Pool Options & Accessories Archives - Page 3 of 3

Ways to Heat Your Swimming Pool

Posted on October 13, 2017July 29, 2026 by cargo

It gets cold in North America, even in our most tropical climates. Depending on where you live, nighttime cooling or winter weather can interfere with an enjoyable swim. That’s why before purchasing, buyers commonly ask, “can a fiberglass pool be heated?” The answer is yes: like other inground pools, you can heat a fiberglass pool. In fact, they tend to heat faster and retain heat longer than other pool types. Let’s explore the options for heating a pool.

Gas Pool Heaters

Gas heaters are relatively more cost effective upfront, but can be expensive to operate. While gas pool heaters will heat your pool quickly and are durable in inclement weather, they wear out faster than other pool heating options. They are an ideal option if heating your pool as quickly as possible is an important feature.

Gas heaters run approximately $1,500 to $6,000 for a typical residential inground swimming pool on average, and installation typically costs another $500 to $1,500. Operating the heater may run around $200 to $400 per month, depending on how frequently you run it and the utility prices in your area.

Gas Heater Pros: heats up fast

Gas Heater Cons: more expensive to run and don’t last as long

Propane Pool Heaters

If your home doesn’t have a natural gas supply line and you still want a gas heater, a propane pool heater is an alternative. Propane works much like gas. It reliably and quickly heats the pool water and is relatively easy to hook up. Propane units can wear out quicker than other options and, like gas units, cost a little more to operate.

Like natural gas, propane pool heaters run between $1,500 and $6,000 and $500 to $1500 to install on average. Operating a propane heater typically costs around $200 to $850 per month, depending on the frequency of usage and propane prices in your area.

Propane Heater Pros: heats up fast and efficiently

Propane Heater Cons: more expensive to run and don’t last as long

Electric Heat Pump Pool Heaters

Heat pumps are becoming a popular option for pool owners as they are an energy-efficient means of heating a pool. They use a 220V electrical line to convert energy into heat. Heat pump pool heaters work most efficiently when the outside temperature remains above 45 to 50ºF.

A heat pump’s mid-range price is around $3,500, and installation costs between $500 and $1000 on average. However, they typically only cost about $120 to $200 per month to operate. Because electric heat pumps work off the ambient air temperature, they are slower to heat than a typical gas heater.

Heat Pump Pros: less expensive to operate, energy-efficient, a cleaner energy source

Heat Pump Cons: slower to heat, dependent on outdoor temperature, more expensive upfront

Electric Resistance Heaters

Like electric heat pumps, electric resistance heaters run on electricity. However, instead of relying on ambient air temperature, the pump passes water directly over a heating unit, resulting in efficient water heating despite the outdoor temperature.

Electric heaters cost an average of $500 to $5,000 plus installation costs around $500 to $1000. Operating costs depend on usage and utility prices but are typically higher than other heating options. Expect to spend roughly $175 to $600 per month on operating costs.

Electric Resistance Heater Pros: lower upfront costs, greener energy source, not dependent on outdoor air temperature

Electric Resistance Heater Cons: high operation costs, not as energy-efficient

Solar Pool Heaters

Through solar panels, solar pool heaters convert energy from the sun into heat for the pool. Solar pool heaters are good for the environment as they generate and utilize clean, renewable, and reliable energy, and they can potentially last up to 30 years with minimal maintenance. Solar heat helps eliminate carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides emissions, a significant contributor to smog and global climate change.

Solar pool heaters are more expensive at a purchase cost of between $2,000 and $7,500 as an initial investment on average, plus an average of $500 to $2,000 for installation. They often pay for themselves over time because they have essentially no operating costs.

Solar Heater Pros: no operating costs, long-lasting, green energy source

Solar Heater Cons: higher initial cost, slower to heat, require year-round sunlight

Location Factors

Location can factor into your choice of pool heater in several ways. By connecting with an experienced local installer, you’ll have a guide regarding these potential location factors:

Tax Breaks – Your state or federal government may have added electric and solar heat pumps to the list of equipment that qualifies for special tax breaks. Talk to your dealer or tax advisor about these guidelines.
Cold Climate – If you live in a colder climate, a gas/propane heater may be the way to go for its robust and quick performance.
Remote Location – If you are in a remote area with limited access to the electric grid or municipal gas lines, propane or solar heaters may best suit your situation.

It’s important to note that these price ranges will vary depending on many factors, like geographic location, whether or not you have a pool cover, average temperatures, etc. Pool heater installation may require municipality approval and connection to existing power/fuel sources. You’ll want to match the heat source choice to your pool’s location, water volume, and temperature desires. It’s not unheard of to do a DIY pool heater installation, but we suggest checking local regulations and considering using a pool professional.

Pool Floats that You Need Now for Your Pool

Posted on August 30, 2017July 29, 2026 by cargo

Pool floats are essential for when you’re spending your days in your swimming pool. Whether you’re relaxing all day and splashing with your family and friends, floats for pools are crucial components to do both. With pool floats, you can be guaranteed to have a good time with all your pool party guests.

For any pool owner, pool floats should be considered a necessity. They come in handy if you have children who may be scared when they’re in the water. Children can enjoy floating in the water without fear with the help of kid-friendly floats. Floats for pools are also perfect for when you just want to lay and relax on stressful days. Who doesn’t love to relieve stress floating in the pool all day?

No matter what you want to use a pool float for, there are a lot of different options for you. We have put together a few different types of floats that we think you will enjoy.

Classic and inexpensive floats

If you’re looking for something simple and easy, the classic floats such as the mesh loungers and the bubble chair floats are great options. Both are comfortable and inexpensive choices. They let you relax in your swimming pool without having to worry about a thing.

Double pool floats

Who doesn’t love chilling with their friends in the pool all day? Double pool floats allow two swimmers to float around in the pool while enjoying a nice conversation. Some double floats even have built-in coolers so you can always have a nice, cold beverage on hand.

Kid-friendly floats

For your smaller kids who may not know how to swim there are many options out there. There are some that shade your little ones from the sun. You will be able to find floats for pools that keep your child comfortable and help them feel sturdy in the water. Even though floats can help your children feel more comfortable in the pool, children should never be left unsupervised in floats.

There are so many floats for pools out there on the market! We hope this was a good place to start while you’re searching for great pool floats. Make sure you follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more swimming pool tips!

Beautiful Water Features for Your Pool

Posted on August 24, 2017July 29, 2026 by cargo

You have your new inground pool in your backyard, and obviously, you want to create your backyard paradise. Water features are an excellent addition to any poolside backyard. Flowing water not only enhances a tranquil atmosphere, but it also adds a sense of fun and elegance to the pool.

A swimming pool will bring hours of fun and relaxation, but water features can add an entirely new dimension to the usual sitting-by-the-pool experience. Of course, it is best to plan your water features while your pool is under construction. However, if you already have a pool and now you’d like to add a feature, you don’t need to worry because these elements can be added to existing swimming pools.

Laminars

Laminars are becoming more and more popular. They are strong, sleek streams of water that come from the decking surrounding your pool. The jets have a smooth uniform look and can be used with any inground pool design. You can add a LED color display to your laminars at night.

Cascades

Cascades are similar to waterfalls but offer a slightly different effect. With cascade features, the water rolls over several rocks or rock slabs and then tumbles into the pool. Cascades can fit any pool theme and will offer the relaxing waterfall sound that everyone loves. We guarantee you will complete the oasis vibe you’re going for with cascades.

Bubblers

Slightly similar to deck jets, bubblers are small “fountains” that typically sit at the edge of the pool. They are meant to create a stream of water that bubbles and the water stream height can vary. Bubblers can come in bowl shapes or planters that spill over into the pool. To add a cool effect for the night time, consider adding LED lights to the bubblers.

Take a look at our past blog post for features you can add to your swimming that your children will love! Make sure you are following our Pinterest page for more style tips for your backyard swimming pool.

Kid-Friendly Features for Your Swimming Pool

Posted on June 30, 2017July 29, 2026 by cargo

When purchasing an inground pool, how a pool is going to look and fit in your backyard isn’t the only thing you need to consider. You also need to think about features that are kid-friendly. Don’t worry; there are plenty of features that your kids will love, but will also complete the aesthetic of your backyard.

If you invest in the right places, you can create the perfect and relaxing outdoor living space of your dreams. And you can also have the fun place-to-be for all your kids and their friends. Here are some features that can help you achieve both.

Spas

After a long game of Marco Polo, there’s nothing better than relaxing in the spa, regardless of how old your kid is. Kids, big and small, love spas and they are very easy to add to your backyard. You do need to choose one that flows with the aesthetics of your pool and backyard. Also, make sure there’s always an adult around to supervise.

Waterfalls

Waterfalls are a great water feature to add to your pool that will complete a perfect touch to your yard. They look beautiful and add a relaxing sound to your backyard paradise. Kids will love to play with the falling water, no matter the size of the waterfall. Everyone in the family will enjoy hanging out in a swimming pool with waterfalls.

Tanning Ledges

Tanning ledges are not just for you to bask in the sun all day. They are also ideal for families with young children. Tanning ledges are essentially shelves on the edge of the pool where children can splash and play all day. They also make for an easy entrance into the pool for children of all ages.

Any of all of these features make great additions to anyone’s swimming pool. Are you ready to add any of these kid-friendly features to your swimming pool? Contact an Independent Dealer today.

Should I Buy A Cover For My Pool?

Posted on May 26, 2017July 29, 2026 by cargo

Pool covers are common in areas where pools have an “off-season” or when they close during the winter months. If you expect to winterize your pool for some time, we recommended that you buy a pool cover. Keeping your pool covered during winter months will protect your pool and make getting your pool ready for use easier. If a pool is left uncovered, the leaves and debris will not only be a hassle to remove in the springtime but will break down over the winter months and cause havoc on water chemistry and possible staining.

There are three basic types of pool covers: tarp covers, safety covers (both solid and mesh) and automatic safety covers. Tarp covers are tarps that are made to fit over your pool and rest on top of the water. They are secured by being weighted down. Often, they are weighted down with water tubes (vinyl bags filled with water).

Safety covers are available in mesh and solid. Safety covers are anchored to the perimeter of the pool deck using grommets and steel springs. These are made to suspend freely and fit snugly over the pool. Mesh safety covers allow water to filter through the cover into the pool. The solid safety covers do not. Any pool cover that holds water must be accompanied with a cover pump. Cover pumps continually keep the water pumped off the top of the pool cover.

Automatic safety covers are built into a set of tracks that run the length of the pool and when closed rests on top of the pool water. An automatic safety cover provides all the benefits of a safety cover in 60 seconds or less. Not only are they perfect for the wintertime, but they will protect your pool on a regular basis.

Pool covers that meet ASTM safety cover standards are considered safety covers as well. When installed and used correctly, safety covers prevent children from accessing the pool water. Pool safety covers can be seen as one layer of protection. Thursday Pools supports the idea of providing multiple layers of protection to prevent drownings in pools or hot tubs. You should never rely on only one means of protection, and there is no replacement for constant adult supervision.

Our Thursday Pools fiberglass pools will fit with any type of pool cover. Find all our fiberglass pool designs here!

Saltwater Pool vs. Chlorine Water Pool

Posted on April 27, 2017July 29, 2026 by cargo

Choosing how to sanitize your inground swimming pool can be confusing when you are comparing a saltwater pool vs. a chlorine water pool. Overall, salt water pools and traditional chlorine pools are very similar. The differences lie in the method of adding chlorine to the pool. Salt systems use the dissolved salt in the pool water and a process called electrolysis. The dissolved salt passes through the salt cell to produce chlorine. Traditional chlorine pools use chlorine tablets or pucks that are made to dissolve as water passes over them.

Pros of Salt Water Pools-The Benefits of Owning a Saltwater Pool

Convenience. Pool owners don’t have to handle or store chlorine. With traditional chlorine options, you have to add chlorine granules, tablets, or pucks manually.
Reduces the amount of chlorine needed to maintain a properly sanitized pool. Salt systems work as both a sanitizer and an oxidizer. Traditional chlorine pools will require a weekly or bi-weekly oxidizing shock.
The pool water feels noticeably better on the skin and eyes. The chlorine water that the unit produces is very pure and does not have any irritating chloramines, unlike traditional chlorine pools.

Cons of Salt Pools-The Disadvantage of Owning a Saltwater Pool

Salt is naturally corrosive. It’s corrosive nature can cause premature aging on metal parts and equipment and can be harsh on the natural stone decking. We would recommend adding a sacrificial anode to the pool. For instance, an easy example would be adding a zinc ball to your skimmer basket. The sacrificial anode like the zinc ball is a weaker metal. It will sacrifice itself and corrode before all other metals in the water.
Salt systems inherently drive up the pH levels. We recommended incorporating a system that automatically detects pH levels and introduces acid as needed.
Salt systems can cause calcium build-up. Properly maintaining your pH and Total Alkalinity levels will help prevent calcium buildup.
Costly start-up costs. While you will save money on chlorine over the life of the pool, the initial unit cost of a salt system can range anywhere from $1,500-$2,200 or more, depending on the system and size of the pool. The cell inside your salt generator should last an average of three to five years depending on how well you maintain it. The replacement cost of the cell ranges $500-$800.

While there are some definite benefits to a salt pool, they do not equate to a no maintenance pool. Salt pools still need to have their water tested at least once a week and adjusted accordingly to ensure all chemical levels are within proper range.

Top Five Pool Options Every Inground Swimming Pool Buyer Should Consider

Posted on January 5, 2017July 29, 2026 by cargo

The market for inground swimming pool options is enormous and can be overwhelming, but there are only a handful that every inground pool owner should consider. Here are some important swimming pool options that you should consider and why. We have also included some budget saving tips.

Automatic Pool Covers. Automatic pool covers do more than protect your loved ones and pets; they make owning your own pool easy. Automatic safety covers protect your inground pool from water evaporation loss which aids in keeping heat and chemicals in; helping you keep pool chemicals and heating costs down. They also aid in keeping debris out allowing you more time for fun and frolicking rather than vacuuming or skimming leaves. For those folks who winterize their pool, it can double as your winter cover which allows you to avoid the hassle of dragging out the water tubes and tarp or strapping down your safety cover. Who doesn’t want to avoid that hassle? As a side note, most pool companies charge less for winterization when pool owners have an automatic safety cover.
Pool Budget Saving Tip: Adding on an automatic safety cover when purchasing your inground pool options is a large expense and often is not in the budget. In lieu of a complete purchase, ask your pool builder about prepping for a future automatic safety cover install. Many times pool builders can set the box and tracks laying the groundwork for a future install that will be easy and more cost effective than a retrofit.
Heater. For those of us that don’t live in the sunbelt, we are always looking for ways to extend our swim season. A heater is a great way to do that. Yes, they can be costly to run especially gas heaters, but you likely will only run the heater in early spring and late fall. Electric heat pumps are more efficient and less expensive to operate, but they are slower to heat and have a higher initial cost. If you decide to go with a heat pump, they offer a chiller option that you might consider.
Pool Budget Saving Tip: Heaters are easy pool options to add on later and don’t necessarily have to be installed at the time of your inground pool purchase. Just be sure that you leave enough room in your equipment area. The heater must be a minimum of 8 feet away from a window so plan ahead.
Inground pool lighting. Inground pool lighting can elevate the entire mood of your backyard patio area and provide safety for late night swimmers. This is one of those inground pool options that if you are considering it, now would be the time to opt for it. In-pool lighting is difficult to add on to an inground pool later and will cost you a lot more after the fact.
Water Features. The sound of moving water is mesmerizing and provides health benefits such as stress relief and relaxation. The best part about adding a water feature as one of your pool options is it allows you to enjoy the pool without even being in it. Adding a water feature to your inground pool can be as simple as a deck jet or as elaborate as a custom waterfall. Water features that circulate the pool water are not easily added on later and should be planned for during the construction phase of your project.
Pool Budget Saving Tip: If it isn’t in your initial “pool options budget” to add a water feature, ask your pool builder about pre-plumbing and stubbing up for a future water feature addition.
Slides and Sports. Slides and water sports can bring out the competitive spirit in any family and raise the fun level. The options for inground pool slides have grown tremendously over the last decade. Extreme slides such as SR Smith’s Turbo Twister® or Inter-fab’s X-Stream® are some popular pool slide choices. Because all pool slides operate using a water line installed during construction, they are not easily retrofitted to existing pools. There are a lot of options for on deck applications for inground pool sports like volleyball and basketball; the best most unobtrusive pool options require an anchor socket to be installed in the deck during construction.
Pool Budget Saving Tip: You can pre-plumb your pool with a water line for a slide to add later on but it does take some planning. You will want to decide what slide you will want in the future and make sure that you have the footprint large enough on your patio area to accommodate it along with the proper size plumbing line. You will also want to make sure that it meets the slides safety requirements for depth and entry. You can hold off on purchasing the basketball and volleyball units, but I would strongly recommend at least having the deck anchors installed.