7 Ways to Reduce Your Pool’s Energy Use

Pools Use a Lot of Energy

Most homeowners dream of one day owning a swimming pool. Not only are swimming pools perfect for entertaining guests, but they give you a place to relax after a long day or cool off in the summer heat. On top of all of that, they transform the look of your backyard into something luxurious.

However, many current or potential pool owners don’t think about the amount of energy swimming pools use. Energy conservation is a popular trend across the country, as more and more people are trying to be as environmentally friendly as possible. Plus, reducing your pool’s energy use also helps you save money.

Even though pools consume large amounts of energy, there is still plenty you can do to reduce your pool’s energy use. When it comes to energy consumption, your pool pump uses more than most other appliances, except your air conditioner. So, one way you can limit your pool’s energy consumption is by running your pump less.

If you’re a pool owner who’s looking to be more environmentally friendly, there are plenty of ways you can reduce your pool’s energy use. Mid City Custom Pools has watched as swimming pools have evolved over the years, so we have also picked up more than a few tips and tricks.

1.) Run Your Pool Pump Less/Replace Your Pump

Most pool owners have quickly come to the realization that running your pool filter pump 24/7 is unnecessary and wasteful. There is no need to run your pump all the time. You can run your pump far less (especially in the cooler months) without hurting the water quality or increasing your chemical usage.

Running your pump for six hours a day should result in water that is clean and safe to use but try running it for less than that to see how little you can use your pump while still keeping your water clear and clean.

Additionally, you can also replace your pump. One of the most popular options is a variable-speed pump. You can program these pumps to run at the minimum speed to keep your pool clean. These pumps will adjust their energy consumption to match your pool’s needs at different moments in the maintenance cycle.

2.) Invest in a Pool Cover

A pool cover is one of the best investments any pool owner can make. Pool covers keep out any unwanted debris and contaminants that could disrupt your water chemistry. Additionally, they also keep your pool safe, preventing any accidental fall ins. However, did you know that pool covers can help you save energy?

Pool covers prevent water loss by eliminating the rate at which the water evaporates. On top of that, they also trap heat in your pool, meaning you won’t need to use your pool heater as much to heat the water.

3.) Turn Your Heater Down

Turning down the temperature of your pool heater can help you reduce your pool’s energy use. You should continue to maintain a comfortable temperature for swimmers without overheating the water. The Red Cross recommends a temperature of 78 degrees F for competitive swimming and 81 degrees F for recreational swimming. However, many people keep their pools much warmer, which costs them more energy and money.

While keeping your pool warm might be convenient, raising the pool’s temperature by even one degree can cost 10-30% more in energy costs. No one wants to swim in cold water (nor is it safe). But if you aren’t using your pool much, turn down your heater, then turn it up when you plan on using it more often.

Additionally, since the pool cover already traps heat, the heater won’t have to work nearly as hard to warm up the rest of the pool. So, consider pairing your heater with a pool cover to save even more energy.

4.) Install LED Lights

For years, most swimming pools have had single spotlights along wall surfaces. While useful, these lights don’t illuminate the entire pool. However, in recent years, more and more pool owners have been switching to LED lights for several reasons.

For one, these lights last much longer than others and are much more durable. However, arguably the number one benefit of LED lights is how much energy they save. According to Energy.gov, residential LED lights use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lights. Replacing your lights is a simple way to reduce the energy your swimming pool uses.

5.) Install Windbreaks

Pool owners should also consider the benefits of installing windbreaks when building their swimming pool. These windbreaks not only improve the aesthetics of your backyard but also help in reducing energy use. Some such as berms, walls, fences, or hedges can prove useful in reducing energy consumption.

The goal of these windbreaks is to limit the amount of wind that hits your pool surface. Even a 7 mph gust of wind across the surface of your pool can increase energy consumption by nearly 300%. These windbreaks need to be close to your pool and tall enough to limit the turbulence over the pool surface. They can reduce water loss, heat loss, and much more.

6.) Use Larger Pool Filters

Your filter is one of the most crucial parts of your swimming pool. It helps maintain and keep your pool clean for swimmers. However, you can also utilize your filter to help you cut energy consumption by investing in larger pool filters. These filters have a larger surface area, which allows for more water to flow through them. That means that your pool pump won’t have to work nearly as hard to circulate water.

Not only will this help you reduce energy consumption, but it can also help extend the life of your pool pump.

7.) Rethink Your Cleaning Methods

Automatic pool cleaners are extremely convenient. They help you keep your pool clean without you having to do much work. However, this convenience comes with a price. Many of these cleaners use a lot of energy. Tools such as suction-side cleaners that attach to the suction line of your pool’s plumbing system and pressure-side cleaners that connect to your pool pump may clean your pool efficiently, but they consume a lot of energy.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options to help you reduce the energy your cleaning method uses. Robotic cleaners typically operate on a self-contained filtration system and use low-voltage electricity. These cleaners use far less energy than other cleaners, which can save you hundreds of dollars every year. While the upfront cost is more, they will help you save in the long run.

You can also clean your pool the old-fashioned way, with a brush and vacuum hose. While not as convenient, if saving energy is the goal, there’s no better option.

Contact Mid City Custom Pools

Owning a swimming pool is the dream for many homeowners. It provides you with hours of entertainment, an opportunity to exercise, and a place to relax. While these amenities offer many benefits, they also use a lot of energy. If you are a pool owner and you’re looking to be more cost-efficient and environmentally friendly, there are many things you can do to reduce your pool’s energy use.

If you are a homeowner who is ready to get started on your dream pool, give Mid City Custom Pools a call today. We will work with you to build an energy-efficient pool that matches your expectations.

5 Signs There is a Problem with Your Pool

Keep An Eye Out for Any Signs of Damage

Owning a pool is one of the most exciting things for any homeowner. Not only do swimming pools enhance the aesthetic of your yard, but they also provide a whole host of benefits, such as exercise, fun and entertainment, and a place to relax peacefully. Owning a pool is something many homeowners dream of doing.

However, these amenities are a big commitment. Yes, there is nothing wrong with being excited about finally adding a pool to your yard. But many prospective pool owners underestimate the level of maintenance required to keep up with one. Even though this maintenance is easy to do and takes little time, many people still don’t do it.

When you fail to clean and keep up with your pool, things can go wrong quickly. It is far cheaper to maintain one regularly than to pay for repairs. However, even if you properly keep up with your pool maintenance, things can still go wrong. Always keep an eye out for signs that there is a problem with your pool.

Mid City Custom Pools has been providing the communities of DFW with world-class pools for decades. In that time, we have learned a host of signs that indicate something is wrong with a swimming pool. Today, we will discuss some of the signs that there is a problem with your pool.

1.) Cracked Walls 

Any damage to the structure of your pool means that something is most definitely wrong. These fractures can occur for a host of reasons, from poor construction to erosion and damage. Regardless, if you find any cracks along the walls of your pool or on your pool floor, something is definitely wrong.

Often, these cracks mean that you have a water leakage somewhere in your pool. Not only is this a waste of water, but it also weakens the entire structure. On top of that, it also erodes the soil surrounding the body of your pool. When that occurs, there is a greater chance of it collapsing or caving in, which will completely ruin it. Poor structural design, subpar cement, or insufficient sealing are all potential causes.

2.) Unclean Water

One of the easiest signs to recognize that something is wrong with your pool is unclean water. If you regularly maintain your pool’s water chemistry, yet the water still looks cloudy, dirty, or discolored, there might be a problem with your pool.

If the water is cloudy, that often means the pH in the water is too high. If the water is green, it indicates that green algae is growing in your pool. Foaming is also another issue that can occur, often showing up when there is a buildup of contaminants or overuse of algaecides. Regardless, these all look bad.

If you are positive that you are properly maintaining your pool chemistry, yet the water still looks unclean, there may be an issue with your plumbing. You might have a clog in the pipework, which limits the water flow through pool filters. However, your pipes might be clear, but there may be an issue with your sand filter. It may be blocked and need cleaning or even replacing.

Unclean water could also mean there is something wrong with your pool pump. Your pump circulates your water, which allows it to run through the filter and spread chemicals that clean your water thoroughly. When it’s broken or malfunctioning, the water remains still and uncirculated.

Listen for strange noises from your pool filter and pump. Check to see if either one shuts down at random periods or if they fail to turn on. If you are uncertain what the issue is, contact a professional and let them help.

3.) Scaling and Staining

Another issue that is not quite as apparent as others is scaling. Scales on the pool surfaces and piping often indicate that there is a buildup of calcium carbonate. This buildup usually appears as a residue from precipitating pool water. Calcium carbonate remains suspended in water when your pH balance is too high. It also occurs when your calcium hardness is too high, which leads to a higher than the recommended level of calcium concentration.

Stains are much easier to see than scales. You’re likely to find these stains on the walls and floor of your pool. When metals in the water oxidize, they precipitate out of the water and stain the walls. This oxidation occurs due to chlorination or shocking products.

4.) Consistently Low Water Levels

You will always need to top off the water levels in your pool. That’s just a part of being a pool owner. From evaporation to water splashing out, water levels will naturally decrease over time. However, if you need to refill it with fresh water often, there might be a problem with your pool.

The most likely culprit is a leak. Before you do anything about a leak, you need to find it first. These leaks can come from the plumbing or cracks in the pool walls or floor. Cracks are often harder to identify than leaks in plumbing. In these instances, it’s best to reach out to a pool repair expert for further evaluation.

5.) Broken Lights 

You should know by now that water and electricity do not mix. These two make a dangerous combination. Adding lights to your pool creates a relaxing and creative aesthetic for your yard. However, a broken pool light can spell disaster for pool owners. Broken lights are an easy fix. All you need to do is drain the pool and turn off the electricity. If you don’t have hands-on experience or don’t trust yourself, then reach out to a professional to make sure the light is fixed safely and correctly.

Contact Mid City Custom Pools

Owning a swimming pool can be an exciting investment for any homeowner. Installing one in your yard gives you a place to relax, have fun, exercise, and so much more. However, they also require regular maintenance. If you fail to maintain your pool, many issues can emerge. Always keep an eye out for any signs that there is a problem with your pool. It gives you a chance to fix it before it’s too late.

If you are a homeowner and are interested in building your own swimming pool, give the experienced DFW pool builders at Mid City Custom Pools a call today. We will help you design and create the pool of your dreams.

Pool Trends to Look Out For in 2021

New Pool Trends Emerge Each Year

With 2020 coming to a close, it’s time for us to set our sights on 2021. 2020 has a challenging year for many people, even the expert pool builders at Mid City Custom Pools. The global pandemic impacted our business operations and often led to many delays in pool construction. Regardless, through it all, we were still able to provide our customers with the pools of their dreams.

As is the case with every year, new pool trends emerge among pool builders and homeowners alike. Even with everything going on, 2020 saw its fair share of new and exciting pool trends. These new styles and technologies dictated how pools were built and how they looked.

As we head into 2021, there are several upcoming pool trends to keep an eye on that will help guide pool builders and homeowners in creating new and exciting pools. Mid City Custom Pools has been providing homeowners throughout the DFW area with world-class swimming pools for decades. We pride ourselves on staying in the know when it comes to pool design. If you are a homeowner and are ready to transform your backyard, give us a call today.

Tile Inlay

While people do build swimming pools with the purpose of using them to have fun, relax, or exercise, they still expect their pool to look good. After all, an aesthetically pleasing swimming pool attracts more eyes to it. A carefully thought-out design could be the difference between your pool looking like it belongs in a luxury resort or looking like an oversized bathtub.

2021 appears to be the year where tile inlay becomes wildly popular. Using tile inlay on the wall surfaces of your pool creates a stunning visual for homeowners and their guests. With tile inlay, you can transform your swimming pool into something truly unique, something that refreshes your backyard.

What makes tile inlay even more desirable is the fact that you have a myriad of options to choose from, whether that be color, tile shape, and design.

Polymer Walls

Much like tile inlay, polymer walls are a pool trend that aims to strengthen pool design while offering a unique aesthetic for your outdoor amenity. Polymer walls are made of a non-corrosive material, ensuring that they are strong and sturdy. These walls will not rust, corrode, or dent. They are also much lighter than their steel wall counterparts, meaning they are easier to maneuver during pool construction.

Polymer walls will give your pool a unique look, adding to the elegance of your backyard oasis.

LED Lights

When people think of pool lights, they imagine single spotlights placed on wall surfaces, which hardly illuminate the entire pool. However, these lights have evolved over the years. LED lights continue to grow in popularity, with many people predicting these lights to be one of the most popular pool trends in 2021 and beyond.

These lights give pool owners much more customization than before. You can choose between a host of color options, as well as adjust their brightness. LED lights are also far more durable and use less energy and heat than traditional lights. On top of that, they also have a much cheaper usage cost. Why wouldn’t these lights trend in 2021?!

Lounge Ledges

While no one was expecting 2020 to go the way it did, it caused many people to think about what they can and can’t do at their home. The pandemic forced everyone to stay in their homes and avoid going out unless it was essential. People soon figured out that they lacked a way to relax and decompress. While lounge ledges have always been popular, we expect these additions to see a surge in 2021.

Lounge ledges are small areas on the edge of your pool with very shallow water that typically only reaches your ankles. These ledges usually come with lounge chairs that let you relax, soak up the sun, and still enjoy the cooling effects of water.

If 2020 is any indication, people might be spending more time at home in 2021. Lounge ledges give you a space to experience the lavishness of a resort without needing to leave your home.

Pool Bars

Similar to lounge ledges, pool bars give homeowners a chance to transform their backyard into their own personal oasis. 2020 kept many people in their homes to keep them safe from COVID-19. While it was a stressful year, amenities like swimming pools helped ease the situation.

Pool bars (paired with lounge ledges) can give you the opportunity to create the ultimate staycation that feels like a luxurious resort. Additionally, these pool bars give you the perfect space to entertain guests. We expect pool bars to see an uptick in 2021.

Small Pools

Not everyone has the space to build a large pool. However, as this past year has taught us, many people don’t have too many options at their home to keep them entertained or to help them relax. A pool is the ultimate amenity for relaxation and fun, but many people believe that their yard is too small to fit a pool.

However, it’s a common misconception that you need a big yard to build a swimming pool. Just because your yard isn’t huge doesn’t mean you can’t have one of your own. You only need to carefully and strategically plan how big you want it and where you want to put it.

A pool doesn’t need to be big to reap its benefits. Furthermore, a small swimming pool might look better in your yard than a big one. It’s all about careful planning. But when it comes to 2021 pool trends, keep an eye out for small pools.

Outdoor Living Areas

While not necessarily a pool trend, more and more homeowners want to expand their outdoor living spaces with more entertaining capabilities. We can expect more and more people to build updated and extended outdoor living areas. These spaces often have fully functioning kitchens, comfortable seating, covered dining areas, and more.

Much like the pool bars and lounge ledges, these outdoor living areas give homeowners a place to entertain guests, regardless of the time of year. People want to be able to enjoy luxury without leaving their homes, which is exactly what these outdoor living areas offer.

With every new year comes new pool trends. One reason Mid City Custom Pools continues to be the premier DFW pool builder is our ability to stay up to date on all the upcoming trends in the world of swimming pools. We use this knowledge along with our experience and skills to bring our customers’ dreams to life. Contact Mid City Custom Pools today, and let’s get started on your dream pool.

Winter Pool Maintenance

Pool Maintenance in the Winter is Simple

Unfortunately for many pool owners, swimming pool season has been over for a few months now. Most pool owners have already shut their pool down for the fall and winter months, waiting eagerly for the beginning of pool season next year. However, a big mistake many pool owners make over the winter is not keeping up with their maintenance. Owners should regularly keep up with winter pool maintenance.

While your pool won’t be in use over the fall and winter months, plenty of things can go wrong that can affect its condition in the long run. You don’t want to have to postpone the opening of your pool because of an issue that arose because you failed to keep up with winter pool maintenance, right?

Regular pool maintenance is not difficult or time-consuming, and neither is winter pool maintenance. If you want to keep your pool in the best shape possible for the longest time possible, you must regularly maintain it throughout the winter.

As expert DFW pool builders, Mid City Custom Pools knows what it takes to keep your pool in good condition. That includes winter pool maintenance. For those that currently don’t have a swimming pool of their own, the winter is the perfect time to build one. Give Mid City Custom Pools a call today, and let’s get started on your dream pool!

Maintaining Your Pool Through the Winter

Regardless of if you see snow or not this winter, chances are the weather will be far too cold to enjoy your backyard (unless you have a spa set up). For most pool owners, they have to shut their pools down to protect them from the winter elements. However, shutting it down is just the beginning.

Winter pool maintenance is crucial in ensuring your pool stays in good condition in the long run. Even if you shut down your swimming pool, that doesn’t mean it is safe from all that can go wrong. You must continue to maintain it throughout the winter.

Here are some helpful winter pool maintenance tips to help you through these cold months:

Install a Pool Cover

We have spoken about pool covers plenty of times in the past, but it’s for a good reason. Pool covers are an excellent way to protect your pool from the elements. Winter weather can be all over the place, from wind and rain to heavy snow and ice. Naturally, this weather can blow a host of unwanted debris into your pool. This debris creates an unhygienic environment and can disrupt your pool chemistry. Pool covers keep out leaves and other substances that can breakdown and clog your filter.

Additionally, they limit the amount of water you lose, as well. Evaporation is natural, so water loss in the winter does still happen. Pool covers help limit the amount of work you need to do to maintain your pool when you reopen it in the spring. Remember, if your area gets a lot of snow, clear it off of your pool cover. Most covers cannot withstand that much weight.

Skim Your Pool

Even with a pool cover, unwanted debris can still make its way into your pool. As we just mentioned, this debris can ruin your pool chemistry and clog up your filters, which will be a hassle to deal with in the future. Make a habit of regularly skimming your pool, clearing away any substances that might have built up over time. Don’t put this off for too long. The longer you wait, the more debris will build up.

Monitor Water Levels

As we mentioned before, evaporation is natural. Even during the winter months, you can lose water due to evaporation. While a pool cover can help prevent the amount of water lost, it can’t stop it all. Regularly check to ensure your water level is topped off properly. The appropriate water level will depend on the climate of your area.

If you live in a warmer area that hardly sees freezing temperatures, you can fill your pool to the top. However, if your area experiences harsh winters with freezing temperatures, keep your water level four to six inches below the skimmer. At this point, you should have already winterized your pool and blew out and plugged up the plumbing lines.

Balance Your Water Chemistry 

Even without people coming in and out of your pool, its chemistry can become easily unbalanced. When your chemistry is out of the recommended range, it can wreak havoc on your pool and pool equipment.

Balancing your water chemistry is not a demanding process, but it is vital. These levels should sit around:

• pH: 4 to 7.6
• Alkalinity: 100-150 ppm (parts per million)
• Calcium Hardness: a minimum of 200 ppm
• Free Chlorine: 2 to 4 ppm

You can also add an algaecide to your filtration system (if you kept it connected). If your chlorine levels start to fall, you can use chlorine tablets to maintain these levels.

Inspect Your Equipment

Even though your pool is not in use, dirt, pollen, and other unwanted substances can get into the water. These substances can make their way into your pool equipment and cause many issues. Make a habit of checking your filters, pool pump, heater (if you have one), and any other plumbing.

You want to ensure that each piece of equipment is functioning correctly. If not, it can cost you plenty of money in the future. While checking your equipment, make sure there is no water left over. Freezing water can destroy pipes and other equipment, so you’re going to want to clear out any excess water.

Monitor Freezing Weather

Nothing is worse than going to open your pool in the spring only to find a cracked pipe or a leak in your liner. However, when you have water in your pool, and the temperature drops below freezing, that is a potential risk. To prevent any damage, keep a close eye on the weather, so you can act fast before it drops below freezing.

Set up notifications on your phone to alert you of freezing temperatures. You can even install and set a freeze guard, so when it drops to a specific temperature, it turns on your pump or heater to help prevent freezing.

While many pool owners might not think about it, winter pool maintenance is a vital part of keeping your pool in good condition. Taking the initiative to maintain your pool throughout the winter will not only protect it from damage, but it will also save you time and money when it’s time to reopen.

Installing a Hot Tub for the Winter

Installing a Hot Tub is Much Easier than a Pool

As the year comes to an end, we are swiftly approaching the cold winter months. By now, homeowners have already shut their pools down for the winter. With your pool out of commission for the next few months, what can you do with your backyard and outdoor living space to pass the time? One exciting option is to install a hot tub for the winter!

Hot tubs (also known as spas) are perfect for the wintertime. After all, they give you a chance to enjoy your yard without the worries of freezing. They provide you with a relaxing warmth that lets you enjoy the brisk winter air. While maintaining a hot tub is similar to maintaining a pool, installing one is a different process.

Installing a hot tub is not nearly as extensive or as long a process as building a pool. However, if you are interested in installing a hot tub of your own, there are some things you should be aware of before committing to one.

Hot tubs are the perfect amenity to make the winter more enjoyable. With the help of expert pool builders, you can expect a spa that is built to last and will bring you countless hours of relaxing joy. To get started on your own hot tub, give Mid City Custom Pools a call today.

Installing a Hot Tub

Installing a hot tub is a much simpler process than many realize. Often, people liken the process to that of installing a swimming pool, but they are much different. After all, a swimming pool is a much larger project, so it requires more materials, approvals, and people involved.

In some cases, homeowners want to include a spa as a part of their swimming pool, so our pool builders will install one during the pool building process. For others, they might already have a pool, outdoor living space, or nothing at all and want to add a hot tub anyway.

This process is simple. There are only a few things you need to ensure to make the installation process go smoothly: location, access to your yard, a solid and sturdy foundation, and access to electricity and a garden hose. These are all vital to installing a hot tub.

Location

Before the installation process even begins, you need to decide where you want to install your hot tub. You have likely already chosen a spot in your yard. If not, most builders have individuals who can come to your home and inspect your yard to find the ideal space for your spa.

Many people want privacy, so put your spa out of view of streets or neighboring homes. If you have a small yard or very few secluded areas, you can also hide your hot tub with a gazebo or pergola.

Remember, your spa needs to be in a spot that allows for easy access to an electrical hookup and a garden hose. Also, builders need to be able to get to it easily. They will need to bring the hot tub and other equipment, as well.

Solid Foundation

Once you have your location picked out, it’s time to make sure that the foundation it sits on can hold up. Securing a foundation is different if you want an in-ground hot tub, as opposed to an above ground hot tub.

For in-ground hot tubs, you need the soil to be strong enough to hold your spa but soft enough to excavate. If you wait too long in the winter, the ground might freeze, which makes excavation impossible. However, if it has not frozen, you can dig, but you should remember that winter weather can change quickly and push back the completion date for your spa.

For above-ground hot tubs, you need to secure a strong base to place your spa. Those installing your hot tube will consult with you about your best options. A common choice is concrete because it is sturdy and long-lasting. It is also a popular choice for patios and yard designs. Just make sure the soil under it can support the concrete.

Another option is decks. Since a deck should already be level and is already in your yard, it’s the perfect spot for your hot tub. Someone should inspect it to ensure that it can support a spa. However, depending on the hot tub you choose, a simple level pad of stone might do the trick. Discuss your options with your pool builder.

Electrical and Plumbing

The amount of electricity a hot tub requires differs, ranging from 110V to 240V. For models that require less voltage like 110V (often referred to as “plug-and-play”), all you have to do is plug it into an electrical outlet, and you’re good to go!

For those that require more electricity like 240V, electrical is a little trickier. A certified electrician will need to come and ensure you have enough power for your spa and will run the correct wires to your electrical panel to ensure it works.

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that hot tubs don’t require plumbing, at least above-ground hot tubs. These are self-contained units. All you need to do is fill it with a hose and balance its water chemistry regularly, and it’s ready to use. Naturally, you will need to skim the pool for foreign substances and drain and refill it regularly.

Benefits of a Hot Tub

Owning a hot tub gives you a great amenity to relax and stay warm throughout the winter. However, they also provide a host of other benefits, including:

• Provides relief from certain medical conditions, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia
• Helps ease chronic pain
• Improves cardiovascular health
• Boost your mental health
• Improves your sleep

As you can see, owning a hot tub does so much more than keep you warm on a brisk winter night. Installing a hot tub is a relatively simple process for the benefits it presents. If you are ready to install a hot tub in your yard, give Mid City Custom Pools a call today and let’s get started today.

Pool Fences Save Lives

Pool Fences Prevent Accidental Drowning

Swimming pools are one of the most exciting additions you can make to your home. They offer fun for the home family, a chance to cool off in the summer months, and a place to relax after a long day. Who wouldn’t want a swimming pool? Even with all of these great benefits, swimming pools are not all fun and games.

Anyone thinking of jumping into a pool should be a competent swimmer. If they aren’t, then someone else should be nearby for supervision. Additionally, they should be wearing a lifejacket or other safety gear to keep them from drowning. However, far too often, people suffer from accidental drowning. Often, small children are the victims.

Whether from jumping in the pool when no one is looking or accidentally falling in, drowning is a real danger that all swimming pools present. That is why it is essential to invest in quality pool fences to keep you and your loved ones out of harm’s way. While it might not seem like a quality investment right away, it will more than makeup for itself.

As a premier DFW pool builder, Mid City Custom Pools understands how fun and exciting swimming pools can be. But we also understand the dangers they present. That is why we recommend all pool owners to invest in pool fences. After all, pool fences save lives.

Drowning Statistics

Accidental drowning is a serious threat that comes with owning a pool. While any body of water can lead to drowning, residential pools are often the culprit in many of these cases. While not every case is fatal, many often lead to emergency room visits. Unfortunately, children are often the victims of residential drowning incidents.

To understand the importance of owning a pool fence, here are some essential statistics all pool owners should know:

• In the U.S., an average of 3,500 to 4,000 people drown every year, averaging ten fatal drownings every day.
• An estimated 6,400 pool or spa-related nonfatal drowning injuries that required emergency room treatment occurred every year between 2015 and 2017.
• 1 in 5 people who die in drowning accidents are children under the age of 14.
• Drowning ranks fifth in leading causes of unintentional injury deaths in the U.S.
• Boys younger than 15 are twice as likely to drown than girls.
• For every child that loses their life in one of these accidents, another five receive emergency care for nonfatal injuries.
• Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children between the ages of 1-4.
• 87% of drowning fatalities involving children under the age of 5 happen in home pools or hot tubs.
• 23% of child drownings occur during a family gathering around a pool.
• 74% of reported deaths occurred in residential pools or spas.
• Drowning can occur in as little as 20-60 seconds.

As you can see, drowning is a real threat that all pool owners could face. That is why all pool owners should invest in quality and sturdy pool fences to help protect themselves and their loved ones.

The Importance of Pool Fences

While homeowners build swimming pools to give them and their family something to fun to do at home, many of them don’t immediately think of the risks. Yes, nobody wants to focus on the negatives of anything. However, as the numbers above prove, ignoring these risks could be the difference between life and death.

Arguably one of the best ways to protect you and your loved ones is with pool fences. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), completely isolating all four sides of your pool with a fence reduces the risk of a child drowning by 83%. As you can see, pool fences are a proven way to keep everyone safe.

Here are some more benefits of owning a pool fence:

Improves Safety

While pool fences are not pet- or childproof, they do provide an added level of protection to your pool to prevent accidental drownings. If a parent loses track of a child, a fence provides them with extra time to find and protect their child before tragedy strikes. After all, 77% of children were seen five minutes before someone found them in the pool.

That means the added time a pool fence provides could be the difference between life or death. These fences should be over four feet tall to prevent children from climbing over them.

Plenty of Options

One reason homeowners opt-out of installing pool fences is because it doesn’t match their backyard aesthetic. However, that couldn’t be more wrong. There are plenty of options to choose from when installing your pool. You will definitely find a style that matches the design of your swimming pool and entire yard.

Worth the Investment

The cost of a pool fence depends on a number of factors, from materials used to the size of your pool. While it may seem like the cost of purchasing and installing a pool fence isn’t worth it, that cost is nothing compared to the cost of losing a life. Even something as simple as a mesh fence can save lives.

Gives You Peace of Mind

When you install a pool fence, you can rest easy knowing that you have taken steps to keep your family safe. When you aren’t home, or your kids don’t have parental supervision, you can have peace of mind knowing that they are safe. Most pool fences are self-closing and self-latching, meaning you don’t have to worry about a fence door remaining open. Also, these latches are hard for small children to unlatch, preventing them from entering the pool.

Other Pool Safety Tips

• Teach your children how to swim.
• Make sure all children and poor swimmers have adult supervision.
• Keep safety accessories (lifejackets, rope and float line, ring buoy, etc.) on hand in case of an emergency.
• Invest in a pool cover to avoid accidental fall-ins.
• Get CPR training to be ready in case of an emergency.

Swimming pools are a fun amenity that everyone can enjoy. Whether you want to have fun, cool off, or relax, a swimming pool can do it all. However, with this fun also comes dangers. Drowning is a prevalent threat. You must take the necessary precautions to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Pool fences are one of the most effective ways of doing just that. To learn more about installing a pool fence or if you are ready to start building your own pool, give Mid City Custom Pools a call today.

Common Pool Construction Misconceptions

People Get A Lot Wrong About Pool Construction

Installing a pool is an exciting time for any homeowner. After all, while the process might take some time, the outcome is one that everyone can enjoy. Swimming pools are a welcome and exciting addition to any home. However, before you can enjoy the benefits of being a pool owner, you must first build a pool.

The pool construction process is an arduous one. It’s not something that happens overnight. It takes the work of various individuals and requires numerous permits to ensure it is safe to use. Throughout construction, a host of things can delay the completion date of your project. These are all things many homeowners do not think about when deciding to build a swimming pool.

There are many things that potential pool owners do not realize or understand about pool construction. Even further, they have many pool construction misconceptions that either raise their expectations or lead to confusion or irritation during the installation process.

If you are a homeowner that is considering installing a swimming pool at your home, there are some pool construction misconceptions that you need to identify to make this process smoother for you. If you are ready to start working on your dream project, give the expert DFW pool builders at Mid City Custom Pools a call today.

Misconception: Homeowners Do Not Need to Get Permits.

Whether because homeowners do not know they need to, or they ignore the fact that they do, many homeowners begin building a pool without securing the appropriate permits. While there are several permits that can be acquired by the individuals doing that job (plumbing, electricity, gas, etc.), homeowners need to get approval from their county or city.

Even though there are fees, regulations, and inspections that come with pool permits, they are a necessity. These fees pale in comparison to the fines you will have to pay to your local government for failing to inform them of your pool installation.

In all areas of the country, homeowners must apply for and pay for a permit if they plan on installing a pool deeper than 24 inches.

Misconception: Pool Construction Follows a Strict Timeline.

Every pool builder wants to get homeowners their pools in a specific timeline. While there is a process of building a swimming pool, many things can lead to delays in the completion of the project. All pool builders can give you is an estimated timeline, but not even the most experienced pool builders can avoid some delays.

From weather and soil to unexpected circumstances like the ongoing pandemic, many factors can extend pool construction. What should have been several weeks can turn into several months thanks to many unforeseen factors. Remember, while pool builders follow a process and set a timeline, life has other plans. However, an expert pool builder like the ones at Mid City Custom Pools has the experience and skills to keep construction moving even with these delays.

Misconception: All Pool Builders Require Licensing.

Unfortunately, anyone can build a pool, even homeowners. Because pool builders do not need licensing, many homeowners turn to less than reputable businesses, inexperienced individuals, or even themselves. However, doing so leads to disappointing and often dangerous finished products.

Homeowners turn to these individuals since they are often cheaper. However, what you save in money, you lose in skill, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Chances are you will have to pay more in the future to fix the mistakes of an unlicensed pool builder.

If you are gearing up to build your pool, look for a licensed pool builder with years of experience.

Misconception: Guarantees Always Last.

There are several pool construction misconceptions when it comes to guarantees. In most cases, a pool builder will include a guarantee for every pool they build. However, there are exceptions to these guarantees. First, if a business were to go under or close its doors for any reason, any guarantees that they made would no longer be valid.

Additionally, for many pool builders (including Mid City Custom Pools), our warranty covers the pool structure to remain structurally sound during the time that the original pool owner owns the pool. Once the house (along with the swimming pool) is sold to another owner, the guarantee no longer covers the amenity. To learn more about Mid City Custom Pools’ own warranties, visit our site today.

Misconceptions: Pools are Expensive to Maintain.

A common pool construction misconception is about the pool after it is complete. People often worry about the cost of maintenance throughout the installation process. They believe that maintaining your pool is either too hard, too expensive, or both.

However, that is not the case. If you have the right pool accessories and keep up a regular pool cleaning schedule, maintaining your pool is easy and inexpensive. In fact, if you don’t regularly keep up with your swimming pool, you’ll likely have to pay more to fix it than you would to maintain it. Be sure to ask your pool builder what essential accessories you’ll need.

Owning a pool is an exciting prospect for any homeowner. Not only is it a way to relax and have fun, but you can also use it to stay in shape. Building a pool is a long process, filled with many moving parts. Often, homeowners have many pool construction misconceptions. Fortunately, at Mid City Custom Pools, our team of expert pool builders can answer any and all questions you may have to clear the air about any of your concerns.

What Pool Accessories Should You Have on Standby?

Every Pool Owner Needs Certain Accessories

Swimming pools are one of the best investments you can make. It has many purposes, such as giving you a chance to cool off on hot summer days and allowing you to engage in efficient low-impact exercises. However, while pools are a fun investment, they require a lot of work. You have to be consistent with your upkeep, or your pool may experience serious complications.

Caring for and maintaining your pool is not hard, but it does take some work. There are many things you must stay on top of to ensure that your pool functions well. After all, they are not cheap, so it makes sense to invest time and effort into keeping it in top shape.

In order to do that, there are certain pool accessories that you should keep on standby for whenever you need them. Regardless of if you are a new pool owner or have had one for years, these pool accessories will allow you to fix, clean, or care for your pool whenever you need to.

Nothing is worse than running into an issue, then realizing you do not have the equipment when you need it. As expert pool builders, Mid City Custom Pools understands the importance of having the necessary equipment on hand. Today, we are going to be discussing the essential pool accessories all pool owners should have on standby.

1. ) Skimmer

Even if you do own a pool cover, unwanted debris can still easily find its way into your pool. Water runoff and weather can carry dirt, grime, and other substances into your pool that can cause real damage. A skimmer is one of the best pool accessories to help clear this debris.

A skimmer has a flat net attached to a long pole that helps you reach across your pool without having to get into it. Some poles give you the option to connect interchangeable heads, such as a net or a brush.  A skimmer is one of the first things you should buy for your swimming pool.

2.) Test Strips

Your pool’s chemistry is vital to not only ensuring it functions properly but also to keep all swimmers safe. These chemicals exist to fight off dangerous substances, such as bacteria, that pose a threat to both your pool and swimmers. As more swimmers and substances enter your swimming pool, the more chemicals need to work.

By having testing strips on hand, you can quickly and easily test your pool’s chemistry levels. These strips will let you know what chemicals you need to replace. Just put the strip into your water and compare the colors on the strip with the colors on the chart to figure out what chemicals you need to replace.

These strips test:

• pH
• Alkalinity
• Chlorine
• Calcium hardness
• Bromine
• And more

Test your water at least once a week or after a storm. Also, if you have a pool party with swimmers coming in and out of your pool, test the waters.

3.) Water Balancing Chemicals

While having testing strips is essential, so too is having the necessary chemicals on hand. After all, what good are testing strips if you can’t balance the chemical levels? Once you have your results from a test kit, you are going to need to level out the chemicals to ensure the water is safe for swimmers.

Keep some increasers or decreasers (for pH, alkalinity, calcium, etc.) so that you are ready to balance your swimming pools levels. To go a step further, you can even have some algaecide on hand to help prevent the growth of algae.

Additionally, keeping some pool shock nearby for whenever you need it is always a good idea. While the chlorine in your pool will kill most of the bacteria, pool shock will supercharge this chlorine, killing any remaining bacteria. Shock your pool regularly, roughly once a month.

4.) Pool Brush

Depending on the kind of skimmer you own, you might have to buy a separate pool brush. There are several extendable poles that allow you to change the attachments on the head. If you cannot switch the skimmer net for a brush, you will need to find a separate one.

While a skimmer and the chemistry will clean much of your pool, there are often stains and algae that you will need to scrub. Different pools require different brushes. If you have a concrete, gunite, vinyl, or plaster pool, make sure you have an appropriate brush to ensure you do not cause more harm than good.

5.) Pool Cover

While a pool cover is not essential, it is an excellent investment for every pool owner. After all, pool covers protect a pool from debris carrying in due to water runoff or weather. Plus, they also keep your pool safe during the winter months by preventing the water from freezing.

Not only that, but pool covers also reduce algae growth, prevent water loss, and prevent accidents, such as drowning. They are always a good investment for all pool owners.

6.) Safety Essentials

Swimmer safety should be a priority at every pool, regardless of if it is private or public. Drowning accidents occur at an alarming rate across the country. The American Red Cross states that drowning is the number one cause of death of young children in the United States. Make safety a priority at your pool.

While every child should have proper supervision, there are other ways to keep them safe. Keep multiple lifejackets nearby for all young children and for poor swimmers to use. You can also keep a rope and float line or a ring buoy to help those who are drowning.

Accidents can happen outside of the pool, as well. After all, water splashes out of the pool and onto the deck, which can lead to slips. Keep a first aid kit close to your pool for emergencies. If possible, build a fence around your pool to prevent any accidental falls.

7.) Vacuum

While not necessary, pool vacuums can help you keep your pool as clean as possible. Whether manual or automatic, pool vacuums help you clean corners you typically couldn’t. For those that do not like to vacuum their pool manually, a robotic or automatic vacuum will clean your pool while you are sleeping, at work, or doing other chores.

8.) Pool Floats and Noodles

Pools provide homeowners with an excellent chance to relax and have fun. Invest in some pool floats and noodles to give children something to play with to give you something to relax on while you swim. While these are not essential, what fun would having a pool be without some pool toys?

Being a pool owner is exciting, but it is also a lot of work. After all, a lot of things must be maintained to ensure it is safe for everyone to enjoy. Regardless of if you are a new pool owner or have had one for years, there are several pool accessories you should have.

If you are not a pool owner but want to be one, give Mid City Custom Pools a call today and let our expert pool builders get started on your dream pool.

Soil and Pool Construction

Certain Soil Types Can Delay Your Pool Construction

Very few things are as exciting as starting construction on a brand-new pool. Not only does it transform the aesthetic of your backyard, but it also gives you a place to relax, cool off, and have fun. Swimming pools are a welcome addition to virtually all homes. However, before you can enjoy the benefits of this new amenity, you must first begin pool construction.

Pool construction is a complicated process that involves many people and pieces. What could take six months for someone a couple of blocks away may take you 11 months. There are many variables that pool builders must take into consideration when installing a pool. From weather to the size of the project, many factors can delay the process of pool construction.

One of the least conspicuous variables in pool installation is soil. However, it plays a massive role in construction. After all, your pool sits in the ground. It is what pool builders must excavate to make room for your pool.

There are several components of soil that can delay your installation. Mid City Custom Pools has years of experience creating custom pools for countless homeowners. We have dealt with our fair share of soil issues, and we know what to do to avoid them or work around them. Contact Mid City Custom Pools today to get started on your dream pool.

What are the Components of Soil?

Many people often view soil as just one thing: dirt. However, it is so much more. It contains many different components that all affect pool construction in their own way. The amount of each also varies from location to location. Even houses across the street from each other may differ in soil composition.

Some of the most common components include:

• Salts: Although most commonly found in seaside locations, salt can be found in some dirt further inland. These salts can speed up the oxidation process of metal components your project needs. They can impact concrete, as well.
• Fill: Fill dirt is used to fill holes in the ground or create mounds or hills. It contains broken down rocks, sand, and clay, possessing little fertility or organic matter for plants to grow.
• Clay: Out of all soils, clay has the smallest particle size. Its most noticeable factor is its expansiveness, which means it swells when it comes in contact with moisture.
• Sand/Gravel: Sand and gravel have the largest particle size, making them the best for drainage.
• Silt: Silt sits between clay and sand in size and characteristics and is usually not expansive and drains water better than clay but not sand.

These are just a few of the many components in soil. Each has different characteristics that impact pool construction.

Important Factors

When talking about soil composition, there are specific characteristics that you should know: expansiveness and density. Each plays a significant role in ensuring your pool is secure.

• Expansiveness: Expansiveness relates to how much soil expands when it comes in contact with water. This soil absorbs water, increasing in volume. When it expands, it can put pressure on whatever structure is near or in it, causing damage. Pools are no exception. Cracks and leaks are frequent damage done by expansive soil. The small particle size of clay draws moisture between the particles, pushing the particles apart.
• Density: Density is crucial to the sturdiness of your pool. Density measures how well the ground bears weight. Soil with high density can bear the weight of structures on top of it. Those with low density are more prone to collapse and cave in. If the soil compresses, then your pool is more likely to settle or crack. Sand, gravel, and salt all have low density.

Each of these factors must be taken into consideration when building your pool. No two environments are the same, which means your soil composition will likely differ from your neighbors.

Solving Soil Issues

Even though soil can cause plenty of problems and delays, expert pool builders like the ones at Mid City Custom Pools know how to work with these conditions. Whether soil is highly expansive or not very dense, we have the experience to deal with them.

Clay Soil:

As we have already stated, clay is an expansive soil. It will expand when absorbing water and contracts when it dries out. Pool builders may over-excavate and replace expansive soil with more suitable soil that will support a pool better. They may also create deep foundations that bear on deeper, more stable ground, such as bedrock.

A geotechnical engineer will recommend how far down to over-excavate to remove expansive soil to replace with fill dirt with the necessary properties that limit expansion and can support the pool’s structure.

Sandy Soil:

Sandy soil has a nasty habit of shifting. It easily collapses and caves in, which requires more excavation, pushes the completion date back further. Often, builders will create frames throughout the dig site to reinforce the sides and keep it from collapsing.

Sand can also interfere with the application of gunite. Gunite requires a vertical cut so that it can stick directly to the ground. However, because sand collapses and degrades easier, builders must use different methods, such as creating a formwork or buttress system, to apply gunite.

Rocky Soil:

Rocky soil, such as gravel, should not be too much of an issue. It is easy to excavate and usually can support enough weight. However, when you dig deeper and find boulders or even bedrock, you have a problem.

Builders must remove these rocks, which can take time. Often, jackhammers and other heavy machinery must be used to break up a rock bed and remove it. Then, builders will likely need to bring in fill dirt to fill the remaining space left from the rocks.

Is Soil Analysis Necessary?

A soil analysis will give your pool builders a better idea of the ground for your pool. After all, conditions vary significantly from home to home. Even homes directly across from each other can have different environments.

Visual inspections can work but are not nearly as reliable as soil analysis. In areas where the composition is questionable, an analysis may prove to be useful. The results will help the pool builders craft a plan prepared better for the conditions, mitigating delays.

However, these tests are not always necessary. These tests can be expensive, so if your pool builder can determine if the soil is suitable, it is best to avoid an analysis.

Mid City Custom Pools has been building world-class custom pools for homeowners throughout the DFW area for decades. We have experienced many different soil conditions, and we have the experience necessary to work through them. If you are interested in starting construction on your own pool, give us a call today.

What to Expect During Your First Meeting with Your Pool Builder

First Meetings with Pool Builders are Important

Once you have made the decision to add a custom pool to your backyard, it is time to meet with an experienced pool builder, such as the ones at Mid City Custom Pools. It’s a good thing to keep in mind that building a pool at certain points of the year may make it easier to build your pool faster and without as many delays, which might play a role in your decision to build a pool. However, the process of building a pool is typically always the same. The first step in this process is to meet with a trusted and experienced pool builder.

In this first step, you and your pool builder will discuss many things that are critical to the construction process of your pool, including its design. These initial meetings can be daunting and a little overwhelming if you have no experience being a pool owner or building a pool. A lot goes into pool construction, so there is plenty you and your pool builder will need to discuss to plan and start building your pool.

We understand how exciting it is to begin building a pool. While it’s a big step for any homeowner, it can also be a stressful one. After all, your backyard will be under construction for several weeks. However, your first meeting with your pool builder can help ease any anxieties you may have. Mid City Custom Pools understands the excitement that goes into building a new pool, which is why today we will be discussing what to expect during your initial visit with a pool builder.

What to Expect

As we said earlier, there are a lot of things that are initially discussed during your first meeting with your pool builder. Without this first step, a pool builder will not have the necessary information to build your pool efficiently. However, for those with no pool building or pool owning experience, they might have no idea what to expect during this initial meeting. Mid City Custom Pools understands the importance of these meetings, which is why we are here to provide you with some insight.

Design

Designing your pool is one of the first things you and your pool builder will discuss during your initial visit. Your pool builder may ask to see your backyard to get an idea of the size they are working with and what design will look the best in the space provided. Whether you want a traditional geometric swimming pool or a modern free form pool, your pool builder will help you decide during your first meeting.

Additionally, if you are interested in other amenities, such as an attached spa, water feature, or an outdoor living space, our pool builders will go over all the details for them and how they would affect your construction timeline. Once you and your pool builder have settled on a design, they can survey your property to begin construction.

The pool builders at Mid City Custom Pools will walk you through the process of pool construction, explaining the steps and how long the process should take. Delays, such as weather, can and do happen, which is why all builders will remind you of this to temper any expectations.

Permits

Before any construction can begin, builders have to acquire all of the necessary permits and approvals. Your pool builder will let you know that acquiring these permits may take some time and could delay the start date of construction. Permits for gas, electricity, and all other utilities will be acquired by those contracted to do said work, while your builder will get the rest of the permits and approvals. However, as the homeowner, you will need to get approval from the Homeowners Association (HOA) on your own.

Questions to Ask

Every future pool owner is going to have questions regarding the building of their pool and everything that goes with it. While many of them will be answered by your builder without you ever needing to ask a question, there are countless that go unanswered. Here are some useful questions to ask your pool builder to quell your worries:

• Who is in charge? The person you initially meet may not be the same person running the installation. Ask who is in charge, so you can get to know them and their experience level.
• What is the tentative timeline? It’s good to get an idea of how long construction may last without any delays. However, expect delays to temper your expectations.
• How many years of experience does your team have?
• What is the estimated cost of the project? Once you’ve settled on a design and style, your builder will be able to provide you with a more accurate estimate.
• Could there be any unforeseen expenses?
• Are you licensed and insured?
• Can I add any other features during the construction of my pool? Ask your pool builder about other features they can add to enhance your custom swimming pool.
• Do you utilize subcontractors? If so, can I speak with them?
• How will the project impact my yard and landscaping?
• What practices do you follow that separate you from the competition?

These are just a handful of useful questions you can bring with you during your initial meeting with a pool builder. They will help ease any concerns you may have while providing you with some clarity surrounding your pool installation.

Contact the Premier DFW Pool Builders

If you are a homeowner and you want to transform your backyard into your own personal oasis, the expert pool builders at Mid City Custom Pools are here to help. Whether you want just a swimming pool, a spa, water feature, fire feature, or an outdoor living space, we are here to help. With decades of experience helping homeowners across the area, we have the experience and skill necessary to make a quality swimming pool for you. Give us a call to get started!