Another benefit out of a swimming pool is that it can be used for fitness and therapeutic activities. However, the price to install a swimming pool at home can be costly that most homeowners more often than not decide against it.

Nowadays there is an inexpensive option to owning swimming pools right at home. Instead of in-ground pools that are permanent fixtures, above ground pools are more flexible and offers cheaper options for the average homeowner.

Above ground pools offer flexibility in terms of the many different shapes and sizes available plus the fact that there are portable pools that can be moved from one place to another. Portable pools are ideal for owners who may have plans of relocating their pool.

Portable pools are popular because of the advantages and benefits to the owner. While it takes a long time to construct permanent pools at home, it only takes a few days or even hours to set up portable pools.

In most cases, installing swimming pools may need the services of a licensed swimming pool contractor. Assembling portable pools may not require special tools and can be done by any skilled do-it-yourself homeowner. In some cases, kits for portable pools do not even require tools at all!

Materials are made of heavy duty material that is designed to withstand hydrostatic pressure plus all the live loads when the pool is in use. Aside from its resistance to physical loading and puncture, materials are usually treated to protect the walls and floors from growing molds and algae. Bracing and other frame materials are made of steel that is protected from rusting or oxidation.

Portable pools are popular nowadays that aside from the usual devices like skimmers, cleaners and heaters, other accessories such as ladders, decking and toys are compatible for use on them.

To make sure that you get the most out of your investment in it, here are a few tips on how to take good care of portable pools.

When choosing a location, make sure that the surface area is level and free from loose rocks. A level surface is important to ensure that water does not spill over the top of the walls. Surface under the pool floor must be clear of loose rocks and other debris to ensure safety of swimmers.

It is also recommended to choose a location away from trees. Falling leaves can be an additional task. Taking this off the to-do list is avoidance of any inconvenience to the pool owner.

The chlorine level of pool water should be properly maintained. Some homeowners use an automatic chlorinator to dispense chlorine tablets at a fixed time interval. The right chemical composition of water helps disinfect your swimming pool.

Keeping a repair kit in storage is just as important as a spare tire for your car. Although portable pools have puncture-resistant liners, accidents can happen and it would be wise to have a repair kit always ready.

Portable pools can give you unlimited hours of fun and enjoyment for less cost. Its versatility adds more value to the investment which makes it an excellent option for the average homeowner.

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Actually, I do get them to do some stuff around the house when they are home… that is in exchange for longer hours in our above-ground swimming pool. But, yes, like any other parent I too crave some quality time with my kids… time that we can “waste” lounging around not worrying about school the following morning or homework or some school project that needed to be turned in; time that we can enjoy doing recreational activities together to get some bonding time going; or time when my 2-year old son can pester his older siblings to his heart’s content (read: time that he won’t me pestering me or my husband).

Yes, summer is such a great time for me and my family because we don’t even have to drag anyone to some remote resort and spend a hefty sum just to enjoy each other’s company.

All we need is water in our above-ground pool and the “inflatables”… pool toys that is. Yes, our pool toys are all we need to make the most out of our pool and summer in general. Come to think of it, we even have some pool toys that do not need to be in the pool just so we could enjoy them. A perfect example is our inflatable pool lounge. While it is meant to be used in the water, you can just as well set it up on the lawn or on a rug in front of the TV and sit on it. No one said it is not possible, right?

Let’s see, what other pool toys do we have? We have an inflatable pool slide, an Aqua hammock, a shooter game, a water wheel and a see-saw rocker. Mind you, those are just the inflatables. We are crazy about pool toys that we already have a collection of some sort.

If you own a pool, whether it be an in-ground or above-ground type, pool toys are an absolute necessity. Well, pumps, filters, chlorinators and pool vacuums are necessities too, but pool toys are the “fun” necessities. Oh, I’m sure you know what I mean.

Swimming in the pool is just half the fun when you have kids. You will need a variety of pool toys to keep the fun going, especially for young kids who are just starting to learn how to swim.

Squirt guns are just the start. Actually, being the old school people that we are, my husband and I thought squirt guns are all there is to pool toys as floaters are to inflatables. Boy, are we so wrong. You can imagine my surprise that there is a see-saw rocker meant to be used in the swimming pool.

Try looking at the many pool toys available on the internet and be pleasantly surprised just like I was. The thing is these pool toys do not really cost that much, compared to bringing the whole family on a Caribbean cruise or an African Safari.

My belief is summer fun doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. As long as your family enjoys spending time together and all of you get to live comfortably because of the wise decisions you make about the things you spend on, then all is well.

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It’s time to think of activities that will pre-occupy the young ones and get them off your beloved space in the couch in front of the TV. Well, I thought I had that covered when we got our very own above-ground swimming pool kit last year.

I guess kids will be kids and being kids they are inclined to want new and exciting stuff to do and play with every time. Maybe once they start looking for jobs and experiencing what it is like to make and keep a budget they will not want a lot of things… Hmmm… wishful thinking. I still have a couple more years before my kids reach that stage. For now I am the one who is supposed to come up with nifty tricks to have fun without breaking the bank.

Since we already have our own pool and my kids enjoy being in the water a lot, I thought I should just look for things to “enhance” their swimming experience. Again, off to the internet I go and of course I found just what I was looking for – an inflatable pool slide.

Yup, an inflatable pool slide is just what it says it is… a slide you can inflate and attach to your pool. No need for metal fabrication or complicated construction processes – an inflatable pool slide is simple, quick and easy to assemble and attach to your pool. What is good about the retailer of the inflatable pool slide I found is that he has products that cater to either an in-ground pool or an above-ground type.

What’s more, he has an expensive inflatable pool slide as well as an inexpensive one! Naturally, I got the one selling for less than $100, but I made sure it had the durability and quality that I wanted. After all I will not risk my kids’ pool safety for the sake of saving a couple of dollars.

Anyway, as I’ve said I got the slightly less expensive inflatable pool slide and the site calls it the “Water Park Slide”. It is made of heavy-gauge inflatable material and comes with a base and a tube where kids slide through. If your above-ground pool comes with a deck, like ours does, this will be perfect.

Needless to say, the water park inflatable pool slide I purchased was an instant hit. What I like about it is that the angle of the inflatable pool slide is not too steep so I am assured my kids will have a soft landing and will not hit the water hard.

I think I got another winner here in the Water Park inflatable pool slide. It is not as expensive as other “permanently” attached pool slides yet it is able to offer the same fun-filled swimming activity that every parent will want for their kids.

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An in ground pool can also be used for fitness activities. It can also enhance the value and overall look of your home. In case you would need to sell your property, it would surely be more attractive to potential buyers because of the added pool feature and aesthetic effect.

Nowadays an in ground pool is no longer limited to rectangular shapes. There are different shapes, depths and sizes that can give your home a distinct look.

Different factors come into play when deciding on building your own in ground pool and these can create an impact of your total cost, from design and installation to operation and maintenance. This is why planning is key to making all the right decisions in building your own in ground pool. It can be quite an investment of time, material and financial resources but it should be rewarding enough that it gives back value to the pool owner.

There are four general classifications of an in ground pool that can suit different needs. These are categorized according to materials used for each type namely concrete, fiberglass, aluminum and vinyl. Let us try to get a better understanding of these types of pools.

Concrete can be shaped in any way a pool owners wants it to be. Since these are typically custom built, cost can be higher than other types. However, homeowners who prefer unique styles that match or enhance their property prefer this option. The versatility and flexibility of concrete makes it a popular option for creative high-end designers and pool owners. Concrete is the choice for those who prefer permanent fixtures.

Fiberglass pools are usually molded into particular shapes that can limit versatility and flexibility of designs. However, its popularity in recent years has driven manufacturers to offer a variety of shapes and sizes. Additional accessories and features may also be added to customize according to preference of the pool owner. Fiberglass is made of smooth reinforced plastic which makes it easy to clean and maintain.

Since fiberglass is made of non-porous material, there is no need to install or apply waterproofing on pool walls and floors. A fiberglass in ground pool can last up 20 years. It can probably last more depending on usage and care.

Aluminum in ground pool kits, on the other hand, offer corrosion resistance and ease of installation.

Lastly, probably the most affordable option for an in ground pool is made of vinyl-lined materials. There are standard kits and in some cases customized vinyl-lined pools available in the market today. Designs, shapes, sizes and colors vary that potential pool owners will find one that matches with their preferences.

Just like fiberglass, vinyl is easy to clean because of its smooth surface. A vinyl-lined in ground pool can last up to 15 years and is relatively inexpensive to replace.

There are just so many options for the potential owner to choose from. A reputable pool professional can offer more sound advice in choosing the right in ground pool for you.

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However, you may also want to look into how much more time you can spend in your swimming pool when water is kept warm for comfort even outside of summer season. Just imagine your swimming season to be almost all year round. If you have invested time and resources in a swimming pool, you might as well get the most out of it.

A pool gas heater can do just that. With more efficient heating systems that can offset rising energy costs, a pool gas heater is an option that does not utilize electricity. Current economics also call for more inexpensive solutions and this is what a pool gas heater can offer to the regular homeowner.

There are two fuel types used in a pool gas heater. Both natural gas and propane perform with optimum efficiency and quick-heating capabilities. Current technological innovations in mechanical engineering have produced more efficient systems that can match up with electric heat pumps. What heat pumps cannot do is heating large volumes of water in shorter period of time. A pool gas heater can heat pool water by as much as 3 degrees Fahrenheit in one hour. This translates to more swimming hours for your family and friends with less time waiting for pool water to heat up.

Between natural gas and propane, operating a natural gas heater costs half as much as a propane heating system. However, you would need to make sure that natural gas is available in your area. In areas where natural gas is not available, propane would be the alternative fuel.

There are different models available in the market classified under pool gas heater. In order to make the right choice, there are some pointers that you may want to consider. Since the primary function is heating, you would need to check your BTU rating requirement.

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit which is a measure of heat needed to raise temperature of your water by one degree Fahrenheit. Higher BTU ratings will heat your pool faster but will cost more so it is also important to determine the right heater size corresponding to the size of your swimming pool.

Efficiency is also an important factor when choosing a pool gas heater. It would be smart to choose a pool gas heater with no less than 85% efficiency rating. Some models are even rated at 95% efficient although these are understandably more expensive than lower efficiency models.

You also have a choice between an indoor and outdoor pool gas heater. Certain models can be installed either way but make sure that outdoor installations are secure from extreme weather conditions. Typically outdoor units are made of weather resistant materials.

A pool gas heater will also need an ignition system. You have a choice between a pilot and an electronic ignition system. It is important to take note that pilot light can use up energy while an electronic ignition system works with one click. This is why electronic ignition systems are more common among homeowners.

Depending on your swimming pool size, usage and personal preferences, you have a variety of choices for heating your pool for an extended swimming season.

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When thinking about such an investment, you would always want to consider the cost, value and benefits for you and your family. Building a swimming pool can be expensive but there are available options that will help you control your costs from installation to operation and maintenance.

An above ground swimming pool does just that as it offers an inexpensive option of owning a pool for less. Unlike an in ground swimming pool, an
is not a permanent fixture that it can be moved from one place to another. This means you can take your above ground swimming pool with you in case you decide to move from one house to another.

Installation of an above ground swimming pool takes only a few hours compared to installing an in ground pool which takes days. There is a variety of pre-fabricated kits available for above ground swimming pool in the market today. Most pool owners would hire a licensed pool contractor to install their above ground swimming pool. This guarantees a more organized set up of their pool. In some cases, even a do-it-yourself homeowner can install an above ground swimming pool by simply reading and following instructions that come with the pool kit.

Whether your above ground swimming pool is hard sided or soft sided, you will need specific equipment and supplies for pool operation and maintenance.

To keep your water in you above ground swimming pool free from dirt and debris, you will need a pump and filter system. The pump pushes water through the filter to catch unwanted particles in your pool water. For different types of pool filters, you can choose among sand, cartridge and diatomaceous earth filters.

In case a pump and filter system is not available a pool cleaner and vacuum can remove dirt from pool water. There are abrasive cleaners that can scrub and sweep dirt and grime from the bottom of the pool.

A pool heater can extend your swimming season by keeping pool water temperature warm and comfortable beyond summer season. In a typical pool heating cycle, water is heated through a heat exchanger as it flows through the pool heating device. Depending on pool usage and personal preference, you can use any of three types of pool heaters: gas-fired, heat pump and solar heater.

To help maintain pool water temperature and reduce heat loss, a pool cover is used. Not only does it keep water temperature at controllable levels, it also helps protect pool water from dirt and debris.

Chlorine dispensers maintain the right balance of pool water chemicals in your above ground swimming pool. Chlorinators sanitize pool water, eliminating harmful bacteria and toxins to make pool water safe for use. An automatic chlorine dispenser is recommended to make sure that chlorine tablets are dispersed at the right time.

With all the basic pool needs provided, the only that is left for you to do is sit back, relax and enjoy your above ground swimming pool.

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For starters, it is wise to buy pool cartridges of good quality. While it may cost more, the cost of expensive cartridges makes up with the value you are getting out of them. I would rather pay more and spend the rest of the time enjoying and relaxing in my swimming pool than add another action item or two to my task list such as cleaning, maintenance and cartridge replacement. Cheaper cartridges may break down easily and further aggravate dirt and debris in your hot tub system due to attrition of filter materials.

At least twice in a season, pool cartridges will need some maintenance cleaning. Since these can be taken off the tub piping system, it is just as easy to replace with a backup cartridge to give you continued enjoyment of your swimming pool. The first step to cleaning pool cartridges is rinsing with a garden hose to remove loose dirt and debris. This should be done as soon as pool cartridges are taken off the system so as not to allow drying of the filter. It would be more difficult to rinse dried dirt especially if water pressure is not too high.

The objective of this first step is not to completely wash off all dirt and stains so using a high pressure hose or spray nozzle is not recommended. It might only push dirt deeper into the filter. Once loose particles are rinsed off, allow the pool cartridges to dry.

Soak pool cartridges in a bucket filled with good quality filter cleaner. You may want to consult with your pool dealer for good filter cleaners. Using acids and other harsh solutions can only do more damage to pool cartridges. Attrition of filter materials can only add to dirt and debris in your swimming pool. Good filter cleaners can remove sticky dirt, oils and other unwanted solutions in your swimming pool.

After soaking in filter cleaner, rinse the filter thoroughly to remove the filter cleaning solution from the filter. This last step will also rinse off loose particles still present in your filter.

Pool cartridges eventually wear down. Once these are soiled, then it is time to replace them. This requirement may take several years granted that filter cartridges are properly maintained. Two cleanings in a season is recommended. You can clean at the beginning of swimming pool season and the next during mid-season. You may also want to do a third cleaning at the end of your swimming pool season.

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Investing in hot tub filters ,for example, to keep the water clean will ensure your continued hot tub enjoyment. Keeping hot tub filters in good condition will also keep your pump and heater from wearing out prematurely, again adding years to the “home spa” that is your hot tub.

Most people I know love to soak and relax in a hot tub but they do not exactly look forward to cleaning it themselves. I would admit I never found cleaning hot tubs and hot tub filters enjoyable either. However, the short term and long term benefits of keeping your hot tub filters in good condition can all add up to more savings on your operating and maintenance costs.

Cleaning hot tub filters every two weeks is recommended. The task is relatively simple using a typical garden hose. Pressure from the water sprayed can take off dirt and debris from hot tub filters. Once the filter is clean from dirt, you can put the filter back in the system and do what you would like to do most… soak and enjoy!

It is also suggested that you keep at least two filters in storage for backup or replacement. You have the option of replacing hot tub filters twice in a year along with changing out water in your hot tub. Extra hot tub filters can also serve as backup while the filter in use is being rinsed and cleaned. This ensures continued enjoyment of your hot tub even while cleaning your filter.

I would not recommend using aggressive chemicals to clean hot tub filters. These can damage your filter and result to more attrition of solid particles, adding more dirt and debris to your hot tub system instead of cleaning it. In case you really want to use cleaning chemicals, consult with a pool professional to make sure that the cleaning chemical you are buying will do more good than harm to hot tub filters.

Improper hot tub maintenance or lack of it can cost you even more. Efficiency reduction of your filtration system will cause overwork of your pump and other mechanical enhancements in your tub. Your pump will wear down at a quicker pace and your utility cost will unnecessarily rise.

It is recommended that you consult with your local pool dealer or a pool professional for advice. Your hot tub needs proper attention to ensure utmost enjoyment. Remember, your hot tub is an investment. Along with this comes the responsibility to protect your investment from damage and premature wear and tear. Following good maintenance practices will help you keep away from more damage and unnecessary costs. All it takes is a little diligence.

With all these in mind, you are ready and equipped with relevant knowledge on hot tub maintenance for maximum soaking pleasure.

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There are basically 4 levels you need to keep an eye on and they are Chlorine, PH, Calcium Hardness and Total Alkalinity. Pool. You can monitor all of these levels with a Water Testing Equipment Kit, or you can use Aquacheck Silver 7-Way Test Strips. Chlorine should be checked daily. PH, Calcium and Alkalinity can be checked weekly. Most kits will tell you what to add to stabilize your water in each of these 4 areas. Make sure you add the right amount of chemicals in the right way to ensure safe and effective use.

To clean the top of the water you will have to use a hand held skimmer. I’m sure most Swimming Pool owners have one of these. Depending on where you live, you will have to clean the top of the water of debris (leaves, bugs, etc.), when needed. We have to skim our Swimming Pool every other day where we live.

Cleaning the bottom of the pool can be done by manually by a hand held Swimming Pool Vacuum. Most people now a days use an Automatic Swimming Pool Cleaner. These pool cleaners either run off of your Pool Pump and Pool Filter, or are self contained, run off of low voltage DC and deposit the debris into their own catch bags. Let your goals and budget determine which one is best suited for you and your Swimming Pool. A quick tip before you vacuum the bottom of your pool is, several hours or preferably overnight, brush the walls of your pool and let the dirt settle to the bottom. That way you can minimize your time spent cleaning the inside of your pool.

Monitor your Pool Filter weekly. Backwash if you have a D.E. or Sand Filter. For Cartridge Type Filters, lots of times you can clean them with a Pool Cartridge Cleaner and a Pool Filter Cleaning Wand. This is very crucial to do this weekly so any algae and bacteria do not build up. If this build-up does happen, you will have to use a shock treatment to your pool.

Follow all the manufacture guidelines with regards to cleaning and maintaining your Swimming Pool. It should only take a couple of hours a week of your time, and you can save money by doing it yourself in the process.

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Now we are looking for all the sales and bargains that we can. We have started coupon clipping once again. We are getting the Sunday Paper again, for all the weekly sales and going online to all the coupon websites to see if any of the manufactures are offering any discounts. We know this is only a temporary situation, as we all know the economy will recover.

Here are some tips that can save you some money. Things that we buy or service’s that we use each and every day.

1. Buy online to save money. Internet Stores are very competitive, and consumers are the ones that save. Amazon is a great website that comes to mind.
2. Purchase Generic medicines instead of name brand. You will save a ton of money.
3. Keep your car tires properly inflated. Under inflated tires only use more fuel and their useful life is reduced because of increased tire wear.
4. And when it is time to buy new tires, purchase them from a Costco, Sam’s Club, or any Wholesale Club that carries them. Much less expensive than dealer or even tire chain.
5. If your employer offers flexible spending accounts, take advantage of them. This allows you to pay certain dental, medical and childcare expenses using pre-tax dollars.
6. Pass on any extended warranties on lower dollar items. That type of insurance is not needed to insure small purchases.
7. Take a look at your Cable bill and eliminate some of your services. Do most of us watch all 500 channels?
8. Take advantage of 0% credit cards. You can save thousands by using zero-balance transfer credit cards. Look for what they might charge you for balance transfer fees though.
9. Do not pay checking account fees. Many banks offer fee checking, and if yours does not, ask. If they refuse, tell them you will take your business elsewhere. This worked for me.
10. Read magazines online or go to your local library to view. I did this and saved a bundle.
11. When it is time to buy a computer or electronic device, buy a factory-refurbished unit. They offer the same warranties as new, and can cost hundreds less
12. Consider VOIP telephones. We have ours through our local cable service and it is one low cost per month. No additional fees or taxes are added on.
13. Close any unused heating/cooling room vents in your house. There is no need to heat or cool any unused spaces.
14. Bring your lunch into work. It is much less expensive than eating out every day, and you can control what you eat and be healthier.
15. Replace your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents. They use 1/3 of the energy and can last up to 7 years. I am in the process of replacing a few each month to help absorb the cost easier.

I’m sure this list can become endless, but this gives you a few ideas where you can save some money on things that we do each and every day.

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