How To Get Ready For National Pool Opening Day

national pool opening day

National Pool Opening Day

There is a national holiday for each date on the calendar and also for every subject under the sun, but National Pool Opening Day is a holiday we can all rally round.

Schedule Your Pool Opening Today

As a pool owner, you understand there’s a lot of things that go into opening your pool. National Pool Opening Day is an amazing reminder to prepare for the summer season!

Test the Water First

Once you peel the winter cap and realize the challenge before you, begin by assessing your pool chemical levels. A good water test kit is important for testing your pool’s chemical balance.

When stocking up for summertime on pool shock and pills, don’t forget to purchase water balance chemicals for pH, alk, and calcium. You might also need an algaecide to control algae. And a water clarifier to remove finer particles out of the water.

Pool equipment

Examine the pool gear, mainly the filter and pump, but also other pool equipment like pool valves, chlorinators, heaters, cleaners, skimmers, ladders, slides and diving boards.

Start looking for any soil, mulch, trees or nearby plants that may get in the way of your equipment. Pool equipment does better in a sunny, dry location and not buried in bushes.

Pool cleaners have wearable components, and generally, require more frequent repairs than other pool equipment. Inspect closely for the cleaner parts that contact the surface, or debris totes or hose components that are worn.

Pool filters, either sand, DE or cartridge will need the filter press replaced at a single point. Sand lasts about 5 decades, DE grids for ten decades, and filter capsules 2-3 years for a good-sized filter. You can prolong the life and improve filtration by using a Pool Filter Cleaner before and after opening your pool.

Pool pumps have electric motors that will fail at some point in time, usually at spring startup, or at the hottest aspect of the summer. When your motor will not turn or trips the breaker, it might be a loose cable, triggered GFCI or it might be an engine that is fried. Pumping problems may be air leaking to the pump, or a clogged impeller, or the water level.

Pool Accessories

Pool Ladders, Slides & Diving Boards possess a lot of bolts that need to be checked for tightness. Notably the step treads, which can loosen over time.

Chlorinators are normally easy to care for, but the chlorinator lid o-ring needs to be lubed often to protect the o-ring from the chlorine.

Pool Heaters

If you have a pool heater, the best spring maintenance you can do is clean out the base of the device to remove any leaves, cobwebs, and anthills. Make sure the air vents and drain holes aren’t blocked in the cabinet. If leaves have collected inside a heat pump, or in addition to a gasoline heater exchanger, remove the heater top to wash out them.

Above-Ground Pools

Above ground, pools will join the hoses or pipes from the wall skimmer to the pool filter and then to the pool pump, and back to the pool return. Open the filter air bleeder, open the lines to be flooded by the valves and fill the pump with water. After being sure that the return and suction valves are available plugs the pump into a grounded electrical socket, and the pool skimmer and wall return aren’t plugged.

Inground Pools

Inground pools equipment reassembly is a bit more complicated, but it begins the same way, by screwing the drain wires back to the pump, heater, filter. Together with the water level up, pool plugs can be pulled out of the skimmer and wall contributes to flooding the lines. Contrary to Above ground pools, inground pumps sit above the water level. Fill the pump with water from a hose or hose, and seal. Open the filter air bleeder, open the return and suction valves, and then turn on the pump. Start-Up with a multiport valve on the ‘Waste’ place is a fantastic way to flush out the skimmer and drain, and it has much less resistance too, great for pumps that have difficulty ‘grabbing prime’.

 

National Pool Opening Day is the last Saturday in April. Make it your annual tradition to join us in welcoming spring by opening your pool! In case the final Saturday is too soon to start your pool, then join in by cleaning off your pool cover and prepping it to open when it’s warm enough. If you open the pool in May, it is the ideal time to examine your pool water.

If you need help opening your pool, contact us today!

10 Ways to Freshen Up Your Backyard for Spring

backyard

10 Ways to Freshen Up Your Backyard for Spring

Spring has arrived and it’s time to bring the indoors out with cozy features. Your backyard is a continuation of your home which showcases your style and personality. Extend your time in the fresh air with outdoor seating areas that feel as cozy as your couch.

Here are some of our favorite tips to freshen up your backyard in time for spring.

Define Your Backyard

Deciding what spaces you need—dining area, cooking area, shady lounging area, play area—and clearly defining them can make a big visual impact on a yard. Your design is reliant on the space of your backyard, but you don’t need a large backyard to have a great outdoor space.

Even in the smallest backyard, you can update your space in a fresh and easy way. Doing this can be as inexpensive as repositioning the furniture you already have. Or reupholstering new fabric on your outdoor lounge and chairs.

Create an Outdoor Living Room

A living room forms a gathering place in your home, so why not have the same outdoors? Outdoor loveseats, chairs, and a coffee table are simple elements that are generally inexpensive.

Whether they’re looking for a place to eat or a comfortable spot to unwind, a mix of seating options will keep everyone happy. When you have a variety of comfortable seating choices, it adds flexibility and openness to your space. A pergola acts as a roof to create a defined space, just as your walls do indoors. With the addition of brick flooring, comfy furniture, and a warm fireplace, you’ll feel right at home.

Effortlessly blend your indoor and outdoor space with an open-air living room. Comfortable seating, an outdoor bar, and floor-length curtains will make space feel like an extension of your home.

Focus on Color

Your backyard is a continuation of your home, so your outdoor design should be too. A coordinating color palette allows your design to flow both indoors and out with accent colors making each space unique.

Create a welcoming outdoor retreat by incorporating accent pillows to your backyard design. Mix and match patterns and colors to perk up your outdoor furniture. Don’t be afraid to go bold, pillows are easy to change.

Add Some Heat

With beautiful views and a custom outdoor space, your deck is the perfect place to enjoy the spring air. Add a free-standing hot tub to stay warm on those chilly nights or enjoy time with family and friends. Or get a grill so you can enjoy some sizzling food in the spring sun.

A fire pit surrounded by comfortable seating creates a great spot to gather with friends and family. There are fire pit designs for every possible taste and preference – from bricks and concrete to metal.

Secluded Paradise

We all need a getaway from time to time. You can create a secluded area that feels warm and cozy in your own backyard. Natural landscaping creates the perfect backdrop for your backyard. You can add a few wicker chairs and a matching end table that mimic the surrounding landscape to enjoy your peaceful retreat for hours.

Plants are a flexible, quick, and budget-friendly way to update your outdoor design each season. Adding vines to a pergola or fence softens the space while adding variety and interest. For a splash of color, consider potted plants that give you the flexibility to replace depending on the season or your color palette.

Utilize fencing.

A fenced-in backyard gives you privacy from street traffic and neighbors. Instead of a solid fence, choose a style that is more open. It will make your backyard seem larger. A lattice fence is perfect for small backyards.

Think Small

Pieces with thin frames and petite bodies make a small space feel roomier. Compact bistro sets are perfect for a garden corner or porch. Built-in benches will maximize seating and storage in minimal space.

Light It Up

Lighting plays a major role in how space feels. So incorporate both task and ambient lighting to create the mood you want and to provide the amount of light you need.

Create Ambience

Now that your backyard is looking like it should, take the extra steps to turn it into a place you will want to spend time in. If you don’t have appropriate garden lighting, there is cheap solar lighting that is easy to install.

A water feature adds good feng shui and if you don’t have appropriate garden furniture, there is attractive plastic garden furniture that is virtually maintenance-free, resistant to the elements, and easy on the pocket.

Also, comfy outdoor living requires shade, so make sure to include a sun umbrella, canopy, or pergola above any seating area.

Have any questions about creating your perfect backyard? Contact the experts here.

The Early Bird Tent Sale Extended

patio

We’ve extended your chance to grab the best deals of the season at Cincinnati Pool & Patio! 

Find 75% off all patio furniture, all clearance items, and scratch-n-dent items April 2nd through April 8th! 

EXTENDED EARLY BIRD TIPS

COMFORT

Comfort is important — very important. You may want steel or wood construction in your patio furniture for stability and longevity, but don’t forget that without some homey comforts like soft, plush cushions, your outdoor furniture will go largely unused. Avoid pancake cushions. You know, those thin, puny little cushions that aren’t plush or even very pliable. Opt for chubby cushions that feel light when you pick them up. Look for cushions with polyester filler, too. The more lightweight and springy the filler is, the more quickly it will dry out after exposure to moisture. That means it will resist mold and mildew and stay comfortable and sweet-smelling longer.

TEXTILES

You can’t grab a pillow from your family room and expect it to adapt to life outside on the patio. Most textiles designed for indoor/outdoor use are made from all-weather materials that repel water or encourage moisture to evaporate quickly by remaining porous.

Fabrics designed for use outdoors are usually fade resistant and UV protected, too. They’ll look good and feel soft and comfortable for at least a couple of seasons. When you’re evaluating fabrics for outdoor furniture, check cushion seams for heavy-duty thread and consistent, even stitches. Choose cushions with vents that encourage airflow and quick drying.

Invest in furniture with cushions that can be unzipped and taken apart for periodic airing, repair or replacement. It’s also a good idea to buy outdoor furniture outfitted with cushions you can turn and flip. This will help them retain their shape, dry more quickly and fade evenly. Acrylics, polyester, treated canvas, and the cotton duck is all comfortable, durable fabrics used in the construction of outdoor furnishings. Look for them in upholstered items, cushions, pillows, curtains, blinds and umbrellas.

CONVENIENCE AND QUALITY

From sloppy welds to cracked casters to amateurish paint finishes, a close inspection will expose that great outdoor furniture bargain for what it is — a bad buy that probably won’t last until next season. There are a couple of important lessons here: It’s easy to think of outdoor furnishings as somewhat less important than the stuff you buy for indoor use. The reverse is often true. What you buy to use outside has to stand up to sun exposure, wind, rain and probably some roughhousing, too. Inspect every piece you’re considering for flaws, especially if the deal sounds too good to be true. This is one area where a higher price is often a good indicator of better quality.

Check out our list of patio furniture here! 

If you have any questions about patio furniture or the sale, contact us here!

Outdoor Fireplaces: Everything You Need To Know

outdoor fireplaces

Outdoor Fireplaces: Everything You Need To Know

During the spring and summer, we like to spend as much time as possible outside. But sometimes the nights and evenings can be too chilly to fully enjoy our backyard and outdoor living space. Fortunately for us, many options cannot only add warmth to those days that “look” warm and inviting, but can also provide hours of family activities and bonding. These options are outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and patio heaters.

Outdoor firepits and propane patio heaters range in style from a simple outdoor fireplace to those that add an elegant accent to an already classy backyard area. Whether you’re looking for a way to enhance your backyard with a cozy fire or to warm up your patio or deck, you can follow these tips on choosing the best outdoor heating solution for your family’s needs.

Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits

There’s nothing like a fire pit to provide countless hours of outdoor fun, family time, and s’ mores! Overall, pool and patio firepits are relatively simple – they allow you to enjoy an open fire in your outdoor living spaces. That being said, there are a few important things to know.

The first thing to consider is what type of fuel you want to use in your fire pit – gas or wood. While wood is the preferred fuel because nothing compares to the smell and sound of a real campfire, some people may just want the heat without the fuss of starting and keeping a fire going.

Second, you need to find the fire pit that best goes along with the rest of your backyard decor. Fire pits come in a variety of different sizes and shapes as well as materials used to build them. As a fire pit fanatic, I recommend looking for a bowl that is built from weather-resistant materials such as copper, stainless steel, or iron. While they may be a bit more expensive, you are getting your money’s worth. The better the fire bowl is built, the longer it will last, and look good too!

Finally, make sure your fire pit has a sturdy cover. While it may seem silly to place a mesh fire screen in the pit while the fire is going, it very well may protect you and your home from jumping sparks like the fire crackles. Also available are off-season covers, to keep your grill clean and dry during times of non-use.

Fire Bowls

This is a good time to explain the difference between a fire pit and fire bowls. Firebowls are usually placed in the corners of pools, or next to a spa. More for accent, less for heat, fire bowls are usually a concave concrete design, filled with river rock. Equipped with a gas line and connected to propane or natural gas source, fire bowls produce a small, adjustable flame. Firepits are a larger affair, not quite a bonfire, but enough to produce some heat and a cooking source.

Outdoor Fireplaces and Patio Heaters

There are many options to consider when shopping around for the perfect patio heater. To start, there are three different types of outdoor patio heaters: propane patio heaters, lamp-style heaters, and infrared heaters.

Propane Patio Heaters

Propane patio heaters are great for backyards and decks. Instead of having to worry about plugging them into an outlet, they are 100% self-sufficient. A propane tank is stored within the base and the heat is completely adjustable. These patio heaters are usually completely metal and are equipped with a safety shut-off – in case the heater ever gets tipped over.

Lamp-Style Patio Heaters

Instead of using propane, Lamp-Style Patio Heaters are powered by 1200 watt halogen light bulbs. All they require is a 120v grounded outlet! Like the propane heaters, they are also equipped with safety shut-offs. That being said, regardless of their height, they can both heat an area up to 12ft diameter – since they are powered by the same halogen bulbs. Lamp-style patio heaters usually consist of a resin body with a steel hood and feature weather-resistant hardware. These very stylish table heaters can add look and a feeling of warmth to your patio or deck.

Infrared Patio Heaters

Infrared patio heaters use infrared waves to directly heat the object or person that they are pointed at. They cost substantially less to operate than propane patio heaters and have no warm-up time. Acting much like an outdoor lamp, they can either be plugged into a 120v grounded outlet. They come in two different varieties: wall-mounted heaters and umbrella-mounted heaters. They require no gas or open flames and since they are permanently installed, you don’t have to worry about storing them when they’re not in use.

Have any questions about outdoor fireplaces? Contact us here!

 

11 Tips for Arranging Patio Furniture

arranging patio furniture

Don’t try arranging patio furniture without reading these tips! Tired of rearranging your furniture over and over again? We’ve put together this list of patio arrangement tips to help you get it right the first time.

11 Tips for Arranging Patio Furniture

No more asking wondering “how do I arrange my patio furniture.” Just make sure you follow these simple rules to create the perfect patio layout.

1. Make it Feel Like You’re at Home

Bring the resort-style feeling to your backyard! Use end tables, side tables, and ottomans to add convenience to your patio. These additional outdoor pieces provide a spot to place loose items, drinks, and snacks.

2. Decide on a Focal Point

Create a focal point that will anchor your outdoor space. This will serve as the primary gathering point and the heart of your patio arrangement. The remaining decor will build off of this area.

3. Accessorize

Don’t be afraid to accessorize with throw pillows, area rugs, greenery, and lighting. Adding in accessories can give your patio the look that people utilize the space.

4. Placement of Outdoor Furniture

Place the longest piece of furniture along the longest wall, facing the focal point. This will add to the area instead of detracting attention. Typically, the longest piece will be a 3 seat sofa or a love seat. Adding several individual chairs will encourage guests to “pull up a chair” and enjoy a good conversation!

5. Find a Purpose for Your Patio

Symmetrical patio furniture arrangements create a formal living space while asymmetrical arrangements are a bit more quirky and have a much more lax, casual feel. Pick which one you intend on creating

6. Consistency vs. Mix-and-Match

When figuring out how you want to arrange your patio, you should decide early on whether you want to have all your furniture from one set, or if you want to mix-n-match your patio sets.

Having your furniture come from one set or color can give your patio a sleek and modern vibe. While mix-n-matching will give your backyard a more rustic and homey feeling.

7. Divide and Conquer

By separating the space into smaller sections, you create a dynamic and functional living area. In this way, you have multiple areas of entertainment instead of one large patio with too much open space. By adding occasional chairs, an outdoor fireplace, or patio heater, you can craft an engaging outdoor living space.

8. Design Like a Traffic Conductor

When deciding on the layout of your patio deck, make sure you direct the flow of traffic in a way that eases congestion. Think about the way that guests will enter and travel through your outdoor space. Is there a clear and unobstructed path to the entrance and exit? Are there areas that will likely become crowded? You should allow 30″-48″ of space for high traffic areas. You can cut this measurement down to 24″ for areas that receive less foot traffic.

9. Organize!

Arranging patio furniture is just one step in the equation, you need to keep it organized as well. You want to keep things tidy just as you do inside the house. Especially if your neighbors can see over your privacy fence. A cluttered patio is one that your guests might not want to sit on.

10. Separate the Outdoor Kitchen

Keep the outdoor kitchen away from your dining area. You want to have some form of separation to differentiate between the two spaces. This also addresses safety concerns associated with the grill. Keep your outdoor kitchen close to the door to make food prep easy.

11. Fill the Perimeter First

On the other hand, if your patio is small, it’s wise to keep your furniture arranged around the perimeter of the space. This opens up more room for you to move through and can visually create the illusion of a bigger space. A fun outdoor rug in the center ties it all together.

Keep in mind that you can always rearrange your patio furniture.
By adjusting with the seasons, you’ll have a new perspective on your furniture that will make you appreciate it and make you feel like it’s a whole new set!

Have any questions about arranging patio furniture or your backyard? Contact us here!

The Early Bird Tent Sale

early bird

Grab the early deals of the season at Cincinnati Pool & Patio’s Early Bird Tent Sale!

Find 75% off all patio furniture, all clearance items, and scratch-n-dent items now through March 25th!

To help you take advantage of this great deal, here are our tips on how to find the best patio furniture for you.

Early Bird Tips

Quality over Convenience

The adage “you get what you pay for” is true for patio furniture. Plastic resin chairs or side tables look great on the shelf and will keep their good looks for a year or two out in the sun. Though, in time they will become brittle and lose their vibrant coloring. The same is true for some wood products and wicker pieces. Shop with care, checking consumer reports and reviews, before making a big purchase.

Think About Storage

Add years to the life of your patio furniture by storing it in a protected location. Such as a garage or basement during the offseason. Even the toughest furniture, such as teak chairs or a wrought-iron settee, will last longer if it is placed in storage when not in use. If your storage space is limited, look for patio furniture that folds or is easily taken apart for compact storage.

Comfort over Style

Take a seat before you buy. Comfortable patio furniture, just like interior furniture, will be used regularly as opposed to uninviting patio furniture, which might have good looks but not-so-good comfort.

Check out our list of patio furniture here! 

If you have any questions about patio furniture or the sale, contact us here!

Chemical Brands You Can Trust

chemical brands

As a pool owner, there are too many chemical brands for you to research, buy, test, and use for you to know which ones are the best for your pool.

That’s why we’ve assembled a list of our favorite pool and spa chemicals to help make your pool maintenance a little easier this pool season.

Chemical Brands

Baquacil

With premium Baquacil pool care products, you can achieve the clarity your pool was designed for. Their chemicals do away with tedious pool care. By enabling you to convert your pool into a chlorine-free, carefree sanctuary in less than 24 hours. The result? Clear, beautiful water that’s gentle on eyes, hair, and skin, not to mention pool surfaces and swimsuits.

The real advantage of the Baquacil brand is the peace of mind all of our products offer thanks to the brand’s dependable, consistent bacteria control. And less time worrying about bacteria means more time to enjoy fun in the water with your family.

Poolife

Leave the complicated decision making at the office and escape to your backyard. Poolife Pool Care Systems include the products you need to have a clean pool all summer long. Your professional Poolife dealer will help you select the system that’s best for your pool and your lifestyle.

Rendezvous Spa

From sanitizers and balancers to algaecides, the Rendézvous Spa Specialties line of products offers everything you need to keep your spa clean and inviting. Designed with you in mind, Rendézvous Spa Specialties features color categorization for quick and easy product identification. This high quality, easy-to-use products that will help take the hassle out of maintaining a spa so you can truly enjoy your investment.

Have any questions about chemicals brands? Contact us here!

pHin and Your Pool

pHin and Your Pool

As a pool owner, it’s difficult to give your pool’s chemical all the attention they need. All of your problems can be solved. The pHin is a blue-tooth enabled machine that constantly monitors the chemicals in your pool and will alert you when they change.

Everything Works Together to Keep Your Water Healthy & Safe!

1. Monitor with the pHin

The pHin monitors your water continuously. Therefore, it knows what the levels of your pool should be.

You’re able to track it through the helpful app while the device live updates any changes there may be.

The days of using testing strips are over!

2. Be Notified

The app alerts you when your water needs attention. Then, you’re sent a notification straight to your phone.

Additionally, the pHin will notify you ASAP when your levels are changing and when you should add more chemicals. You’ll be able to add them to your levels turn your pool water turns unsatisfactory.

3. Add Chemicals

Follow the simple instructions to add chemicals and balance your water. The device breaks down exactly what your pool needs and how much you need to add.

Finally, if you have any question about what chemicals or brands to buy, you can always give us a call.

4. Get Swimming

Keep your pool safe and ready for your family this summer. With the help of pHin, you’ll never have to worry about your pool balance again.

Do you have any questions about the device or your pool’s chemical balance? Contact us here!

The Benefits of an In-Ground Pool

in-ground pool

The Benefits of an In-Ground Pool

Whether your backyard is a clean slate waiting to be turned into an in-ground pool paradise, from in-ground pools to water features, decking and lighting, living spaces and landscape, the choices may seem endless. Therefore, consider these important design elements before creating your masterpiece.

The In-ground Pool

A pool makes a definite statement and, depending on the added touches, begins to set the tone. Additionally, consider a vinyl lining for the following reasons:

Easy installation makes it one of the lowest initial costs of all types of pools. Plus, the material is durable, smooth and inhibits the growth of algae.

The Lighting

Lighting offers both beauty and safety, and it is a vital element in setting your tone. Likewise, from underwater hues to subtle illuminations along walkways and lights filtering through trees and waterfalls, the possibilities are endless.

Water Features

This is the pièce de résistance–the crowning glory. From waterfalls to grottos to diving rocks or unique and inventive slides, this is the place where your imagination soars.

Finally, we are recognized as the leaders in our market for innovation and the use of the latest green technologies and, in the process, save you thousands of dollars in wasted water and energy. Contact us and we will help you create your vision.

3 Chemicals You Need To Open Your Pool

chemicals

3 Chemicals You Need To Open Your Pool

Pool season is almost here and as every pool owner knows, it’s better to be prepared than not. Most people will want to automatically start adding in adjustment chemicals, but this is a mistake.

The best and easiest way to open your pool is to start with a clean and fresh base. Here are the chemicals we recommend using before you open your pool.

Stain and Scale Chemicals

This chemical will prevent scale, rust, and other stains from appearing in your pool. This is a great prep to make sure your pool is clean right from the start.

Algaecide

Algaecide will help remove most of the oxygen from the water, to prevent any algae or other organic material from growing. The mixture should also kill any algae that are already currently in your pool from the winter season.

Chlorine

Last, but not least, you need to add chlorine. To open your pool, you’ll want to add double the amount of chemicals that you would do for a regular shock.

Doubling them will help kill any bacteria, algae, and anything else that was growing over the winter.

Next Steps

Your pool isn’t swim-ready yet, especially after you had just added all of these chemicals.

Give your pool at least 48hrs before you test the water again. Bring your sample to the pool experts, and we can help you decide what you need for your pool.

Contact us here or visit us at our Evendale location.