How To Choose The Right Pool Sanitation System For Your Pool
When it comes to keeping your pool clean and safe, you need the right sanitization system. There are many options out there for you to consider, but it is important to choose the right system for your pool, budget and lifestyle. Some of the most common sanitation systems include chlorine, salt water, ozone and UV light. They all work to reduce the amount of chemicals you need to keep your pool clean and sanitized.
Chlorine
Chlorine is a widely used pool sanitation system because it’s inexpensive, easy to use and kills bacteria and algae. But chlorine can also produce a lot of byproducts, like chloramines and trihalomethanes that cause skin and eye irritation to swimmers. So if you’re a chlorine allergy sufferer, or want to save money by not using the harsh chemical, you might need to consider a different system. You can look for a hydroxyl-based AOP (Activated Oxidation Pool) system, which works by oxidizing pool water. This oxidation is so powerful that it reduces the need for chlorine down to drinking-water levels. It can even sanitize hot tubs and spas. However, the newest system is not without its drawbacks. For one, the cyanuric acid (CYA) stabilizer required for the CYA system can build up and make the sanitizer less effective. This makes it a frustrating maintenance nightmare. So many pool owners are looking to other pool sanitizing alternatives.
Salt
Saltwater is another sanitation option, but it has its own set of pros and cons. For instance, saltwater systems are a bit pricey to purchase and maintain. They also require you to monitor water chemistry once or twice a week, depending on your pool’s chemistry balance. This is important because it’s easier to sanitize water that is properly balanced than water that has been over-treated with chlorine or other chemicals. You should also keep an eye on salt levels, especially if you have a salt system. Over-salting is a common problem with these systems.
Ozone
Ozone is a powerful oxidizer that destroys bacteria and other organic matter. It also oxidizes oils, making your pool water softer and safer to swim in. Ozone can be produced in two ways: UV ozone generators and corona discharge systems. Both methods use ultraviolet light or high voltage to turn air into ozone molecules. In the case of a UV ozone generator, air is passed over lamps that emit ultraviolet light at 185 nanometers. The ultraviolet energy splits the oxygen molecules, creating ozone molecules that are then passed into the pool. All and all, ozone is a great option for swimming pools because it can be used to disinfect your pool without the risk of irritating your eyes or skin, or causing respiratory problems. It also helps remove chlorine odors from your pool, leaving you with fresh-smelling water.
UV
UV pool sanitation systems are an effective and safe way to sanitize your pool without chlorine. The ultraviolet light from these lights sanitizes your pool water as it passes through the filtration system, eliminating harmful bacteria and algae as it does so. However, UV lights do not work as an oxidizer, so you still need to add a low level of chlorine or other chemical to sanitize your pool after the ultraviolet system is off.
Copper Silver Ionizer
Another way to sanitize your pool is with a copper silver ionizer. These ionizers use a low electric current to create copper and silver ions in the water. These ions kill algae, bacteria and viruses, but they do not sanitize the water completely. Some chlorine is still needed, as these ionizers don’t kill all of the contaminants that contaminate your pool. They also have a tendency to cause eye and skin irritation. You should consult with a swimming pool professional before installing this system in your pool to determine the best sanitation option for you.
Regardless of whether you have a swimming pool or not, it is always a good idea to know when it is time for maintenance or a remodel. Pool remodeling can include anything from simple resurfacing to a complete rebuild. The goal is to create an outdoor living space that you and your family will love. Here are some of the most noticeable signs that you need to have your pool remodeled:
1. Cloudy Water
If your water looks milky white or cloudy it may be a sign that you need maintenance or a remodel to your pool. Usually the cause of cloudy water is air bubbles. High water pressure is another common cause of cloudy water. The higher the pressure, the easier it is for the water to disperse air and the more air bubbles it can create. Some homeowners may be able to solve the problem with an inexpensive sediment filter. These filters use activated carbon cartridges to trap sediment.
2. Damaged Tiles
If your pool’s tiles look damaged, it may be time to repair or remodel them. These tiles are the protective and decorative elements of a swimming pool, and it’s a sign that you need to take care of them before they become damaged again. To start, you need to drain the pool below your damaged tiles and let them dry completely. This will allow you to access the tiles below the water line, which are easier to repair than those above it.
3. Rust
When the surface of your pool begins to develop rust stains, this is a sign that you need to do some maintenance or remodel. Rust is a type of corrosion that occurs when iron oxidizes and reacts with oxygen. Depending on how it’s formed, the rust can be quite difficult to remove. It can also cause serious problems for the metal that it has formed around, such as the walls of your pool or even the rebar.
4. Cracked Walls
Wall cracks are a common problem that can indicate a need for maintenance or remodel to your swimming pool. They may be caused by roof truss issues, tree roots or structural issues that need addressing. They can also be a sign of foundation problems. If you notice a wide or jagged crack, you should contact a professional to ensure the issue isn’t more serious than it appears. If the cracks are hairline or only surface level, they can be patched with drywall putty and a new coat of paint. But, if they are diagonal or extensive, it is best to call in a qualified building inspector to assess the situation and provide an estimate of potential costs for remediation.
5. Broken Lights
A swimming pool that is in disrepair and has broken lights is a sign that you need to get some maintenance or remodel work done. Whether it is just a few light fixtures or an entire new deck, these changes can bring a whole new look to your pool. One of the most common causes of broken pool lights is a faulty lens gasket. This rubber ring seals the plastic housing unit and is susceptible to warping or rotting due to chlorine exposure over time. Regardless of the reason, the best thing you can do is to take care of it right away. Otherwise, your pool could become a danger to anyone who gets into it!
If you’re a pool owner, you know that maintaining a pool requires more than just throwing chemicals in and closing the cover. Having a plan in place can save you time and money while ensuring that you enjoy the season. To help you out, we’ve rounded up some of the most important tips for maintaining your pool using the sources provided. Take a look!
1. Keep It Clean
Keeping your pool clean is one of the most important things you can do to keep it running smoothly. It can help you avoid major maintenance problems or costly repairs down the road. Algae is a common issue that can grow quickly in your pool, forming slimy green coatings on the walls and floor. This can cause the water to become cloudy and clog the filter. Luckily, there are many easy-to-use products that you can use to prevent algae from growing in your pool. These include a clarifier, bleach or muriatic acid.
2. Maintain The Water’s pH Levels
Your pool water’s pH levels are an important part of maintaining the overall chemical balance in your pool. Maintaining this balance is a complicated process that requires constant monitoring and adjustments. A low pH level can cause a number of problems, including skin and eye irritation to swimmers, corrosion on pool surfaces, etching in concrete swimming pools, and eroding pool equipment. To bring the water’s pH back into a healthy range, you can add acids, degreasers, or alkalinity increasers to raise it. Leslie’s Dry Acid (sodium bisulfate) and Muriatic Acid are common chemical options, but be sure to read the product label for dosing instructions and safety precautions.
3. Maintain The Water’s Alkalinity Levels
Maintaining the water’s alkalinity levels is one of the most important things you can do to keep your pool looking beautiful and healthy. When the alkalinity in your pool goes too low, it can cause several problems, including itchy skin and stinging eyes for swimmers, as well as corrosion of metallic surfaces like your pool ladder and liner. In addition, alkalinity also helps stabilize your pool’s pH level so that it remains balanced. This is especially important for pools with high chlorine levels. The best way to raise the alkalinity in your pool is to add baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). You can purchase it in powder form and sprinkle it into the water. It will take around six hours for it to disperse. Afterward, retest your pool’s pH and alkalinity levels to ensure they are still in the proper range.
4. Maintain The Water’s Calcium Levels
Often overlooked, calcium hardness levels are a critical part of maintaining a safe pool. Low calcium levels can lead to dangerous stains on the surface of your pool and equipment, while high calcium levels can cause serious damage to metal fittings and heat exchangers. Like pH and alkalinity, calcium hardness is a chemical that needs to be in balance to protect your swimming pool surfaces from corrosion, staining or discoloration. This is why we always recommend balancing the essential chemicals before making any adjustments to calcium hardness. You can keep your water’s calcium levels from getting out of whack by testing, adjusting and then retesting to make sure the adjustment has been successful. Test your pool water twice a week to ensure it stays in the right range.
5. Maintain The Water’s Total Dissolved Solids Levels
Keeping track of your water’s Total Dissolved Solids levels is one of the most important things you can do for your pool. It allows you to see the overall quality of your water and make sure everything is working properly. TDS is a measure of the amount of organic and inorganic materials that are dissolved in water. It includes a variety of substances like minerals, salts, and ions. TDS can be found naturally in waters, but it may also come from chemicals used to treat water or runoff from roads and yards. You can keep a tab on your TDS level with an electronic TDS meter or test strip.
If you have a hillside or a slope in your backyard, installing a pool can be challenging. However, it is possible with careful planning and a little bit of creativity. Here are 5 common things to consider when building a pool on a hillside or a slope.
• Geotechnical Issues
There are a number of geotechnical issues to consider when building a pool on a hillside or a slope. These include soil gradation, bearing capacity, shrink and swell potential, lateral earth pressure and groundwater conditions.
Soil gradation can alter the stability of a foundation structure, potentially resulting in cracking of the pool shell or uneven heaving or settlement of the bottom if the soil swells and shrinks with moisture content change. This can result in significant damage to a pool shell or below grade piping systems. A qualified geotechnical engineer can conduct a study of the site to provide data on these soil properties and recommendations for the structural design of the pool shell. The study involves analyzing soil samples taken from borings drilled on the site.
• Terracing
Terraces are ridges and channels constructed across-the-slope, usually at regular intervals to regulate water flow and storage. This is a soil conservation practice that helps prevent rainfall runoff from accumulating on a steep sloping land surface and causing severe erosion.
Even though terracing is typically used for crop irrigation, when you’re building a pool on a hillside or a slope, you will need to consider terracing issues as well. If you have a significant slope, terracing can be a very effective solution to help keep your pool level while making it look intentional and beautiful. The best pool builders will be able to design and build a series of retaining walls that divide the slope into multiple levels, creating a gradual step-down effect.
• Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are a great way to ensure proper drainage and protect your pool from erosion. They are also a very attractive design feature that can be used to create a more distinctive and pleasant space around your swimming pool. Retaining walls can be made from masonry, poured concrete, or stacked stones.
• Infinity Edges
One of the most dramatic and striking features to consider when building a pool on a hillside or slope is the infinity edge. Infinity-edge pools feature a wall that slopes downward to allow water to fall into a lower catch pool, which is hidden from view. This water is then pumped back into the main pool, creating the waterfall effect. However, do note that they are not for every backyard. If your property has a very steep slope for example, you’ll need serious engineering and support to accommodate the pool, which can add to the cost.
• Drainage
Drainage is an important element in the construction of any swimming pool and outdoor area. It can prevent water from causing damage to landscaping, decks, patios, and home exteriors. When you’re building a pool on a hillside or slope, it’s a good idea to work with a professional contractor who knows what drainage solutions can best keep your property safe from the hazards of uncontrolled water. There are a number of drainage solutions to consider, including permeable paving, French drains, and catch basin drainage systems. Each system works differently, but all three can keep unwanted runoff water away from your yard, deck, and pool.
Infinity pools are often considered to be a luxury feature, making your home more attractive to potential buyers and increasing its resale value. However, before deciding to install one of these amazing features, you need to be sure that it’s right for your property and budget. The first question to ask is if you have a view. If you do, then this feature may be ideal for you. And if you want to make your infinity pool even more impressive, consider adding a glass wall to it. This can be an optional but beautiful feature that costs about $100,000 on average.
If your yard features a dramatic drop-off with a gorgeous view, an infinity pool is undoubtedly the perfect addition to your home. However, even if your backyard isn’t particularly beautiful or the view from your home isn’t breathtaking, an infinity pool can still be the best choice for you. If you have a large yard for example, it can be a good idea to discuss the option of an infinity pool with your builder early on. They can work with your landscaper to create a pleasing background for the edge of the pool, or they may be able to install it into a slope to help tuck it out of view.
And while infinity pools are a bit more expensive than standard inground pools, they’re not out of reach for most homeowners. The cost of an infinity pool varies depending on its size and the materials used to build it. Generally, materials make up about 50% to 75% of the overall cost. To help sweeten the deal, it is important to note that infinity pools are not only eco-friendly but they’re more efficient than traditional swimming pools. Because of their vanishing edge, they create a constant stream of water that recycles back into the main pool. This can reduce the amount of electricity needed to heat and cool your pool, which will save you money over time!
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How To Choose The Right Pool Sanitation System For Your Pool