The Difference in Pools

Structural Differences

• Major differences exist in the types of pools available on the market. An in-ground pool has a water surface level with or below the ground while an above ground pool is, predictably, built above the ground and requires a ladder or a deck built around it to access the water easily. Differences also surface in the material the pool is made of. In-ground pools can be poured in concrete or can be steel framed and lined with vinyl, much like an above ground pool. The main difference in above ground and in-ground pools is cost and appearance. Above ground pools tend to cost far less while in-ground pools may cost thousands more. You can cut costs by going with an in-ground pool that is prefabricated as a fiberglass insert.

Sanitation

• You have a couple of options when determining how you will sanitize your pool. Sanitation is important because bacteria in the pool water can make swimmers ill and can damage the appearance of the water if it is not maintained. Chlorine is one option for sanitation that is widely used. It is a chemical that not only kills bacteria effectively but also helps break down organic debris. It is available in liquid, tablets of granular form. You might also choose bromine sanitation. Bromine achieves similar results without the odor of chlorine, and "shock" or super chlorination is not necessary with bromine. But bromine is more expensive than chlorine and tends to break down quickly in sunlight. Mineral purification, copper and silver ionization and salt chlorine generation are also alternative ways to sanitize pools.

Filtration

• A pool's filter helps keep the water clean and looking its best. Debris is pumped through the filter, which strains off impurities and returns clean water back to the swimming area. You have different ways to filter pool water. One method is by using a filter cartridge. These cartridges catch very small particles and wash out easily with a regular hose. They can be replaced when they get worn out. Sand is probably the most common filter media. Sand particles strain out impurities, and the filter can be backwashed by the pump system when it becomes too clogged. Diatomaceous earth is an organic material made of the skeletal remains of marine microorganisms that actually removes the smallest particles. Much like sand, it can be backwashed to clean the media.

Water

• Most pools have fresh water, but saltwater is an option. Fresh water pools are less expensive to install, but the saltwater systems have some advantages that many people find preferable. Saltwater pools do not typically burn the eyes like fresh water pools because there is no need to add chlorine, which also reduces chemical odors as well as the cost of pool supplies. Saltwater pools are also less harsh on the skin. A saltwater pool manufactures its own chlorine for sanitation but at much lower levels.