Pools, Spas & Hot Tubs: Types, Maintenance, & Safety
By Lisa Hallett Taylor, About.com Guide to Pool & Patio
The world of swimming pools, spas and hot tubs is a far-reaching one, encompassing everything from planning and designing to budgeting and building. Lots of research is involved before buying or building a spa or pool, with so many shapes, sizes, and types from which to choose. Once you join the ranks of pool or spa owner, you've entered into a whole new territory: maintenance, repair, chemicals, equipment and safety. Staying up-to-date with all the pool and spa-related issues and new technology will make your pool-owning experience much more rewarding.
Swimming Pools
Ready to take the plunge into a pool project? Before you get to the fun stuff, like shapes and styles, you need to focus on zoning laws; building, health, and safety codes; and local permits. Then think about your reasons for wanting a pool, along with feasibility, budget and space. Other issues - like energy regulations and drought conditions - also need to be addressed prior to digging that big hole in your yard.
- Thinking of Building a New Swimming Pool or Spa?
- Questions to Ask Yourself Before Diving Into a Swimming Pool Project
- Reasons for Getting a Swimming Pool, Spa or Hot Tub
- Swimming Pool Shapes Gallery
- Inground and Above-Ground Pool Design
- Designing the Ideal Pool for Your Family
- All About Above-Ground Swimming Pools
Spas and Hot Tubs
By joining the ranks of hot tub or spa owners, you're in good company with thousands of others who have found warmth, relaxation, entertainment, socialization, and health benefits. Find out the different types, sizes, and manufacturers through profiles and reviews. There's always more to discover, like hidden costs, heaters, jets, digital control pads, new materials and entertainment features.
Cleaning, Maintenance & Repairs
A private pool or hot tub is a luxury, and keeping it well-maintained and free of algae, scale, and debris is just part of the job for those who want it beautiful and sparkling. If you plan to do it yourself, there's lots to learn, like checking water quality with pH test kits, maintenance during swim season, along with the right way to open and close your pool.
- Opening Your Pool for the Season
- How to Winterize Your Pool or Spa
- DIY Pool & Spa Cleaning & Repairs
- Automatic Cleaners / Vacuums for Ingrounds Pools
- Video: How to Test Pool Water
- The 6 'PLEAs' for Healthy Swimming
- Water Conservation Tips for Swimming Pools & Spas
- How to Inspect for Leaks in Your Pool or Spa
Pool and Spa Safety
Both public and residential pool owners are affected by the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, which -- among other things -- requires that all pools, spas and hot tubs be built or retrofitted with an approved anti-entrapment drain cover. We provide up-to-date coverage of the safety act, laws, and issues, along with the mandatory "layers of protection." Learn about safety products like drain covers, alarms, fencing, and locks. Also: pool education, adult supervision, rules, resources and storm and severe weather safety for your pool and patio.
