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Why You Should Never Put Dry Ice In Your Fibreglass Swimming Pool

Chances are, that you've already seen dry ice in action in a movie or a television show. With the help of dry ice, you'll be able to create a white fog, that can give a spooky effect as it dissipated. This is especially perfect for Halloween. If you have a fibreglass pool, you may be thinking about adding dry ice to it next Halloween. Won't that allow you to make your event look even more creepy?

dry-ice-swimming-banner

Instead of adding dry ice to a bucket of water, why not just add it directly to the water in your fibreglass pool? Adding dry ice to the water in your fibreglass pool is a really bad idea. It would not only negatively interact with the water chemistry of your pool but could also damage your fibreglass pool. You'll also be putting your friends and family at risk, by exposing them to water that dry ice has been mixed into.

What Exactly Is Dry Ice?

Dry ice is essentially just carbon dioxide in a solid form. It’s what you get when you pressurize carbon dioxide gas at around-78°C. What you’ll get is a solid called dry ice. At room temperature, carbon dioxide acts like a gas. It won’t melt in the same way actual ice would. Instead, what it goes back into the gas form, skipping the liquid form altogether.

With dry ice, you don’t have to worry about puddles or any watery residue, which is why it’s called ‘dry’ ice. Dry ice is mainly used as a cooling agent, which is found in both shipping as well as preserving medicines and foods that are frozen. You’ll also find dry ice used in fog machines, which are in theatres.

dry-ice-swimming-blogimage1

How Does Dry Ice React With Warm Water?

When dry ice is put into water that is warm, you’ll get a white fog that forms on top of the water. It will then pour over the sides of the container. Water can also end up carbonating, or it could start to bubble.

With around one pound of dry ice, you’ll be able to get the fog-like effect for around two to three minutes. If the water the dry ice is dipped into is hotter, then the ice will dissipate more quickly. The quantity in question is for generating a very small amount of white fog. Say you want to use your fibreglass pool as a makeshift fog machine. Then you’ll need to invest in hundreds if not thousands of pounds of dry ice.

What Health Hazards Are Associated With Dry Ice?

Dry ice can be dangerous for people, both internally as well as externally. Since dry ice is very cold, it can burn your skin. What you’ll experience is close to frostbite this is why you always need to wear gloves if you want to handle dry ice. If you’re trying to cut dry ice, then you’ll need to wear goggles as well as a face shield.

You should also never add dry ice directly to drinks. This is because you could end up with cryogenic burns down your throat. This also means that people who use your people, with the dry ice in it, will be exposed to dangerous burns as well.

The dry ice comes from carbon dioxide. CO2 is toxic for humans, and breathing in carbon dioxide can lead to suffocation. When you add dry ice directly to the water in your pool, the white fog that’s generated will gather around the heads of the swimmers. This can lead to them falling unconscious or suffocating.

If you have an indoor pool, then you should especially avoid adding dry ice to it. This is because the carbon dioxide that’s released will fill up the enclosed space. This could be dangerous for anyone in the space.

dry-ice-swimming-blogimage2

What Happens When A Pool Has Too Much Carbon Dioxide?

If you want the water in your fibreglass swimming pool to be healthy, then you’ll need to maintain its pH level, as well as its alkalinity level. When your pool is filled using dry ice, the CO2 that’s added to the water ends up reacting with the chemicals that are present in the pool water.

What it does, is it raises how acidic the water in the pool is, and reduces its pH levels. This can lead to you experiencing various issues with your pool. These issues include:

  • The skin could feel drier as well as itchy.
  • The surface of the pool, as well as the liners, could end up damaged. This would cause wear and tear to appear on your pool faster than normal.
  • The acidic water can also end up corroding the filtration system of your pool. It can affect both metals as well as plastic. So this can lead to your filter, the screws, and various other components getting damaged. There could also be a buildup of rust or disintegration of the plastic components. If this happens, this can both contaminate as well as discolour the water in your pool.
  • If you want your pool to have a good water balance again, you’ll need to add more chemicals to it. If you end up damaging any of the parts of your pool, then this could negatively affect your wallet as well.

That’s why you shouldn’t add dry ice to the water in your swimming pool. Instead, consider renting out a fog machine for special occasions. Not only will it be safer and cheaper, but you can also ensure that the fog lasts for a longer period of time.

Conclusion

Dry ice should never be added to the water in your fibreglass pool. This is because when the dry ice melts, it will release a large amount of CO2 in the pool water. If anyone is in the pool when the dry ice is added to it, their health could be at risk. After adding the dry ice, you also won’t be able to use your fibreglass pool for the rest of the event.

Use this guide to learn all about dry ice, as well as why you should never add it to your pool.

Why You Should Never Put Dry Ice In Your Fibreglass Swimming Pool

Chances are, that you've already seen dry ice in action in a movie or a television show. With the help of dry ice, you'll be able to create a white fog, that can give a spooky effect as it dissipated. This is especially perfect for Halloween. If you have a fibreglass pool, you may be thinking about adding dry ice to it next Halloween. Won't that allow you to make your event look even more creepy?

dry-ice-swimming-banner-m

Instead of adding dry ice to a bucket of water, why not just add it directly to the water in your fibreglass pool? Adding dry ice to the water in your fibreglass pool is a really bad idea. It would not only negatively interact with the water chemistry of your pool but could also damage your fibreglass pool. You'll also be putting your friends and family at risk, by exposing them to water that dry ice has been mixed into.

What Exactly Is Dry Ice?

Dry ice is essentially just carbon dioxide in a solid form. It’s what you get when you pressurize carbon dioxide gas at around-78°C. What you’ll get is a solid called dry ice. At room temperature, carbon dioxide acts like a gas. It won’t melt in the same way actual ice would. Instead, what it goes back into the gas form, skipping the liquid form altogether.

With dry ice, you don’t have to worry about puddles or any watery residue, which is why it’s called ‘dry’ ice. Dry ice is mainly used as a cooling agent, which is found in both shipping as well as preserving medicines and foods that are frozen. You’ll also find dry ice used in fog machines, which are in theatres.

dry-ice-swimming-blogimage1-m

How Does Dry Ice React With Warm Water?

When dry ice is put into water that is warm, you’ll get a white fog that forms on top of the water. It will then pour over the sides of the container. Water can also end up carbonating, or it could start to bubble.

With around one pound of dry ice, you’ll be able to get the fog-like effect for around two to three minutes. If the water the dry ice is dipped into is hotter, then the ice will dissipate more quickly. The quantity in question is for generating a very small amount of white fog. Say you want to use your fibreglass pool as a makeshift fog machine. Then you’ll need to invest in hundreds if not thousands of pounds of dry ice.

What Health Hazards Are Associated With Dry Ice?

Dry ice can be dangerous for people, both internally as well as externally. Since dry ice is very cold, it can burn your skin. What you’ll experience is close to frostbite this is why you always need to wear gloves if you want to handle dry ice. If you’re trying to cut dry ice, then you’ll need to wear goggles as well as a face shield.

You should also never add dry ice directly to drinks. This is because you could end up with cryogenic burns down your throat. This also means that people who use your people, with the dry ice in it, will be exposed to dangerous burns as well.

The dry ice comes from carbon dioxide. CO2 is toxic for humans, and breathing in carbon dioxide can lead to suffocation. When you add dry ice directly to the water in your pool, the white fog that’s generated will gather around the heads of the swimmers. This can lead to them falling unconscious or suffocating.

If you have an indoor pool, then you should especially avoid adding dry ice to it. This is because the carbon dioxide that’s released will fill up the enclosed space. This could be dangerous for anyone in the space.

dry-ice-swimming-blogimage2-m

What Happens When A Pool Has Too Much Carbon Dioxide?

If you want the water in your fibreglass swimming pool to be healthy, then you’ll need to maintain its pH level, as well as its alkalinity level. When your pool is filled using dry ice, the CO2 that’s added to the water ends up reacting with the chemicals that are present in the pool water.

What it does, is it raises how acidic the water in the pool is, and reduces its pH levels. This can lead to you experiencing various issues with your pool. These issues include:

  • The skin could feel drier as well as itchy.
  • The surface of the pool, as well as the liners, could end up damaged. This would cause wear and tear to appear on your pool faster than normal.
  • The acidic water can also end up corroding the filtration system of your pool. It can affect both metals as well as plastic. So this can lead to your filter, the screws, and various other components getting damaged. There could also be a buildup of rust or disintegration of the plastic components. If this happens, this can both contaminate as well as discolour the water in your pool.
  • If you want your pool to have a good water balance again, you’ll need to add more chemicals to it. If you end up damaging any of the parts of your pool, then this could negatively affect your wallet as well.

That’s why you shouldn’t add dry ice to the water in your swimming pool. Instead, consider renting out a fog machine for special occasions. Not only will it be safer and cheaper, but you can also ensure that the fog lasts for a longer period of time.

Conclusion

Dry ice should never be added to the water in your fibreglass pool. This is because when the dry ice melts, it will release a large amount of CO2 in the pool water. If anyone is in the pool when the dry ice is added to it, their health could be at risk. After adding the dry ice, you also won’t be able to use your fibreglass pool for the rest of the event.

Use this guide to learn all about dry ice, as well as why you should never add it to your pool.

Why You Should Consider Building A Pool In Winter

Fibreglass pools are usually associated with the summertime. But when you picture a swimming pool in summer- what you're actually thinking about it is people in the pool, using it. Getting your new fibreglass pool installed could take a few weeks, and that's provided there aren't any delays. So why do people usually get their pool built in the summer months?

This is because people start thinking about fibreglass pools once the temperature becomes high enough to make people want to cool off. People also want to use their new pools as soon as possible and don't often take the installation period into account. This makes the summer season the peak time for people to get pool installers to install their pools. If you already know that you want a pool, and can wait a few months to get your pool installed, then this can work to your advantage. There are actually numerous benefits associated with getting your fibreglass pool installed in winter.

1. Have Your Pool Ready for the Pool Season

The biggest benefit, of course, is that you’ll have your pool ready for use by the time the next pool season rolls around. If you get your pool installed during winter, then you can rest assured that your pool will be ready for use by next summer. You don’t have to worry about rushing to get the pool installed so you can have just a few days to use your pool.

In most cases, even if you get your pool installed during summer, you’ll barely be able to use it for one or two months, before the pool needs to be closed for winter. By getting your pool installed in winter, you’re giving your pool builder ample time to do a good job with installing your fibreglass pool.

2. More Pool Builders are Available

Since summer is the time when pool builders are the busiest, you’ll have a hard time finding a pool builder who can install your pool in time. Even by spring, pool builders start to get busy. The winter season, on the other hand, is when the pool builders have free time. You’ll always be able to find a pool builder who can install your new fibreglass pool for you, in winter.

What’s even better is that pool builders charge lower rates for off-season installation. Not only will you be able to get your pool installed efficiently, but you’ll also be paying less to get it installed. What kind of materials are available can also be affected by when you choose to get your pool installed. During the summer season, it’s harder to find materials since demand is high. Materials cost more as well.

During winter, on the other hand, the same material can be bought at lower prices. Material is also more readily available, and you can get high-quality materials at cheaper rates as well.

3. The Weather is Perfect for Pool Building

Before your pool is installed, the area will need to be dug up. The entire process of getting a new fibreglass pool installed can take a few weeks. If the weather is good, then you’ll be able to get your new pool installed much faster. During the winter season, the weather generally stays pleasant. This means that it’s less likely that rain might get in the way of your pool installation.

Both in spring as well as summer, sudden bouts of rain aren’t unusual. This means that your entire pool installation process will be delayed. Consider also how you won’t just be getting your pool installed. You’re also likely to have your pool deck built and maybe create a lounging area as well. If you get a fire pit as well, you can start using your pool deck in winter itself. By the time it’s warm enough to enter the pool water, you’ll already be familiar with your pool area.

There’s also landscaping work, that goes hand in hand with pool building. When you start designing your landscape in winter itself, you have almost four more months to finish your landscape design, before the pool season rolls in.

4. Using a Hot Tub

A lot of fibreglass pool owners decide that they want to get hot tubs or a spa, at the same time that they decide they want to get a new pool. So the hot tub and the fibreglass pool are installed at the same time. This means that even if the weather is cold, you’ll still be able to get some use out of the pool area.

Even during winter, using the hot tub shouldn’t be a problem. Anytime you feel like you want to relax in your new fibreglass pool, simply head to the hot tub. You can choose to get privacy curtains installed as well, around your hot tub.

5. Add Features Gradually

If you get your pool installed during winter, then you’ll be able to slowly add all the features you want, over the next few months. This means you can stagger how you spend your money. In summer, you might have needed to install all the features at the same time as the pool installation.

Whether you want to get pool lights installed, a few water features or other features installed, you can take your time with it. You also won’t have to figure out how to balance your pool water in a rush, as you would have in the summer months. You can take your time learning how to maintain your pool. There are certain things you’ll need to do during winter in order to maintain your pool. You’ll need to test the pool water from time to time, and should also circulate the pool water every day. But it’s easier to maintain your pool in winter than it is during summer.

Conclusion

Winter is the ideal time to get your new fibreglass pool installed. From having more pool builders available to the weather being pleasant and perfect for pool building, winter is the perfect time to install your new pool. Use this guide to learn all about what makes winter the perfect time to install your pool.

Why You Should Consider Building A Pool In Winter

Fibreglass pools are usually associated with the summertime. But when you picture a swimming pool in summer- what you're actually thinking about it is people in the pool, using it. Getting your new fibreglass pool installed could take a few weeks, and that's provided there aren't any delays. So why do people usually get their pool built in the summer months?

This is because people start thinking about fibreglass pools once the temperature becomes high enough to make people want to cool off. People also want to use their new pools as soon as possible and don't often take the installation period into account. This makes the summer season the peak time for people to get pool installers to install their pools. If you already know that you want a pool, and can wait a few months to get your pool installed, then this can work to your advantage. There are actually numerous benefits associated with getting your fibreglass pool installed in winter.

1. Have Your Pool Ready for the Pool Season

The biggest benefit, of course, is that you’ll have your pool ready for use by the time the next pool season rolls around. If you get your pool installed during winter, then you can rest assured that your pool will be ready for use by next summer. You don’t have to worry about rushing to get the pool installed so you can have just a few days to use your pool.

In most cases, even if you get your pool installed during summer, you’ll barely be able to use it for one or two months, before the pool needs to be closed for winter. By getting your pool installed in winter, you’re giving your pool builder ample time to do a good job with installing your fibreglass pool.

2. More Pool Builders are Available

Since summer is the time when pool builders are the busiest, you’ll have a hard time finding a pool builder who can install your pool in time. Even by spring, pool builders start to get busy. The winter season, on the other hand, is when the pool builders have free time. You’ll always be able to find a pool builder who can install your new fibreglass pool for you, in winter.

What’s even better is that pool builders charge lower rates for off-season installation. Not only will you be able to get your pool installed efficiently, but you’ll also be paying less to get it installed. What kind of materials are available can also be affected by when you choose to get your pool installed. During the summer season, it’s harder to find materials since demand is high. Materials cost more as well.

During winter, on the other hand, the same material can be bought at lower prices. Material is also more readily available, and you can get high-quality materials at cheaper rates as well.

3. The Weather is Perfect for Pool Building

Before your pool is installed, the area will need to be dug up. The entire process of getting a new fibreglass pool installed can take a few weeks. If the weather is good, then you’ll be able to get your new pool installed much faster. During the winter season, the weather generally stays pleasant. This means that it’s less likely that rain might get in the way of your pool installation.

Both in spring as well as summer, sudden bouts of rain aren’t unusual. This means that your entire pool installation process will be delayed. Consider also how you won’t just be getting your pool installed. You’re also likely to have your pool deck built and maybe create a lounging area as well. If you get a fire pit as well, you can start using your pool deck in winter itself. By the time it’s warm enough to enter the pool water, you’ll already be familiar with your pool area.

There’s also landscaping work, that goes hand in hand with pool building. When you start designing your landscape in winter itself, you have almost four more months to finish your landscape design, before the pool season rolls in.

4. Using a Hot Tub

A lot of fibreglass pool owners decide that they want to get hot tubs or a spa, at the same time that they decide they want to get a new pool. So the hot tub and the fibreglass pool are installed at the same time. This means that even if the weather is cold, you’ll still be able to get some use out of the pool area.

Even during winter, using the hot tub shouldn’t be a problem. Anytime you feel like you want to relax in your new fibreglass pool, simply head to the hot tub. You can choose to get privacy curtains installed as well, around your hot tub.

5. Add Features Gradually

If you get your pool installed during winter, then you’ll be able to slowly add all the features you want, over the next few months. This means you can stagger how you spend your money. In summer, you might have needed to install all the features at the same time as the pool installation.

Whether you want to get pool lights installed, a few water features or other features installed, you can take your time with it. You also won’t have to figure out how to balance your pool water in a rush, as you would have in the summer months. You can take your time learning how to maintain your pool. There are certain things you’ll need to do during winter in order to maintain your pool. You’ll need to test the pool water from time to time, and should also circulate the pool water every day. But it’s easier to maintain your pool in winter than it is during summer.

Conclusion

Winter is the ideal time to get your new fibreglass pool installed. From having more pool builders available to the weather being pleasant and perfect for pool building, winter is the perfect time to install your new pool. Use this guide to learn all about what makes winter the perfect time to install your pool.

What Should You Do If You See A Reptile/An Animal Struggling To Get Out Of Your Pool?

Having your very own fibreglass swimming pools means that you can enjoy hours of fun in the water, through the spring and summer seasons. But depending on how much wildlife is present near where you live, you may have to contend with unwanted visitors from time to time. Seeing ducks in your pool, or even lizards isn't that unusual. Sometimes, you may even find snakes in your pool. While swimming pools can be a great place for humans to enjoy, the same can't be said for wild animals. Whether it's a snake that's entered your pool or a chipmunk, there's a good chance that they are stuck in your pool. This means that they can't get out on their own, and might need extra help.

What Happens When You See An Animal In Your Pool?

There are several reasons why you might find an animal or a reptile in your pool. They might have been chasing something, or being chased by something, when they found your pool and fell in. Snakes are also known for liking moist environments and might have mistaken your pool for a shallower body of water.

Pool drownings can be tragic, even if they are wild animals. It’s not just your pets that are in danger of drowning in the pool, but also mice, snakes, frogs, ducks and young birds can also find themselves stuck in your pool.

In particular, it’s the babies of wild animals that find themselves at the most risk, should they fall into the pool. Some smaller wild animals that get curious about the neighbourhood might end up accidentally falling into your pool.

What You Should Do When An Animal Or A Reptile Is Struggling In Your Pool

If you find an animal or a reptile in your fibreglass pool, the first thing you should do is assess the situation. If the animal is struggling and in need of immediate help, then quickly get your skimmer basket, and reach out to the animal. You can also use a net to try and help the animal get out of the water.

If you see a snake on the other hand, then wear gloves first. A snake that fell into your pool might be stuck because they don’t know how to get out. Use your pool skimmer to create a makeshift bridge for them, so that they can use it to climb up to your pool deck. Be very careful when handling dangerous animals that might have fallen into your pool.

An animal that’s fallen into your pool might be scared, and this can make them more likely to bite you out of fright. That’s why using a pool skimmer to help them get out is the best. If you can’t find your pool skimmer, then you can consider using the end of the broom that’s bristled, to lift the animal.

For Larger Animals

But what do you do if you find a larger animal struggling to get out of your pool? You can create a makeshift ramp using a float that’s partially deflated. You can use the pool steps as a place to anchor your makeshift ramp. Use a weight such as cinderblocks to keep your makeshift ramp in place.

You can also tie the ramp to the ladder rail, to ensure that the ramp is secure. That way, the animal should be able to grab a hold of the ramp and hoist itself above the water.

They also will have a surface that they can crawl across, to get to dry land. Whether it’s your family dog that’s fallen into the pool or another animal, you’ll be able to get them out of the pool safely.

What Precautions Could You Take To Keep Animals Out Of Your Pool?

If you want to reduce the amount of danger that animals or reptiles can face in your backyard, then there are some things that you can do.

  • Ensure that the pool deck is designed such that it’s just under the surface of the water. This creates a shallow space around the edges of the pool, which makes it easier for the animals to climb out if they fall in.
  • You should already have a pool fence installed around your pool, but ensure that the pool fence is tall enough to prevent large animals from climbing over it as well.
  • You can have water exit devices in place as well. These are buoyant devices that you can place along the edge of your fibreglass pool. This helps animals to easily get out of the pool.
  • You can also add nylon ropes that are knotted and secure them to the edge of the pool. This knot should be at the level of the surface of the water. This allows animals to climb out more easily.

Should You Call The Wildlife Authorities?

Depending on what condition the animal or the reptile is in, you may need to call the wildlife authorities to remove the animal for you. If you see a venomous snake, for example, then don’t go near the snake or try to get rid of it yourself. Instead, call the wildlife authorities to remove the snake for you.

If the animal or reptile has come out of your pool but appears to be injured, then you should call the wildlife authorities as well. Let them know that there’s an animal in need of medical attention. Until the professionals arrive to provide medical aid to the animal, ensure that all family members are inside the house.

Conclusion

If you find an animal or a reptile in your pool, then don’t panic. There are several things that you can do, to help the animal come out of your pool. You should also consider taking preventative measures to ensure that animals don’t accidentally end up in your pool in the first place. This guide details what you can do to help animals or reptiles that might be in your pool. Learn also how you can prevent them from falling into your pool in the first place.

What Should You Do If You See A Reptile/An Animal Struggling To Get Out Of Your Pool?

Having your very own fibreglass swimming pools means that you can enjoy hours of fun in the water, through the spring and summer seasons. But depending on how much wildlife is present near where you live, you may have to contend with unwanted visitors from time to time. Seeing ducks in your pool, or even lizards isn't that unusual. Sometimes, you may even find snakes in your pool. While swimming pools can be a great place for humans to enjoy, the same can't be said for wild animals. Whether it's a snake that's entered your pool or a chipmunk, there's a good chance that they are stuck in your pool. This means that they can't get out on their own, and might need extra help.

What Happens When You See An Animal In Your Pool?

There are several reasons why you might find an animal or a reptile in your pool. They might have been chasing something, or being chased by something, when they found your pool and fell in. Snakes are also known for liking moist environments and might have mistaken your pool for a shallower body of water.

Pool drownings can be tragic, even if they are wild animals. It’s not just your pets that are in danger of drowning in the pool, but also mice, snakes, frogs, ducks and young birds can also find themselves stuck in your pool.

In particular, it’s the babies of wild animals that find themselves at the most risk, should they fall into the pool. Some smaller wild animals that get curious about the neighbourhood might end up accidentally falling into your pool.

What You Should Do When An Animal Or A Reptile Is Struggling In Your Pool

If you find an animal or a reptile in your fibreglass pool, the first thing you should do is assess the situation. If the animal is struggling and in need of immediate help, then quickly get your skimmer basket, and reach out to the animal. You can also use a net to try and help the animal get out of the water.

If you see a snake on the other hand, then wear gloves first. A snake that fell into your pool might be stuck because they don’t know how to get out. Use your pool skimmer to create a makeshift bridge for them, so that they can use it to climb up to your pool deck. Be very careful when handling dangerous animals that might have fallen into your pool.

An animal that’s fallen into your pool might be scared, and this can make them more likely to bite you out of fright. That’s why using a pool skimmer to help them get out is the best. If you can’t find your pool skimmer, then you can consider using the end of the broom that’s bristled, to lift the animal.

For Larger Animals

But what do you do if you find a larger animal struggling to get out of your pool? You can create a makeshift ramp using a float that’s partially deflated. You can use the pool steps as a place to anchor your makeshift ramp. Use a weight such as cinderblocks to keep your makeshift ramp in place.

You can also tie the ramp to the ladder rail, to ensure that the ramp is secure. That way, the animal should be able to grab a hold of the ramp and hoist itself above the water.

They also will have a surface that they can crawl across, to get to dry land. Whether it’s your family dog that’s fallen into the pool or another animal, you’ll be able to get them out of the pool safely.

What Precautions Could You Take To Keep Animals Out Of Your Pool?

If you want to reduce the amount of danger that animals or reptiles can face in your backyard, then there are some things that you can do.

  • Ensure that the pool deck is designed such that it’s just under the surface of the water. This creates a shallow space around the edges of the pool, which makes it easier for the animals to climb out if they fall in.
  • You should already have a pool fence installed around your pool, but ensure that the pool fence is tall enough to prevent large animals from climbing over it as well.
  • You can have water exit devices in place as well. These are buoyant devices that you can place along the edge of your fibreglass pool. This helps animals to easily get out of the pool.
  • You can also add nylon ropes that are knotted and secure them to the edge of the pool. This knot should be at the level of the surface of the water. This allows animals to climb out more easily.

Should You Call The Wildlife Authorities?

Depending on what condition the animal or the reptile is in, you may need to call the wildlife authorities to remove the animal for you. If you see a venomous snake, for example, then don’t go near the snake or try to get rid of it yourself. Instead, call the wildlife authorities to remove the snake for you.

If the animal or reptile has come out of your pool but appears to be injured, then you should call the wildlife authorities as well. Let them know that there’s an animal in need of medical attention. Until the professionals arrive to provide medical aid to the animal, ensure that all family members are inside the house.

Conclusion

If you find an animal or a reptile in your pool, then don’t panic. There are several things that you can do, to help the animal come out of your pool. You should also consider taking preventative measures to ensure that animals don’t accidentally end up in your pool in the first place. This guide details what you can do to help animals or reptiles that might be in your pool. Learn also how you can prevent them from falling into your pool in the first place.

4 Ways To Keep Birds Away From Your Pool

The pool season is right around the corner, and you could be looking forward to using your fibreglass pool through the season. Say you're heading out for a swim at around 10 AM on a nice Sunday morning. You walk out into your backyard and find that you aren't the first person to use your pool today.

A swallow could be sitting perched on the ladders leading into your pool, trying to wash its feathers. Maybe a few ducks have entered your fibreglass pool and are swimming around in it.

Having birds in your pool can be a problem. This is because they often leave behind feathers and droppings. If birds regularly visit your pool, then there’s a lot of cleaning up that you’ll need to keep doing. At the same time, your pool can also be a dangerous place for birds. This especially applies to birds who are still young and have just started learning how to fly.

But is there anything you can do to prevent birds from entering your pool? Actually, there is.

Keep the pool covered

A sturdy pool cover can be your best friend in preventing birds from entering your pool. You can even use pool netting to keep your pool covered when you’re not using it. Solar pool covers are another good option. They prevent not just birds, but even people and pets from falling into your pool.

Some birds might still want to drift on the top of your pool. If your pool is covered, then such birds will find the surface of the pool unsteady. The birds that want to go swimming in your pool also won’t be able to do that. When they find that they can’t reach the water under your pool cover, they’ll give up.

Make use of pool toys

Pool toys can be extremely useful for keeping birds out of your fibreglass pool. A floaty can be fun to lounge on, but they also deter birds from entering your pool. You can also make use of other pool equipment to prevent birds from entering your pool.

A floaty that’s shaped like a predator can make the birds fearful of coming near your pool. Consider getting floaties that are shaped like alligators, dolphins, and even sharks. The birds won’t be able to tell that these floaties are fake and not real predators. This will make them wary of coming anywhere near your fibreglass pool.

If you use pool equipment like an automatic pool cleaner, then this could also help in keeping the birds away. When your pool cleaner is doing its job, birds will see it as a threat. They see something moving around in the water, and it makes them hesitant to enter your pool.

Birds don’t need to be able to exactly see what’s moving around under the water, but simply seeing movement can scare them off. You can make use of toys that are inflatable to keep birds as well as other critters from falling into your pool. Should a bird or a critter accidentally fall into your pool, then the inflatable toy can give them something to hold on to, as they try to escape.

Use deterrents that are outside the water

You can make use of scarecrows as well as reflective elements, to keep birds out of your fibreglass pool. Let’s see how each of these works:

Scarecrows

Your scarecrow doesn’t have to be a strawman mounted on top of a pole. When it comes to deterring birds, you can even make use of a predator that’s fake, to ward them off. Get a fake owl, falcon or hawk. When the birds see potential predators in your yard, they’ll think twice before coming anywhere near your yard.

Remember to move the scarecrow around from time to time. This is in order to prevent the birds from getting used to the fake predators staying in the same place. Note that the birds won’t know whether your fake predators are real or not. But seeing them in the same place every day without reacting to the birds may make them think they can approach your pool.

Reflective elements

Based on what kind of layout your backyard has, you may be able to attach some fishing line leading from the roof of your home, to the fence. Do this in a pattern that is criss-cross, or you could also buy netting that’s already been strung.

This can prevent birds from flying too close to your pool. It’s especially important to note that the netting you hang has to be so high that it doesn’t get in the way of humans using your pool. You can even add reflective banners or even add tape to the fence posts that are around your pool.

Pets like dogs and cats can also help to keep birds away. Simply let them play in your yard from time to time, and the birds will know to leave your yard alone.

Give them an alternative

Although many homeowners see birds around their fibreglass pool as a menace, there are also several benefits to having them in your yard. They help with:

  • Mosquitoes love bodies of water, making them attracted to pools in people’s homes. Birds are great at keeping mosquitoes away from your yard. They can also help in controlling other pests like spiders and aphids.
  • Some birds, like hummingbirds, are very good at pollinating. So, if you have a garden in your backyard, then birds that love nectar can help you grow your garden.
  • Not all birds eat insects. Some, like finches and sparrows, actually eat weeds. So, if you have plants in your yard that are unwanted, then birds can help you get rid of those weeds.

You can install a bird bath if you want to give the birds a special place where they can prune themselves. When the birds are sharing your backyard in a way where they don’t disturb you, you can enjoy watching them as well as listening to them sing. You can enjoy several other benefits associated with allowing birds in your yard as well.

Conclusion

Birds can be a menace for fibreglass pool owners, but there are several things you can do to keep them away from your yard. You can build structures, especially for birds, like birdhouses and bird baths, so that the birds leave your pool alone. From keeping your pool cover on when you’re not using your pool, to installing netting above your pool, there’s a lot you can do. This guide can help you learn about the steps you can take to keep birds away from your pool.

4 Ways To Keep Birds Away From Your Pool

The pool season is right around the corner, and you could be looking forward to using your fibreglass pool through the season. Say you're heading out for a swim at around 10 AM on a nice Sunday morning. You walk out into your backyard and find that you aren't the first person to use your pool today.

A swallow could be sitting perched on the ladders leading into your pool, trying to wash its feathers. Maybe a few ducks have entered your fibreglass pool and are swimming around in it.

Having birds in your pool can be a problem. This is because they often leave behind feathers and droppings. If birds regularly visit your pool, then there’s a lot of cleaning up that you’ll need to keep doing. At the same time, your pool can also be a dangerous place for birds. This especially applies to birds who are still young and have just started learning how to fly.

But is there anything you can do to prevent birds from entering your pool? Actually, there is.

Keep the pool covered

A sturdy pool cover can be your best friend in preventing birds from entering your pool. You can even use pool netting to keep your pool covered when you’re not using it. Solar pool covers are another good option. They prevent not just birds, but even people and pets from falling into your pool.

Some birds might still want to drift on the top of your pool. If your pool is covered, then such birds will find the surface of the pool unsteady. The birds that want to go swimming in your pool also won’t be able to do that. When they find that they can’t reach the water under your pool cover, they’ll give up.

Make use of pool toys

Pool toys can be extremely useful for keeping birds out of your fibreglass pool. A floaty can be fun to lounge on, but they also deter birds from entering your pool. You can also make use of other pool equipment to prevent birds from entering your pool.

A floaty that’s shaped like a predator can make the birds fearful of coming near your pool. Consider getting floaties that are shaped like alligators, dolphins, and even sharks. The birds won’t be able to tell that these floaties are fake and not real predators. This will make them wary of coming anywhere near your fibreglass pool.

If you use pool equipment like an automatic pool cleaner, then this could also help in keeping the birds away. When your pool cleaner is doing its job, birds will see it as a threat. They see something moving around in the water, and it makes them hesitant to enter your pool.

Birds don’t need to be able to exactly see what’s moving around under the water, but simply seeing movement can scare them off. You can make use of toys that are inflatable to keep birds as well as other critters from falling into your pool. Should a bird or a critter accidentally fall into your pool, then the inflatable toy can give them something to hold on to, as they try to escape.

Use deterrents that are outside the water

You can make use of scarecrows as well as reflective elements, to keep birds out of your fibreglass pool. Let’s see how each of these works:

Scarecrows

Your scarecrow doesn’t have to be a strawman mounted on top of a pole. When it comes to deterring birds, you can even make use of a predator that’s fake, to ward them off. Get a fake owl, falcon or hawk. When the birds see potential predators in your yard, they’ll think twice before coming anywhere near your yard.

Remember to move the scarecrow around from time to time. This is in order to prevent the birds from getting used to the fake predators staying in the same place. Note that the birds won’t know whether your fake predators are real or not. But seeing them in the same place every day without reacting to the birds may make them think they can approach your pool.

Reflective elements

Based on what kind of layout your backyard has, you may be able to attach some fishing line leading from the roof of your home, to the fence. Do this in a pattern that is criss-cross, or you could also buy netting that’s already been strung.

This can prevent birds from flying too close to your pool. It’s especially important to note that the netting you hang has to be so high that it doesn’t get in the way of humans using your pool. You can even add reflective banners or even add tape to the fence posts that are around your pool.

Pets like dogs and cats can also help to keep birds away. Simply let them play in your yard from time to time, and the birds will know to leave your yard alone.

Give them an alternative

Although many homeowners see birds around their fibreglass pool as a menace, there are also several benefits to having them in your yard. They help with:

  • Mosquitoes love bodies of water, making them attracted to pools in people’s homes. Birds are great at keeping mosquitoes away from your yard. They can also help in controlling other pests like spiders and aphids.
  • Some birds, like hummingbirds, are very good at pollinating. So, if you have a garden in your backyard, then birds that love nectar can help you grow your garden.
  • Not all birds eat insects. Some, like finches and sparrows, actually eat weeds. So, if you have plants in your yard that are unwanted, then birds can help you get rid of those weeds.

You can install a bird bath if you want to give the birds a special place where they can prune themselves. When the birds are sharing your backyard in a way where they don’t disturb you, you can enjoy watching them as well as listening to them sing. You can enjoy several other benefits associated with allowing birds in your yard as well.

Conclusion

Birds can be a menace for fibreglass pool owners, but there are several things you can do to keep them away from your yard. You can build structures, especially for birds, like birdhouses and bird baths, so that the birds leave your pool alone. From keeping your pool cover on when you’re not using your pool, to installing netting above your pool, there’s a lot you can do. This guide can help you learn about the steps you can take to keep birds away from your pool.

Prevent Drowning: A Guide For Pool Owners

Owning a pool is a boon for several users. It is a great addition to your residence, especially if you own a pool from the variety of advanced fibreglass pools on offer today. These are pools that withstand all conditions and don't cost you much in terms of their maintenance. Initially, they may be expensive to put in, but once you have a fibreglass pool, you get features that translate to a plethora of benefits. If you have children at home, fibreglass pools can add to your quality of life in a big way.

Reasons for which some individuals prefer not to own a pool in backyards, besides the maintenance part, include safety concerns. Among major safety concerns is the issue of drowning. Drowning can, and does, occur in just a few inches of water. The misconception that pool accidents related to drowning occur in deep water is unfounded. What's more, a child or an adult may know how to swim, but still can be a victim of drowning accidents. Some of the most crucial home pool tips include those to prevent drowning and create a safe pool atmosphere.

Drowning prevention

The prevention of drowning should be on the agenda of all individuals who own home swimming pools today. As you may well know, accidents around the home are all too common, but drowning incidents if you have a pool is quite frequent too. Significantly, drowning has been recorded as the fourth top cause of death around a home. Since there are various people of different age groups using the pool at any single time, there are different ways to prevent drowning for particular age groups. Nevertheless, there are general tips to be safe around pools and everyone should be aware of these.

Pool education

Whether you own a pool from the variety of fibreglass pools out there or any other type, drowning incidents are just as likely if you don’t take safety protocols seriously. Teaching swimming to children does not ensure that drowning is prevented. Swimming and pool education must extend to safety rules first, even before you venture into teaching children the actual activity of swimming. If children know what the rules pertaining to safety are, they can inculcate them early, and this helps them when they are adults too.

Children and water safety

Among the first home pool tips on safety is educating children about water safety. This doesn’t just hold true if you own a pool, but also if you live in the vicinity of a pond or a lake. For children, especially if they are quite young, a swim jacket is a necessity before getting into the water, or in an area with water. This must be inculcated so that it becomes a habit for children. Typically, swimming lessons start when a child is very young, only a year or two at times, so having a swim jacket is crucial. The good side of starting swimming lessons at an early age is that children learn about water and safety issues very soon. Additionally, they learn to swim early, and this helps to prevent drowning incidents as well.

Safety training

If children are into or close to being teenagers, you may consider lifeguard training for children. This is a comprehensive way to learn about swimming safety rules. These training sessions and workshops can help adults and young children too. Another rule of thumb while children are swimming in home swimming pools, is to supervise them. It takes mere seconds for a child to be left unattended and for drowning to occur. Adults should care never to turn their backs on children. A good idea is to put a fence around the pool. Nonetheless, this acts as a safety measure provided children are not already in the pool.

Dangers less obvious

Fibreglass pools are among the safest pools you can own today, with features like anti-slip surfaces. They are also safe in the way that they do not accumulate dirt and grime quickly, which may cause the pool water to become unsafe to swim in. Still, however safe the actual pools may be, associated pool aspects may prove to be hazardous if you are not cautious around pools. Certain pool add-ons like hot tubs and jacuzzies, water add-ons like fountains and jets, slides, slippery ditches or the ground around your backyard due to rain, could all be hazardous factors.

Use sensors

Sensors are advanced ways to tell you, much like alarms, that children or anyone else may be near or in a pool. While adults may be busy with chores in parts of the home, children have sneaky ways to get to pools and the areas surrounding them. Drowning incidents relating to home swimming pools often occur this way, and parents need to be certain of where their children are at all times. Alarms with motion sensors are a good solution. These can be installed on doors leading to your backyard, or in the pool area so you know someone is at the pool. When alarms repeatedly go off, children may also learn to be less sneaky and stay indoors, by habit.

Safety for adults

When you select your dream pool from the many fibreglass pools on offer, you may feel a sense of pride that you own it. Nonetheless, safety for adults around the pool should cross your mind. While some child safety tips can apply to adult safety as well, there are certain things adults must be wary of near a pool. Firstly, adults should never consume alcohol while near pools. This is a variable that causes around seventy per cent of most pool deaths in teenagers and adults. Be aware that alcohol and water do not mix. Alcohol impairs the sense of balance and control over your mind and body.

Conclusion

Adults must be responsible for children and themselves while they are in a pool’s vicinity. Besides alcohol use, adults should also never consume certain drugs, prescription or otherwise, while being near or in a pool. Furthermore, in case there are pets at home, they should be prevented from entering the pool area, either with the use of barricades or fencing. Pool safety is as important as any other aspect of owning a pool, if not the most important factor.

Pool safety is paramount to ensure that risk is heavily minimised while swimming or while supervising swimmers. Making sure you are not distracted and that you have basic first aid skills, CPR knowledge and situational awareness can be the difference between life and death. Swimming can be extremely fun, but staying safe is better.

Life can be busy. Anybody can get distracted and kids will be kids. There are many helpful additions that can be your eyes if you are not physically there. Pool sensors and video cameras are both ways to achieve peace of mind if you cannot be physically present. Contact us today for more information!

Prevent Drowning: A Guide For Pool Owners

Owning a pool is a boon for several users. It is a great addition to your residence, especially if you own a pool from the variety of advanced fibreglass pools on offer today. These are pools that withstand all conditions and don't cost you much in terms of their maintenance. Initially, they may be expensive to put in, but once you have a fibreglass pool, you get features that translate to a plethora of benefits. If you have children at home, fibreglass pools can add to your quality of life in a big way.

Reasons for which some individuals prefer not to own a pool in backyards, besides the maintenance part, include safety concerns. Among major safety concerns is the issue of drowning. Drowning can, and does, occur in just a few inches of water. The misconception that pool accidents related to drowning occur in deep water is unfounded. What's more, a child or an adult may know how to swim, but still can be a victim of drowning accidents. Some of the most crucial home pool tips include those to prevent drowning and create a safe pool atmosphere.

Drowning prevention

The prevention of drowning should be on the agenda of all individuals who own home swimming pools today. As you may well know, accidents around the home are all too common, but drowning incidents if you have a pool is quite frequent too. Significantly, drowning has been recorded as the fourth top cause of death around a home. Since there are various people of different age groups using the pool at any single time, there are different ways to prevent drowning for particular age groups. Nevertheless, there are general tips to be safe around pools and everyone should be aware of these.

Pool education

Whether you own a pool from the variety of fibreglass pools out there or any other type, drowning incidents are just as likely if you don’t take safety protocols seriously. Teaching swimming to children does not ensure that drowning is prevented. Swimming and pool education must extend to safety rules first, even before you venture into teaching children the actual activity of swimming. If children know what the rules pertaining to safety are, they can inculcate them early, and this helps them when they are adults too.

Children and water safety

Among the first home pool tips on safety is educating children about water safety. This doesn’t just hold true if you own a pool, but also if you live in the vicinity of a pond or a lake. For children, especially if they are quite young, a swim jacket is a necessity before getting into the water, or in an area with water. This must be inculcated so that it becomes a habit for children. Typically, swimming lessons start when a child is very young, only a year or two at times, so having a swim jacket is crucial. The good side of starting swimming lessons at an early age is that children learn about water and safety issues very soon. Additionally, they learn to swim early, and this helps to prevent drowning incidents as well.

Safety training

If children are into or close to being teenagers, you may consider lifeguard training for children. This is a comprehensive way to learn about swimming safety rules. These training sessions and workshops can help adults and young children too. Another rule of thumb while children are swimming in home swimming pools, is to supervise them. It takes mere seconds for a child to be left unattended and for drowning to occur. Adults should care never to turn their backs on children. A good idea is to put a fence around the pool. Nonetheless, this acts as a safety measure provided children are not already in the pool.

Dangers less obvious

Fibreglass pools are among the safest pools you can own today, with features like anti-slip surfaces. They are also safe in the way that they do not accumulate dirt and grime quickly, which may cause the pool water to become unsafe to swim in. Still, however safe the actual pools may be, associated pool aspects may prove to be hazardous if you are not cautious around pools. Certain pool add-ons like hot tubs and jacuzzies, water add-ons like fountains and jets, slides, slippery ditches or the ground around your backyard due to rain, could all be hazardous factors.

Use sensors

Sensors are advanced ways to tell you, much like alarms, that children or anyone else may be near or in a pool. While adults may be busy with chores in parts of the home, children have sneaky ways to get to pools and the areas surrounding them. Drowning incidents relating to home swimming pools often occur this way, and parents need to be certain of where their children are at all times. Alarms with motion sensors are a good solution. These can be installed on doors leading to your backyard, or in the pool area so you know someone is at the pool. When alarms repeatedly go off, children may also learn to be less sneaky and stay indoors, by habit.

Safety for adults

When you select your dream pool from the many fibreglass pools on offer, you may feel a sense of pride that you own it. Nonetheless, safety for adults around the pool should cross your mind. While some child safety tips can apply to adult safety as well, there are certain things adults must be wary of near a pool. Firstly, adults should never consume alcohol while near pools. This is a variable that causes around seventy per cent of most pool deaths in teenagers and adults. Be aware that alcohol and water do not mix. Alcohol impairs the sense of balance and control over your mind and body.

Conclusion

Adults must be responsible for children and themselves while they are in a pool’s vicinity. Besides alcohol use, adults should also never consume certain drugs, prescription or otherwise, while being near or in a pool. Furthermore, in case there are pets at home, they should be prevented from entering the pool area, either with the use of barricades or fencing. Pool safety is as important as any other aspect of owning a pool, if not the most important factor.

Pool safety is paramount to ensure that risk is heavily minimised while swimming or while supervising swimmers. Making sure you are not distracted and that you have basic first aid skills, CPR knowledge and situational awareness can be the difference between life and death. Swimming can be extremely fun, but staying safe is better.

Life can be busy. Anybody can get distracted and kids will be kids. There are many helpful additions that can be your eyes if you are not physically there. Pool sensors and video cameras are both ways to achieve peace of mind if you cannot be physically present. Contact us today for more information!

Things To Keep In Mind While Buying A Pool Safety Fence

When you have a fibreglass pool at your home, then you and your family can enjoy hours together, having fun. But in order to have a fibreglass pool installed in your home, you'll also need to get a pool safety fence. This is because the safety of your kids and even your pets can otherwise be affected.

When you have a pool fence, both your kids and your pets are less likely to fall into the water in your fibreglass pool. But with so many pool fence options available to you, how do you know what you should get? There are several factors that you should look at when you select a pool fence. These include:

The material

The pool fence that you get should be strong as well as durable. There are various materials that pool fences can be made out of. There are people who get pool fences made of wood because they like the way that it looks. There are others who get a vinyl pool fence because they feel that maintaining it is easier.

There are also people who get iron pool fences, as they are more durable. When it comes to what kind of pool fence is the safest for you, then consider mesh fencing that is removable. This kind of pool fence is widely considered to be the safest, especially as it is made keeping pool safety in mind.

Permanent or removable

If you get a pool fence that is permanent, then you won’t be able to remove it when you like. It can actually be pretty expensive to move a pool fence that is permanent. If you’re worried about this, then opt for a pool fence that is removable. When you get a pool fence that is removable, you’ll be able to remove it any time you need more space around your pool.

It takes very little effort to attach your pool fence around your pool and then remove it. When you want people to enjoy more space around your pool, all you have to do is remove the pool fence. Any time people aren’t using your pool, especially should there be pets or kids in the yard, then ensure that your pool fence is in place.

The cost

What your pool fence costs may or may not include the price of installation as well. Always ensure that you confirm whether the installation price is included in the cost of the fence. Depending on how high you want the pool fence to be, its cost could vary. Another factor affecting how much your pool fence will cost is how much total footage you want to be covered.

If there are more gates that you want with your fence, then this could also affect the price of your fence. First, decide on what safety features you want your pool fence to have. Should it be high? Do you want more than one gate in your pool fence? Do you want it to be a permanent fence? All these factors will affect how much it costs, so ensure that you consider all these first.

The design

Say you’ve already decided what material you want your pool fence to be made of. Maybe you’ve decided to get a pool fence made of mesh. Or you may want your pool fence to be made of glass. Now that you know what the material your pool fence is made of is, you’ll need to think of how your pool area will be enclosed.

Your pool fence needs to be high enough to prevent both children as well as legs from climbing over your fence and jumping into your pool. The pool fence gate should also open outwards. It’s also a good idea for your pool fence to have a latch that is self-closing.

The colour of your pool fence

Another factor you should consider is what the colour of your pool fence should be. If your pool fence is made of a material such as iron or wood, then you’ll be able to paint it. You could also be looking for a fence that comes already coloured. If your pool fence is already coloured, then consider how it will blend into your backyard. Will it go well with the colour of your house and your pool?

A good pool fence should be able to blend well into the surroundings of your home. Pool fencing made of fine mesh can come in various colours. It’s also see-through, so you can ensure that the beautiful view of your fibreglass pool isn’t tarnished. This is of course a safety precaution as well. It’s also harder to lose sight of your kids and pets around your pool area. If anyone is in the water, you’ll be able to see it immediately.

The installation

There are people who choose to install their pool fences themselves, in order to save costs related to pool installation. However, you need both expertise as well as experience to install a pool fence properly. You’ll need to know what the right measurements are for the fence holes. You should also know what the position of your pool fence gate is.

This is why approaching a professional to install your fibreglass pool is often a better option. A professional should be able to provide you with a free quote regarding how much it will cost to install your pool fence. They’ll also let you know what options you have when it comes to a pool fence. They will review your options with you, so you know exactly what you’re getting. To install a pool fence, approaching a professional is often the best idea.

Conclusion

Getting a pool fence installed is essential, to meet the safety requirements in place to have a pool. But the pool fence you get can be of different material types, and you can even colour it to match the aesthetic of your home. Use this guide to learn more about what you should consider when choosing a pool fence for your fibreglass pool.

Things To Keep In Mind While Buying A Pool Safety Fence

When you have a fibreglass pool at your home, then you and your family can enjoy hours together, having fun. But in order to have a fibreglass pool installed in your home, you'll also need to get a pool safety fence. This is because the safety of your kids and even your pets can otherwise be affected.

When you have a pool fence, both your kids and your pets are less likely to fall into the water in your fibreglass pool. But with so many pool fence options available to you, how do you know what you should get? There are several factors that you should look at when you select a pool fence. These include:

The material

The pool fence that you get should be strong as well as durable. There are various materials that pool fences can be made out of. There are people who get pool fences made of wood because they like the way that it looks. There are others who get a vinyl pool fence because they feel that maintaining it is easier.

There are also people who get iron pool fences, as they are more durable. When it comes to what kind of pool fence is the safest for you, then consider mesh fencing that is removable. This kind of pool fence is widely considered to be the safest, especially as it is made keeping pool safety in mind.

Permanent or removable

If you get a pool fence that is permanent, then you won’t be able to remove it when you like. It can actually be pretty expensive to move a pool fence that is permanent. If you’re worried about this, then opt for a pool fence that is removable. When you get a pool fence that is removable, you’ll be able to remove it any time you need more space around your pool.

It takes very little effort to attach your pool fence around your pool and then remove it. When you want people to enjoy more space around your pool, all you have to do is remove the pool fence. Any time people aren’t using your pool, especially should there be pets or kids in the yard, then ensure that your pool fence is in place.

The cost

What your pool fence costs may or may not include the price of installation as well. Always ensure that you confirm whether the installation price is included in the cost of the fence. Depending on how high you want the pool fence to be, its cost could vary. Another factor affecting how much your pool fence will cost is how much total footage you want to be covered.

If there are more gates that you want with your fence, then this could also affect the price of your fence. First, decide on what safety features you want your pool fence to have. Should it be high? Do you want more than one gate in your pool fence? Do you want it to be a permanent fence? All these factors will affect how much it costs, so ensure that you consider all these first.

The design

Say you’ve already decided what material you want your pool fence to be made of. Maybe you’ve decided to get a pool fence made of mesh. Or you may want your pool fence to be made of glass. Now that you know what the material your pool fence is made of is, you’ll need to think of how your pool area will be enclosed.

Your pool fence needs to be high enough to prevent both children as well as legs from climbing over your fence and jumping into your pool. The pool fence gate should also open outwards. It’s also a good idea for your pool fence to have a latch that is self-closing.

The colour of your pool fence

Another factor you should consider is what the colour of your pool fence should be. If your pool fence is made of a material such as iron or wood, then you’ll be able to paint it. You could also be looking for a fence that comes already coloured. If your pool fence is already coloured, then consider how it will blend into your backyard. Will it go well with the colour of your house and your pool?

A good pool fence should be able to blend well into the surroundings of your home. Pool fencing made of fine mesh can come in various colours. It’s also see-through, so you can ensure that the beautiful view of your fibreglass pool isn’t tarnished. This is of course a safety precaution as well. It’s also harder to lose sight of your kids and pets around your pool area. If anyone is in the water, you’ll be able to see it immediately.

The installation

There are people who choose to install their pool fences themselves, in order to save costs related to pool installation. However, you need both expertise as well as experience to install a pool fence properly. You’ll need to know what the right measurements are for the fence holes. You should also know what the position of your pool fence gate is.

This is why approaching a professional to install your fibreglass pool is often a better option. A professional should be able to provide you with a free quote regarding how much it will cost to install your pool fence. They’ll also let you know what options you have when it comes to a pool fence. They will review your options with you, so you know exactly what you’re getting. To install a pool fence, approaching a professional is often the best idea.

Conclusion

Getting a pool fence installed is essential, to meet the safety requirements in place to have a pool. But the pool fence you get can be of different material types, and you can even colour it to match the aesthetic of your home. Use this guide to learn more about what you should consider when choosing a pool fence for your fibreglass pool.

Why You Should Always Keep An Eye On The Pool Filter Pressure Gauge

The pressure gauge of the pool filter of your fibreglass pool is a relatively inexpensive piece of equipment. However, despite its price, it plays the role of a pool technician as well. In order to communicate with this pool technician, however, you'll have to rely on numbers. The pressure gauge is also not good at helping you with manual labour, but it can let you know important information about your pool.

Should anything be wrong with your fibreglass pool, the first indication that you'll get is through the pool filter gauge. But what exactly is a pool filter pressure gauge?

Pool Pressure Gauge: What Is It?

The pressure gauge lets you know what the PSI of the pool filter is. The pool filter requires pressure within the tank, in order to function. Any time the filter pressure appears normal, this means that water is moving through in a seamless manner. It also means that your other pool equipment is also operating efficiently.

If this pressure ends up rising too much or falling too low, then this can affect how the water flows through the system. When this happens, the circulation system of your fibreglass pool won’t be working well. If repairs and replacements are needed, then they can be expensive.

Essentially, the pool pressure gauge is the small dial that you can find on top of the pool filter. It looks very similar to what thermometers used to look like before. It also looks similar to cooking thermometers, like the kind used to test the internal temperature of turkeys and steaks. When you check this small dial, you’ll be able to monitor the pressure in the filter.

What Kind Of Operating Pressure Is Normal?

There are a few factors that go into determining what operating pressure is ideal for your pool. These include the size of your pool pump, the horsepower of that pump, as well as the size of your pool filter. It also depends on how clean your pool filter currently is.

Although the operating pressure that’s normal for your fibreglass pool is unique, you can still find out what it is. What you’ll need to do is check what the operating pressure is when the filter media is first installed.

When you turn the pool pump on, the number you see on the gauge is what the baseline pressure is. You’ll also need to write the PSI number down after you clean the pool filter for the first time. For DE and sand filters, this is when you first backwash your pool filter. Note these two numbers down carefully, as they’ll let you know what your ideal operating range is.

What Happens When The PSI Is Too High?

Say you notice that the PSI is above what should be your normal pressure for operating. It’s often good to have the pressure be slightly high. This is because it indicates that any foreign contaminants caught by your pool filter are helping to trap more contaminants. But how do you know that the PSI is too high?

When you see that the pressure gauge is 10 PSI above the ideal range, it’s time for you to intervene. At this time, you should clean the pool filter, a vital part of a pool operating system. If you have a cartridge filter, then you’ll need to hose it down. Sand and DE filters will need to be backwashed. When backwashing your pool filter, ensure that it’s being backwashed to the right area. You don’t want to end up getting fined by the local government for environmental contamination.

If you’ve cleaned your pool filter, but this didn’t lower your PSI, it’s time for a replacement. If you didn’t know what the normal range for operating was before, you can use this opportunity to find out.

What If The PSI Is Still High?

There’s a relief valve for air in the pool pressure gauge, which is responsible for keeping the level of the pressure in check. Should the PSI be high even after replacing the filter media, the issue could be a relief valve for air. If air has gotten into your filter, then this is a problem. You’ll need to check the water level of your pool.

If the water level isn’t halfway submerging the skimmer, then this could be where the air is entering from. To fix this issue, open your air relief valve while running the pool filter. You should allow the filter to run until you notice water leaking from the valve. Consider priming your pump as well, as there could be air in other parts of your pool system as well.

What Happens When The PSI Is Too Low?

If the PSI number on the pool pressure gauge is too low, then this means that the water is not flowing how it should. If you see that the PSI figure is 5 PSI under what it should be, then you’ll need to do some unclogging. This is because it’s likely that there is some kind of blockage.

This blockage could be located near the filter. You’ll need to inspect the pool skimmers as well as the drain covers. Your pump basket as well as pump impeller will also need to be checked. You might find dirt, leaves, twigs, and other foreign contaminants, causing a blockage.

If this doesn’t solve the problem, then you’re most likely dealing with a leak. Should this be the case, then you’ll most likely need to hire a pool professional to get the issue resolved.

Conclusion

Sometimes, it could be the pressure gauge itself that’s the problem. Turn your pool pump off, and then check the reading on the pressure gauge. It should show a zero. If this isn’t the case, then the gauge could be the issue. A pool professional should be able to help you deal with the issue.

Keeping an eye on the pool pressure gauge is important, as you can monitor how well your pool system is performing. Use this guide to learn what a pool pressure gauge is, as well as why you should monitor it.

Why You Should Always Keep An Eye On The Pool Filter Pressure Gauge

The pressure gauge of the pool filter of your fibreglass pool is a relatively inexpensive piece of equipment. However, despite its price, it plays the role of a pool technician as well. In order to communicate with this pool technician, however, you'll have to rely on numbers. The pressure gauge is also not good at helping you with manual labour, but it can let you know important information about your pool.

Should anything be wrong with your fibreglass pool, the first indication that you'll get is through the pool filter gauge. But what exactly is a pool filter pressure gauge?

Pool Pressure Gauge: What Is It?

The pressure gauge lets you know what the PSI of the pool filter is. The pool filter requires pressure within the tank, in order to function. Any time the filter pressure appears normal, this means that water is moving through in a seamless manner. It also means that your other pool equipment is also operating efficiently.

If this pressure ends up rising too much or falling too low, then this can affect how the water flows through the system. When this happens, the circulation system of your fibreglass pool won’t be working well. If repairs and replacements are needed, then they can be expensive.

Essentially, the pool pressure gauge is the small dial that you can find on top of the pool filter. It looks very similar to what thermometers used to look like before. It also looks similar to cooking thermometers, like the kind used to test the internal temperature of turkeys and steaks. When you check this small dial, you’ll be able to monitor the pressure in the filter.

What Kind Of Operating Pressure Is Normal?

There are a few factors that go into determining what operating pressure is ideal for your pool. These include the size of your pool pump, the horsepower of that pump, as well as the size of your pool filter. It also depends on how clean your pool filter currently is.

Although the operating pressure that’s normal for your fibreglass pool is unique, you can still find out what it is. What you’ll need to do is check what the operating pressure is when the filter media is first installed.

When you turn the pool pump on, the number you see on the gauge is what the baseline pressure is. You’ll also need to write the PSI number down after you clean the pool filter for the first time. For DE and sand filters, this is when you first backwash your pool filter. Note these two numbers down carefully, as they’ll let you know what your ideal operating range is.

What Happens When The PSI Is Too High?

Say you notice that the PSI is above what should be your normal pressure for operating. It’s often good to have the pressure be slightly high. This is because it indicates that any foreign contaminants caught by your pool filter are helping to trap more contaminants. But how do you know that the PSI is too high?

When you see that the pressure gauge is 10 PSI above the ideal range, it’s time for you to intervene. At this time, you should clean the pool filter, a vital part of a pool operating system. If you have a cartridge filter, then you’ll need to hose it down. Sand and DE filters will need to be backwashed. When backwashing your pool filter, ensure that it’s being backwashed to the right area. You don’t want to end up getting fined by the local government for environmental contamination.

If you’ve cleaned your pool filter, but this didn’t lower your PSI, it’s time for a replacement. If you didn’t know what the normal range for operating was before, you can use this opportunity to find out.

What If The PSI Is Still High?

There’s a relief valve for air in the pool pressure gauge, which is responsible for keeping the level of the pressure in check. Should the PSI be high even after replacing the filter media, the issue could be a relief valve for air. If air has gotten into your filter, then this is a problem. You’ll need to check the water level of your pool.

If the water level isn’t halfway submerging the skimmer, then this could be where the air is entering from. To fix this issue, open your air relief valve while running the pool filter. You should allow the filter to run until you notice water leaking from the valve. Consider priming your pump as well, as there could be air in other parts of your pool system as well.

What Happens When The PSI Is Too Low?

If the PSI number on the pool pressure gauge is too low, then this means that the water is not flowing how it should. If you see that the PSI figure is 5 PSI under what it should be, then you’ll need to do some unclogging. This is because it’s likely that there is some kind of blockage.

This blockage could be located near the filter. You’ll need to inspect the pool skimmers as well as the drain covers. Your pump basket as well as pump impeller will also need to be checked. You might find dirt, leaves, twigs, and other foreign contaminants, causing a blockage.

If this doesn’t solve the problem, then you’re most likely dealing with a leak. Should this be the case, then you’ll most likely need to hire a pool professional to get the issue resolved.

Conclusion

Sometimes, it could be the pressure gauge itself that’s the problem. Turn your pool pump off, and then check the reading on the pressure gauge. It should show a zero. If this isn’t the case, then the gauge could be the issue. A pool professional should be able to help you deal with the issue.

Keeping an eye on the pool pressure gauge is important, as you can monitor how well your pool system is performing. Use this guide to learn what a pool pressure gauge is, as well as why you should monitor it.

Understanding How A Solar Pool Heater Works

One way you can keep the water in your fibreglass pool heated is with a solar pool heater. In solar pool heaters, the water from the pool is passed through several tubes. These tubes are also known as solar absorbers and collectors. They are usually mounted either on the ground or on the roof of the building.

The heat from the Sun is used to circulate the water in your pool. Once it’s heated, it’s then returned to the pool. A solar pool heater is completely automated and can work seamlessly with the pool equipment that you have. You can use the control panel on your solar water heater, to set what temperature you want your pool to be heated to.

In your solar pool heater, there’s a motorised valve that’s automated, that is responsible for directing water towards solar panels. Then, it directs heat from the solar panels back towards the pool. This process will continue until either you’ve turned your pool filter off, or your pool has reached the desired temperature.

How Solar Pool Heaters Work

Solar pool heaters collect heat from the Sun and make use of that heat to raise the temperature of the water in your swimming pool. It pumps the water from the pool through the pool filter, and then back to the pool. On its journey back to the pool, the water has to pass through several solar collectors. These solar collectors heat the water as it’s passing through.

A solar pool collector can be made of different kinds of materials. What material your solar pool heater should be made of will depend on what kind of climate you have in your area. It will also depend on how you want to use your solar collectors. You could be someone who wants to use the pool when the temperature has gone above freezing temperatures. If this is the case then you’ll need to get a collector system that is glassless.

Unglazed And Glazed Solar Collectors

You can also find unglazed solar collectors. These are made using rubber that is heavy-duty, or sometimes plastic. Where plastic is used, this is first treated with UV light blocking. This helps to increase the longevity of solar panels.

An unglazed solar collector can be less expensive, and that also works great when used to heat indoor pools. Even in the winter months, if your pool is indoors, your solar heater will be able to keep it warm for you. Should you find yourself needing to close down your pool over the winter months, opting for an unglazed solar collector can be more cost-effective for you.

But there are several advantages to opting for glazed systems as well. A glazed collector system is actually more efficient at exchanging heat, and also capturing heat from the Sun, than an unglazed collector system. This means, no matter what the climate in your area is like, your glazed collector system will help keep your pool water warm.

What You Need To Know About The Workings Of Solar Pool Heaters

First, water from the pool is pumped through till it reaches the solar collector. Before reaching the collector, the water needs to go through filters, which remove any foreign debris from the water. When this water reaches the solar collector, it gets warmed by the heat energy from the Sun. Then, the water is returned to your fibreglass pool.

In case you live in an area with warmer weather, you can even use your collector to cool down the water in your pool, during summer. This happens if you allow the water in your pool to circulate at night, through your solar collectors.

Flow control valves are used to divert water towards the solar collector when the temperature of the solar collector is higher than that of the water in the pool. Should the temperature of the solar collector be the same as that of the water in the pool, however, the water will only pass through the solar collector. It won’t get heated and will return to your pool at the same temperature as when it left.

How Can You Select A Solar Water Heater?

It can be expensive to buy a solar water heater. But once you get a good quality solar water heater installed, it can last for many years. Good solar water heaters can efficiently heat the water in your pool for seven years at least.

But before you buy a solar water heater, there are several things that you need to evaluate. These include:

  • Determine how much access to solar energy your home has. How effective your solar pool heater will be will depend on how much sunlight it can catch.
  • What size you want your solar pool heater to be, is the next point to consider. If your pool is larger, and if your swimming seasons are longer, then you may need a bigger solar pool heater. The temperature of the place where you live, as well as your desired pool water temperature, should also be considered.
  • Consider whether your solar collectors will be mounted near your pool, on the roof of your home, or elsewhere. It should have decent exposure to sunlight.
  • Before you buy a solar pool heater, first estimate how much using it will cost compared to other pool heating systems.
  • Look also at the total installation cost as well as maintenance and how many solar panels you’ll be needing, and what thermal performance rating your solar collectors have.
  • There are building code requirements that need to be met before a solar pool heater can be installed. You’ll also need to maintain your solar pool heater properly, to ensure that it works efficiently for at least five to ten years.

Conclusion

Solar pool heaters can help you effectively heat the water in your swimming pool. However, there are several factors you should consider before you get a solar pool heater for your home. From how solar pool heaters work, to whether you should get one or not, this guide can help you learn everything you need to know about solar pool heaters.

Understanding How A Solar Pool Heater Works

One way you can keep the water in your fibreglass pool heated is with a solar pool heater. In solar pool heaters, the water from the pool is passed through several tubes. These tubes are also known as solar absorbers and collectors. They are usually mounted either on the ground or on the roof of the building.

The heat from the Sun is used to circulate the water in your pool. Once it’s heated, it’s then returned to the pool. A solar pool heater is completely automated and can work seamlessly with the pool equipment that you have. You can use the control panel on your solar water heater, to set what temperature you want your pool to be heated to.

In your solar pool heater, there’s a motorised valve that’s automated, that is responsible for directing water towards solar panels. Then, it directs heat from the solar panels back towards the pool. This process will continue until either you’ve turned your pool filter off, or your pool has reached the desired temperature.

How Solar Pool Heaters Work

Solar pool heaters collect heat from the Sun and make use of that heat to raise the temperature of the water in your swimming pool. It pumps the water from the pool through the pool filter, and then back to the pool. On its journey back to the pool, the water has to pass through several solar collectors. These solar collectors heat the water as it’s passing through.

A solar pool collector can be made of different kinds of materials. What material your solar pool heater should be made of will depend on what kind of climate you have in your area. It will also depend on how you want to use your solar collectors. You could be someone who wants to use the pool when the temperature has gone above freezing temperatures. If this is the case then you’ll need to get a collector system that is glassless.

Unglazed And Glazed Solar Collectors

You can also find unglazed solar collectors. These are made using rubber that is heavy-duty, or sometimes plastic. Where plastic is used, this is first treated with UV light blocking. This helps to increase the longevity of solar panels.

An unglazed solar collector can be less expensive, and that also works great when used to heat indoor pools. Even in the winter months, if your pool is indoors, your solar heater will be able to keep it warm for you. Should you find yourself needing to close down your pool over the winter months, opting for an unglazed solar collector can be more cost-effective for you.

But there are several advantages to opting for glazed systems as well. A glazed collector system is actually more efficient at exchanging heat, and also capturing heat from the Sun, than an unglazed collector system. This means, no matter what the climate in your area is like, your glazed collector system will help keep your pool water warm.

What You Need To Know About The Workings Of Solar Pool Heaters

First, water from the pool is pumped through till it reaches the solar collector. Before reaching the collector, the water needs to go through filters, which remove any foreign debris from the water. When this water reaches the solar collector, it gets warmed by the heat energy from the Sun. Then, the water is returned to your fibreglass pool.

In case you live in an area with warmer weather, you can even use your collector to cool down the water in your pool, during summer. This happens if you allow the water in your pool to circulate at night, through your solar collectors.

Flow control valves are used to divert water towards the solar collector when the temperature of the solar collector is higher than that of the water in the pool. Should the temperature of the solar collector be the same as that of the water in the pool, however, the water will only pass through the solar collector. It won’t get heated and will return to your pool at the same temperature as when it left.

How Can You Select A Solar Water Heater?

It can be expensive to buy a solar water heater. But once you get a good quality solar water heater installed, it can last for many years. Good solar water heaters can efficiently heat the water in your pool for seven years at least.

But before you buy a solar water heater, there are several things that you need to evaluate. These include:

  • Determine how much access to solar energy your home has. How effective your solar pool heater will be will depend on how much sunlight it can catch.
  • What size you want your solar pool heater to be, is the next point to consider. If your pool is larger, and if your swimming seasons are longer, then you may need a bigger solar pool heater. The temperature of the place where you live, as well as your desired pool water temperature, should also be considered.
  • Consider whether your solar collectors will be mounted near your pool, on the roof of your home, or elsewhere. It should have decent exposure to sunlight.
  • Before you buy a solar pool heater, first estimate how much using it will cost compared to other pool heating systems.
  • Look also at the total installation cost as well as maintenance and how many solar panels you’ll be needing, and what thermal performance rating your solar collectors have.
  • There are building code requirements that need to be met before a solar pool heater can be installed. You’ll also need to maintain your solar pool heater properly, to ensure that it works efficiently for at least five to ten years.

Conclusion

Solar pool heaters can help you effectively heat the water in your swimming pool. However, there are several factors you should consider before you get a solar pool heater for your home. From how solar pool heaters work, to whether you should get one or not, this guide can help you learn everything you need to know about solar pool heaters.

Would A Pool, Spa Or Both Be Ideal For Your Backyard?

What do you think about, when considering how you can relax at home? Do you imagine yourself sinking into a spa that is bubbling, or do you see yourself in your pool, floating on a pool lounge? Maybe what you want is both. Whether you want a pool, a spa, or both, you can have it all.

When you talk to your pool installer, they can help you choose which option would be best suited to your backyard. Maybe you live alone, or maybe you have a large family. There are several factors that should go into determining whether you should get a pool, a spa, or both.

What Are The Benefits Of Having A Pool vs A Spa?

Both fibreglass pools, as well as spas, come with benefits of their own. There are several ways they can complement each other as well. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each separately, so you can better decide which would suit your needs.

Pools

There are several pros associated with owning a pool, they include:

  • You’ll have more room to swim in.
  • You can enjoy various activities, such as exercising, in your pool.
  • You’ll be able to cool off on a hot day. And for the colder days, you can always consider a pool heater.

But there are some disadvantages that you should be aware of as well. This includes:

  • A pool will need more space, so it may not be suitable for smaller backyards.
  • Depending on the area you live in, you may not be able to use your pool for a few months each year.

Now let's learn about spas.

Spas

Let’s look at what the advantages of owning a spa are first. They include:

  • A spa can be a cozy and warm space where you can relax.
  • You can enjoy therapeutic benefits as well.
  • You’ll be able to use your spa all around the year, even during the colder months.
  • A spa can fit into yards of all sizes, even smaller yards.

Now, what are the disadvantages you should be aware of if you choose to get a spa? They include:

  • You’ll need to use more chemicals to maintain the water that will be at temperatures that are higher.
  • You’ll have less room overall. A spa can be a great place to relax, but you won’t be able to swim in it.

Depending on what you are looking for, you could view some of the disadvantages as advantages and vice versa. What you want out of your pool should be factored in, when considering what pool design would suit your backyard. Do you want to get lounge chairs installed? Maybe you want a pool that comes with a tanning ledge.

Are you looking forward to testing out your diving skills? In this case, you would need a different kind of New Zealand fibreglass pool – one that comes with a diving board. If you want to get a diving board, then the pool design should adhere to the safety requirements.

When it comes to spas, you’ll often find that they are either round or square in shape. Both can make excellent additions to any backyard, so consider what you’re looking for when choosing what spa design to get.

What Are The Options Available To You When It Comes To Pools And Spas?

Fibreglass pools come pre-manufactured. They are crafted using moulds. The manufacturer is the one that decides what these moulds should look like. But manufacturers today offer many variations when it comes to fibreglass pools. You can also get interesting pool features, like sun shelves or tanning beds, dedicated swim lanes, deep-end benches, and more.

Spas also give you the option to choose from a few add-ons. You could, for example, get a spillover spa. This is a kind of spa where the effect of a waterfall, that is, water pouring into the spa, is emulated. Should you choose to get a spillover spa, then note that you’ll need a pool. A separate setup will be required that pulls water from your pool, which can then flow into the spa.

In a normal spa, on the other hand, water is pulled from the spa itself. This then passes through the heater before it returns again to the spa. You can also consider getting extra jets added, to give yourself the feeling like you’re in a resort. Note also that jets can even be added to inground fibreglass pools.

Should You Get A Pool-Spa Combo?

Pool-spa combos can be perfect for anyone who can’t decide between a pool and a spa. These are pools that already have a spa or a hot tub built into them. When it comes to fibreglass pools, the spa is designed to be inside the pool.

When you get a pool-spa combo, they will be connected to the filtration system together. This means that maintaining both will be easier, than if you got them separately. However, your costs of maintenance will be more than should you have gotten just the fibreglass pool. This is as you’ll need more chemicals to maintain your pool water, and you’ll need more electricity in order to heat it up.

However, having a pool-spa combo is a dream come true for many people. There could be several reasons why you could want a pool-spa combo. Maybe the space in your backyard is limited, and you want to have both a pool and a spa. Maybe you want to be able to enter your spa without leaving your pool. No matter what your reason may be, a pool-spa combo can be a great addition to any home.

Conclusion

Getting just a fibreglass pool could be a great idea, or you could choose to get just a spa as well. Several factors, such as what you’re looking for from your pool or spa, what your budget is and how much space you have in your backyard, will go into deciding whether a pool, a spa or both would be best suited to your backyard.

Would A Pool, Spa Or Both Be Ideal For Your Backyard?

What do you think about, when considering how you can relax at home? Do you imagine yourself sinking into a spa that is bubbling, or do you see yourself in your pool, floating on a pool lounge? Maybe what you want is both. Whether you want a pool, a spa, or both, you can have it all.

When you talk to your pool installer, they can help you choose which option would be best suited to your backyard. Maybe you live alone, or maybe you have a large family. There are several factors that should go into determining whether you should get a pool, a spa, or both.

What Are The Benefits Of Having A Pool vs A Spa?

Both fibreglass pools, as well as spas, come with benefits of their own. There are several ways they can complement each other as well. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each separately, so you can better decide which would suit your needs.

Pools

There are several pros associated with owning a pool, they include:

  • You’ll have more room to swim in.
  • You can enjoy various activities, such as exercising, in your pool.
  • You’ll be able to cool off on a hot day. And for the colder days, you can always consider a pool heater.

But there are some disadvantages that you should be aware of as well. This includes:

  • A pool will need more space, so it may not be suitable for smaller backyards.
  • Depending on the area you live in, you may not be able to use your pool for a few months each year.

Now let's learn about spas.

Spas

Let’s look at what the advantages of owning a spa are first. They include:

  • A spa can be a cozy and warm space where you can relax.
  • You can enjoy therapeutic benefits as well.
  • You’ll be able to use your spa all around the year, even during the colder months.
  • A spa can fit into yards of all sizes, even smaller yards.

Now, what are the disadvantages you should be aware of if you choose to get a spa? They include:

  • You’ll need to use more chemicals to maintain the water that will be at temperatures that are higher.
  • You’ll have less room overall. A spa can be a great place to relax, but you won’t be able to swim in it.

Depending on what you are looking for, you could view some of the disadvantages as advantages and vice versa. What you want out of your pool should be factored in, when considering what pool design would suit your backyard. Do you want to get lounge chairs installed? Maybe you want a pool that comes with a tanning ledge.

Are you looking forward to testing out your diving skills? In this case, you would need a different kind of New Zealand fibreglass pool – one that comes with a diving board. If you want to get a diving board, then the pool design should adhere to the safety requirements.

When it comes to spas, you’ll often find that they are either round or square in shape. Both can make excellent additions to any backyard, so consider what you’re looking for when choosing what spa design to get.

What Are The Options Available To You When It Comes To Pools And Spas?

Fibreglass pools come pre-manufactured. They are crafted using moulds. The manufacturer is the one that decides what these moulds should look like. But manufacturers today offer many variations when it comes to fibreglass pools. You can also get interesting pool features, like sun shelves or tanning beds, dedicated swim lanes, deep-end benches, and more.

Spas also give you the option to choose from a few add-ons. You could, for example, get a spillover spa. This is a kind of spa where the effect of a waterfall, that is, water pouring into the spa, is emulated. Should you choose to get a spillover spa, then note that you’ll need a pool. A separate setup will be required that pulls water from your pool, which can then flow into the spa.

In a normal spa, on the other hand, water is pulled from the spa itself. This then passes through the heater before it returns again to the spa. You can also consider getting extra jets added, to give yourself the feeling like you’re in a resort. Note also that jets can even be added to inground fibreglass pools.

Should You Get A Pool-Spa Combo?

Pool-spa combos can be perfect for anyone who can’t decide between a pool and a spa. These are pools that already have a spa or a hot tub built into them. When it comes to fibreglass pools, the spa is designed to be inside the pool.

When you get a pool-spa combo, they will be connected to the filtration system together. This means that maintaining both will be easier, than if you got them separately. However, your costs of maintenance will be more than should you have gotten just the fibreglass pool. This is as you’ll need more chemicals to maintain your pool water, and you’ll need more electricity in order to heat it up.

However, having a pool-spa combo is a dream come true for many people. There could be several reasons why you could want a pool-spa combo. Maybe the space in your backyard is limited, and you want to have both a pool and a spa. Maybe you want to be able to enter your spa without leaving your pool. No matter what your reason may be, a pool-spa combo can be a great addition to any home.

Conclusion

Getting just a fibreglass pool could be a great idea, or you could choose to get just a spa as well. Several factors, such as what you’re looking for from your pool or spa, what your budget is and how much space you have in your backyard, will go into deciding whether a pool, a spa or both would be best suited to your backyard.

Understanding The Different Parts Of A Swimming Pool

Essential parts of a pool are vital to know about, not just for the maintenance of pools, but also for pool safety considerations. If you are a proud pool owner, you must know what the different parts of a pool are, be able to identify them, and know their function. In case of any troubleshooting, knowing and grasping how pool components work can help you when you call in pool maintenance services. You may not know how to repair pool parts yourself, but you should be aware of their functioning to check the working of your pool generally.

There are different kinds of home swimming pools on the market today, but the crucial parts of any pool remain common to most pools. When you decide to have a swimming pool installed in your backyard, you may also want additional features to complement your pool experience. These are features that you can customise your pool with. The main pool components are those which are necessary for a pool's proper functioning and operation.

The side of the suction

In any pool, there is a side that allows for the water to be sucked in. This is the side that performs the function of the suction of water. The water is sucked into the system and sent directly into the filtration device. Here, the circulation of water occurs.

The skimmers

Home pool tips to maintain your pool will always talk about skimmers. These are on the side where suction occurs, and you may consider them as a part of the filtration mechanism. Built at the side, they consist of buckets that have skimmer baskets inside. They catch large debris like bugs, twigs, leaves, and any other debris too big to fit through your filtration device. The water of the pool travels into the skimmer and begins its path to the filter. While speaking about skimmers, it is important to know about suction lines – these are pipes, made from PVC, that take the water of the pool from the skimmers to the pool pump.

The primary drain

The main or primary drain of your pool is typically located in the lowest surface area of the interior of your pool. Whether you go in for the advanced fibreglass pools or any other, the drains will always be there. You will find the drain at the deep end of your pool. Nonetheless, although this part is known as a drain, it can mislead you as to its actual function. Yes, it is used as a device to drain your pool, but it isn’t often used this way. Normally, the main drain acts like a skimmer does. The water circulation is controlled by the main drain and the skimmers as water is sucked at the top via the skimmers, and at the lower end of the pool by the drain.

Home fibreglass pool tips suggest that you should never try to use the drain as its name suggests and drain a pool by yourself. If you wish to drain your pool at any point in time, you should call in an expert to help you. Advanced pools built in-ground today have two drains. This is purely a protective measure in the event one of the main drains experiences a blockage.

The pool's filtration

In the system of filtration of any fibreglass pools of today (and other pools too), you will find the system composed of the filter of the pool and the pump of the pool. Although these are within the same system, they are entirely individual in their make-up and operation:

The Filter of the Pool – Pools often make use of sanitisers such as chlorine to get rid of bacteria and viruses. Nonetheless, this is only a small part of the job completed. The rest is conducted by the filter of the pool. Tiny particles, debris, and in particular cases, bacteria also, is removed by filters. These may be particles that sanitisers may have failed to remove properly.

The Pump of the Pool – In case you are thinking that the water of the pool simply drops into skimmers, you are wrong. The “impeller”, a part of the pump of any pool, is a spinning device that forces a vacuum, sucking water into the filter of the pool. In all pools, including home swimming pools, the device is operated by a motor. Consequently, any pump of a pool is classified according to its horsepower. The horsepower you need is dependent on your pool’s size. The larger the pool, the bigger your pump will be. This means that the pump has to move higher water volume.

The side of the pressure

The side of your pool that pushes water away from the filter and sends it back inside the pool is called the “pressure side” of the pool. This function makes the circulation of water complete. On this side of fibreglass pools, you will find the following parts:

Return Lines – These perform operations contrary to the lines of suction. They are pipes of PVC that take pool water back from the filter to the jets.

Return Jets – Once the water which has gone through filtration has travelled via return lines, it reaches the return jets, and enters the pool again.

Plainly put, the jets of home swimming pools have dual purposes. They are not only portals from which water is carried back and forth into the pool, these jets also tend to propel water all around the pool. This is a good way for water to reach skimmers, and also to force any debris into the baskets of skimmers.

Kinds of pools

Whatever pool you have chosen to own, whether fibreglass pools or concrete, all vary in shape and size, depending on the pool you have selected to meet your requirements. Basically, all pools have common components, and all serve specific purposes. These are fundamental pool parts that every pool requires for its adequate functioning and maintenance. Other components can be added to pools, whether in-ground or above.

Conclusion

Whatever you own, from a New Zealand fibreglass swimming pool to any device, you should know the ins and outs of working with any equipment. This goes for pools and their parts. Being aware of the parts of a pool gives you an edge and you can be savvy when it comes to pool maintenance and repair. Once you know about the parts of a pool, you are prepared for mishaps as you can easily decipher any pool problems.

Understanding The Different Parts Of A Swimming Pool

Essential parts of a pool are vital to know about, not just for the maintenance of pools, but also for pool safety considerations. If you are a proud pool owner, you must know what the different parts of a pool are, be able to identify them, and know their function. In case of any troubleshooting, knowing and grasping how pool components work can help you when you call in pool maintenance services. You may not know how to repair pool parts yourself, but you should be aware of their functioning to check the working of your pool generally.

There are different kinds of home swimming pools on the market today, but the crucial parts of any pool remain common to most pools. When you decide to have a swimming pool installed in your backyard, you may also want additional features to complement your pool experience. These are features that you can customise your pool with. The main pool components are those which are necessary for a pool's proper functioning and operation.

The side of the suction

In any pool, there is a side that allows for the water to be sucked in. This is the side that performs the function of the suction of water. The water is sucked into the system and sent directly into the filtration device. Here, the circulation of water occurs.

The skimmers

Home pool tips to maintain your pool will always talk about skimmers. These are on the side where suction occurs, and you may consider them as a part of the filtration mechanism. Built at the side, they consist of buckets that have skimmer baskets inside. They catch large debris like bugs, twigs, leaves, and any other debris too big to fit through your filtration device. The water of the pool travels into the skimmer and begins its path to the filter. While speaking about skimmers, it is important to know about suction lines – these are pipes, made from PVC, that take the water of the pool from the skimmers to the pool pump.

The primary drain

The main or primary drain of your pool is typically located in the lowest surface area of the interior of your pool. Whether you go in for the advanced fibreglass pools or any other, the drains will always be there. You will find the drain at the deep end of your pool. Nonetheless, although this part is known as a drain, it can mislead you as to its actual function. Yes, it is used as a device to drain your pool, but it isn’t often used this way. Normally, the main drain acts like a skimmer does. The water circulation is controlled by the main drain and the skimmers as water is sucked at the top via the skimmers, and at the lower end of the pool by the drain.

Home fibreglass pool tips suggest that you should never try to use the drain as its name suggests and drain a pool by yourself. If you wish to drain your pool at any point in time, you should call in an expert to help you. Advanced pools built in-ground today have two drains. This is purely a protective measure in the event one of the main drains experiences a blockage.

The pool's filtration

In the system of filtration of any fibreglass pools of today (and other pools too), you will find the system composed of the filter of the pool and the pump of the pool. Although these are within the same system, they are entirely individual in their make-up and operation:

The Filter of the Pool – Pools often make use of sanitisers such as chlorine to get rid of bacteria and viruses. Nonetheless, this is only a small part of the job completed. The rest is conducted by the filter of the pool. Tiny particles, debris, and in particular cases, bacteria also, is removed by filters. These may be particles that sanitisers may have failed to remove properly.

The Pump of the Pool – In case you are thinking that the water of the pool simply drops into skimmers, you are wrong. The “impeller”, a part of the pump of any pool, is a spinning device that forces a vacuum, sucking water into the filter of the pool. In all pools, including home swimming pools, the device is operated by a motor. Consequently, any pump of a pool is classified according to its horsepower. The horsepower you need is dependent on your pool’s size. The larger the pool, the bigger your pump will be. This means that the pump has to move higher water volume.

The side of the pressure

The side of your pool that pushes water away from the filter and sends it back inside the pool is called the “pressure side” of the pool. This function makes the circulation of water complete. On this side of fibreglass pools, you will find the following parts:

Return Lines – These perform operations contrary to the lines of suction. They are pipes of PVC that take pool water back from the filter to the jets.

Return Jets – Once the water which has gone through filtration has travelled via return lines, it reaches the return jets, and enters the pool again.

Plainly put, the jets of home swimming pools have dual purposes. They are not only portals from which water is carried back and forth into the pool, these jets also tend to propel water all around the pool. This is a good way for water to reach skimmers, and also to force any debris into the baskets of skimmers.

Kinds of pools

Whatever pool you have chosen to own, whether fibreglass pools or concrete, all vary in shape and size, depending on the pool you have selected to meet your requirements. Basically, all pools have common components, and all serve specific purposes. These are fundamental pool parts that every pool requires for its adequate functioning and maintenance. Other components can be added to pools, whether in-ground or above.

Conclusion

Whatever you own, from a New Zealand fibreglass swimming pool to any device, you should know the ins and outs of working with any equipment. This goes for pools and their parts. Being aware of the parts of a pool gives you an edge and you can be savvy when it comes to pool maintenance and repair. Once you know about the parts of a pool, you are prepared for mishaps as you can easily decipher any pool problems.

Everything You Need To Know About Infinity Edge Pools

A Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand Article

Pool fans all over the globe cannot stop raving about fibreglass pools and the joy they bring. If you have installed a fibreglass pool in your backyard, you are a lucky person who knows all the advantages these pools can offer you, from low maintenance to subtle beauty. Fibreglass pools come in various sizes, shapes, styles and even colours now, so you get what you want. In fact, you can match your unique backyard aura to fit any fibreglass pool.

Since you don't become the owner of a swimming pool every day, it is crucial that you decide on the best-suited pool when you consider a pool at all. This is not a challenge anymore, as the perfect home swimming pool you get today caters to every distinct customer. A popular choice these days is the infinity edge pool. Look no further to find out all about these gems of water holes that can add flair and elegance to any residence.

A vanishing pool

Aptly called “vanishing pools”, infinity edge pools are those that appear not to have a border. This means that, while you can see where a pool normally ends, an infinity pool has an overflow of water, giving the viewer the illusion of a never-ending water flow. The pool effectively creates a kind of oneness between your backyard and the water. This is also called “a pool with no edge”, or one with a “wet edge”. Fibreglass pools which are infinity pools seem to have no wall at the end of the pool, and the water seamlessly appears to cascade. What you get is a view that is largely unrestricted while you are swimming.

You typically see these pools on hotel rooftops, and they spell luxury by this kind of association. Among the best home pool tips, experts will tell you to buy an infinity pool that adds class to any backyard and increases your residential value by leaps and bounds. If you think that these pools are only for the famous and the wealthy, you couldn’t be further from the truth. Innovations in pool designs with fibreglass pools let you have the infinity pool of your dreams!

Here are some tips to correctly install a diving board!

How the Vanishing Pool functions

The latest technology that drives infinity pools is not a challenge to understand. In a regular pool, the walls of the pool tend to be higher than the level of the water inside the pool. In the case of fibreglass pools with edges of the infinity style, there is always one wall of the pool (or two) that is built at the identical height as the level of water. The magic of the pool is mainly because these pool walls are built in such a way that they slope in a direction that is away with regard to the pool. Consequently, the water at the edge of these pools is prone to fall in a downward way, much like a waterfall does.

In-home swimming pools of this kind, the water doesn’t just fall to the ground by the side of the pool. It is deftly collected in a tank. This is located below the edge of the infinity point and is totally invisible when attempting to view it from inside the pool. In a kind of recycling process, the water is then pushed back from the tank into the main area of the pool. The pool remains full as a result. This is probably a pool that makes the most efficient use of water, without any wastage to speak of.

Keep safe around the pool with these tips!

Where to build an Infinity Pool

Pools with a “negative edge” can be built in a limited space. Limited in the sense of area and location, as these pools have to be constructed completely in the ground with a gentle and natural slope. In case there is no slope present as a natural formation, fibreglass pools of this kind will have to be built on slopes that are man-made. As a result of this, pools with a negative edge are perfect for construction on sloping surfaces where straight construction will not suffice. The primary reason for the existence of the slope is to facilitate the mechanism of the tank that collects the water falling over the pool’s edge.

See the weekly maintenance guide for your home pool!

The sloping surface

A swimming pool is considerably heavy. You may wonder why this is even an issue as it rests on the ground or in it. Nonetheless, home pool tips include certain aspects of pool construction when you have to construct a heavy pool on a sloping surface area. When an artificial slope must be built, it has to be solid enough to take the weight of a swimming pool. Until very late in the day, only concrete pools could be built on a slope. Still, with the advent of the advanced fibreglass pools on the market, people questioned whether these could be constructed on a slope as infinity pools.

With all the pros that fibreglass pools have to offer, a solution to create fibreglass pools as infinity pools had to emerge. The solution? New technology in which the pool shell has a “ribbed” surface below its shell has come about. This makes the pool robust enough to be partially above the ground and partly below it. The strength of such a fibreglass pool is comparable to that of a concrete pool. Fibreglass is also more durable than concrete, so this is a good option all around.

View our article on the types of pool covers to keep your pool clean and safe!

Other aspects of Infinity Pools

In case you are already the proud owner of a fibreglass pool, you may think of turning it into an infinity pool. Nonetheless, this would pose a huge challenge due to construction aspects and technical structural problems. So, if you wish to own an infinity pool, think twice before you put in any pool in your backyard. Nonetheless, if you like the design of an already-existing fibreglass pool, it’s possible to transform it into an infinity pool. Fibreglass pools can undergo some structural modifications to their edges and infinity pools can be fabricated out of these.

Conclusion

Infinity pools may be costly as they are unique, and the cost largely depends on the pool’s unique installation. As a result of this, pools have varied costs and each pool has to be distinctly accounted for. In case there is a lot of structural work involved, your infinity pool may be expensive to fit in. Nonetheless, this is an investment that will serve you well for years to come.

Tips To Safely And Correctly Install A Diving Board

Diving boards, now, are not an accessory you can see only in public pools. Anyone can add it to their existing or new backyard swimming pool, provided all safety factors are thoroughly considered. Both kids and adults can have unlimited fun with diving boards. The important thing to remember is that they need to be placed properly. Safely and correctly installing diving boards will ensure that people can enjoy the diving experience without any worries.

Considerations for the installation of diving boards

The safety considerations for installing diving boards typically depend on the local authorities. So, before you decide to install one, it is necessary to contact them to know the specifications in your locality. You should also apply for a permit and make sure that your municipality has not placed any bans on domestic diving boards. Do thorough research on building laws and enlist the help of a building inspector before you make a huge monetary investment.

Check out our tips for perfect nighttime swimming!

Depth considerations for the installation of diving boards

Typically, your swimming pool should have a depth of between 7.5 and 9 feet to have a comfortable diving experience. Several municipalities have regulations specifying the minimum depth the pools should have before you can consider installing diving boards. Manufacturers also give recommendations to pool owners on the minimum depth requirements. It is also not necessary to have this recommended depth throughout the entire swimming pool. The hard and fast rule concerning the depth involves the region situated directly below your diving board. This region is generally referred to as the deep end or the hopper.

View how a retaining wall  can be protective barrier for your pool!

Size considerations for the installation of diving boards

Along with depth consideration, the size of the pool is also considered before installing diving boards. Generally speaking, the diving board can only be installed in a swimming pool that has specifications of 16′ x 32′ or larger. If your pool is smaller than the required specification, you may not be able to install a board. If you have more space in your backyard and want a diving board, consider expanding the pool.

Expanding the pool is also where the space at the shallow end is considerably less than at the deep end. This is an important consideration, especially if you have weak swimmers or young kids in your family. You should take all these things into account when choosing the size of your pool.

You can also add pool stairs with a sun ledge or tanning ledge. Kids can use this as the pool’s entrance and exit. An appropriate length of the shallow region is also necessary to fulfil the slope criteria required for pools with diving boards.

Here’s why you should take care of fibreglass pool stains quickly!

Other requirements

There are some other aspects you have to consider before installing diving boards.

  • Above-ground pools are not suitable for diving boards since they cannot be constructed deep enough.
  • The shape of the pool does not play an important role in whether you can install diving boards or not. It is enough if the pool has enough depth and a proper slope.
  • Never move diving boards from your old pool to the new one without proper consideration.

Check out the five reasons why you need a small pool!

Installing a diving board

After you have decided that you want to install a diving board and have obtained a permit for it, the next step is the installation process. Installing the board is a complicated process during which you should adhere to all the safety regulations recommended by authorities and manufacturers. These regulations are recommended to avoid serious accidents or worse, even death. There are specifications related to minimum depths and distances that should be followed at all costs.

You can purchase a diving board that suits your needs from the numerous choices available on the market. After you have purchased the board, carefully read the installation instructions that come with the board. Attempting to install a diving board all by yourself is a dangerous affair, especially for inexperienced people. This is because any minute mistake can give rise to dangerous accidents. It is advisable to take the help of a skilled and experienced professional to install the board to have a safe diving experience.

Keep safe around the pool with these tips!

Base installation

Place the diving board’s base at the midsection of your deck. You should make sure that this is the deeper side of your pool. Before deciding on the position, make sure that all minimum distance requirements are fulfilled. After deciding on the mounting site, make sure you will be installing it straight onto the concrete. If your deck has tiles near the region you are planning on installing the board, remove them with a chisel. Pour new solid concrete that has a minimum compressive strength of 3500 PSI. This point should be as sturdy as possible. It bears the majority of the weight and stress when you use the board.

Here are some tips for buying a winter cover for your pool!

Set the bolts

Use a 606/608 bolt jig for setting bolts on the board. The bolt caps generally come in yellow and red. The typical “RED” tipped bolts are placed on the board in the position nearest to the swimming pool. Before pouring in the concrete, make sure the jig is properly aligned because it could have moved during transportation. The cement thickness should be around eight inches. 1.5 inches of the bolt should be exposed when you are pouring the concrete. Let the concrete cure in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. After it has dried, remove any extra concrete and flatten the surface with a chisel. This will bring the base level with the surface. Once this is finished, you can take off the coloured bolt caps.

After the diving board is placed and fastened, check the level or slope of the board with the deck. The height gap between the end of the deck and the board’s tip should not be more than 6 inches.

Check out our weekly maintenance guide!

To Conclude

Installing a diving board in your home pool is exciting. But it is also necessary to make the installation perfect to avoid accidents and fatalities in the future. It is advisable to take the help of a professional agency if you have decided to install a board in your home pool. This will ensure that the divers are safe and everyone can enjoy themselves stress-free.

Tips For The Perfect Nighttime Swimming

Swimming is an exercise that is beneficial irrespective of the time you do it. It is a low-impact exercise that gets your whole body moving and keeps you fit. A lot of people prefer to swim rather than spend an hour or two sweating in a gym. But many may not find time to go for an early morning swim or even during the day owing to the fast-paced life in today's world. Some may even prefer swimming at night to enjoy the beautiful starry skies while swimming. Whatever the reason for the choice of swimming at night, it is important to follow some tips to make your nighttime swim sessions safe and enjoyable.

Ways to make your nighttime swimming a perfect experience

Nighttime swimming in itself is an enjoyable experience with the beautiful stars, gentle breeze, privacy, and serene quietness. It is an excellent way to unwind after a stressful day. But you can use some simple tricks to make your nighttime swimming a bit safer and more pleasurable for you and your family. This will also come in handy when you want to organise an evening poolside party.

Lighting

This is the most important thing, be it for nighttime swimming or for a pool party. Good and proper lighting enhances the visibility of swimmers and reduces the chances of untoward accidents. This is especially true if you have kids or pets who might want to join you during your nighttime swim sessions. Place an adequate amount of lighting around your swimming pool so that people can see the pool edges, the decorations you have placed on the pool deck, or even other swimmers.

See how to keep safe around the pool with these tips!

It is advisable to invest in underwater LED lighting so that you will be able to see the bottom of the pool at all times. This will help you in the case of accidents during nighttime swimming. Installing spotlights in the backyard and other locations close to the swimming pool is also a good idea. This will not only benefit the swimmers during nighttime swimming, but it will also help those sitting near the pool keep an eye on the swimmers. This is crucial to enjoying a stress-free swim session.

Keep the pool and pool area warm

Your pool may not feel chilly every night. But it is a good idea to invest in a water heater to help you during the cold nights. Keeping yourself immersed in chilly water at night for a long time can be harmful to your health. It can cause issues like muscle cramps, particularly during the winter. Install a good water heater to keep your pool water warm.

It is also advisable to keep your poolside warm along with your swimming pool. Install a fireplace or a fire pit where you can warm up after a swim on chilly nights. This can also serve as a place for guests to gather and warm up during nighttime pool parties. A fireplace will also increase the overall charm of your pool area.

Check out the five reasons why you need a small pool!

Install pool fence

A pool fence is necessary if you are a regular nighttime swimmer. It will keep both animals and intruders out so that you can peacefully swim at night. Additionally, fencing will keep children from going into the pool area without adult supervision during the night. Many pool owners fear that a fence will ruin the overall look or aesthetic of their pool area. But now, with a variety of pool fences available, you can choose the best one that matches the overall look of your pool. Along with the pool fence, you can also invest in a pool alarm that will alert you in case there is an intrusion in your pool area.

Here is our guide on weekly maintenance for your fibreglass pool!

Drive the bugs out

Bugs can spoil a perfect evening you might have planned by your pool. Luckily, there are numerous approaches to avoid them without using dangerous chemicals. For example, you can experiment with things like mosquito dunks, tiki torches, citronella candles, and pest control lights. There are also some other techniques you can use to keep the bugs at bay. Some of them include:

  • Use a ceiling fan or portable fans
  • Clean your gutters regularly
  • Plant marigolds
  • Keep mint teabags on and around the deck
  • Build a fire

Play some music

Playing some soothing music is a good way to make your nighttime swim a relaxing and meditative experience. Play some light pop or jazz to have a soothing effect on your mind. Remember to keep the volume low so that you do not disturb your neighbours who are sleeping.

Here’s what you need to know about pool renovation!

Do pool landscaping

During nighttime swimming, it is ideal to have a bit of privacy, so you should think carefully before choosing the landscaping elements and fencing. People are usually busy throughout the day. So they may not pay much attention to your swimming pool during the daytime. However, during the night, you most definitely do not want to annoy your neighbours or feel as though you are in their direct line of sight. In addition to your regular fencing, plants, trees, and shrubs can be used to make your pool area more private and tranquil. These bushes do a great job of reducing noise and obstructing the view of your swimming pool. Evergreen shrubs and trees are the best choices as they are robust and full. But it is better to keep away from fruit-bearing plants as they can make the pool area a mess.

These are the types of pool covers to consider for your pool!

Avoid swimming sleepy

It is important to remember that you should avoid going for a swim during the night if you are feeling sleepy and tired. When your body is worn out, some muscles might not function properly. Additionally, being drowsy makes it harder for you to think critically, which increases your chances of drowning. You should always let someone know when you are going for a nighttime swim. This will ensure that you will get timely help when needed.

If you’re wondering how long it will take for your fibreglass pool to be installed, see our article on it here!

Wrapping Up

When done right, swimming during the night can be a remarkable and relaxing experience. Many people shy away from swimming at night due to safety concerns. By following proper precautions and using some simple tips, nighttime swimming can be made enjoyable and safe too.

How A Retaining Wall Can Be A Protective Barrier For Your Pool

Are you wondering if your fibreglass pool needs a retaining wall? A big challenge that pool installers face when they come to install pools in people's homes is the inaccurate grade of their yard. It's rare to walk into a backyard and find that the ground is level.

When the ground isn’t level, the pool installer may have to add gravel or other kinds of backfilling in order to get by without needing to add expensive walls. But if you do get a retaining wall, that is, the kind of wall that surrounds your pool, your backyard will look more aesthetic. A retaining wall can really add to the beauty of your backyard.

When Do You Need a Retaining Wall for Your Pool?

Before you add a retaining wall to your backyard, you’ll need to determine whether you really need one first. There are pool owners who don’t even know what retaining walls are, much less if they need them. This can, however, spell a disaster for a homeowner should they want to add a retaining wall later. There will be no space to divert water that needs to be diverted.

As a result, rainwater could come down the slope of the retaining wall when it rains. All the dirt and debris present in the rainwater will also be carried down into your fibreglass pool.

If your backyard has a slope that rainwater can use to get down to a spot that is level, where you’re most likely to install your pool, you can get a French drain. This drain will catch the rainwater before it reaches your patio. But should you find yourself cutting into the grade of your backyard in order to install your pool, then this solution may not work for you.

Here’s how to keep safe around the pool!

What You Should Know About Retaining Walls for Swimming Pools?

If you want to add a retaining wall around your fibreglass pool, then consider integrating it into your home’s general aesthetic. You can have a patio built that’s elevated, which always looks appealing. You could either surround your patio with the retaining wall, or the fibreglass pool itself. You can even add cascades into it as well.

Consider ensuring that your wall can be between 20 and 24 inches. This allows you to use the wall as a sitting wall. Note that all retaining walls aren’t designed to keep the water from entering your pool deck. There are times when retaining walls are constructed in order to keep the pool in the proper place. In such cases, if you make use of the right backfill as wellness compaction, you may not need to add a retaining wall at all.

Should gravel be required at the time you’re having the retaining wall installed, then the cost of that gravel may be more expensive than the cost of building the wall. There should be space in your backyard that lends itself to grading, where the area isn’t too steep. In order to determine what the slope is, this depends on the amount of dirt that is left behind from excavating the pool. Some homeowners may need extra dirt in order for the slope to be feathered out.

Check out why you should take care of fibreglass pool stains quickly!

Why Does Your Pool Need a Retaining Wall?

People whose backyards are graded and levelled will not usually need to add a retaining wall around their pool. However, even if you don’t need it, you could still choose to have one built. You don’t always need to add a retaining wall in order to endure your pool can pass the building codes of your area.

Should your yard be on a slope, on the other hand, a retaining wall may be necessary. A retaining wall for a pool can prevent dirt, debris, soil, and other contaminants from running down a slope and into your fibreglass pool or the patio. Should your backyard have a high slope, then it’s at risk of faster erosion with time. A retaining wall can act as a durable and protective barrier that keeps soil as well as rocks from entering your patio or the pool. This helps prevent serious damage.

In homes where the soil is loose or sandy, a retaining wall will be needed to ensure the pool stays in place. In places where the humidity levels are high and there’s also a lot of rainfall, the soil could become vulnerable to erosion.

Before you decide whether you should get a retaining wall or not, first talk to your pool installer. They’ll be able to inspect your backyard’s grading in order to determine whether the soil is stable or not. After they’ve done a thorough inspection, they can let you know whether you need a retaining wall or not.

Designing and Building a Retaining Wall

When you know that your fibreglass pool needs a retaining wall, it’s time to think about its design and construction. Contractors don’t always build retaining was exactly the same. But most will use a concrete slab or a footer in order to start the project.

After the concrete has been poured, steel rebar will be run through its length, in order to add reinforcement. Bricks and even cinder blocks can be stacked, in order to form the wall. Then, they’ll be filled with mortar as well as rebar which will tie them back to the footer.

Paver boards can be added to the top of the retaining wall. It will need to be secured with mortar. You can even add unique features to your pool wall, which make the area look interesting and also add to the property value of your home.

Here is a weekly maintenance guide for home pools!

Conclusion

A retaining wall can be essential for some pools, but not essential for others. Even if your fibreglass pool doesn’t need a retaining wall, you can still choose to add one for aesthetic reasons. Use this guide to learn what a retaining wall is, and determine whether you should get one or not. Retaining walls can help you protect your pool while also increasing the property value of your home.

How To Keep Safe Around The Pool

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the ways you can keep your family members safe around the pool so everyone has a fun time.

Getting a brand new swimming pool can be very exciting. You and your family can now join the envy that are pool owners. Everyone will be itching to get into the pool and enjoy the water and have some fun, however it is imperative that the pool is safe for the family. If the pool is not safe, the pool may not be deemed safe to use and until the problem is fixed, the pool will not be able to be used.

Fencing

All pools in Australia must have the right kind of fencing for the swimming pool to be deemed safe to use. If there are children in the family, the fence needs to be at least double their height so they can’t access the pool without adult supervision. There are plenty of beautiful fencing options available to choose from. While most people will go for looks over practicality, it is good to note that there are different fencing laws and regulations that vary by state. Doing adequate research on these regulations is important to avoid costly mistakes and also to avoid breaking the law and deeming your pool unsafe to use.

Check out how long it takes to install a fibreglass pool!

Having a fence can also keep unwanted visitors out of the family pool. If the family goes on holiday, wild animals may take to swimming in the pool or even the next door neighbour’s kids. This is when having an appropriate fence can be extremely useful.

Pool Toys

A lot of pool toys are built to float in the pool. Aside from their obvious purpose – to splash around and have fun with – they can be excellent flotation devices in the event of an emergency. Keeping the pool toys locked away outside of pool usage is also a good practice. This is to prevent children from potentially tripping over the pool toys and to avoid them from getting injured or worse.

There are many pool toys available to purchase. An even better option would be to purchase a safety ring like the ones that lifesavers use, and keep it strapped to the pool fence or close by so it can be thrown out if there is an emergency.

Pool covers are also an excellent way to let unwanted guests or your children know that the pool is not open. Here are the types of pool covers to consider to keep your pool clean and safe!

Pool Rules

Unlike beaches or at supervised pools, there aren’t a specific set of rules for the swimmers to follow. Most of it comes down to personal choice and parental supervision. Having a set of rules that everyone follows ensures that everyone stays safe. Some rules can include:

– No running around the pool

– Do not swim without adult supervision

– No food or drinks

– No roughhousing

– Do not dive into the shallow end

– Do not push others into the pool

Store Chemicals Out Of Reach

Many pools require chemicals to function properly, and also so they are safe to swim in. A lot of these chemicals, like chlorine, are poisonous to ingest and can harm young swimmers. Through storing chemicals out of reach and even in locked cupboards that only the adults can access, this drastically brings the chances of that happening down.

While dangerous to ingest, do not be fooled, as many of these chemicals keep your pool safe to swim in. Making sure you maintain your pool chemicals is vital, as too much chlorine can cause stinging eyes a number of other health problems.

(If you aren’t sure whether your backyard is suited to a backyard pool, check out our handy guide here!)

Keep your pool chemicals out of reach, and you will ensure that no accidents happen.

Invest In A Pool Alarm

Pool alarms allow you to be notified whenever someone enters the pool, or when large movement has been detected in the water. This means that you can be alerted to whenever someone has fallen in or if someone is using your pool without permission.

There are a range of pool alarms that you can invest in. Many affordable ones are available on the market and with the right research, you will be able to find a reputable one. Pool alarms mean that you can sleep extra easy at night and rest assured during the day that no one is using your pool.

With summer coming, it’s vital to make sure your pool is summer ready! View our guide here!

Security Cameras

A tried and true option. Installing security cameras around the pool area can deter unwanted visitors, and means that you can keep an eye on your children while they swim. It is important to note that direct adult supervision is safer and better, compared to using just security cameras.

Sometimes its not feasible for an adult to be home, especially if they work full time. Your child may want to cool off after school or take a quick dip. Knowing that you are aware of what’s happening can ease your mind about them using the pool without an adult there to watch. With the leaps and bounds in technology these days, security cameras can be connected to your phone so you are always in the loop of what’s happening in your backyard pool.

Make sure you maintain your pool well with our weekly maintenance guide! See the article here!

Conclusion

Swimming pools can be sources of joy and fun for the whole family. You can finally enjoy having a BBQ by a pool or inviting your friends and family over to catch up on the weekend. After all, you’ve just invested a lot of money into the pool.

However, investing in safety options early can prevent accidents in your pool. Some kids will find the rules to be overbearing and annoying but if you explain what the consequences are if the rules are not followed, they may understand them better. If in doubt about creating these rules, making sure that nobody goes into the pool unless an adult is there is a simple and easy solution.

For final thoughts, just remember that you can’t put a price tag on safety and sometimes it’s better to invest money into it than have something unexpected happen and not be able to undo it.

Here at Barrier Reef Pools NZ, we have experts who can advise you on the best options for safety as well as help you in getting a start on installing a swimming pool into your backyard. Get in contact with us today! Our team would be more than happy to help.

Five Reasons Why You Need A Small Pool

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the five reasons why you should consider purchasing a small pool. Not just because of size constraints in your backyard, but because of other reasons as well.

In pictures of gorgeous houses and in the backyards of your neighbours, you may be used to seeing a large family pool. So many TV shows and movies stylise having huge swimming pools and it can cause dreaming pool owners to give up on their vision of one day owning a pool if their backyard is small. However, that is not always the case and generally, a lot of pool companies enjoy advertising their small pool range because they want everyone to have the best chance at being able to own a pool.

Reason 1: Less Maintenance

In your research for potentially purchasing a pool, you would have come across many articles about how pools can be a lot of maintenance. And if you want the maintenance to be lessened, automating your pool is the best option (but it can be expensive).

A small pool means that the maintenance for the pool will be a lot less than a typically sized pool. You can rest assured that all you have to do is make sure the water pH level is stable and the water is safe to swim in and you can hop in and have a dip.
A small pool means that the maintenance for the pool will be a lot less than a typically sized pool. You can rest assured that all you have to do is make sure the water pH level is stable and the water is safe to swim in and you can hop in and have a dip.

Here is our weekly maintenance guide for home pools!

Reason 2: Cost

It’s no secret that larger pools require more money to be invested into installing and purchasing it. Bigger pools obviously need more water and filling it up can knock a hole in your water bill for a while. Smaller pools are cheaper to purchase and install as less work needs to go into it. When pools are installed, the ground needs to be dug out and that can take time and the work of an excavator (which costs money). Smaller pools can save you the heartache of spending a lot of money on your first pool, especially if the backyard space isn’t there.
It’s no secret that larger pools require more money to be invested into installing and purchasing it. Bigger pools obviously need more water and filling it up can knock a hole in your water bill for a while. Smaller pools are cheaper to purchase and install as less work needs to go into it. When pools are installed, the ground needs to be dug out and that can take time and the work of an excavator (which costs money). Smaller pools can save you the heartache of spending a lot of money on your first pool, especially if the backyard space isn’t there.

Here’s how to prep your pool for summer!

Reason 3: Backyard Space

Property size has downsized in recent years, meaning that the dream of owning a pool may have diminished long with it. However, like we stated above, many pool companies now stock smaller pools to cater to this new territory. Small pools mean that you can own a pool, even though your backyard space doesn’t have the space needed for a larger one.
Property size has downsized in recent years, meaning that the dream of owning a pool may have diminished long with it. However, like we stated above, many pool companies now stock smaller pools to cater to this new territory. Small pools mean that you can own a pool, even though your backyard space doesn’t have the space needed for a larger one.

Small backyards can snugly fit a small pool, without taking away from the overall space. Some pool owners even prefer purchasing a smaller pool even though they have space for a larger pool because they still want heaps of backyard space.

Reason 4: Increased Property Value

You may think that just because you want to purchase a small pool that the value of the house won’t increase as much. You would be right in assuming that. Smaller pools don’t hold as much value as larger pools do when it comes to increasing property value. However, this doesn’t mean that they don’t hold any value at all. A pool is still a pool and regardless of its size, it does increase the value of your property. Some people don’t feel the need for a large pool and would much prefer a smaller pool to fit their needs better.
You may think that just because you want to purchase a small pool that the value of the house won’t increase as much. You would be right in assuming that. Smaller pools don’t hold as much value as larger pools do when it comes to increasing property value. However, this doesn’t mean that they don’t hold any value at all. A pool is still a pool and regardless of its size, it does increase the value of your property. Some people don’t feel the need for a large pool and would much prefer a smaller pool to fit their needs better.

With the property market rising, now is the time to invest in installing a small pool to future proof your property if you ever want to sell it. A small pool allows potential house buyers to have the best of both worlds, compared to the ones who have to choose between a large family pool or no pool at all.

Check out the different types of pool covers to consider to keep your home pool clean and safe!

Reason 5: It’s Fun!

Swimming pools can be heaps of fun for you and the family. Smaller pools also mean that you can enjoy sitting in your pool for a cooldown. You can utilise the space for entertaining or for a focal point to build your backyard features around (though we personally think that your pool will be the main feature!).

Imagine coming home after a long day at work and you know you have a relaxing pool waiting for you to sink into and let the day’s stress wash away. Plus, there are plenty of pool toys and accessories out in the market that allow you to personalise your pool area.

A small swimming pool allows you to achieve the dream of being a pool owner, while cutting costs on maintenance and installation costs. Plus, if you choose the right kind of pool, you can still swim in it like one of the larger pools.

To Conclude:

We think that owning a small pool has many advantages. These reasons only scratch the surface of why you should consider a small pool and we encourage you to do as much research as you can before making a decision. Just like larger pools, you are still investing a large amount of money into installing the pool and purchasing it and once the hole is dug, there’s no going back. Unless you want to turn your hole in the ground into a skateboard bowl.

Small pools have all the fun of a big pool, with probably less than half the costs needed to run it. It is the perfect addition to your backyard space, even if its a small one. Pools are incredibly good investments and they can add value to your property, and small pools are no exception.

Knowing all the facts before purchasing a pool can save you pricey mistakes, plus it can make the process all the more smoother. Here at Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand, we have a qualified team of pool experts who can help you decide between our range of pool sizes to best get your fit for your backyard. Contact us today so we can help you make the right decision on what pool to purchase!

Tips For Buying A Winter Cover For Your Swimming Pool

When the seasons start to feel less warm, you may be wondering if your swimming pool needs a winter cover. The simple answer is yes, but if you want to decide which type of cover will work best for your pool and budget, there are some things you need to know.

Today, there is no shortage of pool cover options available. Depending on your need, style, and budget, there are so many choices that you might feel overwhelmed. This guide will help you understand what type of winter cover is best for your situation.

What Type of Pool Cover Should You Buy?

There are several types of pool covers available. The most common ones are:

Mesh Winter Pool Covers

A mesh winter pool cover is a type of pool cover that allows air to enter and exit the swimming pool in order to keep water from freezing. These are commonly used on above-ground pools but can also be installed on in-ground pools if they have been built with an area below the ground level where snow or ice can collect during colder months.

There are a lot of advantages to using a mesh winter pool cover. One of these is its ability to keep water warm during cold temperatures by allowing enough oxygen into your swimming pool to enter. This way, the pool water won’t freeze up too quickly, and you will spend less time cleaning up the pool.

Solid Winter Pool Covers

Solid winter pool covers are made of a single piece of material. They're typically heavier and more expensive than mesh covers, but they also have their own set of advantages. Solid covers are more durable than mesh ones. While both types can be destroyed by wind or rain, solid pools require little maintenance once installed (and usually don't need to be cleaned out every year). This means that you won't need to replace them as often as you would with a mesh cover.
Solid winter pool covers are made of a single piece of material. They're typically heavier and more expensive than mesh covers, but they also have their own set of advantages. Solid covers are more durable than mesh ones. While both types can be destroyed by wind or rain, solid pools require little maintenance once installed (and usually don't need to be cleaned out every year). This means that you won't need to replace them as often as you would with a mesh cover.

Safety Pool Covers

Safety pool covers are made of solid material and are heavy-duty. They're designed to provide protection from the elements, including wind and snow, as well as from falling objects like leaves or debris from above. Safety covers will not only keep your family safe but will also help prevent damage to your pool when it comes time for spring cleaning!
Safety pool covers are made of solid material and are heavy-duty. They're designed to provide protection from the elements, including wind and snow, as well as from falling objects like leaves or debris from above. Safety covers will not only keep your family safe but will also help prevent damage to your pool when it comes time for spring cleaning!

How to find the right sized swimming pool cover

It’s important to buy the right-sized swimming pool cover to close and properly cover your pool. Before you buy a cover, make sure that you measure your swimming pool dimensions correctly. In the case of an in-ground pool, the pool cover should be at least 3 inches more in length and width from the pool’s edge. Buying a pool cover for a standard-sized pool is easy and less expensive. However, in the case of freeform pool design, you will have to get a customized cover.

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of pool heaters!

What Grade of Pool Cover to Buy?

The grade of pool cover you choose depends on the size of your swimming pool, as well as its type and location. For example, a small backyard pool will require a lighter-weight vinyl liner, while an Olympic-sized centre-pivot that needs to be covered year-round requires something much more durable like steel or aluminium.

Check out whether or not a swimming pool is a good investment!

While there are many factors that go into determining what kind of material is best for your situation and budget, here are some general guidelines:

Vinyl liners are also great because they can easily be painted over with pretty colours without worrying about damaging other parts inside during installation or cleaning out the debris afterwards!

If you want something quick and easy, that'll keep water out but won't cost too much money, then consider using mesh, as it's both affordable and attractive looking when installed correctly.

Add-ons you have to try

There are many ways to protect an above-ground winter pool cover, but some of the most common include:

Using a pool cover pump: This is one of the best ways to make sure your swimming pool cover doesn’t have any water on it. It’s also important to note that not all pumps are created equal, so it’s important to select one that has been tested and approved by independent professionals who know what they’re talking about!

Keeping your pool area clean during the winter months is vitally important for multiple reasons. See the details here!

Using an automatic pool cover reel: When you use an automatic reel cover, you can easily cover and uncover your swimming pool. It is hands-free, self-deploying, and self-retraction. It also doesn’t require any manual cranking or pulling. This can save both time and money because it does not require any maintenance at all except simply re-stowing after use!

The cheapest pool cover is not always the best option!

A winter cover is a very important part of your swimming pool. It protects your pool from debris, dirt and other contaminants that can damage your swimming pool.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a cover for your pool – size, cost, maintenance requirements, and so on. You should also make sure that you choose an appropriate model for your needs. For example, if you live in an area where there is snowfall every year, then it may be necessary to invest in a heavy-duty model with snow protection features like flaps at each corner (or even around the perimeter). Cost is an important factor, but it shouldn’t be put over quality and maintenance requirements. Remember that cheapest isn’t always the best option.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many different types of winter covers available today. But the most important thing is to choose one that fits your needs and budget. If you want an affordable option, then a mesh cover might be best for you. However, if you want something more secure than those inexpensive ones, then consider buying a solid or safety pool cover instead. These options will keep your pool safe during cold months while also keeping it clean and providing extra insulation. If you are still unsure about which pool cover is best for you, you should talk to a professional.

Weekly Maintenance Guide For Home Pools

Swimming pools are a point of pride for many homeowners. It aids in maintaining a healthy fitness regimen despite busy schedules and enhances the charm of your home during parties and get-togethers. It also provides a good place for you to relax, unwind, and have a fun weekend.

After installing a swimming pool, a really important element that one has to keep in mind is its maintenance. Proper maintenance is necessary for a swimming pool to avoid issues like algal build-up, contaminated water, and damaged structures. A responsible swimming pool owner should try to maintain and clean their swimming pool on a weekly basis. There are eight tips that you can follow to keep your swimming pool beautiful and clean.

Steps to maintain your pool weekly

It takes a lot of commitment and effort to keep your swimming pool clean, but with just a bit of knowledge, it will be easier to maintain the pool all year. The important steps to complete while cleaning and maintaining your pool weekly include:

Skim off dirt, debris, and leaves

It is important to clean the dirt, debris and leaves to keep the pool sparkling and to avoid health and hygiene-related issues. Skimming can be done daily, but it is an absolute must during your weekly cleaning sessions. Use a leaf skimmer with a long handle to remove any floating material from the swimming pool’s surface, including leaves, pollen clumps, insects, and other objects. If any debris reaches the bottom of the swimming pool, it will be more challenging to remove it, and it may even leave stains. Removing debris at least on a weekly basis will prevent this from happening.

(Is a swimming pool a good investment? Find out here!)

If the pool is located near big trees, it is advisable to trim these trees to limit the number of leaves, branches, and other debris falling into the pool. It only takes a few minutes to skim the pool’s surface. But, it keeps your pool water crystal clear, sparkly and beautiful. Also, if the dirt, debris, and leaves are skimmed off weekly, they will not have a chance to clog the pool filtration system.

Clean the pool deck

Keeping the pool water free from debris and leaves is not enough to keep the pool clean. You should also regularly clean your pool deck. Your pool deck will also have fallen leaves or branches on it that can reach your pool when there is wind. Sometimes, climbing into the pool water from a dirty deck can make the water dirty. Improper maintenance of the pool deck can also lead to the breakdown of pool deck materials, causing unwanted accidents.

Sweep your pool deck at least weekly or twice a week to clear off all the fallen debris. For concrete and wood decks, use a diluted vinegar solution or oxygenated bleach to get rid of moss, algae, and similar growth. If the deck is really dirty, you can use dish soap for cleaning. You can also use pressure washing to clean the deck.

Check out whether fibreglass pools can be heated!

Brush your pool walls

The walls of the swimming pool and accessories like slides and ladders can get covered in algae and bits of dirt. Every week, brush the fixtures and walls of your swimming pool to remove debris and stop the growth of algae. With a brush, clean the debris that has accumulated at the bottom and sides of the pool. Remember to brush the slides, the ladder, and any other accessories you may have in your pool. Push sediment towards the main drain to make the vacuuming easier. Also, remember to brush those sections of the pool that cannot be easily reached, like corners, waterlines, and crevices.

Find out whether fibreglass pools can be saltwater or not here!

Vacuum your pool

If any debris has floated to the pool’s bottom, it can be vacuumed out after you have brushed the walls. You can vacuum your pool either manually or by using an automatic cleaner. Automatic cleaners aid in water circulation in addition to sucking up debris.

Clean skimmer and filter

You should empty your skimmer once a week, or more frequently if necessary. Emptying the skimmer will allow it to function more effectively, capturing the bulk of debris that enters your pool. You should also frequently check the water level in your pool. Debris won’t be efficiently gathered if the level is higher than halfway up the skimmer.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filter cleaning and maintenance. Clean out any dirt that may have accumulated in your pool filter every week.

Keep the pump running

Running the pool pump 24/7 is good for your swimming pool. It will make sure that the pool water is adequately filtered and that the chemicals operate efficiently. If you cannot operate your pump every day for 24 hours, ensure that it runs for at least eight hours.

Why is pool warranty important? Check it out here!

Keep your pool chemicals optimal

Test the pool water at least weekly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for chemical treatments. You can add chemicals like sanitisers and disinfectants to the pool daily to prevent the growth of bacteria and algae. Remember to check the chlorine and pH levels of your pool weekly. Regular shock treatments are also required to clear the water of any algae, germs, debris, organic matter, and other contaminants. Do the shock treatments according to the manufacturer’s instructions. After shocking your pool, you can also apply an algaecide. Add additional chemicals based on your manufacturer’s instructions to remove scale and rust.

Can pools have waterslides? See the details here!

Backwashing

Backwash your pool filter weekly if you regularly use your pool. You can also backwash once the filter gauge shows 8–10 psi above average. It is always better to backwash less.

Conclusion

A swimming pool in the backyard is a dream come true for many homeowners. It not only adds beauty to the backyard but also increases the value of your property. By having a proper weekly maintenance schedule for your pool, you can keep it clean and beautiful. Maintaining the pool regularly will not only make it beautiful but prevent health issues and increase the lifespan of the swimming pool. Also, remember to seek professional help at least once a year to check the overall state of the pool.

Prepping Your Fibreglass Pool For Summer

If you've not used your pool at all during winter, then you'll need to prepare it before you can start using it again in summer. Let's find out all about preparing your fibreglass pool for summer!

Summer is on the way, which means that the season you’re most likely to make use of your pool is coming. People enjoy socialising, throwing parties, or even relaxing around their fibreglass pools during the summer months. You could be thinking about throwing a barbecue in your backyard, where your friends and family can even enjoy taking a dip in the pool water.

During the winter months, you may have avoided using your pool altogether. It isn’t uncommon for pool owners to leave their fibreglass pools covered through the winter months. Some people, like those who have pool heaters, could continue to use their pool through the winter months.

1. Don't empty out the pool water

You could be thinking that the first thing you should do is to empty out the water in the fibreglass pool. This water has been stagnant in your pool through winter, so it must not be safe for swimming in. While this idea seems good, it can lead to you needing a replacement job done for your fibreglass pool.

This is as emptying the pool water out all at once can affect your pool’s structural integrity. If this happens, then this could lead to your pool popping out of place. Then, you’ll need to call the pool installer again and get them to refit your fibreglass pool. This is why the water in the pool shouldn’t be emptied out at once.

2. Cleaning the pool

You’ll also need to clean any dirt, debris or foreign contaminants out of your pool. If you haven’t run your pool’s filter or circulation system through the winter months, then you’ll first need to check on those. Clean your pool filter, and ensure that there isn’t any debris stuck in it. Your pool can have different kinds of filters, and you’ll need to know how to clean out your particular filter. Usually, you’ll need to backwash the filter in order to clean it. You’ll also need to clean the skimmer basket.

You will also need to manually get rid of any dirt, debris, leaves, branches and other foreign contaminants that may have made their way into your pool. You will need a net that can help you clean these foreign contaminants out. After you’ve carefully drained out the water in your pool, you’ll need to brush the sides of the pool, as well as the bottom.

This is as dirt and sludge could have accumulated in these areas over winter. This is why you’ll need to carefully scrub your fibreglass pool clean, in order to ensure that you can then use it.

Check out whether or not your backyard is suited for a swimming pool!

3. Checking the pool pump

It’s important to check to ensure that all the components of your fibreglass pool are in working order. And the most important of these is the pool pump. Before using the pool, ensure that all its components are working fine. At this point, you could also consider upgrading your pool system, if you haven’t already. You may also have found some inconsistencies while you were working, that could signify that repair is needed.

If you have any questions regarding your pool pump, then you’ll need to call your pool technician. In case you don’t know how to check your pool pump, you can also call a pool technician to come and inspect it for you. There are many plumbing decisions that are quite affordable as well. A plumbing technician can help you ensure that you don’t go over your budget when fixing your pool pump.

Concrete pools can take months to install – but fibreglass pools can take a lot less time. See just how much!

4. Adding pool chemicals

You should never use your fibreglass pool after it’s been stagnant for a long period, without checking the pool water chemistry first. This is as stagnant water is the perfect breeding ground for algae as well as bacteria. Go to your nearest pool store and buy pool water testing kits.

Check to see whether the pH level of your pool is within the right range or not. If there are algal blooms in your pool, then you may need to call in a professional pool cleaner. Algal blooms are often indicated by the cloudy colour of the pool water. There are specific pool chemicals you can buy that help remove algal blooms. You can even think about getting rid of the algae yourself, but make sure that you do a thorough job so that the algae doesn’t come back.

Eventually, when the pool is clean, you’ll want to fill your pool with fresh water. Now, you’ll need to test the pH level of your water again, to ensure that the pool water is balanced. If it isn’t, then you’ll need to add the right pool chemicals, in order to ensure that your fibreglass pool is ready for use.

5. Checking for leaks and cracks

At least once every year, you should consider checking your fibreglass pool to see if there are any cracks in it. You may not notice any cracks that are visible, but it’s important to monitor your pool nonetheless. When you’re cleaning your fibreglass pool and preparing it for summer, it could be the perfect time to check for leaks and cracks.

There could also be times when you notice that the water level of your pool is decreasing, even when there aren’t any cracks that are visible. This most often indicates a leak and a professional pool installer will need to look for it. Detecting leaks in fibreglass pools can be seen as a science that is exact, which is why you need the help of professionals who are trained. Professionals will also have the right tools with them, that will help them ensure that they can detect and fix any leaks in your fibreglass pool.

Swimming pools can be good investments, see why here!

Conclusion

You’ll need to get your fibreglass pool summer ready before you can start using it. From cleaning the pool out to checking the water balance of the pool, there are five key things that you need to do before you start using your pool. Use this guide to find out what they are.

What You Need to Know About Pool Renovation

Sooner or later, you might want to change the size, shape, or depth of your pool. Maybe you have kids now and want a shallow area or your kids have grown up and you want to get rid of the shallow area. Whatever the reason, pool renovation is not something to be taken lightly. In this article, we will go through some of the important things you should know about pool renovation.

Types of pool renovations

Depending on your requirements, you will have different types of pool renovation. Here are some of the common examples:

  • Changing the shape of the pool
  • Adding different tiles on the pool floor
  • Creating a spa
  • Adding a water or fire feature
  • Adding sun shelves
  • Adding a diving board or a water slide
  • Installing lights
  • Updating the landscaping
  • Updating the pool deck

Did you know pools can be heated? Check it out!

Why you shouldn’t be DIYing pool renovation?

You might think that you can DIY the pool renovation, but you might be overestimating your skills. Admitting that you need the help of professionals can be difficult. So, before you go and dismantle your pool, ask yourself if you really can do it. Only if you are 100% sure that you can do it easily and efficiently, then you should go ahead. Remember that YouTube tutorials and online guides might not be enough to get your pool renovated on your own. It might be a bad idea and cost you more in the long run. If you are confident in your abilities, make sure that you know everything you have to and have everything you need.

Time taken to renovate the pool

As it is with any form of construction, it will take you some time to renovate your pool, depending on factors like the scope of the project. One of the biggest considerations is the size of your pool. A smaller pool will take you less time than a big pool. Then, you have to consider the renovation project itself. For instance, if you are only installing a ladder in your pool, the whole thing will be wrapped up in a day. However, if you are changing your pool’s shape to a point that you get a new pool at the end, the whole process can take weeks or even months. Here is a breakdown:

  • 1-8 weeks for selecting the pool design and getting the required permits
  • 1 week for excavating the site
  • 1-2 weeks for routing the electrical and plumbing and laying the steel
  • 1-3 weeks for plastering
  • 1-4 weeks for adding custom features for your deck or landscaping

There are a lot of factors that can have an impact on the duration of your pool renovation project, such as:

1. Availability of the contractor

This is a crucial factor to consider while determining the time it will take to finish your pool renovation. If you are doing an extensive renovation, you will need the help of specialists like concreters, pavers, electricians, fencers, etc. Their availability will affect the duration of your project.

2. Time of the year

If you are renovating your pool during the summer season, you might have to wait for some time. On the other hand, the winter season isn’t considered ideal for construction and the whole process might be slowed down because of it.

3. Approval from the local authorities

Depending on where you live, you will need different types of permits before you can start the construction in your backyard. It can either prolong or shorter the duration of your project renovation. Also, going from one local authority to another for the permits can be quite a headache.

Unsure if a swimming pool is a good investment? Here’s our take on it!

The cost of pool renovation

Before you start the pool renovation process, you must know how much it is going to cost you. As the renovation progresses, there might be additional costs, so having a budget is crucial to get things done. Look up the general costs of the services that contractors in your area charge. It will help you get a rough estimate. You can call them directly, tell them your requirements, and get a quote.

In case you have decided to handle the pool renovation yourself, you should measure your pool and get some estimates of how much the materials will cost you. It will also help you figure out the time it will take you to finish the pool renovation. Remember that your time isn’t free. Compare the cost of the time you will be spending on the project with the cost of hiring professional contractors.

After making a decision between doing it yourself and getting professional help, you should add some extra money for unforeseeable events. It is possible that your pool renovation process won’t go smoothly and would be derailed by problems. You don’t want to get halfway done, only to realize that you have spent all the allocated money. That way, you will end up with a pool that you can’t use during the summer. Having an idea of the cost of the pool renovation project is crucial.

Bit chilly in the area? See the advantages and disadvantages of pool heaters!

Taking care of the pool after the renovation

Once your pool has been renovated, your pool’s maintenance guidelines might change. Your pool will need some aftercare as well. For example, if you install new equipment, you must know how to properly maintain it. The effort you put into it now will ensure that it remains functional and in good condition for years to come. If you have done some cosmetic changes to your pool, learn the best practices to keep it clean.

Wrapping up

Renovating your pool can be great. However, if you don’t concern yourself with the upkeep, the changes won’t last for long. If you want to ensure that your pool remains in great shape, you have to follow the guidelines provided by the specialists. You can take the help of professional pool cleaning services who can help you with the maintenance.

Once you have considered everything mentioned above, you can start renovating your pool. This is a difficult task that requires a lot of research and planning. But, if you do it the right way, the rewards will be worth it.

Types Of Pool Covers To Consider To Keep Your Home Pool Clean & Safe

Let’s talk pool covers. It’s a pool accessory that’s absolutely integral to your pool’s cleanliness, safety and energy efficiency. Yet, people hardly talk about it. In this article, we explore what different types of pool covers are available for you to choose from and how to select the one that’s perfect for your pool. So, let’s get started.

Type 1: Solid pool covers

Solid pool covers are the most conventional of all pool cover types that you’d find on the market. It’s typically made out of polyvinyl sheets and is thick enough to keep debris from falling into the pool, without tearing. These pool covers are a budget-friendly option because they don’t have any additional bells and whistles. They’re simple to manually pull over your pool and they are pretty durable, lasting for a few years.

The biggest advantage of a solid pool cover is that it protects your pool from all types of debris – no matter how large or small. It’s also a great way to reduce your pool heating costs because the cover can insulate the water pretty well. Overall, the solid pool cover is opaque and thick, making it perfect for UV protection. This in turn keeps your pool tiles from discolouring. The vinyl sheets can last up to 10-12 years if cared for well.

The disadvantage of solid pool covers is that if it rains, the water pools right on top of the cover, necessitating pool cover cleaning and drying. Plus, if something sharp or heavy were to fall on the cover, it’s likely the fabric will tear easily.

Check out whether fibreglass pools can be heated or not!

Type 2: Winter pool covers

Winter pool covers are a type of solid pool cover that is used specifically for winter. These pool covers are typically made out of tarpaulin sheets – making them much more heavy-duty than polyvinyl solid covers.

The advantage of a winter pool cover is that it’s inexpensive (and easy to replace once it’s worn out). It’s also long-lasting, capable of giving up to 5 years of pool coverage if you take care of it. Plus, you can always use a winter pool cover for your indoor pools, since they warm your water enough to prevent installing a pool heating system. The thickness and solid coverage of the winter pool cover also reduce the risk of algal growth and UV radiation.

The major disadvantage here is that a 5 years lifespan is actually pretty short for a pool cover. Also, if you have an outdoor pool, the winter cover may have a very limited usage to only the winter months. You may need to invest in a second pool cover for the summer months. Just like vinyl solid pool covers, the trap winter cover can’t bear much debris weight and is susceptible to tearing.

Here’s why it’s important to keep your pool area clean during the winter months!

Type 3: Mesh pool covers

Mesh pool covers are made of polypropylene fabric that’s tightly woven, but with pockets of space to create a mesh-like texture. They are designed to stay taut over the water, instead of resting/lying on the surface.

Mesh pool covers are definitely more long-lasting than solid vinyl covers.

...they have a lifetime of up to 15 years!

They also keep large debris at bay by collecting the debris in the mesh spaces/pockets. The tensile strength of this cover is very high, making it perfectly safe to use if your pool is located under a large tree or is prone to getting heavy debris.

The space in the mesh cover allows rainwater, snow melt and dew through to the pool, which is helpful in two ways. For one, this ensures that your pool remains naturally topped up with water regularly, reducing the need to order extra gallons. Secondly, the mesh cover is perfect for maintaining the chemical profile of natural pond-style pools, by allowing nutrients in rainwater to mix with the pool water.

Of course, this very advantage can become problematic if you don’t want a pool that is similar to a natural water body. The mesh cover can mess up the quality of the water, necessitating regular water treatments. Secondly, it doesn’t protect your pool’s tiles from UV radiation, resulting in tile discolouration. Also, mesh pool covers can be more expensive to use because they need special accessories to be installed to put up the mesh in the first place.

Fibreglass vs Concrete pools, see the details here!

Type 4: Hybrid pool covers

So far, we’ve looked at solid covers (and by extension winter covers) and mesh covers. Now, you may be having a hard time trying to decide which of the two types of pool covers to get. If you can’t decide or find that you want one of each, we’d recommend taking a look at hybrid pool covers.

These hybrid pool covers basically function like a solid pool cover when you need to prevent debris from falling into the pool. But the fabric also has a mesh-like texture that lets precipitation into the pool, like a mesh pool cover. It does offer some degree of protection from UV rays and does prevent algal growth. It’s also a great all-season pool cover because of the unique way it is constructed. Plus, these pool covers have a lifespan of 15-16 years, making them worth spending on.

Of course, the fact that it has so many amazing features means that hybrid pool covers are actually very expensive. These are the most expensive types of pool covers, in fact. Plus, you’ll need to spend extra on putting in the required installation set-up to hold up your hybrid pool cover.

Get your pool summer ready with these tips!

Type 5: Automatic pool covers

Till now, all the pool covers we discussed were manually operated. But the final pool cover on our list is the automatic pool cover. This is a fully automated, state-of-the-art pool cover that can be both controlled by a remote and pre-programmed to close at a particular time. The functionality of automated pool covers depends on the brand you choose and how tech-heavy it is.

These automatic pool covers are great if you don’t want the hassle of removing and putting back the pool cover every day. Plus, you can make the equipment cover only part of the pool, allowing you to use the other, open section.

Another advantage of automatic pool covers is that they can be designed to mimic the decking and tiling of your pool, so the aesthetics of the pool area are maintained. But despite all these advantages, there are some problems with automatic pool covers.

(Check out what you need to know about pool renovation!)

For one, you need to call qualified pool cover installers to set up your pool cover. If something is faulty with the cover, there’s no way to manually pull it over your pool. The cost of installation is very high – even higher than hybrid pool covers. Add to this cost of repairs and maintenance, and you have yourself a very expensive pool cover at home.

Finally, if you ever decide to get rid of this pool cover and replace it with a manual cover, you’ll need to get your installer to come in and disassemble both the automatic pool cover and any other additional installations they had set up around your deck.

To Conclude - How to choose the ideal pool cover for you?

Ultimately, the choice of a pool cover boils down to the following questions –

  • What is the goal with your pool cover –reducing electricity consumption, pool safety, better water sanitation, reducing additional water fill-ups, less exertion when using the cover, or all of them?
  • How much is your budget for a pool cover?
  • How much effort do you want to exert in using your pool cover every day?
  • Are you willing to spend on extra accessories and construction to support your pool cover?
  • Do you plan on changing your pool covers in the future?

Our team of experienced pool installers can advise you on the type of pool cover that best fits your family, lifestyle and budget. Reach out to us today to discuss your pool installation and pool maintenance needs. We look forward to making your pool experience safe and comfortable.

How Long Does It Take To Install A Fibreglass Pool?

One of the most common questions we get asked here at Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand is "how long does it take to install a fibreglass pool?" Unlike some other pool types, fibreglass pools are premade and extremely straightforward to install. If all goes to plan, you could have a fibreglass pool installed in as little as a week however, sometimes unexpected delays occur and this can extend the timeframe slightly. Here are some things that potentially delay your fibreglass pool installation.

Contributing factors that may delay your pool installation:

The season you choose to have your pool installed

Some times of the year are busier than others. For example, summertime is always the busiest season to install a pool. The weather warms up and everyone wants a pool for swimming in during the silly season. This time of year is when we receive the largest influx of enquiries, and it’s the busiest time of year for pool installations as well. Unless you have booked reasonably early, it’s unlikely that you will get your pool installed at the exact time you may have hoped. If you would like your pool installed in the summertime or in the lead-up to the hotter months, we recommend contacting your preferred pool builder a year in advance at the minimum.

In the lead-up to Christmas, there is usually a surge in construction-related projects, everyone wants to get their building work done before they finish up for the year. If you want to wait the least time possible, it’s a good idea to look at a winter installation. This is when people least likely want a pool installation as they typically won’t be using it as much during this time. Installing a pool at this time does have its advantages. The main one is that it will be entirely finished as soon as the warmer weather starts.

Check out what customers have to say about us!

Local council approval delays

Almost all new pools in New Zealand require a building consent. In most instances, an application will need to be lodged and approved before any work can commence. Your pool builder will typically take care of the permit approvals for you or at the very least, provide you with detailed information on how to navigate through the process, including what you’ll need and what is involved.

The time it takes to receive approval back can vary. Again, in summer, council authorities are likely to receive a high volume of applications so it may take longer than normal. While your pool builder should submit your application early, delays are uncontrollable and sometimes they do occur regardless of how early the paperwork has been sent off ahead of time. If this does happen, unfortunately, your pool builder cannot legally start your pool installation until they have received this back.

Curious to see our pool production process? Check it out here!

How easily your backyard can be accessed and the condition or terrain of the ground that the pool is to be installed on

The simplest and quickest fibreglass pool installations are usually ones with easy access and a flat block. When there is good access to the pool site, the machinery can get straight into the location where the pool is to go. When there is not a lot of room to access the backyard, machinery may need to be lifted into the backyard. When the block is flat, this can minimise the amount of groundwork that is needed to even out the site to make way for the pool. If your ground has a lot of rock in it, this can consume more time and a more robust type of machinery may be needed to dig it up.

Other contractors working on your installation

Contrary to popular belief, there are several other contractors involved when installing a swimming pool. Some of these include fencers, electricians, and concreters. In an ideal world, the contractors would be on-site at the exact time when required however, this doesn’t always go to plan. If a contractor is needed and they are unavailable, this can push back the completion date. The good news is that our team here at Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand work closely with all our contractors, and we try our best to ensure that we align everything so there are no delays.

Rain

There’s not a great deal you can do when rain has set in for a prolonged period of time, and this can disrupt the pool finishing timeline.

Here are some common questions about fibreglass pool installations

How secure is a fibreglass pool once installed?

Fibreglass pools are structurally very strong and hard-wearing. Once installed by a reputable and licenced pool builder, the chances of your pool moving or slipping even millimetres is very rare. You should know that quality pool builders will have no hesitation in offering an extended warranty with their pools. All Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand fibreglass pools have a lifetime structural guarantee.

What's involved when installing a fibreglass pool?

Our fibreglass pools are constructed in a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant, and when you choose to get a pool installed with us, you simply pick one from our extensive collection, and it gets delivered to site rather than built on site. The best location will be chosen for your pool, and then the ground will be inspected and measured. The ground will be excavated to make way for the pool shell.

A strong foundation is laid as the base for the pool to sit on. The shell will be lifted into position using a crane, and it will be meticulously measured and levelled to ensure it is exactly where it needs to be. Backfill is placed around the pool and then compacted. Timber boxing will be built around the pool and concrete will be poured. The boxing is typically lower than the pool so that when your pavers are laid they are flush to the pool. Plumbing and electrical will be fitted, and then your pool can be filled with water.

The process of installing a fibreglass pool is simple, and you could be swimming much sooner than you think. If you have any questions about our pool installations that we did not cover in this post, feel free to reach out to our friendly team at Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand.

Is A Swimming Pool A Good Investment?

Swimming pools can be expensive, and if you are weighing up whether to get one, you may be curious to know if they are a good investment or not. In this post, we'll share our perspective on swimming pools and the reasons why we think they are a smart choice for every home.

When the climate is warm here in New Zealand, spending time outside enjoying the weather is a favourite pastime for many. A swimming pool makes the perfect addition to any backyard and complements our cruisy, outdoor-loving way of life.

Swimming pools can not only overhaul the appeal of your home but your lifestyle in more ways than one. Some people consider a pool a good investment because they add value to a property and typically much more than the pool costs, others consider a pool a good investment as it enhances their free time and the enjoyability that they get out of being at their home. Either way, a swimming pool offers undeniable benefits.

Let’s dive a little deeper into the reasons why a pool is a good investment

Adding value to your home

It is no secret that properties with pools are more expensive than ones without, although the same cannot be said if the home features an old and outdated pool that requires significant work or looks less than appealing. Kiwis love their pools so if you ever decide to sell your home down the track and you’ve made the decision to put in a pool, you can have peace of mind knowing that it will make your home more attractive to potential buyers and add value to the sale price. Fibreglass pools are a great choice for several reasons, they are more straightforward to install, they are easier to clean and maintain, they don’t rip clothing or cause scratches, and they are sleek and contemporary in design.

Know all the facts with our post on fibreglass vs concrete pools!

Can help you to keep healthy and active

One of the great things about swimming is you don’t have to do an intense set of laps to burn calories. Even paddling in the pool can help you to move your body and keep active. If you do want to turn up the intensity, you can do so at your own pace whenever you choose. Regular exercise can boost cardiovascular health and overall muscle growth. With a growing number of people leading sedentary lifestyles and more and more children resorting to online apps and video games, having a pool in the backyard is an investment for your and your family’s health and wellbeing.

Worried about not being able to use your pool in the cooler months? Check out our post on heated pools!

Takes your hosting to the next level

There’s no denying that attending get-togethers or events with a pool are more fun than those without. Having a pool enables you to centre your hosting around it, and it gives your guests something interactive to do while socialising rather than just sitting around. Whether you like to host Christmas, birthdays, or parties at your place, a swimming pool can take them to the next level when it comes to fun!

Can save you time

Have you sat in traffic painfully trying to go to the beach for the day? You’re not alone. Sometimes the hassle of having to pack half your house and sit in traffic makes going for a swim a major effort and not worth it. With a swimming pool, weekend wasting becomes a thing of the past. You can swim whenever your heart desires, night, day and 365 days a year without even having to leave your home. Additionally, you won’t have to share your swimming space with others and you can swim in complete privacy.

Draws the entire family outside

The benefits of being outside are almost endless. Some of these include boosting mood and lowering blood pressure. A swimming pool draws the whole family outside for some fresh air and quality time together. Rather than sitting inside watching TV or on devices, you spend the afternoon bonding, laughing, and getting in some exercise. If you’re like most, you’ll have fond memories of swimming in a pool and having your own pool enables you to make new lifelong memories with those you care about most.

Check out out post on whether or not your backyard is suited for a swimming pool!

Unwind on demand

Life gets crazy at times, and having an outlet to unwind is essential for maintaining good health and mental wellbeing. A swimming pool can be used for more than just swimming and having fun. You can use your pool to sit in and relax after a big day. Being submerged in water has many advantages, such as lowering stress and reducing inflammation. Even if you don’t want to swim in the pool, sitting by it can offer therapeutic benefits and it makes a great place to sit and relax with a cup of coffee or a book. Being able to do this from your home ensures that you have an accessible way to relax on demand, and the more time you are making for yourself, the better you are likely to feel in general.

Makes your home look better

A swimming pool, when done well, will dramatically enhance the aesthetics of your backyard. It can give your backyard the wow factor and creates a point of interest. With some clever paving, landscaping and perhaps some pool lighting, you’ve got yourself a showstopping feature in the backyard. You can design your pool to tie in with your home to create cohesion between the spaces as well as ensure it suits your lifestyle to a tee.

The verdict

Whether you want to add a pool to your home for financial gain or to improve your lifestyle, they are a fantastic investment! Having a pool of your own can transform the appeal and function of your home and enhance how you spend your free time. What better way to spend the weekend than with those you care about, with a BBQ or meal and a dip in the pool. Does it get much better? We think not! If you are looking for a stunning fibreglass pool for your home, look no further than the team here at Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand. We fit and install world-class fibreglass pools and spas and we are confident we have something that you will find a worthwhile investment for your home. Contact us today to find out more.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Pool Heaters

Winter can be one of the main reasons why people choose not to install a swimming pool. After all, why buy one when you can only use it for two and a half seasons? Nobody enjoys getting into a cold swimming pool for the first time. Imagine it during the coldest season of the year. There are a few ways to continue using your pool during winter, and here at Barrier Reef Pools NZ, we’ve got you covered. Pool heaters are a sure fire way to make sure that your pool stays in use, year round. Swimming in warm water sounds a lot better than in its icy counterpart, doesn’t it?

Looking for pool tips and tricks to take your fibreglass pool to the next level? Check out our blog for everything you need to know!

Benefits Of Using A Pool Heater

Continued Usage: In the colder months, it can be difficult to motivate yourself or other members of the family to continue using the pool. With pool maintenance taking a decent sized chunk out of your bill, it can often make you question installing a swimming pool in the first place. A pool heater takes that out of the equation, allowing year round usage. You can keep the pool cold in the warmer months and warm in the cooler months.

Recreational: Through using a pool heater, you and the family can still have a splashing good time. Without the added displeasure of freezing cold temperatures, you can still have fun playing pool games and float on a bed of warm water.

Fitness: Without a pool heater, especially in cooler temperatures, the pool has difficulty regulating the temperature. This can add pointless stress onto your body, potentially causing health problems. For the more serious swimmers out there, having a pool that has a regulated temperature means that you can continue your training year round, without worrying about the aforementioned issues.

There are different types of pool heaters. Solar, Electric, and Gas. Each of these has their pros and cons, as well as various price tags in accordance to their assemblies.

SOLAR HEATING

Solar Heating works by utilising the sun to power up the heater for free, repeating the process of filtering the pool water through using the solar panels.

This method of heating means that for it to work at its most efficiently, you would need to be positioned in a place where it is often sunny. This is because the sun must hit the solar panels in order for them to transfer that heat into the pool water through a unique filtration system.

Even if the house isn’t in the best area for the sun to reach the pool, the solar panels could still be positioned to maximise where the sun does shine over.

Pros

Free energy from the sun

Environmentally friendly

Low running costs

Cons

Needs the sun to heat up the pool

Weather dependent

Sometimes shade affected

ELECTRIC HEATING

Electric Heating works through pumping the pool water through a heating tank and pumping it back out at a higher temperature. Because the water is constantly being rotated through the different hot and cold channels, the pool remains warm.

Electric heaters are commonly known for being more eco-friendly and more efficient, however unlike the gas heating, it doesn’t heat up as quickly due to the heat being available at that exact moment, compared to electric heaters where it needs time to heat up.

Pros

Reusing energy from atmosphere

Very eco-friendly

Cons

Not very economical to run

Slow to heat up entire pool

GAS HEATING

Gas Heating is a relatively cheaper expense, in comparison to the previous two heating options. This method also heats up a lot faster than the previous two options, eliminating the long wait time for the pool to warm. This method uses natural gas or propane as fuel.

In colder temperatures, choosing this option may be a better investment. Though the carbon emissions for gas is relatively high, it is more efficient to heat up your pool.

Pros

Heats up pool very quickly

No shortage of natural gases

Cheap to purchase and install

Cons

Not as energy efficient compared to the other heating options

Very durable but tend to wear out faster than other heating choices

SOLAR COVERS

Another way to keep your pool warm in the winter season is to invest in a solar cover. Solar covers are placed over the pool and as the sun heats the water through the cover, the heat becomes trapped underneath, warming the water.

Solar pool covers are a lot cheaper than the other heating options as all it needs is to be in a location where the sun shines regularly. However, this is not a primary factor in why choosing solar covers is a positive thing.

Aside from heating up the pool, it can also save you money on your electricity bill. As the sun is not yet owned by any major corporations, it remains a free expense. 

Pros

You save water as there is less water evaporation due to the cover stretching out the entirety of the pool

Fewer chemicals used

Eco friendly as the pool heater will be used less (or not at all)

Cons

Initial costs may outweigh the usefulness in comparison to a pool heater

The solar cover does not last forever and will have to be replaced in order for it to retain its effectiveness.

Heat Pump

Heat pumps are another great option for a pool heating system. They are energy efficient (perhaps more so than the electric heating option) and have fairly low running costs in comparison to the previous options. 

Think of them as a fridge that works in reverse. Instead of pumping cold air into a closed space, they suck in warm air from the surrounding atmosphere and filter it out to the pool through the use of a piping system.

They are easy to install, as opposed to the other heating options. The only cons of this are its expensive price and how the heating isn’t as fast as the gas heaters.

Pros

Very energy efficient to use

Environmentally friendly

Low installation costs

Cons

Initial purchase price is costly

Not as fast as gas heaters

Final Thoughts

Each pool is different and it really depends on the size of the pool and the location of the pool and house. All factors that contribute to choosing the best possible choice for a pool heater. See our full pool range here!

Your budget will also be a factor in choosing a pool heater, and its important to note that choosing a low priced heating system may contribute to the overall quality. In this case, it may be better to choose quality over a low cost heating system.

The bottom line is that heating your pool is a great option, so you can use your pool year round. There are many positives to investing in a pool heater, and through some extensive research into those options, it can be a worthwhile investment.

Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand is all about bringing your dream fibreglass pool to life. While we don’t sell pool heaters, we are experienced in the pool industry and would love to help you find a suitable pool heater with our partners. Give us a call today so our friendly team can help out! 

Can A Fibreglass Pool Have Waterslides?

If the main swimmers of your swimming pool are going to be children, adding a water slide to your outdoor entertaining area makes a lot of sense. Not only as a fun activity for your children and their friends, water activities like waterslides, will burn off all of that extra energy kids seem to have!

At Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand we don’t sell water slides. However, we can give you some more information about how in most cases, you will be able to install a water slide in your backyard. There are a few things to consider regarding the size of your block, the backyard layout and shape, as well as how much space you have around your pool. Plus, you will need to confirm access and location for the water supply of the slide. 

The benefits of having a slide are not only advantageous for the kids, but there are also reasons why the adults benefit too! Obviously, having a waterslide is fun! Adding a waterslide can take your outdoor entertaining area to the next level. Did you know that the sound of running water is great for mediative purposes? The water running from your slide can create a tranquil sound, especially if it is not being used by noisy kids! Just relaxing and listening to the sound of the running water can boost your mood. The water running off your waterslide creates a tranquil sound, even more so when it is not being used by noisy kids! Another benefit of adding the right water slide for your pool, can change the overall appearance of your outdoor area, and make it look more aesthetically pleasing. 

For more advice on Fibreglass Pools, check out our blogs!

What you need to consider: 

Council approval and insurance: 

You will need to check with the local council before you toy with the idea of buying a slide to get installed. You will need to make sure you are not breaching any regulations or safety codes. Plus, it is important to let your insurance company know you have installed a slide as it could affect your cover and premiums. 

Design: 

There are many types of freestanding water slides which are suitable to be installed on your fibreglass pool. Water slides which are sold for domestic use will come in many designs and a variety of styles. You might like to choose a slide with a soft curve, or one which is full of twists and turns might be more your style! You could even go for one that is completely straight and let the kids get up to super speed for a big splash in the pool! Once you have chosen the style of

water slide you want you then will have to decide if you want it to turn right or left when entering the water! 

Materials: 

The most common water slides on the market are made from Polyethylene or acrylic. These are great choices because of their longevity and strength. The slide which you purchase must also be UV resistant. Otherwise, your slide can fade very quickly from being exposed to the sun. This will make it look old and can even present safety risks if the material cracks or breaks when someone is using it. Please be aware that if your water slide is made of metal, it will get scorching hot in the sun and can cause serious burns, even if water has been continually flowing down it. To make it simple- do not choose a metal slide! 

Colour, features and specifications: 

The most popular colour choice of waterslides is blue and tan. When you select the colour of your water slide, you need to find something that is going to match with the colour of your pool as well as your home. More important than colour, make sure you look at the safety features that the water slide you have chosen has. The slide should have a non-slip ladder, with strong handrails, and be constructed with salt and rust resistant materials. 

Water supply: 

A water slide can have its own water supply, by taking water from your pool to create a continuous stream of water from the top of the waterslide. It’s the same sort of experience as you would get from a slide at a real water park! A slide with its own water supply, is more fun as well as safer too. It’s safer because your legs won’t stick to the hot and dry slide on the way down. You can avoid the hassle of trying to achieve the same effect by having to use a garden hose at the top of the slide that will just get in the way. A water slide with its own water supply also saves on water as it uses water from your pool rather than the tap. You have control to adjust the water flow from a slow trickle to a rapid stream. 

Professional advice: 

As always, before purchasing your slide, it is recommended to speak to a professional first. A pool builder can assess your swimming pool and the surrounding area to offer advice on which style and design of waterslide would work best. If you have the space, it is clever to place your water slide in a position where it faces your entertainment area and house. Then you can keep an eye out more easily when the children are using it. 

Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand is all about creating stunning and luxurious fibreglass pools, while water slides are not something we install, we do, however, have extensive experience in the pool industry and our friendly team can offer helpful advice regarding waterslides. Give us a call today, and our friendly team at Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand are more than happy to help!

Why It's Important to Keep Your Pool Area Clean During the Winter Months 

The swimming pool can be your family's favourite place to hang out during the summer months. You're likely to find people splashing water, enjoying themselves, and having fun during the sunny days of summer. But this can change drastically as soon as the winter months appear. 

If winter has set in, there’s nothing to worry about since summer will arrive soon enough. But before summer comes back, you need to ensure that the fibreglass pool is clean, healthy, and ready for your family members to use. This is why it’s necessary to clean your pool from time to time, even when it’s offseason. Your pool will still need attention from you. 

Check out our blog for more tips and tricks!

Why Maintaining Your Pool Is Important 

If you neglect your swimming pool during the winter months, then you’ll find that this is a mistake that turns out to be costly later on. When you keep your fibreglass pool water clean, you ensure that: 

  • The water health of the pool is maintained 

  • Health-related issues from swimming in the water can be avoided 

  • Expensive repairs can be avoided 

  • Pool toys can be safely stored 

  • The pool can be protected from damage 

Pool cleaning is both necessary and can help you protect your fibreglass pool. That way, as soon as summer arrives, using the pool is no problem. When your fibreglass pool is clean, you’ll find minimal growth of algae, as well as low debris accumulation. There are many other benefits to maintaining your pool as well. 

Cleaning your pool isn’t important just for the pool itself but also for the garden adjacent to it. You also ensure that the pool toys are maintained, as well as the trees that are close to the pool. 

Here is how you can keep your fibreglass pool clean during the winter months. 

Safely Storing Pool Accessories and Toys 

The first thing you should do is gather all the pool accessories and toys that won’t be used during the winter months. Children love their pool toys, and can spend hours entertained with them by the pool. You don’t want to have to buy new pool toys every summer, so safely storing the old pool toys is a good idea. 

You can also reduce incidents related to tripping over the toys and protect the toys from sun damage by safely storing them. Keep in mind that there are proper ways of storing these toys. If a toy is wet or has moisture, then it may develop mould and mildew. These are unhealthy for kids and bad for the toys as well. This is why pool toys should be stored in covered areas, such as a garage or a basement. This can also protect them from gathering dust or exposure to the snow. 

You can also consider using talcum powder as a way to protect inflatables from sticking together. This prevents damage as well. Store them in airtight containers. You can also think about cleaning the fences next to the pool. All pool accessories like umbrellas, chairs etc should be safely stored away as well. 

Maintaining the Garden 

If you want to keep your fibreglass pool clean during the winter months, then you’ll also need to care for the garden area adjacent to it. The trees will need to be trimmed. Falling leaves can also lead to a mess forming in a pool that is uncovered. If you cover your pool, then these leaves can gather on top of the pool cover and gather moisture. If you now your lawn and prime your trees, then you can prevent this from happening. 

Note that wet, rotting or soggy leaves have a tendency of being perfect for algae. You wouldn’t want an algae bloom in your pool, so keep the area around your pool clean. 

Taking Stock of Pool Chemicals 

Pool chemicals are needed to maintain the water health of your fibreglass pool. Any containers of pool chemicals you have can become useless upon the onset of the new season for swimming. This is why you should take stock to note what is useful and what isn’t. If any chemicals have become redundant, then you’ll need to discard them. Useful chemicals should be locked carefully so that kids and pets cannot access them. 

If you clean your pool area before the winter season starts, then this can save you a lot of work later on. 

Maintaining the Water Chemistry 

Chemicals used for pool closing are essential for keeping the water in the pool clean during the winter season. You’ll need to analyse the level of pool chemicals to determine the pH, the alkalinity, as well as the water hardness. You’ll also need to know how much free chlorine is in your pool before you can add chemicals to it. 

There are also winter algaecides that you can consider, as well as pool enzymes. These help maintain the water in the pool during the winter months. You can also visit a nearby pool store to learn what the best chemical options for balancing the pool water are. 

Cleaning the Pool Water 

Even if you and your family don’t use the pool during the winter months, algae have no such preferences. This is why you’ll need to maintain the water health of your fibreglass pool in the winter months as well. You can drain out some of the water and keep the pool covered during the winter. If you clean your pool thoroughly, then you can save effort when opening the pool during summer again. 

Consider giving your fibreglass pool a good scrub before you close it. Scrub the walls as well as the floor to remove any trace of algae. You can also think about making use of a leaf net so that debris can be removed before making your pool ready for winter. You’ll need to run filters as well so that tiny particles that could lead to the growth of algae can be cleaned out. 

Covering Your Pool 

If you cover your fibreglass pool, then you can ensure that the water is clean and that a lot of effort isn’t required when reopening your pool. You can also prevent problems like debris accumulating in the pool, algae, and even accidental falls. Having a pool cover also ensures that the rate of evaporation of the pool water is reduced and pool chemicals aren’t diluted. 

Conclusion 

Taking care of your fibreglass swimming pool during the winter months is important, and it can help ensure that the water health of your pool is maintained. Use this guide to properly take care of your fibreglass pool during winter. 

Feel free to reach out to our friendly team for support!

Can Fibreglass Pools Be Heated?

The best way to beat the summer heat is to take a dip in your swimming pool but what about the colder winter months?

Winter hibernation is natural for bears and bumblebees, not for your pool! Why neglect your pool in winter when you can use it with a heating system in place. Are you thinking if your fibreglass pool can be heated? Yes, it can be! 

It may sound unconventional but isn’t the thought of swimming in warm water on cold days exciting? Maximize your pool use when you have invested so much in its installation and maintenance. 

Check out our blog for more tips and tricks for Fibreglass Pools!

Are fibreglass pools suitable for heating?

Fibreglass pools are the easiest and quickest to heat, and they also retain heat better compared to vinyl-lined and concrete pools. That simply means you save on your energy bills. A pool heating system can be a blessing on cold winter days. You can continue your swimming workout, relax those sore muscles, and enjoy some fun time with your family in the pool.

You have various heating options available for your fibreglass pool. The most effective are solar heating, heat pumps, and gas pumps. The heating system that is best for your pool depends on the size, frequency of use, purpose, climate, and availability of the sun.

Understanding different options for heating a fibreglass pool

To make an informed decision it is important to know all the pool heating options and their pros and cons. 

Solar Heating

Solar power is one of the cleanest and most effective sources of pool heating. It is a cost-effective solution and extremely popular among pool owners all around the world. As the name suggests, it uses energy from the sun without releasing any harmful gases that cause air pollution. This environment-friendly option may have higher instalment expenses but in the long run, it will save you electricity and fuel bills compared to the other pool heating solutions.

As solar heaters harness the sun’s energy to warm your pool water, the system works best in sunny regions. Placing the solar panels in the sunniest spot in your home, like the roof or backyard can maximise the benefits. Solar heaters are low-maintenance equipment and do not involve much cleaning. Solar heaters can increase your pool’s temperature by up to 2 degrees within a couple of hours on clear, sunny days. On days with a cloud cover, it may take longer than usual to warm your pool, but a solar heater will not fail to work on most days. 

If you are looking at pro-environment, solar energy, you have several options to consider. 

Solar panels can be installed on sunny spots like the roof or lawn. They are easy to install and usually come with a warranty. Solar panels are suitable for small and large fibreglass pools. The working system is simple. It involves a solar collector, a pump, a valve, and a filter for removing debris. The water moves through the filter and is lifted by a low energy consuming pump to the solar collectors. These collectors are heated by the sun’s thermal energy and pass the heat to the water. The warm water is then sent back to the pool. A flow control valve diverts water through the collectors.

Solar panels occupy a large area for installation. Their heating efficiency depends on how many panels have been installed. With more panels, the heating can be quick and efficient. 

Solar mats are blanket-like units suitable for heating small pools. These solar mats are heated up by absorbing sun rays. When the pool water is pumped through these warm solar mats, they successfully raise the temperature of the pool water. Solar mats come in different shapes and sizes to suit different pool requirements. You need enough area to accommodate solar mats. The process of heating is rather slow through this method.

Solar dome pool heaters are compact in design as compared to solar panels and solar mats. This heating equipment looks cool and is ideal for heating inground and above-ground pools. The piping used for heating and circulating water is placed in the domes. Ideal for use in small pools, dome solar heaters may require some extra energy to pump water. These domes require less investment compared to solar mats.

Solar heaters can also be used in combination with other heating systems on days when the skies are overcast. This will reduce energy bills and keep your pool comfortably heated.

Solar blankets look like sheets of bubble wrap that float on the surface of your pool to keep the water warm. These are effective in heating the pool water during the y and trapping the heat at night. You can keep the solar blanket floating when the pool is not in use and roll it up when you want to swim. These solar blankets can be cut to fit the size of your pool making them ideal for any pool. 

Pros Of Solar Heating

  • Energy efficiency
  • Environment-friendly
  • Cost-effective
  • Makes no noise

Cons Of Solar Heating

  • Reliant on the sun 
  • Takes longer to heat water
  • Initial expenses are high
  •  

Gas Heating

Heating your pool with a gas heater or a gas pump is the most expensive method of warming your pool. However, you can use gas heating equipment any time of the year to maintain a consistent water temperature. 

Gas heating systems are reliable and heat water quickly and effectively. The running cost is expensive. Many homeowners use gas pool heating equipment in combination with solar heating to save valuable dollars. 

Pros Of Gas Heating

  • Lower installation cost
  • Quick heating
  • Not reliable on weather
  • Ideal for small pools and spas

Cons Of Gas Heating

  • Not an environment-friendly option
  • Running cost is high
  • Best used as a backup in combination with cheaper and eco-friendly heating alternatives

Electric Heaters

As the name suggests, electric heat pumps run on electricity. They are popular among homeowners as a pool heating choice. Electric heaters collect heat from the surrounding air. The air is then passed over a heat exchanger and an evaporator coil. The pump sends water into a heating tank where it gets warm and is sent back to the pool. The continuous exchange of hot and cold water keeps the pool temperature at a comfortable level.

Electric pool heaters can make your energy bills jump high. These are good for places with weak sunlight. Ideally, running electric heaters as a backup in combination with solar-powered pool heaters can be a money-saving option for you. 

Pros Of Electric Heat Pump

  • Costs less than its gas counterpart
  • Helps maintain a consistent temperature
  • Ideal for pools that are frequently used
  • Effective in warmer climates

Cons Of Electric Heat Pump

  • Takes considerable time to heat water
  • Not so efficient in cooler climates

Which pool heating option is right for me?

As mentioned, every pool heating option has its pros and cons. You can choose any method to heat your fibreglass pool. However, before taking a decision you must consider these important things.

  1. Budget

  2. Size of your pool

  3. How often do you need to heat your pool

  4. Will you benefit from heating your pool?

If you are confused and cannot decide, the ideal option is to discuss it with pool professionals. They have the experience and the knowledge to guide you select what suits your fibreglass pool and requirements best.

Can Fibreglass Pools Be Installed Above Ground?

Always dreamt of having a pool in your home? Worried about your backyard being unsuitable for an in-ground pool? Don’t get stressed, there’s always a solution!

Fibreglass pools are the easiest and quickest to install because they are pre-constructed in factories. Apart from that, fibreglass pools offer several other benefits. They are available in a wide range of designs that can fit into almost any backyard. For properties that do not have a suitable layout for an in-ground pool, the next best option is an above ground pool. Yes, it’s possible!

Fibreglass pools can be installed above the ground. Placing your pool above ground can also be highly beneficial. Fibreglass pools offer great flexibility when it comes to installations. It is possible to install fibreglass pools either inground, partially inground, or above ground. Above ground fibreglass pool shells are thicker and fortified for extensive support. With the right kind of installation, an above ground pool can be one of the best great assets in your home.

We have lots of information that will answer your questions about fibreglass pools! Check out our blogs here!

Before looking at how fibreglass pools can be installed above ground, it is important to know all your options.

Inground Pool

Inground pools are the most conventional, classic pools that come to mind whenever you first think of installing a pool in your home. As the name suggests, an inground pool is completely submerged in the ground. To install or construct an inground pool in your backyard, it needs to be flat and spacious. An inground pool requires digging to create a cavity on the ground for housing the pool. Inground pools are the most popular but also the most expensive option. In an inground pool, the edges are levelled with the ground around the pool and are covered with tiles, stones, or other finishes. 

Partially Above-Ground

Not so common, partially above-ground pools or semi-inground pools can be an ideal option for properties with an uneven backyard that has slopes, and ridges. These pools are partially-submerged into the ground and a major part of the pool remains above the ground. These pools are not as aesthetically pleasing as inground pools as a part of the pool wall is visible. However, with modern design concepts, the wall can be hidden with decking or stonework. Some amount of excavation is required for installing partially inground pools. However, they cost less than inground pools but more than above ground pools. 

Fully Above-Ground Pool

The name says it all! An above-ground pool is defined by its name and stands completely above the ground. The shell of an above ground fibreglass pool is not sunk into the ground and that saves tons of excavation expense. However, an above ground fibreglass pool in your home does not mean compromising on the aesthetics. There are several ways to customise the pool surroundings to give it a stylish and luxurious look with disappearing edges. 

The best part about considering installing an above ground fibreglass pool is the cost factor. As there is no extensive digging involved, you can save thousands of dollars and get the same pool comfort in your backyard. 

Advantages of Above Ground Fibreglass Pools

The advantages that above ground pools offer make them extremely desirable. 

Cost

Above ground pools are much cheaper compared to inground and partially above-ground pools. If you opt for an above ground fibreglass pool, you can avoid a lot of expenses that go into excavation and installation. The pool quality remains the same, you do not have to compromise on safety or convenience if you choose to go with an above ground fibreglass pool. You can have unlimited hours of fun with friends and family and host poolside parties as you would do with any other pool.

If your budget cannot accommodate an inground pool but you desire to have one in your home an above ground pool can be your best option.

Durability

High-quality fibreglass pools are strong and durable. Even when installed above ground, fibreglass pool shells offer great durability due to their high tactile strength. Above ground fibreglass pools are constructed to be slightly flexible so that they do not crack easily and can accommodate minor earth movements. Long-lasting, and reliable, fibreglass pools offer structural integrity. 

Convenience

Installation of above ground pools is the quickest as you do not require to wait for any excavation work. Your backyard will not be teeming with workers and machinery for months. Above ground fibreglass pools are convenient to install and will allow you to use your pool within just a few days. You don’t have to dream about hosting pool parties and relaxing in your pool for months. You can enjoy them sooner than you think! 

Aesthetics

Many homeowners are not open to the idea of installing an above ground pool because they are worried about how a pool sitting above the ground will look. Most property owners are used to looking at inground pools and a new idea always does not appeal to them. You will be surprised to see how beautifully above ground pools can be customised and incorporated with the surrounding using various landscape features and finishes. A well planned above ground pool can be a statement piece in your backyard 

If your backyard cannot accommodate an inground pool, don’t get disheartened. Explore the possibilities of an above ground pool and the stunning options available will surprise you. What you may think will look out of place will turn into a beauty with professional help from your bool builder. 

Above ground fibreglass pools may not last as long as inground pools but you can enjoy them for ten to fifteen years or more depending on how well maintained your pool is. Above ground pools are great for homeowners who do not want to invest more and are not able to install an inground pool. Chat to our friendly team today about getting an above ground fibreglass pool!

Can Fibreglass pools be saltwater? 

Saltwater is becoming a very popular choice amongst pool owners, and a question which is often asked is “Can fibreglass pools be saltwater?”

Fibreglass pools are highly compatible with saltwater and is just another consideration you need to take into account when planning your new swimming pool. Alongside the shape and design, you need to consider which sanitising agent that you will choose to sanitise your pool. The traditional method of chlorinated pools will typically require more maintenance and is actually more expensive to buy than salt, although the initial costs of installing a saltwater chlorinator is more expensive than a chlorine system. When buying a new pool, more and more people are opting for salt water, and even people who are already pool owners are converting their chlorine system into a saltwater one. One of the main reasons for this is they are more economical and are not as harsh on the body. 

Wonder whether you should by a fibreglass pool or a concrete pool? Get the answers here!

What is the Difference Between Saltwater and Chlorine? 

Essentially both systems will sanitise your water using chlorine. However the salt chlorine generator converts the salt into chlorine using a process called electrolysis to remove the algae and bacteria and keep your pool clean. Salt is added at a high level to the water using a salt chlorine generator. The generator will directly convert it into chlorine to sanitise the pool. So you won’t have to worry about actually tasting a lot of salt. Swimming pools have salinity levels that are 1/10th the salinity level of the ocean. A chlorine system cleans your pool with concentrated doses of chlorine, whereas a saltwater system still maintains the quality of the water to the same standard that traditional chlorine systems do, it just uses less chlorine. 

Benefits of Salt Water: 

Safe: 

The chlorine levels are much lower than the concentration of chlorine, this eliminates exposure and contact to harsh chemicals. Unlike chlorine, with salt you can keep your eyes open underwater without having to worry about damage or have any pain. 

No Chlorine Smell: 

You will not have to be worried about leaving the pool smelling like chlorine. Salt water pools have very low concentrations of chlorine which aren’t harsh on the body. 

More Economical: 

Saltwater pools are more economical to run than chlorine. Salt is cheaper than traditional chlorine. Chlorine is around $150 a year whereas salt is around $20. 

Clean: 

The process of electrolysis in the saltwater system releases hypochlorous acid to help maintain a clean pool. 

Good for Skin: 

Saltwater is also known to feel softer and increases the ability of the skin to lock in moisture to help to nourish your skin. People with allergies or sensitive skin can use the pool risk free. Saltwater has no damaging effects on the skin, hair, or body like chlorine does.

Less Maintenance:

The chlorinator units make the chlorine automatically when the pool pumps switch on, maintaining a consistent level of chlorine. This means there is no risk of overdosing the pool with harsh chemicals and making it unsafe to swim in. 

Challenges of Salt Water: 

Corrosive: 

Saltwater won’t damage the interior of a fibreglass pool, however it can corrode components around your pool. Natural stone, plaster or other objects with metal parts can get damaged by the saltwater if they are near the pool. Also, if your saltwater chlorinator system is not looked after regularly, the salt can erode and damage your equipment as well. 

Need to Run the Pump More Often: 

The pool pump will need to run for a minimum of 8 hours per day, maybe even longer for larger pools. 

More Challenging to Balance the Water: 

Saltwater pools will typically require more effort to balance the water levels. Hiring a professional is a good idea, and checking your water chemistry levels on a regular basis, because mineral deposits can build up in the salt cell and inhibit the system from working to its full potential. 

Upfront Cost:

The initial cost of a saltwater system to install is more expensive than the traditional chlorine system. When comparing the two long term, there is not a significant saving either way. However, the chlorine system can last longer than a saltwater system as the salt places additional wear on the equipment. 

Salt Water is the Preferred Choice for Fibreglass Pools: 

More and more families are opting for salt water systems, as they also don’t want to experience the smell or the eye-burning that comes with traditional chlorine. Salt water will keep your fibreglass pool clean, and can even feel silky when you’re in the water. When choosing saltwater, you need to look after the area around your fibreglass pool. If you have concrete, equipment, or a timber deck around your pool, they will be subjected to splashing from the pool. Whilst these surfaces will dry over time, the concentration of the salt is quite high and can be corrosive to objects which have metal or aluminium fittings. Using fresh water to wash down these surfaces after you use the pool, will prevent this from occurring. Also make sure that the handrails that you are installing are compatible with the salt water system. 

While swimming pools can either use a salt water system or a chlorine system, it’s important for you to understand the benefits and challenges of both chlorine and salt water, so that you can keep your pool in top condition. Most people are familiar with the traditional chlorine pools, and now that salt water pools have emerged, it is fast becoming a popular choice for families. There are a lot of things to take into account when deciding on which sanitising system to choose for your pool, and making the decision ultimately comes down to the individual and which type they prefer best. If you want further information or advice, please reach out to our friendly team at Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand, and we will be happy to help.

4 Quick and Easy Steps To Install Your Swimming Pool

Owning your dream swimming pool has never been faster, easier or more affordable with Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand.

1. Request Your Free Quote

Our Friendly Barrier Reef Pools New Zealand Dealer will contact you to organize an onsite quotation.

2. Approve Your Quote

Our experienced dealer will then organize all council approvals prior to commencement of your job.

3. We'll Install Your Pool

The pool excavation and construction process will begin & can be completed in as little as seven hassle free days.

4. You Enjoy Your Pool

Swim, relax and have fun with your family and friends for years to come with one New Zealands' favourite swimming pools.

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