Leisure is an important commodity in the hustling and bustling life of a modern man. Needless to mention, pools of any kind, whether the large community swimming pool or the small one in the backyard space; are an integral part of your leisure. Nothing can beat the fun and frolic that a pool can provide.

Multiple and exhaustive researches have been done in order to answer the most asked question: “how to make your own solar cover reel?” However before we delve deep into finding the answer to this particular question, we must first understand a few elementary things about pool cover and their respective reels.

A Brief Understanding of Pool Cover and Their Uses

The name pool cover is self-descriptive which means any kind of protection used to shelter the pool as a whole can be deemed as a pool cover. While now we are able to comprehend what is meant by a pool cover, we should definitely understand the primary use of pool covers as well.

Since pools are essentially comprised of water as its primary component, therefore these water bodies are covered mainly because of three reasons:

Maintaining Temperature

We are all well aware of the fact that maintaining the temperature of the water can be a bit tricky and thus be quite a burden on the pockets. 

Both of these problems can be easily solved by the use of a simple pool cover. In fact, several surveys have proven that regular use of a pool cover can perpetually increase the water temperature of the pool by about 11 degrees Celsius or 18 degrees Fahrenheit approximately. 

Keeping the water clean for outdoor pools

Pool cleaning is quite a tedious task. Sieving off dry leaves and dead insects from the water surface of the pool is both time consuming and annoying. The freedom from such annoying tasks can be easily obtained by covering the pool with a pool cover. Moreover, covers also prevent accumulating external dirt or dust in the water thus helping to keep it clean.

Reducing the usage of chemicals 

It is no secret that the main ingredient of pool maintenance is the heavy use of chemicals like chlorine. They are used primarily to keep the water of the pool fresh and healthy. Usage of such chemicals is greatly lessened with the aid of pool covers

Pool Cover Reel: A short summary

Up to this point in the article, the reader has been well articulated the meaning and use of pool covers. However, they have not been well acquainted with the ways in which a physical pool cover is used. This section provides a quick understanding of how a pool covered be made to cover the whole pool.

The use of reels comes in quite effective while covering any pool. The cover sheet (vinyl, plastic, bubble wrap, etc.) is wrapped on a rod. This rod, in turn, is attached to a wheel with a handle. This whole arrangement is integrated nearby to the pool location for ease of use.

The functioning of a pool cover reel

A pool cover reel can work in two ways: manual and automatic.

Manual Pool Cover Reel

The working process of this kind of reel needs manual intervention. As described in the previous section, the handle attached to the wheel needs to operate manually in order to roll in or roll out the sheet to and from the pool.

Automatic Pool Cover Reel

As suggested by the name itself this cover reel operated with the aid of any machines and needs no manual intervention. The handle adjoined to the wheel is attached with a mechanical motor that helps to roll out or roll in the pool cover sheet for the pool.

DIY (do it yourself pool) cover reel VS Ready-Made Pool Cover Reel

As we are in discussion about the variety of pool cover reels, the basic debate always comes in being, which one pool cover reels are better. A short discussion on the pros and cons of both these products would provide a better insight.

DIY also is known as do it yourself pool cover reel

Pros

• These cover reels would be budget-friendly
• These reels can be customized exactly to suit the needs on an individual level thus providing the maximum level of satisfaction

Cons

• Good knowledge of product assembly is required; else, the result can be disastrous.
• Since they are homemade, true craftsmanship will be missing that might take a toll on the durability

Ready-Made Pool Cover Reel

Pros

• Since they are manufactured on an industrial level, the look and finish would be unparalleled
• The product would be sturdy and durable thus making it last for a longer time

Cons

• They might not be the cheapest option and can be a bit expensive
• As they are manufactured in mass quantities, exactly customized copy to suit the individual needs might be a bit difficult to get

Process of assembling a DIY Pool Cover Reel

Since we are discussing primarily the DIY Pool Cover Reel, it is imperative that the process of assembling it is discussed in brief. Preparing a pool cover reel can be quite a simple task.

The key components include

• Wheel – depending on the size of the pool or cover
• Handle – depending on the number or size of the wheel
• Metal Rod – depending on the pool size or cover measurements
• Heavy-Duty Straps – depending on cover or pool measure
• Structural bases
• Screws
• Miscellaneous items of your toolbox

Procedure

• Fix the structural bases firmly on the ground with the aid of brackets or use of reinforced cementing
• On the bases, mount the wheels with the aid of screws
• Once the wheels are mounted, place and fix the rod on the wheel axle, so that it can be rotated on its axis
• Attach the cover to the metal tube with the aid of screws and heavy-duty straps
• Fix the handles on the wheel for easy rotation

Variations

The above procedure described a pool reel that is fixed at a single place. Some variations include movable ones, where the structural bases are equipped with wheels so that cover reel can be moved from one place to another. Such a facility helps in easy storage and long-lasting cover.

Other variations include safety cover reels where the straps are replaced by springs or bungee cords that are usually hooked. Such features help to prevent accidents when the pool is not in use and maintain proper safety measures in the pool area.

There can be variants of the cover types itself. Examples include vinyl, bubble wraps, solar, floating disks, etc. Each cover type fulfills a different purpose; for example heavy as well as solid ones used to provide resistance against wind. Opaque ones are used to preventing algae growth as well as to prevent UV rays. Many other types exist to suit different purposes

Quick Buying Tips

Whether you are buying a readymade pool reel making it all by yourself at home, some basic points fit in for both the categories:

The material of the product

The material of the reel is the primary feature that is considered while getting one. Whether a body is made of aluminum or steel is totally up to the kind of use the reels will be.

Durability

Durability is another feature that dictates the process of getting a pool cover reel. It is just a continuation of the material section, wherein the most durable one would be chosen for building a pool cover reel

Know the rules

Certain areas have their own local rules related to pool and pool covers. Before, getting a reel to make sure all the rules are followed word by word. This practice would prevent any kind of hassles with law enforcement parties

Customization

Another important feature, that helps as a deciding factor is the ability for customization. It is without a doubt that the products that are more customizable tend to attract potential buyers more

Ease of use

All the above features would tend to fail if the actual functioning process is not easy. Therefore, identifying products that provide ease of use should be a higher priority than the other ones

Maintenance materials

The machinery of any kind needs proper maintenance. Since maintenance needs materials, therefore choosing products that require sophisticated maintenance materials that are not readily available is a big no.

Conclusion

In this extensive article, we have covered various contexts related to pool covers and their reels. By this time it would have been easily understood that the above excerpt is just a guideline. However, individual research must always be conducted before getting any kind of pool cover reels.

A well-conducted research and its finding would not only help a single buyer but also would serve as just pointers for other buyers, who are your contacts. It would be all the more helpful if such firsthand researches are uploaded in the form of blogs or content for other buyers all over the world.

The season when you simply like to slide down under the blankets and go back to a deep slumber is approaching soon. Winters make you lazy, and jumping in the swimming pool on a chilly winter day is just next to impossible as the water turns out to be pretty cold during the season. 

But there is avail to it; one can implement a solar water heating system to make the water feasible for a person to swim. After hours of research, we have found out ways in which you can design a DIY solar heating system for your pool using a black hose. 

How to DIY Solar Heating System Pool with a Black Hose

This method is inexpensive and easy, so if you have been wondering about how to heat a swimming pool with a black pipe, here is a quick guide to get going with your DIY pool heating goals:

Decide the Setup Place

Firstly, decide where you are going to install the solar water heating system. One can consider placing them on the top of the roofs because such areas can give the black pipes maximum exposure to the sun rays. This will further help in triggering the heating of the black pipes.

Measure the Distance

Measure the distance between your swimming pools and the place where the solar heating system will be installed. This is mandatory to find out the length of the pipe that will be required for the setup. Further, you can buy the tubes according to the requirements.

Positioning It Right

Now the next step requires you to place the pipes in the area where you have decided to install it. You further need to connect one end of the black pipe to the water pump, and the other end should go down inside the swimming pool.

Arrange the Pipe Properly

Don’t let your pipe be left in clusters, arrange the pipes coiled adequately in a spiral shape. You can also keep a blackboard beneath the spirally rolled pipe on the top of the roof to further escalate the heating effect. Now start the water pump, and you are all ready to heat the swimming pool water using this DIY solar heating method.

Buying Guide

This DIY solar heating system requires minimal investment. You merely need to buy measuring tapes, black hose, and a blackboard that can add to the heating effect. The only thing that you need to take care of is to buy pipes that can manage to push the water upside towards the roof. 

Also, ensure that the pipes that you are purchasing does not have any leaks or kinks as it can make the system ineffective.

Undoubted Benefits of Heating Swimming Pools with Solar Energy

Here are some awesome benefits of getting a DIY solar heating system for your pool:

To enjoy swimming every season

When it is winter, a dive into the swimming pools is just a ‘no-no’. But heating your pool using solar energy can give you an extended season for swimming and get you to courage to jump inside the pools even in the winters.

Energy and cost savior

If you want to get the pool water heated up, then there are many ways to do the same. But choosing the black pipe heating method can help in saving energy. Solar energy comes for free; thus you also get to save your hard-earned money at the same time.

To adhere to the go-green code

By adopting a DIY Solar Pool Heater Black Hose method, you adhere to the go green code. This can be considered as an environment-friendly method that reduces the carbon footprint. Solar energy is undoubtedly the cleanest source of energy and thus not release any harmful emissions that may prove to be dangerous to the environment.

Minimal Maintenance

If you make use of pool heating systems, you can end up investing money for maintenance. But adopting the black hose heating method saves you from the maintenance cost and does not let your money go to waste.

Bottom Line

So this was a quick guide on how you can use a black hose pipe for heating a swimming pool and the undoubted benefits it bestows for a person who has a swimming pool in their backyard.  Winters are soon to come, and if you are someone who loves swimming, get this DIY system quickly installed to enjoy an extended swimming season.

Having a great looking above ground pool only to be spoilt by its surrounding landscape can take away from your investment and reduce the aesthetic beauty of your residential pool.

Keeping the surrounding of your above ground pool clean and aesthetically pleasing can add to the overall look and feel of your above ground pool. Materials like stones, plants, wood, and even rocks can add to the aesthetics and beauty of your pool.

To make your life easier, we have spent several hours researching the best stone for around above ground pools and here are our findings.

The Best Stones To Place Around Your Above Ground Pool

They are several stones that look simply amazing encircling your above ground pool that also offer several unique benefits. We look at some of the most popular choices for stones that can be placed to enhance the landscape around your pool area.

River Jacks

River jacks are rounded stones that have a smooth surface and are comfortable to tread on when walking bare feet. These stones come in an array of beautiful colors that blend in nicely with any landscape or garden. These stones are by far the most popular choice of stones for placing around above ground pools as they are comparatively inexpensive and readily available. 

Brown Landscape Stone

Brown landscape stones are similar to river jacks in the sense that they are also smooth and barefoot-friendly. These stones come in creamy colors and are also a popular choice for homeowners looking to add some style to their existing pool area.

Pure Red Landscape Stone

This form of stone is great if you don’t plan on walking on it with bare feet. The stones look great and compliment most landscaping theme with their reddish tinge that sets them apart from other more common stones. However, these stones can be small and sharp, so its best to place them a distance from your pool to avoid treading on them accidentally.

Steps To Take Before Placing Stones

Before you can have you stones all lined up the way you want around your above ground pool it is important that you first place a layer of landscaping plastic down to prevent weed growth which can severely damage the structural integrity of your pool.

When placing stones make sure that the stones are several inches above the ground and at least a foot or two away from your above ground pool. It is always best to consult with a landscaping or pool service company before placing a layer of stone around your above ground pool.

The Benefits of Stones Apart From Just Aesthetics

These stones offer much more than just a beautiful landscape around your pool. They also offer much in terms of functionality and practicality. Crushed stone acts as a shield preventing your above ground pool from sustaining damage caused by natural elements like water and air. 

The crushed stone layer acts as a barrier that prevents rainwater from seeping underneath the ground near the pool area that can cause damage to the base. It also protects the wall against debris and dirt and allows for faster dissipation of water that prevents oxidation which can lead to rust damage if left unchecked.

What Not To Place Around Your Above Ground Pool

While stones and different materials like plastics and plants can add to the overall beauty of your pool they are some stones, materials, and practices that should be avoided at all costs. 

Placing mulched plant life too close to the pool liner or water area can seem like a great idea but can have severe adverse effects on the integrity and durability of your above ground pool. 

Pool liners are made from cellulose and mulch plantation is known to attract insects like termites and carpenter ants that can eat away your pool liner requiring you to constantly replace it which can be quite expensive. 

Mulch plant life can also get tracked into your pool water that can lead to more maintenance and upkeep which any pool owner can certainly do without. 

Long grass around your above ground pool is also not a good idea as the soil that the grass grows on is generally acidic and can damage the bottom track on your above ground pool over time. Trimming the grass with a weed whacker too close to your pool can also cause accidental damage to your pool wall.

It is also not a good idea to use grey or white stones around above ground pools. These stones are more common in driveways and are generally made from limestone that can corrode the metal liner around your above ground pool. 

These stones are also generally not barefoot friendly and are not as aesthetically desirable as compared to the more popular choices of stones listed above. 

Furthermore, white stones also contain calcium that is notorious for eating away at the metal ring and the aluminum side walls located at the base of your above ground pool. Calcium can eat away at the base of your pool if left unchecked and cause the pool walls to eventually collapse which can be a real disaster.

Alternatives To White Stones

If you are insistent on wanting white stones to compliment your landscape theme a better option would be to use marble chips that can be found in bulk quantities in most big box retail stores. These stones are calcium-free and are much more comfortable to walk on barefoot. 

Conclusion

An above-ground pool is a popular and affordable solution for most residential homeowners but they are still quite expensive. If you are spending that much money you would want the most durability and use out of your pool and using materials like plastic, rocks, and stones can help you do just that.

If you are not a pool or landscaping expert it is always best to consult with the professionals as they are likely to provide the best advice on what stones would look best around your above ground pool and in what manner.

A splash in the swimming pool on a warm balmy afternoon is nothing but blissful. Whether having a lazy swim or contemplating deep thoughts by the still waters, the pleasure a pool inevitably brings cannot be quantified. In the interest of our pleasure, taking care of pools is mandatory.

A plethora of research and studies have been conducted on choosing the best of the pool purifiers in general. However, before we continue further, it is rather impending as to what exactly comprises pool purification as cleaning

What is Pool Purification?

Pool purification also known as pool sanitation is the procedure that ensures multiple methods are procured and followed so that the water condition of the remains healthy and usable. Several revered organizations like the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US Based) have strict dictates on maintaining the water health of pools.

Why is Pool Purification required?

It is actually a rhetorical question on the need and base of pool purification. Contaminated pool water can is not only hazardous to the environment but also has extensive negative effects on the health of those who regularly use the pools. Some of the major types of pool contaminants include:

• Environmental Contaminants like dry leaves, dirt, debris, bird droppings, etc.
• Water Contaminants like a polluted water source, algae, other spores, etc.
• Human-borne contaminants like body fluids, cosmetics, lotion, etc.

The aforementioned contaminants can cause multiple diseases like diarrhea, giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, swimmer’s ear, respiratory issues, and rashes to name some.

Methods of Pool Purification

There are multiple methods to maintain proper pool hygiene. Some of them include:

Individual Hygiene

The hygiene maintenance on a personal level like taking showers before entering the pool and not letting stomach-sick individuals use the pool drastically increases the level of water health.

Filtration

The effective filtration of the pool water from its source and efficient re-circulation helps easy maintenance of the pool health against bacteria and other microorganisms.

Usage of halogen

The most common method of pool cleaning is the use of halogens like chlorine, bromine, etc. These elements react with the dangerous microbes in the pool and disinfect them pretty well. They are usually administered via chlorine or bromine releasing elements in the water body.

Ionization

Releasing ions (especially copper) via the use of low-voltage electricity or harnessing sun rays are also a great way to combat the dangerous microbes in the pool. Also, the oxygen is released that helps to degenerate the hazardous organic compounds via oxidation.

Effects of Chlorines

It is a general knowledge that despite being a good disinfectant, chlorine has some serious side effects. Some of the most common yet serious issues include:

• Skin Problems
• Itchy Eyes
• Asthma and other respiratory issues
• Increased chances of cancer in urinary bladder and rectum
• Cardiovascular Issues

Why Chlorine-Free Sun Shock Purifier Is Better?

As described in the previous sections, these pool purifiers are devoid of chlorine, thus eliminating the ill effects of the gas on the health of the pool-goers.

Moreover, the usage of solar energy and the generation of oxygen in these purifiers also helps the environment to be less polluted.

The added factors of practical maintenance and being budget-friendly make such purifiers’ favorite amongst the pool owners.

How Do These Devices Work?

The sun-shock pool purifiers look like small buoys that can float in a pool. They consist of the below components:

• Copper Electrode
• Solar panels
• Enclosure basket
• Wire brush for cleaning
• Floatation device

We just need to assemble the components as suggested in the manual and the device is ready for use. Now, we need to just float it and enjoy a hassle free clean pool.

Quick Notes before Buying

You need to go through a few points before going to buy the one as per your requirements:

Pool pollutants

We must understand the nature of the pool pollutants and then go for the product.

Local Regulations

Check if the local regulations allow ionization to water bodies.

Maintenance

Make sure you are aware of the maintenance needs of the device before buying one such device.

Conclusion

Thorough research on the device you are buying and understanding your exact needs is necessary before getting this device. Only then would you be able to enjoy a spectacular pool without any hassles.

Are you tired of seeing your swimming pool turning green again? If you love cleanliness, you would always want your pool water to be crystal clear, right? After days of research and trying 10 different methods of pool cleaning, we’ve found the BBB pool method to be the most effective for cleaning all types of swimming pools.

Introducing The BBB Method For Pool Cleaning

BBB standards for bleach, borax and baking soda. It relies on ordinary household cleaning items instead of synthesized chemicals to clean the swimming pool and its water sanitized. 

Most pool owners don’t know that the over-the-counter chemicals sold at the stores by the name “pool cleaners” are actually the same chemical compounds we use at home. Why pay so much extra to buy the supplies which can be bought from a grocery store at a fraction of the cost? The pool stores are just making money by selling products with fancy names to the customers who don’t know much about pool water chemistry. 

Let’s understand what role each of these ingredients plays in cleaning your pool:

#1: Bleach

Bleach contains sodium hypochlorite. It’s the same compound found in chlorine. In the BBB method, bleach will play the role of a sanitizer to wipe away all harmful organisms from your pool. 

The bleach sold at grocery stores is similar to chlorine pool owners usually use. The only difference is that it’s slightly weaker. Two tablespoons of bleach will be perfectly enough to clean 26 gallons of water. 

Don’t worry, bleach won’t make your pool turn yellow or generate clouds in the water. These are all myths. 

#2: Borax

Borax will be used for boosting the pH of the pool water. In case you didn’t know, pH affects the effectiveness of the bleach.

If the water pH is unbalanced, your eyes and skin will itch. Ideally, pH must be between 7.2 and 7.6. With half a teaspoon of borax, you can fix the pH level of the water. Simply sprinkle borax into the skimmer and let it circulate throughout the pool. 

#3: Baking Soda

Baking soda is responsible for increasing the alkalinity of the water. Alkalinity helps maintain the pH level. Once that is in check, the bleach will be able to remove contaminants and harmful bacteria effectively.

If it’s 26 gallons of water, half a teaspoon of baking soda would do the work. 

Things To Know Before Getting Started With The BBB Method

Before you prepare yourself to use the BBB method for cleaning your swimming pool, there are things you need to make yourself familiar with:

• Muriatic Acid

It is a dry acid that is effective in reducing the pH and alkalinity in a safe way. Keep in mind both pH and alkalinity are tied closely. If you lower the alkalinity, the pH reduces automatically. 

If the water pH rises above 7.8 and the alkalinity is greater than 120, you will need to add muriatic acid to reduce them. 

• Test Kit

To know just the right amount of acid required for maintaining the pH and alkalinity, you will need a test kit to perform an acid demand test. Yes, you have guessed it right, it’s mandatory to have a test kit with you.

In fact, you cannot use the BBB method to clean the pool before testing the water. You might need to test the pool water once a week if your pool is large and you use it often.

• Pool Size

The amount of chemicals required is based on gallons of water your pool can hold. Therefore, it’s critical to know the exact size of your pool. Make sure you have accurate measurements. The success of the method depends on it. 

How To Clean Your Pool With The BBB Method?

Okay, we have enough information about the ingredients. Now let’s understand what is the BBB method? In other words, how to clean your swimming pool using this method? 

It is very simple, there is no magic formula involved. You will need bleach, borax and baking soda which are all available at local grocery stores. You literally have to drop these chemicals into the water and nothing else. The goal is to keep the chlorine at the target.  This is done by raising the pH level using borax.

The Essentials

I hear you, the BBB method sounds a little confusing. Simply put, the idea of this method is to keep the pool sanitized by killing all germs and algae. This is done by keeping the pH right and the Chlorine level high enough to kill the stuff filters fail to remove. 

Basically, these are the things that matter:

• Chlorine for sanitizing the water 
• Keeping the pH neutral 

This is achieved through stabilizer and alkalinity. 

Stabilizer (CYA): Stabilizer is a little tricky to handle. It stops the sunlight from destroying the chlorine inside the pool. However, it also slows the way chlorine works. If you don’t add enough stabilizer, the chlorine will disappear within an hour or so under the bright sun. 

On the other hand, if you end up adding too much of it, the chlorine will fail to activate. The recommended level is between 30 and 90 ppm. The chlorine should be 2 ppm or 5 percent of your CYA (whichever is higher). 

Note: The amount of chlorine required is determined by the CYA level. If you don’t know the CYA level, you cannot know how much chlorine is needed. 

Alkalinity (TA): Achieving alkalinity is easy. You just have to add baking soda. It reduces the pH level and hence the bubbles in the water start fading away. When there isn’t enough alkalinity, the pH level fluctuates.  

Water in vinyl and fiberglass pools already has enough alkalinity. Even if it’s a little high, there is nothing to worry about. However, if it’s a concrete pool, the alkalinity must be between 60 to 150 ppm.

The Basic Chemistry 

These are the levels you need to maintain:

• pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8
• CYA should be between 30 and 60 ppm
• Chlorine must be 2 ppm or 5 percent of CYA

Getting Started

You start raising the alkalinity of the water by sprinkling baking soda in the water. It is just a buffer to keep the pH level of the pool stable. Then, you add borax and bleach. 

• Bleach will be used for chlorinating and sanitizing 
• Borax will be used for raising the pH level 
• Muriatic acid will be used for reducing the pH (whenever necessary)
• A stabilizer will be used for making the chlorine last 
• Baking soda is one of those B’s that is rarely needed 

The objective of this method is to keep the pH level balanced and have sufficient chlorine to sanitize the pool. The two things that will make this possible are alkalinity and stabilizer. The safest way of maintaining alkalinity and pH level is to use muriatic acid. This is the only extra ingredient you will need apart from the BBBs.

Benefits Of The BBB Method

Some of you must be wondering why I should clean my pool with the BBB method. These benefits might change your mind:

• It’s highly cost-effective as compared to getting a whole list of chemicals from the pool stores that usually make pool maintenance expensive.
• It does not take much of your time. All you have to do is sprinkle the chemicals into the pool. You just have to add the right proportion.
• Since no harmful chemicals are involved, there are no chances of screwing up.
• It will increase the average life of your pool. 

FAQs About The BBB Pool Method 

Can I Use Other Chemicals Apart From These Three?

When you are sticking to the BBB method, you cannot use any other chemicals. Those pools chemicals and other heavily advertised cleaning products pretty much violate the method. 

The BBB method helps keep your pool clean and increases its life by letting you avoid extra chemicals that make things worse. 

Do I Have To Use Raw Bleach, Borax And Baking Soda?

Not exactly. The BBB method is more about using those cleaning agents that are necessary than just sticking to bleach, borax and baking soda. If you can find calcium hypochlorite at a cheaper price than a bleach, go for it. You simply need sources of these three ingredients. 

Are There Other Chemicals I Should Avoid?

These are some of the pool chemicals that are best to avoid:

• Defoamers
• Oxy-shocks and non-chlorine shocks 
• All dyed and decorated chemicals 

How Often Do I Use The BBB Method For Pool Cleaning?

Once you get the hang of the procedure, you will have to test the pool water 2 times and add the chemicals 2 to 4 times a week. Don’t worry, it will just take 20 minutes. 

The Takeaway 

The BBB method teaches us that we must only use those chemicals that are necessary to keep the pool clean. But along with using these chemicals, you must have a clean pool filter too. 

The BBB method does not eliminate the need of having good pool cleaning equipment. You will still need them for scrubbing and brushing the pool surface.