Pool News & Tips

Water-Saving tips for swimming pools & spas 

Here are a few tips to practice water conservation with your swimming pool. Get smart with your water consumption by taking preventative steps and making repairs that help conserve water. 

1. Shut Off Fountains and Waterfalls
When the water features are running, a significant amount of aeration occurs. This creates a lot of water loss due to evaporation. It definitely looks nice and the sound of running water is very relaxing, but strike a compromise! Only run the pool fountains and waterfalls when are are entertaining. 

2. If You are Heating your Pool, Lower the Temperature
Just like boiling water on the stove, heating your pool will speed up the evaporation process. During the summer, reduce the set temperature for the pool heater. 

3. Check for Leaks
Monitor your water and utility bills. Any changes might signal a possible leak or other issue that will need further investigation. Make sure there are no damp spots downstream of the pool or water-saturated soil near the pool or equipment area. Also double check for loose tiles. If you suspect a potential leak, contact a swimming pool professional to discuss leak search options.

4. Use Strategic Poolside Landscaping
Plant pool-area shrubs and use privacy barriers or fences to help reduce wind evaporation that causes water loss. 

Preparing your Pool for
Winter in FLorida

In many northern states with snow, it is a common practice to drain the swimming pool during the winter months. Although "winter" in Florida is really more of an overstatement, it doesn't hurt to take a few important steps to keep our pools happy and healthy during the cooler weather. 

To help you out, we complied a list of things pool owners in Florida should prepare for:

1. Continue cleaning and maintenance. 
Vacuum your pool as usual. Even though you may be using the pool less frequently during winter months, it is important to clean the debris traps to prevent leaves and other sediment from building up and slowing your pool's filtration system. 

2. Monitor water levels!
Due to natural evaporation, you may need to add water more frequently to your pool during the winter. As rainfall decreases, the water in your pool may evaporate faster. Be sure to monitor your water levels and add water as necessary. 

3. Monitor chemical levels with heater use.
If you are enjoying your pool and spa heater more frequently for the cooler months, water chemical levels are commonly used up at an increased rate. Check your chemical levels and make sure everything is balanced correctly. 

4. Purchase a new pool filter cartridge. 
When using your pool and spa heater, if it does not heat up as quickly as it "used to," consider purchasing a new filter cartridge. Pool filter cartridges are similar to the AC cartridges inside your home. After a year or so, the panels in the cartridge become worn and do not filter water as efficiently. 

5. Prevent algae build-up.
Even in winter, Florida is prone to algae bloom from the fluctuating weather conditions. To prevent algae build-up, set your circulation pump to run at least 6-8 hours per day to fully circulate your pool. When it gets warmer, the hours of circulation should increase slightly. 

6. Invest in a pool heater and pool cover.
For maximum enjoyment of your pool, even during the cold days, invest in a pool heater. Since snow is rarely a problem in Southwest Florida, you will be able to enjoy your pool 365 days a year! Pool covers are also handy to maintain the heat levels in the water. 

Should I get a salt water system for my pool?

There has been some debate over salt versus chlorine pools. Both systems provide sanitized water safe for swimming, but please consider some of the great benefits provided by Salt Water Systems:

Gentle on Eyes and Skins
Chlorine levels are generally lower with salt water systems. Adults and children who are sensitive to chlorine often report fewer irritations to eyes and skin when using these pools. Many of our pet lovers often report it's great for our fur-babies too! 

"Soft Water" Feel
Almost like a water softener in your home, the addition of salt makes the water feel silky and smooth to the touch. Many pool owners prefer this over the dry feel of regular chlorinated water. 

Safer Than Chlorine
In tablet or liquid chlorine, the chemicals are a lot stronger compared to the chlorine produced by the salt water systems. Salt water systems constantly break down salt through electrolysis to provide a continuous level of water sanitation with less chemical by-products compared to traditional chlorine. 

While a salt water system requires an initial investment to install, the comfort and possible health benefits outweigh the costs.Many pool owners have already converted their pools into salt water systems and are loving their new swimming experience with a wonderful piece of pool technology!