Two of the most popular forms of swimming pools are chlorine and saltwater. Both come with their own set of pros and cons. For instance, saltwater pools require far less maintenance, but chlorine pools tend to be less expensive initially. Let’s take a closer look at the difference between these two types of swimming pool systems as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Saltwater Pools and Chlorine Pools
Saltwater pools use standard water with an addition: salt. Some people believe that saltwater pools are chlorine-free, but the truth is that there are low levels of chlorine. A saltwater pool generator is responsible for converting the salt into very small amounts of chlorine, which helps ensure that the water remains clean without additional chemicals. Due to this electrolysis generator, this type of pool costs more initially.
Chlorine pools use chlorine tablets, liquids, or sticks to balance the chlorine levels within the pool. Too much chlorine can be very dangerous for your health, so keeping a close eye on these levels is important. Generally, chlorine levels need to be checked on a weekly basis and after weather events.
Saltwater Pools: Pros and Cons
Pros
Simple, Inexpensive Maintenance – It takes less work to maintain the cleanliness of a saltwater pool than a chlorine pool. In addition, the annual maintenance of a saltwater pool is a fraction of the cost of a chlorine pool.
Easier on the Body – Excess chlorine levels can lead to respiratory, visual, and skin problems. However, saltwater pools do not contain toxic fumes from chlorine and are much gentler on the body.
Impressive Return on Investment (ROI) – Although there is a higher initial cost for saltwater pools, the long-term investment will be well worth it due to lower operational costs and lack of potential health issues.
Cons
Higher Upfront Cost – The most significant drawback of saltwater pools is the initial investment, as it is larger than a chlorine pool. This is because of the process of converting a pool system to saltwater.
Chlorine Pools: Pros and Cons
Pros
Low Initial Cost – The cost of swimming pool construction will vary from one provider to the next and be based on the exact dimensions and specifications of the pool. However, a chlorine pool may be best if you need an option that costs less upfront. There are additional costs associated with saltwater pools due to the conversion process.
Less Equipment Needed – Chlorine pools generally just need three things to become functional: a pump, a filter, and chemicals. While additional items can be purchased to improve your experience, those are the necessities. A saltwater pool requires a pump, a filter, a saltwater generator, and saltwater cells.
Cons
Harsh on the Body – One drawback of chlorine pools is the chlorine can be hard on the hair, eyes, and skin, causing irritation for some individuals.
More Maintenance Required – Chlorine pools require frequent maintenance to ensure the water remains clean and clear. Chemicals often need to be adjusted every week and each time it rains.
Which Type of Pool Is Best for You?
Whether this information has helped you determine the type of swimming pool system you would like, or you still need a little bit more information, contact a swimming pool construction professional in your local area. Avanti Pools, Inc. is a professional pool builder that is happy to address any questions or concerns you have regarding these pool systems.
Swimming at night can be incredibly fun and relaxing, as you have the nighttime air surrounding you, and the pool water is the perfect temperature. However, to ensure you can have the most fun while still being safe, you need to consider hiring a swimming pool contractor to illuminate the pool area for when you take a nighttime swim.
Illuminate Pool Perimeter and Pathways
One of the first areas you will want to light up is the paths to and from and around the pool. This helps ensure you can see the outer edges of the pool easily and avoid stubbing your toe on a landscaping stone as you make your way to the pool. LED pool lighting will offer a subtle glow in these areas while adding a touch of charm.
Highlight the Landscaping
LED pool lighting is not only for the pool itself. In fact, you should use it to showcase the landscaping around the pool area. From flower beds to gazebos, LED lighting can help the decorative features of your yard stand out in the dark. If you have a water feature as part of your pool or surrounding landscaping, hidden spotlights can be used to highlight these features.
Prepare for Intimacy
There may be some instances when you don’t want the pool area illuminated very brightly, but you would like enough light to be able to see well and keep the atmosphere intimate. LED pool lighting with a dimmer switch is effective at allowing a softer, warmer illumination when you want something a little more special.
Use Unique Colors
While white or off-white lights are the go-to, you may wish for something a little more upbeat. If this is the case, consider LED pool lighting that is available in multiple colors. Some lighting may be multi-colored, a specific color like blue or purple, or switch through several colors. Colored lights can be great when you are having a larger gathering or a party, whereas a peaceful green or calming blue set of lights may be ideal for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Ready To Illuminate Your Pool With LED Pool Lighting?
While some lighting installations around the pool can be DIY projects, you may prefer to work with a professional swimming pool contractor to ensure everything is set up properly and looks the best it can. Contact Avanti Pools, Inc. when you want a professional touch to your pool lighting installation.
Are you in the market for a pool cleaner? If so, you may be wondering how to choose the best one for your needs. There are many different cleaners on the market, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the factors you should consider when choosing a pool cleaner.
What Type of Vacuum Does My Pool Need?
There are many different types of pool cleaners, and each one is designed for a specific type of pool. If you have an above-ground pool, you’ll need a different cleaner than if you have an inground pool. Here are several types of vacuums:
Above-ground pool cleaner: These cleaners are designed specifically for above-ground pools. They usually have a hose that attaches to the side of the pool, and they use suction to clean the pool.
Inflatable pool cleaner: These cleaners are designed for small pools, such as inflatable pools or kiddie pools. They usually have a hose that attaches to the side of the pool, and they use suction to clean the pool.
Robotic pool cleaner: These cleaners are designed for all types of pools. They are self-contained and move around the pool on their own, cleaning as they go.
What Type of Filter Does My Pool Need?
Pool cleaners come with different types of filters, and you’ll need to choose one that is compatible with your pool. Here are some of the most common types of filters:
Cartridge filter: This type of filter traps dirt and debris in a cartridge that can be removed and cleaned.
Sand filter: This type of filter traps dirt and debris in a bed of sand. The sand must be replaced periodically.
Diatomaceous earth (DE) filter: This type of filter traps dirt and debris in a bed of diatomaceous earth, which is a type of fossilized algae. The DE must be replaced periodically.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Pool Cleaner?
Now that you know some of the different types of cleaners available, here are a few factors to consider when choosing the best one for your needs:
The size of your pool: You’ll need to choose a cleaner that is designed for the size of your pool. If you have a small pool, you don’t need a large, industrial-sized cleaner.
The type of pool you have: As we mentioned, there are different cleaners for different types of pools. Be sure to choose one that is designed for your type of pool.
Your budget: Pool cleaners can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Choose a cleaner that fits your budget.
Your cleaning needs: Some cleaners are designed for specific cleaning needs, such as pools with a lot of leaves or pools with a lot of dirt and debris. If you have specific cleaning needs, be sure to choose a cleaner that is designed to meet those needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the best pool cleaner for your needs doesn’t have to be difficult. Just consider the size of your pool, the type of pool you have, your budget, and your cleaning needs. With a little bit of research, you’ll be able to find the perfect cleaner for your home. Contact Avanti Pools, Inc. today to learn more about our pool cleaners and how we can help you choose the best one for your needs. We look forward to hearing from you.
There are a lot of people who consider getting a self cleaning pool set up at their house. They frequently come to Avanti Pools Inc. to see what kind of cost factors they may be looking at for their pool setup. Let’s talk about what those costs are and if a pool service might be worthwhile for you to get.
Initial Costs
The cost for a swimming pool contractor to come out and help you set up a self-cleaning pool can cost upward of $5,000 to get started. Yes, this is a heavy expense for many people, but it can also pay off when you think about the value that it adds to your home both from an enjoyment point of view, but also from the real value that it adds to the price tag of your home as well. If you want to invest in your home in a way that helps you get more out of it in the long run, then there is no question that you need to consider looking at a self-cleaning pool.
You Will Need a Pool Cover
To get the best possible results, you will need a pool cover ready to go for your pool. It will help keep the leaves and other debris out of your pool. Yes, the pool is self-cleaning, but you can still keep it maintained much better by getting a cover that you can use to keep the excess debris out of the pool. If you do that, your self-cleaning pool won’t have to work quite so hard to do the job it is designed to do. This may make it last longer and get better results for you overall.
Challenging to Read Faults
The self-cleaning pool you put into place is so well designed that it may be challenging to tell when fault codes need to be addressed. You will definitely need to check on this kind of thing for yourself regularly. You may even want to call out a swimming pool contractor to help with the situation in the event that you are struggling to read those codes or aren’t sure what they mean. Someone from our team will be happy to come out and help you get a better understanding of what is going on with your pool if you will let us do so.
Best With New Pools
Finally, we leave you with the idea that self-cleaning systems are best used on new pools. It is possible to use it on any pool, but the best results will come from a pool that has been newly installed. Otherwise, the pool may have some issues with getting the job done for you in the ways you have come to expect. Please make sure you look at getting your self-cleaning system installed in new pools in particular.
Chlorine is a necessary chemical to keep your pool looking great and clean this summer. With the right concentration of chemicals and the right amount, you can keep your pool clean, clear and free of algae and bacteria that might be growing. Chlorine has been in short supply in the past few months, and it is leaving some asking if there is a chlorine shortage.
Is There a National Chlorine Shortage?
In 2020, the plant that most of the supply of chlorine for the United States burned down. The plant was responsible for creating and providing most of the chlorine that is used in the United States, and the nationwide stockpile started to deplete.
There was never a declared shortage, but the shutdown of the plant did make it hard for those that needed chlorine to get it for their pools and other various uses. The burned plant is slated to reopen in 2023 as it is being rebuilt and will begin operations again soon.
It is important to note that some chlorine is available in the stores, but the prices may be higher than they were in recent years. This means that you may be able to find the chemicals you need, but that it might cost more to keep your pool as clean or as treated as you were able to when prices were lower.
Can My Swimming Pool Contractor Get Chlorine?
For those with recent pool construction, your contractor is going to be more likely to be able to access the chemicals needed to upkeep your pool. Pool companies and pool stores are going to be far more likely to have the chemicals needed in stock and on the shelves than your grocery store or department store might be.
It is essential to ensure that you have the right amount of chemicals and the right concentration to ensure that no bacteria or microbial growth can damage your pool and make the water unsafe. Your contractor is likely to be able to help you get the right amounts of chemicals and the right alternatives if they cannot get the chemicals you normally use. They may also be able to help suggest options like a salt water pool that does not require as much chlorine to keep it clean and to keep it so that you and your family can enjoy it.
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