by Albert Venter | Mar 25, 2024 | Pool
GeoBubble™ technology is a patented bubble design for an optimised swimming pool cover material scientifically designed to increase the expected lifespan of the material by up to 25% and provides the longest possible lifespan for your swimming pool cover, ensuring the preservation of water resources while reducing the energy and chemicals consumed to maintain your pool.
• 25%+ increase in the expected lifespan of your swimming pool cover
• Designed specifically for the harsh swimming pool environment
• Developed in collaboration with two UK universities
• Save money, time and reduce the carbon footprint of your pool
• Available in a variety of standard and high-performance materials
What makes GeoBubble™ materials unique?
- Unique patented design of two bubbles joined together by a structural waistline centre section
- No sharp corners that could result in thin or weak points in the design
- No stress points due to the bubble’s smooth interconnected curves
- 50% thicker than a traditional swimming pool bubble cover material at its thinnest point
- Increased resilience against UV rays and chemical attack
Bubbles of the past
To understand the reasons for its development, it helps to consider the traditional bubble material used for pool covers. The traditional swimming pool bubble cover was developed from the packaging industry’s bubble-wrap material. The lightweight, floating material saw improvements in evaporation control as well as in heating when compared to an uncovered pool. This material however, was high-volume and low quality, with a short lifespan. This traditional round bubble shape had inherent weaknesses in its design, including thin points and high residual stress areas.
Evaporation Control – Our swimming pool cover materials reduce water losses through evaporation by working as a barrier between the water’s surface and the atmosphere. By simply covering the pool with the material, evaporation is reduced by over 98% resulting in the preservation of the water resources and increased temperatures within the swimming pool, saving water and preventing evaporative cooling.
Heat Retention – The unique profile of the GeoBubble™ technology air cells provide both buoyancy and an insulative air gap to control heat transfer enabling the swimming pool cover material to manage the pool environment and keep the pool and the desired temperature.
Temperature Increase – GeoBubble™ swimming pool covers help to increase pool temperature by allowing for solar gains, as well as retaining the gained heat by providing a barrier to evaporation and an insulative air gap.
by Albert Venter | Mar 16, 2024 | Pool
Saltwater or Chlorine?
The primary difference between a saltwater pool and a chlorine pool lies in how chlorine is introduced and maintained in the water.
CHLORINE POOL
In a traditional chlorine pool, chlorine must be added regularly to maintain proper sanitation levels. The pool owner must monitor and adjust chlorine levels to maintain balance and prevent skin and eye irritation. This requires frequent water testing and ongoing expenses for chlorine products. Additionally, the use of chemical additives in traditional chlorine pools may contribute to environmental impact.
SALTWATER POOL
Saltwater pools use a salt cell to convert salt into chlorine gas, which sanitizes the pool water continuously. They require monitoring of chlorine levels, but the generator automates the process. Saltwater pools are perceived to be less harsh on the skin and eyes and require less frequent additions of chemicals. However, they have a higher initial cost and may require occasional maintenance. Saltwater pools are considered more environmentally friendly, but it’s essential to consider the overall environmental impact.
Ultimately, the choice between a saltwater pool and a chlorine pool depends on personal preferences, maintenance preferences, budget considerations, and desired water quality and feel. Both types of pools can provide clean and enjoyable swimming experiences when properly maintained.
by Albert Venter | Mar 10, 2024 | Pool
SWIMMING POOL HEATING SOLUTIONS
Why choosing a heating system?
Did you know?
• Equipping the pool with an isothermal cover allows to divide the power need by 2! As a result, if 12kW is needed to heat a pool without an isothermal cover, 6kW is enough to heat the same pool with an isothermal cover.
• Using the heat pump when the outdoor air is the hottest will allow to maximize the performances (hence minimize the electricity consumption). Heating during hot sunny days and covering at night is the optimal solution!
• Covering the pool at night (or when the outdoor air temperature is fresher) with an isothermal cover, will slow down the decrease of pool temperature.
PARAMETERS FOR CHOOSING A HEATING SYSTEM
To define a system suitable for a pool, many parameters need to be considered.
The most important parameters (but non-exhaustive) are the ones below:
1. Average outdoor air temperature (°C)
2. Desired pool water target temperature (in °C)
3. Period of use
4. Pool volume (m3)
5. Presence of an isothermal cover or not
6. Filtration time
* The choice of heating equipment also depends on the energy source that will be used.
HEAT PUMPS
The economical and ecological solution Heat pumps are the ideal solution for heating the pool while also saving energy. The heat pump is a thermodynamic system. Its operating principle is very simple: the system takes calories from the air and transfers them directly to the water in the pool. Heat pumps can be installed easily on pools under construction and on existing pools, by a simple electrical or hydraulic connection.
by Albert Venter | Feb 15, 2024 | Pool
Maintaining a sparkling and safe pool requires regular attention to both cleanliness and chemical balance.
Here are some tips to help you keep your pool clean, clear, and safe:
Regular Skimming and Cleaning:
Use a skimmer net to remove leaves, insects, and other debris from the surface of the pool regularly. Vacuum the pool floor and brush the walls weekly to prevent algae buildup and ensure proper circulation.
Maintain Proper Chemical Balance:
- Test the water chemistry regularly using a pool testing kit to monitor pH, chlorine levels, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.
- Adjust chemical levels as needed to keep them within the recommended ranges:
- pH: 7.2-7.6
- Free chlorine: 0.5-1 ppm
- Total alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
- Shock the pool periodically, especially after heavy use, to oxidize organic contaminants and prevent algae growth.
Monitor and Maintain the Filtration System:
- Run the pool pump and filtration system for an adequate amount of time each day to ensure proper water circulation and filtration.
- Clean or backwash the filter regularly to remove trapped debris and maintain optimal filtration efficiency.
Prevent Algae Growth:
- Maintain proper water chemistry and circulation to prevent algae growth.
- Use algaecides as a preventive measure, especially during hot weather or periods of heavy rainfall.
- Regularly scrub and brush pool surfaces to remove algae spores and prevent them from taking hold.
Use Pool Sanitizers:
- Chlorine and bromine are commonly used pool sanitizers to kill bacteria and algae. Maintain appropriate sanitizer levels to keep the water safe and clean.
- Consider alternative sanitization methods such as saltwater chlorination or mineral systems for a gentler and more eco-friendly approach.
by Albert Venter | Nov 21, 2023 | Pool
DESIGN YOUR DREAM POOL INTO REALITY
Design your dream pool into reality. Before you dive into comparing the costs of pool contractors, there’s much thought to be had when designing the pool of your dreams. Just as a pool will provide you with endless amounts of fun and enjoyment, so should design it. The internet is a choc-block of design ideas, so there’s no shortage of inspiration. We thought we’d get you started with the fundamentals of designing a pool: what’s essential, what’s not, what’s nice to have, and what to avoid. With so many choices out there, it can be daunting to start but follow the right principles, and you’ll be well on your way.
WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM YOUR POOL?
That’s the first and most important question to ask. Is it for family fun? Is it to whip yourself into shape? Will it be a personal sanctuary? Are you planning to entertain friends and family? How much shade and sun do you want? What you want to use your pool for, will determine much of its design.
Most pools in South Africa take advantage of our fabulous weather, so you’ll find the vast majority of them in the garden. And for good reason. Splashing around in cool water under a clear blue sky and a bright yellow sun is our idea of heaven. And a relaxing swim under the stars is magical. Pools outside are also great for entertaining, braais, parties, and any manner of fun. On the other hand, a pool indoors has its benefits. Year-round use, whatever the weather, a perfect exercise spot, and a touch of glamour are just some of the attractions to be had. However, the increase in costs may put you off, and there’s no denying that inside pools can be heavy on the wallet.
WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR POOL TO LOOK LIKE?
Consider the pool’s shape, size, and depth before building it. The design should be cohesive with your home and garden’s style.
CONSIDER THE PRACTICALITIES
So it looks amazing and is perfectly suited for its task. But how practical is it? How easy is it to move between your house and the pool? Where will people change? Is there a convenient area for serving refreshments? Where will the pool equipment, chemicals, pool toys, and other accessories go? Consider practical issues early, so you can be sure they are addressed in your pool’s design.
SET A BUDGET.
Choose how much you want to spend on building your pool and stick to it. Yes, those optional extras may sound amazing, and they probably are, but are they affordable? You want to be enjoying your pool in your old age, not still paying for it.
THINK SAFETY.
Make your pool safe from the get-go. It will have an impact on the design and the usage of space. While swimming pools are fun, they can also pose a risk if precautions aren’t built in, especially for kids, dogs, and the elderly or infirm. So, at the design stage, you should settle on safety measures, such as a pool cover, enclosure, or fencing.
GET A QUOTE FROM THE POOL XPERT
You want the right team for the job, Pool Xpert is your network of trusted pool professionals with years of experience and knowledge in the pool industry. Make sure to meet your chosen Pool Xpert in person, and insist on detailed quotes. Ask to see previous examples of our amazing work.
MAKE SURE YOUR CHOSEN POOL XPERT IS ALIGNED WITH YOUR DREAM
Insist on detailed drawings upfront. It’s a lot easier to erase a line and redraw it on paper than it is to change work mid-project. Ensure everything that you want from your pool is included from the start. It’s your pool. You’re the customer.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BUILD A POOL?
This one’s easy. You will be swimming in the summer, not building, so aim for winter construction. It’s a busy period for pool contractors though, so book your chosen one well in advance and that’s it. Well, not really. It’s just the start of it. There are so many other things to consider when designing your pool. Just be sure to tick them off, one by one. Embark on the task fully prepared and with your eyes wide open. It’ll make jumping into your dream pool for the very first time all that more rewarding!
by Albert Venter | Nov 21, 2023 | Pool
Can you forget how to swim?
Can we forget how to swim? Many people have already asked themselves this question, whether after ten years or ten months. Fortunately, the quick answer is no. The lengthier answer requires some commitment and patience, but these top suggestions for coming back to swimming after a long break will help you on your way back to the pool.
STRENGTHEN YOUR CORE.
Although swimming works practically every muscle in the body, from the neck to the legs, it is primarily the core that is in charge of coordinating all of the parts. Working on core strength is essential before reintroducing the types of movements you’ll be doing when swimming. Even if your body is no longer accustomed to swimming freestyle or backstroke, a strong spine will give you the foundation you require to reintroduce your old strokes. Fortunately, there are a number of exercises you can do outside of the pool to begin strengthening your core before returning to the pool, such as volleyball or planks.
PRACTICE KEEPING YOUR HEAD ABOVE WATER.
When you’re ready to go to the pool, it’s essential to take things as slowly as you need to. Can you lose your ability to swim with your head in or out of the water? You should not expect to perform at the same level the first time you return to the pool after a long vacation, regardless of whether you were on your water polo team when you were younger or used to swim in the sea every summer. Instead, warm up outside the pool before cautiously stepping in until your feet are no longer touching the ground. Try to keep your head above water while swimming left or right. This can assist to awaken your instincts as a swimmer and make you feel more confident in the water. If you don’t feel ready to jump right in, you can start in the shallow end and work your way down.
START WITH BREASTSTROKE
Although everyone has a preferred swimming technique, breaststroke is usually a decent place to start when tackling your first lap. Breaststroke not only allows you to maintain your head above the water and gaze ahead, but it is also less exhausting and will make you feel more at ease in the water, especially if you are apprehensive. Just keep in mind that swimming with your head above the water can cause neck strain in the long run.
CHOSE A QUIET LANE
The anxieties you may feel upon returning to swimming after a lengthy layoff will usually dissipate after a few laps back and forth to familiarise yourself with your technique. It may still be beneficial to choose a more calm and less crowded lane so that you can move as slowly as you like and stop anytime you need to without blocking other swimmers.
SET REALISTIC GOALS
Even if you’re most concerned about forgetting your freestyle, swimming isn’t all about technique. It is a sport that involves a particular level of physical ability and endurance, so instead of racing from one end of the pool to the other, consider swimming one lap at a time and resting in between. Increase it to two at a time as you become more comfortable, and so on.
It could take you one session or weeks to remember your prior technique; it all depends on your previous skill of swimming. This is why it’s critical to create realistic goals that are in line with your abilities and ambitions.
