Archive for the 'Pool & BBQ' Category

Headaches No More, I Know the Best Shop to Buy My Swimming Pool Accessories

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

Fine, I admit it. With the pool set up, we’ll be the ones inviting people to come to our house rather than us looking for invites. More importantly we are the house all the kids want to come to. That’s important to us. I’m not exactly a wealthy person. I have a really nice house with an in ground pool; the reason I got a good deal out of it was because the couple selling the place was in the middle of a nasty divorce. That’s the truth. You can tell me off all you want but I’m really glad we got this house. My family was in dire need of better accommodations and this place fit the bill quite nicely. Plus, did I tell you that it has an in ground pool? Really, I did? I mentioned it again for the blessings my family and friends have been enjoying. Swimming Pool Cleaners

Having the pool has been an enormous blessing but a huge challenge at the same time. Since we moved in, we’ve been on a steep learning curve. It was that time of the year when the pool supplies have to dragged out and the pool has to be opened; it was a bad timing for us because we were short of cash since the move. We couldn’t afford to hire a professional pool opening person so we just “winged” it. We did pretty well. I had a superficial comprehension of pool chemicals and PH levels and piping and so on. I have a firm grasp on how swimming pool filters, pool pumps and general pool equipment work so we were in a good position.

When I went to the local equipment place to get some advice on buying pool supplies, that’s the time I started having problems. From assistance to swimming pool equipment to any other backyard supplies, you really have to check them out for yourself. I really felt that these people didn’t really care about me but only wanted to sell me as much swimming pool equipment as they could get me to buy. I felt like I was robbed every time I visit that place. They can put a huge dent on your wallet by making it look as though buying swimming pool accessories is the most difficult thing to do on earth. I fell for it a couple of times but not anymore. I know it’s a safety issue but come on people; in the end we’re really only talking about water here. It’s mostly common sense. I came across a website called 1800pools.com and solved my pool supply problems. Todd and his company believe that you and I are entitled to have an exciting backyard experience filled with fun. Above Ground Pool Kit

Home Tips: Popular Ways To Deck Your Swimming Pool

Tuesday, October 20th, 2009

Pool builders are not only experts in installing inground swimming pools but in designing and constructing aesthetically pleasing decks. The truth be told, we spend more time pool-side than in the pool itself and pool builders know this. Your pool builder will help you decide how large your pool deck should be. Allow enough space for all of your patio furniture, grill, planters and plenty of room to lounge and mingle with guests. Your pool builder may correctly tell you, that bigger is better, when it comes to planning your pool deck and lounging area. Go to Pool decks Venice for more information.

A professional pool builder will automatically orient your pool in regards to the sun and your personal preferences. After the pool placement and materials have been agreed upon, your pool builder will help you decide what type of decking and landscaping would best fulfill the vision that you have for your personal paradise.

Some popular materials used by pool builders for practical and aesthetic reasons include; decorative concrete, composite material, gunite, teak, treated lumber, acrylic, exposed aggregate, natural stone, brick and tile to name but a few.

Upkeep is an important part of selecting your pool deck material and your pool builder can inform you to the types of care required for different materials. For instance composite materials are man-made and are usually created to mimic the look of wood. They are made from several types of materials, such as, recycled wood, plastics and polymer resins. While they tend to be more expensive than treated lumber, they require less long-term maintenance.

Your pool builder may recommend granite decking for its extreme durability and the fact that it only improves with age; although it can be expensive, it will last forever. Refer to Pool decks Venice for more information.

Another popular choice with pool builders is concrete and gunite. There are many professional pool builders who specialize in concrete and gunite (a pneumatically applied concrete that is sprayed over a steel grid). Concrete and gunite are also wise choices if you are consulting with a pool builder about refinishing your deck or pool interior. These mediums allow your pool builder to pour the gunite or concrete directly over the old decking. The professional pool builder can texture the gunite or concrete to look like flagstone, slate and various other natural substances.

Pool builders that specialize in gunite and concrete tend to be located in warmer states, as concrete and gunite may not be the best choices for colder climates; due to the possibility of cracking in extreme temperature shifts. Your pool builder can help you determine the best options for your particular area.

Acrylic is another popular choice for pool builders as it is durable and can be made to look like natural stone, tile, or brick and is also available in numerous textures, colors and patterns.

When you and your pool builder are planning your pool deck, be sure that your pool builder understands your vision, how much you entertain and be sure that your pool builder allows ample congregating space in the specialty areas like the barbeque and hot-tubs etc.

Interview several pool builders before deciding on the one who will build your oasis; talk to previous customers of the pool builder and be sure you pick the pool builder with the best long-term satisfaction. The pool builder who gets your business should be the one who listens and assists you in making your vision become a wonderful reality. Visit Pool decks Venice for further information.

My Overpriced Swimming Pool Equipment Supplier Has To Go

Friday, October 9th, 2009

A couple of years ago, I finally purchased my “dream home”. You know, the cozy two-story brick with hardwood flooring, at the basement you’ll find the “man cave”, basketball court for the boys in the back yard and a huge pool in the corner. Comparing it with the last place we lived in, the mortgage payment is pretty big but it’s worth it. One of my problems has always been the overwhelming cost of swimming pool accessories. There’s only one pool supplies store in my town. They know that they’re the lone supplier, too. They really overcharge people on swimming pool equipment. I got fed up with all the nonsense so I began doing some research online and came across an awesome web site. Swimming Pool Kits

They have it all - from swimming pool liners, swimming pool cleaners, swimming pool pumps or swimming pool filters. Even if you don’t have a pool, they have stuff related to backyard fun. Maybe you’re considering installing that above ground pool kit or maybe you’re even contemplating an above ground pool kit, they have everything you will ever need. There are “do-it-yourself” instructions so you’ll learn how to install this stuff on your own! Can you believe it! Most of these kinds of companies will tell you things like, “this above ground pool kit is way too difficult for a simpleton like you so you will have to pay us several thousand dollars to do it for you”. You won’t get that response from the guys at 1800pools.com.At the end of the project, you’ll still have money left over because they will go to great lengths to help you do as much for yourself.

This amazing company even has video tutorials available to guide you step by step through the installation process of your above ground pool kit or below ground pool kit. If you own a pool, you must check these guys out, I’m telling you. Their information will turn you into pool equipment pro in no time. From swimming pool supplies like chemical usage to swimming pool liners these folks at 1800pools.com.Consider the thought. Picture this, what if you’re more adept on the needs of your pool than the fools at your local pool equipment shop? Think of the money you’ll save over time.1 800 Pools exists to serve you and your family with all of your outdoor fun requirements. Swimming Pool Filters

Find out all about pool equipment and even more on pool cleaners on this informative site.

Friday, October 2nd, 2009

I’m greatly impressed by people who don’t stop in pursuing their goals even in the midst of recession. Case in point: Todd Daugherty. He’s the founder and owner of this amazing pool equipment website called 1800pools.com. While I was looking for a store online where I can buy pool supplies for my big in ground pool, I came across this great website and started off my search. It’s a one stop shop for pool fans like me. There, at the top of the page, is a dancing frog. You can really tell they’ve put a great deal of effort into this site and really do care about the impression they are making on their customers. I don’t know about you but if come across a web site, yes even swimming pool equipment sites, that are dull and boring then I may just move on; especially when I can go to a site like 1800pools.com. pool equipment

As for the merchandise, you may have to bid goodbye to your local mom and pop outlet store. After visiting this web site you will no longer need to help pay the rent for the overpriced swimming pool equipment store. You don’t have to look anywhere else because they have everything you need from pool liners to pool cleaners to pool filters and pool pumps.

The youtube channel is one of the things I really liked about 1800pools.com There seem to be new and cool stuff in the site such as the do-it-yourself swimming pool installation for a below ground pool kit and chemical safety. The swimming pool equipment videos are really helpful especially for visual learners like me. I’m interested in applying for a job at 1800pools.com and take part in the team that develops their ad campaigns in their youtube channel. You may want to check out their commercials ads at their channel. It’s really informative. pool cleaners

The guys and gals over at 1800pools.com really seem to be into the whole “do-it-yourself” thing. They did a series of videos on how to install your own in ground pool. Come on, who installs their own below ground pool kit nowadays? The guys have so much faith in us; they are even willing to bet that you and I are capable of doing it. That kind of attitude rocks, don’t you think? I mean, I might be able to install my own above ground pool kit but a below ground pool kit may take more expertise than I have. The 1800pools.com team assume that people are a lot smarter than they think. I really love that.

Improved swimming pool safety with the use of Swimming pool enclosures

Thursday, August 13th, 2009

Owning your own pool is really great, however does mean that you need to take on some level of responsibility towards safety.

If you are fortunate enough to have your very own swimming pool at home then it goes without saying that you will want to make use of it for as many days as possible throughout the year.

With the use of a Swimming pool enclosures you can enjoy the benefits of going for a swim and having a bit of fun even when the weather is cold or raining; your pool basically becomes a year round facility! Plus you have the peace of mind that your pool is safe.

Safety is paramount if you have children or pets as there is the constant worry that they may get too close to your pool and fall in. By placing an enclosure around the swimming area this worry is eliminated as there is no way that your children will be able to open the enclosure and your pets certainly wouldn’t be able to! No one will be able to access the pool without being able to open the enclosure, meaning safety is taken care of

Currently there are no legal obligations to secure your swimming pool. In France however, and possibly other parts of Europe, you have to by law provide a safety barrier around your pool; failure to do so will mean you incur a large fine. In cases such as this it goes without saying that you should invest in a swimming pool enclosure.

Swimming pool enclosures are now growing to be just as popular as the pools themselves. Over the last few years more people are now investing in them. One of the main reasons for this is to ensure the safety of family and to keep the pool secure. It is due to this increase in popularity that has meant an increase in the choice that they are now available in; you can get them to fit any size or shape and the flexibility of the design will mean they respond to your most creative and imaginative plans.

Safety and security are one of the main reasons that these enclosures are now sought after by so many people. They do also have a whole host of other benefits such as; they provide a reduction in chemical use and retain heat as well as filters UV rays, which inhibit the growth of algae. Also these enclosures can be either completely removed when the weather is good, or alternatively you can swim with the enclosure on.

Don’t risk the safety of your family; make your pool and surrounding area secure with the help of a Swimming pool enclosures.

1800POOLS.com: One-Stop Shop for Great Swimming Pool Supplies

Monday, August 10th, 2009

It’s really not that easy having a swimming pool in your backyard, especially if you do not have the right Swimming Pool Kits to maintain it. Of course, you can always go for the traditional ways of maintaining pools, but doing so would take up a huge chunk of your time and effort. Having a busy schedule may not allow you to maintain your pool regularly, so your best option to find a good supplier of the latest Swimming Pool Kits that can make pool maintenance a whole lot easier. As for me, I found 1800POOLS.com and I am very happy with the way they help me maintain my pool. Not only am I finding cleaning and maintaining my pool to be a breeze, I also have more time having fun with my family and entertaining my friends in our pool area because I am always able to buy the right kits, gadgets and tools for DIY pool cleaning and maintenance.Pool Cleaners

So, where do you begin when you are looking for the right Swimming Pool Kits ? Well, for starters, you need to focus on getting the most effective supplies and equipment that you can use to clean your pool. Whether you have an in ground or above ground swimming pool, you will definitely need an automatic pool cleaner and electronic vacuum. These type of cleaners are very effective at cleaning the bottom of your pool, as they can take out dirt from hard-to-reach underwater nooks and crannies. The best place to buy the latest in Swimming Pool Kits is at 1800POOLS.com. What I liked about this online shop is that it offers a wide variety of brands and types of pool vacuums and cleaners. always make it a point to be very cautious when choosing the right Swimming Pool Kits . By the way, when it comes to cleaning your pool, you also have to get chemical soluble called clarifiers because they can significantly make the removal of dirt a whole lot easier, whether the dirt is floating on the water or it stuck on the bottom of your pool. Pool Cleaners

Along with cleaning equipment and accessories, you need to buy swimming pool supplies that are meant to preserve the cleanliness of your pool. Remember that your pool is basically a stagnant body of water. If you do not put cleaning agents like chlorine or make use of chlorinators, then you will see algae forming in the bottom and sides of your pool. In order to make your swimming area fun and safe for you and your family, you must continuously look for new products and devices that will make pool maintenance more efficient. I always visit 1800POOLS.com to learn what’s hot and what’s not in Swimming Pool Kits that are important for my pool maintenance. This web site highlights a product every week, which is intended to make visitors become aware of the latest Swimming Pool Kits and maintenance equipment.

If you do not add accessories to your swimming pool, it may not look interesting enough for your friends, family and most especially kids. it is always to your advantage if you invest in pool accessories that will improve the look and ambiance of your pool area. If you really want your family and friends to enjoy their time at your pool, you should add accessories like lounge chairs, floats, as well as inflatable toys. As to my pool accessories, I have found and bought them at 1800POOLS.com.

How To Choose A Solar Pool Heater

Friday, July 17th, 2009

There are several solar pool heater kits available in the market these days. They cost between $3,000 to $4,000 for the materials and labor. In terms of recouping your initial investment, you could probably get your money’s worth in energy savings, within two to seven years. This all depends on the fuel costs in your area.

Solar pool heaters are also more durable than heat or gas-pump pool heaters.

Before getting a solar pool heater system, you have to do a little research. One priority is to find out the solar resource of your location. The design and efficiency of your solar pool heater will depend upon the amount of solar energy reaching the site of your pool. Because the system utilizes direct solar radiation, you won’t need to have sunny weather all the time. As long as the sun continues to rise, it will be effective. Installers can perform a solar site analysis for you, to help you find the best spot for your solar pool heater.

Then you will need to find out the proper size for your solar pool heater collector. Factors that can determine this include the size of the pool, the length of the swimming season, the desired pool temperature, your area’s solar resource, and your collector’s efficiency. The surface area of your solar collector should also be equivalent to at least 50% to 100% of the surface area of your pool.

The efficiency of your solar pool heater will be determined by the collector’s thermal performance rating. The higher the efficiency, the bigger your savings on annual operating costs will be. A more highly efficient collector will also require a smaller surface area.

Before you purchase a solar pool heating system, be sure to shop around for various models. There are various collectors to choose from. Find out which of them best suit your requirements. You’ll have to compare the costs, with the savings you’ll achieve in the long run. Don’t just pick a system based on its estimated costs. There are various other factors to consider.

Check with the local building codes, subdivision covenants, and zoning ordinances that pertain to your pool location. You may be required to obtain a building permit for your solar pool heating installation. Some problems with building code could include excessive roof load, unacceptable heat exchangers, unlawful tampering with water supplies, or improper wiring. Zoning issues can be obstructions to the side yards, some protrusions on a roof might be illegal, and the distance of the system from the street or lot boundary. You’ll need to contact the local jurisdiction’s zoning and building enforcement divisions, and the community association, to find out more about the requirements.

These are a few things you need to know when you’re about to install a solar pool heater. Hopefully these can help you decide on the right model for your pool.

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Anna is a webmaster and a blogger who educates others on solar energy uses and cleaner living styles.

For more information on using solar power to heat your pool, see her articles on Solar Pool Heaters. To learn more about do-it-yourself projects you can try at home, visit her blog on DIY Solar Power.

Source Article: Choosing a Solar Pool Heater

1800 Pools, All Types of Swimming Pool Supplies

Saturday, June 20th, 2009

Providing the best in spas and Swimming Pool Supplies, supplies and accessories is the number one mission at 1800 Pools. They stock and sell a tremendous amount of Swimming Pool Supplies, supplies and accessories, and you can take advantage of this volume pricing. Their secure website makes all of their products and accessories easily, and safely, available, at the touch of your fingertips.Swimming Pool Kits

Previously, in ground swimming pools were a commodity that only the higher classes could afford, but today in ground swimming pools are becoming more affordable for even those who are middle class. Today, though, more people than ever before are investing in swimming pools, besides providing endless hours of summer backyard fun, a swimming pool also increases the value of one’s home.

If you want a fun, cool, wet place to rejuvenate on a summer’s day, or just a calm place to float and relax, an above ground pool is a great option. 1800 Pools offers you the top of the line choices in a below ground pool kit and an above ground pool kit plus pool equipment, supplies and accessories. Do you require a pool pump? They have these. Pool liners, heaters, cleaners and chemicals is also available, for you to keep your pool in top maintenance form.

You can save money by taking care of your own maintenance and cleaning, with a large assortment of cleaning supplies from 1800 Pools. Pool toys and floats, as well as exercise equipment will add to your pool.

1800 Pools has all the Swimming Pool Supplies and equipment you need to winterize your pool at the end of the season. When winter ends and you want to re-open the pool, you know it will not be dirty and everyone will be able to have fun.

Just because the summertime is over doesn’t have to mean the end of enjoying your backyard. In addition to pools, spas and other fun water recreation facilities, 1800 Pools has a great selection of winter time fun, too. As people decline to just sit out the cooler months inside their homes, and 1800 Pools has exactly the ice-rink package for you.

If you want affordable high quality family fun try 1800 pools, they are there for you no matter what your requirements are.Swimming Pool Kits

Bring Your Patio’s Look Together With Outdoor Area Rugs

Tuesday, June 16th, 2009

As spring arrives, it is time to get out into the yard and get ready for summer barbecues, backyard parties, and relaxing meals in the cool summer evenings. A favorite spring project for many homeowners is sprucing up the outdoor patio. New outdoor furniture, plants, and most especially a nice, outdoor area rug, can transform a tired, dull looking outdoor patio into a place where you’ll want to spend every available summertime moment.

When sprucing up an outdoor patio, it is important not to overlook the deck itself. Re-staining the wood on a deck every year is impractical, but that is no reason not to spend some time giving it a fresh new look. Giving your deck a fresh, springtime cleaning is as easy as hosing off the dirt and debris from winter, and adding a beautiful, outdoor area rug that will bring your patio’s look together. There are many beautiful, practical options available from brands that specialize in making discount rug store designed for the outdoors, such as Weatherwise, Sun Porch, and Piazza.

Weatherwise offers 100% olefin rugs in neutral colors, that are both sunlight and fade resistant, and can be cleaned with a garden hose. Weatherwise area rugs are perfect for adding some comfort to your patio, without taking the spotlight away from other areas of your patio or yard, like potted flower arrangements or hanging bird feeders.

Of course, completely neutral rugs are not what all patios need. If you are looking for neutral rugs with a little bit of flavor, Sun Porch also offers 100% olefin area rugs that are water resistant; they also feature “sunbrella” fade resistant fabric double borders in beautiful colors such as mint, seaglass, and mango. You are sure to be able to find a color that compliments your already well decorated patio.

Now, if you are looking for an eyecatching rug to make your patio’s look, rather than compliment it, Piazza is for you. Piazza offers outdoor area rugs woven out of synthetic, high resistant yarns, perfect for outdoor use. With eye-catching designs, and beautiful, vibrant colors such as red, sand black, and natural green, a Piazza rug is perfect for creating a sophisticated, elegant look that you will want to buy furniture and outdoor decorations to compliment.

So get out there, and enjoy the beautiful spring weather by creating an amazing place for your family and friends to create wonderful summertime memories in. Whether you need an outdoor area rug that is simple and classic, perfectly colored and designed to compliment existing furniture, or a showstopping centerpiece, the right rugs will bring the look of your patio together.

Solar Pool Heaters - What they are

Thursday, June 11th, 2009

Solar Pool heaters can greatly reduce your energy costs. They’re more cost effective than either gas or heat-pump swimming pool heaters. You’ll be able to save on annual operating costs once a solar pool heater system is installed. Best of all, a solar swimming pool heater can be used in most climates.

The typical solar pool heater system consists of a solar collector, a filter, a pump, and a flow-control valve.

- The solar collector is the device which the pool water passes through and gets heated by the sun.

- The filter removes the dirt and debris before the water is pumped into the solar collector.

- The pump is the what circulates the water through the filter and solar collector, and brings it back into the swimming pool.

- And finally, there is the flow-control valve. It is either an automatic or a manual device, which redirects the water through the solar collector.

A solar pool heater system works in the following manner:

The water from the pool is pumped through the filter and then enters the solar collector, where it is again heated before it returns to the pool. In hot climates, the solar collector can also be utilized to cool the pool, by circulating the water at night.

Some solar pool collectors use sensors and a valve, which redirects water through the solar collector when the collector temperature is greater than the pool water temperature. When both temperatures are the same, the filtered pool water will not return to the collector but will simply return to the pool.

There are different types of solar pool heaters. They differ in the types of materials they are made out of. You will need to find out which type is best for your region’s climate, and how to use it.

There are glazed and unglazed solar collectors. If the temperature in your area reaches above freezing, then you’ll probably just need an unglazed solar collector. This is made out of heavy-duty plastic or rubber, treated with a UV light inhibitor. Unglazed solar collectors are cheaper than their glazed counterparts, because the parts are inexpensive, and their design is simple.

Glazed solar collectors are typically made out of copper tubing and aluminum plates with iron-tempered glass covers. These are quite expensive, but in colder weather, this type of system is more efficient in heating pool water than unglazed collectors are. Glazed solar collector systems can also be used as domestic hot water heaters. Both types of solar pool heating systems need to have freeze protection when used in harsh cold weathers.

As you can see, solar pool heater systems can be a good investment. You’ll save a lot of money in terms of energy costs, in the long run.

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For more information on solar pool heaters, and how to choose the solar pool heating system which is right for you, visit Solar Pool Heating or Do It Yourself Solar Pool Heaters.

Anna Williams is the webmaster of a website on Solar Power Information.


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