Pools

How And When To Open Your Above Ground Pool

With spring fast approaching, you’re probably already excited about getting your above-ground pool ready for use. But as any seasoned pool owner can tell you, opening an above-ground pool is a bit more complicated than just slipping the cover off. Even when covered, the stagnant water in your pool can cause serious health concerns, while freezing winter temperatures may have damaged your pool’s components and equipment.

Opening and preparing an above-ground pool for use can be an exhausting process, and it is best to let professionals handle it. But it is possible to do it on your own. Just follow these steps, and your pool is ready for swimming in no time.

1. Remove any leaves or debris that have settled on the pool cover. If there’s standing water remaining, use a cover pump to drain it out. Once it’s free of debris and water, remove the cover.

2. Spread the pool cover on a wide, flat area and clean it with cover cleaner, water, and a scrub brush. If a commercial cover cleaner is unavailable, you can use car shampoo as a substitute. Let the cover dry out and store it in a sealed container.

Note: Check the pool cover for tears and other signs of damage. Be sure to have damaged covers repaired or replaced as soon as you can.

3. Remove all plugs from all the openings as well as filter hoses, return-jets, skimmer basket, and ice compensator if present.

4. Reinstall the plugs and hoses into the pump and the skimmer basket and the return-jet into the return line.

5. Add water to the pool until it reaches proper levels. Use a hose filter to remove any impurities and make sure the water level reaches the halfway mark of the skimmer’s opening.

6. Install ladders, handrails, and other deck gear into the pool. Check each component for signs of damage or corrosion and replace it if necessary.

7. Plug in and switch on the water pump. For pumps with sand filters, make sure the valve is turned to the backwash position to prevent old water left inside the filter to drain out into the pool. Be sure to check for leaks while the pump is running.

8. Brush the walls, floor, corners, and other nooks and crannies of the pool. Use a leaf net or rake to skim off any floating leaves, bugs, and other debris from the water’s surface.

9. Let the water to circulate for 8 to 12 hours.

10. Test the water to make sure it has the right balance of chemicals. You can use readily available liquid test kits to check the water chemistry or take a sample to your trusted pool dealer and have them test it for you.

11. Shock your pool with the recommended amount of chlorine and other chemicals. Do your pool shock at night or dusk to prevent the chemicals from burning off too quickly.

12. Let the pump run for another 24 hours and retest again. If the results come out clean, then the pool is ready for use.

If you find the process complicated or you’re unsure you’ll be able to do it properly, don’t be afraid to ask your pool dealer for assistance. Showrooms like Smith Pools offer maintenance services that can test, clean, and prepare your above-ground pool at a reasonable price.

6 Pool Products That We Recommend

Whether you’re a brand new pool owner or experienced enough to do a pool shock blindfolded, you need the right type of tools to keep your pool clean and safe to swim in. Today you can find a wide variety of pool equipment and accessories that promise to make swimming in and maintaining your pool an easier experience.

The following are the best products we recommend to have for your pool:

Robotic cleaners

Tired of cleaning your pool by hand? A robotic cleaner may make it easier. Although they have had a mixed reputation in the past, advances in technology have made robotic cleaners nearly as effective or even better than conventional side pressure cleaners. And since they are entirely autonomous, you don’t have to be around for the cleaner to work. You can switch it on in the morning, go to work, and come home and swim in a newly cleaned pool with no effort on your part.

Sand filters

Pool filters come in all shapes and sizes, but the most reliable type, in our opinion, is still the humble sand filter. A mainstay in swimming pools for decades, sand filters effectively remove both small and large particles in the water. They are the most efficient way of removing algae and microscopic impurities from the water without resorting to harmful chemicals. Also, filter sand is cheap and easy to replace compared to other types of filtration media.

Pool mineral systems

If you’re wary about using chlorine in your pool, pool mineral systems are a good alternative. Mineral systems use a mix of minerals to help sanitize the pool while keeping chlorine levels down. Such systems cut down on maintenance time and chlorine costs and eliminate chlorine-related problems like faded liners and bleached bathing suits. Also, mineral systems have the added benefit of keeping the water softer.

Saltwater systems

If you want to do away with using chlorine tablets for your pool, upgrading to a saltwater system is the way to go. As its name suggests, saltwater systems replace pool chlorine with a version of chlorine that’s derived from salt. It’s just as effective at sanitizing the pool but without the adverse effects of chlorine. And contrary to common misconceptions, the salt is diluted enough that the water keeps a neutral taste.

Stain preventers

Stain preventers are additives that help prevent stains from forming on the pool’s walls and floor. Imbalances in your water’s pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness often cause these stains. Regular cleanup usually fixes minor staining, but if it is persistent or if the stains are too severe, adding a preventer with the weekly chemical mix should restore the chemical balance and effectively dissolve any stains.

Phosphate removers

Phosphates are organic wastes that naturally build up in a pool over time. This waste provides food for algae, which, if left unchecked, will let spread and eventually take over the pool. Your local Smith Pool dealer can test your pool for excessive phosphate content and recommend phosphate remover to clear up phosphates and green water caused by algae.

The Smith Pools Above Ground Pool Advantage

For more than 40 years, we at Smith Pools and Spas have been a trusted name in above-ground pools in the Mid South. No matter your budget, our team of professional employees will make you a high-quality pool that’s enjoyable for the whole family.

Here are just some of the benefits you’ll get should you decide to have your above-ground pool installed by Smith Pools:

Wide variety of pool styles to choose from

We offer a large selection of above-ground pool designs that vary according to color, material, and frame size. You can select from weather-resistant steel frame pools, resin frame pools for saltwater, and hybrid pools that combine the benefits of both metal and resin frames.

To help you make an informed decision, we also have 17 filled pools of various sizes and styles on display at both of our locations. We also have low-pressure, non-commissioned sales staff on hand in our stores to help you while you shop. And whatever type of pool you choose we can guarantee you will get the best price thanks to our low overhead rates.

Soft and durable vermiculite layer

All Smith Pool installation packages include special high-quality vermiculite layered underneath the pool liner. Unlike mason sand commonly used in above ground pools, vermiculite is softer, more resilient, and will not wear holes in the liner over time. It is also much cheaper and does not require a dump truck to deliver to your house.

Durable, seamless pool liners

The pool liner is one of the most visible parts of an above-ground pool, so it’s only right that it should be of the best quality. We only use Kafco liners, which are made of bleach-resistant material and coated with UV inhibitors to prevent fading and sun damage. We also treat them to resist algae growth and help extend the life of the liner. And unlike conventional pool liners with visible seam lines on the pool floor, Kafco liners have a special “ultra seam” design that makes the floor seams virtually invisible without sacrificing the liner’s integrity.

All-in-one installation

Smith Pools will handle all of the steps of the installation process from start to finish. We only use our employees, not subcontractors, to install the pools, ensuring each pool we install is of high quality.

We divide the pool installation process into two main parts: One crew digs the site, while another team assembles the pool. The dig crew will level the pool site to within half an inch around the perimeter of the pool and recess blocks into the ground to ensure the pool will remain level and stable. We also use a 1,000-gallon tank to pump water into the pool once we install the liner. So our build crew can detect and fix any wrinkles on the floor of the pool before the liner completely sets.

Once our workers install your pool, our store staff will be on hand to give you helpful advice on pool maintenance as well as recommend appropriate products and services to make your above-ground pool last for years.

Smith Pool & Spa Store Hours Update

For the past 40 years, Smith Pools and Spas has helped thousands of Mid Southerners turn their backyards into places for family leisure and entertainment. Smith Pools and Spas continues this tradition today by building a company of loyal and professional employees who will make pool, spa, or hot tub fun for the entire family.

We’ve recently changed our two showroom location hours.

Since 1977, Smith Pools and Spas has been a trusted name in the Mid South.  We are happy to help you with all of your above ground pool and hot tub needs!  Contact us today!

The above ground pool has been installed-WHAT NOW?

For most new pool owners, seeing the pool being installed is a very exciting time.  However, it can often leave the new owners asking “what now?”  The installers have left. There is a little water in the pool and a pile of dirt in the yard. What should you do now? Is there anything you should know about filling your pool?

Here are a few things you should know!

1. Do not fill the pool above 6” deep if the ground around the pool is damp or soft.

2. Use only a standard water hose to fill the pool.

3. Only fill the pool during daytime sunny hours and when the outside temperature is above 70 degrees. This will help the liner properly stretch into place.

4. Fill pool to a little past halfway into the skimmer (see glossary of terms).

5. Sometimes the sides of the pool will dent in as the pool fills. This is normal. The dents will pop out as the pool fills with water. This is especially true when filling a pool in cool temperatures.

6. Do not get into the pool for 48 hours after the pool is filled. This lets the bottom of the pool settle and helps reduce footprints although some footprints on the bottom are unavoidable. As the pool is used, the pool bottom will be packed down more evenly.

What do I do with the excess dirt?

1. DO NOT PUT DIRT BACK AROUND POOL UNTIL POOL HAS BEEN WELL USED. IF YOU ARE BUILDING A DECK AROUND THE POOL, DO NOT PUT DIRT BACK AROUND THE POOL WHERE THE DECK WILL BE. EXCESS DIRT AROUND THE POOL WILL CAUSE THE POOL TO CAVE IN IF THE POOL IS NOT KEPT FULL OF WATER.

2. Neighbors are often looking for extra dirt to use in their yard.

3. Hire a company to haul the dirt off.

4. Many people use the dirt to fill in low spots in their yard or simply spread the dirt and plant grass.

What do I do with the liner hanging outside the pool?

1. You can trim the excess liner on the outside of your pool after the pool has been used for a month or so. Use scissors or a razor blade to carefully cut the liner being sure not to scratch the wall of the pool.

2. If you do wish to trim the excess liner, it will be very hard to fix any unforeseen problems underneath the liner. Thus, you should wait until the pool has been well used before trimming the liner.

3. It is okay if you do not want to cut the liner. You may choose to simply fold up the liner and hang it underneath the ledge of the pool.

What about the vermiculite pool cushion underneath the liner?

1. The vermiculite pool cushion is just like it sounds. It is a cushion underneath the liner formed from a granular substance that gels together as one layer.

2. When people first start using the pool, footprints and small wrinkles will develop in the bottom. These wrinkles and footprints will diminish over time as the pool is used and the vermiculite pool cushion is packed down. Some wrinkles may develop where swimmers jump into the pool and hit the bottom with their heels and where bathers twist their feet on the liner.

3. Over time and the more the pool is used, the bottom will become more firm.

4. The vermiculite pool cushion has several strong benefits. First, it is non-abrasive, so it will not wear holes in the liner over years of use like sand sometimes does. Also, it does not get hard like sand. Thus, it stays comfortable to walk on.

5. Occasionally, small dirt clods may appear in the bottom of the pool underneath the liner. These dirt clods usually will not hurt anything and can easily be pushed down using a rubber mallet.

Call Smith Pool if you have any questions or concerns.

What about the electricity for the pump?

1. The pool pump runs on an 110V outlet and pulls around 15 amps. Check your instruction manual for specific electrical instructions for your pump.

2. The safest way to operate your pump is to have a licensed electrician run conduit underground with a GFCI weatherproof receptacle located beside the pump. This is what most codes require. For convenience, have the electrician install an outdoor on/off switch for the outlet.

3. Running the pump on an extension cord is not safe, especially if you have small children or pets that may want to play with the cord or outlet.

4. If you use an extension cord, you could cause irreversible damage to pump motor. This is not covered under the motor warranty.

How do I start my filter system?

See manufacturer’s papers provided with the filter system for complete information. Call Smith Pool with any questions or concerns. The instruction manuals are very clear and illustrative. It will be worth your time to read these manuals.

Benefits of Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools are an excellent option for homeowners who want a swimming pool but don’t want to incur the costs associated with in-ground swimming pools. There are numerous other benefits of above-ground pools, and reasons why smart homeowners go for them when summer is fast approaching.

Let’s explore some of the major benefits of these versatile pools:

Less Expensive

Affordability is the primary reason why budget-conscious homeowners invest in above-ground pools. These pools are far less expensive than their in-ground counterparts. If you’re not ready for the long-term commitment of an in-ground pool, or you don’t expect to live in your current home for long, an above-ground pool is a good choice.

These pools are temporary structures, and you might not need to acquire a permit to install them. Additionally, most above-ground pools are portable. You can easily transfer them to a new location or your new home if you move.

Easy Installation

You can get an above-ground pool installed and ready for use in as little as one day. Conversely, in-ground pools are much more complicated to install. During the construction of an in-ground swimming pool, your family will have to wait for an extended period until your pool is ready for use. It can also be a much more expensive task to accomplish.

Versatility

An above-ground pool can be custom designed in a vast variety of shapes to suit your yard. It can be installed in the corner of a garden or on a deck. That makes it a perfect option for both functional and aesthetic purposes. Your design options are quite limited if you opt for an in-ground pool.

Space Efficiency

The fact that it can be custom designed means that an above-ground pool can be made for any size yard. You can customize your pool for a small outdoor deck area or an expansive garden where a considerably larger structure would be needed. A reputable pool service company, like Smith Pools, would conduct a professional assessment of your area and recommend the best style for an above-ground pool.

Safety

While no swimming pool is 100% safe, above-ground pools usually are harder to access than their in-ground counterparts. The risk of something falling into an in-ground pool is much higher, thanks to the pool’s proximity to the ground. However, accessing an above-ground pool requires a ladder, which can be quite challenging to navigate. If used in the right manner, above-ground pools usually are a more secure option.

Easy Maintenance

Above-ground pools are generally easier to maintain because they sit above the ground. In-ground pools are more prone to debris from the surrounding environment. When maintaining your lawn, for example, grass trimmings can easily find their way into your in-ground pool. With an above ground pool, you don’t have to worry about debris or other objects finding their way into your pool.

These are some of the benefits of above-ground pools. If you are ready to invest in an above-ground pool, you should consult reputable professionals like Smith Pools. They offer the best quality products and services to suit your needs.

Why Choose Us for Your Commercial Pool Service Needs

For over 40 years, Smith Pool and Spas have focused on providing the best services to residential and commercial clients. We offer full services for our clients, from installation to maintenance and emergencies. Our team of professionals is ready to tend to your needs with a short turnaround time.

With our business expanded to cater to commercial pool owners, our team offers a variety of new services that enable the maintenance of any commercial pool. Our team of certified pool operators takes care of everything, from operational and maintenance procedures.

Commercial Pool and Hot Tub Cleaning

Maintaining your commercial pool and hot tub can become a hassle without properly trained personnel. We adhere to local regulations. We can provide these services to fully train your personnel with periodic check-ups to ensure your commercial pool and hot tub follows all norms.

Commercial Pool and Hot Tub Equipment Installation

You can always assign in-house staff to deal with pool and hot tub equipment installation and maintenance. But why place this burden on them if you don’t need to?

Our in-house team of trained professionals is fit for the job. This leads to fewer errors, which could, in turn, prevent you and your guests from using the pool. And in the upcoming hot summer days, this is the last thing you want for your business.

Commercial Pool and Hot Tub Maintenance

Proper hot tub, spa, and pool maintenance are mandatory to keep your business functional. “Smith Pool and Spas” provides a variety of maintenance programs, customized to any requirement.

• Filter Maintenance – We keep your pool and hot tub free from debris with constant maintenance of the sand filtration system.
• Heater Maintenance – One thing you want to stay on top of is maintaining your hot tub and pool water temperature.
• Pool Equipment Maintenance – Avoid malfunctions and keeps your pool’s filtration system working smoothly with constant checks and updates.

Even with the best of care, if things can go wrong, they will go wrong. Minimize your pool and hot tub’s downtime by accessing prompt services with a quick turnaround time. Maintain a commercial pool and hot tub can be challenging. But it can also become one of the most self-driven processes of your business. Professional services can cater specially to you and your clients.

Why You Should Consider A Salt Water Above-Ground Pool

You’ve set your mind. You’re getting a pool, and the entire family rejoices. All the summer heat will become bearable, and you’ll create great memories.

And yet, you still have not decided what type of pool you want. Opinions are split. In-ground, above-ground, chlorine, salt water? They all come with amazing benefits and comparable downsides. None is perfect, and none is so flawed you should cross it off your list.

Choosing a salt-water above-ground pool could be the best decision. Below, you can find a few of its advantages:

Cost

You’ve seen this aspect being discussed before. Salt water pools tend to be more expensive than chlorine pools. But keep in mind that we are talking about the initial investment only. Over time, using salt as the main chemical responsible for your pool’s filtration system is much more cost-effective.

We know that your filtering system will need to be replaced sooner than a chlorine one would. But, on average, the purchase and maintenance costs over ten years is reduced by up to 40% for a salt water above-ground pool compared to a chlorine pool.

Health

Even though listed as the second factor taken into consideration by many, health concerns should be your top priority when choosing between a chlorine pool and a salt-water pool.

Both filtration systems work by pumping chlorine into the water. However, if the chlorine system needs you to fill the tank and release higher amounts of the chemical into the water at once, the salt water system transforms salt in chlorine through electrolysis at a constant rate. This means you don’t need to spike the chlorine level in your water for it to be safe.

This aspect is crucial for people with sensitive skin. It is also important for those with breathing issues (bronchitis, allergies, and asthma). Salt-water pools maintain a constant lower level of chlorine, which does the job perfectly while protecting your health.

Salt Water Pools Don’t Cause Rust

There is a common myth out there that salt water causes rust more than chlorinated water. The answer is yes: if we’re talking about the ocean or sea water. But the levels of salt in a pool are as much as ten times lower than those in the ocean.

If you keep splashing around and don’t take care of the metal parts of your pool, they will rust the same whether you have chlorine or salt water. Maintenance is mandatory, no matter which type of pool you choose.

Maintenance

Maintaining a pool requires a bit of effort, regardless of your choice of water type, shape, or size. With salt water above-ground pools, however, you can reduce your maintenance to a minimum.

The filtration system needs no manual input, except to make sure there is enough salt in the tank. With chlorine pools, you usually need to add the chlorine manually and spike the levels occasionally, depending on the pool’s exposure to debris.

Warmer weather can also influence the accelerated development of bacteria and algae. This is easier to keep under control when you have a salt-water above-ground pool. It will not require higher quantities of chlorine.

All in all, the choice is yours. Both systems have their pros and cons. You are the one who decides what is best for your needs and family. Just take your time, compare them all, and enjoy your pool!

Why is Pool Care Important?

Swimming pools are what everyone wants in their back yards as summer approaches. When the weather turns hot and humid, our love affair with swimming pool becomes even stronger.But to keep that love alive, you have to take good care of your pool.

To keep your pool functioning for years to come, regular maintenance is necessary. Failing to maintain it for even a short period could cause costly repairs and service calls.The simple answer?Take good care of your pool!

2 Reasons Pool Care is Important

• It helps your pool last for many years; without proper care, a pool can fall into disrepair after only a few years.
• To keep the pool safe and healthy, chemicals in the right amounts are needed, so that the pool is safe and clean for human use. Any floating objects should also be removed so that they do not cause harm to the pool, the filter, or its users.

There are several things that should be done regularly to maintain your pool; here are steps to follow to keep your pool happy.

How to Maintain Your Pool

Skim for Debris

This is done with a net attached to a long handle. Drag the net slowly across the surface of the water so that you collect any unwanted particles floating there. This can help keep the water clear and clean, and it is easy enough that you can do it frequently–especially when the pool is being used often and by many people.

Vacuum

There are aquatic vacuums that can clean the bottom of your pool. They sweep the floor and take out objects lying at the bottom. Vacuuming, combined with skimming, ensures the entire pool is free of foreign particles.

Adjust Chemicals

The pool contains specially formulated chemicals, to keep the water carefully balanced. You have to ensure they are always in the correct ranges and amounts; test on a daily basis and adjust them at least once every week. The most important levels are pH and chlorine. These two are the indicators of whether your pool is safe or not.

Clean the Filter

Clean the filter in your pool daily. Remove any objects trapped in it, so that it can filter better, and water can pass through properly. This will also help prolong the life of your pool.

These are the basics of what is involved in taking care of a pool. And while each pool is different and unique, it is important that you find out about the tips to care for your specific pool and the latest technologies that are best for maintenance.

Contact us to talk to a professional pool attendant and learn how we can care for your pool.

Things You Should Know about Converting Your Pool to Salt Water

A little bit of the ocean in your backyard—impossible? Not anymore.

Salt water swimming pools offer various health benefits, including support for persons with allergies and skin disorders; this is one reason why many homeowners are opting for saltwater pool systems. They’re becoming increasingly more popular than traditional chlorine pools.

These saltwater counterparts are also easier to maintain than traditional chlorine pools. Here are some advantages of saltwater pools:

4 Advantages of Saltwater Pools

• Low Chlorine Content

Saltwater pools are lower in chlorine levels than traditional pools. The filter is responsible for adding the minimal amounts of chlorine the pool requires to look attractive and remain clean. This eliminated the need to add more chlorine to the pool.

• Gentle on the Skin

Saltwater pools are gentler on the skin due to their low levels of chlorine. They’re ideal for people with allergies and sensitive skin. Saltwater also dehydrates toxins, infectious cells, and pollutants present in your skin’s pores, which means it can be therapeutic against eczema, skin infections, psoriasis, and acne. The saltwater can also relieve your skin of itching, pain, insect bites, scalp irritation, and rashes.

• Low Salt Content

The salt content in saltwater pools is less than the amount of salt in your tears.

• Low Maintenance

Unlike traditional swimming pools, saltwater pools are easy to maintain. Regulating chemical content in the pool water is also easier.

Advantages of the Recommended Saltwater Pool System: PureChlor Salt Chlorine Generators

PureChlor Salt Chlorine Generators are the most popular saltwater swimming pool systems on the market. They have the following advantages:

• Safe for all ages, including toddlers and the elderly.
• Makes swimming pool water clean, soothing, and healthy for an exceptional swimming experience for the entire family.
• Safe for use in all kinds of weather; protects against power fluctuations.
• Uses modern digital circuitry to monitor water temperature and salt content 24/7, and adjusts them as necessary.
• Has a user-friendly interface and controls for ease of use; supports different chlorine levels with LED to indicate the current level.
• Compatible with most swimming pools.
• The Super Chlor feature ensures optimal output for 24 hours when turned on, after which it returns to the original setting.
• The LED configuration allows for problem identification and rectification either online or on-site.

When the temperature or chlorine level in most regular pool systems move beyond the extreme ranges, the water in the pool can become cloudy or turn green. But that’s not the case with saltwater pool systems, they are built with advanced technology, to operate within a wide range of salt and temperature levels.

What’s more, the saltwater pool systems come with a warranty of over 5 years for after-installation service.

Contact us today to help clean your pool if it has become cloudy or turned green and thus unsuitable for swimming.