1. Turn off the heater:  Most pool heaters require a high volume of water to be running through them in order to operate properly.  Using a manual vacuum can restrict water flow and cause damage to your heater.  Make sure the filter pump is primed and in high speed before turning the heater back on.

2. Fill vacuum hose with water:  After assembling the vac head and hose to the pole, submerge the entire hose in the pool to fill it completely with water.  Another easy way to do this is to hold the other end of the vac hose up to a return jet in the pool.  Once the vacuum head stops bubbling air it will rest on the bottom of the pool.  Now you can insert the hose into the skimmer line without sucking air through the pump.

3. Adjust equipment valves for better suction:  On a typical equipment setup there is a valve on the filter pump that controls the amount of suction on both the skimmer line and floor/wall drains of the pool.  Once you have hooked up the manual vacuum to your skimmer line you can adjust the amount of suction on the vacuum by adjusting the valve at the equipment.  Make sure you don’t turn off the wall/floor drain completely.  The vacuum will restrict water flow through the equipment and the pump will  eventually cavitate if this happens.  Only close off the wall/floor drain valve until your hear the pump start to hesitate, then back off just a little bit.

4. Work the vacuum aross the width of the pool:  This may just be a personal preference, but I find that starting in the shallow end of the pool and vacuuming a section of the width of the pool rather than going the length is much easier.  This way you can make sure you don’t miss any spots in the middle.

5. Remove the vac hose from the skimmer first: This is an important step that prevents sucking air through the skimmer and filter pump.  Make sure to always keep the vacuum submerged in the water and never pull it out before first disconnecting from the skimmer first.

By following these 5 steps you will be able to vacuum your pool safely and efficiently every time!  If you have questions about this or any other pool maintenance service, feel free to contact Signature Pools at 630.845.1145 or send us an email service@signaturepoolschicago.com

One indicator you will need to notice regularly is the pressure gauge on your cartridge filter.  This tells you how much back pressure is being created by the system.  As your filters get dirty, the pressure goes up.  Once this pressure reaches 10 lbs higher than normal operating pressure, you know it’s time to clean the filters.  After cleaning the filters, you can reset the ‘clean’ dial on the gauge- the ‘dirty’ indicator will point to 10 lbs higher than ‘clean’.

 So when is it time to REPLACE the filters completely? When the pressure does not lower after cleaning. 

Typically, you will get 3-5 seasons out of your cartridge filters before needing to replace them.  Just make sure to keep up with cleanings throughout the summer.

 If you have questions about your cartridge filters, or would like to schedule a service call to have them cleaned or replaced, please feel free to contact us at 630.845.1145 or send us an email here.

Lately I have noticed several articles printed in local newspapers and in online sources that talk about the Virginia Graeme Baker act of 2008 and how it relates to swimming pool safety.  The law is intended to protect swimmers at a public pool  from entrapment due to equipment suction.  For details of this law and its requirements please visit HERE.

Many customers have asked about this law and how it relates to the RESIDENTIAL swimming pool industry.  Here are are few things to keep in mind when considering the safety of your backyard pool.

 The Virginia Graeme Baker act (VGB) does not currently apply to residential swimming pools at the national level. only public swimming pools are required to comply.  However, some local municipalities may enforce portions of the law for backyard pools as well.

Is your swimming pool builder knowledgeable and up to speed on the requirements of the law, and can he provide your residential pool with the same safety systems now required for public pools?  Signature Pools and Spas uses several ‘layers’ of protection to ensure a safe swimming environment for our clients.  Dual wall drains have replaced single floor drains, approved safety covers are used on all of our suction outlets, atmospheric vacuum release systems and SVRS pumps are available on all of our pool equipment systems.

Here at Signature Pools we strive to educate our clients on all facets of their swimming pool project and industry developments as a whole.  If you have questions about the safety of your fiberglass swimming pool or equipment, please feel free to contact us.  Even if we haven’t built your pool we’d like to help.  Call us today at 630.845.1145 to find out more or to schedule a consultation for your very own Signature Pool and Spa.

We here at Signature Pools spend plenty of time marveling at new technology and how it is effecting the world around us and the swimming pool industry in particular. Staying informed on upcoming deveopments in the installation and care of swimming pools is pivotal to our success and is part of what sets Signature Pools apart as an industry leader.

One of the most exciting developments we have seen lately is the ability to control your pool equipment remotely- anywhere in the world you get internet access through your Iphone, Ipod Touch or Ipad. Pretty incredible! Pentair Water has developed the ScreenLogic Mobil App available free from the Apple App Store.

The abilities of the system are not limited to just a few controls. You can adjust the water temperature of your pool or spa, turn on lights, jets or water features, slides, or even video monitor the pool area from remote cameras. There is also a history feature which allows you to see previous settings for the pool, spa and air temperature along with lighting and other circuit control history.

The best part of this technology is that it’s available as a retro-fit on Pentair’s IntelliTouch panel. You will need transponder at the control panel, a wireless router and internet access in your home. Check out Pentair’s Website for more details on the system or feel free to contact Signature Pools at 630.845.1145 if you would like the system installed with your in ground swimming pool.

Very often customers will ask me if I think it’s necessary for them to hire a pool service company to maintain their fiberglass swimming pool and equipment.  As with most things in life, the answer is not always short and easy.  Your lifestyle, available free time and how you use your pool are all factors to take into account. Here are a few things to consider before making the decision.

 1. How much time are you willing/able to put into your pool?

Some people think that as long as the water is clear, everything is working perfect in their fiberglass swimming pool.  Daily chemical checks can get neglected if a homeowner is not aware of the necessary water chemistry balance needed.  This process can take just a few minutes a day to test and adjust the chemicals in your pool water.

2. How often do you use your pool?

Are there always family gatherings and parties in your backyard and pool?  If so, keeping up with routine maintenance is crucial.  As more people get in the pool, so does the demand for sanitation and circulation of your pool water to stay clean and healthy.  Conversely, if you are a homeowner who rarely uses their pool, or are not home very often, pool maintenance  may be overlooked or ignored.  Not only chemical balancing, but vacuuming and filter cleanings need to take place at regular intervals to keep your pool and equipment in perfect running order.

3. Do you have a salt water system?

If you are using a chlorine generation system, it is crucial that the cell be cleaned on a regular basis.  Mineral deposits will build up on the cell over time and will eventually prevent the system from producing the chlorine necessary to sanitize your pool water.  Manufacturers recommend acid-washing the cell every 3 months.  Also, using a chlorine generator tends to make the pH of pool water drift higher, causing calcium buildup on the floor and walls of your pool.  It is important to keep the pH within an acceptable range to ensure your equipment runs efficiently and lasts a long time.  Check out this article for more information on adjusting the pH of your pool water.

How you answer these questions will determine if you really do need to hire a pool service company.  For many customers it’s a matter of time and convenience.  Signature Pools and Spas can help get you on the track to a worry free swimming season.  We offer weekly, bi-weekly, and one-time ’check up’ services.  Rates vary by location and scope of services performed.  Contact Signature Pools if you have any questions about pool service, maintenance, or have questions about caring for your pool.

1. Take a look at your Plat of Survey

The plat of survey is a document showing the exact location of your home, property lines, building setback lines, utility easements, flood plains, or any other special feature unique to your property. In general, you cannot install your pool equipment beyond any of these setback lines.  If you’re currently in the research phase of buying a new pool it is essential that you have a copy of your plat of survey to give to your sales representative. 

 2.  City, Village, or County Building Codes

As a general rule your pool equipment must be a minimum of 10’ from the water’s edge of the pool.  If you’re installing a heater with your pool (98% of our clients in Illinois do) you need to consider the distance between any windows and the exhaust vent on the heater.  Most municipalities require a 4’ minimum distance between the pool heater exhaust vent and any windows or window wells on the home.  For any other specific codes regarding pool equipment location you can contact your sales representative or your local governing municipality.

 3.  Association Requirements

These days many home owners associations have specific requirements as to the location of the pool equipment.  For instance, some associations won’t allow it on the side of your house.  Other associations want to make sure it is a certain number of feet off of your property line.  If you’re currently in the research phase of buying a new pool we highly recommend getting a copy of any association requirements prior to meeting with any sales representative. 

4.  Ease of Access

 Make sure the equipment will be located in a place with easy access as well.  If you purchase a remote with your pool you won’t be spending as much time at your equipment pad, but you will still want it to be in a reasonable place for maintenance and service.  If possible we recommend keeping your equipment within the fenced area of the pool.  This too will make it much easier to access your pool equipment.  If it’s not possible for the equipment to be installed within the fence area we highly recommend adding a gate close to the pool equipment.

 5.  Think About Noise

When you are deciding where to place the pool equipment, keep in mind the noise factor! Even with new variable speed pumps or 2 speed pumps the pump noise can be a nuisance if you’re equipment is too close your pool or any entertaining area around you pool.  If possible you also want to avoid installing the pool equipment right outside of a bedroom or any room of the house that is often used.

 I know this information seems a bit overwhelming- but here’s the good news: Signature Pools and Spas has installed over 400 swimming pools in the Midwest and we are familiar with what works and what doesn’t…in all types of backyards! We are also familiar with local code requirements and municipal regulations and can help you determine the best location for your swimming pool and equipment. If you have questions or would like further information about pool locations, please feel free to contact Signature Pools and Spas at 630.845.1145

pH LEVELS ARE CRITICAL TO THE CLAIRTY OF YOUR POOL WATER AND LONGEVITY OF YOUR POOL EQUIPMENT.

By far the most important factor in keeping the overall health of your pool is the pH, or degree of acid or base in the water.  pH is measured on a scale from 0 to 14 with 7 being neutral. 

Pool water pH is best kept in the 7.2 to 7.8 range.  When pH remains below 7.2, the water is considered to be corrosive and can damage metals in the equipment such as heat exchangers or lights.  It is also more difficult to keep chlorine in the pool because it becomes much less stable and is consumed faster than would be used at normal pH levels.

Keeping the pH higher than 7.8 will increase the tendency to form scale or cloudy water.  Calcium is an unstable mineral and when pH is high, the calcium has a hard time dissolving in the water.  High pH will also reduce chlorine effectiveness resulting in the need to maintain higher chlorine levels to achieve proper sanitation. Be aware that using a salt water chlorine generator will naturally increase the pH of your pool water and will need to be adjusted more frequently than when using stablized chlorine.

If pH levels are low, sodium carbonate (pH Up) is added to raise the pH.  If the pH is high, ph Down is used.  pH Down comes in two forms: liquid acid (muriatic acid) or dry acid (sodium bisulfate).

By keeing a close watch on your swimming pool pH levels, you will have a more enjoyable, safer, and easier to maintain environment in your backyard! If you have further questions about the pH of your pool water, or would like any other information about maintaining your pool, please feel free to contact us or call Signature Pools and Spas at 630.845.1145

April 2010

In the Spring of 2009, we installed a fiberglass pool designed and built by Signature Pools. We moved from Los Angeles to Chicago several years ago. Our home in Los Angeles had a beautiful pool which served as a family gathering destination. Our children literally grew up in that pool and we missed having it terribly. After we moved to Chicago we tried in vain to recreate that family experience – at one point we installed a spa, but it was never the same. And now that our older children have grown, we have adopted two young children. Our younger children spent the entire summer in our new pool last year! We know in our hearts that we have finally recaptured that special focal point for our family.

Before we installed our pool, we researched several companies and types of pools. We selected a fiberglass shell because of its durability, beauty and ability to withstand the elements. During the proposal process, Todd Emmerson – Signature’ Sales Manager – was by far the most helpful to us as we considered various designs, styles and sizes. The Company and its staff were incredibly professional and helpful throughout the entire process – from design through permitting, construction and set up. The project was done on time and within budget. And Signature was great at communicating with us all through the entire process.

The actual construction went very smooth and much quicker than I had anticipated. One thing that caught me by surprise was the toll the installation took on our yard. I knew the yard would get torn up, but until you experience it firsthand you are not prepared. Regardless, Signatures’ crew was extremely careful, and the safety of my family was paramount to them. They also did an outstanding job cleaning up at the end of each day and made sure to put things back to its original state as much as possible upon completion.

Once the pool was installed, Jim Gavula spent a great deal of time teaching us how the equipment worked and how to care for our new pool. We called Jim several times with a lot of questions and he was always patient and very helpful.

Signature Pools and its staff were phenomenal! We love our new pool and expect to get many years of enjoyment from it with our children – and hopefully our grandchildren at some point in the future.

Very Truly Yours,

Ken Mooney
Vernon Hills, IL
Leisure Pools – Roman 19

Thanks Ken for your kind words.  The team at Signature Pools takes pride in receiving such letters of recommentation from our clients. As an industry leading fiberglass pool builder we realize that our success is built one pool and one happy client at a time. If you’re currently in the research phase of purchasing a pool we invite you to read all of the testimonials on our main website SignaturePoolsChicago.com in the About Us section as well as on this blog. On this blog you can find additional testimonials under Customers or News and Updates. You can stay up to date with Signature Pools by subscribing to the RSS feed in the upper right hand corner of this page or by joining our Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/SignaturePools. You can also follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Signature_Pools.

Pictures in this article: The first picture is a screenshot of the design that our client was able to see before construction of the pool began. The second picture is of the finished pool.

On a side note, this pool was also awarded by Leisure Pools as the Best Roman Model pool for 2010. You can read a little more about this project and the award we received here.

One of the most exciting advancements in residential swimming pool technology has been the development of salt water chlorine generators.  This type of system works on vinyl and concrete pools but is expecially effective on fiberglass swimming pools and makes them even easier to maintain.  These systems are used as a replacement to an in-line chlorine feeder that sanitises the pool water. But, as with anything ‘new and improved’, there are pros and cons to the products and a few common misconceptions.  Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding which kind of sanitation to use on your fiberglass swimming pool.

 Chlorine Feeder: Cons

-Uses processed chlorine tablets that dissolve into your pool water

-A manual hand valve is used to control amount of chlorine put into the pool

-Chlorine may cause unpleasant odor, uncomfortable skin and eyes, and faded bathing suits

-Tablets must be added to unit continually throughout the season

Chlorine Feeder Pros:

-Chlorine is being added to the pool as long as filter pump is running

-Unit does not need to be cleaned or serviced throughout the season

Misconception: Chlorine feeders are expensive  because the tablets need to be replaced all the time.

Truth: A typical fiberglass swimming pool owner in the Midwest will spend between $100-$200 for a year supply of chlorine

Salt Water Chlorine Generators: Pros

-Chlorine is produced in its natural state and added into the water.

-No detectable taste, odor, or discomfort on skin.

-Chlorine level is controlled electronically

Cons:

-Salt level in the pool must be maintained within a certain range in order for unit to produce chlorine

-Cell must be acid washed several times a year to remove mineral deposits

-Chlorine is only produced when pump is in high speed

-Cell can deteriorate over time and will need to be replaced

-Stabilizer must be added to pool water to help prevent chlorine burn-off from sunlight

Misconception: Chlorine generators provide a completely automated system and no other chemicals need to be checked in the swimming pool.

Truth:Even though chlorine is produced by the cell, all other chemicals- pH, Alkaline, Stabilizer etc- need to be tested and regulated manually.

The decision is ultimatly up to the customer to decide.  We at Signature Pools highly recommend salt water generators to our clients because of the ease of use and resulting water condition of the pool.  However, these systems are not for everyone and do not replace the need for regular chemical checks.  If you have any questions about chlorine generators or in-line feeders, please feel free to contact Signature Pools and Spas at 630.845.1145.

This past week we have received several calls from customers asking about their pool pumps. In many cases they are not able to prime the pump completely or it looses prime when turned off. Here are a few things to look for if you come across this issue yourself.

1. Pump Lid- Make sure the lid for the pump is seated correctly and tightened all the way. Also check and see that the gasket between the lid and pump housing is in place and lubricated. A damaged, worn, or misaligned lid or seal can cause the pump to suck in air- preventing a full prime.

2. Skimmer and pump basket-check both the basket in the skimmer and inside the pump housing to make sure they are sitting correctly in place. A skimmer basket should align flush to the bottom of the skimmer pot. The pump basket should always be seated in the bottom of the pump. Many pump manufacturers such as Jandy and Pentair have a notch in the top of the basket that lines up with a grove inside the pump.

3. Water Level- make sure the water level is high enough in your pool. If it’s too low, air can be sucked through the skimmer and into the pump. Over time, this air can damage your pool equipment.

4. Loose pump union- check the threaded plumbing on the front of your pump. A loose union fitting may be allowing air to leak into the pump. Make sure to also check that the gaskets between the union fittings are also seated correctly and in place.

Preventing air from leaking into your circulation pump is important to keeping your pool equipment working well for years to come. If you have any questions about pool pumps, or any other pool equipment and maintenance, feel free to contact us at Signature Pools or call 630.845.1145.