Swimming Pool

Swimming Pool Water Temperature

Swimming Pool Temperature – know the right level
By: Synapse India | Posted: 27th November 2008

If you are wondering what is the ideal swimming pool temperature then it is not a very easy question to answer. It is so because the proper swimming pools temperature depends largely on the preferences of the swimmers. Based on the recommended heater temperature and the settings from all manufacturers virtually, the ideal temperature range for both the backyard swimming pool and the indoor swimming pool ranges between 75- 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Although this figure is not taken to be as the final one as the temperature varies from the preferences of individual to individual and varied environments.


Ideal swimming pool temperature attainment can be a little tricky job if one possesses backyard swimming pool sans heater. It is so because the swimming pool temperature gradually increases along with the season change and there is a heating of the pool, but the very initial swimming pool temperature of swimming season remains to be cold. It is in fact lesser than 70 degrees Fahrenheit or so which is not quite favorable for even the adventurous lot of the swimmers. If the backyard swimming pool does have a heater, then there are no issues as the temperature of the swimming pool water can be well adjusted as per the requirements and the convenience of the swimmers and their activity levels. For example, cooler swimming pool water is apt for exercising purposes while warmer one is good for beach/ lounge atmosphere.

When the temperature of the swimming pool is increased, this is to be well considered that it may have some effects on the maintenance of the pool. Like, if the pool water temperature is higher, there will be increased water evaporation and thus the pool owners will have to remain vigilant regarding when the water needs to be added for easy swimming. Also, higher pool water temperature also implies quicker build up of the dissolved solids which is actually the “bad stuff” which the chlorine then attacks in the pool water. In fact, having higher temperature may also burn the chlorine and the agents used for pool sanitizing far more quickly. The algal growth will proliferate and increased vacuuming, squeezing and swimming pool cleanups will be required.

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Save Electricity On Swimming Pool Filter With a Smaller Pump

A smaller Swimming Pool Pump Can Save You Big
By: one800pools | Posted: 03rd March 2009

Swimming Pool Season is almost upon us, and its time to go out and open up the pool. So you go out uncover the pool, start up your swimming pool pump and your ready to add your Spring Start-Up Kit, and you find out your pool pump is broken. Great what next? You could just replace your burned out pump with the same model and HP rating in hopes that it was sized right, from when your pool was installed. Or you could make a conscious effort to make sure your pump is sized correctly, allowing you to get maximum filtering benefit and to also save energy.

Bigger is not better when choosing a Pool Pump. What you want to do is use the smallest size pump possible for you swimming pool. To choose the correct pump, you can consult a pool pump-sizing chart. In technical terms you want to match the hydraulic characteristics of the pump to the piping and the pool’s flow characteristics. If you are heating you pool by solar, you also need to consider extra capacity to pump the water through the collectors.

A Study conducted by the State of Florida shows that ¾ hp pump is generally sufficient for residential pools. You can decrease the size of you pool pump by decreasing the systems hydraulic resistance by, substituting a large filter (50% higher than the designed flow rate) and decreasing pipe length or increasing diameter. Also replace 90-degree elbow pipes with 45-degree or even flexible piping. Besides, decreasing the pool water’s circulation resistance can save you up to 40% in electricity use.

Another way to save energy is to decrease the amount you pool pump runs to 6-hours a day. Basically you run the pump while your adding chemicals, and for automatic debris filtering. Longer circulation times wastes energy. Many people think that you have to keep the pump running to keep the growth of algae down, but the best energy conscious effort is to use chemicals in the water and scrub the walls when needed. If you have an instance where the water doesn’t appear clean then increase the pump-on time by ½ hour increments. Studies have shown that most of the people were happy with the water quality reducing their pump time down to even 3 hours a day. On average this would save you 60% on your swimming pool pump electricity. You will have to experiment to find the best operation.


If you have a debris problem caused by reducing your pool pump on time, you can install a timer on your pump (if you don’t have one already) to run at short periods each day and still keep within your lean pump-on schedule. These short cycle-on times should keep you pool clean all day.

Also remember to keep all debris clear of drains and skimmers. Clogged areas make your swimming pool pump work harder thus using more energy. And backwash only when needed because not enough requires your pool pump to work harder, and too frequently wastes water.

In a nutshell, sizing your pool pump to the correct size for your swimming pool, and making energy conscious efforts to reduce pool pump on time can you with lower energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint, thus helping and doing your part in reducing your carbon footprint.
Steve Merillat has been in the Swimming Pool and Spa industry for 35 years. He started early on working for various Swimming Pool supply companies before ventured out in his own business. He pioneered many processes with the installation of Swimming Pools & Spas that are used as industry standards today. He regularly holds seminars and classes on how to properly maintain your Swimming Pool and Spa. For more information on Hot Tubs visit 1800Pools.com

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Home Swimming Pool Care

All about home swimming pools
By: Jakob Jelling | Posted: 23rd April 2007

Although home swimming pools might seem very simple, they actually imply several mechanisms which we usually do not know. Although these mechanisms might vary from one home swimming pool to another, there are some basic ones (such as a filtration system and a chemical treatment to clean water) which are usually present in most of them.

A mechanism which is efficient on maintaining the water clean is one of the most important matters which a swimming pool constructor needs to consider. The main components most home swimming pools usually have in order to keep the water clean are: drains, a water filter, a basin, returns, a pump, PVC plastic plumbing, and a chemical feeder.

Besides this, it is also interesting to know that there are several different basic types of swimming pools. One of these main types of swimming pools is the vinyl lined in-ground one. Vinyl lined in-ground swimming pools can usually be built faster than many others and are one of the cheapest options, although they might not endure as much as others.

Despite of this, the cheapest option nowadays available for constructing a swimming pool is an above the ground one. Above-ground swimming pools are the easiest to build since they are usually bought as pre-fabricated kits, in such a way that often can be installed by a non professional. But, in order to avoid wasting time or money by doing something incorrectly, it is always recommended to hire a professional to do the job.


Fiberglas pools, other of the most usual basic types of swimming pools in the market, are more complicated to construct but are created specifically according to the needs and space of the client. These swimming pools are made by installing fiberglass reinforced plastic in a ground hole, both of them specifically shaped as the client might desire.

Gunite and poured concrete swimming pools are some of the most popular options. Gunite pools are made by spraying a mixture of sand and cement in a hole which has been carefully prepared for the pool. Poured concrete swimming pools are similar, but their construction usually is much more difficult.

Get home design and decorating ideas by watching homes from all over the world - please visit http://www.dwank.com About the Author

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Fix Swimming Pool Water Problems

Say goodbye to swimming pool water problems – with regular use of swimming pool chemicals
By: Ukpoolstore | Posted: 17th April 2009

If you are a pool owner or looking after the maintenance of a swimming pool, you may often face issues regarding your pool water. Maintaining a swimming pool isn’t a hard task, but you need to follow the correct guidelines and know how to deal with pool water problems, especially the correct usage of pool chemicals and swimming pool sanitizers.

Stabilized chlorine granules are ideal pool chemicals which you could use daily in your swimming pool. These chlorine granules have the capacity to destroy harmful bacteria. They do not affect the pH level of the pool water as they already contain clarifiers as well as oxidizers, so it would be a recommended to use them.

You may find that you have algae issues in your swimming pool. It could be either green algae, yellow algae or even harder to remove black algae. You will need to act fast in order to get rid of it. Whenever you opt for an algicide, make sure that you check for the period of effectiveness. Some algicide products promise an algae free pool for almost 6 months after its application; however some products can cause discolouration, adding a haze which gives an untidy look to your swimming pool.

While cleaning your swimming pool, you may have noticed some marks above your water lines which are hard to erase. You can always buy a waterline cleaning gel which is specially formulated for this purpose. The waterline cleaning gel has low foaming properties with non abrasive properties which works wonders on removing the tide marks.

As you try different methods of maintaining your swimming pool, you will come across many varieties of pool chemicals, water clarifiers and algicides which will promise to solve your pool water issues. You should always research their composition, directions for use as well as the dosage required when choosing the right product.


Maintaining swimming pools involves routine treatment and the appropriate use of pool chemicals and swimming pool sanitizers. The most common problems with swimming pools relate to the pool water and its chemistry. Common issues are those regarding swimming pool algae, staining of the pool, chlorine smell and cloudy pool water to name but a few.

While maintaining swimming pool water, you will mainly have to deal with three types of pool algae which are free floating green algae, yellow or mustard algae and finally, black algae. You should therefore use the right kind of swimming pool water clarifiers & algicides such as polyaluminium chloride (PAC) which is a liquid based coagulant. It is advised to also check for the correct dosing system, a FlocPac super clarifier, ground aluminium sulphate or even an Algaecide which contains benzalkonium chloride. It is important that you follow the directions for use in accordance with the quantity usage for best results.

Swimming pool chemicals include swimming pool sanitizers such as stabilized chlorine granules, HTH dedusted granules, aquabrome, sodium hypochlorite (Used on CWS Tank cleaning) or calcium hypochlorite which are easily available and thoroughly sanitize the swimming pool water. While the HTH Calcium hypochlorite can be used in soft water as well as hard water, not only does it act as a sanitizer, it adds much needed calcium into the swimming pool water.

When your swimming pool is being cleaned, you should ensure the right pH level of the water and it should range between 7.4 - 7.6. You can always opt for swimming pool chemicals (in granule form) which work well towards balancing the pH level, be it increasing the pH level or decreasing the pH level.

A Swimming Pool is a place where you can enjoy yourself and relax. So make sure the swimming pool has a regular sanitizing and cleaning schedule which makes the pool water ideal to be used without facing any health risks or hazards.

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Swimming Pool Temperatures

By: Poseidon Swimming Pools | Posted: 12th September 2008

What is an ideal swimming pool temperature? This is a difficult question to answer because it varies based on individual swimmers preferences. Based on recommended heater temperatures and settings from virtually all manufactures, the ideal range for both indoor swimming pools and outdoor swimming pools is anywhere from 75 degrees to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This figure should not be thought of as final as temperature and comfort does differ from person to person and environment to environment, but it a good goal to reach.

If you have a backyard swimming pool without a heater, looking for an ideal temperature is a difficult task. The temperature of the swimming pool will gradually increase as the season changes and as the pool heats up, but the initial temperature of your swimming pool in the early parts of the swimming season will be quite cold – usually well less than 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though there is no proper pool temperature, swimming pools less than 65 degrees Fahrenheit are unpleasant even for the most adventurous swimmers. On the other side, if you do have an outdoor swimming pool with a heater, set it at something that is comfortable to your swimmers and your activity level. For instance, cooler pool water is more ideal for exercising where warmer water is better for a lounge / beach atmosphere. But, keep in mind that turning up your heater too much can lead to unexpected drama.

When you increase the temperature of your swimming pool water, it can have an effect on pool maintenance. With higher temperature comes more water evaporation. This means you will need to be more diligent about filling up your swimming pool to keep the water in your skimmers. Higher water temperatures also mean a faster buildup of dissolved solids. This is basically the “bad stuff” that the chlorine attacks in swimming pool water. Higher pool water temperatures will also burn off your chlorine and pool sanitizing agents much more quickly. Algae also love the hot water so they will grow faster and force more serious and diligent swimming pool vacuuming, squeeging, and cleanup.


Even if you don’t have a swimming pool heater to maintain your swimming pools temperature, the same concerns of a warmer pool will eventually plague your pool in peak summer heat environments. Keep an eye out for seasonal changes and how they will affect your water chemistry. The most important reading in your swimming pool during hot and cold times will be your total alkalinity. When the weather is cooler, your total alkalinity should be increased. In warmer weather, your total alkalinity should be decreased with a muriatic acid to keep the saturation index fairly constant.

There is no ideal swimming pool temperature but you should adjust your temperature based on your individual preference. Also, keep in mind the added responsibilities that come with maintaining a warmer pool. Watch out for seasonal changes and note how they affect your swimming pool chemistry. Both cold and warm temperatures have an effect on pool chemistry and maintenance routines.

Poseidon swimming pools is an inground gunite swimming pool contractor and master swimming pool builder in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Delaware. We build custom inground pools, custom spas, and commercial pools as well as landscaping, patios, and pool houses. About the Author
Poseidon swimming pools is an inground gunite swimming pool contractor and master swimming pool builder in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Delaware. We build custom inground pools, custom spas, and commercial pools as well as landscaping, patios, and pool houses.

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New Polaris 360 Swimming Pool Cleaner Parts

Keep your Polaris 360 operating like new by replacing bad or wearing parts as necessary. Allowing bad parts to remain in the unit will only cause other parts to wear out sooner than they other wise would.

Polaris 360 swimming pool cleaner parts can be very expensive if you buy the from a local hardware store, for example, the drive belts in the Polaris 360 can cost $26.00 in a hardware store, while online they may only cost between $15 and $16.

The Polaris 360 runs a long time without needing to have parts replaced, but if you have had one for over a year you will soon need new belts and bearings. In some cases the wheel covers may need replacing if they are worn on the sides causing the unit to circle more often than it used to. I got more use out of my wheel covers by turning them around and putting what was on the inside on the outside. That lasted for six months until I had to replace the wheel covers with new ones.


Also, the Polaris 360 debris bags, you can find all types of the debris bags online for a significant discount to what they sell for in stores. Normally the bags last for, at least, one year, but if you happen to have one with a Velcro closure it may need to be replaced sooner because the Velcro looses its hold after a while being in the water. I have had much better luck with the debris bag with the plastic zipper.

Swimming Pool Water Testing

At least once a week swimming pool water needs to be tested to ensure certain levels of pool chemicals are present in the water to do the necessary work of keeping the swimming pool water sanitary and clear. This is most conveniently done after backwashing the filter.

A well balanced swimming pool only needs to have the pH and chlorine levels checked and adjusted on a regular basis, the other chemical values being measured less frequently.

A good pool test kit is a must - preferably one that uses tablets rather than liquid drops. Expired tablets/ test liquids (reagents) should be thrown out as they very often give inaccurate readings, resulting in us pouring unnecessary (expensive) chemicals into our swimming pools. Always keep the test kit in a cool dry place out of the sun and out of the reach of children.

When testing the pool water, rinse the cells of your test kit thoroughly before filling them with water from at least 12 to 15 inches below the surface of the swimming pool. When you're finished the tests, pour the test liquid down a drain. Never pour the test liquid back into the swimming pool.

On a weekly basis you need to check the:
pH
Chlorine


If there are no obvious problems in your swimming pool, the following tests need to be performed every month, or at least every three months. These tests can be performed by a professional swimming pool technician, who comes to your pool, or the tests can be done at many swimming pool supply stores. You will only need to take them a pool water sample (in a clean glass jar!).

Monthly pool water testing consists of the following tests:
Total Alkalinity
Calcium Hardness
Total Dissolved Solids
Stabilizer

If the water in your area is free from any metals and your swimming pool shows none of the symptoms of iron or copper presence, the test for these metals is unnecessary. If, however, you notice a brown/gray stain on the walls and floor of the swimming pool, you should have the levels of these metals checked.

Chlorine Smell In Swimming Pool Water

Pool owners complain that their swimming pool water is not really clean, but has a strong odor of chlorine so, it seems as though, there must be enough in the water to ensure proper disinfection.

It is normal to think that a strong smell would indicate an abundance of something, but with chlorine it is actually the opposite. What happens with chlorine is, if you can smell chlorine, the swimming pool hasn't got enough - strange, isn't it?! What you are smelling are chloramines. These are formed when insufficient levels of free available chlorine react with ammonia and other nitrogen-containing compounds (swimmer waste, sweat, urine, etc.), resulting in the wastes only being partially broken down (creating halomethanes and odor).


To confirm this, measure the free available chlorine and total chlorine. You will be able to calculate the unwanted, irritating combined chlorine compounds as follows:

Combined chlorine = total chlorine - free chlorine

You will probably find that there is little or no free available chlorine and too much combined chlorine. A chlorine shock treatment or other pool water sanitizer is necessary to complete the disinfection and dissipate the combined chlorine.

The combined chlorine in the pool water can also be destroyed with a non-chlorine powder based shock if you prefer not to use large quantities of liquid chlorine.

Yellow-Green Swimming Pool Water

If you have been in the path of a hurricane or heavy rain storm and have a swimming pool your pool water probably became green or yellow after the storm passed. Storms have a way of knocking the PH and chemical balance of a pool for a loop.

Swimming pool water can become contaminated by the rain water depositing particulates it has accumulated along the way, or, possibly your swimming pool water just became dirty from ground water rising and spilling into your pool, if that is your problem all you will have to do is run your filter steady for three days back washing or cleaning your filter as needed.

Also the addition of a clarifier would help your swimming pool filter remove the fine silt that usually washes into a pool during a hurricane.
If, on the other hand, you have green or yellow swimming pool water you will need to run your filter for around three days and keep the water balanced as you apply shock to the water.

My swimming pool recently turned green when Hurricane Fey moved through our area dumping a lot of rain.

After three days of filtering the swimming pool water and keeping the PH and chlorine in check the swimming pool water returned to normal.

I am using a Triton Sand Filter so I had to backwash the filter four times to clean up the water. I also used HTH 4-in-1 granules to clear up the water.

Make sure you brush the sides and bottom of your pool as the water starts to clear up while the filter is running so it can take away any silt that had been resting on the walls or bottom of the pool.

Polaris 360 Is Going Slow With Normal Water Pressure

The Polaris 360 is powered by water jet that focus a jet of water of water on an internal impeller that is connected to a gearbox to drive the wheels on the Polaris 360. Similar water jets are used in the throat that picks up the leaves and debris in your pool.

The Polaris 360 originally comes with a small screen in the inlet of the hose that propels the Polaris 360. Some pool filters are set-up to use a two-way valve to feed pre-filtered water to their Polaris 360 and to the swimming pool filter. This two-way valve set-up usually works great as long as there is no debris in the water that is small enough to pass through the skimmer basket. Debris that will pass through a skimmer basket, in most cases, will be too large to pass through the water jets inside of the Polaris. The debris will then get stuck in the jet and slow the Polaris 360 considerably.


To correct the problem the water jet will have to be cleaned out and the best way to do that is to take the Polaris apart and blow it out with a can of air, the same stuff you get to clean out a computer.

Remove the top on the Polaris and you will see the inlet pipe connected to the debris throat, remove the screws holding the inlet pipe to the debris throat and lift the inlet pipe out. That will give the axle room to move up once you open the gear box housing.

Next, open the gearbox housing by locating the one screw holding it down toward the rear of the Polaris. Once you remove the screw lift the housing off and the impeller will be exposed. Next, remove all four screws on the corners of the Polaris to detach the gearbox assembly from the bottom case of the Polaris.
When the gearbox assembly is lifted off the lower case you will see the drive jet right under where the impeller was. Blow out the jet and the debris should fall into the area right below it, once the debris is in there suck it out with a wet vac then re-assemble the Polaris 360 in reverse order. Put the unit back in the pool and it should run as it is supposed to. To prevent the jet from getting clogged again it would be a good idea to keep the small filter screen on the inlet of the hose into the Polaris.

If you live in an area where a lot of debris blows into your pool you may need to clean the screen twice per day to keep the Polaris running right. It is much easier to clean the screen than it is to take the Polaris apart every time something clogs the jet.

Another possibility is that the belts that drive the wheels are bad. The belts are the types with grooves in them and if the belt deteriorates the grooves can come off making the belt slip on the pulley. It is a good idea to keep a set of spare belts available for when they do go bad, for me I replace them at least once a year.