Rich Binsacca - The Complete Guide

Repair & Upkeep Made Easy

Rich Binsacca

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA
www.creativepub.com

Maintain Your Pool and Spa

Owning a swimming pool or spa is part of the American Dream of homeownership. Who hasnt envisioned lounging by the pool, splashing in the water on a hot summer day, or enjoying a relaxing soak in a bubbling outdoor tub? Once we attain the goal of owning our own home, the next logical thought is to improve it. Pools and spas often top the wish list.

If you currently own a swimming pool or spa, or are hoping or planning to add one (or both) somewhere in your yard, this book is for you. While there is significant value in the pure pleasures of owning and using a pool or spa, their benefits extend into achieving better fitness and enhancing property value, among others.

In turn, it makes sense to understand the inner workings of a pool and spa and how to maintain them to retain their myriad benefits. Whether you plan to tackle the bulk of the maintenance chores or hire a service technician to take care of some or all of them, being an educated pool or spa owner is a cornerstone for long-lasting enjoyment.

This book encompasses everything pool or spa owners need to gain that knowledge and apply it to their particular circumstances, skill level, and comfort zone. In addition to a comprehensive overview of the different types and styles of pools, spas, and accessories available today, this book provides detailed information about proper cleaning, routine and seasonal maintenance, achieving healthy water quality, and ensuring pool safety. Youll learn about the complete set of equipment for both a pool and spa, from heaters and filters to pumps and skimmers andperhaps most importanttroubleshooting tips for their maintenance and repair.

This introduction provides an overview of what to expect from this book. It also adds some depth to the various (and often combined) benefits of owning a pool and/or spa, the reasons to properly maintain those features, and tips for lowering ongoing operating costs and energy consumption. Theres also a glossary of the basic pool and spa terms youll come across as you read each chapter.

Beyond the basics of defining the differences between an in-ground and an above-ground pool, as well as a spa and hot tub, this chapter illustrates and explains the various materials and methods used to build and finish pools and spas. Youll also gain insight into increasingly popular infinity-edge pools, integrated pools and spas, and indoor facilities.

As with regularly scheduled cleaning, it is essential to the operation and enjoyment of a pool or spa to keep the water clean and chemically balanced. This chapter translates water chemistry into practical terms and tasks, from the chemicals and organic treatments to various delivery systems, so that you can achieve safe and healthy water quality.

This is the stuff most pool and spa owners tackle on their own: the daily, weekly, monthly, and annual routine chores associated with properly keeping a pool or spa clean of debris and other hazards that can hinder its optimal operation and your enjoyment. This chapter shows you the basic set of tools and equipment needed to do the job and offers a handy calendar for cleaning and other fundamental maintenance.

This chapter is the heart of this book, providingin both text and photosthe inner workings of pools and spas. Divided into five subchapters, its an exhaustive treatment that not only covers the equipment set that every pool and spa relies on for its operation, but also the various components and materials of each piece within the set, including basic information about how to maintain and repair them. Included in this section are several fully photographed examples of some fairly advanced projects, such as replacing the element of a spa heater or replacing a leaking spa jet. Even if you never plan to lay a hand on the equipment set, this chapter will give you a solid base of knowledge to work efficiently with a pool or spa professional.

For most pool owners, winterizing and reopening is a necessary rite of seasonal passing and a critical process in protecting and maintaining the value of a pool. In addition to an illustrated, step-by-step guide to winterizing and reopening a pool, this chapter provides tips for the proper care and seasonal storage of outdoor furniture.

Normally, the rule is safety first, but this chapter is placed at the end in hopes it will leave a lasting impression on the importance of keeping your pool and spa, above all else, safe and hazard-free.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 250 children under the age of five drown every year, among thousands of accidents and deaths related to residential swimming pools. This chapter offers a comprehensive approach to pool and spa safety, including the latest regulations and advice from industry trade associations, watch-dog groups, and government agencies.

Glossary of Basic Pool & Spa Terms

In-groundA pool or spa built into the property as a permanent fixture or feature

Above-groundA freestanding pool or spa constructed on the surface of the property, often (but not always) so that it can be removed or placed elsewhere, if necessary.

Hot tubA freestanding, non-jetted, above-ground tub of heated water, primarily for relaxation.