The weather is warm, the water is clear and your pool is getting a lot of use out of it. As a recent pool owner, you’re more than excited to experience your first backyard poolside hangout. But don’t forget about the important decisions that come with owning a pool.
Testing the water, cleaning the filter and skimming for leaves are a few things that come in between backyard barbecues. But that’s not all. A pool is a costly investment, so we’ve put together a list of pool upgrades you can try this summer that will save you time and money in the long run.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
You don’t mind at first, but constantly skimming leaves and other debris will get old come August. Robotic pool cleaners do these menial tasks for you. All you have to do is drop them in the water and in one cleaning cycle your pool is sparkling again. Beyond keeping your pool clean, they also add another method of water circulation, so algae have a tougher time sticking. Robotic cleaners are the best pool upgrade option since they have their own motors and pumps, so your existing equipment isn’t strained or overrun.
LED Pool Lights
Why waste your pool at night when you can invest in some quality lights? This pool upgrade is a solid choice to extend the hours you spend in your pool. LED is the best choice, since they’re brighter, environmentally friendly and efficient. They outlast outdated options and use up to 75% less energy than halogen so the investment is well worth your while.
Energy Efficient Pool Pumps
Of course we had to put this on the list! Your standard, single-speed pump consumes more energy than all home appliances combined. Now the modern pool upgrade lets you run the pump at extremely low speeds, and a high speed every now and then if you’re running a fountain or performing maintenance. And EcoPump lets you save up to 90% over traditional pool pumps, for better quality water and longer filtration.
Ultraviolet Disinfection System
You may want to convert to a saltwater pool down the road, but before you invest in a salt chlorinator, consider an ultraviolet disinfection system. This pool upgrade lowers the chlorine level to the same level found in drinking water, so you won’t experience itchy red eyes or irritated skin. A saltwater pool still uses chlorine, but the generator converts its own liquid chlorine, so the main benefit is not constantly buying and transporting chlorine.