Skimmers, drains and inlets

Skimmers - Skimmers are devices that help keep pools clean by skimming the water and capturing any floating debris, such as leaves. Skimmers are also used as an opening for attaching a portable aquatic vacuum. In general, one well located skimmer can keep up to 500 square feet of pool surface clean.

Drains – most pools have a pair of main drains at the bottom, usually located in the deepest point in the pool. Naturally, the debris settled in the lowest area is sucked automatically through the main drains toward the pump then through the filter. At the moment water passes through the pump, it returns to the pool via the inlets. The inlets, concentrate flow, jetting the water into the pool. By doing that, it helps distribute chemicals evenly and mixes heated water with cooler water to provide a uniform temperature.

Pumps

The pump is like the human body’s heart. The purpose of the electric pump in the swimming pool is to circulate the water. generally, a pump needs to be capable to circulate the entire volume of water in the pool at least once every 24 hours. Usually a 1.5 horse power pump is efficient for most of pool kinds.

Filters

The filtration system purpose is to remove the nearly invisible particles that cause water to appear cloudy. A well functioning filter is an essential element in keeping water clarity. There are some options when choosing a filter, there are high rate sand filters, filters filled with pulverized material and cartridge filters which are similar to the air filter in a car. Almost each pool owner uses a cartridge filter.  They can trap particles as small as 6 microns, they are very easy and safe to maintain and require very little water for cleaning.

Heaters

The ideal temperature usually ranges between 78-82 degrees, having a comfortable water temperature is a necessity even in summer time, and the only way to guarantee that warmth is with a heater. Pool heaters come in a number of styles, based on the kind of energy source used, the cost to run these types of heaters also varies. The most popular type of pool heaters is  gas heaters, because of low cost of fuel, convenience, and the ability to heat water quickly. Electric heaters heat water by emitting an electric current that heats the coil, although the price of an electric heater is cheap, the cost of electricity is high.

Housing the equipment

Although the pool equipment is made of plastic and other non corrosive materials, and can be placed out in the open, it is recommended to shield it behind a section of fencing or in a separated shed.

Pool covers

The pool cover keeps debris as well as rain water and snow melt out of the pool. Also, it reduces heat loss from evaporation and heat radiation. Finally, a specially designed pool cover can support the weight of a person who falls on, or walks across it.