How Do YOU Choose A Swimming Pool?!
How big of a pool should I get?
A family of 4 with occasional guests will find an 18′ to 21′ adequate. 24′ pools are most common and work well with 4 to 6 bathers. Larger groups enjoying games such as water volleyball will find a 27′ to 33′ swimming pool much more desirable.
Round vs Oval
Round pools provide more swimming area at a lower price.
Ovals may be the better choice when fences, buildings, trees, or power lines limit the available area.
Steel, Polymer or Hybrid Construction?
Steel is strong and lowest cost.
Polymers are more expensive and some are actually weaker than steel.
Hybrid Steel / Polymers are often the best choice. They are strong and attractive.
Overlap vs Beaded Liners
Overlap liners are lower cost but require a bit more effort to install and require dismantling the top rail assembly to replace.
Beaded liners cost a bit more but provide a custom in-ground appearance and are easier to install. When used in conjunction with a “bead hanger”, swimming pool liners can be easily replaced.
Can I have a deep end?
It’s possible to “dog dish” a round pool or excavate a “hopper” in an oval swimming pool. An expandable overlap liner is required. This does add to the cost and complexity of construction.
Can I use my garden hose to fill the pool?
Most modern wells are capable of filling a pool in a day or two. Commercial water carriers can bring a truck load of 12,000 gallons. We have local contacts if you’d prefer to fill with a commercial carrier – please contact us.
Can we add a heater?
Yes, natural gas or propane heaters work well but can be costly to purchase and operate. Passive solar heating systems are low-cost and will extend your swimming season.
Do solar covers heat the water?
Yes, provided you have sunshine, but what they do mainly is to reduce heat loss overnight and help keep debris out of the pool. We feature a product from Natural Chemistry called COVERfree that is a “liquid solar blanket” and works very well to reduce heat loss and evaporation.
Are the chemicals expensive?
The average cost per year is about $175 for a properly maintained 21’ pool.
Which sanitizer system is best?”
Chlorine remains the #1 choice but there are excellent non-chlorine alternatives such as Pristine Blue and Clear Comfort. Supplemental mineral systems enhance the effectiveness of chlorine and provide acceptable sanitizing at 2/3 lower chlorine levels. Enzymes are also very helpful in keeping oils from masking chlorine molecules so they remain at maximum effectiveness.
How does a Salt Pool work?
Salt is added to the water and a device called a salt generator converts the salt to chlorine. There are additives to help the system remain operating efficiently. Otherwise, all other water balancing and maintenance remains the same as with chlorine tablets. The real user benefit is the simplicity of use and not having to handle the chlorine tablets. Another benefit is the water has a soft feel. Salt is less expensive and makes caring for your swimming pool easier.
How big of a filter do I need?
Circulation is important to water quality. Typically on swimming pools 21’ or larger, 1hp to 1.5hp motors with a 150# sand filter works well. On swimming pools 28’ or larger, a 250# sand filter is preferable. On smaller swimming pools (15’-18’) a smaller budget priced sand filter is adequate but needs to be run 12 hours a day.
Which filter system is best?
Sand filters provide excellent results and are easy to maintain. Sand remains effective 3 to 5 seasons before a sand change is required. Filtration quality can be further enhanced by substituting Zeobrite for filter sand.
Do I need a fence around the pool?
Generally not. 48 inch tall or taller swimming pool walls meet or exceed the height of a chain link fence. However, having a fence does add an additional layer of safety. Check with your local zoning and your insurance agent for additional information.
Can I build the pool myself?
Someone handy with tools with a little help can build a pool in a weekend. Online “How to” videos are available plus we’ll explain the process to you.
Electrical requirements?
A dedicated electrical outlet of 115V 20A with GFI is required. DO NOT USE AN EXTENSION CORD.