the pool in order to establish a proper salt balance again as the additional salt will throw the sodium parts per million balance out of whack. It will remain out of balance as the salt will never evaporate.

There are very few instances in which the salt content in the pool will become unbalanced. Usually, it results from human error, as is the case where owners add more salt when none is needed. In this case, the salt content becomes too high and the pool must be drained and refilled in order to correct the issue.

In other cases, the salt content can drop too low and require more salt to be added. This usually occurs when the pool has overflowed after heavy rain storms. The overflow will wash out some of the salt that was initially contained in the pool water, leaving the salt parts per million reading too low. The level can also drop too low if lots of water is splashed from the pool by playful swimmers.

More often than not, saltwater pool owners make the mistake of adding too much salt to the water because the chlorine reading is off. If the salt cell in the pool needs to be serviced or cleaned, this can affect the reading. You should have the salt cell examined before you add more salt to the pool. In doing so, you can save yourself a lot of trouble and expense in the long run.

Swimming pools can also require draining if the Total Dissolved Solvents (TDS) reading becomes too high. The TDS reading measures chemicals that dissolve in your pool. They can consist of any variety of foreign substances that contaminate your swimming pool water. The most common chemicals are those that accumulate in the water over time from normal human use. These include skin lotions, hair product residue, human sweat and sunscreen.

If you use your swimming pool a lot then the TDS level can increase quite rapidly. The total volume of the pool itself will also have an impact on how quickly the TDS level will become too high. Smaller pools that are frequently used will require draining more often than those that are large or rarely used. If you commonly throw pool parties during which your pool gets a pretty heavy workout, odds are you will need to drain your pool a little more often.

Many people mistakenly think that the TDS level will be kept to a minimum through natural evaporation of water from their pool. When water evaporates from your pool, you lose the cleanest and purest water only. That means that the chemicals and contaminants that collect in your pool water due to normal use are always left behind.

Over time, these contaminants build up to a level that is too high. The only way to eliminate the chemicals from your pool is to drain it and refill it with new, pure water. The normal, acceptable and healthy range for a TDS reading should be well under 3,000 parts per million. If the reading begins to approach 3,000, you should start planning to drain the pool and start fresh.

You should always think of employing the services of a swimming pool professional in draining and refilling your swimming pool. Whether you have a standard or saltwater pool, you want to ensure that the pool and equipment it requires remain in good working order. Pool professionals have lots of knowledge and experience that will help them keep your pool safe and prevent damage to the pool plaster, tiles and all of your swimming pool equipment.

By partnering with top leaders within the swimming pool industry, Reliable Pool Solutions, Inc. is designed to bring together the strongest team of swimming pool professionals who are leading the business today. We enable our customers access to the highest quality of swimming pool equipment at the best prices available, without sacrificing service. For more information about pool pumps, filters, heaters and cleaners, visit us online!

7 Things To You Should Know About Putting In A Pool

Sunday, August 15th, 2010

A swimming pool in your own backyard may seem like the epitome of luxury and in some ways, it is. Spending the lazy days of summer relaxing in your own swimming pool with no crowds to fight and no scheduled hours to contend with is indeed pleasant. However, a pool is a commitment that requires a fair amount of work and expense in exchange for the privileges. Where you live, how much use your pool will get, and how much time you can commit to its maintenance are all factors that play a role in deciding if you should install a pool.

In-Ground Pools Versus Above-Ground Pools

There are essentially two types of swimming pools, in-ground and above-ground. An in-ground pool is by far the greater expense but it’s typically the longer-lasting choice. An in-ground pool has several advantages over its above-ground counterpart, with the primary advantage being size and varied depth. Conversely, an above-ground pool is typically less of an initial investment and, while limited in size and depth, can be a good alternative. Years ago, above-ground pools were considered less aesthetic; however modern designs have incorporated more varied styles, trim packages and decking that make them considerably more attractive.

Regardless of your preference, your local zoning laws may have a bearing on the type of pool you can have. Smaller lots may be limited by zoning variances and building codes that limit the size of pool you can install. You will need to check with your local building inspector or zoning department to inquire about the rules in your area.

Safety Concerns

Before installing a pool of any type, make sure you have the ability to provide the necessary safety measures. If you have small children in your household or even small children who live nearby, you need to make certain that access to the pool cannot be attained without your knowledge. As a matter of building code, in almost every area a fence is required around the entire perimeter of the pool or portion of the yard where the pool is located. Safety covers and alarms are other safety measures you might consider, especially for in-ground pools. Be sure you’ve thought the safety concerns through before beginning installation. It’s also a good idea to double check with your insurance policy to see if you need to place additional riders on your policy for a pool. These are all valid considerations that also add to the overall expense.

Expense

Obviously, there is an initial expense incurred when installing a pool but be sure you understand that it is a continuous additional expense to operate and maintain. Chemicals, water, energy consumed for running the pump, lighting, and optional heating, as well as maintenance and supply expenses like repairing torn liners, replacing pump parts, and so forth. The expense of maintaining and operating a pool will vary with the size and type of pool but keep in mind it is a routine expense so be sure you can live with it.

Chemical Attraction

There is a dispute among even pool professionals regarding the best type of water sanitizing system. There are basically two options — chlorination and salt water systems. Each one has their advantages and disadvantages, and you should research both options thoroughly to decide what your preference will be. Also keep in mind that you will have to learn a bit about pool water chemistry to keep your pool in clean, operating order. Maintaining pH levels and water clarity as well as proper sanitary levels takes a bit of practice.

Property Value

Having a grip on the expense and maintenance involved with owning a pool is important but you should also keep in mind the overall impact a pool will have on your property. While a pool can be a definite amenity to one homeowner, it in no way guarantees added property value. In fact, some homes experience a reduction in property value as the result of a pool addition. If you live in a warm climate where pools get the most annual use, it can be considered an amenity. However, in cooler climates with defined seasons of just three months, a pool may be considered a liability during resale. If you can live with the consequences either way, invest in what makes you happy now and worry about property value later.

Choosing a Contractor

Whether you hire a swimming pool contractor to dig an in-ground pool or purchase an above-ground pool from a retailer, make sure they stand behind their product. A warranty should be standard and cover all parts for a minimum of one year. Typically, electrical parts will be warrantied for longer.

Also make sure to deal with a contractor or retailer who has experience installing pools in your area and is familiar with codes. A contractor with localized experience and service is a better bet than an unknown out-of-town contractor.

Timing Is Everything

As long as you’ve considered your purchase carefully and have committed to the maintenance, the last thing you should know is that timing the installation is important. While it may seem logical to wait until the weather is at its hottest to install a pool, it may be to your benefit to install in the off season. Some pool retailers offer better pricing in the fall and early spring, and are more likely to schedule the job at your convenience. If you’ve chosen an in-ground pool, keep in mind that most contractors won’t (and shouldn’t) dig in the winter or during the rainy season. Time your decision so you get the best deal but also so you can get the quickest return on your investment.

There is quite a bit of information to cull when considering installing a pool but all things considered, owning a pool can be a very satisfying and rewarding experience that you and your family can enjoy for years to come.

Home Renovation Guide provides free information and advice on all aspects of home renovation topics ranging from roofing to landscaping. Visit online today for toronto flooring information you may need to get the job done right.

7 Things To Consider When Putting In A Pool

Monday, July 26th, 2010

What could be better at the end of a long day at work than a relaxing dip in your own personal pool? It’s a dream for many, and you may be considering installing a pool on your property. In selecting the right pool, there are a number of options you must consider. Making the right choices will ensure that you’re happy with the end result and that you get the most for your money.

You’ll want to determine the location and type of pool well in advance of beginning any installation work. The outdoor pool is more common in the sunbelt states and can be a beautiful addition to compliment any backyard landscape. The outdoor pool variety in these particular regions can only be enjoyed in the warmer months of the year. If you live in a relatively warm region, an outdoor pool may be useful throughout the majority of the year but in colder regions, your use may be limited to only a few months during the spring and summer time. Installing an indoor pool could be your only option for area because of climate reasons that encounter drastic seasonal changes.

For those with the capital to build a climate-controlled enclosure for a pool, it may be the best choice. You’ll be able to enjoy your pool in all weather conditions, regardless of wind, precipitation, or temperature. An indoor pool can be used at any time of day without concern for unfavorable weather conditions and can be enjoyed throughout the entire year. The indoor pool would be a favorable choice if you enjoy aquatic exercising, hydro therapy, or having the ability to maximize the benefits of year around swimming activities.

While the indoor pool is the perfect option for those with the money for such a project, it may not be a viable option for you. Indeed, the majority of people with pools must be satisfied with the outdoor variety due to climate constraints. Regardless of the location you choose, a private pool will cost some money. You should be prepared to invest the money necessary to ensure you have a pool you can enjoy for years to come.

Rushing into a project without adequate planning or research can result in additional costs that you’re not prepared to handle. Taking the time to investigate your options and consider all details will allow you to better plan your finances and complete the project efficiently. After all, you don’t want to find yourself halfway through and without the cash to complete the installation.

Whether you select an outdoor or indoor pool, you’ll need to determine a budget. The budget will dictate the size and shape depending on the space available on your property. Your property size and your financial budget will be the strongest determinant in the location of the pool. If your space or budget is somewhat limited, you may need to settle for a smaller, above-ground pool. This variety still provides you with fun and relaxation and can be the right option for many homeowners. A smaller, above-ground pool or above-ground spa is also one of the most affordable styles to choose, making it a popular choice for those with more limited budgets.

For those with a less constrictive budget and more available space, a in-ground pool or concrete pool is a great option. If you fall into this category, you’ll have a variety of styles and options of pools from which to choose. You have to decide on the depth of the pool as well as the shape and style. Many who choose in-ground pools settle on the standard rectangular variety, however adding a spa to your pool will also add to the cost. All of the in-ground pools are typically customize to suit your style. The custom shape is well suited to most property plots and also works well for those with less square footage of property. Other shapes of pools are available and can be great for those who have larger pieces of property. A kidney-shaped pool or a free formed pool is one of the more popular non-standard options available for in-ground pool designs with many styles to choose.

You may also want to consider putting in a pool house, poolside deck, or other structure. You’ll need to take into consideration the hard landscape finish that should surround the in-ground pool, as well as any landscape lighting or raised bond beams for a much more dramatic affect surrounding the pool.

When considering the type of pool to install, you need to take into account not only the upfront costs associated with the project but the maintenance costs as well. Your long-term financial planning will need to include all the necessary pool treatments, pool equipment maintenance, chemicals, pool cleaning, and other general maintenance requirements that come with owning a pool and keeping it in the best condition possible. All of these factors come into play when it comes to keeping the pool plaster, tile, pool equipment in tip top conditions for many years to come.

The size, depth and shape of the pool will be influenced by many factors. Among these will be your intended use. If you plan your pool for primarily your own family’s entertainment purposes, a smaller, in-ground pool may be perfect. For those who are avid swimmers and enjoy using the pool for exercising, a larger, indoor variety may work best. And for those who enjoy simply having a place for your family to stay cool and refreshed during the summer months, a larger outdoor above-ground pool may be a perfect choice.

While space and monetary constraints may be the largest factors to consider when planning your pool installation, you should not forget the legal requirements associated with such a venture. You’ll need to investigate building codes and regulations regarding pools in your particular city or town. Ensuring you meet the legal requirements of having a pool will save you money and headaches in the long run. It’s always recommended that you consult with a qualified pool contractor or pool builder to make sure all building codes are met and you are in compliance with all the necessary safety regulations to ensure a fun and pleasurable pool experience.

By partnering with top leaders within the swimming pool industry, Reliable Pool Solutions, Inc. is designed to bring together the strongest team of swimming pool professionals who are leading the business today. We enable our customers access to the highest quality of swimming pool equipment at the best prices available, without sacrificing service. For more information about pool pumps, filters, heaters and cleaners, visit us online!