Swimming Pools

Fun In The Pool With Slides

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:16:54 +0000

Having a swimming pool in your backyard is great fun but did you know that you can have more fun with a swimming pool slide? Slides for in-ground and above ground swimming pools come in all shapes and sizes. You will be able to find one that suits your family, your budget and your pool.

Swimming pool slides these days are designed and built to be safe and durable. You can enjoy hours of pure entertainment knowing that these slides can be safely used. Unlike diving boards which need a deep end, slides can be installed in shallower areas of the pool. They are safe even for younger children.

All Shapes and Sizes
There is a wide variety of styles and designs for swimming pool slides. One variable in slide models is the slide height, which can vary between 3 feet and 8 feet. When choosing a height, you must consider the age of your swimmers. You will also have to think of the speed of sliding that your swimmers will enjoy.

Various models of swimming pool slides differ in the shape and design of the slide. Standard swimming pool slides feature a gentle curve or a slight twist at the top or bottom. However, you will also find slides with more twists and turns. Some even have 360 degree corkscrew designs. This type of slides often comes with a water delivery system to make your ride faster and more thrilling.
Older children and adults can enjoy a faster ride with water slides. Slower speeds are better for young children. Swimming pool slides have weight requirements to ensure the safety of everyone. In general, however, teenagers and younger children will be able to experience the same level of fun on one slide.
Inflatable Pool Slides
When you have young swimmers, an inflatable swimming pool slide may be a good option. These pool slides are typically only two or three feet high. Inflatable pool slides are constructed of durable vinyl and can withstand season after season of energetic play. They use a standard garden hose to supply the water flow for sliding.
Inflatable pool slides are inexpensive and easy to install.
Wide Range of Prices
There are many different types and designs of swimming pool slides and you can have a wide selection of quality choices. You can choose a standard pool slide for a young child or a more thrilling design for your youngster. Different models of pool slides are available in a wide range of prices. Swimming pool owners with different budgets can find a pool slide that will provide the entertainment and adventure they are looking for.
This summer, bring the water park into your backyard with the perfect swimming pool slide for your pool.

Swimming Pool Pumps

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:15:49 +0000

People often overlook the importance of a swimming pool pump when installing a filtration system for their swimming pool. This is unfortunate because the pump is the heart of the filtration system and plays a crucial role in keeping the pool water clean and clear. Thus, it is important to purchase the proper pump for your pool.
There are several factors to consider when buying a swimming pool pump. Choosing the wrong pump can lead to a dirty pool, high energy cost, or damage to your pool filtration system.
Choose The Right Size

There are many sizes of swimming pool pumps and choosing one will depend on the size of your pool. A pump that is too small will not be able to clean your pool. On the other, a pool that is too big can create too much suction and swimming will feel uncomfortable. It will also lead to higher electricity bills.

Your swimming pool dealer should be able to advise you on the right pool pump size. In general, the pump motor size will depend on the model or size of your swimming pool.

The pool pump works in conjunction with the swimming pool filter, and it must be the right size to keep the pool clean. However, while it is important to get a pool pump that is big enough, you have to make sure that the pump does not exceed the allowable filter flow. A pump that generates too much pressure can damage the filter housing and internal components.

Energy Efficient Models
Your swimming pool pump will be running at least 6 hours a day, or up to 24 hours a day depending on pool usage. You should consider getting an energy efficient swimming pool pump so you can save money on electricity. You may also want to purchase a pump with an automatic timing system. This will enable you to turn on and shut off the pump at certain times of the day.

Noise Level
A swimming pool pump always makes a noise while it is running. Depending on the pump, the noise can be a low humming sound or a loud roar. You will want a pump that is as quiet as possible. Besides, you can’t have a fun pool party if the pump is making such a loud noise.

There have been many technology advancements in swimming pool pumps in recent years. In addition to quiet features, you will find pumps with corrosion protection, heating abilities, extra power, and much more. Swimming pool pumps do not come cheap so you should choose a model that is durable and guaranteed to last a long time.

Tips For Maintaining Your Swimming Pool

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:14:47 +0000

A crystal clear swimming pool increases your enjoyment of having a pool, but it can only happen with regular swimming pool maintenance. To keep your pool clean and clear there are tasks that you have to do everyday, as well as seasonal maintenance checks. You can find all the tools and equipment you need to maintain your pool in many online stores.

Equipment for maintaining swimming pools help keep the pool clean and clear. Pool manufacturers recommend the regular use of specific tools to keep the water safe for swimming. Without proper maintenance, swimming pools can become dirty or contaminated.

Some of the things you’ll need to keep the pool clean include a pool filter, vacuum, and skimmer. Chlorine tablets prevent the growth of algae that can turn the water cloudy or greenish. To maintain an in-ground swimming pool, you will also need some pumice stones and brushes to clean the tiles.
Daily Tasks
Run the pool filter at least 8 hours a day, or as recommended by the manufacturer. It is best, however, to keep the filter running 24 hours a day.
Use a pool skimmer to remove floating leaves and debris. Empty your skimmer baskets and clear them of leaves and debris.
Add chlorine to the pool daily. You can use a chlorine floater with chlorine tablets inside. You can also place slow-dissolving chlorine tablets in the skimmers or filter once a week.
Weekly Swimming Pool Maintenance
Vacuum the pool to remove dirt from the bottom. Pool vacuums come in automatic or manual models.
Use a brush or pumice stone to scrub the tiles along the waterline. This is where deposits tend to form.
Swimming pool maintenance experts recommend adding a dose of Algae Preventative to discourage the growth of algae.
Use a pool cover if the pool will not be used for an extended period of time.
Regular Equipment Check
Check your pool maintenance equipment regularly to make sure they are in good working condition and to correct small problems before they get worse. Clean out the swimming pool’s skimmer basket and empty the contents into a trash bag.
Open and clean out the pump strainer basket. After cleaning the skimmer and strainer basket, check the filter and see if it also needs cleaning. You may also have to replace the filter. It’s important to check the condition of the machinery and pool equipment on a monthly basis.
Water Test
Every two to three weeks, test the swimming pool water. The water’s pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.9 to keep it clean and clear. Water test strips will show the levels of chlorine and pH level in the pool. Free available chlorine level should be at 1.0-3.0 ppm. If the chemical levels are not maintained, algae can grow. This can lead to water that appears cloudy, green, black or brown. Proper and regular maintenance is the only way to keep your swimming pool crystal clear.

Swimming Pool Liners

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:13:53 +0000

Swimming pool liners now come in a wide selection of patterns and colors. You may think that pool liners are purely for cosmetic purposes, but they actually have other important uses. In addition to improving the looks of a pool, swimming pool liners also help keep the water in.
Pool liners are made from vinyl. This synthetic material is elastic and prevents liquid from seeping in or out of the pool. They hold the water within the pool and also contribute to the appearance of the pool. In general, pool liners last for about 10 years.
With the use of swimming pool liners, your pool will look great. There are many designs and patterns to choose from, including geometrical designs, abstract designs, etc. You can pick any color that suits your taste, such as blue, green, yellow, brown or any color combination of your choice. Remember that the pattern is visible through the water, and it will make a huge difference in the look of your pool.

While the color and pattern is important, it is more important to select a liner that is durable. Thicker liners are more resistant to tears and punctures. Always inspect the swimming pool liner before installing it to make sure there are no rips or tears in the material.
Types of Swimming Pool Liner Installation
Before you start with the swimming pool design and construction, you must decide what type of liner you want.
Overlap liner – Overlap liners go up and over the top edges of the walls of the swimming pool. They are then folded over the edges and secured with plastic clips called coping. Once installed, a small border of the liner can be seen outside the pool. Overlap liners are easy to install and they are the most popular choice.
Beaded liner – This type of liner uses a bead receiver track for installation. The track has a row of clips running around the entire length of the pool. The swimming pool liner is hooked into the clips of the receiver track and secured along the borders. Beaded liners are usually more expensive than other types.
Uni-Bead liners- This type of liner is popularly known as a J-hook liner because of the perforated edges that look like the letter “J”. It can be installed like a beaded liner or an overlap liner.
Expandable liner – This is made from high quality expandable vinyl material. It can be made to stretch and fit into deep and large pools.
You can have a great looking pool with the right swimming pool liner. In addition, liners can help reduce or prevent swimming pool liners. There are many online shopping websites where you can buy an affordable liner that is just right for your swimming pool.

Why Swimming Pool Covers Are Important

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:13:00 +0000

Swimming pool owners know that they have to clean and maintain their pool regularly. To this end, they willingly invest in pool filters and other pool accessories. Only a few, however, think of getting swimming pool covers. Swimming pool safety covers are important because they help prevent accidents. Pool covers also help conserve water and keep the pool clean.
Importance of Swimming Pool Covers
A cover for your swimming pool can prevent a serious accident such as accidental drowning of children. Pool covers can also help reduce the cost of pool maintenance, including heating and chemical use. Not all covers are designed to do both, and you may find it necessary to get two different kinds of pool covers.

Safety Pool Covers
A safety cover for the pool must be able to support the weight of a small child, should the child walk on the cover. Safety covers are usually made of tough mesh material that can be anchored to the pool deck with stainless-steel hardware. A safety cover should be used to cover the pool during the off season. You can have peace of mind knowing that the pool is safe and secure when it is unattended for a long period of time.
Winter Covers
A winter cover can protect your swimming pool from dirt and debris during the winter. Tie-downs or water bags are used to secure the cover on in-ground pools. For above-ground pools, a winch/rope combination is used to cinch the cover tightly around the swimming pool.
Solar Covers
Solar swimming pool covers help retain the heat in your pool, saving hundreds of dollars a year in heating costs. Solar covers also reduce water evaporation and chemical evaporation. The material used is highly resistant to UV rays. It is also resistant to puncture. Solar covers for the swimming pool are designed to be easy to remove and store.
Pool Cover Benefits
Safety – The children’s safety is always the parent’s first priority. Swimming pool safety covers can prevent the danger of children accidentally falling into the pool. It is a cheaper alternative to building a fence around the pool. When it comes to safety, a swimming pool cover is a necessity.
Energy savings – A pool cover can help conserve the heat in the pool water.
Conserve water and chemicals – Swimming pool covers reduce evaporation of water and chemicals. You will need less water to make up for what is lost through evaporation. Chemical consumption can also be reduced by up to 60%.
Reduce cleaning time – Swimming pool covers keep dirt and debris out of the pool. Spend more time enjoying your pool instead of cleaning it.

Keeping Your Pool Clean With Chemicals

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:12:01 +0000

It’s obvious to anyone that you have to remove dirt, leaves, hair and other debris from your swimming pool water, but did you know that it’s just as important to maintain the proper water chemistry of your swimming pool? That’s why there is a wide array of swimming pool chemicals that you need to know about to keep your pool water safe and clean for swimmers. You won’t have to hire a swimming pool professional to maintain your pool as long as you have a basic understanding of swimming pool chemistry.
There are many swimming pool chemicals used to treat pool water, including sanitizers, algaecides, shocks, balancers and stabilizers. They have to be used in the proper way. An imbalance in the chemicals can harm swimmers as well your filtering, pumping and heating system. It’s not enough for your pool to look crystal clear. The pH level must also be maintained between 7.4 and 7.6. Lower or higher pH levels can lead to eye and skin irritation as well as corrosion to the filter system.

Sanitizers
Chlorine is the most popular swimming pool chemical used to kill pathogens in the water. It can be purchased in the form of tablets, liquid or powder. Chlorine is added to the water as calcium hypochlorite (a solid) or sodium hypochlorite (a liquid). The compound reacts with water to form a variety of chemicals, including hypochlorous acid. Hypochlorous acid sanitizes the pool by killing bacteria and other pathogens.
Chlorine can be added directly to the water using a chemical feeder. Chlorine tablets can also be placed in skimmer boxes to provide a steady supply of chlorine.
Bromine is another type of swimming pool chemical used as a sanitizer. It is similar to chlorine but has a less penetrating smell.
Algaecides
Algae make your pool water look cloudy, green or brown. Algaecides destroy and prevent algae from growing. This swimming pool chemical can be purchased in tablet or liquid form.
Shocks
Shocks are high doses of swimming pool chemicals. They are normally used after your pool has been active for a significant amount of time. Shocks are also used periodically throughout the swimming season to disinfect the pool, kill algae, clear out organic matter and get rid of chloramines which irritate the skin and eyes.
Balancers
Balancers are swimming pool chemicals that increase or reduce the pH level to maintain the proper acidity and alkalinity of the pool. Soda ash, sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate are used to raise the pH level. Muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate lower the pH level and make the water more acidic.
Stabilizers
Stabilizers are important in swimming pools that use a chlorine-based sanitization system. These swimming pool chemicals enhance the effectiveness of chlorine.
Many companies now offer swimming pool chemical kits that include all products you will need to keep your pool clean. Special kits can also be purchased for the treatments you will need at the start and end of the pool season. Your choice of pool treatment will depend largely on personal preference and your budget.

Salt Water Pools

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:10:42 +0000

Are you thinking of installing a swimming pool in your home? You may want to consider a salt water swimming pool instead of a chlorine-treated pool. The technology used to run salt water swimming pools has become more affordable. Because of this, swimming pools that use salt water are becoming more popular.
How It Works
Saltwater swimming pools have a chlorine generator hooked up to the pool’s pump and filter system. The chlorine generator uses electrolysis to break down the chlorine in salt and produce hypochlorous acid and sodium hypochlorite, the sanitizing agents commonly used in swimming pools. Instead of adding chlorine directly, a saltwater pool uses a chemical reaction to produce chlorine.
What Are The Benefits?

The initial cost of a salt water swimming pool is quite high, but it is cheaper to maintain and operate because it is no longer necessary to purchase chlorine. The chlorine generator produces chlorine, and when the chlorine breaks down it goes back to the pool as salt and is regenerated by the system. You don’t even have to add salt very often. A salt water swimming pool can go for years without salt being added.
With a saltwater pool, you don’t have to buy, store or handle toxic chemicals. Swimmers do not suffer from stinging eyes, and there is no chlorine smell. A swimming pool that uses a salt water system is less stressful on the skin, hair and clothing compared to traditional pools treated with chlorine.
Many people prefer swimming in salt water swimming pools. The chlorine in traditional pools can damage the skin and hair. On the other hand, the mild saline solution in a saltwater pool feels softer on the skin. As the skin dries, no chlorine reside is left on the skin and you’ll feel more refreshed.
Considerations
The salt added to a saltwater pool is pure and natural ocean salt. With a saltwater system, manufacturers recommend that you regularly test the water and maintain the proper pH. Muriatic acid can be added weekly to maintain the recommended acidity and alkalinity level.
One of the biggest considerations when installing a saltwater system for the pool is the initial cost. An in-ground salt water swimming pool can cost several thousand dollars. The salt system alone with its metal cell and electronic control panel can cost about $1000.
Many people are undecided about having a salt water swimming pool installed, citing advantages and disadvantages. The cost of the saltwater system is a major concern. In the end, opting for a salt water swimming pool is a personal decision that you will have to make.

Intex Easy Set Pool Review

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:02:42 +0000

During the hot summer months everyone wants to have a pool. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford the expense of having a permanent, in-ground pool installed in their backyard. It’s a good thing there are inexpensive above-ground pools in various sizes that you can easily set up in your yard. The Intex Easy Set 15-foot-by-42-Inch Round Pool is big enough for the whole family to enjoy this summer.
If you are looking forward to having a swimming pool where you can cool off and enjoy a nice swim, you’ll be happy to know that you don’t have to spend a fortune to make your dream come true. For less than $200, you can have an Intex Easy Set up pool in your backyard. When it’s no longer needed, the pool is just as easy to take down and store. There’s no reason why you and your family should not have a swimming pool of your own.

Product Features – Intex Easy Set 15-foot-by-42-Inch Round Pool Set
Easy Set pool measures 15 ft by 42 inches deep
Suitable for smaller children, smaller yards
Ideal for families making their first pool purchase
Ready for water in 15 minutes
Comes with a filter pump, ladder, ground cloth, surface skimmer, maintenance kit and cover
Includes instructional DVD
The Intex Easy Set round pool is made with laminated PVC. Three separate layers of the material are used for extra strength and durability. Two outer layers of heavy duty PVC are laminated to an inner layer of polyester mesh to provide extra reinforcement.
This round pool has a capacity of 3,284 gallons of water.
Easy to Install
Intex Easy Set pools are known for their quality and affordable price. They are also known for their ease of installation. The Intex Easy Set 15-ft by 42 inches round pool is ready to be filled with water in less than 30 minutes.
To set up the Intex swimming pool, all you have to do is lay the ground cover on level ground that is clear of debris. Set the swimming pool on the ground cover and inflate the blue inflatable ring. The pool is now ready to be filled with water.
While filling the pool, stretch out any wrinkles inside the pool. The sides of the pool will rise as the water rises.
Easy to Maintain
To keep the pool water crystal clear, the 15-foot Intex Easy Set round pool comes with a filter pump and a maintenance kit. The maintenance kit includes a vacuum hose and an aluminum shaft with skimmer net to remove leaves and other floating debris on the pool water. Chlorine tablets can also be used to prevent the growth of algae and keep the water clean.
Fun for the Family
Once your Intex Easy Set round swimming pool is filled with water, you and your family can jump in and have fun. It’s not too deep for smaller kids but big enough for older kids to swim under water. Even adults can swim around the sides of the pool.
Good Points
Durable – The Intex swimming pool is strong and durable. The seams do not burst even with half a dozen kids playing in the pool. In the event of a puncture hole, repairs can be made with a repair kit.
Fun – The whole family will enjoy swimming and playing in this pool.
Educational – The Intex Easy Set swimming pool can build a child’s confidence and get him started on learning how to swim.
Weak Points
Filter pump is not powerful enough to keep the pool water clean. You have to use the skimmer regularly and vacuum the pool as well. Chlorine tablets in the filter help to prevent the growth of algae.
When filling the pool with water, you have to make sure the bottom seams are in the right place and there should be no creases. Otherwise, the water will spill out easily when the pool is completely filled with water.
What Customers Say
The Intex Easy Set 15-Foot-by-42-Inch Round Pool Set is an affordable toy that will allow you to enjoy the benefits of a swimming pool without having to spend a lot of money. Even adults have a lot of fun in this pool.
According to customers, the most difficult part is setting up the pool and making sure it’s flat on the ground and free from creases at the bottom. You have to keep an eye on the process while filling the pool especially at the start. Keep on smoothing out the bottom of the pool while the water is only a few inches deep.
Although it is a lot of hard work, customers agree that it is all worth it. Their kids love the pool and thoroughly enjoy swimming and playing in it.
When properly set up, the pool is very sturdy and the water holds up the sides of the pool. It is also very durable and worth the price.
Customers recommend this product to anyone who is looking for an affordable above-ground swimming pool. It is ideal for people with smaller backyards.
The Intex Easy Set 15-Foot-by-42-Inch Round Pool Set is available at many online stores including Amazon and Meijer. Amazon offers some of the best prices and delivery is fast.

Above Ground Swimming Pools

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:01:00 +0000

Do you want a swimming pool for your family to enjoy this summer? No doubt there’s only one thing holding you back, and that’s the huge amount you’d have to shell out for an in-ground pool. Well, you can have your cake and eat it too because above ground swimming pools cost only a fraction of an in-ground pool but delivers 100% of the fun.
Portable Above Ground Swimming Pools
Portable pools are very popular because they cost only a few hundred dollars and are very easy to set up. These swimming pools are made from heavy gauge vinyl for durability. They are usually designed with an inflatable top ring that rises as you fill the pool with water. This causes the walls of the swimming pool to come up.

Inexpensive
An above ground swimming pool for the family does not cost much. For a couple of hundred dollars you can have a portable swimming pool where your kids can cool off during the hot summer months. If you live in a warm climate, your family can enjoy the pool throughout the year
Easy to Set Up
Above ground swimming pools are easy to set up. You don’t have to dig up your yard to install the pool. All you have to do is pick a smooth, level surface of your yard where you can set up the pool. Spread out the pool and inflate the top ring. As you start filling the pool with water, be sure to smooth out the creases at the bottom of the pool.
Some manufacturers recommend putting a ground cover or tarp underneath the pool. This will help protect the pool from sticks, stones, and other sharp objects that may puncture the pool.
Easy to Maintain
Above ground swimming pool sets often come with a filter pump and maintenance kit to help you keep the pool water clean and clear. A cartridge filter system is necessary to remove dirt from the water, and the filter can be taken out, washed, and put in again. Chlorine tablets can be placed in the filter to prevent the growth of algae in the pool water. The swimming pool’s maintenance kit often comes with a skimmer to remove leaves and other floating debris.
Comes in All Sizes
Portable above ground swimming pools come in a variety of shapes, sizes and depth. They are usually 3 ft to 4-1/2 ft deep. Round pools come in different sizes, from 12 ft to more than 30 ft across. You can always find the perfect size for your family and for your backyard.
Fun for the Family
Your family will have fun with an above ground swimming pool. So take the plunge and get one now!