Pool Service & Repairs Archives - Page 4 of 7

Fox Pools is a leading provider of pool service & repairs and offers expert knowledge in the pool industry. Your local expert in pool service repairs – Fox Pools offers basic maintenance and cleaning advice.

How to Clean a Pool in Virginia

March 1, 2023/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

Having a pool in Virginia is not something you can construct and leave alone. It requires care and maintenance, just like any other asset you own. It’s important to clean your pool on a regular basis. It’s different than washing a bathroom or a car to cleaning a pool. In this article, we’ll show you how to clean a pool in your Virginia backyard so that it is safe for swimmers.

How to clean a pool: Must-have equipment.

Pool brush

Simply put, a pool brush is any brush that can scrub the pool’s walls or floor. You’ll need two different types in this scenario. A pair, one for the ground and the other for the walls and ladder.

Skimmer net

Floating debris, such as insects and leaves, is a regular annoyance in outdoor pools. You can easily remove them with a skimmer net.

Telescopic pole

A manual vacuum, skimmer net, and pool brush should all be attached to the pool maintenance kit’s rod. Nevertheless, a handle or rod is ideal, you can attach individual brushes permanently to the rod. You can use this in place of an expensive telescoping pole.

Automatic pool cleaner

A pool cleaner that operates on its own is called an automatic pool cleaner. But it is more expensive and may not be as effective as cleaning manually in some cases. The most expensive cleaners can perform the best job of pool cleanup.

Manual pool vacuum

You can remove accumulated dust on the pool floor with the help of a pool vacuum. In comparison to some automatic pool cleaners, it comes with higher recommendations. This is due to its potential for greater thoroughness and the fact that you can determine when it is finished by operating it yourself. Unfortunately, it requires a lot of work, especially if your pool is larger.

How to clean a pool: Steps

· Ready with the right chemicals and equipment

Before you start pool cleanup, you should ensure that you have all the necessary chemicals and equipment on hand.

· Up-to-date chemicals and working equipment

You can avoid a lot of trouble if you make sure the cleaning supplies and tools are in good shape. The chemicals in a swimming pool might be harmful to swimmers if they have expired.

· Removing debris from the water by skimming it

Here’s when having a skimmer would be helpful. Papers, dead bugs, leaves, seeds, and other debris can all be skimmed from the water’s surface with its help.

· Scrub the walls and the steps or ladder

Choose the right brush for the job. Specifically, the one made for thoroughly washing the sidewalls. This is useful for dislodging debris from the pool’s walls and eliminating algae growth.

· Clean the pool floor

Dust can settle to the bottom of outdoor pools, leaving unsightly stains. There are two options here: either using a vacuum cleaner to pick up all the dust and dirt on the floor or a broom and dustpan. If you don’t have a vacuum, you can use the brush and let the pool filter handle the trash. This is the traditional approach, although it has drawbacks when dealing with large waste such as twigs, stones, etc.

· Unclogging the filter

A vacuum cleaner helps to ensure the filter doesn’t clog too frequently. But the filter can still clog, especially if you don’t use a vacuum cleaner. For this reason, you’ll need to clear it of dirt frequently. Keeping the space around the filter clear of trash is a smart way to keep it from clogging on a frequent basis. When you’re not using the pool, a cover can prevent debris from falling into the water and spreading bacteria.

The heavier debris that may have fallen into the pool needs manual removal, which is a drawback. Or, if the pool is not protected, debris such as twigs could fall into it during a storm. A pool rake might be useful for this task. Use a plastic rake to avoid scratching the pool’s walls and floor.

· Check the pH levels of your pool water

The optimal range for a swimming pool’s PH is between 7.2 and 7.8. Nonetheless, 7.4–7.6 is the ideal pH range to maintain. To achieve this, you should use a pH reducer or adjuster. You can get a good pH meter or tester from a store that sells pool supplies if you want to test the water’s pH.

How to clean a pool – Conclusion

When a swimming pool stays clean on a regular basis, it is always safe for people to use. It’s not enough to clean the pool; you must also apply chemicals that sanitize the pool water and keep the PH at the proper levels. Remember also to stop algae growth, keep the water at the right hardness, and stop the formation and discoloration of water from common metals like iron and copper in piped water. Fox Pools is a pool service and repair company. We do it all: openings, closings, inspections, repairs, safety coverings, and more for your swimming pool in Virginia! Need help about how to clean a pool? Contact us today!

What Pool Filter is the Best?

February 11, 2023/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

A pool filter is an essential piece of equipment for any pool. The water in your pool will turn green if the filter and pump aren’t working properly. But which of the DE, cartridge, and sand filters is ideal for a swimming pool? We often meet pool owners torn between sticking with their current cartridge filter and upgrading to a DE or sand system.

Every type of filter has benefits and drawbacks, and every pool owner has different objectives. When deciding on a filter for your pool, it’s crucial to think about your preferences and needs. The best pool filter is the one that meets your specific needs.

What is a pool filter?

Undoubtedly, the pool filter is a crucial component. It’s an important part of the filtration system. It helps to remove contaminants from the pool water before refilling it with purified water.

Reasons why you should invest in a pool filter:

It promotes a balanced environment in the pool, which has several benefits.
Maximize the effectiveness of the chlorine in your pool
Pool water stays clean at all times

Which is the best pool filter?

D.E., cartridge, and sand filters are the three most common options for swimming pool filtration. Knowing each type’s performance will help you decide which is best for your pool. This is because each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Diatomaceous earth filters

For larger pools, this pool filter is a frequent choice. They are beneficial for pools in dirtier places, like those bordered by trees, where trash is more likely to settle. They do a great job of removing debris of all kinds from the water in the pool.

Because they are so good at filtering, diatomaceous earth filters can get rid of particles as small as 5 microns.

Pros:

With proper care, filters can serve their purpose for years
Only every few months do you need to perform a backwashing
Best at filtering microscopic dust and dirt

Cons:

Possible disposal restrictions
It is possible for filter-grade DE powder to harm humans and animals.
Higher upkeep costs
Costliest Choice

Cartridge Filters

The vast majority of pools today use cartridge filters. A wide variety of cartridges are available, each with its own specifications. In order to collect dust and other debris, most cartridges feature polypropylene or polyester and have grids and pleats.

Filter cartridges are often constructed from nylon, polyester, or paper. Small particles are no problem for these filters.

Although they have a longer lifespan and are less expensive than other types of filters, they need more maintenance on a regular basis. If there is a lot of debris in your pool water and you use the pool regularly, make sure you clean the cartridge filters approximately every 2 weeks. Simply removing the filter and washing it off with water will suffice when it comes time to clean it. After clearing away any accumulated debris on the outside, insert the filter back into the pump. Every two to three years, you ought to replace the filters.

Pros:

Easily removable and replaceable
The reduction of water wastage
Greater filtering efficiency

Cons:

Frequent cleaning is essential
The cost of cartridges is high

Sand Filters

Sand filters are the most popular pool filters in a commercial setting. Compared to other filter options, they offer the best value. They effectively filter out dirt and decaying matter from the water in your pool. When it comes to human hair, the 20–40 micron range is where sand filters excel at capturing pollutants.

This accumulation of trapped particles reduces the efficiency of your sand filter over time. If you want it to keep functioning as intended, you’ll need to replace it every five to seven years.

Pros:

It’s possible that backwashing will throw off the pool’s chemistry.
Minimal maintenance needs
Is not the best course of action
Easy to implement
There can be a waste of water if backwashed too often.
Is the most cost-effective choice
Adaptable to pools of any size

Conclusion

Indeed, there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to pool filters. To get the most out of your swimming pool, you need to have a pool filter that is ideal for the specific needs of a pool like yours.

Fox Pools is here to help if you still have trouble deciding on a pool filter. When selecting a filter for your pool, we can help you sort through the options and narrow down the one that best suits your needs.

Call us if you need help locating filter suppliers, scheduling filter maintenance, or replacing worn-out filters. We’re happy to answer any queries you may have, thanks to our many years of knowledge in the field.

How Does a Pool Filter System Work?

February 11, 2023/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

For pool filtration systems to function, they need to filter water from the outside world. It will use filtration equipment before pumping the water into the pool. This functional pool filter system ensures constant circulation of the pool’s water. All pools, even the purely aesthetic ones, have filtration systems. You should remove the huge debris floating on the water’s surface and sinking to the pool’s floor before you use the pool filter system. The manual collection of substances can affect the lifespan of the pool filter system. These substances can clog the system and prevent it from functioning as intended.

What does a pool filter system do?

The filtration system is crucial for maintaining a healthy swimming pool environment. The pool filter system removes visible and unseen debris and bacteria from the pool. The filter and the pump keep the pool water circulating and clear.

Types of Pool Filters

When shopping for a filter for your pool, you have various options. You may be wondering what type of pool is best for an inground pool. Your time, budget, and needs will all play a role. Here are the three categories of filters:

DE filter
Cartridge filter
Sand filter

Features of the pool filter system:

It’s important that your pool’s pump and filter work together smoothly. Determine the pump pressures by taking the working pressures of the filters and adding around 20%.
When deciding how many filters to put in, the size of the pools needs to be taken into account.
Filtering systems last for quite some time. A typical filtering system has a lifespan of five to ten years. After that time elapses, it will no longer function properly and need renewal.
Fiber-coated filter systems are popular because they are less likely to change shape when they get wet.
Depending on how you will use the pool, the best thing to do is install a filter system that can do the right things.
Look for filtration systems from companies committed to reducing their impact on the environment and the cost of electricity. In this way, you can achieve a more cost-effective system.

The importance of a pool filter system

The pool filter system plays a crucial role in the year-round and seasonal use of the pools’ water circulation. To maintain clean pool water, it is necessary to filter and separate various contaminants. When you ignore a pool’s filtration system or infrequently use it, the water takes on a murky, unsanitary appearance. The health of people is also negatively affected by the current scenario. Many infectious diseases and skin problems are due to swimming in dirty pool water. Infections of the eyes, throat, sinuses, and ears are some examples.

How a pool filter system works

Filters specifically help in the sanitization process. Most pool owners know that if the water in their pool sits still for even a few hours, algae will begin to form. This is why most pool pumps run for at least eight to ten hours per day. Learn how to purify your pool water step by step.

Filter

The filter cartridges need cleaning or backwashing on a regular basis.
The pressure gauges at the filter’s inlet and outlet reveal how much of the flow is being blocked. A buildup of debris and dirt happens when the inlet pressure is significantly higher than the outlet pressure.
Depending on your filter model, gravity, DE, sand, or cartridges draw the water downward.
The filthy water from the pool is routed through the entrance pipe of the filter and into the distribution head that is housed in the tank as part of the process of filtering the water in the pool.

Pump

A strainer ring, bucket, lid, impeller, diffuser, and shaft seal make up the pump’s wet end. After pumping, the water moves to the filter via the outflow.
The most crucial component of the pool system is this. The electric motor inside the pump’s casing spins the impeller, which then draws water from the drains. The pool’s water is redirected to the pool pump’s wet end after passing through the skimmers.

A pool is useless if it doesn’t have a filter. The filtration process removes waste pollutants from the water supply, both visible and invisible. Swimmers can spread a wide variety of bacteria and viruses through their feces, sweat, saliva, and urine. Using a pool filter system, you can reduce bacteria and algae growth in your pool.

Install a pool filter system

Fox Pools is the place to go for expert assistance with pool service, including filter cleaning. Our filter cleaning service will ensure that your pool is always clean and the water is clear. Get in touch to try our full suite of exceptional pool services.

How to Clean a Cartridge Filter

February 10, 2023/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

Nothing beats cooling off with a refreshing swim in the sweltering summer months. To ensure good cleanliness and maintenance, you should use pool filters. A cartridge filter requires regular cleaning, which can be time-consuming but is necessary. As soon as you see that the filter is dirty, take it out of the filter assembly and give it a good cleaning with a garden hose. Do not use the spray nozzle when rinsing, as this could push particles deeper into the cartridge. Rinse the filter as soon as you remove it from the assembly. This is because the filter material can become more difficult to clean if it dries out.

How to clean your pool cartridge filter

There’s no need to go to great lengths or spend a lot of money to clean your cartridge filter. In contrast to other filter types like DE and sand filters, cartridge filters do not require backwashing. Two or three items are all you need to get the work done efficiently and effectively. It’s necessary to have the following:

Muriatic acid
Dishwashing liquid or commercial filter cleaner
Bucket
Garden hose

Steps

Shut down the filter

Disconnecting the electricity from the pool’s filtration system is the first step in cleaning the cartridge filter. While you’re cleaning the filter, make sure the timers are off.

Bleed air

When you turn off your filtration system, the compressed air needs to be bled. To do this, open the air relief valve, which releases any pressure in the filter. By doing so, any accumulated water in the pool’s filter can be removed.

Remove the cartridge filter

In order to remove the cartridge filter from the filter unit, you will need to unscrew the model-specific lock ring, knobs, or tension clamps. Check the manual with the device to learn how to remove the filter. What you’ll learn here should help you safely remove the filter.

Empty the cartridge filter and clean it.

Just point your garden hose at a 45-degree angle to clean the cartridge filter, and use the nozzle’s moderate spray setting to flush the filter. A vigorous spray can damage the pleats in the filter, so avoid using a pressure cleaner. A cartridge filter can be easily maintained with a garden hose, and there’s no need for backwashing.

To thoroughly clean a dirty filter, it is better to work from the top down. Repeat the cleaning and rinsing steps until the filter is spotless and the water is clear.

It’s possible that after the initial cleaning, your filter won’t look quite as bright white as it did when you originally got it. It’s very natural for there to be some staining.

Soaking the filter

It may be necessary to soak the filter in order to remove the particles. Clogging can occur in the filter due to oils from use, such as those found in suntan oils, sweat, and sunscreen. To remove any remaining oils, soak the filter in a professional filter. Oils trapped in a filter can prevent the pleats from functioning properly; thus, it’s important to clean the filter often.

Your cartridge filter can be cleaned of oils by submerging it in a mixture of water and a commercial pool cleaner in a large bucket. Without a dedicated pool cleaner, a solution of one cup of dishwashing liquid to 5 gallons of water would do.

Depending on how hardened the debris and dirt are, the filter may need to be immersed for up to ten hours. Soak for at least an hour, preferably longer if time is of the essence.

Rinse off the filter

Take the filter out of the bucket and wash the cleaner.

Soak again with muriatic acid

Calcium carbonate, iron, algae, and other minerals cause clogging in your filter, so you may need to soak it again. This time, you should let it soak in a mixture of 20 parts water and 1 part muriatic acid. Just drop the filter into the liquid and wait for the bubbling to cease before pulling it out.

Repeat the rinsing process

As soon as you take the cartridge filter out of the mixture, you should give it a good rinse to get rid of any residual muriatic acid.

If, after following these instructions, your filter is still unclean, you may need to purchase a new cartridge filter instead. On average, you should change these filters approximately once every three to five years.

Return the cartridge filter

After thoroughly cleaning the filter, you should replace it in its housing unit. Make sure that all of its components are in the right locations and fastened appropriately.

Initiate the purification process by turning on the filters

At this point, you can finish up by restarting the system. Having a clean filter will allow your pool cleaner to generate more suction and move more water.

Need help cleaning a cartridge filter?

The knowledgeable staff at Fox Pools is available to answer your concerns and provide you with additional guidance regarding cleaning your pool’s cartridge filter. Contact us today!

A Guide to Properly Opening and Closing Your Pool

December 16, 2022/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

You’ve created a resort in your own backyard. The neighbors are green with jealousy over your luxurious backyard pool. When summer rolls around, everyone wants to come to your place for barbecues, parties, and unforgettable times. But there’s a terrible price to pay for being the place where good things happen, which is maintenance. Every person who owns a pool knows how important it is to open and close it down at the end of each season. You can save money on repairs and maintenance by following the correct procedures for opening and closing your pool.

Fox Pools offers these services as part of a full seasonal package that includes pool opening and closings, as well as repairs.

Closing Your Pool

You need to remember that closing the pool is the same as winterizing. It’s trickier than the opening and needs more prep work. When water freezes, its volume increases, causing significant stress on the pipes and other equipment. This happens if you don’t blow them out or drain them properly. Before closing your pool, you need to have your water professionally tested and balanced at your local pool store. Most places do testing for free!

Some of the most important things we do during pool closings are:

· Get rid of the pool toys, leaves, and debris.

· Add winterizing chemical kits with the appropriate dosage

· Lower your water level to the appropriate point to account for rainfall.

· Prepare your lines and machinery for the winter. This includes blowing out all the lines with a high-pressure air blower and capping them off.

· Remove handrails, ladders, and other accessories

· Clean your DE or cartridge filter.

· Put on the cover for the winter.

Opening Your Pool

Like most people, you undoubtedly have mixed feelings about opening your pool. There’s no need to dread opening your own pool each spring. Every spring, we use the same techniques and equipment to open hundreds of pools of varying sizes and shapes.

Here are the important procedures we follow while opening your pool for the swimming season:

· First, clean the pool cover of any debris, leaves, dirt, etc.

· If any water has accumulated on the pool cover, empty it.

· Remove and store the cover.

· Assembly your system and start the filtering process.

· Vacuum the pool with 2 different types of vacuums, brush, and net.

· Shock pool and add algaecide.

· This is just a one-day visit with no follow-up cleanings and no chemical balancing. It is expected the customer will take over for the follow-up cleanings and have the water tested at your local pool store.

Let’s look at some reasons why you should hire a contractor to close your pool:

It makes pool opening easier

Since closing the pool maintains hygienic conditions, you won’t need to do as much to get the pool opened again. A clean and balanced pool is essential to an easy pool opening.

This helps maintain the purity of the pool water

The most noticeable advantage of winterizing your pool is the ability to maintain pristine water conditions. After emptying the pool of trash and using the right chemicals, you can cover it without further concern for contamination. A vacation from daily pool maintenance for a number of months is another perk.

Your family will be safer as a result

The use of a cover for the pool’s surface is an integral part of the closing process. A pool cover may look like a tarp to some, but most are quite sturdy and can carry quite a bit of weight. It helps protect your kids or pets against a potential fall or injury from this.

Your pool equipment will be safe from harm

The cost of the pool itself is substantial, as is the potential cost of the necessary equipment. Properly opening and closing your pool prevents frozen pipes and other damage to your pool’s equipment when you’re not using it.

Important information regarding opening and closing your pool

Pool closing

Using high-powered blowers, we drain the pool to the bottom of the skimmer, seal off the plumbing lines, clean the filter, clean the pool of leaves and debris, put away the ladders, and cover the pool. We can also supply and add the necessary chemical kits for winterizing at this time.

Pool opening

Your pool cover will be taken off, and stored while we reinstall the pool’s ladders and handrails and reassemble the pool system. We’ll also run a series of tests to ensure everything is working. When we open a pool, we clean the pool with two different vacuums, a brush, and a net. We also add the needed shock and algaecides. We do not do any follow-up cleaning or balancing, the opening is a one day event. Clients should take charge of this part of the pool opening process. In most cases, this results in significant financial and time savings for them. In case you need any assistance or have any questions about opening and closing your pool, we’re here to help.

Let the professionals handle opening and closing your pool.

The process of opening and closing your pool can be time-consuming and laborious. Ignoring even the smallest of details might result in significant losses. Avoid this hassle by signing up for expert pool closing services. Ensure the safety of your pool and family by scheduling the opening and closing of your pool with Fox Pools today. Contact us today!

Why You Should Upgrade Your Pool Equipment

December 9, 2022/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

A pool is a significant investment that will help to improve not just the material value of your home but also your mental and physical well-being. For this reason, it’s best to upgrade your pool equipment so it runs smoothly and lasts as long as possible.

Better water quality and power-saving options are just two of the many benefits you can get when you upgrade your pool equipment. You will also get lower maintenance costs and greater peace of mind.

Signs that you should upgrade your pool equipment

There are several signs of a malfunctioning pump, which is an indication that it needs replacement.

Here are some of the most obvious red flags you need to watch out for.

Blowing bubbles and spitting water

Do you ever wonder where all those bubbles come from in the pool? You may have experienced real suction when swimming. Regardless, these red flags suggest an air leak in your pump. This is a sign that your pool pump isn’t purifying the water as it should, so you should get help immediately. The pool water may become foggy or dirty, posing a health danger to those who swim in it.

Grinding and screeching noises

These noises are always a bad indication. They are a sign that your pool’s equipment needs help. If you hear these sounds, the pump might need new bearings, or the impeller may be worn out. Worn bearings can lead to overheating, which can damage the windings of your pool pump.

Even though bearings are cheap, replacing worn ones requires disassembling your pool pump. Furthermore, noise from most bearings comes from a leaking pump seal, which also needs replacement. Doing this yourself would be a bad idea because of the complexity of the problem; use experts instead.

Shaking and rumbling noises

An overly vibrating pump motor can produce noises like this. These sounds come from the pump’s vibrations, which cause it to bounce against the pool’s surface. Loose or dislodged parts are a common source of excessive vibrations. Premature wear and failure of your pool’s equipment might be due to cavitation.

If you hire a pool service as soon as possible, it may require minor adjustments. If the pump is not protected from “bumping” against the surface, it may lead to damage. If your pump has cracks, it will not only make ominous noises but also need replacement.

Why you need to upgrade your pool equipment

You should consider the following benefits of replacing your old pool filter and pump with a high-quality cartridge filter:

Reduced Use and Need for Chemicals

You’ll need more chlorine, algaecides, and clarifiers to treat water filtered through older systems. You need much less of these chemicals with modern, high-tech equipment and superior filters to maintain particle-free water.

Better Water Clarity

The water quality in the pool can be greatly enhanced by installing new pool filters and pumps. You may take comfort in knowing that your family and friends will be swimming in water that is visually more appealing and significantly safer.

Less Vacuuming

When a good pump and filter are in place, it takes a lot less time and effort to do the boring but necessary daily task of vacuuming.

Choose a high-quality cartridge filter made for maximum efficiency, and you may never have to vacuum again.

Upgrade your pool equipment

Each and every homeowner should be aware of the following changes to swimming pool equipment. Deciding where to invest your money ought to become somewhat easier.

Variable speed pool pumps

If you have a standard pool, the pump’s energy consumption may exceed that of all of your other home appliances. With the help of variable-speed technology, you may run your pump at extremely low speeds. This will drastically cut your energy costs.

Robotic pool cleaners

Nobody likes maintaining their pool since it’s a hassle. Turn on the robotic cleaner, place it in the pool, and it will have cleaned the entire pool to a sparkling shine in a few hours. Automated pool cleaning systems simplify maintenance immensely.

Salt Water Systems

Newer, more efficient sanitation methods, such as salt water systems, are gradually replacing the older, more toxic methods, such as chlorine treatment. Pool owners can save time and money by switching to a salt system. This will help eliminate the need for weekly chlorine tablet additions and produce smoother, silkier pool water.

Let’s upgrade your pool equipment

Have you noticed that you’re constantly vacuuming, skimming, and cleaning? Do you buy expensive chemicals unnecessarily? If your pool’s pump and filter are the original pieces, it may be time to upgrade your pool equipment.

Contact Fox Pools if you have any issues with your pool’s filter and pump or inquiries regarding pools in general. You can count on us for help with any aspect of your pool.

The Best Safety Cover Options in 2022

December 2, 2022/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

The idea of pool covers is obvious to you; however, are you aware that there are several types on the market? The two most popular types are a pool safety cover and a winter cover. Fox Pools is here to help you with either of these purchases for your pool.

In spite of the fact that a winter cover will shield your pool from the weather and make opening your pool much simpler in the spring if you have young children or pets in the area, you will certainly want more from your cover. The level of protection a safety cover gives is higher than that of a light winter cover because it lasts longer.

Here are some options to help you determine which safety cover might be best for you.

Automatic Pool Safety Cover

This sort of protection is the most practical and straightforward choice. It can support a great deal of weight and be set up under the pool’s lip so that it blends in perfectly with the pool’s edges.

In addition, you may open and close it with the turn of a key. This type of safety cover allows you the convenience of daily use, opening and closing as needed. Just turn the key to keep kids and pets out of the pool when it’s not in use. The installation of an automated cover should be left to experts.

Pros

Needs a drain or pump to remove water
Almost impenetrable
More aesthetically pleasing, but with a narrower color palette to choose from
Operated by a key, switch, or other electronic devices to make sure that only people who are supposed to be there can get in.

Solid Pool Safety Cover

This safety cover provides the same protection as a mesh cover but without the risk of water seepage. The absence of debris will aid in maintaining a steady water level. An effective safety cover can make opening your pool in the spring a breeze.

Since fewer particles are making it through, the water quality should improve, and the efficacy of the chemicals used to treat it should last longer.

Pros

This cover is foldable, so it’s simple to stow away when not in use.
The springs and anchors that hold the cover to your pool deck make it strong enough to withstand the weight of any debris, snow, or water that may accumulate.
Most of the time, these are made from tarps or materials that look like vinyl. They are easy to cut to fit any shape or size of the pool.
Needs a drain or pump to remove water
Debris, water, and sunlight cannot penetrate solid pool covers. Thus, your pool will be protected from the growth of algae. Opening your pool in the spring will be less hassle if you take precautions to prevent algae and unclean water from entering it.

Mesh Pool Safety Cover

This safety cover features tiny openings so that some water can get through. With freezing weather and ice, water levels tend to rise and fall, which is helpful. However, this opens the door for smaller debris to enter the pool water.

Any person or pet that accidentally falls onto a mesh safety cover will not be injured. Families can breathe a sigh of relief with this extra layer of security. It will protect your loved ones and your investment from harm.

Pros

It’s secured to your pool surface using springs and anchors so that it can withstand any accumulation of debris or snow. It will prevent huge objects, like tree limbs, from getting through.
These covers are the most cost-effective option for those on a tight budget.
Like the solid safety covers, you can fold and stow them away when not in use. But they are usually lighter in weight, making them more manageable.
They may be customized to the shape of your pool.
Water will drain through the mesh, eliminating the need to pump standing water.
They can support a lot of weight if properly fitted and maintained. Humans and other creatures stay safe from harm.
Investing in this safety cover is the safest and most cost-effective alternative. This is because regular cleaning and care may last up to fifteen years.

Consider your pool’s needs and budget while deciding on a cover. Pool owners should make the prudent choice of adding a safety cover.

Conclusion

One of these incredible safety covers could keep your investment and loved ones safe all year. Reach out to Fox Pools if you’re interested in purchasing a safety cover for your swimming pool. We can’t wait to show you these choices, discuss how they’ll work in your area, and provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

The Importance of Pool and Spa Inspections

November 18, 2022/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

Regular pool and spa inspections are important for maintaining the value of your pool and property. Having a house inspection performed simultaneously with a pool inspection is unnecessary. As a bonus, maintenance checks can save you money. This is because they will help identify problems before they become expensive to repair.

Pool and spa inspections are useful not only for prospective buyers but also for current homeowners. The pool and spa professionals at Fox Pools provide top-notch service. Our trained professionals will look at every part of your pool and spa in detail and ensure everything is working correctly.

Why pool and spa inspections?

Value is often increased when a home has a pool, spa, or hot tub. However, if problems aren’t addressed in a timely manner, the associated costs might be quite high. Our thorough pool and spa inspections will help you understand every facet of the property. If one is present, the pool and spa will be thoroughly inspected to guarantee proper operation of all features.

Maintaining your pool or spa in good shape requires regular inspections and maintenance. There are many moving parts in a pool or spa, from the correct application of chemical treatments to the secure operation of electrical and heating equipment. If you hire a professional inspector on a regular basis, they might be able to spot problems before they cause a lot of damage.

Before finalizing the sale of your pool or spa, get it inspected by a professional. And it’s important to know what you’re getting into when buying a house or other property that includes a pool and spa. Some problems may only require minor adjustments, but others may cause major difficulties.

What Is Included in pool and spa inspections?

It’s a good idea to review these frequent pool and spa issues before accompanying your pool inspector on a stroll. The following are common issues found by Fox Pools inspectors:

The Swimming Pool Itself

Pool condition is usually the first thing inspected. The pool itself, its shell, and the pool deck are all included. The following are things that they check for:

Grout and tiles
Pool drains
Water Level
Staining and surface condition: give it a rough feel to assess severity.
Damage to the deck
Skimmers and basket
Lights, electricity, and other electrics
Jets
Waterfalls and other water features
Cracks
Security measures, including alarms, fences, and baby gates

The Equipment

It is not common practice for home inspectors to check for basic cleaning tools like brooms and dustpans. But the inspectors will check the heaters, pipes, pumps, filters, etc.

The inspectors will be looking for the following:

Filter gauge for internal pressure
Electrical breakers, panels, and equipment
Pipe condition/routing
Filter leaks and condition
Evidence of leaks, wear and cracking
Lighting Equipment
Bromine or chlorinator dispenser
Spa Accessories
Operation and condition of the pool pump
Operation, condition, and age of the heater

When inspecting machinery, inspectors tend to stick at the water’s edge. This means they begin from the point where they introduce the water (the pool pump). Then, they work their way to the end of the pool, examining each component for signs of wear and tear.

Pool and Spa Accessories

Door and pool screen enclosures are discussed here, along with other safety features. The condition of the screen enclosure, including any structural damage, is part of the pool and spa inspections.

Bonding is a part of the inspection that should be performed on the screen enclosure. By connecting the metal parts of pool equipment, the electric current is spread out instead of being concentrated in places where it could shock a swimmer.

There is a critical distance at which metal objects must be properly connected (and what type of metal objects must be used). The bonding has finally been connected to the ground, keeping electricity from going into the pool and spa.

So, are pool and spa inspections worth it?

With the help of a professional inspector, you may get a better idea of the pool and spa and its equipment’s overall condition. If you can’t do it yourself, it is strongly suggested that you have a professional look at the condition of a pool and spa and its equipment.

In addition, a pool inspector must check that all safety features are in working order. It’s lifesaving if you have kids and a great help if you don’t. Future costs are something else that a professional can help you with.

Make pool and spa inspections a habit.

Don’t view pool and spa inspections as a bothersome duty. Think of it as an investment in making your home a peaceful, secure place for your loved ones. Keep in mind that a pool can increase the value of your house, but only if it is in excellent shape. You can save money on expensive repairs if you maintain your pool properly. When you take care of the little things, you can relax and enjoy your pool and spa without worrying about anything. So, let the professionals at Fox Pools locate them for you. We offer detailed pool and spa inspections.

Understanding the Types of Pool Pump Motors

November 11, 2022/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

Swimming pools are a popular amenity throughout all age groups. They are a terrific way to cool off during the summer, keep in shape, and spend time with loved ones. However, there’s more to it than just having one. They need effort, resources, and expertise. Getting the best pool pump motors is important for the success of your backyard paradise as a whole.

There are few things more important than a well-functioning pool pump motor when it comes to maintaining the cleanliness and clarity of your swimming pool right now. The pool pump motors draw dirty water into the filter systems. The best pool pump motors allow for thorough water cleaning.

What are pool pump motors?

These pool equipment help to power and circulate the pool water. It’s essential to keep the pool water clean and safe for swimming.

The water in the pool is sucked out by the pool pump motors and sent on its way for purification (via filtration, heating, and chlorination). In the end, the motor will return the purified water to the pool for use by everyone.

Choosing pool pump motors: some important considerations

Pool size

The capacity of the pool in gallons is proportional to its dimensions. The flow rate is the amount of water transported in a given amount of time.

On average, it takes four to six hours for a swimming pool’s water to complete an entire circulation cycle. This must occur twice daily, at the very least. Even though this won’t ensure that every last drop of water can be recycled, it greatly improves the likelihood. To figure out the flow rate, you need to know how often the water cycle happens as a whole.

The availability of outdoor space

Before putting in a pool pump, you should measure the available space in your outdoor space. A reasonably sized pump will be adequate to maintain the pool’s water temperature within the constraints of an indoor swimming facility. However, you can install huge pool pump motors in the backyard with plenty of space. Therefore, having one is essential for an outdoor pool.

Parts of swimming pool pump motors

A pool pump motor consists of these three main parts:

Housing
Motor
Impeller

The essential components of a pool pump are the motor, the impeller, and the housing. The motor starts the pumping process by turning a rotor called an impeller. The pool’s water is sucked up by the inverted blade and sent toward the filter.

The housing features a lightweight, corrosion-proof composite that can withstand extreme heat and pressure. It houses the pump’s motor and impeller as well as the strainer basket, diffuser, and cover.

A pump’s impeller can be severely damaged by debris like leaves, twigs, and pebbles if caught in the strainer basket. Regular cleaning of the basket is necessary to ensure its continued usefulness.

Types of pool pump motors

A larger pool will require a more powerful pump. If you buy the incorrect pool pump, it can cause damage to your pool and the motor, in addition to using more power than necessary.

To assist you in selecting the best pool pump motors, we have included the following descriptions of the various models currently on the market:

Single-speed

It’s the go-to option for most pool owners because it’s cheap. It pumps water as effectively as any other pump, so buying one is a wise investment. But because of its higher energy requirements, this pump is ideal for infrequently used pools. One good way to avoid raising your electric bill is to turn it off while you aren’t using your backyard pool.

Dual-speed

This pool pump features both high and low pumping speeds. Low speed is best for smaller pools because of energy savings. High-velocity pool pump motors are enough for average-sized swimming pools. In addition, they operate as quickly as single-speed models.

Multiple-speed

This equipment has variable speeds. Manufacturer-set speeds are fixed, and you can’t change them. You may be able to adjust the velocity of the water in your backyard pool, depending on its size and your needs.

Variable-speed

You can adjust the flow rate of these pool pump motors using the included variable speed controller. These days, some models can do that automatically. However, it is also the most expensive type of pool because of its superior efficiency.

Conclusion

Picking a pump for your pool doesn’t have to be difficult. Determine the pool’s volume and how fast you want the water to circulate to determine the best model for your needs.

Then, choose whether a variable-speed, dual-speed or single-speed pump would suit your needs. Once you’ve decided, it’s time to research pool pump motors. Take a look at the voltages and flow rates to ensure they suit your needs. Fox Pools is the company to call if you’re looking for professional pool service. Contact us today!

Maintenance of Swimming Pool Pump Motors

November 4, 2022/0 Comments/in Pool Service & Repairs/by ccmadmin

Pool pump motors are among the most vital mechanical components. If the motor in your pool pump stops working, you won’t have any water circulation. This means that your pool will quickly turn into a pond. A pool’s heater won’t work, there won’t be any filtration, and the water quality will quickly deteriorate if you don’t repair the pump motor as soon as possible. Until you replace or fix the swimming pool pump motors, features like the slides, sheer descents, jet boost, and waterfall may not work as they should.

Basic maintenance routine on swimming pool pump motors.

Lubricate the parts

Maintaining smooth operation and preventing parts from scraping against one another requires, among other things, routinely checking the condition of the ball bearings. Lubricate the ball bearings or replace them if they are permanently sealed.

Ensure adequate airflow is present

Lack of airflow, and consequent overheating, is a common cause of motor failure in swimming pool pump motors. One of the most crucial preventative maintenance tasks is ensuring the motor can get enough air to stay cool. If you want it to last a long time, do this.

You should clean the air inlets so they can draw in as much air as possible.

It’s also important to leave a room between the outer motor cover and the motor. This allows air to circulate and moisture to evaporate if you’re using one. The motor will quickly rust and wear out if you expose it to moisture.

Avoid dirt

Even though it may seem like a simple choice, avoiding sweeping the area under running swimming pool pump motors can help them last longer.

Any dust or dirt stirred up near the motor during operation will get sucked into it. Always sweep the area around the motor when it is not in use. You should also try to direct dirt in the opposite direction of the arrows on the motor housing.

Locate the best spot

The pump and motor for the pool should stay out of the rain and wind by being put in a protected area. Don’t put it where it can get splashed. It’s good to find a suitable area to store the motors before using them.

For the same reason, you shouldn’t put motors where they might become wet or flooded. You must never let water get into the engine of the pool pump under any circumstances.

You should never allow pool water to enter the motor, so any leaking parts of the pump need fixing immediately.

Off-season storage that works

Once the cold weather sets in, pools are closed for the season. However, you should not leave the swimming pool pump motors in their current state. Protect the motor from the elements and dirt by covering it. But avoid airtight storage by not enclosing its parts in plastic.

Airtight plastics can trap moisture, leading to motor rust and corrosion while sitting in your garage all winter. Keep the motors in a clean, dry environment, away from any potential sources of damage.

The importance of safe chemical storage

Having the pool’s chlorine and other chemicals near the motor is not advisable. Chemical fumes should not be used or stored anywhere near the motor. This is because it could cause internal corrosion.

How will you know if swimming pool pump motors need repair?

While complete motor failure might occur unexpectedly, most of the time, there are warning signals that a trained pool operator can recognize. Here are possible warning signs that you don’t need to install a costly new pool motor.

Maintenance and repair of swimming pool pump motors
Difficulty with the filtration system, such as sluggish pump starts or a loss of power
Visual indicators such as burn marks, leaks, and rust
Sounds like squealing, scratching, or grinding could indicate trouble

Even if you do regular preventive maintenance on your pool, all moving parts will eventually wear out and need to be replaced.

Need swimming pool pump motors? Call Fox Pools!

Putting off maintaining swimming pool pump motors can lead to costly repairs, serious problems, and an unsightly pool. It’s often simple and fast to avoid these issues. Know your pool and how often it requires maintenance. The next step is to establish a pool service schedule.

Our priority is to maintain low operating costs without sacrificing security or efficiency. In order to prevent the escalation of the problem, our pool repair team can provide further diagnosis and potential solutions. Contact Fox Pools now that you know more about swimming pool pump motors.