How Chlorine Generators Work to Keep Your Pool Clean & Safe

Summer is quickly approaching and that means that warmer weather is well on its way. A popular activity on the days where the heat is sweltering is to cool off by taking a refreshing dip in a swimming pool.

Maintaining a safe and sanitary state of your pool can be a difficult and expensive task. With a chlorine water pool, the sun beats down on the water, and the chemicals that keep the water free of bacteria and germs are constantly evaporating. This can lead to you having to purchase and pour in chemicals every other day or so to maintain proper levels. A great investment you can make in your pool is to purchase a chlorine generator.

What does it do?

With a salt water pool system, the pool water passes through a pump that creates chlorine from salt. As it passes through the pump, salt water is turned into hypochlorous acid. The acid is the exact same component that is produced if you were to add chlorine tablets, powder or liquid to your pool. The pump works to produce chlorine constantly. When the water comes out of the generator, the newly produced chlorine will enter the pool and work to prevent algae, bacteria and other micro-organisms. An important thing to note about chlorine generators is that in order to get results you must maintain a proper pH level. As long as you do this, the chlorine pump will work perfectly!

Types of Chlorine Generators

There are two different types of generators that are commonly used in pools. The most popular, and recommended, is a salt chlorine generator. With this generator, it is required that salt be added to the water to get the best results. The other type of chlorine generator is a brine unit. This type does not require that the pool have salt added to it. Instead, the tank or chamber has a predetermined amount of salt in it, which allows the generator to inject chlorine in to the pool circulation system.

What are the benefits?

Besides saving you time and money that you would normal spend on manually adding chlorine to your pool, chlorine generators have many additional benefits. For one, generators precisely maintain chlorine levels that are consistent, eliminating issues due to levels that are either too high or too low. When it comes to pool chemicals, many people experience irritation, dried out skin or burning eyes. Salt water pools reduce or completely eliminate these irritations and will also prevent bleached-out swimsuits and hair. If the smell of traditional chlorine pool water bothers you, with salt chlorine generators, that smell is significantly less noticeable since the water has salt in it. While the cost of purchasing and installing these devices may be high, you will benefit ten times that with all of the work the generator does.

As you start to plan your summer around your pool, consider buying a chlorine generator to keep your pool safe and clean while saving yourself significant money in the long run. Shop through our selection of chlorine generators and other supplies to satisfy all of your pool needs!

If you have any questions or would like an experienced representative to assist you in choosing the best chlorine generator for your pool and needs, please visit us at www.thepoolguystore.com.

Jandy Water Feature Pump- Product Spotlight

Ready to make a splash? With today’s modern water features, you can turn your backyard into a luxurious pool paradise easier than ever. When re-designing your backyard and deciding on what water features you want in your own yard, it’s important to remember you also need quality equipment to keep your water running smoothly. The Jandy Water Feature Pump is the perfect solution for powering all your medium-head water features.

Energy Efficient – The Water Feature Pump is ideal for almost any backyard water feature. As a component of Jandy’s Energy Smart Products, the Water Feature Pump is available in three sizes and was designed to save you energy and minimize your operating cost. The design of this high-flow Jandy pump guarantees optimum performance, so you can run your water features whenever you want while conserving energy and saving money.

Quiet & Easy to Install – Featuring “Quiet Technology,” the Water Feature Pump runs quietly so you can enjoy your waterfalls, jets and other water features without the rumbling of a motor in the background. This Jandy pump is also easy to install. All Jandy pumps allow for “inline” connectivity so you can seamlessly integrate your pump with your choice of Jandy water features. The Water Feature pump also has:

• An ultra-compact body
• 2” by 2 ½” quick-connect unions
• A flared base for easy anchoring
• An ergonomic cam-lock lid with easy alignment indicators

When you’re searching for the best water pump for waterfalls, search no further than Jandy’s Water Feature Pump. Guaranteed the best pump for water features, with Jandy’s Water Feature Pump you can power your paradise while reducing your energy usage and enabling cost savings. For more information visit us at The Pool Guy Store today, and feel free to contact us if you have any questions! We’re always happy to assist.

Water Tech Blue Diamond In-Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner - Review

When you’re searching for the highest quality automatic pool cleaner on the market, search no further than the Water Tech Blue Diamond In-Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner. The Blue Diamond is able to clean even the largest in-ground pools in less than an hour and comes with the longest parts warranty in the industry – 4 years!

This powerful robotic cleaner works efficiently and effectively by using the best chemical and algae resistant Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) brushes available. The Aqua Smart guidance systems helps the unit target the dirtiest areas of your pool while the obstacle sensor prevents it from getting stuck and the beach entry detector prevents it from leaving the water. These features make the Blue Diamond robotic cleaner up to twenty times faster than other pool cleaners.

The Water Tech Blue Diamond In-Ground Pool Cleaner:

• Includes a caddy cart for easy transport
• Includes an internal, reusable microfilter bag
• Is approved for use by ETL, CSA, TUV, CE & GS
• Is one of the safest robotic cleaners, running on 24 volts with an oil-free motor
• Will operate on any type of pool surface
• Does not require floats

Anyone who owns a pool understands how daunting and time consuming pool maintenance can be. However, when you have the best in-ground pool cleaner helping you out, you can spend more time enjoying your pool and less time cleaning it. This pool cleaner is guaranteed to last for years to come and will keep your pool sparkling, sanitary and free of both small and large debris – from sand, silt and algae to leaves and gravel.

The Blue Diamond is also available in a remote control version, the Blue Diamond RC, offering all the features of the standard model but also allows you to control where the unit cleans from up to 30 feet away. When manually controlled, the Blue Diamond can further reduce cleaning time by seeking out and removing debris quickly and efficiently.

The Blue Diamond and the Blue Diamond RC are in-stock and ship for free from The Pool Guy Store. Visit us today at www.thepoolguystore.com to place your order or to speak with one of our experienced representatives!

Shipping Container Pools to Inspire You

With temperatures already on the rise, it’s hard to picture braving the summer heat without a pool right outside in your backyard. Unfortunately, building an in-ground pool is a costly investment and cheaper above-ground pools are pretty unsightly when you’ve got them sitting in the middle of your yard year round.

But with all of the upcycling and re-purposing trends of recent years, shipping containers have emerged as a completely viable alternative to dumping over $20,000 into building a pool. While they are traditionally used to ship massive amounts of cargo to and from far-away lands, people have been re-purposing shipping containers to build their homes, restaurants, and even schools. And why not – the average shipping life of such a container is 10 to 14 years (even though they last for years beyond that), so there’s literally thousands of shipping containers out there that will never be used for cargo again and are ready to be salvaged into someone’s backyard oasis.

(nola.com)

While digging an in-ground pool requires building a pool shell for support, the steel frame of a shipping container already has strong mounting points and is structurally sound enough to act as the pool shell. As long as the shipping container has been water-sealed and painted with anti-corrosion paint, all you really have to worry about is how to make the inside of it have the appeal of a pool instead of a large metal dumpster. Building a pool shell also tends to be costly so purchasing a relatively inexpensive shipping container for about $1,500 is a great way to cut down on expenses. The long rectangular design of shipping containers also makes them an ideal option for backyards that are lengthy, but not very deep.

German experimental architect Stefan Beese is no stranger to working with shipping containers – he has designed several structures out of them for various events and music festivals throughout Los Angeles and New Orleans, including Voodoo Fest. Having had experience with them and knowing their structural advantages, Beese decided to build his very own shipping container pool in the backyard of his family home in New Orleans.

With a little bit of high-density foam insulation for padding and a custom fit flexible pool liner, Beese outfitted the inside of the structure and then, inspired by Japanese bath houses, added wooden planks to create the walls and the deck to make the shipping container virtually unrecognizable. He has stated that the project set him back about $5,000 to $7,000 – a much more affordable price tag for anyone looking to build a pool!

Below you’ll find some more photos of shipping container pools for inspiration and be sure to also check out this video that shows how the structure also conveniently houses all of the pool mechanics.

Stefan Beese’s Japanese inspired backyard oasis.(treehugger.com)

A modern lap pool created from a shipping container.(houzz.com)

Filling a shipping container pool already in the ground.(https://instagram.com/p/LimdUuJKqr/)

An industrial looking above-ground shipping container pool.(http://premiershippingcontainers.com.au/)

Would you ever consider setting up your own shipping container pool? Let us know in the comments below, and if you just got your brand new pool up and running or you need to replace some old parts, be sure to visit The Pool Guy Store for all of your necessary swimming pool supplies!

Pentair R151186 All-in-One 4 Way Pool Test Kit - Review

If you’ve moved into a home with a backyard pool or you’ve recently completed a new pool installation, you might find there’s more to keeping up with a pool than you originally thought. Not only do you have to regularly remove debris from your pool and maintain the water level, you also have to maintain a safe amount of chemicals (like chlorine) and a safe pH level.

While the manual labor may not be the most fun part of owning a pool, testing your swimming pool water for pH levels, chlorine, acid demand and total alkalinity is easy with Pentair’s All-in-One 4 Way Test Kit. This pool test kit is simple to use, yet gives you all the information you need to determine your pool’s health.

The All-in-One 4 Way Test Kit comes with:

• Detailed instructions (including Spanish instructions)
• Chlorine, pH, acid demand & total alkalinity tests
• Lucite test cell with wide standards
• No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, 1/2 oz, No. 4, No. 5, reagents
• Water test booklet
• Blue box for organized storage

Because this swimming pool test kit covers 4 areas, you no longer have to worry about purchasing separate chlorine test kits, pH testing kits, etc. This All-in-One pool test kit is easy enough for anyone to use – from teens working summer jobs, to seniors maintaining their home pool.

The 78HR All-in-One 4 Way Test Kit comes with detailed instructions, a measuring cup and liquid formulas to make testing as simple and quick as possible. Unlike most individual chlorine test kits, pH testing kits, and many other bundled pool test kits, this All-in-One swimming pool test kit is refillable, so you save money as well as time.

When you need to test the chemical levels in your pool and don’t want to buy new testing kits regularly, the Pentair 78HR All-in-One 4 Way Test Kit is the only way to go. The Pool Guy Store is proud to offer this efficient and accurate pool test kit at a competitive price. Visit us at www.thepoolguystore.com today for more information or to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable representatives.

How to Convert Your Hot Tub to a Saltwater Hot Tub

For thousands of years, humans have used hot tubs for both recreational and restorative purposes. While freshwater hot tubs have been the norm for centuries, today we know hot tubs that use salt water actually provide more impactful benefits than freshwater tubs, such as extended tension relief, reduced swelling and improved skin appearance. Additionally, salt water systems are easier to maintain, and the purification systems produce all the sanitizer you need - all from natural salt!

Interested in converting your traditional hot tub to a saltwater hot tub? You can! Convert your freshwater hot tub to a saltwater hot tub in 6 easy steps!

1. Ensure Your Hot Tub Can Handle Saltwater – Not all hot tubs are made equally. Before you start the conversion process, you need to ensure you hot tub is salt water compatible. Check your manual or contact your supplier to ensure there are no metal or plastic parts that will corrode or be damaged by saltwater.
2. Get a Salt Chlorine Generator – The first real step in converting your hot tub to a salt water spa is obtaining a salt chlorine generator that is rated for the size of your hot tub. You should also search for generators that have a salt concentration readout, so you don’t have to test the salt concentration separately.
3. Drain Your Tub – In order to create a pure hot tub salt water system, you first need to drain all the chemically treated water from your hot tub. Most hot tubs can be drained via a bottom drain spout, however you can also use a simple garden hose as a syphoning hose. If you have trouble draining your hot tub, contact a professional for help before proceeding.
4. Add New Water & Salt – Once your tub has been drained and cleaned, add fresh new water and run the hot tub for a minute to dilute any remaining chemicals. Finally, you’re ready to add salt. Remember to purchase salt that is suitable for hot tubs (i.e. no table salt)! You should add about 2.5lbs for every 100 gallons of water your hot tub holds. Tip: Pour the salt away from water intakes, so granules don’t enter the circulation system.
5. Install the Salt Chlorine Generator – In many cases, installing a salt chlorine generator can easily be done. If your generator installation requires piping however, you may want to contact a professional who can install it correctly.
6. Enjoy Your Salt Water Hot Tub – And you’re done! Now you can run your hot tub as you normally would, while enjoying a more eco and health friendly at-home spa experience.

If you’re interested in a hot tub salt water system, know you don’t have to purchase a completely new hot tub. Most hot tubs can handle salt water, so most hot tubs can be converted. To find salt chlorine generators, high-quality salt cells that are suitable for hot tubs, and even more hot tub accessories, visit us at www.thepoolguystore.com today.

Aquatic Exercise – Why You Should Be Exercising In a Pool

There are many benefits of swimming including relaxation, pain relief and, of course, exercise. While it’s no secret that hitting the pool is an excellent way to get the heart pumping and burn some calories, there seems to be a misconception that aquatic exercise is primarily for the super-fit triathlete training for his or her next race or use as aquatic therapy for older populations suffering from arthritis.

But what if you fall somewhere in between? Will a water workout still be beneficial and a good use of the little training time you have?

The answer: Yes!

The benefits of exercising in water are numerous and offer something for everyone, no matter what age or level of fitness.

Reduction of Stress Placed on Joints

The natural buoyancy of water reduces the impact, or stress, placed on joints. Exercising in water allows you to get a great workout while reducing the amount of ware-and-tear placed on your body. Even though you may not suffer from sore joints or other degenerative symptoms now, our bodies are machines, and just like all machines, daily use and stresses accumulate over time, eventually tiring the system increasing the chances of future injuries, aches and pains, and loss of range of motion. We only get one body, so it’s important to protect it now!

Safe & Effective Way to Increase Resistance

Thanks to a wide variety of pool exercise equipment, running, cycling and other exercises aimed at increasing overall strength can be performed in water. The water provides an additional source of resistance without placing direct loads on delicate joints and is a safer way to overload muscles (which is how our bodies get stronger) compared to wearing weighted vests, etc. All-in-all, working out in water is a fun and effective way to make your workouts tougher and can make you faster out of the water without the risk of injury.

Stay Cool While Working Out on Hot Days

This is a perk that is especially beneficial for those living in places where summer temps can become unbearably hot. Taking your workout session to the pool will help your body stay cool and help prevent hyperthermia, a condition where the body can no longer regulate its temperature resulting in dangerous overheating. So the next time you want to workout during the hottest hours of the day, take it to pool!

And if you have sore muscles after a tough work out, be sure to hit the hot tub to relieve tired and achy muscles!

Check out some of these water exercises you can do in the pool that don’t require any additional equipment!

The AqquACTIVE Stationary Exercise Bike for Your Pool

The AqquACTIVE Bike is a stationary exercise bike designed for use in home, community and commercial swimming pools. One of three pieces of aquatic exercise equipment made by Aqquatix, the AqquACTIVE upright exercise bike is recommended for fitness training, rehabilitation exercises or just for fun.

The AqquACTIVE pool bike is popular among those suffering from arthritis, joint pain or any other number of musculoskeletal injuries because it allows for a low impact exercise that is effective, safe and fun. When doing aquatic exercise, the water buoyancy lowers the risk of stress-related injuries especially in the joints, as it allows the muscles to work their full range of motion.

Its innovative and functional 316L stainless steel frame design provides stability and durability without making the bike too heavy to safely move in and out of the pool.

The amount of resistance provided during the workout comes from the water as well as the built-in adjustable resistance that you can tailor to your personal fitness and comfort levels.

The AqquACTIVE Bike Features:

• Perfectly balanced, well-designed bases with four PVC suction cups to ensure maximum stability
• Rubber wheels attached to the base allows the bike to be lowered into or removed from the pool easily

• Adjustable resistance which allows aqua cycling at different levels of effort
• Multi-position handle bars
• Fully customizable handle bar and seat positions
• Slide-in foot pedals

Product Specifications:

• Material: Stainless Steel
• Size: 26 x 48 Inches
• Water Depth: 40 to 55 Inches
• Weight: 43 Pounds

It is recommended that you remove the bike from the pool when not in use, and if used in a salt water or thermal pool, be sure to rinse thoroughly with fresh water to avoid build-up of chemical deposits and residues.

Check out this video to see the AqquACTIVE in action!

For more information or to order the AqquACTIVE Bike, visit www.thepoolguystore.com.

Solar Breeze Automatic Swimming Pool Surface Skimmer

The Solar Breeze is a one-of-a-kind, technologically intelligent automatic pool skimmer that harnesses the power of the sun to keep your pool free of leaves, bugs and other surface debris. With the Solar Breeze pool skimmer, you can say goodbye to hand skimming and effortlessly ensure that your pool is always swim ready.

This powerful pool surface skimmer easily moves along the surface of your pool removing leaves and other debris that has made their way into your pool. Use the Solar Breeze on a regular basis to minimize required cleaning and lessen the demand placed on your pool filtration system by stopping debris from sinking to the bottom of the pool. Reducing the burden placed on your pool filter means you save on energy costs and reduce the amount of wear-and-tear placed on your expensive system.

It is able to operate on solar power alone, and is also equipped with internal storage batteries, completely eliminating any required electrical connections and operates on hundreds, if not thousands times less energy compared to competing pool cleaners.

The Solar Breeze doubles as a pool chemical dispenser; it can hold two 3” tablets.

Check out the full features of the Solar Breeze:

• Robotic, solar powered pool skimmer
• Easy on-off switch
• Powered by two solar panels
• Evenly dispenses pool cleaning and sanitizing chemicals as it removes surface debris
• Able to reverse its way out of corners and move seamlessly along pool walls
• Capacity: can hold about 2x what a traditional skimmer basket can hold
• Easy slide out tray for easy debris disposal

To use the Solar Breeze, once it is fully charged, simply switch it ‘on’ and drop it into your pool. And the best part is, you will not need to remove the cleaner from your pool to be re-charged. It will charge each day while in the pool.

If you already have or are working towards having a “green”, environmentally- friendly pool, the Solar Breeze is a no brainer.

Check out this video for a full product review and to see the Solar Breeze in action:

Read what real-life customers have to say about the Solar Breeze by clicking here.

If you have any questions about the Solar Breeze or would like more information, please visit us at www.thepoolguystore.com.

The Solar Breeze ships for FREE from The Pool Guy Store.

Jandy AquaLink® RS OneTouch™ Pool Controller Review

Advanced pool and spa controls like the Jandy AquaLink RS OneTouch allow you to customize your pool and spa equipment with the touch of a single button. The AquaLink RS OneTouch pool control system houses its advanced technology within a compact, sleek, and fully customizable control panel that will easily blend into any home decor.

The AquaLink RS OneTouch system has the ability to command 31 auxiliaries, filtration systems, chemical automation, precision temperature settings, pump speeds, diagnostics, and multiple mood settings for maximum user control.

Other features include:

• OneTouch feature allows for a “set it and forget it” experience
• Manage water temperature, jets, cleaner, lights and heater from anywhere
• Sensors ensure automatic freeze protection
• Heater cool down and system lockout modes protect expensive equipment
• Scheduled activation of cleaning equipment functions helps maximize energy savings
• Automatic and efficient filtration cycles allows for more play and relax time
• Switch from pool to spa with a touch of a button or schedule a set time
• Control various water features with the touch of a button

Other optional control features allow for further customization. You can choose to control your pool and spa settings from inside your home or from any Internet device. The AquaLink RS OneTouch works with web-enabled mobile devices to monitor, adjust, and program your pool’s equipment.

The AquaLink RS One Touch pool and spa control system utilizes recent software enhancements that allow for even further customization. Now you can increase your energy savings by activating seasonal adjustments which automatically optimize your filtration and purification based on your specific seasonal needs.

The Pool Guy Store offers the AquaLink RS OneTouch system in a wide range of sizes with various optional features so it’s easy to find the one that fits your needs. If you have any questions about the AquaLink RS or need help deciding which configuration model is right for you, please visit us at www.thepoolguystore.com for additional information or to speak with one of our experienced representatives.

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Product Spotlight: BioGuard Pool Closing Chemicals

Once you’ve decided to close up your pool for winter, you’ll realize that it’s not as simple as throwing a cover on it and calling it a day. You’ll need a variety of winterizing chemicals and products to ensure that your pool will still be in great shape come spring and summer. That’s why the BioGuard line of pool closing chemicals and products are a great option for pool owners because they provide you with a great selection of products that all work together to keep your pool in tiptop shape over the winter.

BioGuard Arctic Blue Shock

This off-season winter pool shock from BioGuard should be your first step in effectively winterizing your pool. The Arctic Blue shock restores water clarity and acts as an oxidizer, buffer, and clarifier all through the winter season. The BioGuard off-season shock works with all pool surfaces, and it will make your job that much easier when it’s time to reopen!

BioGuard Winter Algicide

A bottle of BioGuard Winter Algicide will be your best friend this winter by making sure you don’t have to deal with unsightly, hard-to-clean algae in your pool when you reopen it for the summer. The BioGuard algicide formula is more affordable than other products, and it’s also non-staining and non-corrosive so the chemicals will fight off algae without harming your pool surface.

BioGuard Winter Floater WP

This silk winter floater from BioGuard has a unique design that ensures two ½ lb. chlorinating sticks will stay well below the winter cover line throughout the off season. This will provide your pool with a continuous chlorination during the winter, keeping your pool clean and sanitized. This product in particular is best used for white plaster pools only.

BioGuard Arctic Blue Algae Protector

The Arctic Blue Algae Protector is another anti-algae product that helps prevent algae growth of all types during the winter. The BioGuard formula is designed to be used in chlorinated or brominated pools and can be used in pools of all surface and filter types. You won’t need to do any mixing or pre-dissolving with this product before using it.

BioGuard Arctic Blue Winter Kits

To get more for your money and to save time picking out all of your individual winterizing chemicals, just order one of these BioGuard Arctic Blue Winter Kits. These kits are available in two different sizes, one to treat 12,000 gallons and the other to treat 24,000 gallons of pool water. Each kit contains the Arctic Blue Algae Protector, the Arctic Blue Shock, instructions on how to winterize your pool, and coupons for valuable savings!

All of these products and more are available at The Pool Guy Store! Check back for frequent tips and updates on pool maintenance, spa living, and all things pool and spa related!

Winterizing a Pool Vs. Keeping a Pool Open for Winter

For pool owners faced with the inevitable coming of winter, they must decide whether to winterize the pool and close it up for the season or keep it open and operate it all year around. Both options entail a number of advantages and disadvantage. To learn more about which winter option is best for you, read on about the pros and cons of winterizing a pool and of operating it all year round.

Winterizing Your Pool

Pros:

If you don’t want to have to worry about maintaining your pool during the months that it won’t be swimmable, then choosing to winterize and close your pool for the cold weather season may be the right option for you. Winterizing a pool refers to the process of thoroughly cleaning it and adding in special winterizing chemicals to keep your pool in good shape while the cover stays on all winter.

As mentioned before, the main benefit of winterizing your pool is not having to maintain it throughout the cold weather season. Plus, shutting down your pool system for winter, which includes clearing all of the water out of the system’s pump, means you won’t have to worry about frozen or bursting pipes when the temperature drops below freezing.

TIP: Pools located in areas where extreme winter climates are common will mostly likely be better off being closed down for winter.

Cons:

However, there are some negatives involved with closing the pool for winter that all pool owners should take into consideration before making a decision. For one, a lot of work is involved with cleaning out and closing down a pool system for winter. If you are doing it yourself, you’ll need to set aside a good amount of time to completely and thoroughly clean the pool and to make sure every drop of water is removed from the pump system. On top of that, you should expect to spend some more time reopening the pool in the spring once the weather permits.

Operating Your Pool All Year Around

Pros:

After reading about winterizing your pool and the lack of maintenance and cleaning you’ll have to do throughout the winter, you may have jumped to the conclusion that winterizing is the right option for you. However, there are many advantages to keeping your pool open all year long. Even when the water is too cold to swim in, pools look beautiful all year around. Imagine the still, crisp blue water of your pool surrounded by a blanket of white snow—sounds stunning, right? Just because your pool can’t be used for recreational purposes doesn’t mean it can’t still serve an aesthetic purpose.

Even though keeping a pool open for winter means maintaining it all season long, the weekly cleanings will be much less time consuming than the preparations involved in closing the pool down completely and then having to reopen it again for the spring and summer. Constant maintenance means you won’t have to deal with algae accumulating on the pool floor, which can sometimes take several days to clean up when reopening for spring.

TIP: If you live in a warm region where below freezing temperatures are not extremely common, definitely take advantage of it by operating your pool all year around!

Cons:

As could be expected, operating a pool all year around is more costly when it comes to electricity. In order to avoid bursting pipes due to frozen water in your pump, you’ll have to keep the pump on continuously throughout the winter. This can lead to at least several hundred extra dollars based on 4-6 months of extra usage. Plus, winter weather is often unpredictable, so in cases where your home loses electricity completely during below freezing temperatures, you won’t have any control over those pipes freezing up and potentially causing damage to your pump system.

Check back for more information and guidance related to your pool and spa needs brought to your by The Pool Guy Store!

How to Choose the Right Pool Heater

Getting the most out of your outdoor paradise means keeping the water warm enough to enjoy for as much of the year as possible. To keep your pool water heated during colder weather, or even just to boost water temperature on summer nights, consider installing a swimming pool heater as part of your pool system. There are three main types of pool heaters you can choose from:

Gas Heaters

Compared to any other type of swimming pool heaters, gas heaters by far have the cheapest price tag. Gas heaters also have an advantage over other types because of their ability to quickly warm up pool water. In fact, gas pool heaters are the fastest type of pool heater compared to others mentioned here. Since gas heaters burn propane or natural gas to create heat, they operate independently of outside air temperature or water.

On the downside, gas heaters are expensive to install and to operate ($500-600/month) and have a lifespan of only about 5 years. Gas heaters are best suited for pool owners in more extreme cold climates who want to keep the water heated the majority of the year.

Electric Heat Pumps

Electric heat pumps work much like central air conditioning systems. Rather than removing heat from inside your home to keep air cool, heat pumps take heat from outside air and use it to pump into your pool water to keep it warm. However, it doesn’t have to be 80°F+ outside for this to work. Electric heat pumps can extract useful energy from outdoor temperatures as low as 45°F. Advantages of this type of pool heater include lower operating costs (only $50-$150/month), high energy efficiency, and longer lifespan.

Unfortunately, these highly efficient heaters come with a hefty price tag. On average, an electric pool heater will run you between $2,000 and $4,000 big ones. And while they can still extract heat at temps as low as 45°F, if you live in extreme colder climates, this option would not be the best fit for your pool.

Solar Heaters

The last type of pool heater you can consider investing in is a solar powered heater. By far the most environmentally friendly, a solar pool heater will cost you ZERO additional monthly operating costs once installed! Plus, their lifespan is between 15-20 years, so you can count on it to be a reliable investment. This is the most environmentally friendly option since it uses renewable resources and emits no pollution.

But as you might have guessed, solar technology will cost you big time. How big? Anywhere between $4,000 to $7,000. Solar heaters are a great option for pools located in warmer, milder climates as they will be less reliant on a secondary pool heater during the winter. Since the solar panels take up a large portion of flat space, this option is only suited for pool owners with large enough roof configurations to install the panels.

Finding the right heater means taking into consideration not only cost, but also climate, lifespan, heating speed, and many other factors mentioned above. For more information about which pool heater is best for you, get in touch with us at ThePoolGuyStore.com, and we can help you find what you need from our great selection of products. Happy swimming!

Pentair MasterTemp Pool Heater

You’ve thought about it long enough, and the benefits of having a heated pool have finally outweighed the subconscious commentary of your inner naysayer who prefers the chilly waters of a heater-less pool! So what’s your next step? Deciding which of the many swimming pool heaters is the right one to get the job done. You’ll need something cost efficient, reliable, and easy to use if you want to get the most out of your newly heated pool. Luckily, we’ve already done the legwork for you. The Pool Guy Store would like to present: the Pentair MasterTemp pool heater.

When you decide to add a heater to your pool, you instantly increase the value of your pool dramatically by giving it use beyond the hot summer months. However, if you don’t want the costs of heating the pool to take away from this new found value, then you need to install a heater that will give you the best cost-savings through efficiency. It may not look like much, but this Pentair pool heater is a high performance, eco-friendly pool heater that can offer you best-in-class energy efficiency so you can be sure to keep that pool heater cost as low as possible. On top of the high-efficiency performance, the Pentair MasterTemp models also offer you these other remarkable features:

• Manual gas shut-off for maintenance and servicing
• Low NOx emission certification (it outperforms industry standards!)
• User-friendly indicator lights for easy system monitoring
• Rotating digital display for easy inspection
• Small design and ultra-quiet operation eliminate noisy disturbances
• Durable exterior for withstanding extreme weather and elements

Another reason why the Pentair MasterTemp is the best pool heater to invest in is its easy installation and use. It’s as simple as controlling the heating in your home. Simply choose an appropriate temperature for heating, and let the Pentair MasterTemp finish the job from there. You’ll be able to rely on this heater for years to come without worrying about excessive maintenance or replacement costs.

The amount of BTUs needed to heat your pool will depend on the pool’s size and the general climate in your area. But feat not, because the Pentair MasterTemp is offered at every BTU level you could possibly need. From the 175,000 BTU model all the way up to the 250,000 BTU level and everything in between, we’ve got you covered at The Pool Guy Store. Get in touch with our customer service team if you have any questions about which Pentair MasterTemp model will be best for keeping your perfect pool paradise warm all year around! Check back for more pool- and spa-related tips and tidbits, brought to you by The Pool Guy Store.

Product Spotlight: Water Tech Pool Blaster Battery Powered Leaf Vac

Cleaning the pool is a dreaded task for pool owners, especially after a long winter or a windy week has left the pool littered with leaves and other debris. Fortunately, you don’t have to let that pool cleaning anxiety take hold of you any longer. The Water Tech Pool Blaster Leaf Vac makes cleaning that unwanted filth easy with many convenient features, including:

• Battery operated and self-contained
• Adjustable height that fits standard pool poles
• High-velocity motor with safe blade technology
• Large volume leaf and debris bag

Fully Battery Operated

The best thing about this product is that it is fully self-contained and powered by AA batteries, so you don’t have to deal with the hassle of tangled power cords and limited mobility from pesky hoses. Eight AA batteries, which are included with your order, will keep this leaf vacuum operating for up to 3 hours, which is more than enough for several cleanings.

PRO TIP: Invest in a set of rechargeable AA batteries and save money while being environmentally-friendly!

Two-In-One Product

Another great feature of this battery powered leaf vac is it can also be used as a skimmer to clear debris from the surface of the water! Just flip the Pool Blaster vac upside-down in the water, with the suction bag floating beneath, hover the mouth of the vacuum under any unwelcome leaves or bugs and easily collect it all in the bag. This two-in-one leaf vacuum and leaf skimmer will save you time and money in the long run.

Integrated Drive Motor & Damage Prevention

With this battery powered leaf vac, you won’t have to rely on local water pressure thanks to its high-velocity, integrated drive motor that easily lifts leaves and dirt off the bottom of your pool without the need for troublesome hoses. The powerful, high-quality motor creates a vortex in the water to draw up debris and the safe blade technology ensures that the motor will disengage at the first sign of resistance so you won’t have to worry about causing accidental damage.

Get an in-depth look at the Water Tech Pool Blaster Leaf Vac by watching the video below!

About the Author: The Pool Guy Store provides discount pool supplies for above ground, in ground, and commercial swimming pools. For more information on products and services, please visit www.thepoolguystore.com.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Closing Your Pool for Winter

As the seasons transition from summer to fall, many of us look forward to a handful of exclusively autumn events like college football, Thanksgiving, and pumpkin spice lattes. We can even allow ourselves to start getting excited about the special aspects of the coldest months like Christmas, ice skating, and hot chocolate. Sadly though, the welcoming of fall inevitably means farewell to summer and all of its seasonal splendor: sunshine, beaches, sandals, snow cones, and of course, the pool.

Closing your pool for the colder seasons can seem as simple as throwing a cover on it and calling it a day. However, there are many common mistakes made by pool owners every year when it comes to winterizing a pool. The following guidelines for closing a pool will ensure that your pool is swimmer-friendly and ready for use by the first day of summer:

Take Your Time The most common mistake made by pool owners who are closing up for winter is speeding through the job. This practice is based on the common misconception that pools will unavoidably collect dirt and debris over the course of winter and need a full, deep cleaning come summer anyway. Lucky for you, this is wrong. If you take the time to thoroughly clean and close your pool properly for winter, you can expect swimmable water on opening day.

Clean Pools Are Happy Pools Even though cleaning the pool before closing seems like an obvious necessity, many pool owners still make the mistake of leaving debris in the water after it’s covered. While a small leaf floating on the surface may seem trivial, any amount of debris left in the water at closing will disturb the chemicals and leave you with an avoidable chore when opening your pool for the season. You’ll feel a huge sense of relief next spring when you realize another deep cleaning isn’t needed as long as you put in the work during winter.

Chemical Dump To ensure that you’ll maintain a healthy pool environment by the time spring rolls around, winterizing chemicals should be added to the pool water before a cover is attached. The biggest mistake made regarding these chemicals is overuse. In the case of winterizing chemicals, more is not better. Shoot for the following levels when closing your pool:

• pH: 7.2 to 7.6
• Alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
• Calcium hardness: 180 to 220 ppm

Unwanted Drainage Probably the most expensive mistake you could make when closing a pool is not properly draining your pumps and filtration systems. Removing “most” of the water will not suffice. In order to avoid bursting pipes or busted heaters, every drop of water should be drained. You can get rid of lingering moisture from your pool plumbing system with any kind of blow tool such as a leaf blower or a shop vacuum, which can remove exterior liquid as well as blow air from the skimmer through the equipment and back to the pool.

The best mentality to employ in regards to closing your pool is: more work now, no work later. The more care and effort you put into preparing a pool for the cold seasons, the less work you’ll need to do to ready it for spring and summer. The last thing you’ll want to do come springtime is worry about cleaning out gunk and green water that accumulated during the off-season. So be sure to avoid the most common mistakes when closing your pool this winter, and when the warm weather arrives next year, you’ll be ready to dive right in!

If you have any questions about the proper steps you need to take to winterize your pool, please contact us and we will be more than happy to help! Be sure to visit us at www.thepoolguystore.com for all your pool supply needs at discount prices.

SoundCast Wireless Outdoor Speakers

Summer pool parties and back-to-school barbecues bring family and friends together in backyards across America. However, if there isn’t any music playing, it’s not a party! The SoundCast Wireless Outdoor Speakers from The Pool Guy Store are the perfect solution when you need high-quality, water resistant amplification that will play your favorite tunes wherever you want. These state-of-the-art patio speakers are proven to broadcast music up to 350 feet in all directions, through floors, walls, and ceilings when you want them to.

With two models to choose from, you will not be disappointed in these portable outdoor speakers that come fully-equipped with rechargeable batteries, charging systems, adapter cables, power cords, and line input for direct play. Both models are designed to accommodate superior sound in outdoor spaces with easy setup and a phenomenal sound range and quality.

SoundCast’s OutCast Jr. Wireless Speaker - without Transmitter

The SoundCast OutCast Jr. wireless speaker was specifically designed for the outdoors. This wireless model, made from water-resistant plastic, has an amazing broadcast range of up to 350 feet. Using the auxiliary input/output jack, this unit is compatible with any computer, home theater system, audio system, iPod, MP3 player, or TV by purchasing a companion iCast transmitter (for use with iPods, etc.) or a UAT (Universal AudioCast Transmitter). These options can be added on to your SoundCast speakers as needed, or you can select the model that includes an iCast transmitter. Enjoy up to 9 hours of uninterrupted play with the long-lasting, rechargeable NiMH battery that is included.

This model is built to withstand any type of weather and you will enjoy an easy pause/play and track forward/backward system on the remote. The setup is easy and the sound quality is phenomenal! At approximately 10” x 19.5” and only 16.4 pounds, it’s the perfect size outdoor speaker when space may be an issue or you want to be able to blend the unit in with your patio or pool décor and/or landscaping.

SoundCast’s OutCast Wireless Audio Speaker - with Transmitter

SoundCast’s OutCast wireless audio speaker comes with a transmitter already included in the package and price and is the answer to high-quality, portable, mega sound. This model offers leading-edge multidirectional sound that can be enjoyed in backyards, on patios, poolside or anywhere you may want to listen to music away from your home. The plug-and-play option broadcasts up to 350 feet away, through walls, floors or ceilings, all with no required wiring! This particular model is endorsed by national publications like Popular Mechanics, GagetNutz, and CrunchGear as an ‘exceptional weatherproof pool speaker’.

The OutCast model is also made from high-grade plastic, in order to withstand the elements, and features a tracking remote, easy setup, and amazing sound quality. At approximately 10” x 26” and only 25.4 pounds, this leading model includes an iCast transmitter for easy connectivity to a variety of audio devices, particularly the Apple iPod, using the auxiliary input/output jack. Those who purchase the OutCast wireless audio speaker will also receive an 8” downward firing woofer, four 3” high-frequency drivers in an omni-directional array, and a 100-watt built-in digital amplifier. The built-in NiMH rechargeable battery pack promises up to 10 hours of playtime using an internal AC power supply.

For high-end outdoor wireless speakers, the water-resistant systems offered by SoundCast are perfect for pool parties, backyard barbecues or any other outdoor setting all year long and in just about any type of weather.

When you need a wireless outdoor speaker system, The Pool Guy Store has the products and services you need to make your backyard sound system a rockin’ success! We offer free shipping on every order of $79 or more.

Top 10 Best Pools in the World

As the final days of summer drift away, many across the country are crossing their fingers hoping for a few more warm days so they can savor the last few dips in the pool for the year. If you are getting ready to put the cover on your pool, The Pool Guy Store is sharing a few drool-worthy pools to add to your vacation bucket list from all over the world.

Nemo 33 - Brussels, Belgium

If you love diving into the deep end, The Nemo is the pool for you. Known worldwide by adventure seeking swimmers and divers, it currently holds the title of the world’s deepest indoor swimming pool at 108 feet deep. Filled with 2,500,000 liters of filtered spring water, the pool contains a series of underwater caves beginning at 32 feet under the surface. If you want to take a peek into other areas, the underwater windows allow visitors to peer into the pool at various depths.

photo credit: nemo33.com

Four Seasons Safari Lodge - Serengeti, Tanzania

While there are many hotels with luxury swimming pools in swanky cities or beachside resorts, pool at the Four Seasons Safari Lodge is the only pool on our list in the middle of the desert. Do not be fooled, this swimming pool is no mirage, and offers an unprecedented experience for the animal lover in you. As you lounge in the pool, releasing some of the heat from a day in Africa, elephants do the same in their own watering hole directly next to yours. Night vision cameras feed to a channel in the comfort of your room so you can watch the animals drink and play through the night. Plenty of swimming pools offer you the chance to swim with dolphins, but how many give you the chance to swim next to a 10,000 pound elephant? This is definitely an experience to add to your bucket list.

photo credit: Four Seasons Magazine

The Library Hotel - Koh Samui, Thailand

The swimming pool at the Library Hotel is certainly the most colorful on our list. Many are initially shocked by the bold color of the water, which appears to resemble blood thanks to the red, orange, and yellow mosaic glass tiles beneath the water’s surface. This has been widely named one of the best swimming pools in the world in highlight pieces by CNN and TripAdvisor, among others.

photo credit: thelibrary.co

The Neptune Pool at Hearst Castle - San Simeon, California

The Neptune Pool may not be the largest or most expensive on our list, but it has certainly seen the most famous patrons. When owned by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, guests included celebrities such as Charlie Chaplin, Cary Grant, Charles Lindbergh, Greta Garbo, and Clark Gable, in addition to global political leaders Calvin Coolidge, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and Winston Churchill. The Hearst family maintained the private residence until it was named a US National Historic Landmark in 1976. Since being named a historic landmark, only two projects have been granted permission to film in the pool: Stanley Kubrick for Spartacus, and more recently pop star Lady Gaga for her Y.O.U. music video. Unfortunately, visitors are not permitted to take a dip, but still flock from all over the world to walk around the statues and imagine the iconic personalities that once basked in the sun poolside at The Neptune.

photo credit: hearstcastle.org

Ubud Hanging Gardens Resort - Bali, Indonesia

The double decker swimming pool at the Ubud Hanging Gardens Resort is rivaled by few for the title of the world’s most beautiful swimming pool. Although each room has its own private pool, guests prefer to dip in the hotel’s iconic stacked swimming pools that seem to float as if by magic atop the jungle. Peer over the treetops at the beautiful birds and wildlife that Indonesia has to offer.

photo credit: hanginggardensubud.com

La Piscine Molitor - Paris, France

In the 1930’s swimmers at Paris’ famous La Piscine Molitor were protected by a lifeguard named Johnny Weissmuller, who would later be better known as Tarzan in the series of popular movies by the same name. A favorite spot for Parisian masses for decades, it was closed and scheduled for demolition in 1989, but wound up sitting derelict for years. When closed, it was colorfully targeted by vandals and graffiti artists. In 2014, the pool was reopened and restored to its original splendor as part of a new hotel in the city, regaining its place as one of the most beloved swimming pools in the world.

photo credit: lepoint.fr

Huvafen Fushi - The Maldives

The Huvafen Fushi resort in the Maldives is home to one of the world’s best swimming pools, particularly once the sun goes down. A series of fibre-optic lights in the base of the pool create the illusion of twinkling stars beneath the water. Passes to the resort have also recently been given in gift baskets to Academy Award nominees, and it is not uncommon to see an A-list celebrity like Nicole Kidman from across the pool.

photo credit: Inlighten Photography

The Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa - Grindavik, Iceland

Kicking back in the steaming waters of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland may feel like you are in a natural bath, but in fact it is a man-made lagoon. With a year-round water temperature of 98-102 degrees Fahrenheit, the spa is a beautiful place to warm up after a chilly day in Iceland. Rich in minerals like silica and sulphur, the water is said to have rejuvenating and healing benefits for your skin, and guests flock from all over the world to step into this luxurious pool.

photo credit: fastlanemag.com

Oberoi Udaivilas - Rajasthan, India

Why walk across the hotel to your swimming pool when you can wade out directly from your room’s patio? At this luxury swimming pool in India, guests can do just that. Overlooking a lake, this is one of the most serene pools in the world, as the still waters provide relief from the heat.

photo credit: Travel + Leisure

Alila Villas Uluwatu - Bali, Indonesia

The second pool in Bali on our list, the infinity pool at the Alila Villas is one of the most beautiful swimming pools in the world, and one for every bucket list. Perched high over the ocean on a cliffside villa, it is picture-perfect. Wander out over the edge of the pool from the birdcage-like lounge and take in the sunset in this romantic setting and feel like you are floating on air.

photo credit: Tim Griffith & Patrick Bingham-Hall

Have you taken a dip in any of these pools? Know of others that didn’t make our list? Let us know in the comments or on our Google+ page.

About the Author: The Pool Guy Store provides discount pool supplies for above ground, in ground, and commercial swimming pools. For more information on products and services, please visit www.thepoolguystore.com.

Free Style Diving Platforms

Whether you’re expertly plunging into the deep end or working on your biggest cannonball yet, S.R. Smith’s Free Style Diving Platforms will make you look good doing it! Unlike traditional diving boards, which are essentially just long wooden planks, the FreeStyle and HipHop diving platforms come in unique shapes – similar to rock formations - and composite materials to give your pool a more natural look and feel. Available in colors like sandstone, gray granite and radiant white, these diving boards blend extremely well in an outdoor environment and will give your swimming pool a sophisticated touch.

A few prominent features of the Free Style diving platforms are:

Shape & Size

While the FreeStyle board is a good 75 in. long, the HipHop board, at 87 in. long, is fairly longer. However, both free style diving platforms are great for backyard amusement and are safer to use than conventional diving boards. With a width twice as large as a regular diving board, curved shape and sturdy base, these boards are certainly a reliable source of fun! And due to their lack of springs, the boards require you to use your own force and momentum, which discourages complicated dives and reduces the chance of related accidents and injuries.

Non-Slip Composition

Speaking of safety, we haven’t revealed the best part yet! On top of using tough, composite material, the Free Style boards are wrapped and coated in a matching SureFoot non-slip tread – ensuring the safety of you, your family and friends. Say goodbye to holding your breath every time your child steps onto the diving board!

With the Free Style diving platforms, you can also be assured that their durable composite material, anti-slip tread and corrosion-resistant stainless steel hardware are capable of withstanding all types of inclement weather – ensuring your family a lifetime of fun and entertainment.

Salt Pool Friendly

Aware of the current trend of salt pools and salt chlorinator systems, our diving boards and the materials they are constructed from are salt pool friendly, meaning they function well in salt water environments.

Other notable features include:

• D-Lux stand designed specifically for these boards, which installs on the existing 6’ Flyte-Deck jigs
• Can be installed to Type I – Type V pools
• May also be used with Cantilever, Supreme + Flyte-Deck II stands

One basic thing to remember when purchasing a board for your pool is that a diving board differs significantly to a jumping board. With the FreeStyle and HipHop diving boards, the board itself is flexible but the base is completely rigid, whereas a jumping board will have a spring at its base. In order to make sure you know the proper diving method for a diving board, check out this instructional video below:

Give your swimming pool a refined touch of flair with our Free Style Diving Platforms. Its natural design will not only harmonize well with the outdoors but also enhance the overall look and aesthetic of your poolscape. Visit The Pool Guy Store to browse our entire selection of diving boards today.

Swimming Pool Chemical Safety Tips

Using swimming pool chemicals is an absolute must for a clean, healthy pool, but while they work to keep the water safe and free of bacteria and other potentially harmful germs, they pose a significant risk if they are not stored or used properly.

The following sections will provide guidelines and recommendations on how to store pool chemicals, and will also provide tips on how to take properly handle them in order to reduce the risk of injury and accidental poisoning.

Chemical Storage

One of the first things to consider is where you will be storing your pool chemicals. You want to ensure that they are stored in an area with ample ventilation and adequate lighting for reading labels to avoid dangerous chemical mix-ups. It’s a great idea to include spill containment features, also known as secondary containment, in the design of your chemical storage area. Spill containment features are used to prevent any chemical leaks or spills from mixing with any other substances, which may create toxic fumes. Be sure to provide adequate security features to the space you will be storing your chemicals in order to keep children and animals out of harm’s way.

Pool chemicals should be stored below 95° F/35° C and in conditions recommended by the manufacturer.

Protect stored chemicals from getting wet.

• Do not store pool chemicals directly on the floor where they could potentially get wet. Place chemical containers on shelves.
• Store pool chemicals away from doors and windows as these are the two most common points of entry for water.
• Always keep pool chemicals covered with waterproof material.

Other recommendations include:

• Store different types of pool chemicals separate from each other. Don’t stack incompatible chemicals (especially liquids that may leak) above or below one another.
• Store pool chemicals in original, manufacturer’s-labeled containers.
• Protect pool chemicals from heat sources, flames and other potentially flammable substances.

Chemical Handling

Before using any type of pool chemical, be sure to read the full manufacturer’s instructions, recommendations, and warnings. If you ever come across an un-labeled container, it is better to be safe and discard the chemicals, rather than taking a chance and guessing what it is. Be sure to keep children and animals at a distance when handling pool chemicals.

Other important recommendations include:

• Use caution when opening containers to avoid splashing chemicals on exposed skin or other nearby chemicals.
• Never mix individual pool chemicals together or with any other substance.
• Do not mix different types of chlorine products together.
• Do not mix fresh and old chemicals together, even if they are the same product, as the chemical composition may become altered if expired.
• Dedicate equipment such as scoops and buckets to only one pool chemical and never use for any other pool chemical.
• Make sure you are only using dry equipment in your pool chemicals.
• Do not pre-dissolve solid pool chemicals or dilute liquid pool chemicals.
• Always wash your hands after working with pool chemicals.

It’s also a smart idea to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and safety goggles when treating your pool. If there is ever a pool chemical spill, be sure to respond to it immediately.

About the Author: The Pool Guy Store provides discount pool supplies for above ground, in ground, and commercial swimming pools. For more information on products and services, please visit www.thepoolguystore.com.