Dolphin Pool & Spa

We offer a wide variety of services including basic maintenance of your pool or spa, pool automation systems, restoration, new pool construction, endless pool, in ground pool, above ground pool, swim spas, new hot tubs, used hot tubs, equipment repairs,...

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What’s trending in 2016 in-ground pool design?

Trend #1: Tanning ledges

What is a tanning ledge?  It’s an area of your pool that has 12″ or less of water.  Tanning ledges are perfect for relaxing in a chaise lounges or they’re great for kids and dogs who don’t want to venture out into deeper water.  Tanning ledges are available in fiberglass, vinyl and concrete in-ground pools.  Ask your sales rep about a tanning ledge for your 2016 project!

Trend #2: Heat/Cool Heat Pumps

Never let the weather control your swimming pool temperature again!  Modern, efficient heat pumps for pools work just like a heat pump for your home.  Some models even offer heat pumps that cool as well as heat the water!  Given how hot North Carolina summers can get, backyard pool temps can easily reach the mid-90s.  But, with a heat/cool pump, you can keep your pool at the perfect temperature.

Who Needs Heat/Cool Heat Pumps? Typically, heat/cool units are very popular with people who have automatic pool covers or with those who have pools exposed to direct sunlight for a large portion of the day.

Ask your sales rep about heat pump manufacturers and options for your 2016 in-ground pool.

Trend #3: Glass Tile

All concrete pools and many fiberglass pools have a six inch wide band of tile along the waterline of the pool.  This is required on concrete pools to prevent staining the surface of the pool.  Waterline tile is added to fiberglass pools for aesthetics, but it is not required because the gelcoat surface of the pool in incredibly durable.

Glass tile is made of small squares or rectangles of colored translucent glass glued together on a 12”x12” sheet.  The sheet is divided in half and applied to the pool.  It is available in a myriad of colors and it’s stunning appearance can really make a big visual difference in your backyard in-ground pool!

Trend #4: Fire Bowls

Fire bowls are a striking feature that’s guaranteed capture everyone’s attention.   At night they can take your backyard ambiance to a whole new level.

Fire bowls are low maintenance and can be easily switched on and off manually or automatically.   They come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Fire features require a lot of planning, so if this is an element you want in your 2016 in-ground pool plan, be sure to ask us about your options.

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Buying a used hot tub without getting burned!

Almost everyone would like to own a hot tub but nobody wants to shell out the big money for one. I love a bargain but all too often I see customers that have bought a used spa from someone's yard sale and end up regretting it.  

Most modern spas are very well built so even a spa that's 10 years old still has lots of life in it. Often they just need some tlc, new cover, clean the cabinet.

Here are some tips to help you find a good spa that you'll enjoy for years.

Never buy a spa that is not in operation. If I look at a spa that is drained and disconnected from power I know it has problems. Have the seller hook it up and fill it. They'll do it if they want the best price for their spa.

Don't be fooled by "I paid $9000 for it 6 years ago" who cares. It's still a six year old spa with no warranty that they overpaid for in the first place. If it's a good size good working condition spa it's worth $2000-$4000 Depending on the spa.

Contact your local pool and spa service professional. This is a must! You're going to need their expertise for spa ownership. If they're like me they have refurbished spas ready to go with a warranty and a great price. Or if you found your gem of a bargain, take it to your spa guy before taking it home. Have them check it over so when it gets to your deck there's no surprises.

You don't always find up and running spas in your price point. Buy a fixer! I do this often. The price should reflect the time and money needed to bring it back to life. It may need $1500 repair but if you bought it for $50 you're doing great. Again, contact your local professional for advice. They know what fixers to steer clear of.

Check your local spa dealers some have used "trade in" spas. Find out which brands of spas are for sale new at those stores. Those will be the brands for sale used in the paper. Check the reviews on those brands. This will give you an idea of which spas are better quality. A better quality new spa makes a better used spa.

Okay, brands I think highly of,

Marquis Spas #1 best spa you can buy! New or used.Catalina, Great Lakes, Viking, Coast Spa, Saratoga spas, Sundance, Jacuzzi, All the Watkins family (Tiger River, Caldera, Hot Springs) Do not let any of the Watkins spas freeze, not repairable!

There's a few. There are hundreds of spa brands out there. 

Ask your local spa service professional they're opinion before you buy.I hope this helps you on your way to spa ownership.Happy Hot Tubing

Jeff Sink

Dolphin Pool & Spa

Harrison, MI 48625

989-422-4954

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We Install Beautiful Fiberglass Pools