Swimming Pool Equipment List

A well-equipped swimming pool requires a range of essential items to ensure safe and enjoyable operation.

The basic equipment list includes the following:

• Pool filter
• Pump
• Skimmer
• Return jets

• Pool vacuum
• Pool brush
• Pool test kit
• Pool chemicals

The following additional accessories can enhance the overall experience and functionality:

• Pool lights
• Pool heaters
• Pool covers

Avoid Issues With Professional Pool Equipment Installation

Proper installation of pool equipment is necessary for optimal performance and longevity. Professional installation services can guarantee that all components are correctly sized, positioned, and connected, minimizing the risk of leaks, inefficient operation, or premature equipment failure.

Whether you need equipment for a new pool or are looking to replace a few components, it's best to seek the services of our experienced technicians. We can also provide valuable guidance on maintenance and troubleshooting, helping you avoid costly repairs or replacements. What’s more, we have knowledge of the best and latest equipment, so we can give you professional advice on the best products for your particular pool type.

Maintaining and Cleaning Pool Equipment

Regular cleaning and maintenance of pool equipment are necessary for preserving water quality and getting the most out of each component. Pool filters should be backwashed or cleaned according to the manufacturer's recommendations, while pumps and skimmers require periodic inspection and cleaning to prevent clogs or buildup. Pool vacuums and brushes are essential for removing debris and algae from the pool surfaces.

Pool Safety Equipment Requirements

Maintaining a safe swimming environment needs to be top of mind. To ensure a secure swimming experience, you'll want to furnish your pool accessory box with safety equipment.

Here are a few required and optional items to add to your shopping list:

• Life rings
• Pool fences or barriers
• Pool alarms
• Safety signage

Protect Your Pool With a Cover

Investing in high-quality pool covers can protect the pool equipment from harsh weather conditions, debris, and potential damage. Covers can also help reduce water evaporation and heat loss, leading to energy savings and lower maintenance costs.

Various cover options are available, including:

• Solid
• Mesh
• Automatic covers

What Are the Best Types of Pool Lights?

Illuminating your pool with lights can make a big difference in its appearance, particularly during the evening. They also improve visibility and safety when you feel like having a nighttime swim, making for a much more enjoyable experience.

Common types of pool lights include:

• Incandescent
• LED
• Fiber-optic lights

Some pool owners mix and match different types of lights to get all the benefits. LED lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting, while fiber-optic lights offer a unique and visually stunning underwater lighting experience.

What Type of Pool Filter Is Best?

The choice of pool filter depends on the pool size, usage, and desired level of maintenance.

Here's a breakdown of the best pool filters:

• Sand filters: These filters are cost-effective and require minimal maintenance but may not provide the highest level of filtration.
• Cartridge filters: These are superior filtration systems but require more frequent cleaning or cartridge replacement.
• Diatomaceous earth (DE) filters: These systems provide exceptional filtration but require regular backwashing and the addition of DE powder.

How Do Pool Testing Strips Work?

Some pool test kits include liquid reagents that are dropped into a sample to test your water, but the majority contain testing strips. These are small strips of paper coated with a specific reagent that reacts to a certain chemical in your pool water.

The manual for your test strips will specify how long and at what depth you need to hold the strip underwater, and then it will supply a colour scale to read your strip. Simply match the colour of the strip to the colour on the scale to see if your pool’s chemicals are either too high, too low, or within an acceptable range.

Depending on the readings, you may need to add specific amounts of a chemical to balance your pool water.

What Do Testing Strips Test for?

Pool testing strips typically test for the following key parameters to make sure your water is balanced and safe for swimming:

• Free chlorine or bromine: Measures the level of sanitizer available in the pool to kill bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.
• pH: Assesses the acidity or alkalinity of the water. The ideal pH range for pool water is usually between 7.2 and 7.8.
• Total alkalinity: Helps to stabilize the pH levels and prevent drastic changes. The recommended range is typically between 80 and 120 ppm (parts per million).
• Cyanuric acid (stabilizer): Measures the amount of stabilizer in the water, which helps protect chlorine from being degraded by sunlight. The ideal range is often between 30 and 50 ppm.
• Total hardness: Indicates the level of calcium and magnesium in the water. Proper levels prevent scaling and corrosion, with the recommended range usually between 200 and 400 ppm.

Some advanced pool testing strips may also test for:

• Total chlorine: Measures both free chlorine and combined chlorine (chloramines), which can indicate the presence of contaminants.
• Combined chlorine: Helps identify chloramines, which are formed when chlorine binds with ammonia and organic matter in the pool.
• Total dissolved solids (TDS): Measures the total amount of dissolved substances in the water, which can affect water clarity and quality.

Single-Speed vs Variable-Speed Pool Pump

Pool pumps are available in single-speed and variable-speed models. Single-speed pumps operate at a constant, undisrupted speed, while variable-speed pumps can adjust their speed based on pool usage and filtration needs.

Variable-speed pumps are more energy-efficient and can significantly reduce operating costs, although they have a higher initial purchase price. Their ability to operate at lower speeds during periods of low demand can result in energy savings compared to traditional single-speed pumps.

Additionally, variable-speed pumps often feature advanced programming options, allowing for customized filtration cycles and optimized performance based on specific pool conditions.

Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences, budget, and your pool’s frequency of use.

Do You Need a Pool Heater?

Pool heaters can stretch out the swimming season and provide comfortable water temperatures, especially in our cooler climate and during the spring and fall. While they offer a more relaxing swimming experience, they're not always required.

Gas heaters and heat pumps are the most common options, with heat pumps being more energy-efficient but requiring a higher upfront investment. Factors like climate, pool size, and desired water temperature will determine the necessity and appropriate type of pool heater.

Gas heaters are known for their nearly instant heating capabilities, making them ideal for quickly raising the water temperature. Heat pumps are more efficient for maintaining a consistent temperature over an extended period.

Additionally, the installation of a pool heater may require specific plumbing and electrical configurations, highlighting the importance of professional installation to ensure safe and optimal operation.

Pool Pumps, Motors, & More!

You have endured a cold, dark winter and buckets of spring rain and finally summer is here for you to enjoy. You have set up the barbecue, invited friends and family over and even decided on the playlists that will accompany your first dip of the season. But not so fast—all of this could be put on hold if your pool’s motor, pump or other essential pieces of equipment are not operating at an optimal level. Don’t waste your summer looking longingly at your out-of-order pool—call Garden City Pools today for an appraisal that will check every part of your pool’s equipment before those prime summer months begin.

Our skilled team of certified technicians will perform an advanced check of all pieces of equipment in your pool and will, if necessary, replace any faulty motors, pumps or filters—ensuring that you don’t miss one pool day of summer sun.

Pool Equipment Upgrades

Advances in pool equipment technology mean that pools are now lasting longer than ever before. The correct equipment will not only save you time and money, but will also improve the quality and life expectancy of the pool you have worked so hard to enjoy. Stay in touch to see what's new that enhances your enjoyment of your pool!