Posts Tagged ‘Pool maintenance’

Demanding A Pool Heater Now That It Is Cold

Sunday, January 16th, 2011

Especially if you live in any place where it’s going to be cold, you need a pool heater to get by in the winter time or spring time or whenever it happens to be cold where you are. The only problem with swimming outside in the cold is that you will be nice and warm inside the pool but when you get out, you will be freezing because you will just be in a bathing suit.

You may not be one of the lucky ones that has the luxury of having one of those indoor pools right inside your house. That would cost more money than any one could ever imagine. It may sound nice but it may not be the right thing for you to get one of those because you may be having a hard time getting by as it is and does not want to spend that kind of money on a house like that.

Since you may not have a luxury house, their are other places where you can go that may have one like a hotel. The only bad thing about going swimming at a hotel is that you have to pay for a room to be able to use it. Some, if not all, hotels you can’t get into the pool area unless you have a room key, so that leaves you stranded without going swimming.

Most people may not have the guts to go swimming whether they have a heater or not especially if it’s too cold to get out. They might just wait until it’s warmer. Your community pool may be closed until it gets warmer, so it’s always nice to have one in your backyard, no matter how big it is, so you can go swimming any time you please.

Money is a very important object and lately it has been on everyone’s mind especially with the way the economy has turned out to be. While you’re doing a search to see if you can buy one separately, then make sure your also looking at the price. It may be too expensive for you to afford right now, but it could be on one of those websites that sells everything at a cheap price.

If you would rather go swimming inside, then try going to the YMCA if you would rather not pay all that money at the hotel. Going to the YMCA you would only have to pay a few bucks a month and that’s more like it considering what you would have to pay if you were to go to a hotel.

Instead of driving to a hotel only to be disappointed by finding out how much it would cost to throw a party or to just go for a swim, think about where you can go that would be cheap enough for you to swim all year round.

Any pool that would have a pool heater would be an okay place for you to go swim at. Maybe one of your best friends has a pool you can go swimming at. It does not matter where you go as long as you’re staying warm.

When you want to utilize your home pool more weeks every year, installing a pool heater is the answer. Keep the water circulating and clean with the help of pool pumps.

categories: pool heater,pool pumps,pool filters,pool heaters,pool maintenance,pool accessories,swimming pools,swimming,recreation,sport,houses

Different Kinds Of Pool Pumps And Their Gains

Saturday, January 8th, 2011

Setting out to buy pool pumps requires one to keen enough to ensure that the products one settles is of the latest kind and that it is beneficial when it comes to saving energy. The features thereof, such as the motor should be those that will give the best service and of the best quality.

They should also run on the best standards in the market because this is what determines the quality of circulation and that all the operation are done within the right standards. This is where one needs to put into consideration some of the features such as the items than enhance smooth water movement. This should also involve checking whether the regulation of energy is per the standards so that the circulation of water is done at its best. The filtration systems should also be checked to ensure that it is efficiently running.

It is also important to check the economic side of the equipment by ensuring that it is easy to maintain and that it provides quality services to the user. The best models that one should think of buying are those made from thermostatic material, since they are corrosion resistant and they are easy to mold so that they can fit inside the pool.

The categories that one can choose from include the in-ground and above the ground models. They offer virtually the same quality of services. But it is important to put into consideration some of the factors such as whether the preferred design will be able to allow for a proper installation.

They should also be powerful and quiet at the same time, so as to create a serene environment for the users. The maintenance cost should be at its lowest and should be one that is easy to operate without compromising on some of the most important features.

One of the most important considerations while picking the in ground model is the size. This because it largely depends on the size of the area it will be used in. It is advisable that one uses a horse power that is not extremely wide in terms of circumference. A tank that is beyond twenty four feet requires one to use equipment with a horse power of not more than one and a half feet.

The commonly used models are above the ground because of the many benefits that they come along with, in terms of cost and maintenance. They are convenient to use because they can be placed in any location and moving them around is also easy. This therefore, comes as the best choice for users who have the tendency of moving.

The reason as to why the above the ground pool pumps are the desired choice is that they keep the water moving. This ensures that stagnation does not happen. Having a stagnant pool is tremendously detrimental to its existence because it can be easily infected with all kinds of foreign material and insects. This is the reason as to why one should have good equipment that helps avoid this, while at the same time taking care of individual preferences.

When you have a recreational pool, utilizing top quality pool pumps keeps the water clean. Install your pool filters to maintain the appearance and health of your pool.

A Couple Basic Pool Heater Questions And Answers

Wednesday, December 22nd, 2010

Having a pool is a luxury many people enjoy, and taking advantage of that luxury means being able to use it more than one season a year. For some people, only three or four months are hot enough to heat the water, making off-season swimming uncomfortable. However, many people are starting to look at installing a pool heater and have questions.

Why bother heating a pool? After spending all that money to have it installed and the upkeep to it, your investment deserves to be enjoyed. By heating it during the off-season months, you and your family have the ability to stretch swimming season out a few months. Even if the air is a bit cool, the temperature of the water will be perfect for relaxing and exercising in.

What kind of heating options are there? In general, there are three types of heating options used today. You have the choice between solar, gas, and electric heaters. You will find that all have advantages and disadvantages and all come in a variety of prices. None can be categorized as the best overall because it really depends on the climate you live in and the size of yours.

Does it cost a lot to heat a pool? The cost will vary, depending on where you live and how much you heat it. You may pay anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand a year. Solar panels are the easiest and cheapest to use, but need the sun to be efficient. Electric is easy to use, but costs a lot and is less effective than gas. Although, gas is the most efficient and powerful, it can also be the most expensive to use.

How big of a heater should you use? In order to figure out the size you need, you take into account the surface area of the water and the difference between the water temperature and average air temperature. Those that live in cooler areas with high wind and low humidity will need larger ones than those who live in milder climates.

What can be done to save on heating costs? You can keep the cost down and the heat in by using a cover. Covers are found in the standard traditional type as well the solar blanket type. Installing a hedge or fence around it will keep the wind from cooling the temperature of the water too fast. Make sure you keep the thermostat set at a comfortable, but low temperature at all times also.

How to buy one? Before choosing one, you need to consider the reputation of the company you will buy from. Not all heaters are created equally, and some last longer than others do. Make sure you do your research and even investigate the dealer you will use to install your heater. Ask around to other pool owners who they use and who they would recommend before making your decision.

Many factors and a lot of thought go into deciding what type of pool heater to buy. How much it will cost you to use it will depend upon where you live, your swimming habits, and how much you really want to spend. You will find they all have advantages and disadvantages, but by doing your research, you will find the right type to fit your pool needs easily.

Do you have burning pool heater questions? Get the ultimate inside skinny now in our super guide to everything you need to know about pool pumps and heaters.

Guidelines On How To Buy A Pool Pump For Thorough Cleaning

Friday, December 10th, 2010

Most people say that the pool pumps are the heart of what makes the pool work. This is because it the reason why it functions as it does. If the area is left without the device, them it faces the risk of getting contaminated. The device also ensures that algae do not grow in the water The tool works together with a filter, in order to circulate the water in the area.

The function of the device is to draw water from the water and pass it through a filter. Some of the devices come with water heating capacity. The water is usually heated after it has been filtered. After the water has been cleansed then it goes back to the area through the return ports.

It is important to have apparatus which meets ones needs. Factors like horsepower, pressure and flow rate can be used to determine whether the equipment is suitable for use or not. The features of an ideal apparatus should match with the amount of work it is meant for.

When people are shopping for a device for their new pool, they concentrate on the efficiency of the apparatus. Such information is usually printed on the name plate found on the unit. The efficiency of the device is very important. If it is overlooked, a person might end up purchasing a device that will cost them, in terms of energy consumption. Apparatuses with high horsepower are not always suited for every need. The greatest concern should be finding an apparatus that is built for a pool of the given dimensions.

Flow rate describes the quantity of water that the apparatus pushes at a given time. It is usually measured as gallons per minute. It is not easy for someone to determine the flow rate of a certain device.

The size and purpose of the area dictates the flow rate needed. If the area in question is a commercial area, then the water has to be cleaned throughout the day. People with private apparatuses can clean the water once or twice every day.

The pressure of the device is also important. If the area in question is above the ground, then a small head device would suffice. This also applies to the in ground areas. The size of the in ground area matters. If it is small, then use a small head. Average sized in ground areas use the medium head models. Such models can function in areas that are a maximum of twenty thousand gallons. Areas that are bigger than twenty thousand gallons use the high head device. Combination areas and areas with built in spas need the ultra high head device.

It is normally hard to find pool pumps that have all the features that you desire. Most of the devices are similar, but someone can search the internet for the kind of device that meets their needs. There is a lot of advice on the internet on how to shop for the right device. Reading through other people’s testimonials is a very good place to start.

In order to maintain your home pool in best operating condition, pool pumps that are efficient and dependable are vital. You can save cleaning time with pool filters that are available on the Web.

A Look At Different Pool Filters

Friday, December 3rd, 2010

Sometimes, in order to determine the best choice in pool filters to suit your particular needs, it may require doing an in-depth search on the various functions and/or benefits that each one may provide. This is often due to the fact that each one may offer certain pros and cons over another, which can be very much dependent on each person’s situation or environment.

Even though people often find that looking for right filtration units can be somewhat difficult, this is often due to the fact that there are so many selections to choose from. However, it’s good to know that basically any type of filtration unit will work for your water – at least, to some degree. Again, much depends on the type of environment that your pool is in, since this might impact the overall success of the actual unit.

Proper filtration can be dependent on the actual size of the pool and the conditions that it may face such as the weather, landscaping and so forth. Typically, there are about three different types of filters, with each one potentially holding benefits in certain environments over other ones due to various reasons or impacting factors.

The three basic types of filtration units generally include the DE, sand and cartridge filters. While each type of unit can generally work in the same environment, for the most part, each one often has certain benefits over others in the long, generally being something that’s based on the environment itself and how much maintenance that you might be willing to put into the unit as well.

Sand-related units basically consist of a specially-designed grade of sand. Water is forced through this sand, which in turn allows for the clean water to be filtered through, while any debris and dirty water remains trapped on the actual surface of the sand itself.

A diatomaceous earth filter, or DE, is actually made up of tiny exoskeletons from diatoms. These are small enough to trap debris and dirt that is as small as five, tiny microns, which it does effectively enough while water passes through the exoskeletons themselves.

Cartridge filtration units are fairly basic, with water simply passing through a certain filter to get rid of debris. This works very much like similar filtration systems that many homeowners have on their sinks for purposes of drinking water. There are typically two types of cartridge units, with each varying in regards to price and their longevity, being based on the quality of their elements. For instance, many of the expensive cartridges have a tendency to last significantly longer than those that are slightly less expensive, even going for as long as five or more years.

Finding the right pool filters basically boils down to your overall preference and doing your research. However, in most cases, size does matter, making it important to know ahead of time as to the size of the area needing cleaning and comparing it to how much cleaning the unit will actually cover. Some also tend to vary on the maintenance that will be required or the extent of the maintenance itself that might be needed, depending on your circumstances and the size of things.

It’s as easy as one, two, three to find the right pool filters ! Get the ultimate inside scoop now in our comprehensive guide to the best pool heater and filter.

Buying Pool Pumps On The Internet Or In Stores

Saturday, November 27th, 2010

Pool pumps are the heart of the swimming pool. They keep the pool free of bugs, dirt, and algae if they are taken care of properly. Sometimes, a pump needs to be replaced. It is important for the pool owner to know where to get a replacement when it is needed. This short guide will give some great ideas on how to find pumps online or in stores.

First and foremost, the owner of the pool should try and repair the pump if it is broken. Sometimes it does not need to be replaced. Your first step is to take into a pool servicing shop to determine what is broken, and if it can be replaced. The staff there will be able to determine what broke, and if a replacement part can be ordered. This can be a real time saver.

However, that is not always the case. In the case of needing to replace the pump, you are already in the right place in theory. Talk to them about how much it will cost to completely replace the unit. Some pool owners work with only one particular that store. This is the store they purchased the pool from, normally. This store often offers a special discount on replacement pool parts. This is not always true though. In that case, it might be worth the money to shop around for a better deal.

Talk with the store owner that looked at the pump. They will be able to tell the names of stores that will carry the pool pump replacement. They do not mind sending customers to other stores, because their customers appreciate the information.

Exploring several stores before making a purchase. This is the best way to make sure that the best deal is found. The best time to find a new pump is going to be at the end of the pool season. Many stores will discount them. Sometimes stores will have pre-season sales too, to give owners a chance to stock up for the summer season. If the pool owner is lucky, their pump breaks down before or after the pool season. Sometimes, that is not the case, however.

Alternately, you can buy the pump online. Doing this takes a bit longer. It is always better try and buy the pump in person first. If that fails, this is the next most logical step. This takes very little time if the right steps are taken.

Use specific key words and phrases when searching online. This is the most efficient way to get the results you are looking for. Read the details of each website, and check on the policies they hold. Owners should keep in mind as they search that pumps are not interchangeable. Finding their pool’s specific pump type is imperative.

Searching for pool pumps can be an easy process. There is specific information that is needed. If the owner has it, they are on easy street for buying a new or replacement pump. Their pool will be up and running in no time with the right equipment.

For those individuals who have the luxury of having a good pool, you is going to need pool pumps. Pool filters is going to help keep your pool water fresh.

Hot Tub Temperatures And Your Health

Tuesday, July 13th, 2010

After a hard day of work, its always nice to soak in a hot tub to eliminate stress and relax your tired, aching body. But before you dip into the hot water, check it first. Make sure your hot tub is set at the right temperature. The wrong temperature can be hazardous.

This hot tub health warning comes from the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) which explains that high water temperatures can endanger your health. For this reason, it recommends 104 degrees Fahrenheit as the maximum temperature of a hot tub.

Experts agree that the use of higher temperature water can have healing effects on the body. Such hot water treatments and baths are used around the world. In Japan, temperatures in these baths can reach more than 115 degrees Fahrenheit. However, in most countries, including the U.S., these temperatures are regulated. This is because experts agree that high temperatures are linked to problems with health such as heat stroke.

Because of this warning, most hot tub manufacturers have installed controls on their products so that temperatures cannot go above and beyond the recommended level. The CPSC has indicated that if the water temperature goes too far beyond a persons regular body temperature, it can make them feel drowsy. This drowsiness can result in unconsciousness and then drowning.

The risk of drowning increases with the consumption of alcoholic beverages before soaking or while in a hot tub. So far this year, 10 deaths have been reported, three of which occurred with the use of alcohol in a hot tub with a temperature of 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

For those who are pregnant, extremely hot temperatures should also be avoided since they can cause damage to the fetus. Those with heart problems and hypertension are also at risk. Since heat raises the blood pressure, individuals can be at greater risk for heart attacks and strokes, often resulting in death. Because obesity is often linked with high blood pressure, overweight individuals should also avoid excessive hot tub temperatures.

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Pool Cleaning 101: Filters

Monday, July 12th, 2010

Essentially, there are two important things that a pool owner has to consider when he or she wants to keep her pool at a healthy condition. 1. Constant running water; the kind of water that go on good circulation and will unlikely have the chances of getting stagnated. 2. Proper filtration; where it keeps the dirt off the precious pool.

Proper filtration in your pool will not only ascertain that the water will not get filthy; it also gives you assurance that bacteria is prevented from every infesting your pool. Something of ulterior importance to any pool owner. Come to think of it, who would want to swim over a pool full of sickness causing bacteria?

There are 3 types of pool filters that are widely used my most pool owners today. Let’s take a look at them and how they function.

1. Sand Filters

All sand filters have basically three things in common. 1. They all make use of sand (while others utilize sand & gravel combinations). 2. They flow through the top, then right down to the sand filters which will practically strain all dirt and debris off the water. 3. Clean water is then permitted back into the pool once it’s already cleaned.

Sand filters are perhaps one of the oldest known methods of water filtration known to man. Way even before during the time of ancient civilizations, they already make use of sand to filter out dirt from their water linkages in order to make the water potable.

They are very effective cleaning mechanisms when you are not making use of any chlorine oriented cleaning agents such as biguanides.

2. Cartridge Filters

All cartridge filters also make use 3 common denominators that make it work well: 1. Generally, all cartridge filters make use of specially pleated fiber cartridges to catch dirt and debris out of the pool. 2. Water goes through inside of the tank which will then proceed to the cartridges to be filtered. 3. Clean water is then flowed back to the pool.

Cartridge filters are generally large in size. The pleated fiber material can reach as large as several hundred square feet, very much larger than that of residential sand filters which sizes range only below 4 square feet. Due to its considerable size the chances of it getting dirty in between cleanings would take a while.

3. DE Filters

DE filters are perhaps the finest filtration mechanism there is available in the market. DE Filters make use of septum, finger-like grids that sift out dirt and even microorganisms as small as 2-5 microns in size, the size of some microscopic algae and large bacteria.

DE filters will filter out the dirt with their septum, and thoroughly clean the waters until even the smallest organisms are sifted. Then the cleaner water is flowed back into the pool.

Read more pool cleaning tips and visit this article about pool cleaning filters to gain more infos.

Chemical Treatments For Pool Cleaning

Monday, July 12th, 2010

You practically have 2 main reasons why pool owners should always make it an appointment to keep their swimming pools maintained periodically: 1. When dirt accumulates it will lead to destroying your pool. Filth will pile up in every part of the place until such time they stick there for good. Thus you would have to go through the hassle of having your pool professionally overhauled; this practically entails additional expenses. 2. Dirt causes bacteria build-up in your pool. Bacteria will not only destroy the well-being of your pool but to you and your family as well, as it will cause sickness to everyone who would come in contact with them.

There are a lot of pool cleaning options available in the market. One of the most popular ones is the use of chemical based agents in cleaning in the pool. Chlorine based cleaning agents are amongst the ones mostly used by pool owners. They are proven effective to wear off germs from your pool waters. Below are two pool cleaning mechanisms that make use of chlorine:

1. Swimming Pool Shock

Pool Shocks are advisably to be used at least once a week. Especially when the pool is used quite too often within the time being, or after a heavy rain, and or during extended hot seasons like summer. Pool Shocking is simply “extremely chlorinating” your pool. Thias means that the chlorine content level of your pool is increased drastically to saturate the water with the chemical to ensure that all bacteria in it is eradicated. Every pool owner should have a basic knowledge about this method being one of the most commonly used treatment option.

2. Algaecides

The usual cause why your swimming pool becomes mossy and slimy is the presence of algae in it. In order to abate this condition, the use of algaecides is practical. There are 3 different most common types of algae that infest pools. The black, green and mustard. The green algae are obviously the green slimy stuff that floats around your pool. Also they stick on the in betweens of the pool wall tiles and floor giving it the slippery slimy feel. Black are ironically not black. They are more of greenish blue pigments that float around the pool as well. Mustard algae looks like dirt and often mistaken as dirt.

All of the mentioned treatments above are chemically based. Albeit them being effective in cleaning you pool, there comes natural hazards along with their usage. It is important to note precautionary measure each and every time you make use of these treatments.

read more on pool cleaning tips by going through this article about pool cleaning chemicals to gain additional inputs.

Do It Yourself Pool Cleaning Tips

Friday, July 9th, 2010

Swimming pools are not always fun to have around. Because there will come a time when your pool will turn green and dotted with some ugly blue stuff making it look unhealthy to swim on. Your once crystal clear blue waters will suddenly turn into a hideous place in your house. And you really don’t want this to happen to your precious recreational area. That is why it is important to make it a point to always clean your pool from time to time.

However, granted that a pool might be pretty big of a space to clean, the task at hand maybe quite considerable. Thus, you might find it convenient to make use of cleaning systems or machineries to do the job. But, it does not necessarily follow also that you cannot do it yourself.

There are a lot of pool cleaning tools you can make use that are cheap and are readily available. You can have these ones instead of going for those really huge ones. Although bigger ones are relatively more efficient because they would probably entail more comprehensive automated mechanisms. But sometimes the best way to go is to use the practical ones. These practical tools would include your skimming net, pool brush and vacuum.

After you have them, you can now personally begin your pool cleaning task.

Sometimes trees and plants the overlook your pool will wither its leaves on it. Over time they accumulate and eventually cover your pool. Withered leaves on the pool will not only make your pool look dirty, it would also make it susceptible for bacteria attacks. To clean the leaves that fell into your pool, use your skimming net to pick them up. Keep on skimming the pool with the skimming net until such time that you can clearly see that your pool is leaves-free. Place a container or a garbage can near you to easily dispose the picked-up leaves.

When a container or space has water in it, the presence of algae would be natural if the water is left unchecked and unchanged for too long. Same goes as well with swimming pools with unclogged water; the surfaces get mossy and slippery due to algae build-up. It is important to free your pool from this gross. First unclogged and drain the water that has probably been there for ever. When the pool basin is empty, begin using your brush to scrape all the algae pasted in the wall surfaces. After the walls you can proceed immediately with the floor. Tiled pools require a more specific kind of brush to clean the in between of the tiles.

Vacuums are essential in cleansing the water that is circulated in the pool. Vacuum siphons the water and removes certain dirt and debris off it. You can do this ever week.

Filters are important pool items to have. They keep your pool clean in between general cleanings. Filters sift water from dirt thus making the water cleaner. But eventually, all the dirt filtered by the filters will accumulate until it can’t manage to filter any more dirt. It is important to periodically clean the filters to ensure that they are working properly and at the same time, keeping your pool clean.

If you want to make your pool cleaning task easier, read this article about cheap pool cleaning tips to gain additional tips.