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.

Pentair IntelliChlor Salt Chlorinator

For those who frequent the pools during the summer, dry hair and itchy skin may be of no surprise to you. Regular exposure to chlorine, a popular swimming pool disinfectant, can result in irritated skin, stinging eyes and extremely parched and porous hair. But without it, you’d end up wading in a pool ridden with slime and bacteria.

Investing in a salt chlorination device, like the Pentair IntelliChlor Salt Chlorinator, will solve this little conundrum with ease. Imagine diving into your pool knowing that the chlorine you’re exposing your body to is safe, natural and pure – not chemically enhanced.

How the Pentair IntelliChlor Works:

With this salt chlorinator, it’s no longer necessary to lug around and store harmful and expensive chlorine products. This simple recipe only requires a teaspoon of table salt per gallon of pool water! Just add the salt into your swimming pool, and the Pentair IntelliChlor will electrolytically convert the dissolved salt (sodium chloride) into pure chlorine. The best part is that the salt you add will be used and recycled repeatedly, whereas traditional chlorine additives need to be regularly bought and replenished. The IntelliChlor’s smart and automatic nature even keeps itself in pristine condition with its reverse cycling feature. It is the most reliable and convenient in pool sanitation technology out there!

Easy-to-Use Built-In Features:

• Transparent displays – Check salt levels, cell sanitation, amount of sanitizer output and water flow quickly and easily with easy-to-view presentation.
• Easy adjusting – Regulating and adjusting chlorination levels is as easy as pressing a couple of buttons.
• Daily performance capture – Performance data such as production settings, hours of use, chlorine production, cell cleaning cycles, salt readings and water temperature averages are recorded every day for diagnostics and optimal operation.
• Cell use tracking feature – Tracks and communicates cell life and remaining hours left in real-time.
• Integrated sensors – Detects changes in water flow, chlorine generation and water temperature. Depending on such conditions, an automatic shut-off feature is included to protect the chlorinator and conserve cell life.

An Eco-Friendly Option:

The Pentair IntelliChlor Salt Chlorinator is the “greenest” choice in pool sanitation, because it tightens the belt on the waste of production and transportation of chemical processing plants. The device sanitizes pools with salt and chlorine that it recycles on its own, so it has the power to drastically reduce the amount of resources used in factory-made chlorine production, packaging and transportation. In effect, you can save the earth from the comfort of your lounge chair, margarita in hand!

Other Important Features:

• Cell blades rated for about 10,000 hours of operation
• Reliable chlorine output for about 5 years
• On-time cycling prevents calcium and scale build-up to maximize cell life
• Available for up to 20,000 – 40,000 gallons
• Certified to UL1081 standard for safety

Receive all the benefits of swimming in the summer without having to sacrifice your health, time and money! To learn more about this product and more, visit The Pool Guy Store today.

The Importance of CPR Training

Summer is officially in full swing, and for most people summer means swimming as often as possible. Unfortunately, summer also means that there will be an increase in water accidents and drownings. In fact, drowning is the fifth leading cause of unintentional death in the US, where about 10 people die from drowning every day.

Now, we aren’t trying to scare you or give you the summertime blues or anything, but rather point out the undeniable importance of CPR training. Whether you own a pool or not, it’s a good idea to be prepared for any water emergency by earning a first aid and CPR certification.

CPR and first aid classes are quick, easy and fairly inexpensive to take and will teach you how to:

• Perform CPR on adults and/or children
• Relief of choking in an adult, child or infant
• Use an AED (automated external defibrillator) in cardiac emergencies – class specific
• Treat minor injuries with basic first aid techniques

Where and How to Get Certified

Two of the most well-known organizations that offer CPR and first aid classes are the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association. Each of these associations offers classes in a variety of settings, including the workplace, in schools, at community centers and on an individual basis. Visit their websites to register for upcoming classes in your area.

American Red Cross

Average Completion Time: between 3 and 6 hours, depending on the type of class you take

Cost: $70 - $110, depending on the type of class you take

Certification Remains Valid For: 2 years

American Heart Association

Average Completion Time: between 3 and 9 hours, depending on the type of class you take

Cost: varies based on location and type of class selected

Certification Remains Valid For: 2 years

You can also get your CPR and first aid certification online through a variety of training organizations. One of the most popular and highly-credited training sites we found is CPRToday! They offer fully-accredited online courses that are recognized in all 50 states.

Average Completion Time: between 45 minutes and 2 hours

Cost: $25 - $50, depending on the type of class you take

Certification Remains Valid For: 2 years

Hayward AquaBug Automatic Pool Cleaner

Better than a weekly pool boy, the Hayward AquaBug Pool Cleaner is not only cuter eye candy but is also cheaper in the long run and never misses a spot! This cute little critter is an above ground pool cleaner that automatically maneuvers the bottom of the pool to quickly pick up grass, leaves, bugs, dirt and all kinds of litter to keep your pool crystal clear all summer long. The Hayward Aquabug operates off your pool’s current filtration system, which saves you the trouble of purchasing extraneous booster pumps that can get quite pricey. And installing in less than 10 minutes, it really does save you both time and money!

SmartDrive

Although all automatic pool cleaners require sophisticated technology of some sort, this Hayward pool cleaner – with its patented SmartDrive system - may be the most intelligent above ground cleaner in the market today. It is designed to automatically navigate and clean the bottom of nearly any shape (uneven, dished or flat) and size above-ground pool without any supervision or manual labor required from you. With the SmartDrive system’s pre-programmed steering capabilities, the entire floor of the pool is guaranteed to be cleaned quickly and efficiently in the most meticulous manner. Don’t be fooled by the AquaBug’s cute and friendly exterior, because it’s actually ruthless in its debris-fighting responsibilities! Even the most microscopic dirt particles cannot evade this cleaner’s combination of methodical steering patterns and powerful vacuum suction.

Water Circulation

While the Hayward AquaBug already circulates the perimeter of your pool, it also improves water circulation in the pool with its unique turbine/gearing system. By assuming the characteristics of a main drain, it directly draws water from the very bottom of your pool as it works and moves. This physical action provides constant balanced water flow, which decreases the amount of chemical cleaners and sanitizers needed to clean your pool. So, soak up some rays with a juicy novel, catch up on your favorite shows, run some errands or do whatever your heart desires as the AquaBug gently and quietly makes your pool bed absolutely spotless for your next dip!

Other Features

Along with the amazing features already mentioned, here are some other great elements of this above ground pool cleaner:

• Bumper ring that minimizes friction as it bumps and moves away from walls to resume its programmed steering pattern
• Slotted santropene shoes for quick turns
• A domed, contoured design to move underwater more efficiently for faster operation and to reduce cleaning time
• 1 year warranty

With the Hayward AquaBug automatic pool cleaner, simply take joy in knowing that you won’t have to lift a single finger as it does all the work for you. Scratch that cumbersome pool cleaning off your weekly to-do list by ordering one today!

Swimming Pools: Above Ground vs. In-Ground Swimming Pools

The key ingredient to surviving the summertime heat is access to crisp, cool water. If you’re thinking about buying a swimming pool, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of above ground and in-ground swimming pools before making your decision because let’s face it, it’s not a small purchase!

To help you decide what the best swimming pool for your space, needs and budget is, we have compiled a list of things you should consider when deciding what type of pool you should buy.

Above Ground Swimming Pools

Pre-manufactured in kit form, these pools are simply large containers filled with water.

Advantages

• This is the best option for those working with a smaller budget. Approximately 1/10th to 1/5th of the total cost of in-ground swimming pools, they are the cheaper, more economical option.
• Because they are considered temporary structures, in most cases, your property taxes will be unaffected.
• Arriving in kit form, installation only takes a few days and is fairly easy.
• Generally, above ground swimming pools with walls that are at least 48” are not required to have a fence around the entire pool. At minimum, they are required to have a fence around the ladder area or have a ladder with a built in self-closing gate.
• Great for homes with small yards or for people who don’t want to lose the majority of their yard space to a pool.

Disadvantages

• Because they are considered temporary structures, they do not add any real value to your house and may even take away from the overall aesthetic quality of your backyard.
• They are not ideal for homes in the South or places with much warmer climates. For example, temperatures can rise to well over 100 degrees for days on end in Texas and a smaller body of water is going to heat up faster and hotter than a larger body of water. This extreme heat promotes much faster chlorine breakdown and algae growth, which in turn causes the owner to buy more chemicals and pay higher utility bills to run the pool pump for longer periods of time.
• They don’t have many customizable options; shapes are generally limited to round or oval. Still, you can add decking or railing around the pool to give it a more finished look.

In-Ground Swimming Pools

Made of either concrete, vinyl or fiberglass, these swimming pools are built by digging out and excavating a large site.

Advantages

• Because they are considered permanent structures, they add value to your home.
• Great for warmer climates.
• They have countless customizable options - with concrete/gunite pools offering the most, vinyl liner in ground pools with the second most, and fiberglass pools coming in third. Endless varieties of shapes, liners, walls, decking, paving and even entertainment add-ons – like diving boards, waterfalls and slides – are available to give your pool a unique personality and look to set it apart from the rest. They can be built according to almost anything you could possibly imagine or in any way your heart may desire.
• They can be made to be up to 10 feet deep or more, whereas above ground pools average around only 4 feet deep.

Disadvantages

• The cost may be the biggest, if not only, disadvantage when it comes to in-ground pools. Simply getting one built in the first place is a major investment on its own. The initial cost to build and install it is already high but add the yearly maintenance and upkeep on top of that, and you’ll see why it takes a lot of forethought before purchasing an in-ground pool.
• All in-ground pools are required by law to be completely enclosed by a fence to prevent small children from accidentally falling into the pool and to protect yourself from being held responsible for any injuries that occur in your pool – even if you are not present at the time.

Although purchasing a swimming pool may be a large commitment, it does not have to be a nerve wracking decision – it should be a fun and exciting time for you and your family. When it comes down to it, an above ground pool is going to be more economical initially and a more temporary structure overall, whereas an in-ground pool will require more of an initial investment but, when properly cared for, can be enjoyed for years to come and can add market value to your home.

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.

6 Pool Party Must-Haves for the Best Pool Party - Ever

Now that warmer weather is finally here, you may be itching to get out of the house and into the pool. Whether you want to have a relaxing time lounging poolside or invite over a bunch of friends and family for a fun day by the pool, make sure you don’t forget the following 6 must-have items that will make any pool party experience one to remember!

1. Munchies

When you’re planning on having a pool party, you'll want to be prepared for practically anything. It’s likely you'll be outside for a few hours, so be sure to have enough munchies to tide you and your guests over. Pool party snacks like chips and salsa, cheese plates and fresh fruit are great party favorites. Need ideas? Check out these great summer party snack recipes that will be gobbled up in seconds!

If you're thinking about having a backyard barbeque, it’s a good idea to plan ahead to make sure you have all the needed supplies. Don't feel bad about asking your guests to pitch in; your friends and family will be quick to pick up a package of hamburgers or hotdogs when they know you're already supplying the charcoal and buns. Most important tip of all: keep it simple! Anything that requires more than your hands or a plastic fork should be left in the kitchen.

2. Tunes

Music is an absolute must for any great pool party as it sets the mood, gets guests excited and energized, and can lead to some fun(ny) sing-alongs. Public pools may provide some ambient music, but if you're in your own backyard or complex, you’ll have to step-in and play DJ. There are many different types of outdoor wireless speakers available on the market today, but the best ones to have around the pool are going to be water resistant. Water resistant portable speakers can play music from any device including iPods, computers, MP3 players and more.

Get your friends involved in making the playlist by taking song requests. If you prefer not to make a playlist, you can stream your favorite radio station or choose a pre-make playlist from programs like Spotify.

3. The Essentials

Bathing suit, towel, flip flops, sunscreen, hat – these are the basic ‘essentials’ you and your guests will need to bring to the party. Having backups of the essentials is not necessarily a must but can mean the difference between being a good host or a perfect host – because we all have that one friend who will always forget theirs!

4. Entertainment

Depending on how you and your crew enjoy your weekends, you might prefer a party barge or paperback. If you’re in the latter, don't forget that All-American classic you've been putting off reading if you're planning on a relaxing day poolside. Now is a great time to catch up on a bestseller while you're sunning by the pool.

If you're planning for a bit more of a livelier time, be sure to have some games on hand. Classic pool games like Marco Polo, chicken and splash competitions are great go-tos that don’t require any extra equipment. If your pool party is geared more toward adults, a floating beer pong table is a definite must! An inflatable beer pong table takes a fan-favorite and brings it to the pool with 11 built-in cup holders on each side and is available is either blue or pink.

5. Hydration

Plan ahead for your poolside beverages and pick up plenty beforehand. One of the worst things that can happen is having to take a trip back to the store to restock, so make sure you pick up a few extras the first time around. If you're planning on having adult beverages, err towards bringing cans, rather than bottles, so broken glass doesn’t find its way into the pool.

And of course, don't forget to keep plenty of water on hand. Being out in the sun for hours plus drinking alcohol can dehydrate you in no time so be sure to drink water frequently throughout the day.

6. Wind Down

After the sun has set, there is no better way to slowly bring the party to an end than sitting around a fire. Depending on where you live and the certain fire-burning rules of your town, you may be required to use a firebowl or have an inspected and approved fire pit. Firebowls are not only safer, they are also beautiful to look at. Sit around the fire, warm up and laugh about all the silly things that happened during the best pool party ever! Also: Marshmallows. Enough said. Find some beautiful firebowls that ship right to your front door for free here.

Save Big with Hayward Salt & Swim 3C Pool Salt Chlorinator

Comfort, convenience, and a low cost. Is there anything else you need in a salt water pool chlorinator? Hayward, a pool equipment company, offers a salt water chlorinator that makes salt chlorination easy. Install the Hayward Salt and Swim 3C in under 20 minutes and get ready to save time and money! If you’ve ever dreamed about owning a salt water pool, take the next step with the Hayward Salt and Swim 3C.

This super-star Hayward chlorine generator will make your pool more comfortable for you and your family to relax in. Say goodbye to traditional chlorination by converting salt into chlorine. This natural approach to pool sanitization won’t bleach clothing or turn your eyes red. Not only will this Hayward chlorinator allow you to swim and relax in silky-smooth pool water, it will also help you avoid the strong chlorine odors and constant dried-out skin. Sound good to you? Don’t worry, it gets better.

Not only does the Hayward Salt and Swim 3C provide the maximum amount of comfort, it also saves you time. Throw the heavy chlorine buckets and jugs away and start automatically converting salt into 100% pure available chlorine. No more mixing or measuring or heavy lifting! Cross off going to the store to get chlorine from your to-do list and find your extra time adding up. Let a single Salt & Swim 3C cell do all of the work for you and save yourself the time and the money.

Speaking of money, the Hayward chlorinator is surprisingly affordable. Not only is the upfront price competitive with other salt water chlorinators, it also saves you money in the long run. The Salt & Swim 3C produces over 200 pounds of 100% pure available chlorine at a 50% less cost than the other traditional jugs of chlorine. If you favor numbers over words, even the comparisons are impressive: 1 Salt & Swim 3C Cell equals 225 lbs of Trichlor, 208 gallons of liquid chlorine and 333 lbs of Dichlor. If you take into account the amount of chlorine you buy and the price you pay per gallon or per pound, you will find that you’re wasting an enormous amount of money.

This salt water pool chlorinator is best when used in in-ground pools that have up to 30,000 gallons. It has a compact design, easy-to-read LED lights and a weatherproof controller. If you still aren’t sold, the Hayward Salt and Swim 3C comes complete with a cutting template, wall mount template and easy-to-plumb cell with compression unions for a quick and easy disconnect. A 10 inch salt water chlorinator has never done more to sanitize your pool. Start your summer off right by saving your time and money with Hayward Salt and Swim 3C. For this product and more, visit The Pool Guy Store.