Posts Tagged ‘Swimming pools’

Reasons You Should Go For Variable Speed Pool Pumps

Thursday, February 10th, 2011

Owning a swimming pool is not an end on its own. One must carry out meticulous efforts to keep it in perfect conditions. Among all the important items is the pool pump which is used to keep the water in motion hence preventing problems associated with stagnation such as development of algae. This is especially the case in warm areas. Finding a pump is not a problem with the high number of such units in the market. However, there are certain issues that will require you to think twice before choosing. For instance older model pool pumps are known for inefficiency in power consumption.

According to where you live, you might need to operate your unit for up to eight or even ten hours a day. This normally happens to those in sunny areas. However, this is not sustainable with the older models. To save on electricity, you will need to use a variable speed pump.

When you get down to finding the right pump for your pool, you will notice that there are several alternatives on offer. Therefore, you should not have a hard time finding a suitable pump to satisfy your needs. Do not forget that you want to get a new model in order to save money in your power bill.

One issue that troubles many people is how much they are going to save on their energy bills once they change to one of these units. Comparing them to the older models, one can save around thirty to eighty percent from their normal bill. However, this is pegged on the controller one uses.

You might not be aware of this but in most cases, a single speed pump contributes to forty percent of the energy bill during summer. This is because you have no way of controlling the speed at which it operates except by turning it off. However, with a variable speed unit, you have the choice to run it at full, slow or steady speed. Reducing the speed also lowers the energy consumed.

Another reason why you should consider changing is if you have additional features in your pool such as fountains, slides or water falls. With the normal models, you will require it to work harder to achieve the filtration required and to keep the additional features working. However, it will consume the same energy even when they are not operational. With the variable speed option you can lower the speed when they are not in use hence conserving energy.

Apart from energy conservation, one can enjoy quiet operation with the variable speed pumps. Unlike the older ones which had to be located far away, you can get a model operating in the 10 to 15 decibel range. This almost the level of a human whisper.

One more positive aspect of pool pumps with changing speed is that they come with clogging detector. This is perfect to spot clogging problems in the pipes and to turn the pump off. Moreover, they include several detectors that will work when there is an increase in temperature and sudden variations on voltage and they all come equipped with a remote control for easy use. If you consider how much of a difference a pump with changing speed can make to your life, you should get one as soon as possible.

Get inside info on reasons why you should opt for variable speed pool pumps now in our complete review of everything you need to know about how and where to get the best pool filters in UK.

Salt Water Pools VS. Traditional Pools

Saturday, February 5th, 2011

When one is considering a new pool, one will need to decide what type of additive they will use to keep the pool safe and clean for swimming. This makes a difference in the type of equipment one will buy for the pool. Keeping up on the proper maintenance of the pool will help prevent wasted money and time trying to fix problems that can occur if the water is not balanced chemically.

A chlorine pool is the traditional sort of pool. The pool water chemistry is maintained by adding chlorine to the pool. Chlorine is used to sanitize the pool water, killing bacteria and other contaminants which can become harmful. Many choices of chlorine types are on the market. Chlorine pools are known for having some disadvantages, however. Some of these include: drying out the skin of swimmers, irritating eyes and adding a green tint to the hair of some avid swimmers.

Pools with salt water are kept clean by use of a system which changes salt into chlorine. Pools such as this are not chlorine free, due to salt generating the chlorine. People tend to like this option since they will not need to handle toxic chemicals nor add them regularly to the pool. The salt water system controls the sum of generated chlorine incorporated into the pool water. While salt is gentler to the eyes and skin than chlorine and does not leave traces of chemical smell on swimmers, salt water pools also have their disadvantages. Residue from the salt can be seen about the surrounding pool decking once it splashes out and dries.

Chlorine pools are less expensive to set up, but a pool owner must continue to purchase and add chemicals regularly. Salt water pool systems are more expensive to install, but require less money monthly to maintain. Not having to purchase chemicals can lead to saving a pool owner about sixty dollars per month. Pool maintenance services can be found to maintain either type of pool.

Despite the sort of pool you choose, pH balance is an important element in both pool types. Keeping close to the pH level of human tears, which are a 7.2, pH balance levels in pools should be kept between 7.2-7.6. A pool owner is able to measure the pH level in their pool using a drop test kit bought from a store selling pool supplies. Proper pH balance lets chlorine more effectively sanitize the pool’s water. Also available to test pH balance are test strips, but they are misread easily. Burning eyes usually associated with chlorine pools are often simply the outcome of mismanaged pH balance.

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Which Is The Best Pool Heater

Wednesday, February 2nd, 2011

The most common method to heat a pool is using gas. Gas heaters work using either propane or natural gas. This gas is burned in a combustor and circulating water is then heated. The benefit of using gas to heat a pool is that is works well and quickly. It also works year round, in all temperatures. Unfortunately, these heaters work best if only used for a short time and not very often. If a pool needs to be heated for long and frequent use, a different heater is necessary.

Another type is the heat pump. Heat pumps do not burn fuel to create heat, but instead transfer heat from one area to another. Using specialized equipment, heat is transferred from the outside air. Liquid refrigerant is turned into a hot gas. This heat is taken from the refrigerant and given to circulating water.

Because heat pump heaters gather heat from the outside, they are only efficient in limited climates. When it is colder than forty five degrees Fahrenheit or warmer than fifty degrees Fahrenheit, they are compromised. The colder the outside air, the harder they must work to get heat. They are more longer-lasting than gas heaters but are more expensive to purchase. Though in the long run they are more cost effective and produce cheaper electricity bills.

Solar heaters are another option available. They contain a solar collector, filter, pump, and flow control valve. Energy is captured by the sun and the solar collector helps in circulating water so it is properly heated. The cost and efficiency of solar heaters depends on many factors, including fuel prices and climate. Generally, they are longer lasting than gas or heat pump heaters.

Properly sizing a heater is an important step. Gas and heat pump heaters must meet requirements determined by overall pool size and variations in outside temperatures. If a heater is too small it will not work properly. It should also not be too large.

Humidity, outdoor temperatures, and wind speeds are also important factors. All of these affect potential heater size. Pool surface area and differences in temperatures should directly influence what size heater is purchased.

In addition to these things, other variables affect solar heating as well. Available sun energy, the correct angle of solar panels and the amount of panels needed must be calculated. More paneling will be required if a region is particularly cold or cloudy. The more paneling that is placed also extends the span of time the system will be effective.

There are three main types of heaters available: gas, heat pump and solar. Among these, the gas heater is the fastest and most efficient over the shortest amount of time. It is also the best option for all-round pool use, as it operates optimally in all conditions. However, heat pump heaters last longer and in the end, save the consumer money on electricity bills.

Solar heaters have the most unknowns in costs, but are the longest lasting of the different heating types. However, no matter what type of heater is used, size matters. If a heater is incorrectly sized it will not work properly.

Outfitting your indoor or outdoor pool for efficient use can be easier than you might think. Check out the inventory of pool heater options and pool pumps by looking online.

Solar Pool covers for efficiency

Saturday, January 29th, 2011

Efficiency the the big thing you get from using pool solar covers, use up to 40% fewer chemicals in the pool. You will stop the heat and energy that has gone into the pool water from escaping into the atmosphere. Reduced evaporation will mean less topping up and that will save money too, due to metered water.

Automatic Solar pool covers on rails

Seeing as the solar pool cover is running on rails set into the sides of the pool and it is made of strong materials. It can be tough enough to stand on when in place. This solution will cost more for installation on the pool, but is good for someone that might struggle with dragging the cover manually.

Treat your swimming pool – Hunt for discount solar pool covers

It is not difficult to do a search online for pool equipment suppliers of cheap swimming pool covers solar. You can also ask your local suppliers for their prices to be able to get the best deals. Pool covers though not high tech, can have a significant effect on the running of your pool.

Construction materials of solar pool covers

Polyethylene, polypropylene or vinyl are used to make the solar pool covers and the heavy grade plastics will be durable enough to last several years. You need to have some ultra violet light protection in your cover so that it is not degraded in the harsh sunny conditions.

Solar pool covers – blankets to keep the pool cosy.

Your pool will be warmer and consequently more enjoyable to use for a longer season by insulating the water. It will be locking in the solar gains from the suns rays, giving you the best efficiency. Your kids will be able to have fun in the pool for longer during the year.

Advantages and benefits

Keep some of the dirt out of the pool by using a cover. Swim further or splash for longer. Be happy saving money on the running of the swimming pool in your garden.

Finding the cheap swimming pool covers for your swimming pool? Getting the best out of an automatic solar pool cover on your pool in the back garden

Do you buy an in ground pool or go for the on the surface pool

Friday, January 28th, 2011

In-ground pool prices will be a factor when you are in the market for a swimming pool.. The in ground pools will cost more as they are often more substantial and take more effort to build and construct. Digging holes to put them in cost money for example.

Are there things you should know about in ground swimming pools

You will be laying out a fair bit of cash to purchase a pool and have the added value on your house. So you have to take care that the pool will be a well made reliable addition to the property. What are the merits of the ready built fibreglass pools compared to the pools that are either built from polymer panels or steel walls. Do you want to avoid the rusting issues if you can.

InGround swimming pools – The different types you can get.

Consider where the pool is going to be situated and what you will use it for most. Then you can go for the lap pool if you are a fitness freak getting healthy or an infinity pool if chilling and relaxing in the sun is more you. Don’t forget the grecian Roman and Oasis styles which will undoubtedly enhance most properties considerably.

Location of the pool and how much space you have to build the pool will influence your buying as will what you want to use the pool for. Fitness swimming or is it for messing about with the children, or the invaluable cooling down on the really hot days of summer. When you know what you want you will be able to research the best prices for in ground swimming pools.

How good is the pool in terms of quality of fit, finish, and fittings.

In ground swimming pools prices will be affected by the build quality of the fixtures and the overall standard of the pool. Do you have a guarantee from the manufacturer and the installer of the pool that will give you peace as you sleep at night. Critical considerations when you are making your decisions.

How to get the in ground swimming pools prices Sit on the poolside by the pool with your swimming pool dive toys

Pool Pumps Coupled With Filters Get Rid Of Toxins From The Pool Water

Wednesday, January 26th, 2011

Pool pumps are primarily used in conjunction with pool filters to circulate the water and keep it clean. The pool pumps and motors come in a wide range of styles and functions to be used in the different types of pools that are available. All swimming pool pumps need to have a hair and lint strainer that is able to catch the debris to stop the pump impellor from becoming blocked.

Pool pumps are designed for pool filtration applications in domestic swimming pools. The main use of the pool pump is to clean the pool water. The environment as well as swimmers introduce contaminants into the pool water. It is therefore essential to have a pool pump and filtration system to secure the health of your swimming pool.

Healthy clean water makes swimming in the pool safe and enjoyable without any complaints of sore eyes, skin irritations or nose and throat irritations. Pool water that has been cleaned properly will also not cause any premature deterioration of the internal finishes in the pool or the equipment.

The only downfall of swimming pool pumps is that they use large amounts of electricity. The top electricity users in an average household are geysers, space heaters, cooking appliances and pool pumps. In the average home, geysers and pool pumps emit the largest amount of greenhouse gases.

Pool pumps are lightweight but extremely durable and strong. Good quality in-ground pool pumps are designed to be capable of lifting the water and priming themselves. The in-ground pool pumps differ from the above ground pool pumps.

Most homes have an outdoor structure designed to house the pool filtration equipment to protect it from the weather conditions as well as to keep the noise of pool pump at a minimum. A pool filtration system is essential for clean pool water.

The different makes of pool pumps all perform differently which means you should not determine which pool pump to use in your pool by looking at the stated horsepower alone. The cartridge filter systems are by far the easiest way for you to manage your pool. Another way of filtering out pool contaminants is by using Diatomaceous earth in the pool filter.

Solar Pool Heaters allow you to take advantage of the sun’s free energy. Solar PV systems represent significant up front financial investments made by the property owner. In order to encourage property owners to make significant investments in solar energy there is need for certainty regarding solar access.

Only the most energy-conservative owners of swimming pools truly realize the high energy usage of their own pool equipment. Energy efficiency is increasingly a concern with pool-pumping systems. It is therefore a good idea to consider fitting an energy efficient electric pool motor.

Pool pumps often run much longer than necessary. The overall message regarding the efficient use of pool pumps echoes that of energy savings in general: be conscious of energy use – don?t switch it on and forget about it. A number of pool pumps are available in the market for purchase.

The most effective pool pumps can be located over at pool pumps. Make sure you check out pool filters to purchase all the products you need for ones swimming pool.

The Significance Of Having Pool Filters And Their Uses

Sunday, January 23rd, 2011

Having pool filters cleaned on a regularly basis is one way of ensuring that the water maintains high standards of cleanliness. The equipment are quite essential in making sure that there is no accumulation of foreign materials that could lead to clogging. Therefore, this fact could easily ruin the facility. The area might end up attaining its worst status within a short time. The reason for this is because it becomes hard to clean this way, the facility becomes of non-effect.

The equipment only require cleaning within a short time therefore, maintaining them on a regular basis is quite important. This cleaning is done using the back washing process since it really gives good results. One of the best ways of benefiting from its effectiveness is ensuring that cleaning is done on a weekly basis so that all the dirt is removed.

The ere various types of equipment and they all require different steps of cleaning. Therefore, this is one aspect that one need to be aware of from the onset. This is because they all use different cleaning processes. There is a need for deep cleaning from time to time in order to remove any debris that has collected in the removable systems.

One of the categories is the sand cleaner which requires the cleaning to be done by the use of rough sand. This is one equipment that requires to be replaced once it has stayed for a period of approximately seven years. Chlorine is used in most cases for cleaning and as such the replacement should ideally be done once ten years have elapsed.

There are also cartridge equipment. These ones require washing by the use of complex matrix so that a good degree of cleanliness can be attained. Clogging is mostly caused by elements such as perspiration, body oils and chemicals. The major determinant when it comes to the replacement of cartridges is the canister pressure since there is no stipulated period in which this should be done.

Majority of experts are of the opinion that the cartridge should be cleaned when the pressure hits beyond the pressure of the new cartridge. One should however, consider a replacement if the matrix of the cartridge happens to tear so as to avoid the likelihood of further damage.

Diatomaceous equipment are mostly the best choice when it comes to cleaning the water. This is a system whose cleaning is through the use of earth material that is primarily treated in such a way that it allows for the cleaning of tiny particles. The cleaning process however, requires one to have a great deal of patience and effort as compared to other systems. The diatomaceous earth may be changed on a daily basis if the water happens to be dirty. The earth material should be changed after thirty days once the water has attained a considerable degree of cleanliness.

Cleaning pool filters regularly is one of the critical parts of maintaining the facility and ensuring that it is in an immaculate condition. The job requires to be approached carefully although, it does not require much effort and time.

Get exclusive inside information on the many benefits of cleaning pool filters now in our comprehensive review of everything you need to know about the best pool heater options UK.

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

Swimming Pool Safety Advice for Children

Thursday, January 20th, 2011

We see many people enjoying and hanging out at the pools and beaches. In sunny days too we see family members and friends having a gala time. Children experience so much pleasure and joy that we see their broad smiles on their faces. Small kids like to be in water as they find pleasure in the blissful place where they can amuse themselves.

Parents should certainly think about water safety while children in pools. If possible, they should handover to somebody to strictly look at the kids. Specially planned pools for children are very much secured as they are not as deep as those considered for adults. If your area has a children’s pool, then let them have fun with water.

Before planning a trip it is recommended that you enquire for children pool and be knowledgeable about their concern for kids swimming in advance. You should be aware of the admission policy of the pool that cover ‘adults to children ratio’ which are protection policies as they increase the purpose of safety.

Although children swimming in pools and drowning are rare cases, one should never be complacent. If you are watching more than one, never leave the other while possibly accompanying the other to the showers. It is better that you have sight of both or all the children on your watch. Never risk and be satisfied in the thought that bad things may not happen.

For safer children swimming sessions, you may buy swimming aids for them. There are swim jackets, buoyancy jackets and armbands types – these will at least help in assuring the safety of the children.

If your children are yet not that confident with swimming pools, you may want to choose a time and date that may provide for a quieter environment. In this way, you can have the pool for yourselves and let your children swimming gain more confidence inside the water.

With many children creating a lot of noise, splashes and playing about, building confidence of your child may not be easy. In due course, time shall come, when your children shall swim in these pools without hesitation.

It’s indeed a pleasurable sight for parents to see their children enjoying swimming in the pool and having fun. These joyful moments and sight of children laughing out innocently make a lasting impression. Such quality time spent together with children become cherished memories which can be shared happily later.

The author is a multifaceted writer. She writes articles for a number of subjects like marriage and relationship advices, great deals on bathing suits and swimsuits with skirt bottom, family and parenting concerns, fashion and beauty tips and a lot more.

An Alternative: Above Ground Swimming Pools

Wednesday, January 19th, 2011

Above ground swimming pools may just fit your backyard to give you something to enjoy when you get home, or on weekends together with some close friends. If you have been wanting to have a pool of your own, that can be assembled faster and serves the same function – these above ground swimming pools might just be a good choice for you.

These pools are quickly making way for newer above ground pools granting your area in backyard is levelled. Installation is done in a day or two with three people working on it by the companies who make above ground swimming pools. These pools are constructed with full commitment by the company so, it’s better to ask them as customer satisfaction.

Above ground swimming pools are available in several shapes and proportions. With their range of product lines pools can be customized to match your home and backyard area with your desired needs. Consider a realistic and sensible pool for your home. This will give you more alternatives for your ideal pool with your preferences.

Unlike in ground swimming pools these pools can be more practical and improved with artistic features as it is raised so high above the ground. Your pool will now look more desirable and most suited as per your preferences at home.

Full knowledge and expert skills are required when choosing a company for your preferred pool so that quality above ground swimming pools is well installed and also effective at your backyard. For installation and maintenance their expert skills are necessary to avoid problems in future.

Warranties differ on each company – as well as the costs they charge. But if they are established in the industry, and known for their quality work, this may just be the best way to go if you really want lesser problems in the future. With such companies, you are assured of above ground swimming pools that will last long.

With above ground swimming pools, it will now be possible for you and your family members to spend time on your backyards – taking a dip and have fun as long as you would want. You now have more reasons to stay home, and still have a grand time.

The author is a multifaceted writer. She creates articles for a variety of topics such as marriage and relationship advices, great deals on bikini and halter top swimsuits, family and parenting concerns, fashion and beauty tips and a lot more.

categories: above ground swimming pools,swimming pools,home,pools,outdoor,family,leisure

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