Friday, May 30, 2014

What the Law Says About Above Ground Pools in Tewksbury, MA

First settled in 1637, Tewksbury is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts with a population of about 30,000. It is situated about 19 miles north-northwest of Boston and has the Merrimack River forming part of its northern boundary.

Summers in the area can be hot and humid, which makes above ground pools an attractive addition to anyone's home. Aside from being more affordable than inground pools, above ground pools are more practical and easier to maintain, too.

But what does the law say about owning above ground pools?

First off, there is a law that requires covers on in-pool filtration systems. This is to prevent swimmers, especially children, from getting injured when the pool filter's suction gets hold of them.

While most pool laws differ from state to state, some of the other common laws require having a pool fence erected to keep children out when not in use. Usually, these same laws include a provision requiring gates to be locked when an adult is not present.

Of course, there are construction laws and codes to follow when installing a pool, and it's wise to follow these to the T. The laws often require the proper installation of pool lighting and other special electrical components to avoid electrocution. Always have a professional electrician install these up to code.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Where to Get an Above Ground Pool in North Reading, MA

North Reading is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts with a population of about 15,000. First settled in 1651, the town has seen success through the years as a farming town and boot and shoe making center.

Summers in North Reading can get pretty uncomfortable, and though air conditioners work, sometimes taking a dip in a pool is the surest way to stay cool and relax. Because not everyone has the time to travel to the nearest swimming hole, many look to above ground pools for easy access to water.

It's no secret that above ground pools are more affordable, easier to maintain, and much more customizable than inground pools. But where can you get one?

The answer - Ambassador Pools.

Ambassador Pools is a family-owned and operated swimming pool dealer and they offer the finest above ground pools on the market today. Without using subcontractors, you only get direct service from them.

For those who have no idea where to start when it comes to purchasing an above ground pool, you can be sure that Ambassador Pools' sales team will help you every step of the way, from informing you of its benefits, to helping you choose the right pool for you, your home, and your family.

Summers in North Reading need not be an uncomfortably hot affair. Call Ambassador Pools today and learn how you can have your very own above ground pool in your backyard.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

West Newbury, MA Above Ground Pool Facts

Situated on the Merrimack River, West Newbury in Essex County, Massachusetts has a population of about 4,300. It was first settled in 1635, turning into a rural farming town until it evolved into the affluent community it is today.

Many West Newbury residents love the water, and as such, when the weather gets hot enough, they look to cool off by taking a swim. Since not everyone can visit the nearest watering hole everyday, many look to buy an above ground pool, instead, for easy access to some water.

If you are planning to buy an above ground pool, here are some facts to consider:

Since a pool requires a lot of water, and must be replenished from time to time, make sure you install your pool near a water source so you can easily top off the water level whenever needed.

While many think they can set up an above ground pool by themselves, it's best to call in a professional to ensure that the installation is done correctly - from ensuring that the ground is level, to putting the right substrate underneath the pool. Some excavation and landscaping may be needed, as well as other heavy duty lifting. In other words, get professional help. 

Also, be sure to take into account that your pool will require proper maintenance, which means long-term costs. The good news though is that maintaining an above ground pool is more affordable than maintaining an inground one. 

While owning an above ground pool requires dedication, time, and money, it is all worth it. Besides, it is still significantly easier to own an above ground pool than an inground one, so you will still be ahead.

To learn more about above ground pools, its installation and maintenance, call Ambassador Pools today!

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Finding a Leak in Your Wenham, MA Above Ground Pool

Originally settled in 1635, Wenham in Essex County, Massachusetts has been listed by Boston magazine as one of the Best Places to Live. With open views of farm lands, lakes, woodland, historic homes, and nearly 300 acres of parks and playgrounds, it's easy to see why.

But when the weather gets hot, the best way to make living in Wenham even better is to have an above ground pool installed. Many residents have one already, and if you're on the fence on buying one, time to take the plunge. You're in good company.

However, every once in awhile, a leak may spring up in or around your above ground pool, and locating it can be an exercise in futility if you don't know what you are doing. Here are some tips to help you locate that leak in your swimming pool.

First, confirm that you have a leak. Mark your pool's level and after 24 hours, double check it. You shouldn't lose more than ¼ inch a day. If you lose more, a leak is involved.

To find the leak, it's best to check the obvious culprits first. Check the equipment pad, the filter, pump, heater and pipe valves. These have moving parts and are more prone to wear and tear.

Check the area around the pool and take note where the wet areas are. Chances are the leaks are close by.

If you have a vinyl liner pool, check for tears, and separations.

If you can't find the leak, call Ambassador Pools and have an expert pool repairman come to your home. If you do find the leak, it's best to still call a repairman to help you fix it. While you may be adept at fixing leaks, an above ground pool is a different beast altogether, and repairing a leak requires expert knowledge.

While a leak may be irritating, having it repaired only takes a short while before it's good as new. When in doubt, always call a professional to avoid worsening the situation. Call Ambassador Pools today if you feel your pool has a leak!

Why Choose an Above Ground Pool in West Boxford, MA?

A town in Essex County, Massachusetts, Boxford lies about 24 miles north of Boston with a population of about 8,000. Summers in Boxford can get uncomfortably hot, so many residents look for alternative ways to stay cool off at home. One of the more popular choices is getting an above ground pool.

Inground or above ground, that is the question. So why should you go for an above ground pool anyway - when everyone knows that inground pools are the traditional choice?

For starters, above ground pools are significantly more affordable – to install and to maintain. What's more, it's tax-free. Unlike inground pools where you need to pay annual taxes on it.

Affordability is one thing, but how does it perform compared to inground pools? It might come as a surprise for some, but above ground pools do the same thing inground pools do, plus much more. Both keep you cool, that's a given. But above ground pools have a leg up on inground pools by being much safer. While kids and pets may fall into inground pools, the raised profile (plus optional fence and gate) of above ground pools makes it more difficult.

Another thing, above ground pools are fully customizable. Sure you can customize an inground pool during installation, but once installed, what if you suddenly change your mind? You'd have to excavate and redo the whole thing all over again. With above ground pools, you only need to replace the deck with another without having to drain the pool, excavate, or dismantle it.

Going back to maintenance, while it costs less to maintain an above ground pool, what makes it more special is that the amount of maintenance required isn't as involved as it is with inground pools. Whether you maintain the pool or yourself or hire a professional to do it, above ground pools are much easier to keep in good working order.

These are but a few reasons to go with an above ground pool. If you've been on the fence about buying a pool before, consider above ground pools to help you with your decision. You can't lose. Call Ambassador Pools today and ask how they can make your pool-owning dreams come true!

Planning for an Above Ground Pool in Topsfield, MA

Located in Essex County, Massachusetts, the town of Topsfield is a place filled with history. From the first tribes that settled here, to the Salem witch trials, Minutemen, and Civil War, the village has seen its share of history.

But what was once a small farm town evolved into a suburban bedroom community in the modern age thanks to automobiles.

As a bedroom community, residents look at Topsfield as a place to relax and to unwind. As the dog days of summer come, many look to have they own pool to cool down and relax in anytime they want. But as it is with everything else in life, you don't purchase a pool impulsively. You need to plan for it first.

You must first decide how the pool will be used. Will it be strictly for relaxing? Or will it be used for exercising, as well? Knowing how you'll use it will determine the best shape and location of your pool.

Next, you need to consider the financial obligations an above ground pool entails. While significantly less expensive than inground pools, you still need to be able to maintain your above ground pool.

The third step will have you looking at the size of your yard. The overall size will help pool professionals figure out what size pool is needed and how to navigate over slopes, rocky patches, and other landscaping problems.

Next, you consult a pool professional and decide on your pool's design. With the help of a professional, you can choose the materials needed for the deck, patio area, or even special water features. A professional will give you options, you will decide, and together you both will make it happen.

Finally, you choose the safety and maintenance equipment that will be needed with your above ground pool.


Thursday, May 22, 2014

How to Shop for an Above Ground Swimming Pool

The first question most folks ask us is "what is a cost of a swimming pool"?  The price of purchasing an above ground pool can range from $500 to $45,000. 

Unfortunately, many people run into a road block when they research online as to how much an on-ground or above ground swimming pool really is going to cost. This article will help to make the process of shopping for a pool a bit easier.  We'll try to explain what to look for and what items to avoid.

Choosing the type of Pool:
 
There are two options when it comes to deciding on what type of pool you may want.  They are:
1. Above Ground Pools
2. In-Ground Pools

Although there are endless options the main things to know about the two main categories are:
 
1. Above Ground Pools are portable.  You move, you can take your pool.
2. In-Ground pools are a permanent fixed item.  You'll need to consider this and how long you'll be in your home before you determine what suits your needs.

Material for construction:
 
There are 3 main types of material that most pools are constructed out of including vinyl liner, gunite or concrete and fiberglass.  Each material has benefits and draw backs that need to be considered.  Within the above ground pool category the most common material is a vinyl liner system.  The split between in-ground pools for material is about 50-50 from fiberglass to concrete.

Options:
 
With any pool design you want to get a professional experienced pool planner to help you think through how you'll be using the pool and all the surrounding area.  Proper planning ensures your family can safely enjoy this backyard space.  Additionally, you'll want to make sure you take time to organize your pool budget so it has enough funds to ensure all local municipal codes are met.

Cost:
 
For most people a great option to get a lot of pool for the money and still have the ability to relocate the pool an above ground pool is the way to go.  Within the above ground pool market you'll find online hundreds of sizes, shapes, warranties and prices.  Cheap pools like you find in box stores or d-i-y websites typically have a low ball price shown just to get the consumer's interest.  As with most anything, if you buy a low end product you'll be disappointed and probably have to replace the item in a year or so.  With today's new technology many of the above ground pools are so well built they last for a very long time.  These pools also have decks, fencing, pumps and filters all included in a package price.

The cheapo pools from the box stores run from $250-3,000, plus you need to hire someone to install it.  A high end pool such as the Kayak (a rectangular pool) will cost about $15,000 installed with many features.

Gunite Pools with a side spa, finished pebble bottom and a salt filtration system could price tag in the $50,000 - $100,000 area.

Tips of Success:
 
First, find a pool company who has been in business a long time.  Check their Better Business Bureau rating.  Ask them for references of people who have one of their pools.  Do not even consider buying the pool online to save a few bucks and then have problems with getting it installed, getting warranty work done, etc.  If you call a pool company and they don't offer to send out a consultant to checkout your yard and take the time to help you plan, move on to another firm.

Pools are wonderful and fun.  They allow families to spend time together, to get exercise and to just relax and enjoy each others company.  Be sure that the pool you pick is right for your needs.



Why Get an Above Ground Pool in South Hamilton?

Part of Hamilton in Essex County, Massachusetts, South Hamilton is home to the main campus of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, which is an interdenominational evangelical seminary. It's known as the site of General Patton's summer home, too.

As summer approaches in South Hamilton, many residents yearn to cool down by taking a swim. But since not everyone can visit the sea everyday, the next best option is to get a pool. Given the prohibitive costs of inground pools, though, prospective pool owners turn their sites to a more practical alternative – above ground pools.

Why should you get an above ground pool? For starters, installing one won't break the bank like an inground pool would. Above ground pools are also easy to maintain, and are generally safer. These three reasons alone should be enough, but there's more to love.

As you own an above ground pool, you will realize how much more practical it is over an inground version. Maintenance won't cost much, and it is tax-free. This means you don't have to pay yearly taxes on the above ground pool as you would with an inground one.

And what if you move homes in the near future? If you own an inground pool, you'd have to leave it behind and have another built wherever you are moving to next. But with an above ground pool, you can have it dismantled then reinstalled wherever you choose.

When it comes to looks, many would argue that above ground pools are not as attractive as inground pools are. However, given the many customizable options you have with above ground pools, you can make your pool much more attractive than any inground pool. From decks to accessories, the only thing that limits your above ground pool's aesthetic potential is your imagination.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

The Best Time to Buy an Above Ground Pool in Salisbury, MA

A town in Essex County, Massachusetts, Salisbury is a popular summer resort beach town north of Boston. It's close to the Atlantic Ocean, which makes it no surprise how residents here have a special affinity for the water.

However, not everyone has the time to go take a swim everyday in the ocean, which makes owning a pool a very attractive idea for most. Given the prohibitive price of inground pools though, many look to above ground pools as a more practical alternative.

But when is the best time to buy an above ground pool in Salisbury?

The usual tradition is to buy in mid-summer or early fall, when many great deals on above ground pools come up. However, the current economy has changed the rules somewhat, helping you save a couple hundred dollars if you know where to look.

Fluctuating prices can be found all around, and you can easily find a great deal on above ground pools any time of the year.

When it comes to aesthetics, above ground pools can be as simple as you want, or as elaborate as you need. With various options, accessories, and features you can add, there's no reason why above ground pools can't compete aesthetically with inground pools.

If you are on the market for an above ground pool, call Ambassador Pools and ask around which deals are available.

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Above Ground Pool Safety in Salem, MA

More commonly known for its cultural identity as the location of the Salem witch trials, Salem in Massachusetts has a population of about 42,000 and is mostly a residential and tourist area. The city is also recognized as the birthplace of the US National Guard.

Summer in Massachusetts can be quite pleasing and perfect for taking a swim. While not everyone can visit the ocean to take a dip everyday, many residents look to own their own above ground pool to cool off anytime they want to.

For those who already own one, or those planning to, one of the more important features you should take into consideration is safety. As such, here are a few safety products you might want to utilize for your above ground pool.

For starters, a fence can be especially useful to keep children from gaining unsupervised access to the pool. A fence can be installed around the pool edge and along the stairway. For added safety and security, you should add a gate as well.

Similar to the fence are hand rails and stair rails for extra protection against slipping.

Another pool safety feature you can install is a pool alarm. There is a sensor alarm available that can detect intrusions by children weighing 18 pounds and above. This can also be used to detect pets, intruders, and other unwanted visitors from gaining access. Easy to install, you won't have to worry about who gains access to your pool.

You can also add signs all around the pool. Depth markers are also very important and signs should remind swimmers to not jump or run around the pool.

Above ground pools are safe for everyone, but it won't hurt to be extra cautious. If own an above ground pool, or are planning to get one, be sure to ask about safety features and accessories you can use for your own peace of mind.

Monday, May 19, 2014

Getting an Above Ground Pool in Rowley, MA

Rowley is a town located in Essex County, Massachusetts. It has a population of about 6,000 and was originally settled in 1639. Today, many colonial homes still line the streets, mixed in with various architectural styles from throughout American history.

Lying along the Atlantic Ocean, locals have a special affinity for water. Of course, when the weather gets too hot, swimming and taking a dip is one of the more popular ways to cool off. However, not everyone can go down the ocean everyday just to cool off, which makes above ground pools a very viable option for those looking to beat the heat.

What makes above ground pools so popular?

First, there's the price. Costing way less than inground pools, above ground pools are much more affordable and easier to maintain, too. Plus, the fact that it is tax-free, many prospective pool owners would rather go with the above ground instead of the inground ones.

Above ground pools are also very customizable. Where inground pools would have you sticking with one design for the rest of its life, above ground pools can change appearance any time. You can switch out pool decks, from wood, to plastic, to steel, or even stone. Lights can be installed, and you can even change out the safety railings.

Aside from aesthetics, above ground pools are safe for kids and pets, too. Optional fences and gates can be installed to ensure that no one under a certain height can enter without adult supervision. Sensors are available, too, just in case.

While these are just a few examples of the benefits and advantages of above ground pools, many more can be learned if you call Ambassador Pools and ask.

Having your own personal pool need not be expensive and out-of-reach. Join the multitude of current above ground pool owners who are enjoying the benefits of owning their own slice of heaven in their backyard.

Call Ambassador Pools today and ask how they can make your pool owning dreams a reality.

Friday, May 16, 2014

Above Ground Pool Cartridge Filter Maintenance in Rockport, MA

A town in Essex County, Massachusetts, Rockport is located at the tip of the Cape Ann peninsula, surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic Ocean. The area is considered one of the best fishing areas in New England, and is home to a number of lobster fishermen. Today, it is a suburban residential and tourist town.

Since its rocky beaches and seaside parks are a favorite for tourists, residents have to find alternative ways to cool off in the summer without having to deal with the crowds. While owning an inground pool can be rather expensive, above ground pools offer the best alternative with their efficiency, practicality, and affordability.

Above ground pools require little maintenance compared to inground ones, and are installed with a double drain and pump to clean the water. But every once in awhile, you might find the water clarity to be less than ideal. This is caused by many things, but the most important factors are: chemical balance, quality filtration, and adequate circulation.

When your pool has water clarity issues, the first thing you should ask yourself is  when did you last clean your pool's filter? Sure, other factors may come into play, but your pool's filter should be investigated first since this is the part that is most easily forgotten.

A pool cartridge filter captures tiny particles as the water passes through it which, over time, can build up. A dirty filter reduces the pump's efficiency and circulation by as much as 80%, making your pool's water dirty.

The frequency on which you should clean your pool's filter depends on the size of the pool, and it can range from every 1 to 3 weeks.

If you are having water clarity issues with your above ground pool, check your filter first. If you aren't sure how, or if you need help, feel free to call Ambassador Pools and let a professional help you.

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Some Facts About Getting an Above Ground Pool in Prides Crossing, MA

Prides Crossing is a section of the City of Beverly, Massachusetts that's steeped in history. Unlike other formal areas, Prides Crossing does not have any formal boundaries and is just considered to exist between numbers 407 and 600 Hale St.

Prides Crossing was once an area where many late 1800s and early 1900s grand mansions were built as summer homes for the wealthy. While not all residents today own grand mansions, homes can still be made to become 'summer' getaways with a little creativity.

Summers can be hot, and the best way to cool off is by taking a dip in a pool. To complete the summer look of your Prides Crossing home, consider getting an above ground pool. For those who are planning to get one, while relatively easy to own and maintain, should still consider these facts:

Above ground pool liners protect the pool and the area around it. While made tough, there is still a chance the liner can break or get damaged. It's important to check the liner every few months to ensure your above ground pool works as it should.

When winter comes around, you might have to drain the pool to avoid freezing, since ice expands and your pool might be damaged. Be sure to cover your pool, as well, to prevent animals or kids from climbing inside.

Always be sure to check water levels since it can evaporate. Replace lost water by refilling it when needed. This can be done once a year, so it's not that hard of a job.

When installing an above ground pool, take into consideration its access. Most above ground pools will have a ladder, but you might want to invest in having a deck or patio area to make access easier to get into and out of the pool.

Be sure to clean your pool at least once a week and check the pH balance and chemical levels of the pool. Why? So algae and other living organisms are kept at bay. While above ground pools are built with a double drain and pump to clean the water, you should need to check it every once in a while to ensure proper cleanliness.


Wednesday, May 14, 2014

What's to Love About Above Ground Pools in Peabody, MA?

Peabody, Massachusetts. A city in Essex County, with a population of 51, 251 as of 2010, is located in the North Shore area of the state and was once known as "the Farms." Starting out as a farming community, it became a major center for leather up until the mid-20th century. Today, it boasts a large industrial park and survives through various forms of economic development.

Water plays a huge part in Peabody's life, having numerous mills in the past, so it's no wonder that when the summer months arrive, many look to take a dip or swim to cool off.

While owning an inground pool can be prohibitively expensive for most, many look to a more practical alternative in above ground pools. And one of the largest and best pool providers in the area is Ambassador Pools, with its selection of quality pools, accessories, and more.

Why do families love Ambassador's above ground pools?

Well, for starters, they're much more affordable than inground pools. Even maintenance is a breeze. The above ground pools also offer a huge play area for kids and enormous patio decks make lounging by the pool a treat.

A privacy fence keeps roving eyes away, while a choice of decks keep things interesting. There are swing-up safety ladders to keep kids away from the pool unattended, and with the state-of-the-art pool structures, top quality liners, and fine filtration systems, the above ground pools of Ambassador Pools are truly some of the finest you can find.

So what's keeping you from owning an above ground pool? The benefits are sound, the comfort is supreme, safety is a non-issue, and it's tax-free.

To learn more about above ground pools, call Ambassador Pools today and find out how they can make your pool-owning dreams come true!

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

North Andover, MA Above Ground Pool Features

In Essex County, Massachusetts, a town called North Andover sits with a population of about 29,000. Just south of the Merrimack River, the town is considered a bedroom community of the greater Boston area.

As a bedroom community, locals look to relax in North Andover, leaving the stress of work back in their places of business. With summer fast approaching, the best way to relax and cool off is by dipping in a pool. But with the prohibitive costs of inground pools, above ground pools are the most popular alternative.

But what are its features?

Above ground pool features make swimming in it much more fun and safe. One of the most popular, that gives swimmers a sense of privacy as well, is the installation of pool decks. Available in different materials, you can customize your pool deck according to taste and function.

Ladders are also available to make entering and exiting above ground pools much easier. A quick glance at other features of above ground pools: it's safer for kids, mobile (can move with you), has a higher resale value, requires less maintenance, easier to set up, and so on.

The biggest features of above ground pools, and advantages over inground pools, are its costs. Aside from being more affordable, above ground pools are easier to maintain, thus costing less. Additionally, your insurance rates don't increase, you are not required to pay property taxes on it, and you won't have to spend more on underground plumbing and repairs due to water table problems.

Above ground pools are the future of home-swimming. This summer, don't let the heat get to you. Contact Ambassador Pools today to find the best pool for you and your family!

Monday, May 12, 2014

Benefits of an Above Ground Pool in Newburyport, MA

A coastal city in Essex County, Massachusetts, Newburyport lies just 35 miles northeast of Boston and has a population of about 17,500. Host to a vibrant tourism industry, the city's income is largely helped by the winter storage, mooring, and maintenance of various boats.

Given the city's life revolving around the water, it comes as no surprise that residents look to cool themselves off with a swim when the days get hot. But not everyone has the time to visit the coast everyday, so many choose to get their own above ground pool.

If you are on the fence about purchasing one, let us tell you about the benefits of having an above ground pool.

Above ground pools, first and foremost, are much more affordable than inground ones. Aside from the affordable installation price, above ground pools are also easy to maintain. Built with a double drain and pump, you won't have to purchase additional pool cleaning supplies.

The best news though, when it comes to the cost of maintaining a pool, is that above ground pools are tax-free. Unlike inground pools, owning an above ground pool doesn't require you to pay yearly taxes on it.

Above ground pools are also generally safer, since it is built on the ground (though you can also choose to install one in the ground), kids and pets are less likely to fall in. A fence is also available and guard rails with gates can be installed to ensure the safety of your kids. And if you are really concerned, you can install a sensor to detect intruders, as well.

These are but a few advantages of above ground pools, and there are surely more. If you are interested in knowing more, feel free to call the top pool providers in the area, Ambassador Pools, for more information.

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Preparing Your Above Ground Pool in Newbury, MA

A town in Essex County, Massachusetts, Newbury was incorporated in 1635. With a population of about 7,000, the town is primarily a residential town with a lot of beautiful architecture.

Lying south of the Merrimack River, locals have a special bond with water. As such, when summer comes, locals enjoy cooling off by swimming. However, not everyone has the time nor means to swim in the river everyday, so many look to have their own pool. But since owning an inground pool can be quite expensive, a lot are discovering the benefits of above ground pools.

If you are planning to get an above ground pool, you should have an idea how to prepare for its installation. It doesn't really take long to install one, taking only a day in most situations. However, there might be instances where installing one would take 3 to 5 days due to problems with stone, retaining walls, or the weather.

When it comes to installing the pool, you can try to do it yourself, though it's better to get professional help. Whichever route you take, the typical installation steps are as follows:

Preparation of the area, which includes compacting the dirt. Then, you assemble the frame. After which, you compact the bottom of where the pool will be, this will entail compacting sand and dirt. You then install the liner, then the filter system, and other equipment.

It sounds simple, and it is. However, if you don't have the patience, time, skills, or energy to do it yourself, you can always ask the professionals to do it.

While these are just the basics, if you have the budget and time, you can go ahead and have a deck built, put in a water-heater, level the ground, and even install some lighting around the pool.

Saving Money With Above Ground Pools in Methuen, MA

With a population of about 48,000, Methuen in Essex County, Massachusetts is a city that was once part of Haverhill until it was officially incorporated in 1726. Today, the city is known for Forest Lake, Methuen Memorial Music Hall, Saint Basil's Seminary, and the Methuen Rail Trail.

As warm days come, many residents look to cool off, and one of the best ways to do so is by taking a dip in a pool. While inground pools can be expensive to install and maintain, many choose the more practical, more affordable alternative –above ground pools.

How does one save money on above ground pools anyway? First off, installing one won't break the bank. You don't have to dig ditches, or have your backyard landscaped for a pool. As long as you have the space, you can set up your pool and start swimming right away!

While installing an above ground pool is more affordable than having an inground pool built, the biggest money saver is the maintenance. Above ground pools are built with a double drain and pump that cleans the water, which means you don't have to purchase additional pool cleaning accessories.

One of the constants in life that many don't feel particularly fond of are taxes. Inground pool owners feel this sting more than above ground pool owners because above ground pools aren't subject to yearly taxes. Even if you take your above ground pool, install it in the ground like an inground pool, you still won't pay taxes for it. Think of it as a tax-free inground pool.

If you are looking for something to help you cool off in the hottest of days, consider an above ground pool. It offers the same comforts as inground pools do, but they are more affordable and practical.

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Cooling Your Above Ground Pool in Merrimac, MA

A town in Essex County, Massachusetts, Merrimac lies on the border of New Hampshire and is just 34 miles northeast of Boston. With a population of about 6,500, Merrimac was once a manufacturing center, though it is now a residential community.

Positioned along the North Bank of the Merrimack River, it comes as no surprise that many residents have a love for the water. Cooling off and taking a dip to relax comes naturally. However, not everyone can go to the river daily to wash their stress away, which makes owning an above ground pool very enticing.

For those who already have a pool, no doubt you immediately take a dip when the days get warmer, but what about the days when the sun is so harsh, even the water is too hot? Here are tips to bring your pool water back down to a refreshing temperature.

You can cool your pool by a few degrees just by circulating the water during the night. Those with a fountain can run it at night, or you can have misting bars installed to help evaporation and cooling your pool. However, this can also result in water loss, so be sure to add water to your pool regularly.

Another way is to install a mechanical evaporative cooler. This is installed in your pool's plumbing between the pump and filter, and the salt chlorine generator. Fans are used to cool swimming pool water while it travels to the cooling system. This option can cool your pool up to about 10 degrees F. However, be sure to add water often as this also enhances evaporation. A mechanical evaporative cooler is also susceptible to corrosion, so be sure to keep an eye on it.

Another option is to install a reverse-cycle pool heat pump. The advantage of this is that you can heat or cool your pool, depending on what the weather is like. It's more affordable than gas heaters, and is corrosion-resistant. However, the operating costs are higher than mechanical evaporative coolers.


Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Heating Your Marblehead, MA. Above Ground Pool

A coastal town in Essex County, Massachusetts, Marblehead has its roots in commercial fishing and yachting. Known as the birthplace of the American Navy, Marine Corps Aviation, and is one of the more popular yachting sites in the country, you can tell that water plays a huge part in the lives of the town's residents.

Naturally, many love to go swimming to cool off or just to relax. However, not everyone can visit the seaside everyday to unwind, which makes above ground pools a popular thing to have. While swimming while the weather is hot is one thing, what if you plan to swim when the weather is a bit nippy?

Heating your above ground pool takes into account several variables, such as the usage, location, and the size of the pool to determine whether your pool will be alright with a heat pump or gas heater.

To decide, try to first determine your usage rate. Will the pool be used everyday? Or just during the weekends? If you plan to use the pool everyday, a heat pump makes more sense. Though more expensive initially, it is more economical in the long run.

If you plan to use the pool sparingl,y only during weekends or on special occasions, you'd be best served by a gas-heater since it can produce heat on-demand. Gas heaters have a higher operating cost, though.

The location of your pool also plays a part in your decision. A heat pump will work better in higher air temperatures while a gas heater is more useful in lower air temperatures. An above ground pool in a warm temperature climate can stretch the heat from a heat pump for weeks, or even months.

Finally, you need to take into account the size of the pool. The larger the pool, the more heat you'll require. By determining the BTUs (British Thermal Unit) of your pool, you can figure out what size heater you should use. An underpowered heater will cost more in the long run than one that is suited for the size of your pool, so be sure not to under-size your unit.

Above ground pools are not only useful for warm, summer days, you can still have your exercise even in cooler days with the right heater. Whether you go with a heat pump or a gas-heater, be sure to take into account the variables listed above to make an informed decision.

Monday, May 5, 2014

Above Ground Pool Advantages in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA

Manchester-by-the-Sea, or called simply Manchester, is a town in Essex county, Massachusetts with a population of about 5,200. Once called Jeffrey's Creek, it was called Manchester-by-the-Sea by locals after following the lead of railroad conductors in the mid-1800's.

As the name of the town implies, Manchester lies by the sea and many residents have an affinity for water, living so close to it. However, when looking to relax by taking a swim, not all residents have the time to go to the sea just for a dip. This makes the prospect of owning a pool all the more inviting.

But which pool should you get? While inground pools are normally the go-to choice, many are looking for more affordable alternatives. One such alternative is the above ground pool.

Rising in popularity, above ground pools offer certain advantages and benefits over their inground competition. What are these advantages? Here are a few:

For starters, above ground pools are more affordable – both to install and to maintain. What's more, it's tax-free, unlike inground pools where you have to pay yearly taxes.

Another advantage, if ever there comes a time you need to pack up and move, you can take your above ground pool with you. Inground pools tend to stay where they are. Above ground pools? Not so.

As for safety, above ground pools can be one of the safest, especially if you install a gate, cover, and even a sensor to tell you if small kids or pets are near the pool.

When it comes to aesthetics, above ground pools can be as beautiful as you want them to be. While the same can be said for inground pools, what if you decide to change the way it looks? An inground pool owner would find it difficult to change the pool's appearance, but with an above ground pool, you can easily change decks whenever you want. 

If you are looking for an efficient, practical, and more affordable option other than expensive inground pools, look no further than above ground pools.

Friday, May 2, 2014

Above Ground Pool Care in Lynnfield, MA

A town in Essex County, Massachusetts, Lynnfield is home to an agricultural population and has a mixed culture. With a population of about 12,000, the town was once made up of two separate villages, merging to become one of the most prosperous suburbs in the area.   

When the summer months come in, many Lynnfield residents who want to relax and cool off, look to above ground swimming pools. Why? They’re much more practical, affordable, and efficient than inground pools.   

While maintenance requirements for above ground pools are less than inground ones, to prolong the life of your above ground pool, one should still practice due diligence in taking care of it properly.   

An above ground pool usually has a life span of about 15 years, though it's not uncommon to hear of owners prolonging theirs for more than 20 years. The secret is proper maintenance.   

Always check your pool liner, the pool filter, and the pool structure itself. If there's a leak, fix it. If there are signs of rust, replace it, and basically, if something does not seem right, try to make it right.   

An above ground pool can give you years of enjoyment if given the proper care and attention. While its lifespan may not seem long enough for some, it can be made to last indefinitely if you replace what needs to be replaced, and fix what needs to be fixed. Just like a car, make sure everything about the pool inside and out works as it should.  

Thursday, May 1, 2014

Above Ground Pool Deck Design – Lawrence, MA

A city in Essex County, Massachusetts, Lawrence is located on the Merrimack River with a population of about 77,000. A manufacturing city, some of its products include electronic equipment, textiles, footwear, paper products, computers, and foodstuff.   

After a long day of work, many Lawrence residents yearn for the cool embrace of water to de-stress. Some take to the river to cool off, but most won't be able to. This is why many choose to get their own above ground pool so they can relax by taking a dip anytime.   

Many think of above ground pools as just that – above ground. Thus, a lot feel the aesthetic value of these pools aren't as refined as inground pools. This is a myth. Above ground pools can be made to look just as, if not more, beautiful than inground ones.   

What makes above ground pools more presentable are its decks, which can be built in any shape or size. There are three basic deck categories one can choose from: full-surround, side deck, or a hybrid of both.   

A full-surround deck is one of the more popular designs and is often built in an oval or circular shape. The design allows people to approach the pool from any direction, and makes cleaning it easier. 

Another popular design is side decking. This is built against the side of the pool but doesn't go around it like full-surround decks. Usually, the shape of these is rectangular or crescent shaped. It can be built to accommodate just a ladder, or large enough to have lounge chairs and a picnic area in it.   

Finally, there is the hybrid. A combination of the two above, this design offers pool owners the best of both worlds. Completely hiding the pool walls, you can approach the pool from anywhere, and have space for lounge chairs and other activities, as well.

From these three basic shapes, you can go wild with your imagination and design the pool deck that suits you. Materials can range from wood to stone and everything in between, so creativity is the only thing that limits you.   

Whoever says above ground pools aren't as pretty as inground ones, obviously hasn't seen an above ground pool owner with enough imagination.