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INFORMATION SERIES: Swimming Pools

Inground swimming pools are either concrete, vinyl-lined or fiberglass. Concrete pools employ rebars in the walls and floor for added stability. Concrete may be cast-in place or sprayed (gunite). Their interior surfaces are usually plastered or painted in a color range from white to black. Tile is often employed along the water line for aesthetic and practical maintenance purposes. Concrete pools can be shaped to almost any design.

Masonry block pools are restricted in pool design to straight line construction. Reinforcement rods are inserted in the block cores which are then filled with mortar. The final product is either plastered or painted.

Vinyl-lined pools involve installation over metal, plastic, masonry block or wood framing with a sof (sand, fibrous material, etc.) or rigid (concrete) base. Most pools are rectangular in design although some shaping is possible. Liners are available in a variety of colors and designs.

Fiberglass pools are either a solid shell or a sectioned design. They offer low maintenance, long life and a variety of built-in colors. However, in areas of high water alkalinity, improperly treated pool water can chalk the finish necessitating a painting to maintain a reasonable appearance.

POOL FILTRATION

The key to minimum care/maximum enjoyment of a pool is a properly functioning filtration system. It enables home owners to conserve water by using the initial water supply over and over again.

Most filtration systems are comprised of a filter (tank), pump, motor, supply and return piping along with the pool elements such as surface skimmer(s) and drain(s). There are three basic types of pool filters (see illustrations) high-rate sand, pressure diatomaceous earth (D.E.) and cartridge. Check with local authorities for their filter recommendations/requirements.

All the above filter systems require backwashing to clear the filtration media of accumulated dirt particles. A pressure gauge will signal the need for backwashing by a change in pressure. To extend the time between backwashing of all filters, make sure all swimmers are clean before entry. Tanning oils quickly clog D.E. and cartridge filters.

The HouseMaster Technical Staff recommends that homebuyers obtain the operating directions on all pool equipment since every pool system will have its own special features and requirements. The following tips are presented to assist you with the various functions and accessories of pools in general:

• Maintenance. The key to an economical enjoyment of your pool depends largely on the care given to it. A properly maintained pool and water treatment (chlorine and pH levels) program will assure long-term satisfaction.

• Heaters. Many pool owners use heaters to extend the swimming season or to raise pool water temperature to desirable levels. To keep pool heating costs within reason, it is suggested that a solar cover be placed on the pool when it is not being used (especially at night). It will also heat the water during the day. Never allow any swimming unless the pool cover is completely removed to avoid surfacing under the cover.

• Lighting and Electrical. All pool lights must be grounded for safety purposes. It is suggested that pool area lighting be of the low-voltage type to minimize the risk of shock.  All pool equipment must also be properly grounded. GFCI outlets should be installed and checked regularly.

• Diving Boards. Many pool owners are rethinking the advisability of a diving board. They present pool owners with extra risk since they often encourage foolish activity.

• Automatic Pool Cleaners. Probably the best investment a pool owner can make is an automatic pool cleaner. These units will eliminate the tedium of pool vacuuming and can be used with most pool shapes and types.

• Fencing. Most all communities require proper fencing and gate locks with all pool installations.

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