Category: Pools & Spas


Pool Construction – What You Need to Know

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Jan.04, 2011

Having a swimming pool in your house can make it a great place to spend time with your family and friends. They are the best ways to beat the scorching heat of the summers and can actually make you look forward to the warm months. Children, too, love to splash about in the pools with their friends. You might want to consider the idea of pool construction if your house does not already have it. Having a pool also adds to the resale value of your house. It is not too difficult to construct it in your backyard. Discussed below are some guidelines on how to build one:


Appointing a contractor


You will have to consult a contractor or a professional company that specializes in making pools. They will be the best guides and will assist you with your decisions regarding pool construction.


Budget


It is not an unknown fact that constructing pools requires a considerable sum of money. That is why; you need to decide the budget. Your contractor will be able to do this better. A budget of a pool depends on type of pool you want, its shape and size, the materials you will be using, whether you want to install pool accessories like fountains, slides, fancy lights, etc. Another thing to consider for the budget are things like the electricity bill, water bill, maintenance cost, water pump, pool filters, chemicals for cleaning the water and the pool, etc.


Budget of a pool construction also depends on the specific type of pool you plan to build. While above-ground pools tend to be cheaper, in-ground pools can be a costly affair. It is advisable to seek the help of your contractor when deciding these issues.


Materials to be used


Pools are mostly made of gunite, fiber glass or poured concrete. Using stainless steel for pool construction is another consideration. Although it is a popular belief to not use metal to construct a pool because it might get rusted, in reality it is actually the contrary. Using stainless steel adds durability and strength to a pool. Check for the correct grade and treatment of the stainless steel, as this will help the pool to remain free from the harmful effects of the chemicals added to the water.


You may want to put tiles on the floors and walls of the pool. However, make sure that the surfaces are regularly cleaned as they may develop algae growth, making the water unhygienic. You can put up lights of different colors and effects to make your pool look interesting even after sundown.


Safety measures


Safety measures are a big concern, especially if you have small children in your family. You can put safety fences around the pool and can keep the pool covered with a safety cover when it is not in use. Make sure your contractor gives you a safety demonstration after the pool is constructed.


Pool construction is no big deal. You have to follow some steps meticulously in order to achieve your dream pool.

Shawn Nisse is the President of Levco Pools Inc, a company that is committed to providing high quality solutions for pool construction, full renovations, maintenance and repairs. For more information about pool construction get in touch with Levco Pools.

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Things To Consider In Above Ground Acrylic Hot Tubs

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Oct.11, 2010

Nothing beats relaxing your muscles in a nice hot tub after a long day working in the yard, exercising or just for general purposes. If you’re considering making this decadent lifestyle your own, you may want to consider above ground acrylic hot tubs as an addition to your patio or yard. The normal above ground acrylic hot tubs are the most purchased spa or hot tub and what most consumers have in mind when they imagine owning one. Like the inflatable spa, they’re technically seen as portable, but it takes more effort as well as bigger, stronger men or hand trucks to transport. The acrylic models require a solid flat spot, like a cement or concrete spot, for correct installation. You may find that the above ground hot tubs also take a 220-volt outlet versus the standard 110-volt regular plug-in that most inflatable or movable hot tubs require.


There are two basic types of hot tubs to choose from and while the acrylic hot tubs are pricier than the OAS ones, the acrylic spas enjoy a better look to them, they also are more likely to have small bubbles form or split with exposure to lots of sunlight or high or low temperatures. A great feature of the above ground spas is that they have all the parts fitting into a housing case. This includes the water heating unit as well as the filtering equipment, which are then put into the wood or wood-like case.


The seating configurations vary from a two-person cozy seating to the bigger 10-person units that have various ways to set up seats. There are tons of additional options to consider, from seats that will massage the sore muscles to funky lights in bright blues, reds and yellows.. The owner can also add a float up bar that keeps everything cold, TV/DVDs and sound systems. The jets you choose can also turn the spa from a relaxation center to a therapeutic spa. They vary in quantity and style, allowing you to choose the typical normal jets, jets that give a massage, whirlpooling jets and jets that are built into the inflatable pillows. How’s that for luxury?


Most dealers represent a limited amount of above ground acrylic hot tub brands. They allow you to enjoy a test wet drive and slip into the floor model for a tester soak, so when you’re serious about buying, take your suit in with you to the dealer. People in the know all say that this test soak will tell the tale and you’ll be able to tell if the seat set-up and location of the jets are going to work for you. During the wet test, you want to think about the noise and how simple it is for you to get in and out of the tub. Think about the controls and how much effort it takes to change them, locate the cup holders and adjust the jets. You should inquire about the ongoing costs to maintain the tub and what type of warranty comes with the tub. It’s certain you’ll have future questions or need a service call in the future. Make sure that the dealer can be contacted easily and will respond to your inquiries. Check with the Better Business Bureau and ask friends with hot tubs for their suggestions on dealers. Then, just sit back with a cold drink and enjoy.

There are many benefits to purchasing above ground acrylic hot tubs instead of in ground. Visit me at http://besthottubs.net/abovegroundacrylichottubs.php

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4 Tips For Choosing the Best Chlorinator for Your Needs

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Sep.21, 2010

How Chlorinators Work


Chlorinators play an important role in keeping your pool swimmable, but not all chlorinators are created equal. You need to consider the best options for your pool.


1. Brands and issues


Like any appliance, brands do make a difference with chlorinators. The big names are generally easier to maintain, with better parts availability and more service people familiar with their systems. This adds to product life, and you won’t be looking to replace the entire system in a few years because your service people can’t get parts. The “name brand” warranties are also much more reliable.


Self Cleaning – A must-have Self cleaning pool chlorinators are designed to maintain themselves. Self cleaning has replaced the hard, gruesome work of manual cleaning, which actually involved taking the unit apart, usually after a problem had become known. Self cleaners prevent damage to the electrodes, increasing product life.


2. Controls


Modern digital chlorinators are easy to operate. They also provide features like the Output Control to adjust chlorine levels as required. The “Super-Chlorinate” or “Cleaning Mode” allows you to do a regular “spring clean” of the pool with a click of a button. (This should be done once a month to prevent build-up of nasties in the pool.)


3. Chlorinator Capacity


The basic measure of chlorinator performance is “grams per hour”. This is literally a measure of how much chlorine is generated by the chlorinator per hour. Chlorination capacity depends on the size of the unit. Big pools, naturally, need bigger units to provide appropriate chlorination levels. The typical bandwidth performance is 15 to 35g per hour.


So, what determines the power you chlorinator needs to provide:


Pool Volume – Simply, twice the volume of water requires double the chlorine output. Climate – Chlorine produced by the chlorinator starts to break down as soon as it enters the pool. This breakdown is accelerated dramatically by exposure to sunlight and by the water temperature. As a rule of thumb, a pool that is adequately serviced by a 20 gram per hour chlorinator in Melbourne may require a 35 gram per hour unit to achieve the same result in Townsville.


Time of operation – Day or night? Given sunlight breaks down chlorine, running at night achieves better sanitation. Running at night means that chlorine generated will last longer, reach a higher concentration and achieve better overall results. If you plan to run you chlorinator during daylight hours only, your might need to add 20-30% to the power output of your chlorinator.


4. The secret weapon- Your pool cover.


Blocking sunlight is a very cost-efficient way of preserving your chlorine and getting maximum benefits. The pool cover drastically reduces chlorine loss, and ensures efficient chlorination.


Stabilizers save money – Formally known as ‘Cynuric Acid’, stabilizer is a chemical additive which slows down the effect of UV light on chlorine. Just adding stabilizer once a year will help ensure efficient chlorine use. The right pool chlorinator will save you time, money, and above all improve water quality. Take some time to talk to the experts and find the right unit for your pool.

Pool Express is one of the largest online pool stores in Australia. We offer amazing prices on swimming pool equipments and pool supplies. For more information or to view our products, visit Pool Cleaner.

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Keeping Your Pool Clean With the Proper Combination of a Pool Filter and Pumps

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Aug.30, 2010

It is a great thing to have your own pool in your home. However, what is most crucial is the ability to maintain cleanliness and safety in the pool. Though it might be possible to clean it manually when required, you will soon find this task monotonous, difficult and stressful. This is the case especially if cleaning has to be done on a daily basis. Installing pool filter coupled with pool pumps is therefore one of the best solution.


The pumps help in keeping the pool clean as well as keeping off any insects that could otherwise turn the pool to be their breeding ground. The pumps will also ensure that all chemicals have been properly distributed all over the pool.


Choosing the appropriate model can be a hard task. However, you should not let the price prevent you from purchasing a make that properly fits the needs of your pool. This means that you should think about the size of the pool before addressing your concerns on the prices as it is the size that determines the volume of water that can be held by your pool. This influences your filter and pump choice directly.


Purchase pool pumps that will be capable of offering proper water circulation. This will necessitate checking the gallons of water that the pumps you choose can circulate per minute.


Remember to check their size and capacity too. In case you want to compare the price and capability of the pump, then choose by model. Choose a make that preserves energy to enable you save on your monthly bills.


Sometimes its possible to feel pressured by the idea of having to choose the best from the large number of models in the market. In this case your best defense is knowing the exact needs for your pool. Once you are able to do this, make sure that the pump has been correctly installed and the pool filter is perfect for guaranteed services over a long time.


Currently, over ground pool pumps are preferred over the in ground ones. This is mainly because they are more cost effective and they offer similar services to the in ground pool pumps. You are also able to choose the size and shape that suits you best. The best thing about these pumps is that they are fast to install and relocation is easy.


A combination of the right pool filters and over ground pumps is the best solution to your pools cleaning needs. This will also help you conserve energy which means less monthly bills. This will contribute to the long-term maintenance of the pool.

Newpoolpump offers precision therapy infrared sauna with the latest and the best technologies in ceramic heating as well as hemlock wood. Equipments like the pumps and pool filter manufactured with quality workmanship essential for the project at reasonable prices are also offered.

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Adding a Gazebo to a Hot Tub

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Aug.04, 2010

Hot tubs are a place of great fun, but can be uncomfortable to use in mid day when the sun is shining brightly. Hot tubs which reside in an open area of the yard are vulnerable to the sun’s damaging rays. UV light can cause damage not only to the tub itself, but to your skin and eyes. Instead of re-applying sunscreen every few minutes, you might want to consider installing a hot tub gazebo. These gazebos are basically an overhead shade which protects the spa and the occupants within. There is usually enough shade on the sides to cover a set of furniture as well.


Hot tub gazebos come in two general forms- one with closed sides and the other with open ones. The closed gazebos create a protected room which users enter from a front door. The hot tub sits at the center of this room with some space around the sides. Users can set up accessories like seats or even a wall mounted television. Some models have a sun roof and/or windows from which sunlight can enter. Users can install electric light fixtures on the interior to light it up at night.


Open gazebos have sides which are not enclosed, letting a breeze through. Users are protected by the overhead canopy and can exit out of any side. Some models have privacy shields which cover a portion of each side, obscuring the view of prying eyes. Open gazebos work well for people who want to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and communicate freely with people around their yard.


Many of these systems are made from wood because of its beauty. Others are made from metal, plastic or a combination of these materials. Wood is safe to use around chlorine or bromine water because it is sealed with a waterproof coating.

Patrick enjoys relaxing in his spa almost daily. He appreciates the protection that hot tub gazebos can provide, but has not yet invested in one. The use of pool cover pumps is unnecessary because the gazebo prevents water from gathering on the cover.

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What Hot Tub Filters Are Prevalent?

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Jun.26, 2010

Hot tub filters are very important for owners and operators of hot tubs. They can make or break the entire device. However, many people don’t know enough or anything about them. There are three main types of filters.


Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth filters are composed of fine mesh grids coated with diatomaceous earth. The diatomaceous earth is an adhesive that is great for trapping small, even microscopic, particles of dirt that fall into the hot tub’s water. When viewed through the lens of a high-powered microscope, this material looks like a sponge that has thousands of little tiny pores covering its entire surface. A huge advantage of diatomaceous earth is that it is organic. This means that there is no chance of it polluting any part of the earth’s environment. However, many municipalities do have regulations about the proper disposal of diatomaceous earth that should be observed.


Sand
The second main type of filtration system for hot tubs is the sand filter. Sand types are rather self-explanatory. They use sand to filter the water. The sand and gravel within the filter mix with the water that passes through the device to pull out the dirt and other gunk that builds up. The drawback of the sand filtration system is that microscopic particles can slip by without being filtered out of the hot tub. However, this can be remedied by using special products which coagulate around these microscopic particles and enlarge them to the point where they will be caught by the filter. These require replacement every few years and only work with a very specific strand of sand.


Cartridge
The third popular type of filter for spas and hot tubs is the cartridge filter. Cartridge filters are actually the most prevalent Filtration system For spas. Dacron, which is a fine Pleated mesh material, is usually The substance that is used to make the cartridge. The key to the success of these filters is the pleating. These tight folds allow a large amount of filtering material to be contained within a small amount of space. This allows more water to be filtered.


Filters must be maintained. This involves making sure the spa runs for at least one hour per day. Also, a water clarifier should be used at one week intervals to take care of the microscopic particles, unless pH Balance is being employed.


Hot tub filters are very important to the quality of the device. The more a person knows about them, the better their machine will work, and the more fun and relaxation they will enjoy.

Author writes about a variety of topics. If you would like to learn more about Hot tub filters, visit http://www.hottubspasupplies.com/.

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Pool Fun and Fitness Equipments

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Mar.15, 2010

Aqua exercises are similar to the ones done on the ground or the gym, with the added advantage of minimal impact on your joints. So, whether its kicking, jogging or aerobics you can use the pool as your playground or gym and have fun while getting fit. All that you would need to make the most out of these work-out programs are devices that can help you stay afloat.


To incorporate weight training in your aqua exercise program, you may consider investing in hand held wet bells. As the name suggests wet bells are like dumbbells made especially for use in the pool. They get heavier as you push them down in water, making them ideal strength training equipments for a pool work out program.


To add an extra element of fun to your pool time, you can even invest in accessories like game boards and swings.


Game boards designed for pools can float in water, so that you can play a leisurely game of chess or checkers while lounging in your pool chair or float. Some game boards can also double up as floating beverage trays, so that you can use them the way you like.


Pool swings are u-shape chairs with a sling seat. They are not adjustable, i.e. you can’t lie down or recline in them, but at the same time they are far cheaper than their adjustable and more comfortable counterparts like lounge chairs. Pool swings are ideal for use in pool party games like musical chairs etc. If you are fond of hosting pool parties investing in a pool swings would be a great and economical way to make your guests comfortable in the pool.


So, if you have a backyard pool, investing in some cool fitness products makes a lot of sense. After all not only will these products bring good health but also precious moments filled with fun and games for your family and friends.

For purchasing information visit, Pool Floats Delivered ( http://www.poolfloatsdelivered.com/ )

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In Ground Pools

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Mar.14, 2010

Although above ground pools may be less costly to purchase, easier to install, and less costly to operate, the majority of people opt to have in ground pools. In ground pools supply you with a lot more room to swim, and a lot more space. Those of you who’ve families or a lot of friends who enjoy swimming, would greatly benefit from having one of these pools.


In ground pools are lasting, as they are designed with concrete on the sides and along the bottom. They’re a little more expensive than above pools, although they’re more than worth the money you spend. Depending on your needs, you might have your in ground pool built to your liking, such as a shallow end for children and a deep end for diving.


Establishing an in ground pool will take somewhat a longer period than above pools, which usually a small number of hours. To install an in ground pool, the contractor will need to dig a hole in the ground, then arranged the framework outside of the hole. Once this is finished, he will pour some sand in the bottom of the this hole, then set the liner up.


With in ground pools, you’ll have a couple of different types of material that you can select for the liner. The most everyday and preferred is vinyl, which is in addition the most attractive. Vinyl liners are likewise better for winter as well. If you reside in a region that is famous for winter, you may want to go together with a vinyl liner for your pool.


Fiberglass and cement are, in addition excellent liners as well. Fiberglass liners are constructed in a factory from fiberglass reinforced plastic then worked with until it resembles a really large bathtub. Unlike vinyl liners, you won’t need to exchange fiberglass. In the finish, you can save almost all of money and time by using a fiberglass liner.


Cement liners are, in addition great, and are about the most everyday methods to line your in ground swimming pool. If you are utilizing concrete, you can likewise have your pool custom poured, giving you the plan you would like. Concrete lasts for years and years, and like fiberglass liners, it doesn’t need to be replaced. You can likewise raise the look of this liner as well, by employing tile or finishing the concrete liner with plaster.


In ground swimming pools are great for families who enjoy swimming, or those who need to have the biggest swim pool potential. Even supposing they take the majority of time to create and cost almost all of money, they are more than worth it at long last – when you walk outside and see what you have with your own personal eyes.

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Inground Pool Designs Bring The Whole Family Together

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Jan.07, 2010

If you’re looking for a way to increase the enjoyment you get from your home, to find a way to can provide this place to everyone in the family.

spend more quality time with your family, and increase your home’s value all at once, consider adding a pool to your backyard. Good inground pool designs will add richness to your quality of life, making the dollars you put into the purchase of a pool well worth the cost.

Summer tends to be the time of year most families are able to spend the most time together. Children are out of school during the warm months, and parents are able to spend more time out doors. But what do you do to spend that time together? You might be surprised how many families spend their time apart, even if they live in the same home. Finding activities to do together can be frustrating when there are so many diverse individual interests.

A swimming pool is a great thing for both children and adults, and can provide a place where a family can gather and have fun with each other. Having one of these custom swimming pools
You need to begin to consider inground pool designs once you choose to install a swimming pool. You must research the market availability yourself to ensure that you receive an exceptional swimming pool. Since a swimming pool is a long term investment you have to consider what others will think of it if you ever decide to sell your home.

If you are not worried about future buyers, feel free to go wild with your design. The sky is the limit when it comes to pool design. Choose a theme and go with it. Consider the world around you and try to recreate it. For example, a botanical garden, a hot spring, a grotto. Sticking with one theme will make the space more cohesive.

Take into consideration your personal tastes and home design when choosing inground pool designs. For the more natural appeal, choose natural stones that will create a garden type of setting. If you prefer the more modern look, pick angular walls and sleek pavers.

After you have researched your different design plans, be sure to talk with numerous professionals to allow you the best price for installation. If you would like to save some money, you may be able to find materials on your own. There are companies that will add additional costs to the material costs.

If you’re serious about installing a pool for your family, be sure to take your time and consider what you can afford, the look of the design, but above all, be sure to take safety into account before all else. When done correctly, a custom swimming pool can make your family closer, and increase the value of your home.

Increase family together time by adding a pool to your backyard with one of the many inground pool designs available. Often families who live in the same house still spend a lot of their time apart. This is where custom swimming pools come into play. Swimming pools appeal to children and adults alike, and give a family a place to gather and enjoy each other’s company. You should do some in depth homework and research so that you can create a truly extraordinary swimming pool. If you like the idea of a more natural look, consider natural stone surrounds and a garden setting..

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Experience The Difference With Wood Sauna Heaters

Filed Under: Pools & Spas
Jan.06, 2010

The sauna, by definition, is a specially built cabin or insulated room where one can experience both wet and dry sessions of the same. There are smoke sauna, dry sauna, wet sauna, steam sauna, and even those working with infrared waves. It effectively limit all forms of direct radiations such as light, infra red, and electromagnetic. At present there are many types of sauna options that use different types of heat sources like electricity, wood, gas, and unconventional methods like solar power. For enjoying its effect, all you need to do is select a heater that suits your preferences. In short, sauna without heater is just a room!

There are four types of sauna heater, they are gas and oil burning sauna heaters, wood burning sauna heaters, electric sauna heaters, infrared sauna heaters. These heaters play a key role in heating up the air present in any room so that one can sweat horrid toxins and cleanse skin as well. If you are dwelling in country side or can easily get fire wood, then wood sauna heaters are of great preference.

Wood Burning Sauna Heaters come as a perfect choice for any outdoor sauna. It has a combustion chamber where air flow can be well controlled. Faster the wood burns higher is the air flow. When this air flow is controlled, the degree of room temperature is maintained to an extent. In Wood Fired Sauna Heaters, the danger of smoke entering the sauna is reduced, as it is drawn out by a metal smoke pipe, which is installed from its roof. These Wood Sauna Stoves have glass doors and one can easily watch flames while taking sauna. Its installation is much like a wood stove or fireplace. Water jackets and shower plump are included in the option of Portable Wood Sauna Heaters that heat water. The traditional finish sauna heater is same as wood sauna heater. Wood Sauna Heaters are efficient in heating up the sauna faster and burn less amount of wood. It is a right choice for an outdoor installation.

Harvia M3 Wood burning sauna stove is an ideal choice for any place where there is insufficient electricity. This unit provides soothing heat for creating a remarkable atmosphere. It gives a relaxing experience of bath. Harvia M3 sauna stove is an economical, durable and stylish wood burning stove that delivers heat and a well balanced air circulation. It comes in stainless steel finish, metal black color with glass door.

This Harvia M3 Wood burning sauna heater includes an adapter, which converts metric pipe to a standard 6″ pipe size. Order from the vast range of wood sauna heaters now and experience the difference! An amazing sauna experience is waiting for you.

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