—Learn the benefits of portable manufactured models compared with custom concrete spas

Part 1: Portable Hot Tubs

Few activities are more relaxing than settling into a warm, bubbly spa at the end of a hard day. Along with the health benefits of unwinding mind and body in heated, swirling water, a spa can make an excellent spot for entertaining friends and family. Depending on the type you choose, a spa can boost the visual appeal of your backyard as well.

—Tips and guidelines for smart filter “housekeeping” to help ensure efficient filtration

Keeping your swimming pool water looking and feeling good requires regular cleaning of your pool filter. Fortunately, for those with a cartridge-type filter system, maintaining the elements—the tubes of folded, accordion-like material that goes inside the filter tank—is easy to do.

Fall and winter weather bring increased rainfall, and if that water collects and concentrates in your backyard, it can wreak havoc on your swimming pool and surrounding deck and patio. Avoid a backyard mess by having proper drainage strategies in place.

Toward this goal, one key tactic is a roof with functioning rain gutters that funnel run-off rainwater away from your pool, deck, and other vulnerable spots in your backyard.

Ways to minimize chlorine’s impact on your body and other smart solutions

Although chlorine is highly effective for disinfecting swimming pool water, it comes with a price: This chemical can be harsh on your eyes, hair, skin, nails, and even your lungs.

Depending on your age, certain skin conditions, the amount of time you spend in the water, and how well the pool chemicals are balanced, chlorine’s effects can be particularly irritating or downright harmful to your skin.

Understanding the benefits of two-speed and variable-speed models

If the pump on your swimming pool is due for a replacement, making the move to a two-speed or variable-speed model will cut energy costs and may provide other benefits as well.

Tracking and balancing your pool water—and what could happen if you don’t!

Regular pool water testing and maintenance of the chemicals are essential for ensuring a safe, comfortable swimming environment and preserving the longevity of pool finishes and equipment. 

Understanding solar power and why it’s particularly smart for some pool owners to adopt the technology

Pool solar systems use collectors that absorb the sun’s heat, and then boost pool temperature by circulating water through the collectors where it gets warm. The heated water then routes back into your pool.

Would you like to reduce monthly utility bills for heating your swimming pool? Particularly if you have an older installation with a less-efficient heater and/or if you face other specific factors—described below—that boost pool heating needs, an energy-wise solar system may be the perfect solution for you.