A brief history of Compass Pools Australia and Paramount

Compass Pools Australia and Paramount have been working closely together to revolutionise the fiberglass pool industry. Since 1998, Compass and Paramount have assisted each other in designing the enhanced circulation -self-cleaning fiberglass pool technology that is now trusted and beloved by over 25,000 customers across Australia. The Vantage technology encourages proper bottom to top pool water circulation, ensuring proper mixing of pool chemicals and even dispersion of heat, providing significant savings in chemical and heating costs alongside the self-cleaning benefits of the system. Our assistance in designing some of fiberglass specific parts of the Vantage pool system with customer and installer ease of use in mind, lead to Compass’ founder and owner, Ian Mewett, being recognised by Paramount’s President Mr. Buzz Ghiz with the Vantage Founders Award in 2005. Ian Mewett’s son and Compass Technical Service & Warranty Manager, Scott Mewett, said this award recognised how much of an impact Ian’s work made on the fiberglass industry, not only in Australia, but throughout Europe and the USA.

“At the time, no one else was selling or installing in-floor cleaning systems in fiberglass pools, so we worked alongside Paramount in those early years to improve the Vantage system to make it readily available and popular for fiberglass pools all around the world”, Scott said. “Currently the popularity of in-floor cleaning and circulation systems has grown with 65% to 70% of Compass’ customers [annually] ordering a pool with some sort of in-floor cleaning and circulation system installed… this is probably one of the highest installation rates by any individual fiberglass pool manufacturer anywhere in the world, which is why Compass is known as ‘the home of the self-cleaning pool.’”

Paramount’s 2021 International Award of Excellence has recognised how far Compass have come within the past 25 years in growing the market for Vantage pool technology in Australia. We are very proud to receive this reward and would like to again thank Paramount and Hayward for their continued support and dedication in assisting us to innovate the fiberglass pool industry.

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Pool Safety

Supervision

Designing a swimming pool with children’s pool safety needs in mind, will help ensure everyone can enjoy a safe time while in the water. Perhaps the biggest pool safety feature for children around water is active adult supervision. Some great ways you can design supervision into your pool area is by ensuring you can clearly see the pool from your house, back deck, backyard and from any spot within the pool area. This can be done by removing obstacles such as trees, pot plants or objects that may hinder your clear view of the water. Designing a comfortable seated area around your pool is another great way to incorporate active adult supervision into your pool design. The design possibilities for these kinds of areas are endless! You could incorporate comfortable lounge chairs with padded and adjustable backs, large umbrellas and even add tables to ensure you can comfortably relax while supervising. Don’t forget to place your supervision area where you can clearly view and access the pool while also ensuring you are outside the splash zone.

X Trainer 10.2m in colour Pacific. Installed by Compass Pools Christchurch.

Sun Safety

Another great children’s pool safety design feature is sun safe areas. The sun in the hotter months can be strong, increasing the risk of sun burn and heatstroke- especially for children. These days there are a variety of shade options available that suit most pool areas and design styles- ranging from umbrellas, all the way through to permanent shade structures such as gazebos or cabanas. When incorporating these options into your pool area, ensure your shade cover doesn’t block or hinder your line of sight to the water. The way you style your sun safe areas can be endless- you could place the shade cover over the pool, beside the pool, or both. To find out more about the design possibilities for sun safe pool areas, contact your local pool installer.  Another way you can incorporate sun safety into your pool design is by placing a tube of broad-spectrum sunscreen in an easily accessible place close to the pool. Don’t forget to encourage your kids to slip, slop, slap and reapply the sunscreen ever two hours, as the water can cause it to wear off quicker. Encouraging your kids to wear sun protective clothing such as hats, long sleeve rash shirts and sunglasses as well as reminding them to drink water is another great way you can incorporate sun safety into your pool area.

Vogue 10.2m in colour Pacific. Pool with umbrella and shaded seating area. Installed by Swan Hill Pool & Spa Centre

Fencing

A fantastic children’s pool safety feature is a legally compliant fence that has an outward opening and self-latching gate. These days swimming pool fences come in a variety of styles that suit most backyard designs. Make sure that there are no climbable objects near the pool fence, such as trees, pot plants etc. This will help ensure unsupervised children can’t gain access to the pool area. Contact your local council to find out more about the fencing regulations you need to adhere to in your local area.

Design Features

Customised Design

Custom design features allow you to build a pool that is great for children (and adults) of all ages, while helping you get the most out of your pool investment. By incorporating customised design features into your pool, you can create an area that will be child friendly, while also looking fantastic within your backyard. Children love playing and swimming within shallow water spaces as it allows them to gain confidence within the water. Customised design features, such as waders, beaches and benches are a great way to incorporate these water play areas into your pool. As your children grow, you can turn these shallow water areas into a place of relaxation by incorporating options such as in- built water lounge chairs, or simply leave them as the perfect place to rest on a hot day. Other child friendly pool customisation options include water features (such as bubblers), sunpods, and pool toys (such as water slides). These customisation options are popular with children, especially at pool parties. Water features and sunpods are fantastic as they provide hours of fun, while looking visually stunning in any backyard space. Water slides are great for children of all ages, and once your children get too old- they can be easily removed by a professional. When it comes to pool customisation options that provide hours of fun for families of all ages, the skies the limit! Contact your local pool builder to find out more today.

Vogue 8m in colour Quartz. Customised options such as sunpods and bubblers provide hours of fun for the kids. Pool installed By Compass Pools Newcastle.

Vogue 9.4m in colour Pearl with Sunpod and X Trainer Spa. Pool installed by Local Pools & Spas.

Toy Storage

When thinking of child friendly design features in your pool area, make sure you think about pool toy storage. Adequate pool toy storage allows your pool area to remain clean and clutter free, it also ensures that there are no tripping hazards around the water. These days toy storage can be as fancy or as simple as you like. From storage chests that look like bench chairs to simple bucket like containers, whatever type of toys you need to store, there is most probably a storage solution for it! Check out your local pool shop or hardware store to find the right storage solution for you.

X Trainer 10.2m in colour Pacific with pool toys. Pool installed by Compass Pools Christchurch.

Pool Cleaning

When designing with children in mind it is important to think about investing in a pool that is always ready to swim in when you and your family are. On a hot summer day, no one wants to have to stop and clean the debris and leaves out of the pool before swimming. Investing in a cleaning system that minimises the amount of time and energy it takes to keep you pool clean, ensures that your pool is ready to go every time you are. Systems such as The Vantage Self-Cleaning help take the hassle and stress out of cleaning your pool. Vantage works by ensuring adequate circulation is provided throughout the whole pool, allowing for proper water filtration and efficient debris removal. This keeps your pool ready to swim at all times without the need for you to manually clean the debris and leaves yourself! Contact your local pool builder to find out more about The Vantage system.

The post How To Design A Swimming Pool With Children In Mind: Pool Safety & Design Features appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Planning for your new pool area is extremely exciting, however, one important safety and design aspect to consider is pool fencing. Under Australian law, every swimming pool within every State and Territory must have an adequate barrier to prevent and restrict unsupervised children from gaining access to the swimming pool area. Ensuring your fence meets the strict safety requirements doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on aesthetics. These days there are many different pool fencing design options available to suit every backyard design dream, budget and most importantly the safety requirements.

Australian Pool Fencing Regulations

Within Australia it is a legal requirement that every pool has a pool safety barrier around its pool area. The Australian Standard AS1926.1-2012 – Safety Barriers for Swimming Pools outlines regulations and safety standards for pool fencing. Most States and Territories use the Australian Standard for their own pool safety barrier regulations; however, some have modifications and multiple standards in place that pool owners must adhere to. In some areas the pool regulations differ depending on the year the pool was installed. Due to all these differences it is important to contact your local council or professional pool builder to find out what regulations are in your local area.

Generally speaking within Australia all pool fencing must be at least 1.2m high with gaps no greater than 100mm, and it is legally the responsibility of the pool owner to maintain the pool fence ensuring that it is legally compliant with local standards at all times. Below is a general pool safety checklist that does not factor in the local pool barrier regulations of your area. To find out if your pool is legally compliant with the law, please contact your local council.

10.2m X Trainer in Quartz with glass fencing. Installed by Compass Melbourne.

Home Pool Safety Fence and Gate Reminder Checklist

Please note: The following home ‘self-assessment’ pool safety checklist is for general educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for a professional assessment of your pool’s compliance with the law. Please contact your local council for more information.

Swimming Pool Fencing Checklist

Swimming Pool Gate Checklist

Landscape Surrounding Pool Fence Check List

For more information, please refer to SPASA Australia’s Australian Pool Fencing Rules- An Overview

The Laws and Regulations for each State and Territory

Please note, the following State and Territory laws and regulations for pool barrier safety outlined below do not go into specific detail. To find out more about the exact local laws and regulations within your area please contact your local authorised licensed pool dealer or local council. The following should also not be used on its own to determine if your pool is compliant with the law.

QLD Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

All Queensland (QLD) pools and spas need to be fenced with swimming pool barriers that adhere to the local standard. The standard outlines that pool fencing must be at least 1.2m high, have gaps no greater than 100mm and have no climbable zones within 900mm of the fence. A climbable zone is any area of the swimming pool barrier that is able to be climbed due to an object that is placed beside it. This means that any objects, such as trees, ladders, pot plants etc. must be removed if they are within 900mm of the fence. All QLD swimming pools must also be registered on the QLD pool safety register. The pool safety register keeps a record of all registered pools within QLD, the pool safety certificates issued and a list of licensed pool safety inspectors within the State. If you don’t register your pool with the QLD pool safety register, you risk being fined.

To check if your pool is compliant with the local regulations, please contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA QLD Barrier Laws

QLD Gov Pool Safety

To register your pool or spa online

To check if your pool is already registered

To find a local pool safety inspector

7m Sanctuary in colour Evolution with mix and match pool fencing. Pool installed by Composite Pools.

NSW Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Pool barriers within New South Wales (NSW) must adhere to the Swimming Pools Act 1992 and the Australian Standard 1926 (AS1926). Both these documents have been updated several times and as a result, the regulations for backyard swimming pools within NSW applies differently to each pool depending on the year of installation. For example, a pool built or altered in the 1970’s within NSW will have different regulations to a pool built or altered in NSW in 2021. Check with your local council to find out about the regulations your pool must comply with. Residential properties with swimming pools or any structure capable of holding water greater than 300mm (such as paddling pools) must be fenced with a legally compliant fence that is at least 1.2m high with gaps no greater than 100mm. All swimming pools within NSW must be registered with the NSW Swimming Pool Register, and it is the responsibility of each pool owner to ensure that their pool fencing is legally compliant at all times with the NSW Pool Barrier Regulations.

To find out more about the local pool regulations within your area and if your pool is compliant contact your local government council.

Resources:

Swimming Pools ACT 1992

Swimming Pools Regulation 2018

Swimming Pool Register NSW

SPASA NSW Barrier Laws

NSW Government Pool Inspection Self-Assessment Checklists

7.3m Sanctuary in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle.

ACT Pool Fencing/ Barrier Laws

Within the ACT all swimming pools or pool spas must be fenced with adequate barriers that legally comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). Generally speaking, pool fencing within this Territory must be at least 1.2m high with gaps that are no greater than 100mm. Swimming pool barriers within the ACT must also not have any objects within a 1.2m arc of the fence that could create a ‘climbable structure’. A climbable structure is any object that could be used to gain unsupervised access to the swimming pool and would reduce the safety aspect of the pool fence. In other words, you need to make sure that there are no objects, such as trees, BBQs, chairs etc. placed near or on the pool fence that could be climbed on and used to gain access to the pool area while unsupervised.

To find out if your swimming pool fence is legally compliant with the ACT Pool Barrier laws, please contact your local government council.

Resources:

ACT Gov Pool Barrier Safety

SPASA ACT Barrier Laws

11.8m X Trainer in colour Pacific with aluminium fencing. Installed by Capital Country Pools.

VIC Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Within Victoria it is the obligation of every pool and spa owner to ensure that their pool barrier is maintained correctly and always adheres to the local fencing safety standards. The pool barrier must have a self-latching and self-closing gate and must comply with the AS1926.1-2012 standard. From the 1 December 2019, new laws were introduced within Victoria to improve swimming pool and spa safety. This includes laws that state all pools must be registered with their local council, as well as introducing new laws around inspection and certification requirements for property owners.

For more information and to see if your pool is compliant with the local Victorian pool fencing regulations, please contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA Victoria Barrier Laws

Victorian Pool Safety Barriers

Victorian Pool & Spa Registration Requirements

Victorian Pool & Spa Inspections and Compliance

Victorian Installing a New Pool or Spa

8.2m X Trainer in colour Pacific with mix and match fencing. Installed by Bridgeswade.

TAS Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Pools and spas within Tasmania need to comply with the Australian Standard 1926.1 & 2. This standard outlines the ‘rules’ that swimming pool fencing must adhere to. Fences must be at least 1.2m high, have a gap under the fence no greater than 100mm from the ground, and the vertical bars must be closer than 100mm apart. Tasmanian pool fencing must also have a self-latching and self-closing gate, and must be properly maintained at all times by the pool owner.

To find out if your pool is legally compliant with local laws, contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA Tasmanian Barrier Laws

Tasmanian Government Pool Safety Barriers

NT Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Within the Northern Territory (NT) there are two pool fencing safety standards: the Modified Australian Standard and the Community Australian Standard. The safety standard that your pool must comply with generally depends on what year your pool was installed. For more information, please contact your local city council.

Resources:

SPASA Northern Territory Barrier Laws

Northern Territory Barrier Laws

SA Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Generally speaking South Australian (SA) pools and spas must adhere to the following pool fencing safety rules:

• The pool fencing must be a permanent effective barrier for children entering the pool area
• It must not have gaps below the fence that could allow children to climb under
• It must not be able to be climbed over by children through the use of foot or hand holds
• It must be at least 1.2 m high
• Any boundary fences used as part of the pool safety barrier must be at least 1.8m high on the side that faces the pool
• Gates to the pool fence must be self-closing, self-latching from any position and swing outward from the pool area. The self-latching device must be placed at least 1.5m above ground level.

To find out if your pool is legally compliant with the local regulations, contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA South Australian Barrier Laws

SA Government Pool & Spa Safety

WA Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

In Western Australia (WA), the Building Regulations 2012 requires any private pool or spa (deeper than 300mm) to be fenced with an adequate, legally compliant safety barrier that restricts unsupervised children’s access to the pool.

There are currently two sets of safety barrier requirements within WA. The requirement your swimming pool must adhere to depends on the year your private swimming pool was installed, or the year the plans for installation of your pool were submitted to the permit authority for approval. These two requirements apply for pools installed (or permits submitted) before/ or after the 1^st May 2016.

To find out if your pool is compliant with the local regulations, contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA WA Barrier Laws

WA Rules for Pools & Spas 2016

Different Types of Pool Fencing Options

After safety the next most important aspect to consider when designing your new pool area, is the type of pool fencing that would suit your backyard design dreams. These days there are many different styles that suit a variety of different budgets, design choices and installation sites. Below, we will explore the most popular options available on the market at this time.

Glass Fencing

Glass fencing is one of the most popular and frequently asked about pool fencing options. Part of its popularity comes down to its aesthetically beautiful and seamless appearance that does not ‘take away’ from the overall design of your backyard pool area by being too ‘in your face’. The only downsides to glass fencing are that it can easily show smudge marks, fingerprints, or the white marks left from salt residue. Another thing to be conscious about with glass fencing is the risk of birds flying into it and decreased air flow within the pool area due to the enclosed nature of this barrier option. That may seem like a lot of negatives, but the overall seamless look of glass fencing cannot be beaten and undeniably adds visual value to any backyard design. Glass fencing comes in two different styles: frameless and semi frameless.

7.2m X-Trainer in colour Quartz showcasing glass pool fencing. Pool installed by Compass Pools Sydney.

Frameless Glass Fencing

Frameless glass fencing has no frames or metal ‘posts’ between each pane of glass and is instead held together by small metal pegs located at the bottom of the fence. This type of glass fencing is excellent if you want to showcase your landscaping designs by using a pool barrier that seamlessly blends into you pool space. Keep in mind that frameless glass fencing is more expensive than semi-frameless glass fencing, to find out more please contact your local pool builder.

Semi-Frameless Glass Fencing

Semi-frameless glass fencing has metal fence posts between each sheet of glass. The overall effect is still visually seamless; however, the posts make the fence slightly more visible than the frameless option. If you are concerned about the possibility of birds, pets or loved ones accidentally colliding with your pool barrier due to its ability to blend into its surrounds, then semi frameless is perfect as it still creates a visually seamless look but is slightly more noticeable than frameless. Semi frameless glass fencing often costs less than frameless.

12.3m Fastlane with External Steps in colour Sapphire with semi-frameless glass fencing. Pool installed by Swan Hill Pool and Spa Centre.

Earthing Your Glass Pool Fencing

Keep in mind that glass fencing within 1.25m of your swimming pool needs to be earthed by a qualified electrician to ensure your pool barrier doesn’t become an electrical conductor for any electrical current flowing within the ground. This is important, as water and electricity do not mix and by earthing the metal pegs within your fencing, you stop the risk of electrocution from happening when water comes into contact with your pool barrier. These days you can sometimes choose to install your glass fencing with composite spigots instead of the metal pegs. Composite spigots do not need to be earthed as they are not metal, but the downside of them is that they are not stainless steel.

The cost of glass fencing differs in price but ranges anywhere from $350m to $600m. To find out more about the glass fencing options for your pool area, please contact your local pool dealer.

Aluminium Fencing

Aluminium fencing is an affordable, popular pool fencing option that meets the safety standards in Australia. It is available in many different colours to suit most backyard design spaces and is very low maintenance in terms of cleaning. Aluminium fencing is highly practical but perhaps not as aesthetically pleasing or as popular as the glass options. This type of pool fencing does however allow for great air flow within the pool area and costs between $160 per m and $200 per m.

5.8m X Trainer in colour Sapphire with aluminium fencing. Pool installed by SJs Pools & Spas.

Pool Perforated Fencing

Pool perforated fencing is one of the newest design options available for installation within pool areas in Australia. This type of fencing is made out of aluminium, is highly customisable and available in many different design options including see through and patterned. Pool perforated fencing can be customised to include shapes and ‘see through’ sections within the design unlike traditional aluminium fencing which can only be customised in terms of block colour. This type of fencing is more expensive than traditional aluminium fencing options but does allow for more customisation. The average cost of pool perforated fencing is between $365m² – $800m²

Mix and Match

There are no limits to the design options available for your backyard design dreams as you can mix and match any legally compliant pool fence to your heart’s content. This means if you want one section glass and another aluminium, you are more than welcome to do so. If you are looking for ideas on how to create and plan your new perfect pool area, contact your local pool dealer.

10.2m X Trainer in colour Sapphire with mix and match fencing. Pool installed by Central Pools

Temporary Pool Fencing

It is important to note that in most States and Territories within Australia, it is compulsory to fence your pool (whether construction is complete or not) as soon as the structure (e.g. pool shell) is capable of holding 300mm of water or more. During this stage of construction, temporary pool fencing options can be hired or purchased. These options range in price, but to find out more, please contact your local pool installer.

For More Information

SPASA Australian Pool Fencing Rules: An Overview https://www.spasa.com.au/consumer-info/fencing-laws

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Three reasons why investing in a pool cover is a great idea

1) A pool cover is a great way to add heat to your pool

Especially if you don’t have a solar or electric heat pump. A pool cover, such as the Solar Gains Cover is a fantastic way to achieve extra heat.

Solar Gains Cover: A Solar Gains Cover is similar to a bubble wrap blanket for your swimming pool. It is designed to let heat transfer from the sun directly into your pool, while simultaneously providing a protective barrier to prevent heat escaping from the water. A Solar Gains Cover from a reputable manufacturer can add, in some cases, as much as four or five degrees of heat to your swimming pool when compared to a non-covered pool! We have even heard that swimming pools with this cover can get so warm, that people choose to leave them off for a day or two. A Solar Gains Cover is a great way to add extra heat to your swimming pool, especially if you don’t have a heat pump.

2) A pool cover can provide Thermal Protection

Pool covers are also a fantastic way to provide thermal protection to your swimming pool. If you have a solar heater or heat pump in your swimming pool, a thermal protection cover, such as the Heat Retention Blanket is a great way to keep the warmth in.

Heat Retention Blanket: A heat retention blanket is different in consistency to a Solar Gains cover, as it tends to be more foam-like with a reflective material on top. Everything about this blanket is designed to keep the heat in your swimming pool, and to stop it from escaping. Did you know, over 90% of a swimming pools warmth is lost through it’s surface? A good quality Heat Retention Blanket helps to drastically reduce the majority of that heat loss, particularly overnight. The added benefit, is that with less heat loss, your pool heater or pump won’t have to work so hard to regulate your pool’s temperature. Meaning that a Heat Protection Blanket may even reduce your ongoing power consumption and costs!

Contemporary 16.6m custom in colour Evolution with thermal pool cover. Installed by North West Pools.

3) Swimming pool covers are great for debris management

Debris management covers typically look mesh like, and are a great way to reduce debris, such as tree leaves, from entering your swimming pool. A debris pool cover can be placed directly onto the swimming pools surface, however if you live in a high debris area, attaching the cover to the pavers around the pool will provide more options for varying degrees of debris control. Alternatively, you can control debris by using a Solar Gains Cover or a Heat Retention Blanket. However, it is important to note, that a self-cleaning swimming pool further assists with debris management, and may reduce your need for a debris management pool cover.

Vogue 7.15m in colour Pacific with roller cover. Pool installed by Composite Pools.

How to Integrate your pool cover and roller into your swimming pool area

The great thing about swimming pool covers and rollers, is that there are plenty of options and styles to suit all budgets and aesthetic needs. They are highly customisable and can be integrated into your pool area, any way you like. The best way to decide which cover and roller style suits your needs is to have a conversation with your pool planner.

If you are on a budget, there are some great standard cover and roller units available that sit at the end of your pool. These units can be placed on top of your deck or concrete patio, and easily unwind to protect your pool as needed.

17m custom Fastlane in colour Pacific with roller cover. Installed by Capital Country Pools.

If you are concerned about the aesthetics of your cover and roller unit- no worries! There are some great options to suit your needs. Some manufacturers offer options where your pool cover rolls back into a bench seat. Or you can always just custom your very own design, that suits the functionality and style of your pool area.

Other great options include inground or in-deck rollers and covers. These can be designed in two ways.

1) Inground/ Cover Pit

These covers are installed in pits beneath a deck or into the concrete around your swimming pool. To roll out these covers, simply open the lid, pull it out above your deck and then slide it across the top of your pool. To wind it back, simply use a 90-degree crank shaft.

2) In Deck Roller

These covers are installed by creating a pit under your decking, and then ensuring that the decking goes right up to the edge of the pool. Once complete your cover simply rolls out from under the deck and is completely hidden from sight when not in use.

Vogue 10.2m Swimming Pool in colour Pearl with in deck roller cover. Installed by Central Pools

Important advice about swimming pool covers

This advice is important for anyone using a cover on their swimming pool- especially if you have an automated chemical dosing system, such as a salt chlorinator or a liquid chlorine feeder. UV light and rays break down chemicals such as chlorine, and pool covers act as a barrier between your pool and the sun. As a result, if your pool cover is on for a long uninterrupted period of time, the sun can’t break down the chemicals in your pool. This can increase the concentration of chlorine and chemicals, and may result in serious damage to the shell of your swimming pool. This damage, depending on the extent, may be treatable but is extremely costly, and in some cases the chemical damage cannot be fixed. To prevent this in times such as winter, or if you know your pool won’t be used for a while, keep these two helpful tips in mind.

1) Reduce the dosage

Reduce the dosage of chemicals in your swimming pool system during the period of non-use or when you are going away. This helps to prevent chemical concentration building up and thus prevents chemical damage.

2) Remove the pool cover

Or remove the pool cover during the period in which the pool is not in use. This simply prevents chemicals from building up, because the UV rays have direct access to break them down.

Refresh 6.1m Express Pool in colour Grey-Marble with pool cover. Installed by The Little Pool Co.

Swimming pool covers and rollers are a great option for pool protection, heat and debris control. They can assist with reducing costs, but just remember to adjust the chemicals or remove the cover if the pool is not in use for long periods of time.

The post Pool Covers and Rollers appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Water Features: A pool customisation that enhances the overall look of your pool

Water features like blades, waterfalls, jets and fountains are a fantastic way to transform your pool area without having to spend a lot of money and are a great hit with the kids as they are highly interactive.  Water features look visually spectacular, however, one important thing to keep in mind is the noise pollution they create through the sound of constant splashing water. Pool areas are often hubs of social interaction, and it can be difficult to compete against noisy water features when holding a conversation, which means more often than not, you may have your water feature turned off. Another thing to know is that water features which constantly circulate water into your pool can cool the temperature down. Keep this in mind if you have a heated pool, as a water feature may mean you have to run your heater for longer, consuming more electricity bills. If you are thinking of building a water feature, contact your local pool builder for more advice.

: 7.15m Vogue in colour Evolution with sunpod and water feature. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

5.8m X-Trainer in colour Blue Granite with water feature. Pool installed by Capital Country Pools

10.2m Vogue in colour Quartz with water feature. Pool Installed by Azure Pools

10.2m X-Trainer in colour Pacific with beach and water feature. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Sunpods: Perfect for Kids in the Pool Area

Sunpods are a really popular pool customisation option that are a great way to change the look and feel of your pool without having to change the shell shape. Typically, sunpods are added to the area surrounding your pool as a shallow tiled section, and they include central bubbler jets to create a quiet water feature and wet play area. Sunpods tend to be a crowd pleaser, and a fan favourite amongst kids as they are highly interactive and fun. Unlike typical water features, these types of pool customisations are really quiet, and so you will most likely leave these on when you have social gatherings. As sunpods are tiled areas they can be personalised into whatever colour and design pattern you choose, making them a great addition to any backyard pool space.

7m Sanctuary pool in Viridian with sunpod. Installed by SJ’s Pools & Spas

10.2m Vogue in colour Pearl with sunpod. Installed by Central Pools

Lighting: A subtle yet effective pool customisation

Lighting can be a great way to add a personal touch to your pool design. Great pool lighting does not require the pool shell to be altered, and thus makes it a quick and affordable design install option. Custom pool lighting can be added to both the pool and the surrounding pool area. These days there are many different lighting systems to suit most design dreams and budgets, including options that can change colour from an app on your smart phone. Multi coloured LED lights are one of the most popular pool custom options that new pool buyers go for. This simple addition means you can have a different coloured pool almost every night of the year. Great pool lighting at night can bring your pool to life and make your swimming pool the centrepiece of your backyard when entertaining family and friends.

10.2m Vogue in colour Evolution with pool lighting and glow stones in pool paving. Pool installed by Smart Self Cleaning Pools

11.8m X-Trainer in colour Evolution with sunpod and lighting. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Beaches and Benches: Customise the shape & design of your pool with beaches and benches

By adding a beach or bench to your pool, you can completely change the look, feel and function of your backyard swimming area. Both options are a crowd favourite with children and adults alike due to the shallow water space they provide for lounging, relaxing or playing. Traditionally adding beaches or benches to a moulded fibreglass pool would require developing a completely new mould or shape. However, these days, Compass fibreglass pools can be customised within our factory to place beach zones and benches in various selected areas of any of our standard pool shapes and sizes. We do this by creating a rebate in one of the walls of your pool shell and connecting it to a customised fibreglass beach or bench that is created to suit your design requirements. Essentially, we take a section out of the wall of the pool shell and connect it with a fibreglass ‘mini pool’ or beach zone that has three walls. Beach zones are highly popular as they create a shallow play area for children to enjoy and adults to relax in outside of the main swimming area. Beaches and benches are slightly more expensive than other pool customisations due to the cost of altering the pool shell during the manufacturing process. For many this extra cost is worth it to achieve such a high end and beautiful look. When choosing a beach or bench you are investing in not only your pool, but the overall enjoyment of your pool area.

: 10.2m X-Trainer with Beach Zone in colour Sapphire. Pool installed by Central Pools

9.5m Contemporary with grand entry bench in Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Sydney

Beaches and benches can also be customised to include pool sun chairs. 2.8m plunge/ concrete hybrid pool in the colour Vercoe installed by Bostock Pools

9.4m X-Trainer with Beach Zone in colour Atlantic. Pool installed by Swan Hill Pool & Spa Centre

Pool and Spa Combos: Create an outdoor area that’s uniquely you!

Pool and spa combos are another great way to enhance the look and function of your pool area. Adding a Compass spa alongside any Compass pool in any configuration you choose, allows you to create a backyard space that is uniquely you. Compass pools and spas can be placed separately within the pool area or connected to create a seamless ‘flow on’ look between the pool and spa. Adding a matching spa to your Compass pool opens up a world of design opportunities and allows you to get the best of both pool and spa worlds.

7m Sanctuary with X-Trainer Spa in Pacific. Pool installed by Wimmera Spas & Pools

5m Plunge with X-Trainer Spa in the colour Viridian. Pool installed by Gordon Ave Pools & Spas

8.2m Vogue Narrow with 2.5m beach in Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

: 6.2m Plunge with X-Trainer Spa in colour Viridian. Pool Installed by BG’s Pools & Spas

Infinity or Vanishing Edges: A spectacular out of ground pool customisation option

Infinity or vanishing edges are a fantastic way to showcase your out of ground pool against the backdrop of your surrounding landscape. Vanishing edges are created by removing one edge of your pool shell, allowing water to ‘overflow’ over the side and into a ‘hidden’ catchment tank below. One important thing to consider before purchasing a vanishing or infinity edged pool, is the initial and ongoing cost of running and install. One of the ongoing costs is the expense of continuously running water pumps to return the water from the catchment tank, back into your pool. Another expense is that if your infinity edged pool is heated, it will cost more to keep warm due to the constant return of cold water from the catchment tank into the main pool area. If you live in a hot or drought prone area, it is important to note that infinity edge pools are also prone to high levels of water evaporation due to the constant flow of water over the edge. This means that infinity edged pools may need to have their water topped up more frequently than traditional pools and if you live under water restrictions, you may exceed the level of water you are allowed to use for your pool. The final product of an infinity edge pool is spectacular, however the expenses of running these kinds of pools can be high. To overcome this Compass Pools has invented the acrylic edge fibreglass pool as an alternative, giving you the same high-quality look at a more affordable cost.

Acrylic Edges: Perfect for that high end look without the high-end price

Acrylic edge fibreglass pools are a fantastic option if you want to have the same high-quality look of a vanishing or infinity edged pool, but without the same ongoing hassle and running costs. An acrylic edge pool is designed to look as though one of the edges is non-existent or invisible by using an acrylic see through window along one edge of the pool. This mimics the effect of a vanishing or infinity pool as it looks as though there is no edge, creating a stunning visual flow from your pool area to your surrounding landscape. The beauty of an acrylic edge pool is that there is no catchment tank, so no ongoing costs of extra water or heat pumps, and no increased water evaporation- only the beautiful effect of a visually seamless pool. Contact your local Compass Pool Dealer to find out more today.

8m custom Fastlane in colour Quartz with acrylic panel. Pool installed by Compass Pools Melbourne

7.2m X-Trainer with Acrylic Panel in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Sydney

10.2m Vogue with custom 8.6m Acrylic Panel in Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Mix and Match: Enhance your backyard pool area through a combination of pool customisation options

With a Compass pool, you can combine almost any of these pool customisation options together- so why not mix and match? Your local pool builder is a professional at bringing visions to life, so contact them today to start planning your dream backyard pool area!

11.8m X-Trainer with X-Trainer Spa & Wader in the colour Pearl. Installed by Compass Pools Melbourne

10.2m X-Trainer in the colour Evolution with sunken sunpod and X-Trainer Spa. Pool installed by Aquastyle Pools

10m Fastlane with wader, beach bench and acrylic edge in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Compass Pools Melbourne.

The post Popular Pool Customisation Options for your Fibreglass Pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

A brief overview of our Compass Pools & McGrath Partnership

Since 2016 we have proudly partnered with the McGrath Foundation as a way of giving back to the communities that have supported us for over 40 years. As a family business we wanted to make a difference and give back via a charity that focuses on helping families when they need it the most. The McGrath Foundation raises money to place specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses across the nation, and are free for anyone diagnosed with breast cancer to access. With 55 people in Australia diagnosed with breast cancer every day, we all know somebody who has been affected. Whether it’s a mum, grandma, aunty, sister, partner or friend, the McGrath foundation is there to always ensure families have support when they need it the most.

Annually we pledge to donate over $150,000 to the McGrath Foundation. This commitment allows us to fully fund our very own McGrath Breast Care Nurse named Samantha Burns. We want to say a massive thank you to our customers, dealer network and our team for helping us give back to the community. We would not be able to sponsor Sam if it wasn’t for you all, and so from the bottom of our hearts- thank you!

Watch Tracy Bevan of the McGrath Foundation thank Compass Pools Australia for their ongoing support:

Pink Compass Pool shell to show our proud support of the McGrath Foundation

That’s why our pools are pink!

To show our support of the McGrath Foundation, we paint our Compass pool shells pink! We hope that when you see a pink Compass Pool coming down your street, you stop and think about the McGrath Foundation and remember to take your breast health into your own hands by checking yourself today. If you see a pink Compass Pool driving along, or if you have one in your backyard oasis, don’t forget to snap a photo and upload it to social media with the hashtag #PinkCompassPool. Your photo can help us spread the McGrath Breast Cancer Awareness message and help the Foundation ensure that no Australian ever has to battle breast cancer alone.

What does it mean to Compass Pools Australia to Fund a McGrath Breast Care Nurse?

To be able to fully fund a McGrath Breast Care Nurse fills us all with an immense amount of pride as we know how much of a difference their work makes in the community. For over 40 years we have been in the business of building backyard dreams and by being able to fund Samantha Burns, we can help give back and support Australian families when they need it the most. Most other McGrath corporate partners are big corporations, and as a family-owned business we feel pride in taking responsibility and stepping up to do our bit to give back to the community. By committing to fully funding a McGrath Breast Care Nurse, we can help the Foundation achieve their goal of ensuring no one in Australia ever has to go through breast cancer alone. Our McGrath partnership also allows our staff to come to work every day and feel as though they are a part of something much bigger. If you would like to help us give back to our communities through the McGrath Foundation, we encourage you to check out our ‘Ways to give to the McGrath Foundation’ news story on our website. Or head to the McGrath donation website for further details.

Effie stands with her Pink Compass Pool as it arrives at her home.

Compass Pool customer Effie and her pink Compass Pool:

The most important aspect of our McGrath partnership is being able to give back to our customers by assisting a Foundation that cares just as much about family as we do. Authorised Compass Pools dealer, Local Pools & Spas, recently created a backyard oasis for Effie who is currently fighting breast cancer. Effie and her partner Paul share part of their experience below.

“Thank you so much Local Pools & Compass for making our pool & spa dream a reality! To be fighting breast cancer during breast cancer awareness month (and within a pandemic) has been surreal and a challenging time. For this reason, we decided to build our own home resort. To know part of our ‘Pink Pool’ supports the McGrath Foundation for breast cancer who have helped me greatly in the past 12 months of my breast cancer journey is ever so special.” – Effie and Paul

Compass Pools Australia would like to say a massive thank you to the McGrath Foundation for doing what they do every day and going out and helping thousands of Australian families, like Effie and Paul’s every year! Thank you, and we are very proud to be your partner.

Meet Samantha Burns, our Compass Pools funded McGrath Breast Care Nurse

Our fully funded Compass Pools McGrath Breast Care Nurse named Sam operates out of the Bankstown, Southwestern Sydney area. As a McGrath breast care nurse, Sam plays a pivotal role in helping families navigate a confusing health care system while making sure that someone is by their side throughout every step of their breast cancer treatment.

McGrath Nurses, such as Sam are highly trained and experienced in providing tailored care and support for each of their patients and their families. This assistance can be physical such as providing dressing care after surgery or by helping patients with their bras or prosthetic fittings post amputation. Sam also provides emotional assistance by translating complex medical jargon, or simply by being there when a patient wakes up post-surgery. As a McGrath Nurse, Sam works closely with breast and plastic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation teams, psychologists and social workers to ensure that all her patients’ needs are met. Her role also provides support to partners, children and family members of her patients. This can include helping them to understand the process of breast cancer treatment and being there for them during an often scary and confusing time.

Our McGrath Breast Care Nurse Sam is also passionate about providing breast cancer awareness education both to her fellow colleagues, her patients, the public and to herself. As part of her quest to have the most up to date information, Sam is a key member of breast cancer research teams- such as her recent participation in the team developing new cancer treatments for patients with diabetes. By staying up to date with the latest breast cancer information, Sam can provide the most current evidence-based practice and care to all her patients. Compass Pools Australia is very proud to sponsor Sam as our McGrath Breast Care Nurse and we proudly support all the hard work she does with McGrath.

Watch Sam thank Compass Pools for supporting her as a McGrath Breast Care Nurse:

How has COVID-19 Impacted Sam?

Like most of us, COVID-19 has impacted the way Sam works as a McGrath Breast Care Nurse. Due to the restrictions placed upon hospitals to remain COVID safe, Sam has had to treat her patients in full personal protective equipment (PPE), including wearing gowns, facemasks, face shields, gloves etc. This can often be quite confronting for her patients, especially as they were unable to have loved ones in treatment rooms due to the COVID-19 capacity requirements. As a nurse for the Bankstown Southwestern Sydney area, Sam’s health district covers almost 1 million people, with over half the districts population having a language other than English as their native tongue. This means that many breast cancer patients that Sam worked with during the pandemic often felt a sense of heightened anxiety due to the confusion caused from COVID-19 restrictions.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom! Due to the isolating nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sam and NSW health have quickly adapted to utilising technology more within their daily practice. Services such as telehealth or virtual doctor appointments have meant some patients don’t even have to leave their home to access the treatment they need. COVID-19 has meant that many changes had to occur in order to keep us all safe, including the way McGrath Breast Care Nurses such as Sam work. If you would like to help fund the important work McGrath do, then check out the McGrath donation page.

Check yourself today

According to the McGrath Foundation, due to stay at home measures from COVID-19, breast cancer diagnosis is down 37% in Australia in 2021 alone. This means that around 20 people per day are currently missing out on early breast cancer detection. Early detection is crucial, and the power is in your hands… literally! Take control of what you can during these strange times and look after your breast health today. The McGrath Foundation has released a campaign called ‘Look, Feel Learn’ encouraging people who ‘grow them, to know them!’. Discover how to check your breast health today by looking at the McGrath page here.

Other ways Compass Pools is helping the McGrath Foundation

Pool Give away at the Pink Test in Sydney

In January 2019, Compass Pools Australia gave away a pool at the Pink Test in Sydney. To enter the giveaway people had to purchase a ticket, and all the money raised went to the McGrath Foundation.

Pink Pool Party

In early 2020 Compass Pools encouraged all our customers to host a McGrath pink pool party to raise both funds and awareness for the McGrath Foundation. Even though this event was cut short due to the outbreak of COVID-19, we would like to thank everyone who hosted a party or was in the planning stages. We can’t wait to host another Pink Pool Party with you soon- fingers crossed for 2022!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2021

In October 2021, Compass Pools Australia celebrated Breast Cancer Awareness month by hosting a virtual Ladies Lunch with some of our female staff and dealers. Tracy Bevan, Diana Johnson and Samantha Burns of the McGrath Foundation joined us as we discussed all things breast health and McGrath. The aim of this lunch was to encourage all our female staff to take control of their breast health and check themselves today. It was a big success!

Compass Pools Australia head office and factory jellybean competition

As part of breast cancer awareness month 2021, we created a jellybean competition and encouraged all our office staff and our factory workers to donate a gold coin and have a guess to help us raise funds for the McGrath Foundation. In total we raised $67! Thank you to all our staff who helped us make a difference through the McGrath Foundation.

Ways to give back to the McGrath Foundation

It costs roughly $140,000 to fund a single McGrath Breast Care Nurse every year in Australia. If you would like to help McGrath help Australian families going through breast cancer, then there are numerous ways you can help:

• Individual Donations: Every little bit helps, and each donation helps the McGrath Foundation provide free support to patients and their families experiencing breast cancer
• Monthly Donations: Monthly donations help reassure patients with breast cancer that the Breast Care Nurses’ services will continue well into the future. You can set the donation amount, and every donation is welcome
• Will: You can write the McGrath Foundation in your will and leave a generous gift after you pass. This lasting gift will support more nurses
• Celebration – Celebrating someone you know and their triumphant fight with breast cancer is an excellent way to show them you care while raising funds for the Foundation.
• In Memory – Leave a lasting legacy for someone lost to breast cancer by donating funding in their name and honour.
• Shop Pink – Shop pink with the Foundation’s Pink Partner Products any time of the year. Purchase proceeds go back into the program to support the nurses.
• Volunteer – You can join a host of community volunteers that work at the Pink Test event in January or other events the McGrath Foundation hosts throughout the year.

The post Compass Pools Australia’s Proud Partnership with the McGrath Foundation appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Compass Pools Australia has announced their 2021 Compass Pools Dealer Award Winners! The winners were announced at our virtual awards ceremony by our Compass Pools CEO, Anthony Cross and team member Steve Vimpani. This years’ standard of entry went above and beyond expectations, and we would like to say a massive congratulations to all our 2021 award winners and nominees!

Winners of the ‘Excellence in Pool Design’ Award:

Ultimate Pools

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools Ltd

BG’s Pools & Spas

6.2m Plunge in colour Viridian. Pool installed by BG’s Pools & Spas

North West Pools

16.6m Custom Contemporary in colour Evolution. Pool Installed by North West Pools

Compass Pools Newcastle

11.8m X-Trainer in colour Evolution with Sunpod. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Compass Pools Melbourne

11.8m X-Trainer with Spa and wader in colour Pearl. Installed by Compass Pools Melbourne

Aquastyle Pools

10.2m X-Trainer with X-Trainer Spa in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Aquastyle Pools

Compass Pools Sydney

Central Pools

7.15m X-Trainer Slimline in colour Viridian. Pool installed by Central Pools

Winner of the ‘Most Outstanding Media Presence’ Award:

Compass Pools Newcastle

5m Plunge Pool in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Winner of the ‘Most Outstanding Pool Innovation- Design and Installation’ Award:

Adam Martin

Adam Martin of Compass Pools Melbourne

Winner of the ‘Most Innovative and Adaptive Dealer’ Award:

Compass Pools Melbourne

10.2m X-Trainer with Spa in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Melbourne

Winner of the ‘Trailblazers Award- Women in the Pool Industry’:

Jan Cazemier

Jan Cazemier who co-ordinates the NZ Compass Pools Dealers

Winner of the ‘Compass Values Award’:

Russell Fagan

Russell Fagan of Compass Pools Sydney

Winner of the ‘Barry Vercoe- Excellence in Customer Service Award’:

Luke Geering

Luke Geering of Smart Self-Cleaning Pools

Winners of the ‘Compass Pool Builder of the Year’:

Local Pools & Spas

10.2m X-Trainer in colour Pacific. Installed by Local Pools & Spas

Azure Pools

10.2m Vogue in colour Sapphire. Pool installed by Azure Pools

Get your own Compass Pool

Fell in love with these amazing fibreglass pool installations by our authorised dealers? Have these pool projects made you start thinking of your own swimming pool? If so, it’s super easy to get you started. Use our postcode finder to look up your closest Compass Pool dealer and get in touch with them today for a free consultation and/or a quote.

FIND YOUR NEAREST COMPASS POOL DEALER

The post 2021 Compass Pools Dealer Award Winners Announced appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Winner ‘Fibreglass Pool over $60,000’:

9.4m X-Trainer in Evolution

Literally living on a ridge line, our clients wished to extend the living and entertaining areas of their home to make their hilltop paradise functional and beautiful without obscuring any views from the home.

The challenge was working on an extremely sloped section with only narrow access way past the existing dwelling on the narrow ridge line.

Pool equipment needed to be hidden from eyesight to keep the natural flow of the view from the house without being obscured.

The photos probably speak for themselves in this instance! The pool and surrounds are an amazing feat of engineering and enhance the rugged landscape while making an absolutely breathtaking entertainment area from the rugged ridge line.

Winner ‘Pool of the Year and Fibreglass Lap Pool’:

20m Fastlane in Evolution

The customer, who is a university professor, was looking for a place for exercise and solitude on his remote farmhouse in Waitoki. There were a couple of options for placement of the pool but with soil and slope stability taken into consideration we found the best spot which would also take advantage of the aspect of the sun.

This was an amazing feat of engineering as the pool was delivered to site – all the way from Newcastle, Australia- in two fibreglass pieces which had to be joined together on site and lifted into the excavated hole in one piece.

As the pool is Vantage self-cleaning, special consideration had to be given to the hydraulic system to ensure that it would clean efficiently in such a large swimming pool.

Our design brief was to provide the client with a lap pool for exercise with close proximity to his home and to maximise the use of a large flat area.

The second part of the brief was to make the pool super easy to care for, which we did with a salt chlorinator, automatic dosing, and the vantage self-cleaning system.

Our design brief for this client was to transform his remote property into a sanctuary for exercise and time out. This amazing 20m long lap pool provides the perfect opportunity to swim year-round for health and wellbeing. The beautiful Evolution colour finish accentuates the surrounding property, while the Vantage self-cleaning system and automation means the pool is immaculate and ready for its owners to enjoy whenever they seek time out from life’s demands. 

Highly Commended for “Prefabricated Composite Pool over $30k’:

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Quartz

This fun-loving young family were working with an area which required extensive retaining to put a pool in. They had been stung with a quote of over $150,000 from another pool company, so were thrilled to learn that we could use our prefabricated composite constructed pools to save thousands in costs. There were limited options in terms of pool placement on the property due to the house being on a valley line with extreme slopes.

This site required major engineering to create a retained base on which to support the pool shell when it was delivered to site. Only a pool such as our freestanding composite pool would work. The pool was craned on to site.

An engineered retaining wall was used to form a base for the pool to be installed on. The pool itself was tailor made specific to the site in Newcastle, Australia before being shipped to NZ. This included Maxi Ribs purpose designed for the site measurements. The pool itself was craned into place over the house.

The family requested a big outdoor entertainment area with space to watch their young children play in the pool. The colour was chosen to work in with the natural environment and landscaping. The pool area works as a perfect extension of the house which has a modern theme and amazing outlook over the valley.

This swimming pool was designed for a fun-loving young family who were looking for an extension of their home and entertainment area with fabulous views across the Muriwai Valley. Making the most of a steeply sloped section, this self-cleaning Compass X-Trainer pool in the popular Quartz colour is the perfect addition to the designer home. The Van Der Walle family could not speak highly enough of their experience with Ultimate Pools and are thrilled with the final result.

Q. Wow, those pools are phenomenal! Were there any funny stories or highlights from the awards night that you feel our readers might be interested in learning about?

Rainbow:

A highlight from the night was definitely the presentation of the award for industry service for business owner Warren Wright. Along with the other owner of Ultimate Pools, Steve Westlake. They were both incredibly proud and humbled by the volume of awards bestowed on our team.

At the end of the awards ceremony, Warren asked for a moment to speak, and took to the floor to deliver a breathtaking message and to thank his people and the industry in the NZ native tongue, Maori. ‘He tangata, he tangata, he tangata’ – it is the people, the people, the people.’ he said.  As he struggled to get the words out, it was clear he was overcome with emotion. There was not a dry eye in the house.

Photos of the Ultimate team at the SPASA NZ awards night:

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8xNTg4MzAwLnJzcw/episode/QnV6enNwcm91dC04OTYzODQz?sa=X&ved=0CAQQkfYCahcKEwiI59KpiN_yAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQCg&hl=en-NZ

 

Q. Thank you for taking time to speak with us! Is there anything else you feel we should share with our readers about your SPASA winning pools or your experience on winning a SPASA award?

Rainbow:

We think this is a great opportunity to really show our customers and the industry how passionate we are about what we do. We are great believers in being at the forefront of development in the industry and being leaders in our field. One example of this is recently being announced as the first Climate Care certified Pool Builder in NZ. We would wholeheartedly encourage other pool builders to join associations such as SPASA who advocate professionalism in our industry and help us to demonstrate this to the community.

The post Spotlight: Ultimate Pools tell us a little about their BIG 2021 SPASA NZ wins! appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

SPASA Australia National Awards 2021:

• GOLD Award of ‘In-ground Fibreglass Spa’: Local Pools & Spas

6.2m Plunge with X-Trainer Spa in colour Pearl. Installed by Local Pools & Spas

SPASA Awards of Excellence NSW Award Winners 2021:

• GOLD Award of “NSW In-ground Fibreglass Spa’: Local Pools & Spas
• GOLD Award of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool up to $40,000’: Local Pools & Spas

8.2m X-Trainer Slimline in colour Ice Blue. Installed by Local Pools and Spas

• GOLD Award of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool up to $60,000’: Local Pools & Spas

10.2m X-Trainer in colour Pacific. Installed by Local Pools & Spas

• GOLD Award of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool over $60,000’: Compass Pools Sydney

7.2m X-Trainer with acrylic panel in Quartz. Installed by Compass Pools Sydney

• Highly Commended of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool over $60,000’: Compass Pools Sydney
• Highly Commended of ‘NSW Display Pool or Centre’: Local Pools & Spas
• Highly Commended of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool & Spa Combination’: Compass Pools Sydney

SPASA New Zealand National Awards of Excellence 2021

• Acknowledgement of Industry Service – Warren Wright (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Pool Landscape Design’: Pools for Canterbury

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Pools for Canterbury.

• GOLD Award for ‘Construction Tradesperson of the Year’: Steve Westlake (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Enclosed or Indoor pool’: Ultimate Pools
• GOLD Award for ‘Operational Excellence’: Chelsea Perkins (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD for ‘Fibreglass Lap Pool’: Ultimate Pools

20m Fastlane in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools

• GOLD Award for ‘Fibreglass Pool over $60,000’: Ultimate Pools

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools

• • GOLD Award for ‘Display Pool or Centre’: Pools for Canterbury

10.2m X-Trainer in colour Pacific. Pool installed by Pools for Canterbury

• GOLD Award for ‘Pool Sales Representative’: Jeremy Greco (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Pool & Spa Barrier Inspector’: Rainbow Morris (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Pool Designer’: Rainbow Morris (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Best Fibreglass Pool Builder’: Ultimate Pools

7.2m X-Trainer in colour Sapphire. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools

• • GOLD award for ‘Business of the Year’: Ultimate Pools
  • GOLD Award for ‘Pool of the Year’: Ultimate Pools

20m Fastlane in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools.

• Highly Commended Award for fibreglass pool over $60,000: Pools for Canterbury
• Highly Commended Award for Poolside North Shore in Best Single Location Pool Store: Ultimate Pools
• Highly Commended Award for Fibreglass Pool up to $60,000: Ultimate Pools
• Highly Commended Award for In-field Service Technician: Trevor Newton (Ultimate Pools)
• Highly Commended Award for Prefabricated Composite Pool over $30,000: Ultimate Pools

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Quartz. Installed by Ultimate Pools.

The post Compass Pools Dealers win SPASA Australia and NZ Awards 2021! appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

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Some pools cost less to purchase upfront, but once you factor in repairs, replacements and ongoing running expenses, they often end up costing more than you think. Below we will look at the price points for different above ground pools, from inflatable options all the way to fiberglass and concrete. We will also discuss other important financial factors to consider in the long run for your pool.

The cost of above ground pool options

The cost of Above Ground Portable and Inflatable Pools

Portable and inflatable pools come in a variety of different options, sizes and price points. They range from as little as $50 to $2000+ and are readily available at many retail outlets, such as Bunnings or K-Mart. The pros of a portable or inflatable pool are that they are affordable, have an instant set up, and are a great way to test how often your family will actually use a swimming pool without spending a large amount of money. Many people who invest in these types of pools often go on to invest in a more permanent option in the future.

There are of course plenty of downsides to these kinds of pools too; for starters they are not a permanent option. They are hard and sometimes expensive to look after and will not contribute any added value to your home in the future. If you are looking for a permanent option then it is unlikely that a store-bought, low-cost pool will be the right solution for you. Just remember that despite these pools being temporary, they do require the same amount of fencing as any other pool within Australia. So, make sure to factor in the cost of swimming pool fencing into your above ground pool cost budget.

The cost of Above Ground Vinyl Liner Pools

Above ground vinyl liner pools are a more permanent (but still affordable) option. The initial purchase cost for vinyl pools can start anywhere from $10,000 +. The pros of these pools are that they are usually installed by professionals, look slightly more traditional in style, and can have a longer life span then a store-bought portable pool. Keep in mind that above ground vinyl liner pools need their liners changed around every 6-10 years (some last longer) depending on the amount of natural wear and tear they endure.

They are also more easily damaged than fiberglass or concrete options. A replacement liner costs anywhere between $3000 to $4000+ plus installation.

The cost of Above Ground Modular Pools

Modular pools are permanent self-supporting above ground pools that are pre-made and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Modular pools can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000+ and are often designed to be ‘plug and play’, meaning that installation is usually pretty quick. These types of pools, such as the ones from The Little Pool Co can be landscaped and designed into your backyard space any way you choose.

This cost depends on your style choices, the materials and the professionals used to help create your backyard dreams. Unlike above ground vinyl-liner pools, modular options last a much longer time and there generally is less upkeep required to keep them looking good over their lifetime.

Little Pool Co are a great above ground modular pool option

Shipping container pools and pre-moulded concrete plunge pools are also a good example of pre-made modular options. When choosing a modular pool pay careful attention to the materials from which your pool is constructed; will they stand the test of time or are they likely to degrade over the years. Light weight options usually make the installation process cheaper and faster (easily manoeuvred with smaller cranes).

The cost of Above Ground Fibreglass Pools

The cost of installing an above ground fibreglass pool depends on the method you choose to use for your pool’s installation: the traditional way, or with a purpose-built above ground fibreglass pool.

The Traditional Way

Most fibreglass pools need to be installed fully within the ground in order to prevent the water pressure from bowing the sides of the pool shell. Essentially, the ground is used as a barrier to prevent the sides from expanding when the pool is filled with water. Therefore, to install a fibreglass pool above ground, extensive earthworks and retaining walls need to be built to ensure that the pool sits fully in the ground (in other words raise the ground not the pool).

In some cases, these earthworks can cost up to $30,000+ depending on the amount of work needed to transform your backyard into a suitable inground installation site. This price does not include the cost of the pool itself, which can range from $25,000 to over $70,000, depending on the size, shape, features and landscaping options that you choose. The end result will be a beautiful, top quality looking pool, but it requires a larger financial outlay than an ordinary inground pool.

Purpose-Built Above Ground Fibreglass Pool (MaxiRib^TM Technology)

Compass MaxiRib ™ above ground fibreglass pools are designed and manufactured with special support Ribs attached to the outside of the pool shell. These Ribs provide the support needed for the walls to not bow under pressure when the pool is full. These purpose-built above ground fibreglass pools save on the cost of earthworks and retaining walls, as they can support themselves without needing to be fully in ground.  The MaxiRib^TM system prevents the need for extensive earthworks and often allows you to come up with a design that looks much better then raising the overall ground level around your pool.

Purpose built above ground fibreglass pools (like Compass MaxiRib^TM Pools) can range in price depending on your installation site, but often cost anywhere between $12,000 and $25,000 on top of the cost of a standard inground pool shell. This may seem like quite a high upfront cost, but in many cases using this system will allow you to build an above ground pool for less than the cost of an above ground concrete pool or less than the cost of doing substantial earthworks and retaining.

Compass Pools has over 25 years of experience, proven results and knowledge when it comes to installing above ground fibreglass pools. Our MaxiRib^TM technology allows for Compass Pools to be installed out of ground any way you choose- whether that’s half in, ¾ out, or fully above the ground. This type of technology gives you much more flexibility for installation when compared to the traditional installation methods.

Compass MaxiRib Pool installed by Central Pools

Concrete Above Ground Pools

Concrete above ground pools cost often above $50,000 but can stretch well above $100,000 depending on the shape and size of the pool. Concrete pools often cost more because they usually require a lot of prep work, designing, engineering, and expensive materials, such as concrete and extra steel to provide structural support. Above ground concrete pools usually take 9-12 weeks to install (minimum) rather than days. One draw card of concrete is that you can create any shape, size or depth of your choosing, just keep in mind that these freedoms usually come with a higher price tag than fibreglass options.

What other costs should you be aware of when purchasing an above ground pool?

1. The cost of Pool fencing

Pool fencing within Australian is a legal requirement, and all pool fencing must adhere to your local government standards. Pool fencing can range in price depending on the product used, but often the price starts at $100 per m for standard powdered coated aluminium options.

2. Landscaping

The way you design your backyard oasis around your pool is entirely up to you. When it comes to landscaping, the sky is the limit and you can decide how much you want to spend on your designs.

3. Water Filtration and Circulation

When choosing a pool, it is important to consider the cost of water filtration and chemicals. A pool that is self- cleaning, such as Compass Pool’s Vantage technology can help to reduce the amount of money and time you spend cleaning your pool.

Thinking of an above ground fibreglass pool?

Authorised Compass dealers are your local experts in installing top quality Compass fibreglass pools, whether partially or completely out of the ground. They can help you design your project and provide you with a cost estimate. Find your local Compass pool dealer now to get your free quote on an above ground Compass pool.

The post How Much Do Above Ground Pools Cost? appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Buying a pool is a big deal for most people, so it stands to reason that we all have a desire to make smart choices that get the best value for money from our investment.

So begs the question, is a self-cleaning pool really as good as it sounds and is it worth the extra investment? Well, the best answer to that is don’t take our word for it. There are literally tens of thousands of families across Australia and New Zealand and who are enjoying resort style living at home thanks to their self-cleaning compass pools. We’re willing to bet that they are happy to share their positive reviews with anyone who asks. If you find yourself in need of a little reassurance, why not ask your local Compass Pool dealer to put you directly in touch with local pool owners who can tell you about their experience?

Did you know that Compass Pools Australia is the highest rating pool manufacturer on www.productreview.com.au?

Compass Pool owners love sharing the news about Compass Self-cleaning pools

We recently received this wonderful feedback from a Compass Pool owner in New Zealand.  After moving to a new house with an existing pool they have the unique insight into the differences between owning a self-cleaning pool and a traditional in-ground fibreglass pool. We think their story captures the value the Vantage system perfectly…

“When our family moved to a new house two years ago, our self-cleaning Compass Pool was definitely the hardest thing to leave behind.

We’re based in New Zealand and our Local Compass Pools Dealers were Central Pools. They had installed the sparkling new X-trainer about a year earlier when we had no intention of leaving any time soon. But the right property unexpectedly presented itself and we were forced to downgrade from our Compass Pool, while we upgraded our growing family’s living space.

The decision to install a swimming pool had been hugely exciting for our family, especially our two young children. However, at the time I did have my reservations about the ongoing work required and how much time I would spend cleaning and maintaining the pool, versus swimming in it.

Then Steffan from Central Pools told us about the Vantage self-cleaning pool system that was fast gaining a positive reputation among busy families.

I admit both my husband and I were sceptical. Could a pool really clean itself properly, or would it do half the job while we were left to clean up the rest with a hand skimmer or vacuum?

We are busy business owners with a young family – the last thing we wanted was another job to add to the home maintenance list, or for the enjoyment of the pool to be outweighed by the cleaning burden.

We trusted the advice we were given and invested in a X-trainer Compass Pool with the Vantage self-cleaning system. It was a decision we did not regret – one that made the pool the hardest part of our beloved first home to leave behind. If it had been at all economical, or realistic, we would have pulled it out of the ground and taken it with us!

The self-cleaning pool was exactly that – self-cleaning. Not once did I clean the pool and it constantly looked sparkling and added an attractive focal point to the backyard.

In sharp contrast, the pool we own now is not self-cleaning.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s beautiful and I am very grateful to be a pool owner, but it does require a lot more effort and attention to keep it looking great. We have purchased a robotic pool cleaner which does the job for us, but the pool is large and it takes at least two cycles to clean it. The robot cannot be in the pool when the kids are swimming and it’s quite heavy to lift out alone, certainly for a child.  The basket inside it also needs regular emptying – which is not a glamorous job – and the robot will eventually require new parts or full replacement.

There were other benefits to our Compass Pool too…

The Vantage in-floor cleaning system kept the water moving, circulating it thoroughly from the bottom of the pool to the surface. It makes sense that if any kind of water sits for too long it becomes stagnant and a breeding ground for algae and bacteria. Without this complete water movement, our current pool requires more chemicals to keep it clean and healthy and more effort to keep the water balanced.

The water circulation from the Vantage self-cleaning system also eliminated unpleasant cold spots in the pool. The nozzles were flush mounted into the fibreglass pool shell and sent all the debris to a collection zone, pushing it towards a drain on the pool floor. The whole lot was subtle, effective and went on behind the scenes while we enjoyed the pool.

The self-cleaning system required little effort on our part– it truly does work.

If we were looking at installing another pool, our family would certainly opt for a Compass Pool with the Vantage self-cleaning system again.”

Michele H, NZ

How much extra does it cost to upgrade to a self-cleaning pool?

The Cost of upgrading to a self-cleaning pool varies depending on the size and shape of your pool. In most cases the extra investment falls between $8,000 and $10,000.

When deciding if adding the Vantage cleaning and circulation system is right for you, it pays to consider the following points:

1. Vantage significantly reduces your pool chemical consumption (approx. 50% less).
2. Vantage makes it easier and more cost effective to heat your pool.
3. Vantage eliminates the need to buy expensive and cumbersome cleaning equipment (Like robotic cleaners).
4. Vantage reduces your need for costly pool valet services.
5. Vantage saves you from having to spend your valuable time on daily pool maintenance.
6. The main feature of your backyard will always look great and be ready to use.
7. Vantage adds appeal to future buyers and therefore adds value to your home

Read more 5-star reviews from happy Compass Pool owners who have self-cleaning pools.

The post Self-cleaning pools vs robot pool cleaners appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

X-Trainer 7.2 Maxi Rib self-cleaning pool Quartz colour, Inverloch VIC

Above ground, Compass Pools Melbourne, Quartz, Sunpod, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 7.2By CPAAugust 25, 2020

X-Trainer 7.2m long Maxi Rib pool built partially above the ground in Inverloch, Victoria by Compass Pools Melbourne.

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Sanctuary 9.4 Self-cleaning pool Quartz colour, Ferntree Gully VIC

Quartz, Above ground, Compass Pools Melbourne, Glass wall, Sanctuary, Sanctuary 9.4By CPAAugust 25, 2020

A self-cleaning Sanctuary 9.4m long fibreglass pool installed partially above the ground in Ferntree Gully, Victoria.

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Plunge 5.0 Self-cleaning saltwater pool Richmond VIC

Above ground, Compass Pools Melbourne, Glass wall, Grey Marble, Plunge & Courtyard, Plunge 5.0By CPAMay 22, 2020Leave a comment

This free-standing fibreglass self-cleaning plunge pool with port holes completely transformed the inner city Richmond courtyard.

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X-Trainer 10.2 Self-cleaning pool Beach colour, Trafalgar VIC

Above ground, Beach, Compass Pools Melbourne, Glass wall, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 10.2By CPAMay 22, 2020Leave a comment

X-Trainer 10.2 m long fibreglass pool with a glass edge installed on a sloping site in the country by Compass Pools Melbourne.

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X-Trainer 7.15 SL Self-cleaning pool Atlantic colour, Aberfeldie VIC

Above ground, Atlantic, Compass Pools Melbourne, Dealer, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 7.15 SLBy CPAMay 8, 2020Leave a comment

X-Trainer 7.15 SL (slim) fibreglass self-cleaning pool in Atlantic colour built on a sloping site for Louise’s family in Aberfeldie, Victoria.

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X-Trainer 8.2 Self-cleaning pool Pearl colour, Geelong VIC

Inground, Pearl, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 8.2By CPAMay 8, 2020Leave a comment

X-Trainer 8.2 m fibreglass self-cleaning pool in the Pearl Bi-luminite colour built by Gordon Ave Pools & Spas for Dean’s family in Geelong.

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X-Trainer 7.2 Self-cleaning pool Quartz colour, Geelong VIC

Inground, Quartz, Water wall, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 7.2By CPAMay 8, 2020Leave a comment

A self-cleaning X-Trainer 7.2 m long fibreglass pool built inground for Ebony’s family in Geelong, Victoria by Gordon Ave Pools & Spas.

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Vogue 8.2 Self-cleaning pool Royal Blue colour, Melbourne VIC

Deck jets, Inground, Royal Blue, Vogue, Vogue 8.2By CPAMay 8, 2020Leave a comment

Vogue 8.2 fibreglass self-cleaning pool in Royal Blue colour built before the house was finished in Melbourne, Victoria.

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Fastlane 10.3 Self-cleaning lap pool with spa and beach, Mornington Peninsula VIC

Above ground, Beach, Evolution, Fastlane, Fastlane 10.3, Glass wall, Melbourne, Mornignton Peninsula, Pool & spa comboBy CPAApril 4, 2020

Awarded Fastlane 10.3 m long fibreglass lap pool & spa combo with a beach add-on built on a sloping site on the Mornington Peninsula.

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Vogue 9.4 Self-cleaning pool with Sunpod, Doreen VIC

Inground, Quartz, Sunpod, Vogue, Vogue 9.4By CPAApril 4, 2020Leave a comment

Fabulous self-cleaning Vogue 9.4 fibreglass pool from Compass Pools Australia installed inground for Nicole’s family in Doreen, Victoria.

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Researching staycation ideas? Happy Compass self-cleaning pool owners will tell you that having a pool installed was one of the est decision they’ve made.

Browse more pool projects

Looking at staycation ideas? What about having one of these Compass Pools in your backyard?

Browse the gallery by pool shape

The post Looking for Staycation ideas? Consider a Swimming Pool! appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Relax 6.3

If you have a small backyard, you don’t have to miss out on the joys of pool ownership. Our Relax 6.3 pool is perfect for transforming a small area into an oasis.

DIMENSIONS

PICK COLOUR

3D Representation

If you have a small backyard you don’t have to miss out on the joys of pool ownership. Our Relax 6.3 pool is perfect for transforming a small area into an oasis.

Some shapes in the Plunge Pool range may differ from the 3D design shown. Please check the 2D pool outline for specific design detail.

Pool Specifications

LENGTH	WIDTH	SHALLOW END	DEEP END
6.3m	2.33m	1.36m	1.36m

Plunge Pool 3D Rotation

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EXPLORE OUR PLUNGE AND COURTYARD SWIMMING POOLS INSTALLATIONS

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Answers to questions anybody thinking of buying a pool should ask themselves before choosing which pool to buy

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6 FREQUENT QUESTIONS
INSTANT DOWNLOAD

Answers to questions anybody thinking of buying a pool should ask themselves before choosing which pool to buy

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THE BI-LUMINITE CERAMIC COLOUR DIFFERENCE

So that your plunge pool looks better and lasts longer

Amazing 3D colours that only Compass Pools can offer Bi-luminite™ technology allows Compass Pools to provide a 10 year comprehensive cosmetic warranty*. All Bi-luminite™ ceramic pools are protected with ArmourShield (an extra layer of vinyl ester resin), so that your swimming pool maintains its stunning good looks for longer, and to protect it from the effects of long-term immersion in water. But if you’re looking to make some savings, then we also have the Vivid colour series that is still exclusive to Compass Pools, with our large colour chip technology creating amazing water colours.

The post Relax 6.3 appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Custom Contemporary Pool

There's a Contemporary pool to suit every backyard. Deep in the centre and shallow at both ends - perfect for family fun. Now up to 20 metres long!

DIMENSIONS

PICK COLOUR

3D Representation

There’s a contemporary to suit every backyard. Deep in the centre and shallow at both ends – perfect for family fun – ideal for games such as volleyball. This Contemporary Custom Lenth pool can be up to 20m long as is 4.15m wide.

The Contemporary Custom Length 3D model will differ from the 3D design. Please check the 2D view of the pool shape below for specific design detail.

Pool Specifications

LENGTH	WIDTH	SHALLOW END	CENTRE DEPTH
up to 20m	4.15m	1.23m	1.61m

Browse all sizes of the Contemporary pool shape

Pool 3D Rotation

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ADD YOURSELF TO HAPPY CONTEMPORARY FIBREGLASS SWIMMING POOL OWNERS

FREE INFO PACK

6 FREQUENT QUESTIONS
INSTANT DOWNLOAD

Answers to questions anybody thinking of buying a pool should ask themselves before choosing which pool to buy

GET IT NOW

FREE INFO PACK

6 FREQUENT QUESTIONS
INSTANT DOWNLOAD

Answers to questions anybody thinking of buying a pool should ask themselves before choosing which pool to buy

GET IT NOW

THE BI-LUMINITE CERAMIC COLOUR DIFFERENCE

Amazing 3D colours that only Compass Pools can offer Bi-luminite™ technology allows Compass Pools to provide a 10 year comprehensive cosmetic warranty*. All Bi-luminite™ ceramic pools are protected with ArmourShield (an extra layer of vinyl ester resin), so that your swimming pool maintains its stunning good looks for longer, and to protect it from the effects of long-term immersion in water. But if you’re looking to make some savings, then we also have the Vivid colour series that is still exclusive to Compass Pools, with our large colour chip technology creating amazing water colours.

The post Custom Contemporary Pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

What are other reasons why portable swimming pools are so popular, and what are their drawbacks? What options for portable swimming pools do you have available in your area?

We’ll go over everything you need to know about a portable plunge pool, and you can decide whether or not you want to purchase one for your own backyard.

Defining a Portable Pool

Portable pools use prefabricated shells that are quick and easy to install in your yard. When you look at portable pools for sale, you’ll notice that they come in a large array of shapes and colours. This allows you to tailor your purchase to your yard size and shape with minimal difficulty. Portable pools also eliminate the need for time-consuming and expensive construction. And, you won’t have to worry about having a lot of additional space in your yard for the company to install them.

All of this means that you can buy your new portable swimming pool relatively cheap, no matter what your budget may be. Portable pools are very popular with small families, couples and single people who want a swimming pool but don’t want to spend thousands to get one.

Choosing a Portable Pool Type

One of the first things you want to look for when you look at portable pools for sale is the type. There are five main types you can consider, and picking the correct one for your needs and space will help you get the most out of it. We outlined them for you below.

1. Portable Plunge Pool

A portable plunge pool is much shorter and narrower than a traditional pool, but it is deeper. It can have a fibreglass body, which is very durable. Fibreglass is also resistant to bacteria and algae, reducing your cleaning time. Fibreglass comes built to last your lifetime with minimal maintenance, so it is on the high end of portable pool prices. The larger upfront cost pays for itself over time, though.

2. Shipping Container Pool

A shipping container pool is an extremely popular option throughout Australia because you can put it in a broad range of spaces. It has a shipping container exterior with a fibreglass pool insert. This type of portable pools features a narrow design that is great for swimming laps. And, all you need is a flat area such as a concrete slab to sit it on. You plug it in, fill it up and it’s ready to use.

3. Little Pools

Next up is Little Pools. These portable pools come in two shapes, and they fit perfectly in a lot of backyards that don’t have a lot of space. At Compass Pools, we work in conjuncture with them, and we’re one of Australia’s leading fibreglass pool manufacturers. This means you get the latest technology and techniques in each pool design. You’ll also get the benefit of having the durability and strength of a traditional fibreglass pool without breaking your budget.

4. Vinyl-Lined Pool

Another type of portable pools for sale features is a vinyl liner. It is one of the cheapest options available for portable swimming pools. You’ll get a metal frame to support the pool itself and make it stable. There is a resin base that you line with your vinyl liner before you fill the pool for use. You can choose from different designs, shapes and sizes. However, you will have to replace the vinyl liner every five to seven years because it’ll break down over time.

5. Plastic Pool

Arguably the cheapest choice on the list, a plastic pool is something many people consider because it’s quick and convenient. These pools come in sizes and shapes that allow both adults and children to enjoy them. They’re very prone to damage, though. It’s easy to poke a hole in the side or the bottom that you will then have to patch. The upside is they’re easy to break down and take with you.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Portable Swimming Pools

Now that you know the types of portable swimming pools available, we’ll break down some of the biggest benefits and drawbacks of owning one. This way, you can decide if the benefits outweigh the risks and whether or not these are good pools for your family to use.

Four Benefits of Setting up a Portable Pool

First up is the benefits. There are several reasons why portable pools are so popular. These include:

Benefit One – Portability

The most obvious advantage of these pools is their portability factor. If you move, you can easily pack up your pool and move it with you. This is a stark difference from an inground pool where you’d have no choice but to leave it behind. It’s easy to take your portable plunge pool with you, particularly if you choose to buy a Little Pool or a shipping container pool. You can load it up on a flatbed truck, move it to your new home, unload it, set it up and enjoy it with minimal fuss. 

Benefit Two – Quick Installation

The second benefit of owning a portable pool is the quick installation process. Unlike a traditional pool where you have to have a company come out, survey your yard and excavate it to fit the pool, a portable pool requires none of this. The company delivers the shell straight to your home and set it wherever you want, as long as it’s a flat piece of land. This is a very cost-effective way to go about getting a pool, and it’ll be ready to enjoy as soon as you hook it up to electricity and fill it. 

Benefit Three – Cost-Effective

With a traditional pool, you can easily expect to spend upwards of $50,000 to install it. Above-ground pools are cheaper than inground options, but they’re still very expensive. You have to pay for the pool itself and any excavation. If you choose a concrete pool, the costs go up to over $75,000 by the time you have your pool in. If your yard has difficult access, this adds more expenses. Portable pools are very cost-effective in this case because they can fit into tighter access areas and don’t require excavation.

Benefit Four – Family-Friendly

Since these types of pools come in different sizes and shapes, they’re very family-friendly. For example, you can get a portable swimming pool that is shallower than a traditional pool, and this is nice if you have a younger child around. You can also customise your pool to suit your needs with a broad range of options, and you’ll still come under the amount you’d spend if you tried to customise a traditional pool.

Four Drawbacks of Setting up a Portable Pool

Unfortunately, setting up a portable pool has some drawbacks, which will depend largely on the type of pool you pick out. 

Drawback One – Maintenance Costs

While you may save money upfront when you buy this type of pool, you could end up paying more in the long run for general maintenance and repairs. For example, if you pick out a vinyl-sided pool, you’ll have to replace the vinyl siding within five to seven years.

Pool chemicals and sunlight exposure will break it down and cause it to weaken. A plastic pool is easy to poke holes in and damage. Fibreglass, however, is very resistant to damage, and it can last years without needing any repairs. 

Drawback Two – Cleaning Requirements

No matter which type of pool you get, you’ll have to clean it. Unfortunately, some are far more labour-intensive than others. You’ll have to have a filter system in place with the water circulating, and you have to ensure you get the right chemical balance to keep the water safe. This goes for any pool, although fibreglass pools are naturally resistant to bacteria or algae growth, and this means less cleaning overall. 

Drawback Three – Look

A lot of people think that inground pools simply look better than above-ground pools. Many portable pools can’t compete with the sleek look of a traditional pool, especially the fibreglass pools. Your staycation by the pool would simply feel different if you have a cheap portable pool installed. But, you can add different decking options around your pool to make them more attractive. You get the choice of different cladding for the pool’s exterior, and this can help fix the look of your portable pool. 

Drawback Four – Size and Shape Restraints

Depending on the type of pool you pick out, you could find that you have only a few size and shape options available. You can customise your pool further with extras, but you might not get the pool of your dreams. Additionally, portable pools are generally better for smaller families. And, if you have a big family, there may not be one big enough for them to enjoy at once.

Consider a Portable Pool from Little Pools

At Compass Pools, we have an impressive range of fibreglass pools available, however, none of them would really be considered portable. Even if they are built above the ground, they are designed to be landscaped around. As such, it is not easy to simply disconnect them, lift them off the ground, load onto a truck and move to your new home. However, Little Pools have a great choice of high-quality fibreglass pools that you can take with you when moving if you decide so. Their portable pools for sale can fit into a large budget range and because they are powered by Compass Pools knowledge and technologies, they take great pride in offering fantastic looking and durable portable fibreglass pools for Australian pool owners.

You can take a look at their website to find out more about the products on offer. And in case you realise that you would consider a permanent pool installation, we invite you to contact our professional and friendly team with any questions by dropping by your local Compass Pools dealership. They are ready to answer your questions and discuss your requirements and ideas with you!

The post Why a Portable Pool Could Be a Good Choice – Four Reasons appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

If you’re considering buying a cheap pool, this is for you. We’ll go over everything you need to know about buying the cheapest pools available, and we’ll give you several alternatives that you may want to consider. This way, you know you’re going to get the most bang for your buck with this large investment.

Factors that Influence Pool Costs

What factors determine whether a pool gets a cheap or high price? Are some factors more influential? There are several factors that go into deciding your pool’s final costs, and there’s a big difference between high-end pools and the cheapest pools. They include:

• Size – A larger pool is more expensive than a smaller pool. It costs more to manufacture, transport and install. The running costs are also higher with a larger pool because you’ll have to buy more chemicals to keep it safe.
• Design – A simple pool design like a rectangle with no frills is going to be much more cost-effective than an elaborate pool. If you add things like steps, jets and have more complicated features, you’ll pay for it in the pool’s final price.
• Inground or Above Ground – Above ground pools require you to have a level area like a concrete slab to put them on, and this equates to a more affordable pool. An in-ground pool means you have to dig out the yard to suit your pool. It’s more labour-intensive, so it’s going to cost more.
• Yard Access – When the company transports your pool to your home, they’ll have to get into your backyard to install the pool. If there are things in the way that the company has to work around, this will drive the cost up. The same goes for yards with odd shapes that the installation company has to accommodate to get your pool in place.
• Pool Material – Plastic pools are examples of extremely cheap pools, but they don’t last long. Other materials include fibreglass and concrete. While you can’t call fibreglass cheap, it is more affordable than a concrete pool. Both last longer than plastic, though.

Concrete isn’t the pool you want if you’re after a low-cost pool. This is the most expensive and labour-intensive pool out there, even when compared to fibreglass. The company has to build your concrete pool from scratch right at your home, making it a very long and expensive process. A prefabricated pool like a fibreglass one will only take a few days, and this timeline goes down if you want it above ground.

Your budget will dictate the pool you end up with. You may be able to afford a more durable option if you sacrifice some of the extra features you want, such as an infinity edge or water features.

Above Ground Pools vs Inground Pools

Now that you know which factors play the biggest role in whether a pool has a cheap price tag or an expensive one, we’ll go over your options for an in-ground pool and above ground pool. This will help you understand your options and tailor your purchase to your needs and wants.

Above Ground Pools

Above-ground pools give you several awesome options. The installation process does not involve excavation, reducing the costs. All you need for your above ground pool to sit on is a level area, as well as an electrical hookup close by. Many people use a concrete slab instead of trying to level the ground because the ground can settle over time and knock the pool askew.

If you have a sloped yard that you don’t want to or can’t level, Maxi Rib technology allows you to have a gorgeous infinity pool. With the help of this pioneering technology, you can have the pool you want, and you won’t have to spend so much on excavation.

Once you get it on your level area and hook it up, all you have to do is fill it up and it’s ready to go. This adds a convenience factor to this affordable pool. You have a choice of several different above ground pools, including vinyl-lined, fibreglass and inflatable. They come with features such as metal frames or reinforced vinyl or plastic shells.

Many of these above ground pools come as complete kits. Once the company delivers and positions them, they’re ready to fill and use. If you decide to buy the cheapest pools available, you’ll spend more on maintenance and repairs to keep your pool in working condition than you would if you go for a slightly more expensive above ground pool.

Vinyl-lined Pools 

Vinyl-lined pools have a straightforward setup process, and you can take them down and transport them if you move to another house. These types of affordable pools usually come with repair kits because they can get damaged. You can tear the lining, and then you have to patch it to make it waterproof again. Every five to seven years, you’ll have to replace the liner.

Cheap Inflatable Swimming Pools

Next are the cheapest pools of all, the inflatable pools. These are plastic pools that you blow up and fill with water. Since this is a very quick process, you can use it within hours. However, they’re not durable at all. They’re very easy to damage, and you can rip the walls or flooring if you’re not careful. They’re convenient, though – you can pack them up in the winter months or if you need to move them.

Fibreglass Pools 

When you get a fibreglass pool, you’re getting a fibreglass shell that will last a lifetime with proper care. Compass Pools offers Maxi Rib technology that supports the fibreglass shell. It fixes the pool to the ground or onto a concrete slab, and you can install it on sloping or uneven terrain. The company delivers the shell to you, so installation is relatively quick.

They do come pre-designed, so it’s not possible to customise them as much. However, there are several shapes, sizes and features you can pick from. Fibreglass pools also have bacteria and algae-resistant surfaces to make them more hygienic. You won’t use a lot of chemicals to clean them either, and you won’t have to resurface them. Although they definitely are not cheap pools, having a fibreglass pool installed is one of the best staycation ideas out there.

Inground Pools

Generally speaking, inground pools are always more expensive than the above ground pool. Whichever company installs your pool will have to excavate your backyard before they can install your pool, and this means creating the pool involves more work. These factors all cause the price to go up.

Another important factor that affects the cost of your inground pool is the size. Usually, a plunge pool is the cheapest pool because it’s much shorter and less wide than a traditional pool. However, they’re much deeper. This allows you to relax and enjoy your pool. But, it also means that the company has to perform more excavation work, so this may not be a feasible option for your budget.

There are three main inground pool types to choose from: vinyl-liner, fibreglass and concrete. We mentioned earlier that concrete pools are the most expensive and labour-intensive option available, so most people go for vinyl-liner or fibreglass. There is a huge selection of prefabricated designs available in several colours. They’re easier to install, and the company will deliver the pool straight to your yard and install it into the ground without having to build it up from square one.

This helps control the costs, but it can be expensive if you have a yard with a difficult access point or if your yard has an irregular shape. For a more affordable pool option, many people choose fibreglass instead of vinyl-lined. Fibreglass is more durable and stronger, and it can last a lifetime. It is also easy to clean, saving you time. Vinyl-lined pools, on the other hand, are prone to damage. You’ll have to replace the lining periodically as well.

Little Pools Are a Viable Option

If these options all sound like they may be out of your budget, try a Little Pool – it is on the more cost-effective end of the spectrum. Little Pools are 100% above ground pool, saving you on labour costs. You’ll need an electric connection and a concrete slab for your pool to sit on, and you’re ready to fill it and use it. You’ll get a complete kit when you order your Little Pool that features steps, lighting and a filtration system. If you have money left over, you can get some nice extras.

Little Pools use the latest technology to ensure you get the best build quality on the market. We are Australia’s leading manufacturer of in-ground, full-sized fibreglass pools. And, our partnership with Little Pools means that their products are as long-lasting and durable as traditional fibreglass pools, and they’ll require minimal maintenance to last for years.

This does cause the price to go up slightly. But, it can be worth it to pay more upfront because the pool will more than makeup for it with the low-maintenance design.

Check Compass Pools’ Durable and Lasting Fibreglass Pools

Anyone who wants a more durable pool and is willing to pay slightly more for it should take a look at the fibreglass pools available at Compass Pools. We have options available for a broad range of budgets, and we create the best fibreglass pools in Australia. Our pools use the highest-quality materials available combined with the newest technology on the market.

If you want to know more about our fibreglass pools, our blog has dozens of articles available. We have everything you need to get the most out of your new pool. Are you interested in learning more? If so, you should contact our team of dedicated pool experts at your local Compass Pools dealership. We’ll discuss your options and help you pick the best pool without breaking your budget.

The post Are Cheap Swimming Pools Worth It? appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Below, we’ll go over all of the important factors you want to consider when you’re trying to decide between a plastic pool and something else. These include things like the biggest reasons you’d want a paddling pool, disadvantages, costs and more.

Defining a Plastic Pool

First, what is a plastic pool? If I ask you to imagine an inflatable pool, chances are you’re going to think of the tiny kid’s pools that younger children splash around in. However, there are current plastic pools large enough for several adults to sit comfortably in at one time.

The variety has also evolved over the years. The basic plastic pool is just an oversized paddling pool without many special features. Then, you can go a step or two up and get inflatable pools that have metal frames, or those that have a steel frame with numerous layers of plastic over it to create a more durable option. Vinyl pools are at the top of the plastic pool range, and you can install them above or in-ground. The more sophisticated your plastic pool gets, the more expensive it’ll be to install and maintain.

Five Big Reasons to Consider Getting a Plastic Pool

Why would someone go through all the trouble of investing in a blow-up swimming pool that will break down much quicker than something like a fibreglass one? There are several big reasons for this, and we’ve picked out the most important ones for you below.

1. Cost

As much as it stings, your budget plays a huge role in which pool you choose for your yard. Plastic pools are, in general, much more cost-effective than fibreglass or concrete ones upfront. Buying and installing them don’t cost nearly as much as it would if you went with something more durable. And, maintaining it won’t break your budget either. You can get a plastic pool for as little as $200 or less, and you can get one large enough at this price for the entire family to enjoy.

2. Convenience

Convenience is another big part of why people choose to buy blow-up swimming pools over something more durable and long-lasting. You can usually buy one of these pools, transport it to your home and set it up in your yard without the help of any pool specialists. Additionally, you most likely won’t need any further advice on how to maintain your pool. Some plastic pools don’t come with a pump system to worry about unless you start getting into the higher-end models. All of this boosts your savings and the convenience factor.

3. Easier Access

If you have a pool sitting above-ground, it can be difficult for smaller children to get in and out. Many plastic pools sit lower to the ground, and their walls can bend. As such, your kid can easily step or slide over the wall and into the pool. They can also get back out again without any huge fuss. Depending on the pool size, this also adds a safety element – inflatable pools usually aren’t as big as other types, so you won’t have to worry as much about your kid having an accident. You should monitor them constantly, though.

4. Instant Gratification

If you have kids at home that are too anxious to get in the pool, it can seem like it’s taking ages to fill up and get the water ready for swimming. Blow up swimming pools can give you a feeling of almost instant gratification. You bring one home, set it up, fill it with water and let your kid go. This is excellent for those hot and humid summer days where you just want to cool off and have a place to splash around and have fun right at the moment. Higher-end pools are slightly more complicated and can take more time to install.

5. Portability

Unlike some pools that don’t move once you get them in place, plastic pools are highly portable. You can easily drain them, fold them up and move them from space to space. This is a nice touch if you don’t have a concrete area for your pool to sit and you don’t want it in one place all summer. Most of them are relatively lightweight once emptied and dried, so it’s not too much for one or two people to move them to a new space or fold up to store for the winter months.

Plastic Pools and Safety

Unfortunately, it can be very easy to overlook the safety aspect of your plastic pool because it’s a portable, above-ground option. Your plastic pool has to meet Australian Standard 1926 if it’s over 300 mm deep. This standard dictates that you have to surround your plastic pool with a 1.2-metre-high fence on all sides, and every gate or door must self-latch or self-close.

The outside of the pool’s fence area has to have a non-climbable zone of 900 mm. Inside this 900 mm, you can’t have anything that anyone could climb on, such as furniture or rocks. The goal is to create a flat area that doesn’t allow someone to use it as a stand to climb over the fence.

Downsides of Blow Up Swimming Pools

Plastic Pool Alternatives

If an inflatable pool doesn’t sound like something feasible for your yard, there are several nice alternatives you can consider. They’ll generally last longer, and buying and maintaining them don’t have to break the bank. If space is an issue, consider installing a Little Pool. These are affordable, high-quality fibreglass pools. They have all of the latest technology available on the market incorporated into their design, making them a very safe and durable choice.

Little Pools are very compact, so it is easy to transport these plastic pool alternatives on trucks to your home. They also require very little site maintenance to prepare your yard. All you need to have is a level surface to set your pool. This could be straight on the ground, but a concrete slab is better. All you have to do is hook them up to electricity, fill them up and they’re ready to use. You get lighting, a filtration system, basic pool maintenance kit and more with each purchase. And, there are several colours and shapes available.

Little Pools are very affordable, and you won’t have to put in the same amount of maintenance to keep them looking nice day in and day out as you would a traditional pool. This results in more savings for you, and you can use your excess time to enjoy your pool to the fullest. Staying at home (and planning a staycation) near your Little Pool can be really relacing and exciting at the same time.

Another alternative is a plunge pool by Compass Pools. This pool is perfect for people who don’t have space for a traditional pool but want the durability that comes with having a fibreglass pool in their yard. This is another popular option because it can be very affordable in the long run. You will pay more upfront for them, but they pay for themselves because fibreglass can last for decades without any resurfacing required. The maintenance for a fibreglass pool is lower as well, and the fibreglass won’t erode due to the pool chemicals. It is still important you keep the chemicals well-balanced, though, to keep your pool healthy and safe.

Plunge pools come in eight different sizes, ranging from 2.85 m long and 2.1 m wide to 6.3 m long by 3.39 m wide. This gives you a slightly deeper pool that is very self-contained. They get up to 1.7 m deep, and this is more than deep enough for adults.

Compass Pools Has Fibreglass Pools That Will Last for Years

If you’re in the market for something slightly sturdier than a plastic pool, try Compass Pool’s fibreglass options. We have something for any aspiring pool owner, and our fibreglass pools are some of the best in Australia. They’re durable, and they have the best materials on the market incorporated into their design to ensure that you’re getting a lasting investment.

We’re dedicated to putting out quality products that encourage a love of swimming. Our blog features dozens of articles relating to everything about swimming and pools, and you can find great advice to help you get the most out of your new fibreglass pool.

Anyone who would like to know more about our line of compact pools should contact our expert team at your local Compass Pools dealership. We’re happy to answer your questions and guide you along to picking out the perfect pool for your space.

The post The Advantages and Disadvantages of Owning a Plastic Pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

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If you’re one of the many people who have wondered how to get a swimmer’s body, this article is here to help you. You might not achieve an Olympic gold medal – but you’ll definitely impress a few people on the beach!

What makes a swimmer body?

If you have looked at champion swimmers, you will have noticed that the male swimmer’s body and the female swimmer’s body have a lot of things in common:

1. They’re tall

Top male and female swimmers all tend to be tall. Many female swimmers are around 1.83 metres in height, with male swimmers usually even taller. A tall physique helps to improve swimming performance for a number of reasons:

• If you’re tall, it takes less strength and effort to move through the water, so you can keep swimming for longer without getting tired.
• A longer length of swimmer results in reduced wave drag, so the shape of a taller swimmer is more efficient in the pool.

2 They have long limbs

The classic swimmer body has long limbs and a long torso, usually with big hands and feet. Large hands on the ends of long arms act like oars, pushing the swimmer through the water more effectively. Large feet also help with propulsion because they work like fins.

3. They are toned without bulky muscles

The swimmer physique tends to be lean and toned. The muscles are defined without being too bulky. Certain muscles are noticeably more defined than others. These are:

• Shoulders. We all associate the swimmer’s body with broad shoulders. This is because the shoulder muscles are developed by swimming strokes, such as freestyle, butterfly or backstroke.
• Triceps. These are the muscles in the arms used to propel you through the water. All swimmers have clearly defined triceps because they are developed by repetitive arm movements in the pool.
• Latissimus dorsi. The lats are the large muscles located in the middle of the back. These are used in all swimming strokes, and they help to create the classic swimmer physique of a V-shaped upper body.
• Abdominals. All swimming strokes use the core muscles, so swimmers’ abs tend to be highly defined.
• Legs. Swimmers’ legs are powerful and toned without bulky muscle. Strong legs are needed for effective starts and turns, as well as better movement through the water, but too much muscle will increase drag, slowing you down.

Swimmers are also associated with low body fat. Swimming is a great cardio workout that burns a lot of calories and speeds up your metabolism. This cuts down body fat and gives the appearance of a slimmer waist, which is something we also associate with the classic swimmer body.

How to get a swimmer’s body

It’s true that some of what makes a champion swimmer is impossible to achieve through training. Height, limb length and the size of your hands and feet are all determined by genetics, so no amount of exercise will change them.

However, no matter your natural shape and size, there are still a number of things you can do to achieve the lean, toned appearance of a top swimmer. Here are our three top tips for achieving a swimmers body.

1. Swim regularly

This should really go without saying. Achieving a swimmer body takes a lot of hard work in the pool! The top swimmers are practising their sport for several hours each day, perfecting their techniques and keeping themselves in top physical condition.

This results in the clearly defined muscles we all associate with a classic swimmers physique.

If you want to put the hours in, it helps if you have a pool in your backyard. This means you can swim in the privacy and comfort of your own property whenever you want, instead of having to wait to go to a public pool. If you’re serious about swimming, a lap pool would be the best choice for you.

It offers a long, unimpeded corridor of water specifically designed for swimming laps. There is nothing in the design that can get in the way of your swimming, and it’s relatively easy to find a size of lap pool that can fit into the dimensions of your backyard.

This makes it ideal for improving your technique and lap times, as well as developing that all-important swimmer body! Last but not least, what can be better than staycationing by your new Compas lap pool?

2. Do the right exercises

Champion swimmers’ entire lives are dedicated to becoming the best they can possibly be at their sport. But this doesn’t mean they spend all day, every day, swimming. They also hit the gym, usually every day, to improve their body strength and overall levels of fitness.

Most swimmers do regular weightlifting, as well as a combination of other exercises. These include:

• Warmups. Nobody should ever get into a swimming pool without warming up their muscles. A good warmup routine should include stretches, push-ups and sit-ups to improve strength and flexibility, as well as to help prevent you from getting cramps once you get into the pool.
• Planks. Planks are great for strengthening your shoulders, arms and upper body, as well as developing your core strength. When you regularly do planks alongside your swimming routine, you will start to see those highly defined abs that the swimmer physique is famous for!
• Core exercises. A strong core is essential for swimming as it gives you strength and stability in the water. Exercises such as leg lifts and V-sits are ideal for strengthening your core muscles and helping you to achieve a swimmers body.

These are all exercises requiring no equipment – you can easily do them at home or at the poolside before you swim. However, gym equipment can also play an important part in achieving the perfect swimmer body. Exercises you can do at the gym include:

• Rowing. Using a rowing machine is a great way to develop a swimmer physique. It exercises all the muscles you rely on for swimming – the arms, abs, back and legs, resulting in more tone and definition, and giving the appearance of an authentic swimmer body!
• Crunch presses. Combining crunches with dumbbell presses is an ideal exercise for the shoulders, resulting in that broad swimmer look.
• Pulldowns. Pulldowns to the neck and chest exercise the lats, giving strength to your swimming performance and helping you to look more like a swimmer with that V-shaped upper body.

Combine all of these exercises with regular swimming, and you’re well on your way to a swimmer’s body!

3. Eat properly

Swimming is an exercise that burns a lot of calories. If you want to look like a pro swimmer, you have to give your body enough fuel to sustain your training regime. But it isn’t enough simply to eat to transform your body to swimmer’s body – you have to consume a nutritious, balanced diet that gives your body exactly the right types of sustenance.

This means balancing your diet into three core groups:

• Carbohydrates. These are the main sources of energy that the body gets from food, and they tend to make up around 50 per cent of a top swimmer’s diet. Carbohydrates are sugars, starches and fibres that the body breaks down into energy. It is important to eat good carbohydrates, which can be found in whole grains, fruit, vegetables, beans and pulses.
• Proteins. Proteins improve the functions of the body’s organs and tissues. They are also essential for building muscle mass, which you need if you are sticking to an intensive training regime and trying to achieve a swimmers body. Top swimmers get around 25 per cent of their nutrition from protein, which can be found in eggs, milk, fish, nuts and seeds.
• Fats. Healthy fats are good for heart health and help to lower your cholesterol. The healthy fats you should be looking for are monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. Avocado, olives, peanut butter, tofu and sunflower seeds are all excellent sources of healthy fats.

With so much healthy food to choose from, it isn’t hard to create a balanced eating plan that’s delicious at the same time. As such, you can look forward to mealtimes knowing that you are helping to give yourself a swimmer body!

Find out more about how to get a swimmer’s body

If you’re feeling inspired by this article and can’t wait to get started on your new eating and exercise plan, that’s great! Here at Compass Pools, we’re passionate about promoting the many benefits of swimming for your health and wellbeing. This includes achieving the perfect physique you have always dreamed of!

For more tips, advice and news, keep checking out our blog. Or, if you are trying to find the perfect pool for your backyard, please contact us. With dealers located all over Australia, our team are always happy to help you find the right pool for you.

The post 3 Effective Steps to a Swimmer’s Body: Exercises for Swimmers and Beyond appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Swimming is one of the best all-round forms of exercise you can do, and it’s hugely popular all over Australia. But many swimmers, while enjoying the water, aren’t particularly confident or secure in their swimming technique. This insecurity can dissuade them from getting in the pool often enough to improve their swimming, and it can sometimes take the enjoyment out of the experience altogether.

If this applies to you, don’t worry! We have put together this article to help you learn how to swim better and feel more confident in the pool.

Reasons to practise swimming

There are loads of good reasons to improve your swimming and do more swimming practice. Swimming has a huge range of benefits for your physical and mental health. People who swim regularly notice a huge boost to their energy levels, a better quality of sleep and an improved level of overall fitness. They also feel healthier, more positive and less stressed, demonstrating what an important activity swimming can be for increasing your sense of wellbeing.

Some of the specific health benefits of swimming include:

• Exercise: Swimming is one of the best all-round forms of exercise you can take as it uses almost every muscle in the body. It’s a great way to get a swimmer´s body. Good for increasing strength, toning up and maintaining a healthy weight. It’s also extremely beneficial for your cardiovascular health, protecting you against problems such as heart attacks, strokes and diabetes.
• Relaxation: Swimming is highly beneficial for improving both mental and physical wellbeing as it promotes relaxation and reduces stress. This helps to reduce your blood pressure and alleviates the symptoms of anxiety and depression, enabling you to manage the stresses of everyday life more effectively.
• Recovery from injuries: Swimming is good for muscular injuries as it is a low-impact sport that you can enjoy at your own pace. You don’t have to put too much strain on yourself while strengthening your muscles and increasing your flexibility.

However, if you want to get maximum benefits and enjoyment from swimming, it is important to get your technique right. Here are our top tips for how to swim better. Improve your swimming with these six simple tips!

How to improve your swimming

Always warm-up

Getting in the pool with cold muscles is a recipe for disaster. You will not have the flexibility you need, and there is a risk of you getting cramps. A correct warmup involves a number of simple exercises that you can easily do at the poolside. Stretches, push-ups and sit-ups are ideal for warming up your muscles and increasing your overall strength and flexibility.

To give yourself an extra advantage, you might also want to do some planks and core exercises, just to keep all the muscles you need for swimming in great condition.

Structure your swimming practice sessions

Jumping into the water and splashing about can be loads of fun! But if you’re serious about improving your swimming technique, you need to structure your swimming practice sessions so you can get some real meaning out of them.

Start off by swimming 200 metres freestyle at a constant pace and pressure. Then help yourself to focus by concentrating on just your arms or legs. This helps you to understand your swimming technique better and create a strong rhythm.

The main part of your session should be dedicated to swimming laps. If you have a lap pool or other rectangular pool in your backyard, this is the ideal environment for learning how to swim better. You can concentrate on improving your lap times and strengthening your technique without any of the distractions and obstacles that you always find at a public pool. And, as you’re in the privacy of your own backyard, you won’t need to feel self-conscious or embarrassed about it!

While you’re swimming laps, try to use as few strokes per lap as possible. Remember, a champion swimmer can do an entire lap in around seven strokes! Nobody expects you to be that good, but aim for less than 20, only starting the next stroke when you start to slow down from the previous one. It’s all about using your body in the most efficient way and creating more length in the water – you might have noticed that the top swimmers all tend to be tall! Creating a longer shape will help you to push the water out of the way more efficiently so you can use less energy and swim for longer.

Finally, make sure you remember to warm down with some gentle swimming before getting out of the pool.

3. Work on your breathing to improve your swimming

Good breathing is key to improving your swimming. A lot of swimmers tend to waste breath by gasping for air every time their face reaches the surface between every stroke. Part of becoming a better swimmer is learning to breathe more efficiently, using the air properly and reducing your breaths to one every three strokes instead of every stroke. This will help to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders as it means you are breathing on alternate sides rather than relying too heavily on one side or the other side of your body.

Learning to breathe more efficiently will also help you to keep your head in the right position when swimming freestyle. Many swimmers tilt their heads too far upwards or hold them too high, causing the rest of their bodies to drop too low in the water. This throws your technique off-course and slows you down. When you’re not breathing, your head shouldn’t move at all – you only need to tilt it slightly to the side to breathe.

4. Get your whole body working together

If you watch a top swimmer, their arms, legs and torsos seem to work together in synchronicity, propelling them forward through the water with what looks like very little effort. This is because they are using their bodies in the most efficient way possible. As you practise swimming, this will become natural to you if you get used to using the right techniques.

Your body position should be as straight as possible from your head to your hips so it can turn into each stroke to add more power. Keep your head low as this will keep your torso in a more streamlined position and reduce strain on your neck and shoulders. Doing this reduces drag and makes swimming easier. You should only tilt your head when you need to breathe.

Use your arms and hands like oars to pull your body through the water. If you hold your hands in a broad, flat position, this will help you to use your entire forearm to dig into the water, keeping your forearm at a right angle to your upper arm. At the same time, your abs and your lower back muscles should be taut as this will help you to propel yourself through the water using your arms and legs.

When it comes to your legs, it’s all down to the way you kick. Keep your leg muscles taut and your feet flexible so they can act like fins. If your feet aren’t particularly flexible, investing in a pair of swimming fins can really help your swimming performance. Small, fast kicks tend to work best as this technique gives your body stability in the water and prevents your legs from causing drag.

5. Work on your different strokes

Most swimmers tend to swim freestyle, so the majority of swimming practice advice is based around this stroke. But there are plenty of other swimming styles to choose from. It is important to be aware of all of them and work on your technique if you really want to be a better swimmer.

Here are some simple tips to consider when swimming in different styles:

Breaststroke

Your arms and legs have to work together here, but it is important to work on them separately if you really want to get your technique right. This is a stroke that requires a lot of coordination, so make sure you have the correct technique for your arms and legs so they can work in synchronicity.

One common mistake that swimmers make when swimming breaststroke is that they pull their arms back too far on each stroke, sometimes reaching almost to the hips. You will be more successful swimming in this style if you use shorter, more powerful arm movements that don’t even reach as far as your torso.

Backstroke

Many people think of backstroke as quite relaxing as it allows you to watch the world go by as you swim. But if you’re serious about becoming a better swimmer, you need to think about the different elements of the stroke so you can achieve more power. Backstroke can actually be one of the hardest strokes to get right.

The arm movement is particularly important here as it needs to come from your shoulders in a fluid, rolling movement. When your hand comes out of the water, your thumb should emerge first. Your arm then needs to twist mid-stroke so your pinky finger goes back into the water first.

Another helpful hint when swimming backstroke is to keep your head low and in a relaxed position. Many swimmers hold their heads too high when swimming this stroke, causing the body to be in an uncomfortable position – the upper body will be too high and the lower body too low. This creates a lot of drag, so it is important to keep your head low, making yourself more streamlined and also more comfortable.

Butterfly

The butterfly is all about the arms pulling you through the water. You should pull with your arms once for every two kicks. This synchronisation can be difficult to get right. It can be a good idea to practise with one arm at a time – do one lap just using your left arm and your legs, then another lap with just your right arm and your legs, before putting the whole thing together.

Doing one-arm drills will help you to keep your body in a more stable position and ensure that your arms are pulling with equal strength. This will result in a more balanced stroke, which is easier for you and looks better, too!

Flip turns

One simple way to improve your swimming is to master the flip turn. This is the way of turning in the water that top swimmers use at the end of each lap so they don’t have to stop swimming between laps. Mastering this technique will vastly improve your swimming and quicken your lap times as there is no pause between laps.

If you can do a somersault in the water, you can do a flip turn. It is important not to look at the wall as you approach it. If you look at the wall, you will slow yourself down by keeping your head up and also worry yourself about making the turn in time. Instead, look down at the bottom of the pool. Start to turn a half somersault when you see the “T” shape on the floor of the pool that marks the end of the lane.

Tuck your chin in, kick hard once and pull your arms down until they are at your sides. Then tuck your knees up to your chest and push with your arms to roll you over onto your back. At this point, when your half somersault is complete, stretch your arms over your head with your hands together pointing into the pool, away from the wall. Uncurl your upper body so it is in a streamlined “torpedo” shape. Extend your legs so your feet are planted on the wall, with your knees and hips at 90-degree angles.

Push off from the wall using your legs and feet so your whole body is now in a straight streamlined shape. You should still be on your back at this point. Use dolphin kicks or flutter kicks to propel you, and twist your whole body to one side so you roll over onto your front. Keep your body in a straight line the whole time to maintain as much momentum as possible.

6. Improve your swimming practice with the right pool

If you really want to improve your swimming and you don’t currently have your own pool, having your own pool can be a great investment. It is so much easier to practise swimming when you have a pool in your backyard – you can just step out of the door and into the water, any time you choose. There’s no more need to wait for public pool opening times; you can get some practice in before work or enjoy a dip to relax you at the end of a busy day. Or spend the holidays at home and swim as much as you like!

With so many pool shapes and sizes to choose from, it is easy to find a pool that can fit into your backyard and fit in with your lifestyle. The expert team here at Compass Pools Australia are always happy to help you find the perfect pool for you. Please contact your nearest dealership, and our friendly team will be glad to discuss your requirements.

For more swimming news and tips, check out our blog, which is regularly updated with articles about swimming and pools. We want to help you become the best swimmer you can be, and encourage a lifelong love of swimming for all!

The post 6 Top Tips for Getting Better at Swimming appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Just like any kind of sport, you need to warm up your body and always make sure it’s ready for any tedious activity. For golf, you would need to perform golf exercises, for basketball, you need to exert effort in circuit training, but since swimming is a watersport, exercises tend to be more difficult, but we’ll help you through it in this article.

There are several exercises to improve swimming available, and we’ll outline how you can use them to get better at swimming. Also, the type of pool you use can impact whether or not you swim better – we’ll go over several that are excellent choices below. Read on to get to our tips for getting better at swimming now!

Three Easy Exercises to Improve Swimming

You can focus on one area at a time to help you learn how to swim better. Dedicate time to each area of your body, and go as quickly or as slowly as you like.

1 – Planks

You don’t have to do all of your exercises in the pool to strengthen your body. One effective way to strengthen your glutes, arms, shoulders, upper and lower body is with planks. Position yourself like you’re going to attempt a pushup with your arms grounded slightly wider than your shoulders. Squeeze your glutes to stabilise yourself and use your toes to hold your feet. Your head should be in line with your back, and you hold this position for 20 seconds. Your legs shouldn’t hold any of the pressure. Planks, loved and recommended by (almost) all PTs, can significantly help you with getting better at swimming.

2 – Warmups

Before you get into the pool, you should be performing warmups to loosen your muscles up. This session should stay under 30 minutes. Do prone holds, stretch your hamstrings, do push-ups, burpees, and sit-ups. You can do this right alongside the pool, or you can do it in your home before getting into your pool. This reduces the risk of developing cramps.

3 – Core Exercises

Your core is the one place that will go through the biggest workout when you swim, so it makes sense to strengthen it any way you can. Start with the bird dog position. Get on your hands and knees and make your spine flat. Extend your right leg and left arm out, keeping them below your spine. Hold this position for five seconds before switching limbs. For V-sits, start in a seated position before raising your legs to a 45° angle. Extend your arms out to your knees and hold for 30 seconds. Strengthening can contribute to you getting better at swimming.

Six Big Benefits of Exercising in the Pool

There are several benefits that come with exercising in the pool or any body of water. These benefits are why many forms of therapy take place in the water, especially if people have injuries and they need to restrengthen their muscles. We’ve picked out the biggest ones and outlined them below.

• Low Impact – Unlike traditional exercise that can put more stress on your joints, swimming is very low impact. Water gives you buoyancy. This means you float once you enter the water. When you do your exercises, the water will save your joints from excess stress and reduce your risk of injury.
• Built-In Resistance – When you push against the water, you meet resistance. This resistance makes your body work harder to complete whatever exercise routine you have set up. You can adjust your resistance level depending on what you’re doing and the water depth. Deeper water has more resistance than more shallow water.
• Slowly Increase the Intensity – Water exercising is beginner-friendly. It allows you to start out slow and gradually work your way up to more complicated routines. To do this, you increase your time in the pool and take shorter rest breaks between exercise sets. You can also go to a greater resistance level.
• Tones Muscles – Working out in the water allows you to tone a huge range of muscles that you may not work out if you exercise on land. You can focus on more than one muscle group at once as well, and it helps keep your joints nimble because it’s so low-impact.
• Whole Body Support – No one wants to hurt their back because this can set you up for a lifetime of problems. Water exercises help to protect your body, particularly your back and spine. The water will support your weight and keep it off of your spine.
• Heart Healthy – Swimming laps, water jogging, or other water exercises are all aerobic. They get your heart pumping faster and encourage your vascular system to work. In turn, this can improve your heart health. Water also has a naturally cooling effect that lets you exercise for longer periods without feeling uncomfortably hot or sweaty.

Consider Investing in a Lap Pool

Lap pools are designed for swimming and swimming laps in your own lap pool can become an excellent way of getting better at swimming. We have several great lap pool models available at Compass Pools. They feature a narrow design that fits into more versatile areas, and they’re big enough to help you practice your swimming strokes. You can have this pool right outside your door, and this gives you the freedom to practice your swimming in the comfort of your own home. Spend the holidays at home and swim every day!

First up is the Fastlane lap pool design. This pool is excellent for serious swimmers because it offers lengths up to 30m. There are also two standard lengths coming in at 12 and 10m. This is more than enough space to help you clean up your strokes and improve your swimming speed. The flat bottom allows you to swim unhindered, and you can add optional external steps in several places along the pool wall.

Locate Your Nearest Compass Pools Dealer to Design Your Lap Pool

If you’re ready to try getting better at swimming in your own home, locate a Compass Pools dealer near you. They’ll be happy to answer all of your questions and help you decide which lap pool would work best for your needs. With dozens of colours and sizes available, you’ll get a pool you can’t wait to use for years to come!

The post 3 Exercises for Getting Better at Swimming appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Why Pool Water Circulation is Important

What happens when water stands still? It becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and algae, and it can look cloudy, muddy or dirty. Debris gathers in these stagnant areas, and it creates an environment that isn’t healthy for anyone to swim in.

The water also won’t be evenly distributed throughout the pool. This can cause chemical imbalances, leading to dirty or cloudy water. Also, you’ll spend more money trying to balance out the chemicals in your water, not to mention the waste.

Proper pool circulation takes care of all of these issues. It pushes the water through your filter system to catch and screen out dirt, bugs, grass and any other particles in the water. It can even get rid of the oils left by your skin or cosmetics. As long as your swimming pool circulation system is in good shape, it’ll help your water stay clear throughout the season.

How Pool Water Circulation Works

Pool circulation starts in your pump. You need to select the correct pump for your pool size and water volume, to ensure that it can cycle the water through several times a day. The pump connects to a horizontal hose that runs to your pool’s skimmer. Once you switch the pump on, it’ll create suction that starts to pull the water through the skimmer.

There is a vertical hose on top of your pump that will connect to your filter system. The water will travel through the skimmer and pump before entering the filtering area. The filter is the component that will screen out the debris and microscopic particles that could turn your water cloudy. A second hose connects to the pump’s exit and pulls the clean water back into the swimming pool.

When the water travels back into the swimming pool, it’ll circulate throughout it and mix with any chemicals you add into the water. It’ll spread the chemicals out in the pool and evenly distribute them. If you don’t have a pool circulation system, you have to drain and refill it on a weekly basis.

Pool Circulation Technology: Old Versus New

An old-fashioned eyeball and skimmer system works to clean the surface of the pool. This traditional water circulation system uses a pool skimmer box and a pump. The pump draws the water through the pool filter box before it returns it to the pool jets (eyeballs). These eyeballs are only 30 to 60cm below the water’s surface, and so only clean the shallower section of the water, leaving other areas untouched.

But new technology goes further than this. This technology allows for you to circulate and clean all of the water in your pool, and not just the surface.

At Compass Pools, we offer the Vantage cleaning system. This is an in-floor cleaning system that uses a series of nozzles embedded in the pool’s floor. They lay flat when you don’t use them, so they are out of the way. When you switch them on, the nozzles move to point upward and shoot the clean water towards the surface of the pool. This moves the water in a circular motion that drives it through the cleaning system.

Another option you have available to you is the Logic water circulation system. This system incorporates a skimmer and two wall drains. Once the water passes through the skimmer, the clean water is returned through the swing jets and is evenly distributed to every area of your pool.

How to Avoid Pool Circulation Problems

There are several things you can do to avoid pool circulation problems. First, you want to ensure you set up a proper cleaning routine for your pump and filter system. Even newer technology requires routine cleaning to keep it working in top shape.

To start, make a point to clean your pool pump filter at least once a week. If you notice that your water pressure has dropped, you may have to clean them sooner because there is a clog somewhere that stops the water from flowing through.

If your swimming pool has a cartridge filter, you’ll have to routinely spray it out. This will get rid of a lot of the trapped debris or particles and make it easier for the water to flow through. You should replace your filters every two to four weeks, based on your manufacturer’s instructions.

You may also want to backwash your filter system. When you backwash it, you make the water go through the system in the opposite direction than it would during normal operation. This can help dislodge any stuck-in debris or clogs, and the backwashed water is directed to the drainage port.

Maintain your pool’s recommended water levels. Ideally, the water levels will reach halfway up the skimmers. If they don’t, it can decrease the amount of water your system can screen. If there is too much water, you can overwhelm your system and harm circulation. This can also make it difficult to balance the chemicals in the pool water.

Locate Your Local Compass Pools Dealer Today!

Would you like to know more about the Vantage or Logic pool circulation system? Come and visit your nearest Compass Pools dealer. We are looking forward to helping you select the best pool water circulation system for your new Compass fibreglass pool!

The post Easy Ways to Improve Your Swimming Pool Circulation appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Compass Customers Love Their Self-Cleaning Pools

Learn why it’s so much easier to maintain your pool if you opt in for the Vantage self-cleaning pool system, unique to Compass Pools!

More about the Compass self-cleaning pool

The post Swimming Pool Maintenance for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Compass Customers Love Their Self-Cleaning Pools

Learn why it’s so much easier to keep your pool clean if you opt in for the Vantage self-cleaning pool system, unique to Compass Pools!

More about the Compass self-cleaning pool

Compass Customers Love Their Self-Cleaning Pools

Learn why it’s so much easier to keep your pool clean if you opt in for the Vantage self-cleaning pool system, unique to Compass Pools!

More about the Compass self-cleaning pool

The post 6 Useful Tips for a Clean Pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Sometimes it simply isn’t practical to install a pool completely in the ground. For example:

• Your site is sloping and some or all of your pool will need to be out of the ground
• You would like your pool to be level with an existing deck or other outdoor living area
• Your pool needs to be partially raised out of the ground to avoid engineering difficulties
• It isn’t practical to excavate and remove soil from your backyard (usually access issues for machinery).
• You would like your pool somewhere unusual (like an apartment rooftop!)

There are several choices when it comes to above-ground swimming pools. In this article we explore the pros and cons of some of the more permanent options available to you when planning your new pool. Like most construction projects there are options for different budgets so to help keep things simple we’ll start at the lowest price point.

Vinyl liner pools

Vinyl liner pools are a great starting point if you want a family pool but have a limited budget. These pools are typically constructed using kitset steel frames and walls which are then fitted with a made-to-size vinyl liner.

Pros of vinyl liner pools

• Budget friendly (you can DIY install for less than $10,000)
• Fast to install

Cons of vinyl liner pools

• They don’t look as good (may not be suitable for some houses)
• They can be easy to damage with sharp objects
• They fade easily if chemicals are not well managed
• The liner will require regular upkeep and replacement

Pre-made portable pools (shipping container pools, plunge pools, and The Little Pool Co for example)

In more recent years the demand for better looking, yet budget-friendly, swimming pools has certainly ramped up, and with that demand has come the rise of a new generation of portable pre-made pools. Some great examples that are currently available in Australia include shipping container pools, concrete plunge pools and freestanding fibreglass pools like the Little Pool Co.

Although a larger investment than a vinyl liner, these options are far more aesthetically pleasing and tend to be more permanent in terms of their expected lifespan.

Take The Little Pool Co Pools for example: these are freestanding fibreglass pools which can simply be placed onto a concrete base, filled with water and connected to power. You can literally be swimming the day your pool arrives on site. The nude (no exterior cladding) pool packages start from less than $17,000– perfect if you are planning on building a deck around your pool.

Pros of pre-made portable pool options

• Great for sites where access is limited, or it is hard to do earthworks
• They look like permanent pools (more upmarket)
• They can be installed very quickly
• There are plenty of budget friendly options (starting from around $17,000)
• They usually include everything you need (pumps, filters and lights)

Cons of pre-made portable pool options

• They are limited to smaller sizes
• There are currently no self-cleaning pool options

Swim Spas

Similar to premade portable pool options, swim spas have risen in popularity over the last decade. Swim spas are best described as a hybrid between a spa pool and a swimming pool. In many cases modern swim-spa designs include both spa and swimming zones.

Like shipping container pools or portable above-ground fibreglass pools, swim spas can be a good option if you are restricted to a small space, or if you are hoping to avoid a major excavation.

Swim spas can range in price from around $22,000 up to $45,000 depending on your preferences, which often means they are similarly priced to a permanent pool of the same size.

Pros of swim spas

• There are plenty of choices on the market
• They are quick to install
• Some have built in swim jets for exercise

Cons of swim spas

• They often run at higher temperatures than swimming pools (higher running costs)
• They don’t offer the same aesthetic WOW factor as a traditional pool
• They are limited in size

Partially in-ground fibreglass pools

If you are looking for a larger, more permanent pool, you might consider opting for a traditional fibreglass solution with a specially designed structural support beam (known as a drop-edge beam). This means you can install your pool up to one metre out of the ground. Drop-edge beams are often a cost effective way to raise the height of your pool to match existing decks, retaining walls or other raised areas in your backyard.

Pros of using a drop-edge beam

• You get to have a full-sized pool of your choosing
• Usually a cost-effective way to raise your pool out of the ground
• Often adds aesthetically to the pool area (as shown in photo)

Cons of using a drop-edge beam

• Not always suitable for every backyard
• Can take up too much space
• Not always the most cost-effective solution

Above-ground, free standing fibreglass pools (Compass Maxi Rib pools)

Compass Pools have been pioneering above-ground pool installations for over 20 years. In fact, our Maxi Rib system was the first of its kind and won an Australian design award for innovation! The Maxi Rib System allows you to have a full-sized Compass Pool almost anywhere you want it: from hillsides to rooftops. Maxi Ribs open up a world of design possibilities including vanishing edges (infinity pools), acrylic windows, waterfalls and much more.

Pros of Compass Maxi Rib above-ground pools

• You can get a full-sized above-ground swimming pool
• Customisable with the Compass range of add-ons
• Can come equipped with the Vantage self-cleaning and circulation system
• Often more cost effective than extensive earthworks or highly engineered concrete alternatives

Cons of Compass Maxi Rib above-ground pools

• Costs more than a traditional inground pool

Specifically engineered concrete solutions

The final alternative is to opt for a specially designed concrete solution. Sometimes, if your site has multiple challenges then the best way to go is to opt for a specially designed concrete solution that matches your site perfectly.

Pros of Specifically engineered concrete solutions

• A design that matches your site perfectly
• A good way to overcome challenging site limitations
• Create the WOW factor with a unique pool shape/design

Cons of Specifically engineered concrete solutions

• Concrete is harder to look after than fibreglass pools
• Often the most expensive option
• Much longer construction process than the above alternatives

Want help finding the best above-ground pool solution for your backyard?

If you’re not sure what solution is right for your backyard, the best thing we can recommend is to get your local Compass Pools dealer to call out for a full site inspection. This service is FREE and comes with no expectation to buy. They’ll be able to help you find the best option for you, your family and your budget!

Click here to locate your nearest Compass Pools Dealer and request a site visit.

The post Above-ground pool options appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

What is a Kids Pool?

A family or kids pool is a pool that typically features a shallow area where your kids can freely play without worrying about straying into water that is too deep for them. The beach entrance is a design where the pool starts shallow and gradually gets deeper the further you walk in. Another option is to add a shallow area like a sun pod that directly connects to the deeper pool. Your kids can play in this shallow area while adults and older kids enjoy the other parts of the pool.

Benefits of Installing Pools for Kids

The right kids’ pool comes with a host of benefits for everyone in the family. During the hot Australian summer months, your entire family can enjoy your pool every day. They’ll have fun and enjoy the various benefits, including:

• Stay Cool – One of the most obvious perks of having a kids pool is that the kids can jump in and beat the heat. Having a pool in your backyard lets your kids take a quick dip any time of day they want, and they get the privacy they won’t get in public pools.
• Gathering Place – Pools create a natural gathering place for all of your kids, friends and family. Your kids can host pool parties and invite all of their friends over for a day in the water. Adults can sit in the shade and talk while the kids play safely in the water. Pools are a great way to have several kids over at the same time while keeping them entertained.
• Fun Way to Exercise – Water provides a place for low-impact exercise. Your kids feel almost weightless in the water, and they can easily play for hours at a time without getting tired. Even better, they can exercise without even realising they’re doing it!
• Lends Tranquility – The kid’s pool adds a little tranquillity to your home or backyard. You’ll be able to sit out and enjoy the sun sparkling on the water and the soft hum of the pool pump. Additionally, a pool can soften the edges of your yard and help pull all of your design elements together to create a cohesive space.
• Saves Money – While it can be more expensive upfront to install and maintain kids pools in Australia, it’ll save money in the long run. Instead of packing your entire family up and going to the beach for a day out, you can head to the backyard. You could even have a staycation and plan fun pool-related activities over those long school breaks.
• Adds Home Value – Any pool will give your home curb appeal. It’ll also cause your home’s value to go up when you install it. If you plan to sell your home at one point, a pool can be a massive bonus for the potential buyer, especially if they have kids or plan to start a family.
• Family Investment – The correct kids’ pool can be an excellent investment for your family. When your kids grow up, leave and start their own families, they can come back to your house with their kids. Your grandkids will love to go to grandma and grandpa’s house to splash around in the pool on those warm afternoons.
• Encourages Social Interaction – Your kids must learn social skills when they’re little, and a pool is a great gathering place. Your kids can hang out, interact and play games with their friends and family. Plus, having a kids pool makes your home the destination gathering place for all of your kid’s friends. It’s like having a playground at home.

Fun Features to Add to Your Kid’s Pool in Australia

You don’t want to have a pool with a single depth for your kids like you would with adults. Additionally, the more fun features you add, the more your kid’s imaginations will run. For example, a sun pod gives them an excellent place to sit down and play with the jets, and they cause spouts of water to shoot up into the sky. These water spouts are particularly fun for smaller kids who will have fun trying to stop the spouts.

A water wall is another popular idea. Your kids can pretend they’re mermaids playing under the waterfall. Since it runs at a slower pace, it’s safe for your kids to play around without fear of the water pushing them under or splashing them. A spa gives your older kids an area to relax with their friends, and your younger kids can use it to warm up between dips in the bigger pool.

Maybe you want warmer water because you plan to have smaller kids in the pool. If so, heating elements can help you get precision control over your pool’s temperature. Solar energy, gas and electric heating are all available, and the one you choose for your kid’s pool will depend on when you plan to use it, how often you plan to use your pool and more.

Benches are entertaining areas you can add to the sides of your pool to give your kids a shallow place to hang out and play. You can choose from a few different depths and sizes. Maybe you want a bench that runs along the side of your pool, or you want a few smaller areas placed around your pool at intervals. These spaces are great alternatives that don’t take away from the pool’s swimming areas.

If you plan to teach your kids to swim in your pool, adding learn to swim steps is excellent. Broader and more shallow steps are better for kids pools than short and deep. You want your kid to gradually walk into the water and feel comfortable rather than step off into a surprising depth that could scare them.

Maybe you want to create an area where both your bigger and smaller kids can play comfortably. If so, you can install a larger pool and add a wader or pond. These areas are very shallow spaces attached to the deeper pool. Adults can sunbathe, smaller kids can play comfortably and safely, and older kids can have a blast playing in the deeper water.

LED lights can add a whimsical touch to your kid’s pool that can make it fun for your kids to swim after dusk. You can even combine these in-pool lights with a string or two of fairy lights around the edge of the pool to create a fantasy land for your kids to play in.

Jets are fun for your kid pool. They’ll spurt water out into the pool and give your kids a fun element to play around. They can even practice their swimming and see how well they do when the jets switch on. For adults, these areas can provide short bursts of hydrotherapy that help relax their muscles while they watch their kids play.

Finally, you want to think of the colour scheme in your kid’s pool. The pool should look inviting and safe, and colour plays a significant role. For example, bright and vivid colours may be a better choice instead of darker colours. Your kid should be able to easily see the bottom and every corner of the pool before they go in. Being able to see everything gives both you and your children peace of mind.

Should You Pick an In-Ground or Above-Ground Kids Pool?

Before you decide on an in-ground or above-ground setup, consider a few things. The cost, size and longevity are three significant points you have to keep in mind when you shop. They include:

• Average Cost – In-ground fibreglass pools can cost between $30,000 and $70,000 to buy and install while cheaper above-ground pools typically cost between $4,000 to $12,000. For the above-ground pools, this estimate doesn’t include a deck, landscaping around it, or plumbing and electrical work. However, there are also high-quality and great-looking alternatives available. For example, Little Pools are ready-to-use fibreglass pools that look great and are perfect for families with kids.
• Size – Both above- and in-ground fibreglass pools can be large or small. However, the above-ground pool usually comes with a single depth while you can have sloping depths with in-ground pools.
• Longevity – If you choose a fibreglass pool that is above-ground, in-ground or partially in-ground, you’ll get the same lifespan. Most fibreglass pools can last well over 20 years as long as you maintain them as the pool manufacturer recommends. Vinyl kids pools are cheaper, but they only last between five and nine years, even with proper maintenance.

Design Ideas for Kid Pools

Compass Pools has family pool designs available that give you a classic look while meeting all of your needs. The Contemporary pool line is excellent for kids pools because it has very shallow ends for smaller kids with deeper centres for bigger kids. Both ends have benches, and there are larger and broader steps that allow your kids to ease into the water and sit down.

Another option is the Vogue pool, and you can choose several different sizes to fit your space requirements. This pool has a ledge around the edges where your kids can sit and ease their way into the water. An anti-slip coating on the steps makes this pool safer for the entire family to enjoy without fear of slipping or falling.

If you plan to use your backyard for a lot of entertaining, you can add a shaded area or patio close to your pool. This way, you can entertain your guests while your kids play in the pool under your supervision. This setup also makes it easy to host pool parties or family gatherings because your kids don’t have to go far to eat or drink before heading back to the pool.

One thing your pool has to have, especially if it’s for kids, is fencing. You have to fence your pool off around all sides. This fence will keep everyone safe when they’re playing in the yard and not in the pool or if a neighboring child winds up in your yard when you’re not present. You have to be careful what objects you put by your fencing as well, your kids can’t use them to climb over the fence and play in the water when you’re not around to supervise them. Your gate should have a secure latch that your kids can’t reach.

Things to Consider When You Pick Out Your Kids Pool

If you’re seriously considering a kids pool, there are a few things you want to keep in mind when you shop. They include:

• Budget – Make a budget and stick to it. You want to get the best kid’s pool possible without breaking the bank.
• Maintenance – How much time do you have to dedicate to maintenance? Pools for kids need maintenance to keep the water clear and the pool swim-ready. As a general rule, fibreglass pools are more straightforward to take care of than other types. And if you select Compass Pools, you can get a self-cleaning pool that requires (almost) no maintenance.
• Space – How much space do you have in your backyard for your pool? Remember that you have to have space for the deck or surface at the edge. You also want to be able to move around your yard once we install the pool.
• Use – Since this will be a family or kids pool, they’re usually more extensive. You want enough room for all of your planned activities.

Visit Your Local Compass Pools Dealer Today!

We invite you to stop by our nearest showroom and discuss your options for your new kid’s pool in Australia. You can request your free quote by finding the closest dealer or calling us on 1300 667 445! We can’t wait to hear from you!

The post How to Pick the Perfect Pool That Will Grow With Your Kids appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Many people choose to search for ‘swimming pools near me’ or ‘local pool builder near me’ to find results. However, we want to tell you exactly how to find the best local pool company, and we’ll outline why it’s so critical that you take your time when you search.

Why Searching for ‘Swimming Pools Near Me’ is Only the Start of Your Search

Some people decide to perform one or two searches for ‘pools near me’ and pick the first company that pops up. However, this is only the beginning of your search. You must screen every company and do in-depth research before you settle on one.

This way, you can rest assured that the pool company can do everything you need them to do. Maybe you need special accommodations, or you have obstacles in the way that makes installation difficult. Some companies will be able to accommodate you while others will not.

Additionally, taking the time to perform these searches will allow you to price check different companies to get the best rate. If you don’t, and you pick one at random, you could end up paying much more for your new pool or spa than you need too. This money is something you could use to add accessories to your pool or use for additional upgrades like eco-friendly pumps or bright colours.

Criteria to Help You Find a Pool Company in Melbourne or the Surrounds

Fortunately, we have a guide that outlines everything you need to make a note of when you search for a ‘local pool builder near me.’ These first few essential details you want to apply to any local pool company you find.

Experience

How long has the pool company been in business? Ideally, you want to find a well-established company that has a portfolio of completed projects and satisfied clients. For example, Compass Pools has a Melbourne office and showroom where we’re more than happy to talk about past installs and their options. We have several fibreglass pools available, and we have decades of experience installing them for our customers.

References

Any pool builder you contact should be able to provide you with recommendations for past projects. These should be new and older customers. A company that does quality work will be more than happy to prove it by giving you at least one or two references.

Business or Trade Organisation

Having some degree of involvement with a local trade or business organisation shows that a business commits to the pool building industry. You’re more apt to get a professional company that invests time, money and effort into making their pools and accessories better.

Equipment

Be sure you ask about the local pool company’s heavy machinery and the quality grades and performance levels. The answers will give you a good idea on whether or not they have the equipment available to create, transport and install the pool successfully.

Payment Process

Ask to see a copy of a typical pool build and install contract. Ask about payment terms. Any contractor who asks you for more money than the contract specifies isn’t worth your time. The goal is to stay within the contract’s guidelines from start to finish.

Pool Types

What type of pool comes up when you search for a ‘pool company near me?’ Do the majority of people need in-ground or above-ground? If you have a little space available, can your pool company install a plunge pool? What about a spa or a pool and spa combination? A reputable pool company will be able to walk you through your various options and find the best pool type for your space and usage needs.

Cost

Your budget will also play a role in the company you choose and the pool you get. You have to consider the groundwork, trades, whether or not you want paving or decking, safety features, landscaping, accessories, heating, chemicals, filtration system and cleaning expenses. If you shop around, you can find the lowest prices for your new pool with sacrificing quality.

Will the Company Put the Details in Writing

Finally, make a point to ask the pool companies if they’ll put all of the little details in writing. Getting it in writing will help outline what the pool company and what you will have to cover. The things you want to see include:

• What excavation work does the company include in your quote? If the company runs into issues, how will the issues impact the cost?
• How will the company prepare your yard for the pool without damaging existing structures? If they have to move things, will they return them to their places?
• If you need a fence or deck around your pool, will they put it in or will that be your responsibility?
• What equipment will they use, and what happens if something happens to it that causes a delay?
• What landscaping and grading company do they use if they outsource?
• What will you have to pay with repair and maintenance costs?
• What is the warranty coverage?
• Is there an itemized list of the costs of the pool and any accessories like a spa, infinity edge, wading area or pool cover.

Six Steps to Follow to Find the Best Local Pool Builder

Now that you have a list of things to consider when you search for ‘swimming pools near me,’ you can use these steps to narrow down your search. Since any given area can have dozens of local pool companies, taking your time and comparing them is critical.

Step One – Determine the Pool Type

The first thing you want to do is decide on the type of pool you want. A quick search will give you a good indication of the go-to Australian pool types. Are they in-ground or above-ground? Concrete or fibreglass? Freshwater or saltwater? In Australia, fibreglass pools are one of the most popular options due to their durability and longevity. Decide which type of pool suits your area, budget and lifestyle.

Step Two – Pick Out the Pool Design

There are dozens of pool designs available. Maybe you want a pool to increase your swimming speed. If so, a lap pool would be the right choice. If you want something more elegant, an infinity pool could be the way to go. Consider how you want to use the pool and your yard space. You could always get a smaller pool and get a few water features added on to make it more functional.

Step Three – Learn About Pool Equipment

You don’t have to be a pool equipment expert, but having a rudimentary understanding of how pool equipment works and the basic pros and cons are helpful. For example, do you want a cartridge, natural or diatomaceous earth filter? Will you use a chlorine generator or a feeder to chlorinate your pool, or will you choose saltwater? Consider a self-cleaning pool system to cut down on the number of chemicals you need and the amount of maintenance you’ll have to do. The more you know, the more prepared you’ll be to ask questions and understand your options.

Step Four – Make a List of Potential Local Pool Companies

When you get a good understanding of what you want for your new pool, make a list of reputable local pool companies. Ask for references from co-workers, family and friends who have or had pools installed. Once you get a list, start comparing them to see which ones offer you more bang for your buck. Use the criteria list from earlier to help weed through your potential companies. The goal is to narrow your choices down to the top three to five.

Step Five – Schedule Appointments

Take your final list and start scheduling appointments. You should schedule them a day or two apart, so you don’t mix up their offerings, and it’ll also give you time to jot down a few comparison notes. Make a short pro and con list and pay attention to each company’s sales pitch. Also, make sure to get any promises, discounts or promotional offers in writing. Don’t sign any contracts until you visit your entire list of potential companies.

Step Six – Compare and Choose

Finally, you’ll want to take a day and compare all of your options. Were there a couple that stood out from the rest? Use the process of elimination to narrow your results down until you get one company. Call and schedule another consultation, or ask them what the next step is and what they need from you. You can now move forward with your build while staying confident that you chose the best option to give you the pool of your dreams.

Compass Pools Has Reputable Pool Dealers in Several Locations

Compass Pools has a reputation for installing high-quality fibreglass pools. We bring years of experience to each customer we take on, and we’ve honed our craft over the years. Additionally, we also have a host of offices and showrooms throughout Australia that makes it easy to come directly to our customers. There are no long wait times, and we’ll work with you to ensure you get an excellent finished product. We have authorised dealers in:

Melbourne

Compass Pools is the pool company Melbourne residents turn to when they need dependable and professional service. We bring over 30 years of experience selling and installing fibreglass pools throughout Melbourne and Victoria. Each member of our staff commits themselves to showcase the highest quality fibreglass swimming pools available. Additionally, each of our pools is low maintenance, but they all last for years.

We have a showroom where we can walk you through the various fibreglass pools, spas and accessories we have available. We’ll also show you the different colour ranges and finishes. We also encourage you to ask about our past installations! We’re happy to showcase our work and help you choose the best swimming pool for your lifestyle.

Sydney

The Compass Sales Centre is your point of contact for a quality pool company in Sydney North and Sydney South. We’ve showcased our pools and had a decade to build our portfolio of satisfied customers and completed projects here. We faithfully serve the Baulkham Hills, Blacktown, Castle Hill, Central Coast, Gosford, Hurtsville, Mosman, Northern Beaches and Northshore communities from this location.

When you drop by, our friendly and professional staff are on-hand and ready to walk you through your pool options. We can compare sizes, shapes, colours and exterior finishes to help you decide on the best choice for your needs.

Brisbane

If you’re looking for a reliable pool company in Brisbane, rely on our authorised Compass Pools dealer for this area.

You can drop by and view our exclusive range of fibreglass pools, spas and water features that help you customise your new pool. If you have questions, the friendly staff are ready to answer them, address your concerns and guide you through the process of picking out a new pool.

Newcastle

When you look for a pool company in Newcastle, look for Compass Pools. Newcastle is home to our display centre, and we have several high-quality fibreglass pools to show our customers. We specialise in complicated site installations, and we have hundreds of satisfied customers throughout the community.

This location is right next door to Compass Pools Australia – NSW Manufacturing Facility, and this means you get lightning-fast service with quick turnaround times when you order. If you’d like to know more, we offer no-obligation quotes on your new spa or pool project!

Stop by Your Local Compass Pools Showroom Today!

No matter where you are in Australia, you can find a local Compass Pools showroom or shop. We invite you to drop by and see what we have to offer, or you find your nearest authorised dealer to request a free, no-obligation quote right now!

The post How to Find a Reputable Pool Company Near You appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

What is the McGrath Foundation?

Jane McGrath co-founded the McGrath Foundation after battling breast cancer herself. She made her experience public, including how difficult it was to go through breast cancer the first time without the help of a breast cancer nurse. When her breast cancer came back, she found the services of a breast cancer nurse, and this nurse transformed the treatment process and helped Jane handle her diagnosis.

In turn, Jane wanted every Australian family and breast cancer patients to have access to a breast cancer nurse throughout their journey. The McGrath Foundation’s services are entirely free, and these nurses are here to hold your hand and answer any questions you may have. Every January, The McGrath Foundation and people whose lives have transformed due to the Foundation celebrate Jane McGrath Day at the Sydney Cricket Ground at the Pink Test.

The mission of this Foundation is to have nurses who provide emotional, physical and psychological support from the minute a patient has a breast cancer diagnosis throughout the treatment process. It doesn’t matter if you’re in public or private care, the nurses can come to you. Additionally, nurses from the McGrath Foundation provide support and care for early breast cancer to metastatic breast cancer.

The services are 100 percent free, and the McGrath Foundation can continue its work thanks to generous donations from responsible businesses, community members and private donations. There are currently 135 Breast Cancer Care Nurses in the McGrath Foundation, and the Foundation has reached over 75,000 families. They gave over 200,000 hours of care in the last year alone, and this can be invaluable for both the patients and their families.

How the McGrath Foundation Works

This foundation strives to make it as quick and easy as possible for people to gain access to qualified Breast Cancer Care Nurses, and this is why they don’t require referrals. Instead, all  you have to do is click on their interactive map. This map will allow you to find one of their nurses closest to you. When you click on one of the nurses; a small profile will pop up and tell you their name, where they are, the facility they work in, facility address, their email, phone number and the days they work.

If you can’t find a nurse near you, you can call the McGrath Foundation’s hotline. This hotline will connect you straight to a Breast Cancer Care Nurse, and they’ll help you find the nurse closest to you. These nurses can then come to you and offer their support or answer questions as they arise.

Ways to Give to the McGrath Foundation

There are numerous ways you can give to the McGrath Foundation, either on your own or as a responsible business to help raise awareness for breast cancer in Australia. It costs roughly $140,000 to support a single McGrath Breast Cancer Care Nurse for a year, so giving is always appreciated. Ways include:

• • Individual Donations – Every little bit helps, and each donation helps fund the commitment and initiative of the McGrath Foundation by providing resources for their nurses and the patients they assist.
  • Monthly Donations – Monthly donations help reassure patients with breast cancer that the Breast Cancer Care Nurses’ services will continue well into the future. You can set the donation amount, and they welcome every donation.
  • Will – You can write the McGrath Foundation in your will and leave a generous gift after you pass. This lasting gift will support more nurses.

• Celebration – Celebrating someone you know and their triumphant fight with breast cancer is an excellent way to show them you care while raising funds for the Foundation.
• In Memory – Leave a lasting legacy for someone lost to breast cancer by donating funding in their name and honour.
• Shop Pink – Shop pink with the Foundation’s Pink Partner Products any time of the year. Purchase proceeds go back into the program to support the nurses.
• Volunteer – You can join a host of community volunteers that work at the Pink Test event in January or other events the McGrath Foundation hosts throughout the year.

Why Breast Cancer Care Nurses Are so Important

A breast cancer diagnosis can be a terrifying and devastating time in anyone’s life, and no one should go it alone. Family and friends can provide support, but what happens if you have questions? Or, what if you need someone who understands and is ready to hold your hand?

These services are what the Breast Cancer Care Nurses do for both the patients and the family members. They can help guide everyone from the diagnosis point to picking a treatment and beyond. Sometimes, it’s easier to lean on someone not in your immediate family, and that is what the McGrath Foundation’s nurses do. They provide caring, attentive and empathetic support, so you never feel alone.

How Compass Pools Supports the McGrath Foundation

We are a responsible pool manufacturer that takes great pride in working side by side with the McGrath Foundation to fight breast cancer and raise breast cancer awareness across Australia. In 2017, we gladly became a corporate partner with the McGrath Foundation.

In just two short years, we’ve raised over $330,000 that we’ve given directly to the Foundation. Our goal over the next two years is to raise $150,000 per year. This amount is enough money to support one full-time Breast Cancer Care Nurse for a year, and this allows these nurses to continue helping families throughout Australia.

Every single pool we install helps us reach our pledge goal of $150,000 per year in donations. Every client that trusted us to install their pools also gave back to their community through Compass Pools. Additionally, we volunteer our time with various McGrath Foundation activities and events to ensure every penny raised goes directly to supporting the Foundation’s cause.

Throw a Pink Pool Party and Help Compass Pools Hit Our Donation Goal

We decided to challenge ourselves even more and raise our donation goal for the McGrath Foundation by pledging $1 million. The Pink Pool Party started with a dream by Compass Pools founder Ian Mewett. In 2016, he dreamed he was driving down the motorway and spotted a Compass swimming pool with a bright pink exterior. Ian took this as a sign that Compass Pools was meant to help the McGrath Foundation by donating and becoming a corporate partner.

Our new goal is to raise funds over the next few years to hit our target of $1 million for donations. The Pink Pool Party is a fun way for our customers to help raise additional funds while celebrating past, present and future breast cancer patient’s journeys.

You can register to host your own Pink Pool Party, and you can make it a small event for friends and family or a huge event! Once you register, you’ll gain access to pre-made invitations and social media content you can send out to your participants.

Buy Pink Party pool gear from our site, create a pink pool area and party on while raising donations. Once you finish with your party, you can deposit the funds into our collection account, and we’ll put the money toward our goal of $1 million. It’s that simple!

Additionally, Compass Pools hosts Pink Pool Parties throughout the year! Our next Pink Pool Party date is March 7, 2020! You can register your party for this date, and we’ll give out random prizes leading up to the event for party hosts. Join in the fun and help us celebrate the McGrath Foundation at the same time by becoming a Pink Pool Party host!

Visit Your Local Compass Pools to Find Out More About Hosting a Pink Pool Party

If you’d like more information on how Compass Pools supports the McGrath Foundation, you can stop by your local Compass Pools. We’re happy to answer your questions. You can also check out the Pink Pool Party site, the McGrath Foundation or find your nearest authorised dealer.

The post Presenting the McGrath Foundation: Advocates for Breast Cancer Care and Support appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Let’s Define a Swim Spa

A swim spa combines a spa and a swimming pool all in one setup. It’s bigger than your standard hot tub, but it’s not quite as large as a full-sized pool. You can install your swim spa anywhere you can install a traditional hot tub, and this is exciting news for people with limited space. The powerful pumps on the swim spa create a current that allows you to swim in place, the aquatic equivalent of running on a treadmill. You can switch on the jets and lets them massage your cares away as well.

Buy a Swim Spa in Sydney

Since Sydney is a more extensive metro, it makes sense that you can choose from several different swim spa manufacturers. Each one brings their unique spin to swim spas, but the result is the same. You’ll get a relaxing oasis that you can’t wait to visit. Some of the biggest names in Sydney include:

• Sapphire Spas – For the past 17 years, Sapphire Spas have dedicated themselves to providing Sydney residents with spas that change their lives. They combine potent aesthetics with functional design to bring a host of swim spas to their clients. This company is Australian-owned and made, and they have a life care commitment that guarantees service for as long as you own your swim spa.
• Splashes Spa World – Since 1993, Splashes Spa World have taken the initiative to provide Sydney residents with the perfect swim spa. They have nine different options available, ranging from three- to six-seaters, and customers get excellent service with cost-effective pricing. They have four showrooms and lifetime support for each person that purchases the spas.
• Vortex Spas – Vortex Spas create a line of luxurious swim spas that can withstand the extreme weather conditions Australia throws at them. They use cutting-edge technology to give you the cleanest water imaginable without having to pour tons of chemicals into the water. This technology also makes it easy to care for and maintain your swim spa.
• Endless Spas – As a family-owned and operated business, Endless Spas have two generations working here. They have a line of swim spas available that include freestanding and in-ground setups. This company routinely donates spas to families in need who use hydrotherapy with their ill or disabled children.
  

Get Your Swim Spa in Melbourne from Reputable Companies

Melbourne is a thriving city with a relaxed atmosphere, and it has people who love to spend quality time with family and friends. So, it makes sense that being around the water is second nature. Having your swim spa gives you a gathering place for your friends and family, and you get several reputable companies that can help.

• Swim Spas Plus – This company features 31 different swim spa designs, and they’re an industry-leading supplier of swim spas in Melbourne. They bring over 44 years of experience in designing and installing swim spas to the area, and their goal is to offer high-quality products at cost-effective pricing. They have multiple shows they exhibit at each year, and they have features in several magazines.
• Swim Spas Melbourne – Each swim spa from this company comes from local designers that understand Australia’s unique weather conditions. They have several lines available, and every swim spa seats up to 10 people. This space is more than enough room to host gatherings, and the powerful jets allow you to swim or relax and let your cares melt away.
• Just Spas and Outdoors – With over 14 swim spa models available ranging from 5 to 9 seats; you’ll get a sleek look that’s perfect for small spaces. They’re one of the largest swim spa manufacturers in the Southern Hemisphere, and they’ve been in business for over 25 years. You’ll get innovation, craftsmanship and quality each time you purchase swim spas from them.

Find a Swim Spa in Brisbane From a Quality Supplier

Brisbane has a charming and youthful feel with almost 300 days of sun each year. This playful atmosphere, combined with the gorgeous temperature makes it the perfect place for people to enjoy their swim spas. There are also several reputable swim spa manufacturers to choose from, including:

• Brisbane Spa Super Centre – This company offers some of the most cutting-edge swim spas in Brisbane. You’ll choose from five different lines of swim spas and dozens of different shapes, sizes and colours. They seat from a few people up to ten, and the staff offer expert advice to help you pick out the best option.
• Spa Choice – Specially designed to meet Australia’s rigorous standards, Spa Choice have five different swim spa lines available. No matter if you want hydrotherapy, family fun, French designs or something more straightforward, you’ll find it here. They also have all of the parts and accessories you need to keep your swim spa running at maximum efficiency.
• Spas Direct – You’ll get the choice of 11 different spas when you choose Spas Direct. They offer payment plans that make it easy to afford the swim spa of your dreams this summer. They come with sleek looks, bright interiors and eye-catching outer shells that are sure to match any design or theme you have.

Pick Your New Swim Spa in Newcastle

Newcastle features gorgeous beaches and a vibrant downtown area with sunny and warm weather. But the beaches can get crowded, and this may send a lot of people searching for a new swim spa in Newcastle. You can enjoy the water in the privacy of your backyard, and there are several reputable suppliers in the area. They include:

• Always Clear – With 16 spa pools and several swim spas available, Always Clear have something for everyone. You get a range of colours from deep blue to white, several depths and a few different sizes. They use Australian-made swim spas, and this ensures each customer gets quality products each time they shop.
• Bubbly Spas – Since 2008, Bubbly Spas have given Australians cost-effective swim spa choices. Their prices start at $1,500, and they stock brand-name spas with warranties. The Australian-made spas and accessories enable you to get everything you need all in one place. They have covers, pumps, stairs, steps, cover lifters and more they’ll deliver straight to your door.
• Blue Haven Spas – Blue Haven Spas have options that seat two, five, six and over six people comfortably at the same time. You get the choice of four different designs in white or black, and the jets give a relaxing hydrotherapy massage. The friendly staff will work with you to help you find the best swim spa for your situations.

Consider a Swim Spa Alternative

Maybe you want something a little different than a swim spa, but you’re not sure what alternatives are available. If so, Compass Pools has authorised dealers in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney North, Geelong, Sydney South and Newcastle. We’re happy to talk to you in person. If you’re in a different location and what to find our nearest authorised dealer, you can use our easy pool builder locator. As it stands, you get a few choices when it comes to shopping for something other than a swim spa, and your options are:

Spa and Pool Combination

Any of our pools at Compass Pools can have a spa added on that gives you the best of both worlds. We currently have several different pools available for every size yard. You can add your spa to almost any corner, and it uses the same water the pool does to reduce waste. Your kids can have the time of their lives playing in the pool while mum and dad relax a few feet away in the spa.

Plunge Pools

For small backyards, plunge pools are an ideal choice that gives you the joy of pool or spa ownership without taking up a lot of space. Plunge pools come in different sizes, and they feature a gently sloped bottom that allows you to choose how deep it goes. This option can be wholly or partially above ground, and you can add all of the amenities you’d get with a traditional pool.

Swim jets and spa jets are two of the most popular accessories our customers like to add to their plunge pools. You can get a relaxing hydrotherapy massage each time you turn them on. Other fun accessories for this setup include benches and steps. You’ll be able to sit and relax as the jets massage your cares away while beating the summer heat.

Little Pools

A third option we have at Compass Pools is our Little Pools. We specially design these pools to fit into small backyards while blending flawlessly with the landscape. The exoskeleton is a non-corrosive material that makes these pools durable and long-lasting. The installation process is another perk with Little Pools. You can install them fully above ground, partially in-ground or fully in-ground.

Pick Your Size

The first thing you want to do is pick out the appropriate size for your Little Pool. Compass Pools gives customers a few different choices, including:

• Relax Pool Range – You’ll get a 6.3m by 2.35m pool in this line that is great for allowing one or two people to unwind.
• Refresh Pool Range – This range is slightly smaller than the Relax range at 6.1m by 2.5m, but you’re able to go for a quick dip to refresh yourself when it gets hot and humid out.
• Plunge Pool Range – There are three plunge pools in the Little Pools line that range from 2.8m to 4.8m. These are deeper pools that give you the best of both worlds.

Pick Your Colour 

There are four exciting colours to choose from when you decide to install a Little Pool. Each one creates an eye-catching and elegant look when the sun hits the water. Royal and Marine are the two darker shades that create a classic look, or you can choose the lighter Ice and Marble tones.

Pick Your Exterior Finish 

You’ll pick from two different exterior finishes with the option to add a burst of colour with a UV-resistant Greenwall. The exterior finishes are:

• Mini Orb – The Mini Orb finish is our standard finish that comes in six shades ranging from cream to black. These are corrugated steel panels that withstand wear and tear, and they create a unique exterior finish. The matte colouring fits wonderfully with different design aesthetics.
• Aluminium Composite – You’ll get flat panels that consist of two thin aluminium sheets with a coal coating. The sheets bond to a non-aluminium core for added durability and resistance to fading, chipping or cracking.
• UV-Resistant Greenwall – The optional choice we give our customers is a UV-resistant Greenwall. This coating adds a pop of bright and bold colour to your Little Pool. You can add it to a single segment, or you can add it all around the outside.

Pick Your Accessories 

Now comes the fun part! Once you pick your size, range, colour and exterior finish, it’s time to pick your accessories. We have several options available that can help you create a unique Little Pool that fits your tastes and lifestyle. Popular accessories include:

• External Steps – Making entering your Little Pool a quick and easy process.
• Balustrades –  Fence off your pool to keep little ones safe as they play in the yard.
• Sanitation Systems – Keep your pool area clean, bright and ready to swim with a tailored sanitation system.
• Swim Jets – Create an exercise area that allows you to swim to your heart’s content with our swim jets.
• Multi-Coloured LED Lighting – Enjoy your Little Pool after dusk or host a party with fun LED lighting.
• Heating Options – Use our heating options to create a spa-like experience in the comfort of your backyard.
• Energy-Efficient Pumps – Keep your pool clean while saving energy; ask about our energy-efficient pump options.

Visit Your Local Compass Pools Today!

If you want advice on whether or not a swim spa is right for you, or you have questions about our Little Pools, stop by one of our showrooms or find your nearest authorised dealer. You can also call us at 1300 667 445 today!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Best Swim Spa appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Different Pool Materials and the Construction Process

Before you get to decide your pool’s shape or size, you have to consider the pool material and construction process involved. There are three main types of pool material you can use, and each one has a different construction process. They include:

Fibreglass

Fibreglass swimming pools come as a large, single shell. A pool installation company will come out and survey your yard. Once you decide on a spot to place your pool, they’ll excavate a hole to match the pool’s unique shape and size. A truck will deliver this fibreglass shell to your home, and the company will lift it into the hole using a crane. Fibreglass pools are ready-made, and this can make it difficult to request a custom design. Most companies that manufacture fibreglass pools have many sizes and models to choose from, and they have pre-formed benches, spas and steps.

Fibreglass is popular for pools because it makes for a rapid pool building process. The interior is very smooth, and this prevents algae from clinging to it. Fibreglass can cost more, and it usually starts to deteriorate after 10 or 15 years.

Concrete with Aggregate or Plaster

If you choose a concrete pool, the pool company will come and excavate the area of your yard where the pool will sit. They’ll frame or line the sides and bottom of the hole with steel rods, and they can turn them into almost any shape you desire. When the company finishes the steel rod placement, they’ll spray either gunite or shotcrete to form the pool shell.

Using this concrete shell with steel bar reinforcement is one of the most popular pool building materials. It has excellent durability, and the concrete itself is very porous. Concrete allows the shell to hold water in, and it is relatively easy to add another coat of plaster years down the line.

Vinyl

Vinyl pools use a plastic or metal frame that the pool company builds above ground, or they can excavate a hole and slip the outer lining inside. The company will place supporting panels or walls made out of aluminium, steel or plastic along the frame before they line in with a thick sheet of vinyl. The bottom is sand, and coping will hold the vinyl’s top-down to create a finished edge.

Vinyl is relatively inexpensive to install, but it does deteriorate in the sun and from exposure to pool chemicals. You can get vinyl liners with UV-protectant coating, but you should only expect your pool to last between 10 to 18 years.

Alternative Finishes

You can choose to have different materials added to your pool’s surface to increase the longevity and give it a sleek look. Popular options include plaster, concrete, stone and tile. Pebble aggregate is gaining popularity because it creates an eye-catching look. When you apply these alternative finish to your pool, they can last between 8 and 12 years.

The Best Pool Shape and Size

Your pool’s shape and size will also play an essential role in how satisfied you are with your pool. Before you decide on a form or size, you want to consider the following:

What is Your Pool’s Purpose?

Will you use your pool a few times a summer and let it sit the other time? If so, you don’t necessarily need a more extensive structure. Maybe you plan to have large family gatherings around your pool. If this is the case, you’d need a more extensive setup. If you plan to use your pool for exercise, you have two options. You can get a larger, more elongated pool to swim laps, or you can get a swim spa where jets keep you in place while you swim, like a treadmill for swimmers.

The deciding factor is the pool’s purpose. You want it to be large enough to accommodate any activities or the number of people who want to use it. If you have three or more in your family, a larger pool is usually the preferred option.

What Are Your Limitations?

You can fantasise about a pool all you want, but the reality is, you’ll most likely have limitations. The cost, time, space and any prefab requirements make up your four most significant limitations.

• Cost – When you consider your pool’s price, size is the most significant factor. Your budget may make you choose between getting a larger pool with sub-par materials or selecting a smaller pool with better materials.
• Time – You’ll spend more time maintaining a bigger pool. If you hire someone to clean it, this won’t be a big deal. However, if you plan to do it yourself, consider how much time you want to invest in cleaning, chemical balancing and maintaining your pool.
• Space – Your pool should fit into your backyard, but it should also leave space for you to move around and host other activities. You’ll need additional space around the pool itself for the deck.
• Prefab Requirements – If you have your heart set on a fibreglass pool or you’re using a kit and doing it yourself; you have limited prefab options. There’s also a maximum size attached to fibreglass pools because they have to travel on trucks.

Who Will Use Your Pool?

Do you plan on having adults only using your pool? If so, having a deeper pool will give you a greater swimming area. If you have kids, having a shallow end or a wading area is an excellent option to consider. Are there any mobility limitations? If there are, maybe you have to have a gentle slope or steps over a traditional ladder. Beach entries usually work best with smaller pools. The goal is to try and plan for the long-term with your pool so you don’t find yourself stuck with something everyone can’t enjoy.

Popular Types of Swimming Pools

Did you know there are over several different kinds of swimmming pools? Along with deciding on a size and shape, considering the pool type is another important factor. At Compass Pools, the different kinds of swimming pools we offer come in small, medium and large sizes, and they include but are not limited to:

• In-Ground – If you have a flat installation site, in-ground pools are a popular option. This type of pool helps to reduce the pool’s final cost.
• Partially  Above-Ground – Maybe you want to have your pool’s ledge meet an existing deck. If so, a partially above-ground installation can be a cost-effective and convenient option to consider.
  
• Above-Ground – Above-ground pools are great for anyone who has a sloping surface or a backyard that isn’t the correct size or shape for a pool.
  
• Plunge – Smaller yards or spaces can benefit from having an elegant plunge pool. This setup is deep, elegant and perfect for hydrotherapy.
• Family – A family pool gives you enough room for all of your family activities. There are several sizes and options available.
• Lap – Lap pools work well for serious swimmers. It’s a narrow pool that comes with custom length options.

The Best Pool Add-Ons

Pool add-ons are features that you don’t necessarily need for the pool to function, but they can help you customise your pool. They can add luxurious or calming elements to your pool, and the most common pool add-ons include:

• Water Features – Water features are stunning add-ons that create an eye-catching look for any pool. You can pick from different materials, heights and spillways to make them truly unique. You’ll hear the serene and tranquil sound of running water each time you step out to your pool.
• Tanning Ledges – Tanning ledges are shallow areas along the edges of your pool that run about a foot deep. You can request benches or chairs to sit and relax in while you enjoy your pool and the warmth of the sun.
• Spa  – A spa is an elevated area of your pool that shares your pool’s water system. The water here is much warmer than the central part, and you can have jets adds to soothe your aches and pains.
• Underwater Lighting – Maybe you want to enjoy your pool at dusk or in the evening hours. Underwater lighting not only looks great, but it helps to make your pool safe to swim in after dark.
• Jets – Jets can give you a soothing element with your pool. You can opt for regular or swim jets if you want something more powerful. Swim jets are ideal for people who wish to exercise in a smaller pool.
• Beach Entry – A beach entry is a sloped entry into your pool. The water starts shallow in one end, and it gradually gets deeper the further into the pool you go.
• Benches – Adding benches into your pool gives you a space to sit and relax. These benches are usually built right into the side of the wall, and you’ll sit in shallow water.

Choosing Vibrant Pool Colours

You don’t have to have boring blue, green or white pools anymore! There are now dozens of dazzling colours you can choose to put on your pool walls. Gel coating gives you dozens of pool colour options and the most popular include:

• Sapphire, Ice Blue or Arctic Marine – Having a light blue or green base with silver, white or deeper blue flakes gives you stunning blue water that has specks of white, light grey and medium blues.
• Royal Blue, Pacific or Atlantic – The dark blue gel coat will turn your pool’s appearance into a very dark blue. This colouring is excellent for day swimming, but it can look almost black at night.
• Beach – The golden brown base comes with flecks of black and lighter brown shades. You’ll enjoy a classic look with crystal-clear water.
• Pearl, Pink Quartz, Quartz or Grey Marble – Some people like the look of quartz because it’s chic. These colours are typically a grey base with white, pink, gold or black speckles, that can look like small rocks.
• Evolution or Viridian – Evolution or Viridian are deeper hues that add an intense and vibrant look to your pool. They help your water sparkle in the sunlight.

Deciding on the Best Filtration System

There are three pool filtration systems you can choose from when you install your pool. Pool filters measure how clean they get your pool in microns. A micron is one-millionth of a metre. To put in perspective, a single strand of human hair is 50 microns while bacteria are 2 microns. The three filter types are cartridge, sand and diatomaceous Earth.

Cartridge Filter

Cartridge filters will work great in small or medium-sized pools. This filter system comes with a tank and a plastic cylinder inside the container. The plastic cylinder comes surrounded by a pleated polyester filter, and there are caps at both ends to hold it in place. Water circulates through the polyester into the tank and out into your pool.

The filter catches any debris that is 10 microns in size or larger. You will have to clean them periodically because they can clog with debris. There is no backwashing, and this filter performs very well at slightly lower speeds.

Sand Filter

Sand filters are for people on a budget who have very little time to maintain their pool’s filtration system. It works well in large pools because it’s challenging to clog. The system sucks pool water through skimmers before forcing it through a large sand tank. The sand traps debris down to 20 microns. This system comes with an external pressure gauge that lets you know when it’s time to backwash the system.

Since this filter doesn’t trap anything below 20 microns, keep up with your pool’s chemistry is critical. If you don’t, you’ll get bacteria in your pool water with you. Sand filters work with #20 silica sand, filter glass and Zeosand.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth filters catch particles down to .5 microns, but they’re also the most labour-intensive option of the three. This filter system has a tank with grids. The grids have a white powdery substance stuck to them. Crushed fossilised remains make up the white powder substance you see.

This pressure forces the water through the tank and the grid. Anything larger than .5 microns will stick to it. There is a pressure gauge on the outside of the unit that tells you when you need to backflush it. However, you now have to add more diatomaceous earth to your grids. You should mix it until you get a slurry and slowly pour it into your filter system. Don’t swim for at least 12 hours after you backflush it.

Picking a Water System

Finally, you want to decide on a water system for your new pool. There are four broad categories you can check before you make your final choice. They include:

Chlorine

Chlorine pools are the traditional water systems. The chlorine treatment comes in granular form, liquid and tablets. When the chlorine hits the pool water, it sets off a chemical reaction. The chlorine will then oxidise any contaminants in your pool water. Chlorine is a residual sanitiser, and this means it works for weeks after you initially added it to the pool. It’s inexpensive, but it can cause dry skin. You’re not supposed to swim for a few hours after treating your pool.

Salt

Saltwater has been a popular choice for pool water systems since the 1980s, a revival of old-fashioned pools in the days before chlorine. The salt you add to the water effectively kills contaminants while giving your water a “softer” feel. This system is lower maintenance than chlorine, and you don’t get that harsh chemical smell when you treat your pool. The salt is also corrosive to the pool and filtration system, and it can be expensive to replace them once the salt corrodes it away.

Mineral

These pools utilise several different minerals to sanitise the pool and improve the water’s quality. When you have a mineral pool, you’ll have water that contains water-balancing chemicals and sanitiser. However, it also contains salt, magnesium chloride, and potassium chloride. There are health benefits associated with swimming in these minerals, and it makes them popular with pool owners throughout Australia.

Natural

A natural pool comes designed to mimic natural lakes and ponds. These pools use a natural filtration system instead of a chemical one to clean the water. With these pools, there is a smaller pool very close to the main pool, and it’s called a regeneration zone. The pool water filters through either constructed wetlands or a gravel filter. This regeneration zone catches the contaminants and pushes clean water back into the main pool.

UV Sanitation

Although chlorine has always been the go-to choice for pool sanitation, UV is a newer option that is gaining popularity. Ultra Violet technology can kill 99.9% of micro-organisms, algae, fungi, viruses and bacteria in your pool’s water. As the swimming pool water circulates, it’ll trigger the cleaning process and the water will pass through a UV lamp. This light from the UV lamp will kill any organisms, and clean water will flow back into your pool.

Compass Pools Can Help You Pick the Best Swimming Pool

If you’re considering picking out a new pool, Compass Pools can help. We have dozens of styles, sizes, shapes, colours, filtration systems, and materials available. We’re happy to answer your questions and help narrow down your options. You can drop by one of our locations, call us on 1300 667 445 or find your nearest authorised dealer.

The post What to Consider When Picking the Best Pool for You appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

More Pool 101 Articles

Eco Pools – how to build a pool that’s better for the environment

Do your bit for the next generation and consider building an eco pool! With growing evidence of the impacts of global warming as well as continually rising electricity costs, it is little wonder that more and more people are paying ...

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How Much Do Above Ground Pools Cost?

One of the first questions most people want answered when purchasing an above ground pool is ‘how much will the above ground pool cost me?’ To answer this question, we will need to combine the initial purchase price as well ...

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Self-cleaning pools vs robot pool cleaners

Like the sound of a self-cleaning pool but find yourself wondering if it is too good to be true? Buying a pool is a big deal for most people, so it stands to reason that we all have a desire ...

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Above-ground pool options

If you like the idea of having your own swimming pool but your site is not well suited to an in-ground solution, then the good news is that you still have plenty of options. Sometimes it simply isn’t practical to ...

Read More

Why you should think like a pool owner when buying a swimming pool

Buying a swimming pool can be a really exciting experience, but if you want to be sure that you remain happy with your choices for years to come, it pays to put yourself in the shoes of a pool owner ...

Read More

What influences the cost of a swimming pool?

Sometimes it can be hard to answer the question “how much will my pool cost” straight off the cuff. The reason for this is simple, each and every backyard is different and there are a number of things that can ...

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How much does an in-ground pool cost?

It comes as no surprise that one of the first questions people usually ask is "how much will my new in-ground pool cost?" The answer to that question is best given in two parts. What will it cost to get ...

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How long does it take to build a pool?

One common question we get asked is "how long will it take to build my new pool?" The answer to that question depends on a number of different factors which include (but are not limited to): The planning process The ...

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Circulation: the key to an easy pool!

I’m not sure about you, but the appeal of having my own swimming pool arises from the idea of having my own backyard oasis – resort-style living at home. I picture sunshine, fun-times, and pure relaxation. What doesn’t immediately spring ...

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Is buying a swimming pool a good investment?

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The post Why you should think like a pool owner when buying a swimming pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Site Inspection to Determine the Price of Your Pool

Hi everyone, Steffan from Compass Pools here.

One of the most common questions I get asked is how much is my swimming pool going to cost? To be honest, that could be a bit of a hard question to answer straight off the cuff. The reason it’s a hard question to answer is simply because everybody’s backyard is different and so differ personal tastes, and I guess, therefore, everybody’s pool project is slightly different from the others.

In order to give you a really good understanding of what your pool project is likely to cost you, the best thing we can do is come out and have a look at your backyard, sit down and discuss with you what it is you’re looking for in your pool and then, once we know that information and we’ve identified any potential challenges that your site might have, we’ll be able to give you a really accurate idea of what your swimming pool’s likely to cost.

Guide to ‘Typical’ Swimming Pool Prices

But I know that what you’re after by watching today’s video is more of a broad guideline. The best way to give you that guideline is to introduce you to our X-Trainer pool range which is what we’ve got behind me here. The X-Trainer range is one of our more popular family pools and may range from 5.8 meters in length all the way up to 11.8 meters in length by 4.2 wide, so quite a big pool at that end of the scale.

Now, imagine at the small end of the scale you have a normal pool installation, lights, filtration equipment, standard filtration. At the other end, you might have the 11.8 meter X-Trainer with all of the bells and whistles that you can imagine like automatic chlorination, pH control systems and, of course, the Vantage self-cleaning system that Compass Pools is really famous for. So, at the entry point, you might be looking at a fully installed cost in the late 30s, let’s say. For that bigger pool with all of the bells and whistles, you might be looking at a total sum somewhere in the late 60s, early 70s. So, that’s a really big scale and, of course, it depends on lots of things like what challenges there are in your backyard. Are there access issues? What’s your soil like? What size pool did you choose and what bells and whistles and extra features would you like added to your pool project? So, somewhere in that scale from the 30s to the 70s depending entirely on your backyard and your preferences.

Cost to Operate Your New Pool

One of the things that I do encourage people to think about, though, is not just what is the pool going to cost to buy. Although that is really important, one of the things that is likely to have a bigger impact on you in the long-term is, actually, how much does it cost to own the pool. In other words, what does it cost to run it and what effort is involved in looking after it? So, if you make the right choices at the beginning and you focus particularly on ensuring your pool has good circulation, you can take steps to make sure that your pool running costs are kept to a bare minimum.

You see, the better your pool is circulated, if your water is circulated from top to bottom, bottom to top as opposed to just along the top of your pool, it will help you save so much money in the long run. You’ll cut your chemical consumption dramatically. You’ll spend less time having to manage your pool water because it’s moving regularly, and when it comes to heating your pool, you’ll find that it’s so much more efficient if you’re mixing the water everywhere. That’s where the Vantage system can come in handy. So, yes, Vantage does mean a larger investment at the beginning, but it will change your life as a pool owner. It will keep your running costs low and, of course, it’ll keep the effort that you have to put into looking after your pool to a bare minimum.

Swimming Pool as an Investment

So, there are a few things you should be thinking about if you’re thinking of investing in a swimming pool. Yes, the upfront cost is an important part in the decision making process and, as we’ve discovered, that range can actually be quite big depending on a number of factors, but the other thing is, how much is that pool going to cost and how much effort is it going to take to look after, because that’s what’s going to have the long-term impact on your enjoyment as a pool owner.

The post What is the price of a new swimming pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

It can take a great deal of time and effort, when you would rather be enjoying the water. But cleaning a pool is essential if you want it to be a safe and healthy environment for you and your family.

There are a number of different options available to you when it comes to pool cleaners. We have put together the ultimate guide to swimming pool cleaning. Here we outline the options and what each one means for you.

Why you need to know how to clean a pool

Every swimming pool needs a good filtration system to circulate the water. This is essential as it helps to minimise algae and bacteria, and regulate the pH levels in your pool. It also ensures that your pool water remains healthy and hygienic. However, a filtration system alone is not enough to provide a clean environment for swimming.

Adding chlorine or salt is another essential part of cleaning a pool. However, these can amass in large quantities over time. And this can inadvertently create an ideal environment for bacteria and algae to breed. Obviously, this is the exact opposite of what you want to achieve.

Also, as the vast majority of pools are located outdoors, there will be times when leaves and other debris will find their way into the pool. These cannot be removed by chemical means or the filtration system. You need to know how to clean a pool so you can keep using and enjoying it safely and hygienically.

Different types of swimming pool cleaners

Swimming pool cleaning can be achieved using a number of different methods. The main types of pool cleaners include:

Manual pool cleaning

This literally means cleaning your pool by hand using a number of pieces of swimming pool cleaning equipment, such as:

• A telescopic pole which extends far enough to clean the walls and floor of your pool
• A skimmer net, which attaches to the telescopic pole to collect any debris that has found its way into the pool
• A pool brush, which attaches to the pole to scrub dirt and algae from the walls and floor of the pool
• A manual pool vacuum with a hose long enough to reach all areas of the pool, and a vacuum head which attaches to the telescopic pole.

All this equipment needs to be good quality and suitable for the type of pool you have. For example, an unpainted concrete pool requires a brush with stainless steel and nylon bristles. Painted concrete or fibreglass pools should only be brushed with all-nylon brushes.

As you might expect, manual pool cleaning takes a lot of time and effort. If you lead a busy lifestyle without much free time, you would be much better considering investing in a different type of pool cleaner.

How often should you manually clean your pool?

Your pool should be skimmed every day to keep it safe and healthy. It will also need to be brushed at least twice a week, and vacuumed every two or three days.

Automatic pool cleaners

Cleaning a pool is far easier with an automatic pool cleaner. Most pool owners these days have some kind of automatic cleaner rather than choosing to clean their pools manually. These cut down dramatically on the amount of time and hard work involved.

Automatic pool cleaners do cost more than the equipment required for manual pool cleaning. But the investment makes sense as it enables you to spend much more of your free time enjoying your pool instead of cleaning it.

There are three main types of automatic pool cleaners. These all operate differently:

1. Suction side cleaners

Suction side cleaners hook up to your skimmer, which is the part of your pool filtration system that sucks the water out of the pool to be filtered. The cleaner moves around the floor of your pool picking up dirt and debris. It is propelled by the motion of the water being sucked through it. Some suction side cleaners can also climb pool walls to keep those clean too.

Suction side cleaners are relatively easy to clean and maintain, and they are also the cheapest of all the types of automatic pool cleaner. However, they can only work when the pool pump is running. This can use more energy as you will need to run your pool pump for longer so the pool can be cleaned while you are not using it. This type of cleaner can also put a strain on your pool filter over time.

2. Pressure side cleaners

Pressure side cleaners hook up to the return jets, the parts of your filtration system which propel the water back into your pool once it has been filtered. Pressure side cleaners have a filter bag and a sweep hose. This makes them more advanced and effective at picking up debris and cleaning the pool than suction side cleaners. As a result, they come at a higher price.

The cleaner is moved around the pool by the water being pushed back out of the return jets. This loosens any dirt and debris, which is pushed up into the filter bag. The result is an effective and efficient pool cleaner.

However, there are many different types of pressure side cleaners on the market. That’s why it is essential to choose the right model for your pool, particularly when it comes to the amount of power in the cleaner.

3. Robotic pool cleaners

Robotic pool cleaners are the most advanced and effective of all automatic pool cleaners. They run on electricity, so they operate completely separately from the rest of your pool system. You don’t need it to be connected to the filtration system of your pool.

Robotic pool cleaners operate on very low voltages, and they have extra-long power cords. They are specifically designed to be safe for use in the water, in spite of being electrical devices. In addition, they can only be plugged into sockets which are designed to cut out automatically if any electrical imbalance is detected. Every safety precaution is taken and you can use a robotic pool cleaner without worrying.

Robotic pool cleaners are the most expensive of all automatic pool cleaners. But they are a wise investment due to the amount of time and effort they can save you. They have their own brushes and vacuum attached, enabling them to clean every area of your pool thoroughly. This allows you to maintain a healthy and hygienic pool environment without the stress and effort of cleaning the pool yourself.

Robotic pool cleaners do require regular cleaning and maintenance. But this is a small inconvenience when compared to the amount of time they save you.

Self-cleaning pools

For the ultimate in easy swimming pool cleaning, you can invest in a self-cleaning pool. This might sound like something from the future, but it is actually available today thanks to the latest smart pool technology.

In-floor pool cleaner systems literally clean the pool from bottom to top themselves, so you don’t need to do anything at all. Your pool can clean itself while you are asleep or out of the house. This leaves you with a fresh and hygienic pool to jump straight into whenever you want.

The Vantage in-floor pool cleaner system, exclusive to Compass Pools Australia, has led the way in this innovative new technology. It is available as an option with all fibreglass pools from Compass.

The Vantage system operates via a number of nozzles which integrated within the pool floor. They lie completely flush when the system is not in use. This does not cause any obstruction when swimming or any negative impacts on the appearance of the pool.

The nozzles release jets of freshly filtered water throughout the pool, pushing all dirt and debris into a designated cannister. The system is completely silent and can be automated, so you can set the pool to clean itself at times which are convenient for you.

The benefits of an in-floor cleaner system

The Vantage self-cleaning pool system makes your pool cleaner and more hygienic than any other method of pool cleaning. This is because the water is circulated from the bottom of the top of the pool. The entire pool is cleaned, leaving no spots where bacteria and algae can grow.

Most automated systems simply push the filtered water in at the top of the pool, only circulating the top third of the water. This means algae and bacteria can still grow at the bottom, leaving your pool unclean.

In addition, the pool chemicals are circulated evenly throughout the pool as well as the water. This means the pool requires far smaller amounts of chemicals to clean it. This creates a healthier, more environmentally-friendly pool that saves you money on pool chemical supplies.

Another benefit is that it vastly reduces the dry skin, irritated eyes and breathing difficulties that can come from swimming in pools containing too much chlorine. This is particularly important if you have children. You can enjoy peace of mind that comes from not having to store large quantities of potentially hazardous pool cleaning chemicals on your property.

In addition, it makes your entire property safer for children. There is no need to store large quantities of potentially harmful pool cleaning chemicals that the kids could get into.

Are there any disadvantages of in-floor pool cleaners?

Self-cleaning pools are truly revolutionary. They make your pool smarter and more eco-friendly and free up significant amounts of your precious time. You can spend this extra time swimming and relaxing in the pool, or bonding with your family in the water.

However, like all systems, there are a number of points which it is important to be aware of if you are considering purchasing an in-floor pool cleaner system.

1. All systems are different

The Vantage self-cleaning system is only one of a number of in-floor pool cleaning systems available on today’s swimming pool market. Just as Vantage is completely exclusive to Compass Pools, the manufacturers of other in-floor cleaners make their systems exclusive to their pools, too.

This means you really need to do your research when looking at in-ground pool cleaners. It is important that the pool and the cleaning system available with it both suit your needs. Every system will have different features, so you need to compare these when choosing your pool manufacturer.

2. They cannot be fitted retrospectively

As in-ground pool cleaners are literally built into the floor of your swimming pool, they have to be installed at the time of manufacture. This means you will have to choose an in-floor pool cleaner at the time when you order your pool. The pool shell can be built with the cleaning system already installed.

Unfortunately, this means if you have an older pool without a self-cleaning system, you cannot have one fitted. However, if you are considering purchasing a pool at present, it makes sense to include an in-ground pool cleaner. This will make your pool ownership more of a pleasure and less of a chore.

3. They can be expensive

The amount of technology that goes into producing an in-floor pool cleaner system is significant. And this can add a sizeable amount to the overall purchase price of your pool. However, over time they can save you money as you will have to purchase far smaller amounts of pool cleaning chemicals.

In addition, the amount of time they save you is considerable. You will have plenty more hours to spend enjoying your pool rather than maintaining it.

Find out more about the self-cleaning pool

At Compass Pools, we are always happy to provide you with more help and information about all the optional extras we can provide with our fibreglass pools. If you would like to know more about the Vantage in-floor self-cleaning system and consider having it installed in your new pool, please talk to one of our authorised dealers. They are always happy to answer all your questions and discuss your pool project with you.

The post Swimming pool cleaners: Your options explained appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Below, we have taken an in-depth look at pool circulation systems. You can find out why they matter so much, what they do, and what your options are when it comes to choosing the best system for your pool.

Why circulating your pool water matters

If the water in your pool is not moving, it is not healthy. Think of what happens to a pond or stream when it can only flow slowly – the water turns green and goes stagnant. Swimming pool water is no different. So, if you want to maintain a clean pool which is safe and healthy to swim in, you need an effective pool water circulation system.

Failing to circulate your pool water properly can have all kinds of negative consequences for your pool. Algae and bacteria can grow on the underwater surfaces, which ruin the appearance of your pool as well as being potentially harmful to your health. Have your ears ever hurt after swimming? This is caused by bacteria which has unwittingly been left to grow and multiply in the pool water.

For the sake of you and your family’s health, you need to ensure your swimming pool jets are doing their job and the pool water is being circulated properly.

In addition, correct pool water circulation makes it far easier for you to keep your pool clean. As you will know if you are a pool owner, cleaning the pool can be a laborious and time consuming job. And nobody looks forward to it!

However, it is far harder if algae and bacteria are growing in your pool. If you have an effective pool water circulation system, it makes for easy pool ownership. This improves the entire experience of having your own pool, not just swimming in it.

What makes a good pool water circulation system?

Australian pool standards recommend that the entire volume of water in your pool needs to be pumped out, filtered, sanitised and recycled back into the pool at least once a day. That’s a lot of water to move and treat within a 24-hour period.

Some traditional pool circulation systems are capable of achieving this. However, there can be problems arising from their operation. In order to understand these issues, it is important to know how these traditional systems work.

How a traditional “eyeball and skimmer” system works

A traditional pool water circulation system, which most backyard pools have, is known as an “eyeball and skimmer” system. The “skimmer” refers to the pool skimmer box, which is powered by a pump and removes the pool surface water. This water is then propelled through the pool filter box which cleans it before returning it to the pool through the pool return jets.

These pool jets are known as “eyeballs” due to their shape. They are usually located between 30cm and 60cm beneath the surface of the water, on the wall opposite the pool skimmer box.

This might seem like a reliable method of circulating your pool water. But it does have a number of significant disadvantages:

1. Your pool set up needs to be powerful enough

Your pool pump needs to be powerful enough to cope with circulating the entire volume of water in your pool every day. If you have a large pool, you will need an extremely powerful pool system.

This is not something which every pool owner researches thoroughly enough before they buy. As a result, many pool water circulation systems are inadequate for the job they are expected to do. The result is that your pool water will not be circulated quickly enough. It can become stagnant and create the right conditions for algae and bacteria to grow.

2. Pool pumps can be expensive to run

Pool pumps can cost a significant amount of money to run. This is especially the case if you have an older pool and filtration system. Old systems are not nearly as energy-efficient as modern pool technologies.

Because of this, many pool owners restrict the time that they leave their pool pumps operational to cut down on energy usage and costs. This can be detrimental to the sanitation of your pool water.

If the pool pump is not left on for long enough, it will not have time to circulate enough of the water. And much of the pool will still contain unfiltered water which can have bacteria lurking in it.

3. Not all pool systems circulate all the water

The most serious problem with an eyeball and skimmer system arises from the positioning of the pool jets. As they are located so close to the surface of the water, only the top third of the water is getting re-circulated over and over again. This means the water nearer the bottom is never getting circulated or cleaned. In addition, your pool chemicals are not being distributed evenly throughout the whole of the pool.

This can cause serious problems. The unfiltered water in the bottom two-thirds of the pool continues getting dirtier. It can create ideal conditions for bacteria and algae to breed.

You can think your pool is clean and the circulation system is doing its job, but everything might not be as it seems. Suddenly you can find your ears hurting after swimming, or your pool turning green. Without the right pool circulation system in place, it is difficult to know what to do about these issues.

This circulation problem can also result in the heat not being distributed to all areas of the pool, producing “cold spots” lower down in the water. Having an unevenly heated pool can seriously impede your swimming enjoyment as well as increase your energy bills. It requires much more heat for your pool to reach a comfortable temperature.

Alternatives to traditional pool water circulation systems

Just like all technology, pool innovations are moving on all the time. These days easy pool ownership is possible thanks to some of the innovative pool cleaning and circulation systems which are now available on the market.

In-floor pool cleaning systems are becoming more and more popular with pool owners in Australia, and with good reason. These systems solve all the problems which can occur due to traditional eyeball and skimmer systems. They also provide a number of other important advantages for those looking for an easy pool to clean and maintain.

The Vantage in-floor self-cleaning system from Compass Pools Australia has led the way in this innovative technology. Designed by some of the top innovators and engineers in swimming pool design, it works in a highly efficient and effective way. This ensures that all of your pool water is circulated continuously, creating a clean and healthy pool environment.

The Vantage system is truly smart pool technology. A series of nozzles are embedded within the floor of the pool. When the system is not operational, these nozzles lie flat, so you cannot see them and they do not impede on your swimming space in any way.

When you set the system to operate, the nozzles raise up, shooting clean water upwards towards the top of the pool in a circular motion.

This process ensures that all of the pool water is constantly being circulated, not just the top third. As a result, every area of the pool is cleaned, and the pool chemicals and heat are distributed evenly throughout the pool. This eliminates cold spots, and it also ensures that there are no areas where bacteria or algae can begin to grow.

The Vantage in-floor pool self-cleaning system also has a number of other advantages for pool owners:

1. Your pool literally cleans itself

The highly efficient circulation of the Vantage in-floor pool cleaning system ensures that the water is cleaner, healthier and safer. This is because of the even distribution of your pool chemicals and the entirety of the pool water being circulated.

However, it does much more than this in keeping your pool clean. The powerful pool jets in the floor of the pool also push dirt and debris into a collection zone. From here it is pushed by a single nozzle into the main drain and collects in a specially designated debris canister.

This cleans your pool more effectively than any form of manual or robotic cleaner. You save significant amounts of time and effort in cleaning your pool and this allows you to enjoy the pool more fully.

2. It saves you money

Due to the extremely high efficiency of the Vantage pool system, it requires far less energy to run than a traditional pool circulation system. It also only needs less than half the amount of pool chemicals as they are circulated much more effectively.

This saves you significant amounts of money – up to $600 a year – on energy bills and pool maintenance costs. In addition, it has a positive impact on the environment due to reduced energy usage, something we all need to think about today.

Of course, no system is perfect. The main problem with in-floor pool water circulation systems is that they cannot be fitted retrospectively. If you already have a pool, you cannot have it adapted to include an in-floor system.

However, if you are considering buying a pool, it is an important consideration to think about. A number of pool companies in Australia now offer their own in-floor pool cleaning and circulation systems. These are only available with their own pools, just as Vantage is only available with Compass fibreglass pools. It is important to do your research and find out exactly which pool water circulation suits your needs best.

Find out more about pool water circulation

The right pool water circulation system is key to an easy-to-maintain pool. It improves the quality of your swimming experience as well as making your pool more low-maintenance. With the choice of systems available, there is sure to be one which can meet all your needs.

If you would like more information about the Vantage in-floor self-cleaning system, or any other Compass Pools features and options, you can find details on our website. Alternatively, please contact us to discuss your needs, and our team will be happy to help.

The post Pool water circulation: Is your pool system doing its job? appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

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More Pool 101 Articles

Eco Pools – how to build a pool that’s better for the environment

Do your bit for the next generation and consider building an eco pool! With growing evidence of the impacts of global warming as well as continually rising electricity costs, it is little wonder that more and more people are paying ...

Read More

How Much Do Above Ground Pools Cost?

One of the first questions most people want answered when purchasing an above ground pool is ‘how much will the above ground pool cost me?’ To answer this question, we will need to combine the initial purchase price as well ...

Read More

Self-cleaning pools vs robot pool cleaners

Like the sound of a self-cleaning pool but find yourself wondering if it is too good to be true? Buying a pool is a big deal for most people, so it stands to reason that we all have a desire ...

Read More

Above-ground pool options

If you like the idea of having your own swimming pool but your site is not well suited to an in-ground solution, then the good news is that you still have plenty of options. Sometimes it simply isn’t practical to ...

Read More

Why you should think like a pool owner when buying a swimming pool

Buying a swimming pool can be a really exciting experience, but if you want to be sure that you remain happy with your choices for years to come, it pays to put yourself in the shoes of a pool owner ...

Read More

What influences the cost of a swimming pool?

Sometimes it can be hard to answer the question “how much will my pool cost” straight off the cuff. The reason for this is simple, each and every backyard is different and there are a number of things that can ...

Read More

How much does an in-ground pool cost?

It comes as no surprise that one of the first questions people usually ask is "how much will my new in-ground pool cost?" The answer to that question is best given in two parts. What will it cost to get ...

Read More

How long does it take to build a pool?

One common question we get asked is "how long will it take to build my new pool?" The answer to that question depends on a number of different factors which include (but are not limited to): The planning process The ...

Read More

Circulation: the key to an easy pool!

I’m not sure about you, but the appeal of having my own swimming pool arises from the idea of having my own backyard oasis – resort-style living at home. I picture sunshine, fun-times, and pure relaxation. What doesn’t immediately spring ...

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Is buying a swimming pool a good investment?

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The post Is a spa pool the right choice for you? appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

The post Sustainable pools: How to create an environmentally friendly pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.