Pool Safety

If you have small children in the house, or soon will – having an open pit of water in the backyard can be downright scary. Pool safety is listed among the top concerns about pool ownership, along with maintenance.

An inground pool need not be hazardous however. There are multiple ways to add Layers of Protection around a swimming pool, and a multi-faceted approach makes sense.

Door alarms, barriers, pool alarms, and supervision, swim lessons, strong pool rules – all make safer kids. Today, we focus on pool barriers – one of the best ways to improve pool safety, with solid barriers to entry.

There are many types of pool barriers, including outdoor fireplaces and kitchens, decorative walls or cabanas, neat hedges or thorny bushes, fences, pool covers, and safety nets. The easiest and most economical to install are usually pool fencing, pool covers and safety nets.

POOL SAFETY FENCING

A pool fence is required just about everywhere, but on some pools it may be just a 3-sided fence that adjoins the house, or the fence may have been taken down, after the pre-opening inspections were approved. 

A 4-sided fence, of aluminum or mesh panels, is the safest type of pool fence. Most codes specify that a pool fence must be 4 or 5 feet tall, be non-climbable (without cross rails that give a toe-hold), and have no gaps over 4 inches, between or below the slats.

Mesh pool fencing is an attractive, see-thru pool fencing that meets all safety codes, and can be installed for under $10 per linear foot, by the homeowner, or your local handyman. It’s often called removable pool fencing, because an adult can remove the fence sections, to open up the pool for a party, or when kids are older and out of harm’s way.

Mesh Pool Fencing sections are $90 for a 10 ft section. Installation requires a core drill or hammer drill with drill guide rental, for concrete pool decks. A complete surround may not be needed, if other physical barriers or landscaping  features are available.

POOL SAFETY COVERS

Even safer than a safety pool fence is a safety pool cover. These stretch drum tight across the pool, and are anchored into the pool deck. Completely non-removable by children, it can support the weight of a 4000 lb car, so it will support any small child (and large dogs, too).

Traditionally, safety covers are used as winter covers, although they can also be used during the summer, if you are patient and diligent enough to remove and replace the cover, which can take 5-15 minutes, depending on the size and shape of the cover.

Pool safety covers cost about $1.25 per square foot for rectangle stock covers, or about $3.50 per square foot for custom shaped pools. Installation requires a hammer drill to install the pool deck anchors.

Automatic pool covers are also a super safe pool barrier because they cover the pool itself, not just the area around the pool. They also save heat loss and prevent evaporation, while keeping the pool clean!Auto covers (as I call them) float on the water surface and can hold the weight of your entire family, although they must have rained water pumped off to be completely safe. Automatic covers are the most convenient cover option, but also the most expensive. Installation is not DIY friendly, and can run $8-12K for complete systems, or $4-7K for manually operated “auto” covers.

POOL SAFETY NETS

Another viable safety barrier is a relative newcomer to the pool safety scene. Pool safety nets are stretched tight across the pool to form a tight web over the pool, with openings of 3-4 inches. It lets the beauty of your pool shine through, and is much easier to put on and take off, as compared to a safety pool cover.

There are several firms that manufacture pool safety nets, each with a national network of installers, usually pool service companies. Safety nets are lightweight and can be removed in under 5 minutes, and put back on the pool in under ten.

A central tension device allows the pool owner to pull the safety net taut, making it trampoline tight. Discreet anchors are recessed into the deck and don’t require movement or action from you. Pool Safety Nets average $1500-$2500, depending on the pool shape and size, including installation.

Pool Safety Covers Vs. Pool Safety Fence Vs. Pool Safety Nets

So… which is better, a Pool Cover, Fence or Net? They all have advantages and also have limitations or disadvantages. Safety covers and Auto covers and Net covers are all very safe – when they are on the pool. Problem is – you have to diligently remember to replace the cover (completely) after using the pool. Even in the dark, or the rain, or when the kids are already in bed and you have other things to do. If it’s not on the pool, it’s not protecting the children.

Safety fences are inherently more safe, because you don’t have to remove it to use the pool, just go through the gate. The gate however, is the weak link in the chain, and more than one drowning has occurred from a gate left open, or latched improperly. And, 4′ fences, or even 5′ fences can be climbed over by an (overly) active child who moves a chair or ladder up against the fence.

As they say – there is no substitute for proper adult supervision around a swimming pool – and there is no perfect safety solution for swimming pools, they all require a certain level of vigilance and come with their share of responsibility.

Adding A Slide To Your In ground Swimming Pool

The slides that will be discussed in this article are designed to only be installed on in-ground swimming pools. If you have a concrete patio or wood deck adding a slide is no problem with the use of the proper anchors. These anchors can be installed in your existing patio to hold the slide.

You have various slide options but here are a few to consider. They all will require a water source which in most cases can easily be acquired by tapping into your pools return line.

City 2 Slide- Will have to be installed in the pool area that has at least 4’ of water. This slide is 6’ tall with acrylic construction. The weight limit is 225 Lbs.

G-Force- Will have to be installed in the pool area that has at least 4’6” of water. This slide is 6’ tall with 360 degree design. The weight limit is 250 lbs.

Wild Ride Slide- Will have to be installed in the pool area that has at least 4’ of water. This slide is 6.5” tall with stainless steel deck flanges. The weight limit is 250 lbs.

X-Stream 2 Slide- Will have to be installed in the pool area with at least 4’ of water. This slide is 6’ tall with fully molded treads. The weight limit is 250 lbs.

Zoomerang Slide- Will have to be installed in the pool area with at least 3’6” of water. The slide is 37” tall and has stainless steel rails & legs. The weight limit is 225 lbs.

Your local Medallion pool dealer can discuss each one with you and can also install the slide or you can install your own slide. If you do the install, please refer to the installation manual and install according to those instructions.

This Winter, Use Your Senses around Your Indoor Pool

This Winter, Use Your Senses around Your Indoor Pool

Is swimming your exercise of choice this winter? According to the US Census Bureau, swimming is America’s fourth most popular recreational activity after (1) walking, (2) exercising with equipment and (3) camping. Unless you’re a polar bear, indoor pools help make swimming a year-round option, and swimming brings health benefits galore. But how do you know if you are swimming in a healthy indoor pool?

The Water Quality & Health Council asks swimmers to be sensible around the pool. Translation: In addition to making smart decisions on safety, such as diving only in designated areas and not running on the deck, swimmers can use their five senses to:

1. See: You should be able to see clearly through the water to the pool floor        stripes.

2. Smell: Indoor pools should not have a strong, irritating chemical odor. This is  a common problem in indoor pools, however, stemming from (a) poor air  ventilation and/or (b) improper pool chemistry. See the text box below.

3. Touch: The tiles around the pool water line should feel clean, not slimy.

4. Hear: You may hear the sound of the pool filter at work.

5. Taste: Avoid tasting the water; swallowing even a small amount of water    could make you sick. Remind children not to drink pool water!

- See more at: http://www.bluelagoonspoolservice.com 

Swimming pool freeze

January 25, 2016 

The latest snowfall has turned the world around us into a winter wonderland. There hasn't been that much snow, but just enough to make everything look white and “clean”.

The pool water is real green, which is normal for our pools during the winter. I would much prefer that they were winterized, but I suppose we never really get to see them, so their blue-water summer state is the main priority. As long as the water is clean and sanitized throughout the swimming months, I can live with the slime in our subdivision through the cooler winter months.

This is our smallest swimming pool, also green. But at over 775,000 gallons winterizing is no easy task. Mind you, spring cleaning is a nightmare at best too. Team effort and a week’s work turns this pool into a sparkling blue pool safe for even my kids to swim in.

The snow will melt in a few days and we will be back to our mild winter weather once again. I have yet to see the pool water freeze enough to support my weight. Well, with all this turmoil of seasons out of alignment, you never know…

www.bluelagoonspoolservice.com

Pool care in winter

Pool care in winter

January 21, 2016

During the cold winter months pool water tends to stay clear with very little help. Generally algae does not appear and I hardly ever see a pool turn green. Any algae growth that does occur is extremely slow.

Of course winterizing is ideal, but many of our pools are not winterized. To these we add an occasional dose of chlorine and run the pump at least once a week. Vacuuming requirements are negligible  – once every 3 or 4 weeks is plenty under normal circumstances.

Winterized pools? We cover them and forget them until April or May, which is so much easier.

At the end of the day it is the pool owner who makes the decision and either way we are happy; our pools are always clear and blue.

www.bluelagoonspoolservice.com 

Water Safety Tips for Pets

When it comes to your furry family members, nothing is more important than keeping them safe. And if you have a pool, then safety is on your mind—no matter the season, rhyme or reason. Although winter is in full swing, your beloved pet—whether that may be a dog cat or hopping bunny rabbit—your main concern is keeping them safe from your backyard pool. Here are some great ways to shield them, protect them and guard them from potential harm.

Invest in a Pool Safety Cover

One of the most basic and efficient ways you can keep your furry friends safe, is by ensuring your pool is properly covered. At Royal Swimming Pools, you’ll find a wide range of covers to keep everyone safe and healthy (including the overall health of your pool, itself)!

Even water dogs such golden retrievers or Labradors can suffer from hypothermia in the winter months, or without the proper training, become unable to get out of the pool independently. At Royal Swimming Pools, you’ll find a variety of automatic and manual pool covers, as well as on-deck track pool covers. Find the perfect cover for you based on your budget, size and color. When it comes to your pets, nothing is more important than keeping them safe!

Purchase a Pet Alarm

Whether you have a pool or hot tub, purchasing a pool alarm for your dog is always a good idea. The truth is, no matter how much you trust your pet, you can’t trust him around water. Did you know that even a pool cover that doesn’t drain rain water, your pet can drown from playing or drinking from the puddle? When your dog wears a pool alarm, it will notify you every time your pet comes close to the pool, hot tub or other body of water. It clips to their collar and gives you peace of mind—a win/win when it comes to pet safety!

Install a Fence Around Your Pool

While your spouse, kids (and even your pesky, free loading neighbor!) knows how to properly and safely get out of your pool, does your dog? Many pet owners make the mistake of failing to train their dog for pool safety—which can lead to a fatal mistake for some dogs who aren't as strong a swimmer as other breeds are. Teach your dog where the steps in your pool are, and train them to get up and out of the pool, effectively. Also, installing a fence around your pool is another easy and effective preventive measure to ensure that your dog’s stay healthy all year long, no matter how much time they spend outside, unsupervised.

Having a pool is a luxury, and a privilege—so in order to take advantage of it to the fullest, you've got to keep everyone safe (especially your furry friends). By following our guide above, you’ll be able to do just that—all year long.

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NEW YEAR, NEW TRENDS

2015 has come and gone. Last year was filled with amazing pool and landscaping designs with inspiration found anywhere from magazines to a friend’s backyard and social media! With this inspiration came popular ideas for pool design. 2016 pool trends featured glass tiles, attached hot tubs, pool decking, geometric design, fitness features, and elaborate custom features. 2016 will highlight some of last year’s trends as well as popularize new trends.

Glass Tile

Glass tile began its rise to fame last year as we saw this more and more due to its depth of color and smooth texture. In 2016, we will see more pool owners add this to their swimming pool design to bring the look of a high-end spa to their backyard oasis.

Knife-Edge Pools

Knife-edge pools are gaining popularity, and for good reason. Infinity pools are very popular with water flowing over one edge of the pool to create a never-ending effect. Knife-edge pools differ in that water flows over all four edges of the pool, creating a mirror-effect. Because water is flowing into four slot edges around the pool’s perimeter instead of one, we award the knife-edge pool a gold medal!

Tanning Ledges

Baja shelves, or tanning ledges, have continued to grow in popularity over recent years. This ledge is submerged in about a foot of water on the edge of your pool. Because of its shallow depth, a tanning ledge is perfect for kids to play or to lay out on a lounge chair. Consider adding an option to connect an umbrella, and you’re all set!

Natural Designs

With everyone looking for environmentally-friendly options, no wonder why natural pools have become so popular. These designs are made to blend into the landscape to look like a pond or a natural spring. Take this to the next level by utilizing plants to clean the water instead of chlorine or by adding additional features such as waterfalls, rocks, or a beach entry. The sound of the natural flowing water will top off the feel of taking a dip in a forest pond or swimming beneath the mountains.   

Illusion Hot Tubs

Instead of having a detached hot tub, integrate an illusion hot tub into your pool design. These hot tubs rise out of your pool to blend into one coherent look. Remember to have this in your design during construction, as this will be difficult to add to a finished swimming pool.

Pebbled Finish

                                                

To complete your natural design or to add some shine to your pool, pebbled finishes will be seen frequently in the coming year. This aggregate material will prove to be more durable than your basic plaster finish and will allow customization. Choose from a wide range of sizes and colors to cater to your design and preference in texture. Popular pebbled finishes can be found through NPT StoneScapes, SunStone Pearl, and Pebble-Tec.

As we dip our feet into 2016, we look forward to all the creativity we will see in your backyard and the latest trends that will help ring in the new year. Show off your personality and style by designing your swimming pool today! Share with us your pools and backyards through social media, and show us how your backyard shines. 

Jandy Error Codes

Jandy Aqua Pure Error Codes

Whenever you make a high- value purchase, you never expect anything to go wrong with it, at least not right away. As consumers we assume that the more expensive a product is, the better the quality, and therefore the longer the lifespan. The logic seems legit to me. The only downside to a product failing further down the line (as opposed to earlier) is sometimes you can’t find the manual or any matching paper work to help you either with the warranty or to diagnose the issue.

It becomes especially difficult if the product, like the Jandy AquaPure Chlorine Generator, only displays an error code, but not necessarily what the error code means nor solutions to the problem. If you purchased the unit a year ago, it’s quite possible you may have misplaced or thrown out the manual. How will you diagnose the issue then?

Here at The blue lagoons Pools we come across this situation a lot. Customers call with error codes, but they are unsure what they actually mean or even how to proceed to fix the issue. With that in mind, we wanted to create an easier way for homeowners to diagnose their Jandy AquaPure. Let’s explore the codes, their meanings, and possible solutions together.

You know what’s frustrating for any pool owner? It is to come home from a long day at work only to discover that one of the pieces of your pool equipment is malfunctioning. You know what’s even more frustrating? Not knowing what the issue is. This happens to a lot of pool owners who may own the Jandy AquaPure Chlorine Generator. It’s not a testimonial of how bad the unit is,( Jandy is a great manufacturer), but rather how negligent, here I include myself, we can be with product manuals and documents. Who actually reads those, anyway? So, which error code is your Jandy unit displaying?

LEVEL 1 SERVICE CODES

Level 1 service codes are more common than level 2 codes and can typically be troubleshooted by the homeowner  and a Jandy technical representative. Although you can troubleshoot and determine the issue yourself, we do not recommend that you replace any internal parts if you do not feel comfortable.

Utilize the chart below to help identify the error code, the possible cause, and corrective action. We offer several how to guides that should assist you in diagnosing issues as well as replacing certain parts.

Code Number	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
120	Low current in forward direction to the cell.	1. Clean or replace cell if necessary  2. Check DC cord
121	Low current in reverse direction to cell.	1. Clean or replace cell if necessary 2. Check DC cord
123	Extremely low current to cell	1. Clean cell if necessary 2. Check DC cord.
124	Higher than normal current to cell	1. This is an indication of a bad back board. 2. Troubleshoot with Jandy or a licensed professional.
125	Cell needs to be cleaned.	1. Troubleshoot your tri-sensor to ensure it is working properly. 2. Clean or replace cell if necessary.
126	Low current in forward direction and VAC input voltage below 100/200 VAC	1. Check input voltage, transformer, and back board voltages. 2. Troubleshoot with Jandy or a licensed professional.
127	Low current in reverse direction and VAC input voltage below 100/200 VAC	1. Check input voltage, transformer, and back board voltages. 2. Troubleshoot with Jandy or a licensed professional.
144	Low Salinity (below 2.0 gpl)	1. Adding salt to your swimming pool  2. Add salt to pool to achieve 3.0 gpl
145	High Salinity (above 4.0 gpl)	1. Recalibrate salt reading.  2. Backwash your filter if a DE filter is installed.  3. Partially drain your pool and dilute with fresh water until salinity level returns to 3.0.
170	Possible Front board service condition or unit not correctly wired to 115 VAC	1. Typically caused by low AC voltage from back board. Check the transformer and back board. 2. Troubleshoot with Jandy or a licensed professional.
171	Possible backboard service condition	1. Indication of a faulty board. 2. Troubleshoot with Jandy or a licensed professional.
172	Indicates a flow tri sensor service or flow sensor is unplugged.	1. Clean the flow sensor, check for damage, and replace if necessary. 2. Perform diagnostic test on board to ensure the board isn't faulty.  3. If not the board, the culprit is more than likely the sensor. 4. How To Change a Jandy AquaPure Tri-Sensor
173	Low VAC input voltage and on board power supply is not regulated or unit not correctly wired.	1. Unit may be wired to improper AC voltage.  2. Check for correct voltage.
174	Pool temperature is too high for operation of AquaPure	1. Flow/ Salinity sensor indicates water temperature at sensor above 108 F. Reduce your water temperature.  2. Troubleshoot with Jandy or a licensed professional.
175	Flow sensor air lock condition or very low salinity	1. Verify proper flow/temp/salinity sensor was installed properly. 2. Check salinity. Add if necessary.

LEVEL 2 SERVICE CODES

Level 2 service codes are less common but can be more difficult to diagnose as some issues may cause more than one service code to appear. Some error codes, though, will require a licensed professional for proper troubleshooting.

Code Number	Possible Cause	Other Codes It May Generate
180	Heating sensor element not heating.	Generates code 172- Flow sensor service
181	Flow sensor temperature- sensor failure.	Generates code 172- Flow sensor service
182	Salinity sensor sees less than .2 GPL of salt. Either there's no salt in the pool or sensor is air locked.	Generates Code 175- Flow sensor airlock
183-186	Flow salinity sensor temperature probe error codes.	1.They all generates code 172- Flow sensor service is required. 2. Perform diagnostic test on board to ensure the board isn't faulty. If not the board, the tri-sensor is the culprit.  3. How To Change a Jandy AquaPure Tri-Sensor
187	Front board power supply is either too low or too high.	1. Generates code 173- Low input voltage, IF code 188 is present. 2. Generates code 170 IF 188 is not present.
188	VAC input voltage too low.	Generates code 173 if code 187 is present
189	Relay not conducting in the forward direction.	Generates code 171- Back board service
190	Relay not conducting in the reverse direction.	Generates code 171- Back board service
191	High cell current (at upper limit of A/D converter) and cell voltage falls below 19V.	Generates code 170- Front board service
192	High cell current and cell voltage falls below 19V.	Generates code 171- Back board service
193	Measured significant cell current when SCR's were turned off.	Generates code 170- Front board service
194	Cell current is 85% lower than desired and cell voltage above 19V.	Generates code 125- The cell is dirty or needs replacement
195	Salinity invalid due to out of range measurements caused by front board error.	Generates code 170- Front board service

Although the charts should help narrow down the root to the issue on your Jandy AquaPure unit, it may not completely answer all your questions or concerns.