Category Archives: Swimming Pool Products

Swimming Pool Products

Variable-Speed Pumps Can Save Considerable Energy

First let’s define what a pool pump is: A pool pump consists of two principal parts a motor and a wet end, where the water enters and typically there is a basket. So are you going to replace the pool pump or the pool pump motor?
Replacing the pool pump motor involves dissembling the pump, separating the wet end from the motor, removing the impeller, mounting plate and diffuser. The reassembly involves replacing the seal and reassembling the components mentioned above. To see a typical pump layout click here.
When you replace a pool pump, more than likely you will need to cut and re-plumb the pipes. Typically I find it easier to replace the motor and seals
When we discuss swimming pool, repairs and retrofits that decrease a pool’s power usage, the focus generally moves towards the pool pump, since it consumes more power than any other unit of pool appliance. However, a well-designed variable speed pump can decrease the energy expenses of operating a pool by up to 90%.
Historically, swimming pool pumps with induction motors that run at only 1 or 2 speeds draw more power than is needed to circulate swimming-pool water. That’s because these pool pumps can run at only 1 speed at a time
Speed Pool Pumps:

The majority of pool pumps in the market place are a single speed. Without a pool timer the single speed pump runs 24 hours per day, with a timer the pump can be turned on for specified periods of time. The typical costs are: $75-$150 and depends on how long and what horsepower pump is employed.
Speed Pool Pumps

Speed Pumps have become more popular. They are capable of running at 2-speed a higher speed which is typically that of a single speed pump and a lower speed that is half the speed of a regular speed pump. The pump can be run at a slower speed which will provide circulation and chlorination. The pump can be switched to high speed when vacuuming the pool is necessary. It too can be further regulated with a time clock or an automation system that includes a salt chlorinator. Typical Monthly Cost on Electric Bill: $30-$50
Variable speed pumps:
Most variable speed pumps can be programmed to run at an appropriate speed to provide the appropriate flow for each defined function, such as running a suction-side swimming pool cleaner, spa jets or waterfalls. This is done thru a control panel attached to the pool motor. Most of these pumps will increase the speed as the resistance in the filter increases, therefore maintaining a constant flow.
No matter what type of pump is being employed, slower pump speeds save power. They also considerably decrease the level of noise related with conventional swimming pool motors and decrease wear on not just the pump itself but also pool cleaners.
If a swimming-pool employs a single-speed pump, it may cost around nine-hundred dollars per year to operate that pump. After 5 years, the owner will have spent about $4500 operating that pump. At the same time, in a nicely-programmed system with a variable speed pump, the same operational expenses may be as small as two-hundred dollars per year.
So if saving money on operating your pool is a goal consider the following:
1). Try to reduce the size of your current pool pump; this will be the least expensive option. However, before doing this consult with a pool professional to make sure the new pool pump motor meets the minimum requirements.
2). Replace your current pump with a high efficiency motor, the replacement motor cost is slightly higher, but will save you money.
3). Consider replacing you pool motor with a two speed motor, only running the pool pump on high speed when running an automatic pool cleaner or manually vacuuming the pump. This will again save you more money.
4). Consider replacing the entire pump with a variable speed pump. This is the most expensive option and would take 3-5 years before you get back the cost of the new pump. But will in the long run save you the most money. I have had several customers go into shock, when they were told their replacement variable speed motor replacement was going to cost around a thousand dollars. Therefore, choose your options wisely.

7 Tips For Avoiding a Nasty Stomach Bug Linked to Swimming

We’ve often seen news stories of cruise ship passengers returning to port after being sickened by a ‘stomach bug’ that produces nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. The culprit is usually norovirus, one of a group of viruses that affect the stomach and lining of the large intestine, and are responsible for most cases of gastroenteritis, according to the CDC. Norovirus illnesses sicken between 19 million to 21 million people every year.

Originally called the Norwalk virus after the location of the first outbreak in Norwalk, Ohio, norovirus is not limited to cruise ships and can be transmitted anywhere people are in close quarters (such as nursing homes, day care centers or other public places). These viruses are stalwart and extremely contagious and are able to withstand extreme temperatures in water or on surfaces. Norovirus can survive in water for months or even years. People contract the virus by touching contaminated surfaces or through contaminated, raw or undercooked food or drinks. In a recent report, the CDC reported that norovirus may also be spread by people who are ill with norovirus who go swimming in lakes, rivers or pools and vomit or have diarrhea in the water. The water becomes contaminated and other swimmers who swallow the water become infected.

It is important to keep germs out of the water in the first place. Here are other things you can do prevent norovirus from making you or your family ill:

• Always wash hands carefully with soap and water after using the bathroom, changing diapers or before handling, preparing or eating food

• Keep young children (children younger than 10 years old) out of water that you suspect may be contaminated or water that has not been treated with chlorine. The risk is higher in ponds and lakes than in well maintained pools.

• Do not swim if you have been sick with diarrhea or vomiting, and do not allow children who have been sick to swim.

• Check diapers and take children for regular bathroom breaks. Be sure to stress no peeing or pooping in the water.

• Change kids’ diapers in a bathroom or diaper-changing area to keep germs away from the water.

• Avoid swallowing water from ponds, lakes or pools.

• If you have your own pool, monitor the water chemistry and maintain appropriate disinfectant levels. Check automatic chlorination systems to ensure that they are in proper working order.

MyPool.com has all the equipment you need for testing your pool’s chemistry, and we sell many products to help keep your pool clean and properly disinfected. We sell test kits by Taylor, AquaChek and All Clear. To assist with pool chlorination we sell: Carefree Ionizers, Hayward and AutoPilot Chlorine Generators. For help keeping your pool clean we have automatic cleaners from manufacturers like Hayward, Barracuda, Letro and Polaris. Also, be sure to keep your filter in top running condition, replace filter cartridges ever 2-3 years, change your DE powder, and backwash your sand filter when the pressure increases 3-5 pounds above the clean pressure. At MyPool.com we have an array of chemicals help to simplify the process of maintaining balance and to ensure your pool is sanitary.

Take proper precautions, keep your pool clean and well-maintained, and have fun!

Cyanuric acid

Cyanuric acid or 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triol is a white, odorless solid finds use as a precursor or a component of chlorine products used in swimming pool. Cyanuric acid is classified as “essentially nontoxic”. Cyanuric acid is marketed as a chlorine stabilizer for swimming pools.

Free chlorine can be protected from the effects of UV light in sunlight by the addition of Cyanuric acid, sometimes called stabilizer. Cyanuric acid is only recommended for outdoor pools and spas where sunlight can break down free chlorine quickly. There is NO chlorine benefit to feeding Cyanuric acid into indoor pools and spas.The recommend range for swimming pools, the optimal range for Cyanuric acid is 30-50 ppm. At levels above 50 ppm, pools reach the point of diminishing returns where the reduction in chlorine effectiveness and cost of buying Cyanuric acid outweighs the benefits. Some health departments regulate the level of Cyanuric acid in a pool, some indicating a maximum of 30ppm and others as high as 100ppm.

There are two ways by which Cyanuric acid is introduced into the pool. The first is by the addition of Cyanuric acid, the second is by the use of stabilized chlorine. Stabilized Chlorine tablets come in three forms from three and one inch circular tablets, a stick form and finally a granular form. Regardless of the form, the chemical composition is either dichlor or tri-chlor, these products when consumed breakdown to Cyanuric acid.Some health departments regulate the level of Cyanuric acid in a pool, some indicating a maximum of 30ppm and others as high as 100ppm.

For whatever reason to reduce the Cyanuric level there is essentially three ways, The first is to drain part of the water from the pool and replace it with water that does not contain Cyanuric acid (Tap Water). The second is to use another form of chlorine that does not contain Cyanuric acid, this prevents Cyanuric acid from going higher and with rainwater and backwashing over time this will bring down the Cyanuric acid level. While there is a third way is to reduce Cyanuric acid level the use a chemical known as melamine is not recommended. Introducing Melamine into the pool will cause the water to become cloudy and most filters would have difficulty in removing these very fine particles. One pound of melamine will reduce the Cyanuric acid level by 12 ppm in a 10,000 gallon pool.

Controlling the type of chlorine you use is the best way to control Cyanuric acid levels. Switching to a non-CYA based sanitizer such as liquid chlorine, liquid bleach, calcium hypochlorite or lithium hypochlorite will lower CYA only because these chlorine products do not contain Cyanuric acid.

Testing for Cyanuric acid:

Melamine combines with cyanuric acid and related compounds to form melamine cyanurate. This compound forms a precipitate, which makes the water cloudy, how cloudy the water becomes is a measure of the Cyanuric acid level in the pool.

Pink Algae in Swimming Pools

Let’s start by saying there is no such thing as “Pink Algae”. What is referred to as pink algae is actually a bacterium. While pink algae are rare in pools it can occur, attaching itself to principally to PVC plastics as well as the pool surface. The Pink Algae forms a protective coating, which makes removal somewhat more challenging. It should be noted that pink algae thrives in a dark environment, particularly in areas with slow moving water

The best prevention for any algae is not to allow it to get a foothold. Keep your chlorine levels at the recommended levels, brush the pool surfaces frequently.

How do you get rid of pink algae in pools

Since Pink algae are not algae, shocking the pool in most cases will not solve the problem. The use of a product called Yellow Out is recommended, Yellow Out is not an algaecide, it is a patented chemical that when used in conjunction with chlorine will eliminate the pink algae.

Swimming Pool Supplies – So Many Things to Consider!

Having a home with a swimming pool is a major accomplishment in one’s life. As a pool owner you can take pride in it. As a pool owner you should understand all aspects of maintaining the pool, even if you hire a company to help with the maintenance. On a weekly basis you need to test the water chemistry and do the basic maintenance of the swimming pool. This might include skimming of leaves, emptying of skimmer and pump baskets and backwashing or cleaning the filter.

As a swimming pool owner you prime task is to make sure the pool area is a safe and healthy place to swim. One of the most important pieces of swimming pool equipment is a test kit. The test kit will tell you if the pool is sanitary enough to swim and by balancing the water properly extend the life of the pool and pool equipment. For Information on swimming pool test kits, please see: http://www.mypool.com/Products/Catalog/Test-Kits.asp

Swimming pool brushes and nets play an important role in keep the pool surface free of debris. Brushing the pool regularly helps reduce algae from getting a hold on the pool.

For Information on swimming pool bushes and nets please see: http://www.mypool.com/Products/Catalog/ca.asp

Finally consider the use of a pool cleaner to help maintain the pool. Pool cleaners have the ability to vacuum debris from the swimming pool. Debris is collected in a bag, canister, skimmer, or pool basket which requires emptying periodically. Pool cleaners help the filtration system work more efficiently by taking water from the bottom of the pool and moving the water around. For more information on swimming pool cleaners please see: http://www.mypool.com/automatic-pool-cleaners.htm

Swimming Pool Ladders and Steps – The Most Essential Equipment for Every Pool Owner

Swimming pool ladders can be found on most pools. Swimming pool ladders help you get in an out of pools easily. There’re several different kinds of ladders, both for in-ground & above-ground pools. Ladders for pools can be constructed of stainless steel or plastic.

Ladders can attach to the side of the pool, placed in the pool or act as a A-frame for above ground pools. Regardless of the type of ladder make sure it meets the weight requirements of the people using the pool.

For a general listing of all ladders, Ladder Parts and Accessories please see: http://www.mypool.com/Products/Catalog/la.asp

At My Pool we feature Confer Pool Steps. Confer Pool steps are used in in-ground and above ground pools.

No doubt, a pool ladder is an important part of the swimming pool. Getting in and out of the pool with a properly fitted ladder can prevent injuries and make your pool a safe environment in which to have fun and pleasure. Above-ground pools would be almost impossible to get in or out of without the help of a ladder. Toddlers or kids always require a ladder to get in and out of the pool in a safe manner. Overall, you can say faultless pool ladders and steps are a cost-effective means to offer your guest and family members a secure and easy means to get in & out of your swimming pool.

Swimming Pool Designs – What Options You Have

A swimming pool is undoubtedly the best place where you can relax or unwind. Swimming pools are available in two types in-ground and above-ground. In ground pools are constructed with three different types of material, concrete, vinyl-liner, and fiberglass. Above ground pools are mainly vinyl-liner.

Regardless of the type of pool you choose to have they all will provide hours of fun and relaxation. The type of pool you choose will also reflect on how you showcase your home.

Perhaps the most important consideration in determining what type of pool to build, to install, or build is: What will the pool be used for and who will be using it?

The diverse shapes and designs of swimming pools can be overwhelming. A lot will depend on your budget and local restrictions. When selecting a pool builder always seek out references. Be sure to check with the local better business bureau. Once you are satisfied with the selection of the builder it will take anywhere from 1-2 weeks to several months to complete.

Also, there are swimming pools that have a Jacuzzi or a kid’s bathing pool affixed to the side of the swimming pool. These kinds of additions might be suitable for your swimming pool needs.

When installing a pool consider the landscaping that goes around the pool. Select plants that do not shed their leaves annually. This will help minimize the cleaning effort.

Once that pool is built, you can choose My Pool as your premier pool supplier for all kinds of swimming pool products. Whether it is swimming pool cleaner such as the Hayward Navigator, Pool Cleaner , Cleaning Accessories or Test Kits . My Pool will offer you the largest selection, great prices, and fast shipping.

Right Swimming Pool Products are Much Essential to Maintain Your Pool

So you have decided to install a pool in your backyard, but you are not certain what types of swimming pool products you will require to maintain your big investment. Indeed if you’re new to swimming-pool ownership, there’re so many things to learn about. Pool covers, brushes, heaters, vacuums, pumps, and chemicals are just a few of the pool stuffs that you will hopefully require to consider purchasing to preserve your pool.

Swimming-pool maintenance equipment:

Perhaps the most needed pool items you’ll purchase are those that assists you maintaining your pool in excellent condition. Leaf skimmers, vacuums and brushes are all mandatory for maintaining the cleanliness of your swimming pool. Pool brushes are essential for keeping the floor & sides of your swimming pool clean & free from algae. Although you’ll make use of certain chemicals to destroy algae & other organic substances, a pool brush will certainly take the cleaning to another level and allow the chemicals to work more efficiently.

The Pool filter is another obvious part of the pool. A dirty feel cleans better than a clean filter, therefore only backwash the filer or clean the cartridge when the pressure on the filter increases 3-5 pounds it is time to clean the cartridge, backwash the filter or change the DE

If you reside in a cooler environment or your swimming pool has small exposure to the sun’s-rays, then adding a a pool heater, solar blanket or both will extend the swimming pool season. For more information on pool heaters please see: http://www.mypool.com/swimming-pool-heater.htm

Pool Chemicals:

Pool chemicals are very crucial to maintain the water quality and to ensure the water is safe to swim, and the pool equipment will have an extended life.

There’re wide varieties of pool chemicals that you will require to do some research before selecting for any particular chemical. It’s very much important that your swimming pool water is kept balanced and clean so that it’s secure for all swimmers.

Please see: http://www.mypool.com/Products/Catalog/swimming-pool-chemicals.htm for an extended description of many pool chemicals, there use and types and quantities available.

Now it is much easier to buy your swimming pool supplies or products via an online retailer. Buying on line is easy and items are delivered right to your door. Let MyPool.com be your go to supplier for swimming pool products and supplies.

What is Algae?

Green Algae

In the broadest sense of the term algae, algae are plants ranging in size from microscopic cells to giant kelp found in the sea. Like most plants, algae thrive on carbon dioxide, sunlight and nutrients. Swimming pools typically encounter three groups of algae: Black, Blue-Green/ Green and Mustard Algae.
Swimming pools are like children: don’t watch them, and they will soon get into trouble. Your pool is no different. The best cure for algae is to prevent its growth. This is done by maintaining a good chlorine reading, proper pH, and brushing the pool frequently. There are generally some algaecides such as All Clear, Concentrated Algaecide 60 that can be used prophylactically. Be aware of low costing algaecides since they can often cause more harm than good, especially the ones that foam.
If you do get algae in your swimming pool, always start by adjusting the pH, make sure your chlorine level is higher than normal, and brush. In the event the algae do not respond to the higher levels of chlorine then add algaecide. For green algae you have two choices: All Clear, Concentrated Algaecide 60 and All Clear, Green Algaecide, (Copper Based). For yellow or mustard algae All Clear, Mustard Knockout. While copper based algaecide is very effective against green algae, be careful not to introduce large amounts of chlorine into the pool rapidly, such as shocking the pool. Copper can easily precipitate out of the water and cause staining of the pool surface. As the algae are killed, the copper will slowly diminish by absorbing the algae, and when the filter is cleaned it will be backwashed.
Black Algae, the pesky one. Black algae have a protective gel like coating its surface, which prevents most chemicals entering the algae cell and disrupting its growth. Pools that have a hard surface such as concrete or Gunite can benefit from the use of an Algae brush to help break the gel, allowing the chemicals to penetrate the algae cell. Rubbing a pool tablet on the surface of the black algae spots is sometimes effective. On large areas of concrete or Gunite pools, Algae Kill can be used. This is a slow dissolving product that kills black algae when sitting on the surface. Caution – this method should not be used on other surfaces, as bleaching of the liner can occur. Never use an algae brush on fiberglass or vinyl pools.
At MyPool.com we have a complete line of Click here for additional Swimming pool chemicals

Did you know 70% of a pools heat loss is due to evaporation?

Here’s a tip to help reduce this loss and 50% of normal water evaporation:
Once a month add Ecosavr™ to your pool, Ecosavr™ is a liquid that creates a thin film on the surface of the pool acting like a solar blanket for your pool. It’s a liquid, add one packet to your pool once a month, there is no cover to roll up, store or roll out. The Pool is always ready to swim.
Click Here is the link for additional information

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Swimming Pool Products, Pool Supplies