Getting to Know Your Pool

In-ground pools come in all shapes and sizes and can function using only a pump and filter or a more complex and varied assortment of equipment. Regardless of the type of pool you have, there are some basics that apply to all pools. Here is an overview of pools, in general, to help you become more comfortable with your pool.

Pool Size:

Knowing the size of your pool is vital to adding the correct amount of chemicals. To calculate gallonage, start by measuring the length and the width of your pool. All measurements should be in feet.

To calculate the average depth, add the shallow depth to the deep end depth and divide by two.

• For rectangular pools: Length x Width x Average depth x 7.5
• For round pools: Length x Width x Average depth x 5.9
• For oval pools: Length x Width x Average depth x 6.7
• For free-form pools: Longest length x Widest width x Average depth x 5.8

Equipment:

At a minimum, all pools utilize a pump and filter to circulate and clean the water. Although not necessary, it’s common to have a combination of additional equipment to enhance the swimming pool experience.

• Main Pump – circulates the water from the pool to the filter equipment and back to the pool
• Filter – traps dirt, debris and other contaminants so clean water is returned to the pool
• Heater – heats the pool and/or attached spa
• Booster pump – powers an automatic pool cleaner or gives more power to spa jets or water features
• Salt chlorine generator – continuously and automatically makes and delivers chlorine
• Additional pumps – provides dedicated power to a specific water feature like spa returns, waterfall or deck jets
• Automatic cleaner – a robotic device that cleans the floor of the pool on its own (not pictured)
• Lights – illuminates the water in either one or different colors at night (not pictured)
• Automation system – allows you to control the pool equipment using a hand-held remote, smartphone or Amazon’s Alexa (not pictured)