Pool Care FAQ

How can I be sure to make the right decision when choosing a pool builder?

Referrals can be the most valuable source of information. If a builder gives you a list of only 20 to 30 names you should be concerned. You should call old customers and ask about their experience. Ask if they had any problems and if they did, did the company take care of them? If possible, go and see some of the work that the builder has done in your area. Make sure that they are a member of NSPI (National Spa and Pool Institute) and always check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure all complaints, were handled properly.

What about warranties? Is my investment well protected?

Warranties are very important. You should compare the warranties of every pool builder you speak with. Make sure all warranties are in writing, not verbal. Remember one thing: the warranty is only as good as the company and their reputation. If the builder is not in business for the duration of your pool warranty, then you do not have a warranty.

What if I have a small or difficult yard to work with?

You will be surprised at how a small backyard can have the most innovative design. Good builders can design an enjoyable backyard no matter the size.

Why do cost estimates vary when pools seem to be the same?

The price of a pool is determined by much more than just the size and shape of the pool. Many pool builders do not include some of the most important factors affecting cost in their proposals. Because there are so many factors that go into building a swimming pool, there are many ways to cut corners. Here are some of the ways pool builders may cut corners:

• Craftsmanship
• Quality of materials (smaller pumps, filter, etc.)
• Design
• Underground strength
• Ease of maintenance
• Warranties
• Service
• Groundwater Control
• Pool Elevation

Remember: GOOD WORK IS NEVER CHEAP, AND CHEAP WORK IS NEVER GOOD.

How long does it take to build a swimming pool?

From the day of excavation it should take about 10 working days for the main construction, and then another 4 to 6 weeks for ground settlement and deck installation. Remember though, from the day you sign the contract other things have to happen before the pool can be excavated, such as:

• Financing (if applicable)
• Home owners associations
• Marking and finding utilities
• Permits from your city or county

Permits can sometimes hold up the process, it all depends on what city you live in and the time of year. Ask your Blue Water Pools Staff Designer how long your city normally takes at that time of year.

Will we be required to be home the entire time during construction?

No. There are only a few times that we need you to be home during construction – the day the swimming pool is excavated and the day that the electrician and gas companies are there.

Are there any care free swimming pools?

Most pool companies can build the pool so you only have to spend about 20 minutes a week on maintenance. However, most builders build them so you have to spend about 2 hours a week on maintenance. They feel that price is the only thing that matters and that your time is not valuable. All of the things that make the pool easier to take care of is an option and of course costs more money. Blue Water Pools includes all these things in our pools because we know that you want to spend time in the pool, not working to maintain the pool.

I see advertisements promising pools at very low prices. Is this POSSIBLE?

It is possible to build a pool at a very low price. But most of these “incredible deals” are nothing more than a bait-and-switch tactic to get you to call. You should be aware that to build a pool at a low price, quality will be compromised. The cost of the pool may be cheap, but your time and money spent to upkeep the pool could be 4 to 5 times more if the pool was not built right to begin with. Remember the old adage “YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR.”

How do I backwash my D.E. Filter?

Back washing the D.E. Filter is performed to clean the filter and old DE powder and to add new DE powder to protect the filter. This action needs to be performed when the pressure in the filter rises 10 psi above it's starting point.

Draining Water From Your Pool

To drain water from the pool, turn the pump off and unroll the backwash hose. Set the backwash valve in the waste position and turn the pump on. The water will drain quickly, so keep an eye on the water level.

Pool Safety Tips

Always supervise children around the pool. Never assume everyone around can swim. When in doubt, get out of the pool and call Blue Water Pools to answer any technical questions.

If you are considering the purchase of a new swimming pool there are a few things you should know before getting started. First, you should review with an expert the true cost of ownership of a swimming pool. Ownership includes the up-front cost of building the swimming pool, ongoing maintenance, and any periodic major service that may be needed such as pool pump repair and liner replacement.