CHOOSING THE RIGHT PUMP

The recirculation system of your pool is as important as the one in your body is to you! It consists of piping, a pump and filter. The choice of all three for each pool is a science in itself.

Providing the properly-sized pump and filter to keep the pool water sparkling and refreshing, while efficiently using the electrical energy for low-cost operation is an integral part of your builder's planning.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FILTER

The filter, when correctly chosen and sized to suit the specific requirements of the pool, can significantly add to the enjoyment of the pool by helping to keep the water sparkling clean with very little care. The most common types of filters are:

1. HI-RATE SAND

This type of filter utilizes a fine bed of silica sand through which the pool water flows. The dirt particles are trapped in the upper layer of the sand, and from time to time, when the loading of the dirt reaches a certain point, it is necessary to flush the sand clean by "backwashing" the filter.

2. DIATOMACEOUS EARTH

This type of filter contains a series of grids covered with a durable fabric. The fabric covered grids are "pre-coated" with a fine powder (diatomaceous earth) and as the water flows through, the dirt particles collect on the powder covered grids. When the dirt loading reaches a certain point, the filter must be "backwashed", then re-coated with the powder.

3. MODULAR MEDIA

This filter contains either a single "cartridge" or a series of cartridges made of filter fabric. The pool water is forced through the cartridge and the dirt particles become trapped on the surface of the fabric. When the dirt loading becomes excessive the cartridge must be removed and cleaned. No backwashing is required.

It is very important to be aware that certain communities have restrictions on the types of filters that can be used. Your builder will be aware of the codes and should be able to offer advice on the most appropriate choice for your pool.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HEATER

In most areas a pool heater of some type will prolong the swimming season and the hours during which you could swim comfortably. There are many types of heaters to choose from, such as natural gas, liquid propane gas, oil fired, electric, solar powered, and heat pumps.

Each different type of heater has its own efficiency rating and the relative costs of the various energy sources have a large role to play in determining the type of heater most suitable. Discuss your options with your builder and select the type which represents the most benefit.

To complement the heater and to reduce the heat loss from the pool, a pool cover should also be considered. There are many types of covers, each with their own features including efficiency, durability, and safety, Discuss the option of a cover with your builder to determine if it is in your interest to use one.