Maintaining Your Pool Pump

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Having a pool in your backyard is definitely a plus, but only if the water is clean and clear. At ASP Coastal Virginia, we know how quickly pool water can turn murky, but with proper pool pump maintenance, that can be prevented. To help you out, we’ve put together a few ideas as a guide to maintaining your pool’s pump. Just follow these easy tips and we promise your pool pump will continue to work as it should, and keep your pool safe and clean.

Regular Cleanings = Safe Swimming

Regular pool cleanings are a necessity if you want to be able to enjoy your pool for years to come. As part of your pool cleanings, make sure to regularly empty the skimmer basket, vacuum the pool, and adjust chemicals as necessary.

Keep in mind that the water in your pool can turn cloudy (and unsafe) without proper cleanings done on a regular basis. As long as you can clearly see a coin or other small object resting at the bottom of your pool, you know you’re doing something right!

How Often Should Cleanings Be Done?

How often you perform pool cleanings can be dependent on your pool’s location. While we typically suggest a regular weekly cleaning for optimal water quality, a pool located in a wooded area may need attention daily. For example, when leaves and/or other debris fall into a pool, they should be removed immediately.

Keep an Eye on the Filter

As part of your regular cleanings, make sure to check the pool pump filter, too. Staying on top of cleaning out your filter will prevent clogging as well as burn out. While there are several types of pump filters, all are fairly easy to clean. Just follow the simple directions listed in your owner’s manual or consult with a professional if you aren’t sure what kind of filter you have or how to clean it.

Signs That Something Has Gone Awry

We foresee years of enjoyment when it comes to your pool, but occasionally things do happen. If something doesn’t seem quite right, check for the following:

  • Loss of Suction
  • Water is Leaking Around Pump
  • Pump Motor Keeps Shutting Off
  • Noisy Pump
  • Sucking Air

If you notice any of the above taking place, it might be an indication your pool pump isn’t working right. Call a pool professional so they can assess whether your pump needs some repairs or needs to be replaced altogether.

If you would like to learn more about pool maintenance and cleaning, call ASP today at (480) 834-7665 or for more information.

4 Pool Deck Designs That Are Making A Splash

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With just weeks left in the summer, it’s time to start thinking of ways you can improve your pool and have it in tip-top shape for next season. Whether you’re interested in geometric shapes, shallow sunning shelves, water features,glass tiles, aggregate material liners, or creative lighting, creating a unique, one-of-a-kind pool is now easier than ever. With endless options in modern pool deck designs, you can give your entire space a fresh look that will have you hungry for pool-time year round.

Consider these four popular deck designs when brainstorming ways to give your pool area a personal touch.

  1. Material Mix Up

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    2. One of the hottest looks in the pool industry is mixing and matching building materials. Instead of choosing an all-concrete deck, try to use more than just one material to blend your deck and your patio. Great combinations include a brick pool trim with redwood decking, rich composite decking with a smooth concrete border, gravel paths with a vintage lantern border, and much more. Talk to a pool builder or renovation expert to brainstorm ideas and discuss possible options.

  2. Combine Elements

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    By integrating your pool area with a well-designed patio, you can create a seamless, flowing space that’s ideal for relaxing and entertaining. Again, using creative combinations of elements gives your space a personal, unique touch that’s both inviting and soothing. Consider adding an attached firepit with built-in seating and a dining area to make your space family-friendly and ready for any activity. Install misters and fans over pool-side loungers to keep guests cool in the hot summer sun. Surround your pool deck with shrubberies, trees, and other natural elements to add privacy and bring nature directly to your poolside.

  3. Zone Out

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    If you’re not fond of the idea of creating one fluid entertainment space, create zones to separate spaces. Another popular design idea, zoning out your deck lets you create unique, individual areas that each serve a unique purpose. Consider establishing spaces like a grilling deck, a lounging area, a dining area, a sunbathing deck, etc., and use similar colors, fabrics, plants, and design features to tie your backyard look together.

  4. Pick Pavers

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    Opting for pavers instead of traditional wooden decking gives your pool a natural, sophisticated look that is both durable and affordable. Pavers, along with other chiseled surfaces and various shapes, give hardscaped areas a textured, vintage feel that’s easy to decorate. They also give you the ability to integrate surrounding decking, patios, landscaping and much more.

For more information on ways to spruce up your pool deck or for professional help designing and building your dream pool, contact ASP Coastal Virginia today.

 

6 Must Have Pool Toys for This Summer

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There is nothing more fun in the summer months than going out your back door and jumping into your own pool. No fighting the crowds, no wondering how clean the water is, just hours of fun in your own private oasis. While a pool alone can offer endless summer fun, when you want to shake things up and add some variety into the mix, here are 6 fun and unique pool toys that will do just that.

1. The Inflatable Water Shooting Float

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County fairs offer some of the most fun memories of summer with their corn dogs, cotton candy, rides, and especially the carnival games. Imagine if you could enjoy these carnival games all summer long. The Inflatable Water Shooting Float offers just that, allowing you to experience the fun and nostalgia of a traditional carnival game within your own backyard, and while playing in the pool. Win win.

2. Giant Floating Swan

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Are you looking for a fun way to lounge around in the pool all day, or a means to challenge your friends to a jousting match? The Giant Floating Swan has become a bit of a cult classic among pool owners, offering hours of fun and entertainment for children and adults alike. If a Giant Floating Swan isn’t your thing, there are even Giant Floating Flamingos available.

3. Giant Food Floats

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Floating pool toys have come a long way from the days of simple pool rings and pool noodles. Nowadays, these fun floating toys are made to resemble a variety of different foods, from donuts, to Tootsie Rolls, and even a slice of pizza. This oversized floating food will no doubt become a talking point of summer barbecues.

4. Motorized Bumper Car Boats

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One of the highlights of going to a fun center is riding the bumper boats. With these Motorized Bumper Car Boats, you no longer have to wait to visit the fun center to enjoy a spin around the water. Once word gets out, people in your neighborhood will be flocking to your house to play with your newest pool acquisition.

5. Underwater Skateboard

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Anyone who enjoys skateboarding at the skatepark will love the Underwater Skateboard. This board allows you to skate underwater, enjoying your pool in a way you never thought possible while improving your balance and working your core at the same time.

6. See-Saw Rocker Inflatable Pool Toy

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See-saws are one playground toy that will never go out of style. With the See-Saw Rocker Inflatable Pool Toy, you are able to add to the fun of the original toy with the introduction of water. Now, getting flipped off of the see-saw might become your favorite part as you land in your refreshing pool rather than the dirt of a playground.

Contact Us Today

Whether you already have a pool or are finally ready to take the plunge and have one installed in your yard, contact us today to find out how we can help you turn your dream of a backyard oasis into a reality!

Vinyl, Concrete, or Above-Ground Pools: Which Is Best?

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Are you tired of scouring the internet for unbiased information on the advantages and disadvantages of different pool types? We hear you. That’s why we’ve developed this cut-and-dry list that highlights both the pros and cons of vinyl pools, concrete pools, and above-ground pools, so you can make an informed decision on which pool best fits your wants and needs.

Pros of Vinyl Pools

  • Low initial costs: Pools with vinyl liners are constructed in a very cost-effective manner. After properly excavating the pool site, contractors build a wood, plastic or metal frame for the wall panels, pour a solid sand base, and install the vinyl liner. This process offers the lowest-cost of any inground pool.
  • Several shapes and sizes: Because of the construction process, vinyl pools can be as long, wide, and deep as your budget will allow.
  • Minimal algae growth: Vinyl material is smooth and nonporous which makes cleaning easy and keeps algae growth to a minimum.

Cons of Vinyl Pools

  • Higher overall cost: Though initial costs are minimal, the average vinyl liner only lasts between eight and 12 years and costs several thousand dollars to replace.
  • Wear and tear: Common pool chemicals cause the color of the vinyl liner to fade and wrinkles tend to appear from top to bottom over time.
  • Low-action: Pets, tree limbs, sharp objects, and substantial roughhousing can cause the thin liner to tear.

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Pros of Concrete Pools

  • Unlimited sizes and shapes: Similar to vinyl pools, concrete pools can be built in any shape or size and with as much depth as budget allows.
  • Design options galore: Concrete pools allow for the installation of plaster, paint, tiles, features, amenities, designs, etc.
  • Easy integration: Concrete pools are typically used in natural settings to highlight landscaping or showcasing outdoor features

Cons of Concrete Pools

  • High lifetime costs: Concrete pools, though moderate to install, are very expensive to re-finish as the resurfacing and retiling supplies and work-hours can cost thousands.
  • High maintenance: Concrete is incredibly porous which means a substantial amount of chemicals, filtration, and overall maintenance is required to prevent algae and other damages.
  • Long installation time: It takes anywhere from two to four months to completely install a concrete pool.

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Pros of Above-Ground Pools

  • Portable and temporary: Above-ground pools can be moved and installed virtually anywhere.
  • Easy maintenance: Above-ground pools don’t require regular cleaning, bleaching, and filtering because the water is always moving.
  • Size options: Available in different sizes, shapes and depths, above-ground pools can be added to any space.

Cons of Above-Ground Pools

  • Landscape damage: The weight from the water will spoil a large portion of grass.
  • Fragile material: The thin lining of above-ground pools is fairly fragile. If punctured, the pool could cause flood damages that ruin landscape, grass, and even your home.
  • Fencing or Barricades: Many above-ground pool kits don’t come with the fencing or barricading needed to keep them upright. Investing in these features is an additional, often hefty, expense.

Regardless of what type of pool you decide is best for you, properly maintaining your pool is key if you wish to enjoy it for years to come. By partnering with the maintenance pros at ASP, you can rest assured your pool is in the best hands. With years of experience and knowledgeable service, ASP is your trusted friend in the pool maintenance industry. Call us today!