Become A Dealer Get An Estimate 877-929-(7665)

Category: Pool Maintenance

Are Fiberglass Pools Easier to Maintain?

Posted on by kristin

 

A swimming pool can be a great addition to your home and life. An inground pool can increase your property value and home enjoyment, keep you cool in the hot weather, and provide a gentler way to exercise and be healthier. That said, when considering a pool purchase, homeowners often want to know how much time and money they will need to invest. And among the most common questions is, “Are fiberglass pools easier to maintain?” The truth is that all pool types have their advantages and disadvantages, and all require regular maintenance. 

Fiberglass Pool Maintenance

Are Fiberglass Pools Easy to Maintain?

While they’re not maintenance-free, fiberglass pools are generally considered to be lower maintenance as far as inground pools go. Because fiberglass pools come in one piece, there are no seams where dirt and algae can collect. Their smooth surface is not porous, so it’s not likely to promote the growth of algae and bacteria. Other pool types may require resurfacing or liner replacements over time, whereas fiberglass can last a long time with regular upkeep. 

What Maintenance Does a Fiberglass Pool Need?

Fiberglass pools are relatively easy and inexpensive to keep in good shape. Fiberglass pools generally do not need to be fully resurfaced after so many years. With some basic maintenance, your fiberglass pool’s gel coat can last for a long time. 

Maintenance for fiberglass pools consists of three basic components: the filtration system, the pool’s water chemistry, and some basic manual cleaning tools.

Filtration – Your pool’s filtration system likely consists of a filter, skimmer basket, and strainer pot. You’ll need to empty and clean all of these at regular intervals.

Pool Water Chemistry – One of the most important regular maintenance tasks is to check your pool’s chemicals. Balanced water chemistry is important for avoiding corrosion, scaling, and staining, and for extending the life of your pool. Test strips are the least accurate way to test your water. A Taylor test kit is preferred or use a digital testing device to check your pool’s levels every so often. We recommend referring to your pool’s owner’s manual for water chemistry levels best suited for your fiberglass pool shell.

Cleaning Tools – As with any swimming pool, some basic cleaning tasks can keep your fiberglass pool free from dirt and debris. Skim, brush and vacuum the pool regularly to keep it clean. Use a skimmer net to catch leaves, grass, and other debris that land in your pool. Use a pool brush to gently clean any dirt that may collect on the bottom or sides of your pool. Be sure not to use any abrasive tools as they can damage the gel coat surface.

 

Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Pools

Fiberglass pools are among the most popular options available today, and for good reason. There are many benefits of fiberglass swimming pools. However, they’re not necessarily the right choice for everyone. Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of fiberglass pools and their alternatives.

Advantages of Fiberglass Pools

Durability – One of the top reasons people choose fiberglass is durability. Fiberglass is strong and flexible, making it especially resistant to damage. Fiberglass is so sturdy that it can withstand the elements for quite some time without resurfacing if properly maintained.

Maintenance – Fiberglass swimming pools are lower maintenance compared to other types of pools. This means lower maintenance costs and more time enjoying your pool.

Built-in Features – Depending on the design, fiberglass pool shells come with built-in features such as tanning ledges, swim-outs, wrap-around benches, and more, whereas these features are often extras with other pool types. 

Smooth Surface – Fiberglass pools have a non-skid, smooth surface which is not only attractive and comfortable to the touch, but also doesn’t promote algae growth.

Quicker Installation – Because fiberglass pools are prefabricated, they can often be installed more quickly and easily than other inground pool options.

Disadvantages of Fiberglass Pools

Cost – Fiberglass pools are an investment. They’re typically not the cheapest option but can save you money on maintenance costs in the long run.

Limited Design Options – While you’ll have plenty of sizes and shapes to choose from, fiberglass pools can’t be customized because they are built from prefabricated molds.

Potential Installation Issues – When installing a fiberglass pool, you want to make sure you hire a professional company experienced with fiberglass swimming pools. If your pool isn’t installed and backfilled correctly, it can lead to damages and expensive repairs in the future.

 

beautiful fiberglass poolHow Long Do Fiberglass Pools Last?

While fiberglass pools can involve more upfront costs to install, they also tend to last a very long time. With proper care and upkeep, a fiberglass pool can last many, many years.

How Long Does a Fiberglass Pool Gel Coat Last?

A fiberglass pool gel coat can last a long time without needing to be replaced. However, it’s worth noting that not all pools and gel coats are created equal. If your pool was improperly installed, or finished with an inferior gel coating, or not maintained per the manufacturers requirements it may deteriorate more quickly.

 

A Final Word

All pools require proper maintenance to maintain their original appearance. It is generally accepted that fiberglass pools require less maintenance time and expense than other pool types. If you are considering a fiberglass pool, check out some designs to see if the fiberglass lifestyle is for you.

Do You Need to Brush a Fiberglass Pool?

Posted on by kristin

Fiberglass pools are incredibly popular for good reasons. They are durable and elegant and can make a beautiful backdrop for many memorable moments in your life. But, like most luxury items worth having, they need maintenance to stay that way. Upkeep for your fiberglass pool includes water and surface cleaning. With reference to surface cleaning, homeowners commonly ask, “do you need to brush a fiberglass pool?” This post covers common questions about using a brush to clean your fiberglass pool surface.

The Maintenance Rundown

Like any pool, fiberglass pools have several essential maintenance tasks that need to be performed on a regular basis in order to keep them clean, safe, and functioning properly. The good news is that thanks to the way they’re made, fiberglass pools can be easier to take care of than other inground pool types. Like said other pool types, they will require brushing, but the brushing is generally light work.  

Why Do You Brush a Fiberglass Pool?

While fiberglass pools are algae-resistant, dirt and debris may be a daily occurrence when your pool is surrounded by vegetation. Left alone, unwanted debris (especially if it contains metal) in your pool can result in staining, so it’s essential to attend to those items immediately. Additionally, after adding chemicals to your pool, brushing helps the chemicals dissolve.

How Often Should You Brush a Fiberglass Pool?

The frequency with which you’ll need to clean your pool’s surface will depend on how much dirt and debris get in your pool, whether you use the pool on a daily basis, and whether you have a pool cover. If you don’t see dirt and debris, you should still give it a ten-minute brushing once or twice per week to prevent any chemical buildup.

What Kind of Brush Do You Use for a Fiberglass Pool?

As opposed to the hard scrubbing you would give to a pool with a porous surface, fiberglass pools require a gentler touch to avoid scratching the gelcoat. The only type of brush you should use is one with poly or nylon bristles. You should also consider your pool’s shape when choosing a brush for a fiberglass pool. If your pool is rectangular, choose a flat, rectangular brush to get into the corners. If your pool is freeform, choose a brush with a curved head.

How Do You Brush a Fiberglass Pool?

Push the brush over the entire pool surface, including the walls and floor, working your way down and over to the main drain. Sweeping toward the main drain will allow as much debris as possible to enter the filter. Depending on the amount of dirt and debris, you may want to backwash (or clean) your filter.

Do You Brush a Pool Before Vacuuming?  

Yes, but don’t brush your fiberglass pool directly before vacuuming. Brushing the pool kicks up the dirt that was stuck to the surface, causing it to float in the water. You want to wait to vacuum until after the particles have either gone through the filter or settled to the bottom. 

Summing It Up

You do need to brush your fiberglass pool as part of your fiberglass pool maintenance routine. Brushing is one of the most important ways you can keep your fiberglass pool’s surface beautiful, and it isn’t very time consuming. Protect your investment and a future of memories by properly maintaining your fiberglass pool.

How To Close An Inground Pool

Posted on by krista

For some, it’s a season of denial, but when that first multi-hued leaf hits the water, it’s hard to ignore the reality that it’s fast becoming time to close the pool. If you’re in a temperate climate, you’ll want to winterize your pool to set yourself up for continued enjoyment when the weather is warmer. Whether closing an above-ground pool or an inground pool, many of the same principles apply. However, your regimen and costs may vary if you are closing a vinyl or gunite inground pool. For a more in-depth comparison of fiberglass vs vinyl vs gunite, download our free eBook. In this post, we will cover how to close an inground pool that is fiberglass. 

STEPS TO AN INGROUND FIBERGLASS POOL CLOSING

    1. Set a date. Get it on your calendar, and if you need to get on the schedule for pool service, it’s wise to make an appointment as early as possible before the time slots fill up.
    2. Balance your water chemistry. Even if you’ve hired a pool service company, there are likely tasks you should perform in advance. One is making sure you’ve established proper water chemistry. That includes checking and balancing for alkalinity, pH, free chlorine, calcium hardness, salt, stabilizer, metals, and dissolved solids. Note: the “eyeball test” will not cut it. Water that is pristine in appearance can still be harmful or out of balance. That’s why we test. Keep in mind that balance also refers to the neutrality of the water, meaning you don’t want water that is too acidic (can cause corrosion) or too basic (can cause scaling/deposit buildup). Your Thursday Pools Owner’s Manual is a great resource for recommended water chemistry levels.
      NOTE: do not treat your fiberglass pool with calcium hypochlorite because the percent of free chlorine is so high that it can damage the pool surface.
    3. Wipe down the scum line. Otherwise known as the “water line” or “tile line,” the “scum line” is a result of body oils, lotions, and environmental contaminants that float on the surface of pools and leave a mark that is usually harmless but doesn’t look good. This blemish could become a bigger problem if left unattended. Note: Be gentle. Use a light touch with a wiping cloth or brush – don’t scrape – to preserve the gel coat of your pool.
    4. Clean. Give your pool a final skim, vacuum, clean the filter baskets, and backwash the filter before the pool service company arrives. (The General gave us a good primer on backwashing and the ins and outs of a sand filter)
    5. Add winterizing chemicals. Add the final chemicals in your winterizing process the day before your service company arrives, allowing time for the chemicals to take effect before their arrival. If your water is properly balanced, no additional chlorine is necessary. With no swimmer use and cooler water temperatures, chlorine demand over the winter months remains very low. 
    6. Tidy up. We’ve talked mostly about chemicals up to this point. Organize and store those chemicals tightly and securely in a well-ventilated space, with special care not to place caustic chemicals too close to each other. In addition, tidy up your pool accessories, toys, and furniture. This could include pulling out ladders, diving boards, and other fixtures and checking them for wear and tear. If you have a secured or immovable element, like a slide, it’s a good idea to give it a protective wax that will set it up for continued use in the spring.
    7. Cover it. We recommend automatic pool covers for safety, security, and pool hygiene. If you get an automatic pool cover, you will be pleased with its contribution to a quality pool closing.

FAQ. A lot of new customers ask, “Should I drain my inground pool for the winter?” The answer is absolutely not. You risk structural damage if you drain your pool of water. Professional pool installers take great care to reduce the abundance of hydrostatic pressure from groundwater, but it is always there, and water in the pool counterbalances that external pressure. Recent technological innovations can lessen the impact of groundwater. 

If you must remove some water from your pool or if water is captured on top of your pool cover, drain it away from the deck, and be careful to leave water in the pool above the skimmer level. If you absolutely must drain the water completely from your pool, please consult with a professional. That can protect you against voiding your warranty. 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CLOSE A POOL? 

The cost of closing a pool will vary based on your area, but a national average is around $250. For reference, here are monthly cost estimates of pool chemicals: 

  • pH increaser/decreaser $10/mo
  • Calcium hardness increaser $20/mo
  • Stabilizer (cyanuric acid) $15/mo
  • Sanitizer (chlorine) $20/mo
  • Shock $80/mo
  • Algaecide $12/mo 

As previously mentioned, the costs will vary based on your geography, your commitment to regular maintenance, your vigilant use of a pool cover, and other factors. If you’re still pondering questions like “how much shock will I need for my pool?”, we have a guide that provides some size/cost ratios on the most used chemicals. 

BOTTOM LINE 

Winterizing or closing your pool for the season is part of a disciplined approach to pool ownership. The season, and a period of disuse, can have negative consequences for your pool. By keeping a regular maintenance schedule all year long and giving special attention to a proper seasonal closing, you can keep your inground fiberglass pool in good shape for many years to come. 

Do It Yourself Inground Pool

Posted on by krista

DIY Inground PoolFew things can make a backyard better than having your own fiberglass swimming pool – it’s a dream many people have had since they were kids! Taking steps towards getting an inground pool can be an exciting experience, but can be quite an investment: this sometimes leads to people cutting costs where they can by attempting to install the pool themselves. 

Is it possible to build your own inground swimming pool? 

The short answer is yes, it is possible to build your own inground swimming pool. With the demand for inground pools surging, many people believe they will save money and get their fiberglass pool installed faster if they opt to do a do-it-yourself inground pool installation to avoid the wait lists. Still, the reality is that installing a pool by yourself or with the help of friends can be dangerous, cause issues with your pool and be more expensive when all is said and done.

Are inground pool kits worth it?

The initial cost of inground pool kits can save you money right off the bat, but in the long run you might end up spending a lot more money and experience more delays or setbacks than you would if you left it up to an experienced professional. 

 

Here are some of the cons of installing a DIY pool: 

  • No warranty

    • Having a warranty on your fiberglass pool is extremely important. If an independent dealer does not install your pool, then there is no warranty! If anything goes wrong with your pool it will not be covered, and the manufacturer will not be able to help fix the issues, which can cause a financial burden. When a pool is installed by a dealer and warranted, the burden of paying for sudden and expensive repairs is lifted off your shoulders.

  • Expensive installation

    • A typical homeowner will not already have the equipment needed to install a pool, which means you will have to purchase or rent the equipment yourself. This equipment can be expensive and not easy to find. Knowing which equipment to get and having the resources to obtain them is extremely important. Without the proper equipment – you cannot correctly install the fiberglass pool.

  • No access to proper materials

    • When installing a pool, you will need access to the correct stone material, be able to get it to your house, and know how much to use. If you use the wrong type of stone or not enough of it, this will cause your fiberglass pool to be unstable, leading to movement, leaks, cracks, and not being correctly backfilled.

  • Heavy lifting

    • We have all seen the disastrous YouTube videos of pools being lifted and then crashing into the homeowner’s house – you don’t want to be this person! The materials needed to install a pool can be heavy and hard to transport. Stone material and the fiberglass pool shell need to be appropriately delivered with the proper equipment capable of picking up and moving the pool with the correct straps. If not – your pool could be dropped and cracked before it even gets put in, and that’s on you!

  • Not having the proper education on pool equipment

    • Selecting the right pool equipment can be overwhelming because there are many options. When going through a dealer to install your fiberglass pool, the dealer will ensure that you have the correct equipment to work well together for your pool, pump, filter, water sanitation system, and heater. If this equipment is improperly sized or not compatible with your size and type of pool – leaks can happen, and pipes can crack. Additionally, many equipment manufacturers only provide a limited warranty when bought off the shelf and installed by yourself. Dealers may offer extended warranty plans when the manufacturer or retailer installs this equipment. If it breaks and is not warranted, it will be expensive to replace.

  • Knowledge of where to place skimmer, returns, and lights for maximum efficiency

    • Installing your lights, skimmer®, and returns at the wrong height or location can cause poor water circulation and lousy water chemistry, which ultimately causes poor water health.

  • Pool not placed correctly

    • Putting a pool in your yard requires more than just digging a hole and dropping the pool shell inside it. The layout and hole need to be the proper slope and depth. An uneven yard can cause the fiberglass pool to not be parallel to the house, out of level, and not adequately connected to the base material. This can cause bulges and the presence of groundwater under the pool. When installing a fiberglass pool in your yard, there are things a typical homeowner wouldn’t take into account. A professional with years of experience will take into account drainage, easements, access and sunshine!

  • It’s dangerous

    • If you install a fiberglass pool yourself, it’s very possible you may not get the correct permits. This is extremely dangerous and can cause you to get electrocuted when using your pool, even causing death at high levels of electrocution. A dealer will ensure your fiberglass pool and equipment is bonded in a way that will prevent the transmission of any harmful electrical voltage to pool equipment, people, and pets.

  • Concrete

    • Pouring concrete around a fiberglass pool is trickier than regular flatwork. Inexperienced concrete contractors can set the concrete too close to the pool wall with their equipment, causing the pool walls to move if not done correctly. Concrete can also get into the pool, which is a nightmare to clean! Overall, this leaves an undesirable finish.

  • Can take longer than expected

    • Fiberglass pools are the quickest type of pool to install, but typically this is only the case when a professional is installing the pool. If you are installing it yourself, you may run into delays and roadblocks along the way. Additionally, it would be best to consider that you will most likely be doing this as a side project on the weekends while still working your regular job throughout the week, making the project take longer.

 

The bottom line:

Go through a dealer! An independent dealer will ensure that your fiberglass pool is installed correctly and your manufacturer’s warranty will remain intact. Additionally, most pool builders provide their own workmanship warranty over the entire project. Our dealers have formed relationships with professionals that can perform the specific tasks you need to install a pool, ensuring that you will be relaxing in your pool stress-free in no time. 

Find a dealer closest to you! 

If you’d like to spend some more time planning your budget first, our inground pool cost estimator tool can give you a ballpark estimate on your project based on your needs!

Fiberglass Pool Maintenance

Posted on by cargo

A pool is not a “set it and forget it” affair, so some basic knowledge of maintenance and cleaning is essential to its long-term enjoyment. And fiberglass pool maintenance isn’t as hard as you may think. In fact, it’s rather easy if you follow the instructions of your dealer and read the manuals that accompany your pool filter equipment, pool chemistry kit and vacuum. In this post, we’ll explore the basics of maintaining a fiberglass pool.

Your Fiberglass Pool: Much more than a shell holding water

First things first. Give yourself a pat on the back for having made the choice of fiberglass. Not only does it look great, but it’s going to be a little easier to vacuum and maintain a fiberglass pool. It’s not maintenance-free, but it is one of the lower-maintenance pool options. If you’re in a seasonal/temperate location, you might think of pool maintenance in terms of opening, closing, and ongoing maintenance. They’re all equally important to the enjoyment and long-term integrity of your pool.

The amount of fiberglass pool maintenance you do may ebb and flow with the seasons and use, but you can make that maintenance schedule predictable by being consistent and detailed in your approach. As a starting place, it’s good to familiarize yourself with the attached or connected components of your pool, understand the basic tools involved in the maintenance of your fiberglass pool and filtration system, know the pool chemistry, and learn the ins and outs of pool vacuuming.

The Equipment

Take a moment to know the location of these three items:

  1. The Skimmer. This is the open “window” on your pool wall right about the water level. Your pool water will circulate (slowly, imperceptibly) toward the skimmer, and some of the larger surface particles will be removed before they have a chance to go to the bottom. A basket, usually accessible from a small cover on the deck, captures leaves and other floating items. It should be checked as a regular part of your fiberglass pool maintenance plan.
  2. The Strainer Pot. The strainer pot can be found at the front of your pump. It’s also a basket system and protects the impeller and pump. The strainer pot collects debris picked up by the vacuum if you are using a common suction side vacuum.
  3. The Filter. It’s what catches all the little stuff, like sand or tanning oil, that has moved past the skimmer basket or strainer pot. The filter should be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Also, make sure you have these tools in your fiberglass pool maintenance arsenal:

  1. A Brush. Or brushes. One nice thing about fiberglass is its resistance to algae, but occasionally you might encounter debris of some sort on the pool wall. With the brush, you can usually just scrub it off with a quick stroke or two.
  2. The Skimmer Net. This is different from the skimmer that’s in your pool. Here, we are talking about the telescoping pole with a semi-taut net on the end. This is for the manual removal of surface-level debris like leaves, bugs, and flower petals (or whatever else may have blown into the pool).
  3. The Vacuum Head and Hose. This is the most common method for thorough cleaning/clearing of debris from the pool bottom and sides. The vacuum head has wheels, a connector for a telescoping pole, and a location to hook up to the suction hose.

 

A Word on Pool Chemistry

It’s important to note that proper pool chemistry will positively affect your fiberglass pool maintenance regimen. No matter how easy to maintain and environmentally friendly the pool is, a pool with water that is unbalanced is likely to create corrosion, scaling, or staining. Therefore, testing is essential. From simplest to most technical, testing usually comes in three flavors: (1) test strips, (2) liquid reagent kits, and (3) a digital water testing device. With these kits, you’ll be testing alkalinity, pH, and dissolved solids. The key regardless of which testing device you use, is getting to know your pool and getting to know the acceptable levels of alkalinity, pH, and dissolved solids. 

How big is my pool?

When you’re adding chemicals to your pool, you will have to do a little math. It’s helpful to know the volume of water in your pool to get the balance right. If you don’t know, here is the equation to calculate: length x width x depth x 7.5 (7.5 is the number of gallons in a cubic foot). 

Vacuuming the Pool

Ok. You have the equipment. You’re taking care of the water. Now, what about vacuuming? It’s relatively easy. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Unlock and lift the skimmer basket out.
  2. Connect the swiveling end of the hose to the vacuum head and connect the vacuum head to your telescoping pole.
  3. Prime the unraveled hose by letting it out into the pool to fill it with water (pool pumps don’t like air).
  4. Dunk the open end of the hose into the water to completely fill the hose and keep it primed. Navigate it through the skimmer window to the connector in the skimmer–a few feet away, accessible from the deck.

From there, just take care to keep the vacuum underwater. When it comes time to disconnect, follow the reverse order of operations, making sure to empty the hose of water and replace the skimmer basket. Lastly, you’ll want to check the strainer pot near your pump and filtration system for debris. This is where your vacuumed items are going. Shut off the pump and turn back the valves in this process.

We’ve discussed only “suction side” vacuums in this post. They are the most common, but not the only option. There are also “pressure side” vacuums–good for finer debris–which suck up debris into a bag or basket. And there are robotic vacuums that have their own motor and pump built-in. Robotic vacuums are more expensive, but they can be more efficient and will not require the use of the pool’s pump and suction equipment. 

As always, we advise you to follow any and all manufacturer’s recommendations and ask your dealer if you have any questions about fiberglass pool maintenance.

How much does it cost to resurface your pool?

Posted on by krista

If you’ve landed here, chances are you already have an inground pool and you are debating whether to get a new pool or to resurface your pool. Like many questions in life, the answer to “how much does it cost to resurface your pool?” is – “it depends.” Let’s break it down by pool type.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass has taken off as the material of choice for builders and homeowners in the know, with its market share more than doubling in the early 2000s. A number of factors account for the popularity of fiberglass including the development of better fiberglass manufacturing processes and the incorporation of attractive pool features like tanning ledges and built-in steps. (Warning: adorable puppy featured at article mentioned in the link above.)

The gel coat and structure of fiberglass are incredibly durable. A fiberglass pool may last as many as 35-50 years without a need for resurfacing – in other words, it can stay in beautiful working order for as long as you are in your home. Fiberglass is not maintenance-free, but it is the lowest maintenance. An added benefit, fiberglass pools are the most environmentally friendly pools.

However, if you should need to resurface your fiberglass pool, you have a couple of options. One is thermoplastic coating. Thermoplastic coating takes just a few days and you can fill the pool right away. It has color match capability and can work for fiberglass and concrete pools. The cost, depending on pool size, can range from $10,000 to $15,000.

The other option for resurfacing your fiberglass pool is epoxy paint. Epoxy paint is relatively simple – it can even be done DIY – and it can deliver a quality look for both concrete and fiberglass. On the minus side of the ledger, it can only work on bare surfaces, might only last as little as five years, and requires around two weeks to cure. On the plus side, it can be done between $2,500-$3,000.

Gunite

Gunite, or concrete, requires the most resources for maintenance. Chemical usage, surface care, and electrical load are the regular maintenance requirements that sit at the high end for inground pools. Gunite pools need to be resurfaced as soon as five to seven years depending on your climate, maintenance regimen, and water quality. The surface is extremely sensitive to algae and the need for chemical use is high.

You may be able to get away with a relatively inexpensive epoxy paint option – if there is no paint on the surface. If not, you probably need to go the route of pool tile, aggregate, or pool plaster. These options can land in the $15,000-$25,000 range with tile generally being the highest cost. Some homeowners are choosing to replace their older gunite pool.

 Vinyl

Vinyl liners are more prone to tearing, which is something to watch closely if you have pets. The seams welcome algae. And liners need to be replaced, typically, every seven to nine years at a cost ranging from $3,500 to $5,500 each time. With a rip, you may be able to patch at a cost of a few hundred dollars. If the presence of algae becomes a problem, you may need to enlist the support of a professional pool cleaner.

This chart gives you an at-a-glance comparison of the maintenance involved with these three choices of pool manufacture.

 

 

Feeling Fiberglass?

Are you leaning toward fiberglass as a replacement or new pool?  If you want to dive even deeper into the comparisons, request a download of our eBook that does just that. The eBook covers not only the question of how much it costs to resurface your pool, but also compares factors like installation time, warranties, available features and environmental impact. Lastly, if you just want to talk to someone about how much it costs to resurface your pool, don’t hesitate to contact us or connect with a dealer in your area.

Ask the General: What is a Pool Heat Pump and How Does it Work?

Posted on by krista

Dear General, 

I have a question about how to heat our new pool. We want to keep our pool maintenance costs as low as we can, but it’s important for us to be able to swim as much as possible during the year, so we want it to be warm! A couple of my friends with inground pools have gas heaters, but several people have told me I should consider a pool heat pump. I’m not sure how either of them work. What’s my best option?

pool heat pump

-Chilling in Charleston 

 

Dear Charleston, 

Thanks for the great question! You’re not the only person who’s feeling a little fuzzy on this topic. Let’s first take a look at the difference between how these two types of pool heating systems work.   

The difference between a pool heater and a pool heat pump

  • Traditional pool heaters use either propane or natural gas to generate heat. They do so by burning the fuel inside a combustion chamber. The pool water is drawn through the heater in copper coils, which warm it. Then, that warm water is returned to the pool. You can set the thermostat to whatever temperature you desire, and the heater will bring your water up to that temp pretty quickly. 
  • Heat pumps (also known as electric pool heaters) are, as they say, a whole ‘nother talk show. The big difference is that they don’t actually generate heat on their own. Instead, they pull ambient heat from the air around your pool and use that heat to warm your pool water. 

How does a pool heat pump work?

Next, let’s look more in depth into how heat pumps work. The following information is taken from the National Pool and Spa Institute’s technology class:

  1. Thermostat. First, you’ll set the thermostat on your heat pump to your desired water temperature. Then, it gets to work. 
  2. Fan assembly. The fan assembly starts the process by pulling warm, outside air into the evaporator coil.
  3. Evaporator coil. Liquid refrigerant inside the evaporator coil gathers heat from the warm air and transforms it into gas. 
  4. Compressor. The warm gas in the evaporator coil is then pulled back into the compressor, which increases the heat. 
  5. Heat exchanger. This heated gas then passes through the heat exchanger condenser. 
  6. Pool pump. While all this is happening, your pool pump is busy circulating your cool pool water, so it will eventually pass through your heat pump’s heat exchanger. 
  7. The magic happens. As the heated gas and your pool water pass through the heat exchanger at the same time, the gas transfers its heat to the water. That nice, warm water flows back into your pool, the hot gas returns to liquid form and goes back to the evaporator, where the whole process starts over again. pool heat pump

Is it a lot of work to have a pool heat pump?

When purchasing any pool equipment, you of course want to know how much work it will be for you to maintain and if it’s safe for your family. Fortunately, all you’ll need to do to maintain your heat pump is keep the surrounding area clear, the water flow normal, and chemical levels correct. The following features of a heat pump make them essentially hassle and worry-free for pool owners:

  • Pressure switch. Just like other types of heaters, heat pumps have a pressure switch that allows the heat pump to run only with the correct amount of water flow. This ensures that heat will be removed by enough water inside the heat exchanger to prevent overheating and damage to the unit.
  • Low-ambient switch. This switch allows the heat pump to run only when the surrounding air temperature is high enough to prevent damage to the compressor. Wet bulb controllers allow the heat pump to run in temperatures as low as 30 degrees. However most units are factory-set to only let the unit operate at 45 degrees or higher.
  • Refrigerant low-pressure switch. This control prevents compressor damage from loss of refrigerant. Since refrigerant temperature and pressure are related, this switch also backs up the low-ambient switch to prevent the unit from running too cold.
  • Refrigerant high-pressure switch.  This control protects the compressor from operating with too-high refrigerant pressure, which would contain too much heat. It also backs up the water pressure switch, which in turn prevents the unit from overheating.
  • Built-in water bypass. Some heat pumps also have a built-in water bypass feature, which prevents too much water from entering the heat exchanger, which could cause excessive wear on the metal and shorten the life of the heat pump.
  • Time delay. This control prevents the restart of the heat pump after electrical power has been interrupted. Time delays are set for 3 to 10 minutes. The time delay is necessary for the refrigerant pressure to equalize from high side to low side.

Is a pool heat pump the right choice for you? 

It depends. Obviously, if the ambient air isn’t warm (at least 50 degrees,) there’s no heat source for your heat pump, and your pool water won’t warm up. Since you live in Charleston, where it’s typically pretty warm year ‘round, it’s probably a good choice for you, and will help you reduce your pool operating costs. Folks who live in cooler climates are probably better off with a traditional gas-powered heater. 

Tips to keep the most from your pool heating system

  1. Set it and forget it. If you want to reduce your pool operating costs, it’s better to maintain the water temperature at or near your desired temperature, regardless of what kind of pool heating system you have. Find your desired temperature and leave the thermostat alone. If you turn it off, and the night gets cool, it can take several days to get your water back to the temperature you want. 
  2. Get an automatic pool cover. I’ve written articles about automatic pool covers before. I’m a big fan. While fiberglass pools are actually the best type of pool for retaining heat, a pool cover will do even more. Not only will it help keep that precious heat inside the pool, it will also keep debris, kids and critters out. 

So, there you go, my friend … Everything I can think of to tell you about heat pumps, all in one place. Best wishes to you and your family on your new fiberglass pool. You’re going to love it.

Until next time… 

-The General

Who is The General? 

The man, the myth, the legend….we just call him The General. His organized, systematic approach to pool installations over the years had his crew members calling him “The General” and it stuck. The General has over 30 years’ experience in the pool and spa industry, working for one of Pool and Spa News’ “Top 50 Pool Builders.” 

 

Over that time, he designed, sold, project-managed and installed over a thousand inground swimming pools. As a pool owner himself, he’s the perfect authority to give you the inside scoop, with amazing tips and tricks to make pool ownership a breeze! 

Ask the General: What’s the Lowdown on Pool Cleaning Systems?

Posted on by krista

A look at in-floor pool cleaning systems and robotic pool cleaners. 

Dear General:

Is there such a thing as a “self-cleaning pool”? I’ve heard neighbors talking about in-floor pool cleaning systems, and they claim their pools “clean themselves.” Another one of my friends with a gunite pool has a robotic pool cleaner. I’m not sure I understand the difference between the two, or which is the best choice for us. We’re planning to get a fiberglass pool. Can you shed some light on this topic for me? I’m definitely interested in spending as little time cleaning and as much time swimming as I can. 

Signed- Lazy in Lexington, Kentucky

Dear Lazy:

This is a great question. First of all, wanting to spend as much time as possible enjoying your inground pool instead of inground fiberglass poolsmaintaining it isn’t lazy. It’s smart. 

You’re taking a great first step by choosing a fiberglass pool. They’re by far the lowest maintenance pools around, and there’s no single, best choice for everyone when it comes to choosing a system. So, let’s take a closer look at robotic pool cleaners and in-floor pool cleaning systems, considering the merits and drawbacks of each. 

What is a robotic pool cleaner? 

A robotic pool cleaner is like a Roomba for your pool. You plug it in, drop it in the pool and it moves around, gobbling up dirt and debris. They’re certainly a great alternative to hauling out the telescoping poles and pumps of traditional pool vacuuming systems. 

Here are some things you should know about robotic pool cleaners:

  • Get the right brushes for your pool type. Fiberglass pool owners and those who have tiled pool walls need to make sure they choose a model that has a soft, super grip PVA brush. If your pool is gunite all around, the rubber brush models will work just fine. 
  • Get enough cable for the length of your inground pool. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you have to consider the fact that your power supply is most likely at least 12 feet from your pool’s edge. Your robotic cleaner will need to be able to easily reach to the deepest, farthest end of your pool to avoid having to unplug it and move it to the other end. 
  • Get the right features for your pool type. The most basic robotic cleaners will just vacuum your pool’s floor. The top-of-the-line models have power-washing jets and can also scrub the walls and water line. They’ll be able to get into the nooks and crannies of built-in steps and other pool features. Also, look for a system that has high suction power (at least 70 gallons per minute) and the lowest micron value available (2 microns is great because lower micron values give you the best filtration). 

What is an in-floor pool cleaning system? 

In-floor pool cleaning systems are comprised of pop-up heads scattered throughout the pool floor, as well as on benches, steps and walls. They’re flush with the pool surface when they’re not in action, and they work in groups, popping up and spraying pressurized water that moves dirt and debris towards the main drain. The pop-up heads also rotate to get at the dirt from various angles. You’re able to set the speeds and length of activation times based on your pool pro’s recommendations and how much cleaning your pool needs. 

Here are some things you should know about in-floor pool cleaning systems:

  • They must be installed with your pool. Because in-floor cleaning systems are integrated into your pool floor, they must be installed at the time your pool goes in. 
  • They’re compatible with any inground pool type. Whether you’re planning to install a vinyl liner, gunite or fiberglass pool, in-floor pool cleaning systems will be compatible with your pool project. However, because gunite pools have a rougher surface, you’ll need a lot more pop-up heads than you would with a smoother pool surface like vinyl or fiberglass. 
  • You’ll still have some maintenance to do. As the name “in-floor”implies, these systems are mainly just cleaning the bottom of your pool. This is great for warding off stains that can occur from debris sitting on the floor of your pool for too long, but you’ll still want to skim the pool for surface and floating debris. 

Comparing robotic cleaners to in-floor pool cleaning systems

  • Cost. There’s a big cost difference between these two types of pool maintenance systems. Robotic cleaning systems start out around $400 and can go as high as a little over $1000. In-floor pool cleaning systems start out around $5000 and can go as high as $10,000, depending on the size and shape of your pool. 
  • Automation. Robotic cleaners are not fully automatic. You’ll need to put them in the water, take them out of the water, move them around and clean them out. In-floor pool cleaning systems are fully automated. Regardless of which system you choose, you’ll still have to stick to your pool maintenance schedule, perform regular water testing and add chemicals.
  • Noise level. You’ll always know when your robotic cleaning system is running (they’re not exactly ninjas), while in-floor pool cleaning systems are, for the most part, silent. 
  • Energy efficiency. If you run your robotic cleaning system longer than it needs to be run, you might end up using more energy than you would with an automated in-pool cleaning system that does its job and shuts itself off. In-floor pool cleaning systems also help circulate the pool water, which means it’s circulating heat at the same time, which can reduce your pool operating costs. 

To sum it up

So, there’s my two cents on pool cleaning systems. No matter what type of pool cleaning system you choose, you’re going to love having a great quality fiberglass pool. With a pool design for every personality, you’ll have  fun with friends and family and improve the resale value of your home. Happy swimming! 

Until next time, 

The General 

 

Who is The General? 

The man, the myth, the legend….we just call him The General. His organized, systematic approach to pool installations over the years had his crew members calling him “The General” and it stuck. The General has over 30 years’ experience in the pool and spa industry, working for one of Pool and Spa News’ “Top 50 Pool Builders.” 

 

Over that time, he designed, sold, project-managed and installed over a thousand inground swimming pools. As a pool owner himself, he’s the perfect authority to give you the inside scoop, with amazing tips and tricks to make pool ownership a breeze! 

Ask the General: How Do I Troubleshoot the Heater and Chlorinator on My Fiberglass Pool?

Posted on by krista

Some pool troubleshooting tips to try before you call in the pros. 

Dear General- 

We are fiberglass pool owner newbies. We love it, but we did have to call an inground pool service pro a couple of times—once for our heater and another time for our chlorinator. Both times, it turned out to be a fairly simple fix and we wished we had tried to troubleshoot the problem ourselves before we called. Do you have some pool troubleshooting tips to share? 

Signed- Newbies in New Orleans

Dear Newbies- 

inground fiberglass poolsOf course, I’m happy to share pool troubleshooting tips, especially for new pool owners. You didn’t say what kind of heater or filtration system you use, so I’m just going to go with one of the most common combinations: a gas heater with a sand filter and a chlorine-sanitized system.

Let’s start with the heater.

  • Do a visual inspection. Your first pool troubleshooting step is simply taking a look at the unit. You’re looking for leaks, rust or burn marks. Any of these visual clues most likely mean trouble inside the unit, and you probably need to bring in a pool maintenance pro to check it out. 
  • Clean it off. You should be regularly cleaning debris off of the heater top and inside of the cabinet. Leaves and other matter can really gunk up the works, so this is an easy way to avoid trouble before it starts. If you haven’t done this, you may find that debris is hindering your heater’s operation, so clean it up and see if that helps. 
  • Check the gas and water pressure. If the gas valve isn’t fully open, your heater will not fire. The same is true if there’s not enough water flowing through the heater, so make sure your pool pump is working properly as well. In many cases, you’ll just need to backwash the sand filter, or clean the cartridges in a cartridge filter. 
  • Consult your owner’s manual. After you’ve tried these tips, if you’re still having trouble, it’s always worth a peek at your owner’s manual. Depending on what brand and type of heater you have, you may find some additional help there. 

Some safety tips for you: 

  • Never bypass a safety feature on a heater to force it to operate. I once had a homeowner call to say that their heater’s door blew off.  Upon arrival, I discovered that the propane heater was equipped with a jumper wire to take out the safety link that protects the heater in case of a down draft. Apparently, this guy’s brother-in-law had “fixed it” by jumping the safety link to get the heater to operate, and they never called a technician to permanently repair the heater. That resulted in a very dangerous situation. Everything inside your heater is designed for safety, and other than these few pool troubleshooting tips, there are very few things that most homeowners can fix on their own. If these tips don’t yield any clues, call a professional pool service technician. 
  • Be aware that the top of a gas heater gets very hot. Use caution to prevent burns. I’ve seen melted cell phones, plastic cups and screwdriver handles as well as ruined shirts and shoes. So don’t put anything you value on top of your heater. 

The next stop is the chlorinator. 

There are many different manufacturers of chlorinators with different functionalities (such as high back-pressure systems with pop-up heads, or offline “tube” feeder systems.) So for now, we’ll just address the most common one—the inline chlorinator. Personally, I have a Hayward CL-200 inline chlorinator on my pool, and it’s been there for almost 35 years. I think it may be the only thing I haven’t had to replace. 

  • Again, start with a visual inspection. You’re looking for leaks, hairline cracks, and plant life that may have grown around the unit. If you find cracks, you may need to replace your unit. If you find plant life growing around your unit, you need to remove it.
  • Check the gaskets. If your unit is leaking, normally a lid gasket or drain plug gasket is the cause. If you find leaks here, these gaskets may just need to be replaced. 
  • Clean the canister. Turn off the pump, remove the lid and inspect the inside of the canister. There may be buildup in there that’s blocking the flow. Carefully remove any undissolved chlorine, remove the bottom plug, scrape off the inside, wipe out the residue, and flush it with water. If the unit has unions, remove and completely clean them. Using high quality chlorine pucks (or sticks) will alleviate the need to do this very often.

Some safety tips for you: 

  • Always use caution when opening the unit to avoid breathing chlorine gas buildup.
  • Take care that the chlorine doesn’t splash in your eyes or on your skin. 
  • Never use solvents or any chemical that may react with the chlorine to clean the inside.
  • Be sure to read the manufacturer safety warnings for your chlorinator.

It’s a process.

It may take some time before you learn all the things that pool owners know. To shorten your learning curve, see if your local pool company has “pool school” seminars to help you learn the ins and outs of pool ownership. In the meantime, stay on top of your regular pool maintenance to avoid problems (which should be pretty easy with your low-maintenance fiberglass pool!) and kick back and enjoy your new pool as much as you can. 

Until next time- The General

Who is The General? 

The man, the myth, the legend … we just call him The General. His organized, systematic approach to pool installations over the years had his crew members calling him “The General” and it stuck. The General has over 30 years’ experience in the pool and spa industry, working for one of “Pool and Spa News’ Top 50 Pool Builders.”

Over that time, he designed, sold, project-managed and installed over a thousand inground swimming pools. As a pool owner himself, he’s the perfect authority to give you the inside scoop, with amazing tips and tricks to make pool ownership a breeze! 

Ask the General; How Do I Troubleshoot the Pump on my Fiberglass Pool?

Posted on by krista

Five pool pump troubleshooting tips before you call the pros.

Dear General- 

It’s still pretty warm in Atlanta, and we haven’t yet closed our fiberglass pool. Over the last few days, our pool pump has started making some strange noises. It doesn’t happen all the time, but we’re not sure what we should do about it. Do you have any swimming pool pump troubleshooting tips for us, or is it time to call in the pros?

Signed- Addled in Atlanta

Dear Addled- 

inground fiberglass poolsWhile northerners are thinking about winter pool maintenance, we realize that other places across the country are still enjoying swim season. That said, I appreciate your question and do have a few tricks up my sleeve that you can try before you call the pros.

  1. Check your water level. Your pool pump may be struggling to get water. Pool pumps can only operate in a “closed” system. This means that they’re only designed to pump water—not air. When your water is low and it cascades into the skimmer, it’s bringing air along with the water into the system, which is not a good thing.

If you want to know the physics behind how your pump works, here it is: a pool has a centrifugal pump with an impeller and a diffuser that spins and creates a low pressure area in the eye of the impeller. This, with the help of atmospheric pressure allows the water to be pulled through the pump. There is no diaphragm that actually pumps to move the water. So, air disrupts the pressure levels necessary to keep the water moving.

If that was “TMI” for you, then just know that your pump is just not gonna work right if you get air in your system. Add some water to your pool.

  1. Check your skimmer baskets and main drain. If your skimmer baskets are full, or your main drain is covered by debris, your pool pump will struggle to maintain prime. Again, because your fiberglass pool pump needs water to function properly, impaired water flow is going to cause it to work too hard. So, if your pump seems to be working overtime, it might be as simple a fix as cleaning out your skimmer baskets (which you should be doing regularly anyway, as part of your pool maintenance program), or clearing the debris off your main drain.
  2. Check for air leaks. A cracked pump basket gasket, or a defective O-ring on the access plug can allow air into the system. Look for loose or damaged pump drain plugs at the bottom of the basket or on the side of the pump. Also inspect the pump basket lid and the pump basket itself for cracks.
  3. Check the pump basket and impeller for clogs. If your dog swims in the pool with you, or you happen to have a cottonwood tree in the neighborhood, you’ll find that hair or seed cotton can really clog up the impeller.  A skimmer basket and pump basket can only catch debris larger than the grate holes they have molded into them. So, you should install a fine mesh filter in your skimmers to catch hair, tree buds, and cottonwood seeds before they make it to the pump and filter. 
  4. Backwash your filter. Whether you have a cartridge filter or a sand filter, a dirty filter will not allow water to be pumped through it. This can also put a serious strain on your pool pump. I’ve talked about the importance of backwashing your filter before, so if you need a refresher, check out this article.

If none of these tips fix your pool pump problem, it’s time to call the pros. 

If you have checked all the things I’ve outlined above, and your pump is still making noise (especially if it sounds like grinding, buzzing, or even screaming), shut it off right away and call your local pool service technician for help. They might be able to fix it, or it might be time for a new pump. Either way, it shouldn’t be too long before you’re right back in the pool, enjoying the sunshine. Happy swimming.

Until next time- The General 

Who is The General? 

The man, the myth, the legend … we just call him The General. His organized, systematic approach to pool installations over the years had his crew members calling him “The General” and it stuck. The General has over 30 years’ experience in the pool and spa industry, working for one of Pool and Spa News’ “Top 50 Pool Builders.” 

Over that time, he designed, sold, project-managed and installed over a thousand inground swimming pools. As a pool owner himself, he’s the perfect authority to give you the inside scoop, with amazing tips and tricks to make pool ownership a breeze!