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Solar Pool Cover

Swimming pools lose energy in a variety of ways, but evaporation is by far the largest source of energy loss. You can significantly reduce pool heating costs by using a pool cover.

A Solar Pool Cover is the least expensive way to keep your pool water warm and extend the length of your swimming season.

One of the lowest cost covers made specifically for swimming pools is the bubble (or solar) cover. Bubble covers are similar to bubble packing material except they use a thicker grade of plastic and have UV inhibitors. The bubbles trap heat from the sun and keep the heat in the pool, keeping the water temperature warm and inviting.

It’s best to use a cover designed specifically for swimming pools. They’re made of special materials, such as UV-stabilized polyethylene, polypropylene, or vinyl. They can be transparent or opaque. Covers can even be light or dark-colored. Vinyl covers consist of a heavier material and has a longer life expectancy than bubble covers. Insulated vinyl covers are also available with a thin layer of flexible insulation sandwiched between two layers of vinyl.

Outdoor pools gain heat from the sun, absorbing 75%–85% of the solar energy striking the pool surface. This is an important contribution to the pool’s heating needs. A pool cover will decrease the solar gain contribution to some extent, depending on what type you use. A transparent bubble cover may reduce pool solar energy absorption by 5%–15%. A completely opaque cover will reduce it by 20%–40%. You need to consider this when selecting a pool cover.

You also need to decide whether you want a manual, semi-automatic, or an automatic pool cover. You can manually pull the cover on and off, fold it, and place it somewhere out of the way. You can also purchase a pool cover reel to help manually roll up the pool cover. The reel, usually on wheels, can be rolled out of the way.

Semi-automatic covers use a motor-driven reel system. They use electrical power to roll and unroll the cover, but usually require someone to pull on the cover when unrolling or guide the cover onto the reel when rolling up the cover. Semi-automatic covers can be built into the pool deck surrounding the pool or can use reels on carts.

Automatic covers have permanently mounted reels that automatically cover and uncover the pool at the push of a button. They’re the most expensive option, but they’re also the most convenient.

Other Pool Cover Benefits

Besides offering energy savings, pool covers also do the following:

Conserve water by reducing the amount of make-up water needed by 30%–50%

Reduce the pool’s chemical consumption by 35%–60%

Reduce cleaning time by keeping dirt and other debris out of the pool.

Source: Energy.gov

[sunsetpools]

Pool Safety: The Do’s & Don'ts of Diving

We all know diving is a fun activity – and it’s super impressive – but did you know it could also result in serious injuries?

To help you know what to and not to do when it comes to diving, here are the do’s and don’ts of diving:

DIVING DO’S

Ensure that the shape and depth of the pool bottom are suitable for diving. The water should be at least five feet deep, and there should be no danger of anyone hitting the sides of the pool.

Put warning signs in areas where the water isn’t deep enough for diving and ensure that they are never obscured, covered or removed.

Practice the proper techniques, such as hand and arm position, and be ready to steer up from the bottom upon entry.

Take diving lessons and encourage other users of your pool to the same.

Plan your dive path and make sure it’s clear of all obstructions.

Conduct your first entry into the pool feet-first to gauge water depth and pool configuration.

Make sure that only one person is using the diving board or diving area at a time.

Understand minimum depth for safe diving, which is at least five feet for young swimmers and more for anyone older.

Keep your dives simple – many backyard pools aren’t designed for “fancy” dives or back dives.

DIVING DON’TS

Don’t allow diving in an aboveground pool, ever. Diving in an aboveground pool is not safe.

Don’t jump in head-first when entering the pool from areas not designated for diving.

Don’t dive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Don’t dive alone.

Don’t allow horseplay on or near diving equipment.

Don’t run and dive or dive across the narrow part of the pool.

Don’t dive from any elevation, such as roofs, walls, fences or balconies.

Don’t dive through pool toys, such as inflatables or inner tubes, as you could misjudge your aim and get injured.

When you follow the proper precautions for diving, you’re sure to enjoy the pool and still impress all your friends!

Source: www.Pentair.com

[sunsetpools]

Top 10 Pool Party Must-Haves!

It's not a party without these essential ingredients for fun. Take your next poolside bash to the next level with these Pro Tips.

The sun is shining and the temperature is just right to start planning your next pool party. But before you grab your suit and take the plunge, make sure you have the best aquatic accessories for an unforgettable fête. Make a splash at your next poolside get-together with this top 10 pool party ideas list.

1. FUN FLOATS: If you’re looking to make your backyard an oasis of social media-worthy moments, then you have to have pool floats and inflatable rafts. From flamingo floats to a donut, pizza and cactus floats, you can mix and match styles to whatever “floats your boat.” Not only are they photo-friendly, but they’re super comfy for lounging while chatting with friends or catching rays. You can also maximize convenience and relaxation with a drink float. These inflatable holders can keep your favorite beverages close by so you can soak up your drink while you soak up the sun.

Also, make sure you have personal floatation devices at the ready. Life vests, water wings, and kickboards are great for kids and inexperienced swimmers.

2. SPEAKERS AND A PLAYLIST: What’s a pool party without a playlist? (Well … it’s still a pool party, but it’s quieter and less fun.) Amp up the entertainment with wireless speakers; there are even waterproof, floating models that allow you to take your tunes into the pool. Bring surround sound to the party grounds by setting up a few speakers in different areas around the pool. This way, whether you are grabbing food, playing yard games or going for a swim, the music will be heard. A playlist has the power to set the tone of the party, so select your songs in advance and let the good times rock ‘n’ roll. When the sun goes down, make sure you party on respectfully and be mindful of your nighttime noise level.

3. POOL DECORATIONS: If you have a theme, don’t be afraid to go all-out with the décor. Decorations can be fun and really elevate your pool party. Colored straws, paper products, garlands, and lanterns can all help keep your party on-theme. Bring the Caribbean to your celebration with tropical accessories like paper drink umbrellas. Consider the time of day, too. If you’re having a night swim, for example, a little lighting can go a long way. Throw some glow sticks into the bottom of the pool or put them inside balloons that float on the pool’s surface for additional light and a funky ambiance. Decorations are important, but having the pool prepped is crucial, so make sure you check your pool chemicals in advance, skim the pool before guests arrive and have extra filters on hand to keep the water clean and ready for fun.

4. POOL PARTY AND LAWN GAMES: Games and activities are a surefire way to liven up any pool party. Plus, guests of all ages can get into the action. Water balloons and squirt gun fights don’t just have to be for the kids. Let your inner-child out for the day, get your hair wet and have fun! Pool games like poolside basketball, beach balls, and mini pool balls are all crowd favorites, too.

Or take a break from the water with lawn games like cornhole, badminton, Spikeball, bocce and more. Make sure you set up these games in advance so that guests know they’re available and don’t have to set them up themselves.

5. BIG TOWELS, COOLING TOWELS, DRY TOWELS … ALL KINDS OF TOWELS: Many guests bring their own towels to parties, but make sure you have plenty of extras just in case. Spreading out an extra-large beach towel or even an outdoor blanket can be extremely inviting and a great way to get groups of people together for some good ol’ fashioned chit-chat. Position it on the grass for comfort or on the edge of the pool for a cooling toe dip. You can even layer up your towels for maximum comfort! If it’s an unbearably hot day, consider grabbing cooling towels. If you’re in a lounge chair, use towel clips to get your towel to lay just right. Less fidgeting in your chair means more time to relax. And finally, make sure you have towel racks, or something that guests can hang their wet towels.

6. COOLERS: If you’re having a pool party and it’s hot outside, you’re probably going to want an ice-cold beverage in your hand, right? Right. Having a cooler is essential for the obvious: keeping your drinks icy cold. But here are some other cool tips to remember: Have at least two coolers — one for adult beverages and one for soda, water, and other drinks. If there will be kids at the party, don’t forget options like juice, too. There are coolers that actually float in the water so you can grab a drink without having to call fives on your float. They’re not just for drinks! No one likes warm watermelon. Eating chilled fruits, veggies, and other snacks after taking a dip in the pool can be beyond satisfying on a hot day. Keep coolers in the shade to help keep the ice from melting faster. Always have more ice than you think you’ll need.

7. SNACKS AND DRINKS: Pruney hands? No problem. Serve up smaller snacks that everyone can eat, no matter what the state of your fingertips. Keep paper towels or beach towels near the food station so guests can dry their hands before diving into the snack pile. Go for frozen fruit pops, veggie sticks, chips and dip, mini crescent dogs, or anything that doesn’t necessarily require a fork and knife. Grilled goodies that are easy to grab, like sliders or fruit and veggie skewers, are also pool party food favorites. You can also bring the pool party fun to the snack bar with themed treats like lifesavers or goldfish served in a fishbowl. And here’s a snack hack for you: cover your snacks with food cover nets to help keep the bugs at bay. 

For thirst-quenchers who don’t like diluted drinks, try this: make ice cubes out of the same type of juice that’s in your juice drink or mixed drink, and your beverage won’t become weakened with water once it melts. You can also color code your drink cups or use a marker to write your name to help keep track of your beverages. And make sure to use plastic dishware near the pool to avoid broken glass (yikes!).

8. INSULATED CUPS: Lounge or play all day with a drink that’s icy cold for hours. Insulated bottles, tumblers, koozies or cups can help ensure your drinks stay as chill as you are. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and prints, so choose one that matches your vibe and you’ll always remember which one’s yours. 

9. UMBRELLAS AND CANOPIES: Though you might have fun in the sun, make sure there’s a shady space for those who like to chill out. Umbrellas are great for smaller spaces or perched in the center of a dining table, while canopies can offer more shade to more people because they come in a variety of sizes. If wind is in the forecast, don’t forget to look into some canopy weight bags. Your guests aren’t the only ones who may need a bit of shade. Set up pop-up tables under your canopy to keep your food out of direct sunlight. Keeping your cooler under shade can also help prevent your ice from melting faster.

10. SUNSCREEN: Everyone should wear it, so make sure it’s readily available. Set up a “sunscreen station” which guests can easily locate and include a variety or SPF options. For a pool party, water-resistant sunscreen may be best. Make sure it’s applied as the label directs. Everyone should wear it, so make sure it’s readily available. Set up a “sunscreen station” which guests can easily locate and include a variety of SPF options. For a pool party, water-resistant sunscreen may be best. Make sure it’s applied as the label directs.

Source: DicksSportingGoods.com 

[sunsetpools]

Stretching For Swimmers

Swimming workouts utilize almost your entire body. In order to prevent injury, stretching is very important. When stretching, you should make sure you cycle through all parts of your body. This guide covers the main stretches that you should use for your arms, back, and legs. For each stretch, hold the position for 30 seconds, and repeat for both sides.

Elbow Pull for Your Arm Pit: In swimming, you’re constantly using the muscles that surround your armpit. Every pull you take — for all four strokes — uses these muscles which include your triceps, lats, and various shoulder muscles. Make sure you stretch them out really well. Here’s how: 1. Place your right hand behind your head, and point your elbow straight up. 2. Take your left hand and place it on your right elbow. 3. Pull your right elbow inward with your left hand. 4. Hold this position. Then switch arms, and repeat.

Wall Press for Your Front Shoulder: The front of your shoulder is always a hard place to stretch. The wall press is a great way to access those hard to reach muscles. Follow these steps for a good wall press: 1. Place your right hand on a wall at shoulder height. Place your palm on the wall so your thumb is facing upward. 2. Slightly bend your right elbow. 3. Twist your body to your left — away from the wall. 4. Hold this position. Then switch arms, and repeat.

Wall Lean for Your Calves: This stretch is great after long kicking sets. After you feel that burning sensation in your calves, wall leans are a great way to loosen them up. Here’s how to do a wall lean: 1. Place your hands on a wall at about shoulder-height. Keep your hands shoulder-width apart. Lean against the wall while facing toward it. 2. Scoot your right foot back as far as it can reach without straining it. 3. Place your right heel on the ground. 4. Keep your right leg straight. 5. Hold this position. Then switch legs and repeat.

Pretzel Stretch for Your Buttocks: Believe it or not, you use your buttocks a lot in swimming. You use it while you kick. You also use it every single time you push off the wall. Think about how many turns you do in every practice! You’ll soon realize how much these muscles are utilized when you begin this pretzel stretch. Follow these steps for a good pretzel stretch: 1. Sit down on the ground. 2. Bend your right leg, and place the sole of your foot flat on the ground. 3. Lift your left leg up, and place your left ankle on your right thigh. 4. Push your left knee away from you. If you’re not feeling the stretch, scoot your right foot in closer to your buttocks. 5. Hold this position. Then switch legs, and repeat.

Butterfly Stretch for Your Inner Thighs: There are a fair amount of groin injuries that occur in swimming: Especially in breaststroke. To help prevent inner thigh and groin injuries, make sure you stretch them out really well. 1. Sit up tall on the floor. 2. Bend your knees and relax your calves against the floor. 3. Press the soles of your feet together. 4. Hold your feet so that they remain touching. For a deeper stretch, press down on your knees.

Model Pose for Your Laterals: Swimmers tend to have very defined laterals for a reason. You are constantly overworking these muscles in practice. The model pose is a fantastic stretch to loosen up your overused laterals. 1. Sit on the floor. 2. Bend your left leg, and place your left foot flat on the ground. 3. Straighten your right leg. 4. Cross your left foot over your right leg. 5. Take your right elbow and press it diagonally against the outside of your left leg. 6. Push against your leg, and twist your torso. 7. Hold this position. Then switch sides and repeat.

Child’s Pose for Your Lower Back & Hips: The child’s pose will feel so good after practice! Your lower back can feel increasingly sore after practice. This stretch does a great job of accessing those lower back and hip muscles. Follow these steps for a good child’s pose: 1. Kneel down so that your whole shin is touching the floor. 2. Touch your legs together. 3. Rest your thighs on your calves. 4. Lean over your thighs so your belly touches your legs. 5. Lay your forehead on the ground. 6. Stretch your arms out in front of you with your palms facing downward.

These stretching techniques are great before or after your swim, especially if you are using your pool for fitness/exercise!

When you’re done with your workout, take just a few minutes to stretch out your muscles. Think about it as a warm-down. Stretching will help you loosen up, and let your body repair for your next workout.

Source: Swim Outlet