REPOST: Is there such a thing as an eco-swimming pool?

Eco-friendly swimming pools are not just a trend anymore. They’ve become a necessity to fight water scarcity and secure a more sustainable future. The Guardian lists down ways people can make their pools greener and better for the environment.

Image Source: theguardian.com

Is there such a thing as an environmentally friendly swimming pool?

I learnt to swim as a young girl in late 1980s London, where the closest you could get to eco-friendly swimming was a big sign at the local leisure centre reading “OOL: notice there is no P in this pool, please keep it that way.”

At the time, I took for granted school swimming lessons, Sunday mornings at Acton swimming baths, and summers spent in ramshackle houses in the French countryside where ‘la piscine’ took centre stage.

Twenty-five years on, our relationship with water is changing. The municipal pools and piscines françaises are still there - joined now by their increasingly affluent holiday resort cousins - but so are stories of widespread drought in California, water-related food insecurity in Djibouti, dams being used as weapons of war in the Middle East, and a UN prediction that by 2030 almost 50% of the global population could be facing water scarcity.

In this light, it’s hard to see swimming pools as anything besides luxury indulgences that intensify the difference between the haves and have nots. So what are the options for sustainable swimming pools, and are they anything more than bluewash?

Natural pools

Natural pools such as those designed by Bristol-based company Clear Water Revival is a chemical-free, relatively low-tech and affordable way to create an eco-friendly outdoor pool. To build the structure, materials such as gravel and clay are used in place of concrete and fibreglass, and aquatic plants replace chlorine and expensive mechanical filtering systems with natural purification that enriches the pool with oxygen, supports beneficial bacteria, and provides a natural habitat for aquatic life.

Spanish architectural firm Urbanarbolismo specialises in the integration of nature into architecture, designing green roofs and vertical gardens as well as natural pools. They incorporate edible plants such as cress, celery and mint into the design of their ‘piscinas naturales’, as well as small fish and native shrimp to eat mosquito larvae and other unwanted insects.

Moss Bros

Like natural pools, moss-filtered pools reduce the need for chemicals such as chlorine and algaecide since they inhibit the growth of microorganisms. This also reduces water consumption as there is less frequent need to ‘backwash’ the pool to clean it, a process that sends water to waste.

The University of Maryland uses moss to filter two on-campus pools, calculating that this system reduces chemical use by 40% and water consumption by 75%, while saving the university $6,663 (£4,064) per year after moss costs.

Turning up the heat

When the time came for Stanhope Open Air Swimming Pool in County Durham to replace its four boilers recently, the pool’s chairman sought the help of renewable energy experts Opus Green to help it come up with a sustainable energy solution. The result is a plan to install two new energy efficient condensing boilers and 38 solar PV panels which are expected to reduce the council’s contribution to the pool’s annual energy costs by approximately 20%.

Although the US has been slow to catch on to the use of solar heating in homes and businesses since low natural gas prices have traditionally undercut the costs of solar water heating, there’s nothing new about using solar heating in swimming pools, in America and beyond.

In the Netherlands, Raalte’s local swimming pool is heated by warmth from wastewater. Every hour, 40,000 litres of purified wastewater is transported from the wastewater treatment plant to the pool, where heat exchangers extract heat from the wastewater, making it possible to heat the swimming pool water to 30C. This new system saves the pool an average of €57,000 on gas and reduces its carbon dioxide emissions by 137,000kg per year.

Skimming the surface

For those just dipping their toes into the world of sustainable swimming pools, there are a whole range of options to get started with. Covering a pool when its not in use can significantly reduce evaporation and helps to retain heat. Likewise using a windbreak has been demonstrated to make a notable difference to both energy retention and reduced evaporation.

Where pool maintenance is concerned, Poolcare Leisure has calculated that fixing small leaks matter: for each drop of water lost per second, 8,000 litres of water are lost per year. Likewise, cleaning a pool regularly prevents the build up of algae that, in a non-natural pool, may otherwise lead to the depolyment of additional chemicals.

Pooling resources

And finally to sharing. While owning a private pool may be a status symbol, there’s a growing sharing movement that sees neighbours lend everything from cars to tools to dogs which could easily embrace the shared swimming pool too.

One woman doing just that is Jessie Hayes from Queensland. She said: “I love my pool, but I’m also aware that water is a precious resource. My husband and I decided to offer swims in our pool to our neighbours through Streetbank. So far we’ve had four families take us up on the offer - in the main, we just leave them to it. It’s great hearing the squeals as the kids dive in.”

Blue World Pools is a one-stop shop for affordable and top-of-the-line swimming pools and maintenance services. Click here to learn how you can transform your backyard into your own eco-friendly resort at a price you can afford.

REPOST: Expert Tips for Throwing a Pool Party

Bored of floating around your swimming pool to cool off? Why don’t you throw a party with your family and friends instead? Here are expert tips to get you started:

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With summer drawing to a close you might want to consider getting that last dose of hosting in, which conveniently doubles as a practice round before pool party season sneaks up on you in St Barts and Cabo. We caught up with party planner Amy Abbott to get some expert advice on how to make your next poolside gathering go with a splash, not a whimper. You’ll be surprised to find that the super chic Ralph Lauren ad campaign you envisioned can actually happen in real life–and you barely have to break a sweat (or hire models) to be the host with the most.

On paper, the pool party is a concept that promises an effortlessly chic event. Especially if you have a poster-worthy pool. When you picture it, an image of guests clad in classic swimwear, cocktails in hand appears. The sky is hazy, the music is light but essential, the food is present but not center stage. There might even be someone in the pool. But a few small details must be considered in order to promise the decent weather forecast and droves of party-goers get the warm welcome they deserve.
Clear Expectations

The plan for the day should be as clear to your guests as your pool water (side note: vacuum the pool before the party). Your guests will appreciate this, it’s hard to get excited for an event when you’re overwhelmed with uncertainty;”Should I bring a change of clothes? Do I need to eat before coming? Are the kids invited?” Do yourself, and everyone else, a favor by answering these questions before the party begins. For example, if you plan to carry the event into the evening, recommend a change of clothes–nothing kills a vibe more than a wet bathing suit under a sundress. If it’s an all-ages event a simple “Water wings will be provided for the little swimmers!” will get the message across. If there’s a set time guests are to arrive, state it clearly.
Amy’s Pro Tip: A formal invitation isn’t necessary for a casual pool party. An e-mail outlying all of the basics will do.
Safety First

We know. Safety is always the boring part. But it’s the most important factor to ensure your party goes off without a hitch. It’s the small things that make a big difference: have a basket of sunscreen available; if there are children coming, have water wings on hand; extra sun hats are good too. Even if your favorite hosting outfit includes heels, veer away: a slippery poolside deck doesn’t mesh well with platforms. On that note, pick up a few pairs of flip flops for guests and encourage them to get comfortable too. And never forget the cardinal rule of poolside eating and drinking: no glassware!
Amy’s Pro Tip: Keep a designated shade area–not everyone wants to get a tan. Have spray bottles with water around too as a fun way to cool down.
Style your Event

One of the benefits of a pool party is that most of the decorating is already done for you: your garden and man-made waterfall speak for themselves. For a casual outdoor event, it’s always best to keep decorations simple; grab a handful of colorful flowers from the garden and bundle them in a vase. Music, of course, is essential. Many homes are ahead of the game with outdoor Bose sound systems, but if your space isn’t equipped with one, Jawbone‘s Jambox is a colourful, powerful and waterproof alternative that will do the trick.
Amy’s Pro Tip: If you’re planning to provide towels, have them specially monogrammed for your guests to double as great party favors.
Refreshment Round-Up

Remember that pool parties are not dinner parties. Guests aren’t expecting a 7-course meal. Keep it as simple as possible: less mess, less stress. Prepare as many items as you can beforehand, finger foods are ideal because there won’t be any dirty dishes to tend to. Have food dispersed throughout the party area, so no matter where people are congregating, there’s a little something to snack on nearby. Scorching sun, alcohol and an empty stomach aren’t a good combination. Prepare a welcome cocktail for guests as they arrive, and then offer self-serve beer and wine as the party continues. Serve your punch in an enclosed jar with a tap, because no one likes a fly in their drink.
Amy’s Pro Tip: Remember to include a non-alcoholic option for your guests.

Here are two refreshing summer drinks (one with alcohol, one without), to whet your appetite:

Image Source: luxuryretreats.com

Blue World Pools provides high-quality above ground swimming pools in various locations in the U.S.. To find the right pool for your needs and budget, go here.

REPOST: 10 Reasons to Reconsider the Aboveground Pool

Do you want to install a budget-friendly aboveground swimming pool but fear that it would detract from your home’s landscaping? Read this Yahoo! Shine article for tips on making your backyard pool look more inviting.

Aboveground pools have never been known for high style. Still, they remain a popular and budget-friendly option for those unable—or unwilling—to shell out a fortune for a cool-off spot. These days, however, with pool manufacturers and installers offering new shapes and surround designs, aboveground pools deserve another look. With thoughtful planning and a dose of inspiration, an aboveground pool can be every bit as lovely to the eye and welcoming to swimmers as the in-ground variety. Don't believe it? Click to see proof.

Image Source: yahoo.com

Natural materials thoughtfully positioned on a sloped site make this aboveground pool appear right at home in the yard. The lesson? To seamlessly blend your pool into the environment, opt for a surround made of local stone or wood.

Image Source: yahoo.com

On a sloped property, it's possible to position an aboveground pool so that it looks like an in-ground one. A modern wood deck and high-end furniture add to the classy illusion.

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An aboveground pool with a stained or painted wood surround looks appealing from all angles. Shown here, a pool house drives home the feeling of luxurious comfort.

For the rest of the article, click here.

Blue World Pools is a leading supplier of affordable and stylish above ground swimming pools in the U.S. Check out different models of backyard pools on this website.

Childproofing a swimming pool? Follow these essential tips

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children are most at-risk for drowning and other water-related injuries. Swimming pool owners should take steps to safeguard the pool for children. Here are a few pointers for childproofing a swimming pool:

Image Source: thesafestline.com

1. Make sure children are supervised at all times. Most pool accidents happen when kids venture to the pool without adults. As much as possible, never leave a child unattended. If a child goes missing, always check the pool first.

2. Build a fence around the pool. This prevents children from running straight to it. According to the CDC, fenced pools prevent accidents and drowning by up to 80 percent.

Image Source: guardianpoolfence.com

3. Remove pool toys when not in use. Pool toys left in the pool might attract children’s attention. Always store them away from the pool when not swimming.

Image Source: cathy.snydle.com

4. Make sure children are wearing life vests when they're swimming. This is true even for short dips, as accidents can happen very fast.

For those planning to build a home pool, it is vital to actively work with the pool builder on the design, particularly its safety features. This ensures the risk of accidents, particularly among children, is greatly reduced.

Safety is a priority for Blue World Pools when designing and building swimming pools. For a complete list of the company’s services, visit its official website.

Get your swimming pool summer-ready

It's summer, and there's no better way to enjoy it than taking a refreshing jump into the water on a scorching, lowdown afternoon. Those who have pools installed in their backyards are spared from travelling to lakes and beaches just to get their swimming fix.

But before summer, your pool has become a tubful of stagnant water and floating leaves. With the right amount of preparation, and by knowing how to do it, your pool will be ready to take that big plunge in no time. Here are the prep work basics:

1. Clean it up. Opening the pool for the swimming season and making it sparkling clean takes minimal effort, especially when it was properly maintained during the winter season. Before removing the cover, clean the area around the pool by sweeping or hosing away leaves and other debris. Fill the pool using the hose and, reconnect line valves so that water can circulate. Install and replace filters for a couple of days to ensure dirt and bacteria are skimmed away. Because pH levels also need to be tested, it may take a week before you can start taking a swim.

Image Source: dailyimprovations.com

2. Install affordable heating. A natural, economical way to warm up your swimming pool is by lining the pool bottom with a solar blanket. Easy to install, a solar blanket has a unique bubble wrap-like design that traps heat from the sun, immediately transferring the warmth to the pool and traps it long enough to enjoy warm water even for night swims. Contact a reliable pool contractor and accessories supplier to get an estimate.

Image Source: solarroller.com

3. Don't forget the chemicals. Call a professional service to test the waters---quite literally. Pool water has to be tested for alkalinity, pH levels and chlorine levels to keep it pristine and swimmable. The ideal levels, according to Popular Mechanics, are the following:

Image Source: homezada.com

• pH level: 7.2 to 7.4

• Alkalinity (this ensures consistency of the pH levels): 80 to 100

• Chlorine: 1 to 3 ppm (parts per million)


Blue Water Pools offers installation and maintenance of above ground pools and pool accessories to ensure the comfort and safety of families while they enjoy their swimming activities. Visit this blog for more advice on proper pool upkeep.

REPOST: How Swimming Pools Work, Part 3 & 4

Whether above or below ground, the system of pumps and filters are the vital heart that makes the pool work, bringing in clean water and keeping it pristine for use. This article, part of a long series on pools from HowStuffWorks.com, explores the complexities of pool pipe and pump systems.

Pool Drain Systems

We've already seen that the water in a swimming pool needs to circulate through a filtering system, to remove dirt and debris. During normal operation, water flows to the filtering system through two or more main drains at the bottom of the pool and multiple skimmer drains around the top of the pool.

The main drains are usually located on the lowest point in the pool, so the entire pool surface slants toward them. Most of the dirt and debris that sinks exits the pool through these drains. To keep people from getting their hair or limbs caught in the plumbing, the drains are almost always covered with grates or antivortex covers (a cover that diverts the flow of water to prevent a dangerous vortex from forming.

Image source: howstuffworks.com

The skimmers draw water the same way as the main drains, but they suck only from the very top of the pool (the top eighth of an inch, typically). Any debris that floats -- leaves, suntan oil, hair -- leaves the pool through these drains. The diagram below shows a common system.

In the system described here, the floating weir, the door at the inlet passageway, swings in and out to let a very small volume of water in at a time. To catch debris effectively, the goal is to skim just the surface level. The water flows through the strainer basket, which catches any larger debris, such as twigs and leaves. In addition to the main inlet, the skimmer system has a secondary equalizer line leading to a drain below the surface level. This line keeps the skimmer from drawing air into the pump system if the water level drops below the level of the main inlet.

Image source: howstuffworks.com

The water is pumped through the filtering system and back out to returns, inlet valves around the side of the pool. This system involves a lot of suction, but if the pool is built and operated correctly, there is virtually no risk of suction holding somebody against one of the drains. The only way the plumbing system could apply this sort of suction is if there were only one open drain. In a safe pool, there are always multiple main drains as well as several skimmer drains, so if somebody or something blocks one drain, the pumping system will pull water from one of the other drains. This eliminates the suction on the blocked drain.

Most swimming pools also have a couple of vacuum ports, which are only used in pool cleaning. These ports attach to pool vacuum cleaners, which work something like ordinary vacuum cleaners except that they suck water instead of air. The vacuum ports may have their own pumping system, but in most pools they are driven by the main pump.

After making its way into the various drains, the water flows on to the filtering stage. In the next section, we'll find out what the pumping and filtering systems are all about.

Pool Pump Systems

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To most of us, a pool is, more or less, a big hole in the ground. We don't see most of the expensive machinery in a pool system, because it's usually tucked away in nearby pump room. But this is the stuff that really makes the pool work.

The heart of the pool system is the water pump. In a typical pump system, an electric motor spins an impeller inside the pump housing. The impeller drives the water from the various drains through the filter and back out to the water inlets.

Just before it flows into the pump, the water passes through a metal strainer basket that catches leaves and other large debris that might clog up the pump.

Next, the water flows into the filter (or, in this setup, one of two filters). In the next section, you'll find out what happens at this point in the system.

Blue World Pools specializes in the sale and installation of above-ground pools to fit the budget and quality demands of discerning homeowners. Visit this website for a wide selection of above-ground pools.

REPOST: How to choose the correct replacement liner for above ground pools

The pool liner is an important component of any above ground pool, both functionally and aesthetically. Read this article to learn how to choose the right pool liner for your pool. 

Above ground swimming pool liners are a functional part of the swimming pool, but also add style and character. Above ground pool liners are available in an amazing selection of attractive patterns and styles, and often set the décor for the entire swimming pool area.

Image Source: wikihow.com

 
1) Determine what type of pool liner you need, an overlap style liner, or a beaded style liner. The difference between them is the way the liner is held in place inside the swimming pool.

• Beaded style liners have a very small groove, or lip, at the top edge of the liner. This small lip is snapped into a track all the way around the inside of the swimming pool at the very top of the pool wall, to hold the pool liner in place. If your swimming pool requires a beaded pool liner, you will be able to see this track by looking under the top rail on the inside of the above ground swimming pool. There are different beads, so be sure to select the proper one.
• Overlap style liners are folded over the wall of the swimming pool, and held in place underneath the top rail of the above ground swimming pool. If your swimming pool requires an overlap style liner, you can see a small amount of the pool liner under the top rail on the outside of the swimming pool.

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2) Determine what grade (thickness) of pool liner you require. The thickness generally indicates how durable the pool liner is, and how long it might last inside a swimming pool. The thicker the pool liner material is, the more durable (and more expensive) it will be.

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3) Choose your design. While most new pools come with a standard blue liner, replacement liners are available in a wide assortment of colors and patterns. 

Blue World Pools offers a wide selection of above ground pools and pool accessories. Visit its website for more useful information about above ground pool maintenance.