For a different approach to swimming pool alarms, we would like to introduce you to the Safety Turtle alarm system. This pool alarm system uses a wristband that the child wears, and if the child goes in to the pool the alarm will sound.
Using the Safety Turtle can reduce the amount of false alarms because of the use of the bracelet is the only way the alarm will go off. This puts you more in control of the safety of your children. Multiple Safety Turtle bracelets can be used with a existing controller as long as they are the same color. This means that everyone can be safe that uses the pool.
The Safety Turtle bracelets are attached to the child’s wrist and locked with a key that you keep ensuring there is no tampering with the bracelet. If you or other adults are supervising the kids the bracelets can be removed offering flexibility for whatever the situation.
Good housekeeping reviewed the Safety Turtle and had this to say about it:
“…This product is most suitable as a supplement for pool alarms. It is a good alarm choice for pets and young swimmers around spas or pools with water features. It can be used where the other alarms can’t be installed (e.g., ponds, lakes).”
-Read the rest of the Good Housekeeping pool alarm review article
The Safety Turtle pool alarm system is a great way for you to protect your family from potential hazards around the pool while giving you the most control over your child’s safety.
Solar Sun Rings are a great way to retain your pools heat for a more enjoyable swim but what if you live in a windy area? This can pose a problem with your Solar Sun Rings coming off the pool, but we now offer Sun Rings with water anchors.
These water anchors act as “pockets” that collect and hold water to “anchor” your Solar Sun Rings to your pool. Here is a close up of what the actual water anchor looks like:
As you can see this pouch goes all the way around the Sun Ring, so when the whole ring fills up you have weight holding down the entire Sun Ring. This is the only difference between the Solar Sun Rings with anchors and without anchors; you still get all the benefits of the blue and palm print Sun Rings.
The Solar Sun Rings with Anchors are a great way for any one in pretty much any environment that want to heat their pool economically and safely.
As of December of 2008 it is mandatory that all pools use drain covers that meet new safety standard thanks to the Virginia Graeme Baker Act, but this act also required public pools to use safeguards such as safety vacuum release systems (SVRS). Vac-Alert is a company that manufacturers these safety systems and are the premier distributor of SVRS devices.
The way a SVRS works is it’s plumbed in line with your pump on the main drain suction line. If by chance someone gets caught in the main drain or held at the bottom by the suction of the drain the Vac-Alert senses the pressure change and allows air to be passed through with the water, releasing the vacuum and allowing the person to be freed.
These pool safety systems can be life saving if s child were to get trapped by the drain which is well worth the cost and effort to install. The Vac-Alert installs in about 30 minutes for a lifetime of peace of mind.
A Vac-Alert is recommended for each pump to ensure proper protection, especially if your pool has multiple bottom drains or a spa with a floor drain as well. A frequently asked question is will it damage the pump and the answer is no. The Vac-Alert allows just enough air to free the person but not enough to damage the pump.
The Vac-Alert SVRSis the perfect solution to any pool / spa owner that wants to ensure the safety of their family and anyone that uses their pool.
Here is a news report that shows how the Swim Alert pool alarm works in real life and how it can save a life. They test the alarm to see if they can trick it with something that is not a body and are not too successful.
If you have been looking around at getting a alternative sanitizer but not sure if they’re worth the money, the Pool Frog Instant Frog is your solution. This floating mineral dispenser drops right into your pool skimmer and delivers the same great mineral water cleaning as the regular Pool Frog mineral systems.
The Instant Pool frog requires no install or retro-fitting, you literally drop it in your in-ground skimmer and you’re done. Your pool should be up to 25,000 gallons to get the proper water sanitization and will last for 6 months before it needs to be replaced.
Once installed, the Instant Frog goes to work ridding the water of bacteria and preventing algae while conditioning your water to give it extra shine and make it feel soft. You get to reduce your chlorine usage from anywhere between 50 – 80%.
The Instant Frog Pool Sanitizer is a great way to see all the benefits of mineral sanitizing, without committing to buying a whole kit but once you see how much better your water looks and feels you will wonder how you ever swam without a mineral sanitizer.
When it comes to swimming pool safety, you can’t be too careful especially if you have a family that enjoys the pool. A pool alarm is a great way to enjoy the pool and not have to worry about someone getting hurt and today we are looking at one of the best alarms on the market, the AquaSensor Espio.
The Espio is made by AquaSensor, who also manufacturers the Swim Alert pool alarm. One of the advantages of the Espio is the fact that it is a small discreet pool alarm that sits on the side of the pool at the water line. This means no need for the unit to hang over the edge and on the walkway.
The Espio is a technologically advanced pool alarm which can automatically calibrate when you initially set it up to account for filter pumps, waterfalls, fountains, etc. So during the first 10 minutes of operation it can sense to not active its alarm due to these normal disturbances.
The alarm is disabled with a hand held remote that requires you to be at least 10 feet from the pool to disarm. This reduces the amount of false alarms and ensures that someone checks the pool if the alarm goes off. A wireless indoor alarm is also included to indicate battery level and status.
Here’s what Good Housekeeping had to say about the Espio in their pool alarm reviews:
“The Espio offers a swim mode — it automatically rearms when water has calmed after a swim. It is the only subsurface alarm for which the body sits inside the pool. And if the pool is currently being constructed, the metal support plate can actually be installed underneath the coping. Another nice feature: The alarm has magnetic controls, requiring a supplied magnetic key to enter swim mode. This design makes it more difficult for kids to bypass the system…” Read the pool alarm review full article
Some of the other key features of the Espio are:
Under-coping installation
100db alarm
on/off remote within 10’ of pool
works with auto pool covers
low battery and alarm failure signals
NSF certified and UL listed
Automatic rearming after bathing
The AquaSensor Espio pool alarm is a top of the line swimming pool safety device that offer reliability and functionality in 1 small compact unit.
This is a demonstration video of how the Vac-Alert SVRS works. It shows how fast the Vac-Alert goes into action if there is a entrapment, this is a great video if you were considering purchasing a Vac-Alert because it shows how it really works.
The Poolguard swimming pool alarm is a economical and dependable choice for protecting your loved ones from the pool. Poolguard is a pool alarm system that incorporates the latest technology to deliverer superior alarm system.
This deck mount alarm system is battery powered and uses new sensing technology to detect when someone enters the pool unexpectedly. There are many safeguards included in the Poolguard, such as a tamper proof unit that will sound the alarm if removed from the pool and a always in alarm ready mode to make sure you’re always protected.
A in-house remote receiver is included that has a 200 ft range and uses a 12 volt power supply to alert you if someone falls in or the battery level drops. The Poolguard is effective in pool up to 20 x 40 feet and can also be used with a solar blanket.
During Good Housekeeping’s pool alarm review they had this to say about the Poolguard:
“The PGRM-2 (Poolguard) sounded on each mannequin drop with an average response time of 9.45 seconds, and did not alarm during the wind test. This subsurface device meets all of GHRI’s safety requirements.”
-You can read the whole Good Housekeeping pool alarm review
Some other features of the Poolguard are:
85 dB alarm at 10 feet
In house remote receiver
Sensing technology reduces false alarms from wind, rain or small objects
Alarm can be removed and put in sleep mode to use the pool
NSF certified and UL listed
Comes with a 3 year warranty
For a all around great swimming pool alarm you can’t go wrong with the Poolguard pool alarm, the features and dependability make this alarm a great buy.
Most pool lights need a niche fitting to install the light unit into your pool, but for people that don’t have one of these fittings already installed the Savi Note is your answer. This Nexxus lighting system doesn’t require any niche fitting and fits into any standard gunite, vinyl, and fiberglass return fitting.
Not only do these small but extraordinarily powerful lights fit into any standard return fitting but they also can work in water as low as 4 inches. This makes them perfect for anyone with a beach entry or sun shelves looking for swimming pool lighting.
The Savi Note offers 5 luminous colors: Moonlight white, blue lagoon, Sargassion Sea, Passion pink and Savi blue. Not only can you choose from the standard colors you have the choice of 4 “shows” that change colors.
The way Savi Note works
You can connect up to 4 Savi Note lights to a controller, each light comes with either a 100 foot or 150 foot cord allowing you to position them throughout your pool to setup the best and brightest lighting possible. The colors are mixed in the lamp and not in the pool to make sure you get the purest color available.
Ozone is quickly becoming a alternative sanitizing choice for many pool owners. Although most people think ozonators are only used in spas but using them in your swimming pool gives you the same benefits as in your spa.
Del Ozone has a product that can satisfy the needs of above ground pool owners that are looking to take advantage of using a ozonator to help sanitize the water. The Big Dipper ozone generator is made especially for above ground pools up to 25,000 gallons and deliver the same cleaning effects of spa and in-ground ozonators produce.
Ozone kills 99.99% of bacteria, viruses and molds found in pools by creating ozone and injecting it into the water ( you can read our article about how ozone works to learn more ). This offers a natural way of helping clean your water without the use of harmful chemicals.
The Big Dipper can reduce your chemical usage by 60 – 90% while removing microorganisms and contaminants. This means no more buying chemicals constantly. Not only does it save you money but also time, in not having to worry about balancing the water because the Big Dipper automatically sanitizes your water.
This above ground ozonator installs easily to your existing filtration system for fast convenient setup. If you really wanted to get the best water quality possible you could pair a salt chlorinator with a ozonator. This will give crystal clear water that is virtually contaminant free without having to use any chemicals.
Tired of having to change your old incandescent pool light every year? Want to save money every year? Trying to use less energy to be more eco-friendly? If you answered yes to any of these questions you need to take a look into replacing your incandescent pool light with a new LED replacement.
LED lights are the future of pool lighting, and even if you don’t have a new LED system already installed in your pool you can replace the incandescent bulb with a white LED. Not only does just by changing the bulb instantly reduces your power consumption but it also will last 20 times longer than a incandescent bulb.
J & J Electronics has created a replacement bulb that will fit directly into the Hayward Astrolite and the Pentair Amerilite.
Here is a table that shows the comparison of the PureWhite LED versus a 300, 400 and 500 watt incandescent bulb:
PureWhite LED
300W
400W
500W
Life span (hours)
50,000
2,500
2,500
2,500
Life span (years)
11.42
.57
.57
.57
Watts
45
300
400
500
Annual KWh Usage
197
1,314
1,752
2,190
Annual Energy cost
$21.68
$144.54
$192.72
$240.90
Annual maintenance cost
$0
$175
$175
$175
Total Annual Usage Cost
$21.68
$319.54
$367.72
$415.9
With the immense amount of savings in cost and on the actual amount of energy used, to not take advantage of these great PureWhite LED light replacement bulbs would be like throwing money away.
Staying true to the tradition of making reliable and efficient swimming pool pumps, the Pentair Whisperflo pump stays true to its roots. Being engineered from high-temperature, thermoplastic materials, the Whisperflo can withstand extreme heat and resist corrosion. The motor itself is built using a stainless steel motor shaft and sealed bearings, so no need for lubrication. The pump sits on a rust proof commercial grade motor frame, this are all the makings of a rock solid pool pump.
You would think that with all this industrial reinforcement, the pump would be a loud, noisy machine but that’s absolutely wrong. The Whisperflo is so quiet you can compare it any other high performance pump and see that the Whisperflo lives up to its name.
In addition to the sturdy design and quiet operation, the Whisperflo also includes:
Over sized strainer basket
2 in. inlet / outlet ports to prevent blocking
Available in single or dual speed models
High efficient impeller and energy efficient motor maximize efficiency, reducing your costs
Hydraulic design provides more water flow per horsepower
Cam and Ramp lid makes inspection and cleaning simple
With its energy efficient design, solid construction and affordable price, the Pentair Whisperflo is a great all around pump for just about any residential pool needs.
Polaris makes fantastic pool cleaners, we all know this. But like everything else, certain things can break or wear out occasionally and we need to replace them. This might be foreign territory to some people and that’s ok, were here to help. Unfortunately Polaris doesn’t mark the individual parts with a part number or identifiable part number, but don’t worry you can find a detailed part diagram for your Polaris 280, 260, 380, ATV/340, 165 and 65 that allow you to view every part on the cleaner for easy identification.
We have even made it easier by highlighting each part when you put your mouse over and telling you exactly what it is and what the part number is. You can even click the part and it will take you directly to purchase that replacement item! Here is an example of our Polaris 280 diagram:
If you would like to see more for the other cleaner please choose from the list below:
Your pool pump is a crucial piece to your filtration system, but most people would think that the more horsepower the better. This is not true; if you have a properly sized pump you will avoid excess wear on your other equipment and avoid wasting electricity. There are a few variables that play into choosing the right size pump for your pool and were going to go over them.
The first thing you want to determine is how many hours you want your pump to take to circulate all the water in the pool, this is called the “turnover time”. An ideal turnover rate is 8 – 10 hours so in this example were going to look for an 8 hour turnover time. Once we have your desired turnover time we need to find the minimum flow rate to achieve that turnover time. The equation for finding your GPM (gallons per minute) is:
Pool size (gallons) / Turnover time / 60 = Minimum flow rate
For example if our pool is 35,000 gallons and we want a turnover rate of 8 hours, our equation would look like this: 35,000 / 8 / 60 = 73 GPM (gallons per minute)
For this example we will use a 35,000 gallon pool so according to the table above we need a pump with a 73 GPM in order to achieve an 8 hour turnover time. Now we figured out how much water we need to be pumped, but the water can only flow if your plumbing is big enough to support it. Here is a cart that shows how much flow each different size pipe diameter supports:
1.5 in. = 42 GPM
2 in. = 73 GPM
2.5 in. = 120 GPM
3 in. = 160 GPM
Depending on how many intakes you have from your pool (and spa if you have one attached to the pool) determines the maximum flow rate, for example if we have two inlets from the pool both plumbed in 2 inch line and a spa that’s also plumbed in 2 inch line. This would give us a pool max flow rate of 146 GPM and a spa flow rate of 73 GPM (since we have 2 intakes from the pool its double). But if you have two you want to go with the lowest number, so our maximum flow rate would be 73 GPM.
As our pool water makes it through the line and to the pump it is then passed to another restricting element known as the filter. Every filter has a maximum flow rate as well and if you go over that flow rate your water will not be filtered properly. We have included a chart so you can size your pool filter properly as well:
Sand Filters
Tank Diameter
19"
21"
24"
30"
36"
Surface Area
1.8 sq ft
2.3 sq ft
3.1 sq ft
4.9 sq ft
6.9 sq ft
Best Flow Rate
40 GPM
50 GPM
60 GPM
100 GPM
140 GPM
Cartridge Filters
Surface Area
100 sq ft
200 sq ft
300 sq ft
400 sq ft
500 sq ft
Max flow Rate
38 GPM
75 GPM
112 GPM
150 GPM
150 GPM
Best Flow Rate
30 GPM
50 GPM
75 GPM
100 GPM
125 GPM
D.E. Filters
Surface Area
24 sq ft
36 sq ft
48 sq ft
60 sq ft
72 sq ft
Max Flow Rate
48 GPM
72 GPM
96 GPM
120 GPM
144 GPM
Best Flow Rate
36 GPM
54 GPM
72 GPM
90 GPM
108 GPM
Armed with this information you can now narrow down a pump that will be right for your pool, with knowing what the minimum flow you need and maximum flow you can take will put right in the middle to use your Swimming pool pump as efficiently as possible.
The hottest trend in pool lighting is the use of energy efficient LED lights to improve the appearance of your pool along with lowering the cost of having your light on. Two manufacturers that have developed great LED swimming pool lighting systems are Hayward and Pentair. Hayward developed the ColorLogic system and Pentair created the Intellibrite lighting system.
While both these Lighting setups are great, we wanted to know what was the differences between the two, so we’ve put together some of the features and differences between the ColorLogic and Intellibrite.
The ColorLogic features 5 different colors: Afternoon Skies (light blue), deep blue sea (dark blue), Emerald (green), Sangria (magenta/pink) and cloud white (white). Each of these colors can be a fixed color or you can choose from 7 color show with “twilight” mode 1,536 colors constantly changing.
The color shows offer a way to set a mood and ambiance with your pool by changing and alternating colors. While this is a standard for both systems, the ColorLogic has shows that offer more colors and a wider variety of transitions.
The Price of the ColorLogic light with stainless steel ring is about the same as the Intellibrite setup but the ColorLogic has the option to be purchased with a plastic ring for a substantial price reduction.
As with the ColorLogic the Intellibrite also features 5 colors but they include: Blue, Green, Magenta, White and Red. With these colors you can pick a fixed color or choose from 7 different light shows .
What sets the Intellibrite apart from the ColorBrite and other LED systems is the Superior reflection design, this enables more light to be directed at the pool bottom to intensify the color effects.
With the Intellibrite you only have the option of a stainless steel outer ring for dependability.
With either of these swimming pool lighting systems you get the benefit of using a technology that will make the traditional pool light obsolete. LED lights last 6 times longer the traditional lights while using about 75% fewer watts to operate. We have a great article about why LED lights are better than Incandescent lights if you want to learn more about the different lighting types.
In conclusion both these pool lighting systems are a great addition and it would really come down to preference. But as always we recommend you staying with a family of products if you already have one for all your other pool equipment. This is especially true with the Intellibrite because it can be used with your EasyTouch or IntelliTouch control system.
With spring and summer approaching, a lot of people are getting there pools ready for the season, most people don’t realize the risk they are running having kids around the pool with no alarm. A swimming pool alarm is a great way to offer safety and peace of mind with not having to spend a fortune.
One of the most affordable and effective pool alarms available is the Swim Alert. This swimming pool alarm triggers powerful sirens that can be heard poolside and in your home if something weighing more than 18 pounds enters the pool. If something does enter the pool the alarm is triggered within seconds and can be this effective in pools up to 20’ x 40’.
The Swim Alert also includes a wireless remote that provides a second alarm and also lets you know if the batteries are low. The Swim Alert cannot be disabled remotely; it uses a magnetic key that requires you to inspect the pool to disarm the alarm.
Good Housekeeping magazine tested a series of pool alarms on the market to find out which ones worked the best and which ones you should avoid, this is what they had to say about the Swim Alert:
“The Swim Alert sounded on each mannequin drop test with the fastest average response time of 8.76 seconds, and did not alarm during the wind test. It tied with the Espio for the loudest alarm. This subsurface device meets all of GHRI’s safety requirements.”
-Good House Keeping Magazine Pool Alarm Review
Some other features of the Swim Alert are:
Conforms to CA, CT, NJ and NY pool alarm codes
100db Alarm
Automatic re-arming after leaving the pool
Magnetic keys for activation/deactivation
NSF certified and UL listed
Low battery and out or range warning lights
The Swim Alert swimming pool alarm is a affordable and effective way to ensure the safety of your family around your pool. With a easy install and setup you will be spending more time enjoying the pool then worrying about it in no time.
The top of the line robotic cleaner in the Prowler series is the Pentair Prowler 730. This advanced pool cleaner takes everything that’s great about the Prowler 720 and add a few more upgrades. This computer-controlled cleaning machine utilizes its scrubbers to clean the bottom and filter the water at the same time.
Technically the Prowler 730 is almost the same as the Prowler 720 with changes in the front scrubber using dual cleaners that can turn independently for a better turning radius, instead of the single cleaner. Also the 730 features a wireless remote that allows you to control the 730 manually or automatically. But still keep the powerful vacuum to remove fine particles and larger debris allows you to reduce your filter run time. The 730 can clean a 20 x 50 ft pool in about a hour.
Some additional features of the Prowler 730 are:
Wireless remote control
Powerful two-way cleaning by vacuuming and filtering the water
Auto-reverse feature prevents hang-ups on corners, steps and ladders
Works on all types of pool surfaces, tile, fiberglass, gunite, vinyl
Removes bacteria and algae while cleaning
Reduces the run time of your filter by up to 25% to save of pump and filter wear and energy usage
Built in filtration system with a reusable 2 micron filter bag
The Pentair Prowler 730 is the supreme robotic cleaner from Pentair and with extraordinary efficiency and results; you will be able to spend more time enjoying your swimming pool.
We get people asking us all the time how they could extend their salt cell life. People want to know what they can do to get the most out of their salt cell and extend the time period of having to replace the cell and there are a few things you can do to get the most out of the salt cell and your pool in general.
Ozone
A ozonator is a great way to extend your salt cell, a ozonator works by using ozone to help sanitize the water (read our what is ozone and how it works article for more information). This helps your salt cell if the ozone is injected into the water before the cell, this lets the salt cell not have to work as hard to clean the water. Having your salt cell do less work means a longer life span all while getting the cleanest water possible.
Natural Chemistry
Just as your salt chlorinator turns salt into natural chlorine, natural chemistry products are safe non–toxic products that help clean your water. Using the Natural Chemistry Salt Water magic and Phosfree the algae in your pool will be kept under control. Not only does this help put less strain on your salt cell to clean the water but it will also keep the phosphates low in your pool all season while making the water soft and silky.
Having a good test kit
One of the easiest things you can do to get the most out of your salt cell and all your pool equipment for that matter is use a good test kit and test your water regularly. By testing your water routinely you can make sure that your salt cell doesn’t have to work harder than it needs too. A good way to do this would be with a high quality test kit like the Taylor K-2005 water test kit.
The Pentair Prowler series of robotic pool cleaners are known for being fast and efficient cleaners and the Prowler 720 is no exception. The 720 is a computer-controlled and programmed cleaner that scrubs and vacuums your pool while filtering the water!
As with all robotic cleaners there is no need for installation, running your pool filter or booster pump. This totally self contained unit provides cleaning and filtering at once. The patented Aqua Smart System is an intelligent program that enables the 720 to clean most residential pools in an hour.
The Prowler 720 also features:
Powerful two-way cleaning by vacuuming and filtering the water
Auto-reverse feature prevents hang-ups on corners, steps and ladders
Works on all types of pool surfaces, tile, fiberglass, gunite, vinyl
Removes bacteria and algae while cleaning
Reduces the run time of your filter by up to 25% to save of pump and filter wear and energy usage
Built in filtration system with a reusable 2 micron filter bag
60 ft power cord
The Pentair Prowler 720 is an awesome robotic cleaner that can help you effortlessly enjoy your pool while taking the first step to a eco-friendly pool.
Is your swimming pool a little too cold for you these days? Maybe its time to think about getting some kind of heater for your pool but you don’t know if a heat pump or a heater is right for your pool. Well we have put together a way to let you figure out which would be better for your pool and situation.
The first thing you should consider is the area in which your pool is located because the way a heat pump works is they require a certain climate. Heat pumps take in outside air and convert it to heat, then transfer the heat to the water (to see more about how this works, see how heat pumps work). This means for a heat pump to work properly it needs to be in an area with air temperature of about 45 degrees or higher. But the higher the air temperature the more heat can be extracted and converted; were as with a pool heater you can use it anywhere in any conditions.
Next and to a lot of people the most important variable you need to consider when choosing between a heat pump and heater is the purchase price and cost to operate. This is where it might sway someone’s opinion to go with the heat pump or the heater because the heat pump has a much higher upfront cost. This is compensated for by the amount of money you save over time but not everyone wants to pay about twice as much when they don’t have too. The heat pump uses half the amount of gas to get the same BTU and about a quarter amount of electricity of a electric heater. So if you're going to be running it constantly, the heat pump will more than pay for itself.
The install of a heater varies depending on the type but a gas or propane heater can be quite expensive to have a line ran to the unit. Electric heaters and heat pumps require that a electrical run be made up and should typically cost less.
Heat Pump
Heater
Pros
Much lower operating costs
Better for the environment
Inexpensive and easy to install
Cons
Require proper air temperature
Higher initial cost
Pros
Can be used in any environment
Electric heater is inexpensive and easy to install
Lower purchase price
Offer more units with higher BTU’s
Cons
Offer more units with higher BTU’s
Cost more to operate
A swimming pool heat pump is the most efficient way to heat your pool, assuming you have the right conditions. Even with the higher initial cost, the long term effects on your wallet and on the environment are worth paying the extra upfront.
People have been expressing questions about salt chlorine cells, so we would like to take a few moments and go over some commonly asked questions when it comes to your salt chlorine cell.
Why do salt cells fail?
Salt cells can fail for a few different reasons; one could be the lack of checking to see if the cell has excess buildup regularly. This makes sure excess calcium isn’t caked onto the metallic plates. Another reason could be the cell wears out over time just like any functioning part, most manufactures offer a warranty for a certain amount of years and if it fails within this time period they will replace it.
Can I replace it myself?
Absolutely, replacing a salt cell is rather simple (we have a whole article dedicated to replacing your salt cell) and just involves turning off the pump, disconnecting the cell and replacing with a new one.
How can I test to see if my cell is working properly?
The easiest way to do this is to test your water balance regularly for the pH and chlorine levels. If the chlorine level is dropping might mean your salt chlorine generator might not be producing enough chlorine. Also most systems control unit come with some kind of alert you of low salt and chlorine levels, if this is something you don’t want to worry about make sure to check the model before you purchase a system.
How can I clean my salt cell?
If your salt cell doesn’t have that much buildup you might be able to clean it with water pressure once its disconnected from the plumbing but if not then follow these instructions:
To clean your salt cell you need to turn off the power and remove the cell from your plumbing. After you have it removed, you need to mix up 1 part hydrochloric acid and 5 parts water in a suitable container (Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection, it is acid your dealing with here). Now soak your cell for 3 – 5 minutes and rinse, visually inspect the cell to make sure its clean and replace.
How often should I clean my cell?
Proper maintenance is the key to making anything last longer so to get the most out of your salt cell we recommend inspecting the cell once a week during heavy use and every other week during the off season. Upon inspection if you notice build up, clean as necessary.
Now that you are more informed about what you can expect with your salt chlorine generator, maintenance should be easy so you can concentrate on enjoying your pool.
A robotic swimming pool cleaner is a great investment for any pool owner and with the innovations within these great cleaners now is a perfect time to upgrade. There are many options for what cleaner to go with but one company has been on the leading edge of robotic pool cleaners, that company is Maytronics. This company produces some of the best robotic pool cleaners and today we are going to compare two of them, the Dolphin Advantage and the Dolphin Pro.
These two cleaners are fairly close to the same except for a few features which means you get the same great cleaning and filtration while saving money on energy costs. Both cleaners are self contained units that only need to be plugged into a outlet and set in the pool to work.
The differences come down to the features and capabilities, of each cleaner. The Dolphin Pro comes with a 65 ft. cord and the Dolphin Advantage comes with a 50 ft cord. So if your pool is on the larger side you should consider the Dolphn Pro.
Each of these cleaners saves you up to 50% on your electricity and backwashing costs and up to 30% on your chemical costs. It does so by using a micron filter bag to filter the water as it cleans, thus requiring less chemicals to clean the water.
Dolphin Advantage
Dolphin Pro
And of course one of the biggest differences are the cleaner colors, if you couldn’t already tell. So if the teal, yellow and red color scheme isn’t working for you, go with the Dolphin Pro Cleaner.
There are many choices when it comes to salt chlorinators so to make a little more sense of it all were going to show you the differences between the Zodiac DuoClear system and the Pool Frog Hybrid system.
Whats the same?
Both of these systems offer salt generated chlorine and natural mineral water sanitization in one unit, both working in relatively the same manner. Each can be added to your existing filter plumbing and set up relatively easy. The big differences come down to the features.
The DuoCLear:
Zodiac has outfitted the DuoClear with a nice variety of features that can make life easier. One feature is the superchlorinate which allows you to boost the chlorine level to compensate for heavy use or increases in temperature or rainfall with the push of one button.
The control panel has indicators for the level of chlorine output, when salt needs to be added, no flow warning and cartridge level indicator lights to show cartridge status. The control panel is also equipped with a backup battery in case power is lost it will still work and retain all the settings.
These features come along with the sanitizing power of the Nature 2 mineral technology, in systems that can support from 25,000 to 45,000 gallon pools.
Overview:
Automated chlorine generation and sanitization
Easy to use interface and setup
More features for greater control of salt and chlorine levels
Uses Nature2 technology to sanitize the pool water
Price:
25,000 gallon system: $859.95 (Note: This price does NOT include the mineral cartridge, the cartridge is $89.95 bringing the total to $949.90)
The Pool Frog Hybrid:
King technology has used the same formula of putting their mineral sanitizer together with a salt chlorinator to offer the Pool Frog Hybrid. Working the relatively same way as the DuoClear, the Pool Frog Hybrid uses the Pool Frog mineral cartridge to help sanitize the water while the salt cell generates the chlorine.
This system doesn’t offer as many features as the DuoClear which keeps things simple. You select your salt level and that’s pretty much it. The control panel has salt level indicator lights to let you know where the salt level is at. But none of the more advanced features are included and this is reflected in the price as well.
The pool Frog Hybrid comes in two systems, one for pools up to 20,000 gallons and one for up to 40,000 gallons.
Overview:
Automated chlorine generation and sanitization
Easy to use interface and setup
Lacks extra features
Uses the Pool Frog mineral cartridge to sanitize
Price:
20,000 gallon system: $649.95 This price includes everything you need to use it right out of the box
Conclusion:
If you need a system that is flexible or in an environment that has extreme condition or rapidly changing conditions, I would recommend the DuoClear. Even with it being extra money, it will save you more time, money and hassle later on down the road. But if you’re in a stable area and don’t really need the extra functionality, save yourself some money and go with the Pool Frog Hybrid.
During the life of your pool you are going to have to do some repairs whether it’s your pump, filter or valve, it’s one of the many joys of being a pool owner. This is also true if you use a salt chlorinator to sanitize your water. With the life expectancy of about 3 – 5 years it won’t be a normal maintenance item but you should be prepared for when the day comes.
Salt chlorine systems might be a bit confusing to just how exactly they work and how they can make the water clean with salt but we have a great article about how salt chlorinators work to get your water silky smooth. The process to change your salt cell is actually pretty easy but varies depending on what system you’re using. It is important to turn off your pump and close off any valves prior to the cell before you start and open the air relief valve on your filter to release the pressure.
If you’re using a system like the Zodiac DuoClear that actually hold the cell within a container, replacing your cell is quite easy and all you have to is unscrew the lid and pop out the old cell and insert a new one and re attach the lid. That’s it. Here is an example:
Another system that uses its own manifold is the Autopilot bypass manifold with a sc-36 salt cell, this manifold is used to make sure the proper water flow is passed through the cell. This salt cell is just as easy to replace, you only need to unscrew the ends and slide the cell out and replace:
Other salt chlorine systems use a inline cell that is plumbed in and should be replaced the same way as the other two, just unscrew the ends and replace your cell, a couple examples of these are the Zodiac LM-2 and the Goldline Turbocell:
As you might already know, salt chlorination is the latest trend that sweeping the pool world. With its eco-friendly benefits and superior water quality, it’s easier to see why people would prefer the use of a salt chlorinator. The Pool Frog Hybrid pool care system is no exception. Not only does the Pool Frog Hybrid give you the benefits of using chlorine generated from salt, but you also take advantage of Pool Frogs mineral sanitizer all in one unit!
The Pool Frog Hybrid accomplishes this by using a mineral reservoir to help reduce and control bacteria and algae, while simultaneously producing chlorine from salt and delivering it into the pool water. This really gives you the best of alternative sanitizers in one package.
The Pool Frog Hybrid is an easy to install and easy to use system that can be added to your existing pool filter plumbing. Without the need to program the control unit, you can just set the dial to your desired salt level and that’s it.
Not only is the Pool Frog Hybrid easy to setup but maintenance is simple as well, the mineral reservoir should be replaced every season and the salt cell plates should be visually inspected periodically. The salt cell has a unique cleaning technology that continuously cleans the cell plates to reduce buildup.
The Pool Frog Hybrid works on all types pools from plaster to fiberglass and comes in two different models one from pools up to 25,000 gallons and one for up to 40,000 gallons. The Pool Frog can be used in high flow pools or pool filter systems that use high pressure or even in-floor cleaning systems.
With the affordable price and great results, the Pool Frog Hybrid is an excellent addition to any pool.
The Pentair Prowler line of robotic swimming pool cleaners are some of the latest in pool cleaner innovation. With the Prowler 710, Pentair combines functionality with affordability to bring you a great all in one package.
The Prowler 710 is a simple easy to use robotic cleaner that will make cleaning your pool hassle free. The design allows your pool to be cleaned quickly and efficiently, scrubbing, vacuuming and filtering all at once. The 710 will work on any pool shape of residential in-ground pool.
Some key features of Prowler 710 include:
Can clean any shape pool in about a hour
Independently filters algae and bacteria
Capable of scrubbing floor, walls, water line and most pool steps
Large capacity cleaner bag to extend time in between cleanings
Reduce your filters run time up to 25%
Jet drive propulsion for efficient cleaning
60 ft cord
The Pentair Prowler 710 robotic pool cleaner is a great and affordable way to get rid of your old suction or pressure cleaner and start saving money every time you clean.
The latest in pool lighting technology is the use of LED lights to create rich, vibrant colors that can change and create “light shows” underwater. Older pool lights use traditional incandescent bulbs to light up the water, this old technology would be like comparing VHS tapes (the incandescent bulbs) to DVD (the LED lights) movies.
Which consumers trying to be as energy conscious as possible, the LED would be perfect for any pool owner. For example,
"IntelliBrite LED pool lights need only 37 watts to create the same light output as traditional incandescent and halogen pool lights do at 161 watts—more than 75% less! And IntelliBrite spa lights use only 23 watts for the same light output compared to 47 watts for traditional lights…" –Pentair.
Not only does this mean that LED lights use less energy and are better for the environment but they save you money as well with lower energy bills.
Now what about life span you might ask, which one would last longer? Well a typical incandescent bulb lasts about 5,000 hours where the LED is rated to last about 30,000+ hours! This is because LED’s are made from durable materials the run much cooler than regular incandescent bulbs.
The ability to change and fade different colors of light is what leads a lot of people to choose a LED light system for their pool. By being able to change the color or set up a color display with the flip of a switch is something that incandescent light just can’t do.
All in all, the better choice is the LED pool lighting system, the only thing that’s better about the incandescent lighting is the initial cost is less than the LED. But over time you will be actually saving money in energy and bulb replacement costs.
The Jandy Aqua Pure 1400 salt chlorine generator is the perfect addition to your pool to take advantage of the cutting edge technology for your pool. The Aqua Pure utilizes ordinary salt that you add to your pool water, as the water passes through the titanium plates it is converted into chlorine. This process keeps repeating to keep your pool clean without having to use extra chemicals.
The Aqua Link 1440 is a easy and economical way to keep your pool crystal clear and feeling great automatically. Some of the other features that make the Aqua Link unique are:
The long lasting solid titanium plates
Automatic super chlorination to shock the water
LCD display provides information about chlorine production, temperature, water flow, salinity, cell modes and service codes when necessary
can be installed vertically and horizontally
Automatic reversing cycle for less maintenance
The Jandy Aqua Pure 1400 is the only salt chlorinator that will work to communicate with the wired and wireless AquaLink RS controls for a more complete system control. The AquaPure also features a audible alarm that will go off under certain circumstances to let you know that something is wrong.
With robust features and the ability to be integrated into your Aqualink control system, the AquaPure 1400 is a great salt chlorinator for anyone trying to make the most out of their pool while eliminating a lot of the hassle associated with your swimming pool sanitization.
The Virginia Graeme Baker pool and safety act is a law that was passed on December 18th 2007 to prevent entrapment of children in pool drains. The act was named after the granddaughter of former secretary of state James A. Baker, as she was tragically killed in 2002 at the age of 7 after she became entrapped in the suction of a drain in a spa.
This law prohibits manufacturers from selling drain covers that don’t meet the specific safety requirements. These drain covers must be made to avoid entrapment in the bottom of a pool or spa. This ensures that all drain covers on the market will comply with the safety precautions.
The law also affects public pools by making them use drain covers that are within compliance as well as other layers of protection such as safety vacuum release systems (SVRS).
Manufacturers have started producing equipment to better suit these new standards in safety, such as the intelliflo VS pool pump. This pump is equipped with a SVRS system that can detect and blockage and immediately stops the pump.
This law is precaution that every pool owner should take, as it went into effect as of December of 2008. If you have a drain cover that wasn’t purchased after the law went into effect, it would be a good idea to replace your drain cover. This little bit of precaution can save a tremendous amount of heartache and give you peace of mind.
You can learn more about the Virginia Graeme Baker pool and safety act at the bills web site
