Monday, June 30, 2014

Dealing With The Chlorine Smell of Your Above Ground Pool in Newfield, ME

Newfield is a town in York County, Maine. Known for being the home of the Willowbrook Museum Village, Newfield has a population of about 1,500 and is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford metropolitan statistical area.

Summers in Newfield can be uncomfortably hot, and swimming is one of the more popular ways to cool off. However, not everyone has the time nor means to visit the local local swimming hole, so many opt instead to have one in their own backyard in the form of an above ground pool.

One of the things above ground pool owners have to deal with though is the chlorine smell. While not really that offensive, it can still cause others to become uncomfortable. So, how do you deal with it?

While some might think that the smell of chlorine means that the pool is properly disinfected, strangely enough, if you smell the chlorine it means that the pool hasn’t got enough of it. The smell actually comes from chloramines, which are formed when there is not enough levels of free chlorine to react with ammonia and nitrogen-containing compounds.

To make sure this is the case, you can measure the level of free and total chlorine using the following formula:

Combined chlorine = total chlorine - free chlorine

When there is very little or no free available chlorine, you can deal with this with a chlorine shock treatment or the use of a pool water sanitizer.

To find out more above combined chlorine and how to deal with it properly, call Ambassador Pools. while being one of the leading above ground pool providers in the area, Ambassador Pools can help you with all your pool related issues.

Friday, June 27, 2014

Scale Deposits in Your Above Ground Pool in Wells, ME

A popular summer destination for tourists, Wells in York County, Maine is also the third-oldest town in the state. With a population of nearly 10,000, the town is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford metropolitan statistical area and has a total area of 73.61 square miles.

While Wells Beach is a popular spot during the summer, there are some residents who want a place all for themselves to cool off in. Which is why above ground pools in the area have become quite popular. More affordable, more practical, and definitely more easy to maintain than inground pools, many residents in and around Wells are intrigued with the prospect of owning one, if they don’t already.

For those who own one, have you ever wondered why sometimes there are white, gray, or brownish chalky deposits on your pool’s walls and fixtures? These are called scale deposits and they happen regularly.

Scale deposits are the precipitates that form due to unbalanced water. Whether its a high pH, high TA, calcium hardness, or a combination of the three, scale deposits happen. While the pH, calcium hardness, and TA are easily controlled and stabilized by a few treatments, when left for a little while, scale deposits can occur.

Fortunately, these are easily taken care of with a simple call to Ambassador Pools. A pool expert can come in to do a full analysis, and based on his or her findings, you will need to balance your water to ensure the scale deposits are controlled.

So if you are experiencing scale deposits in your pool, call Ambassador Pools today. Ambassador Pools aren’t just purveyors of quality above ground pools, but they can help you with your existing one as well. 

 

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Dealing With Colored Water in Your Limington, ME Above Ground Pool

A town in York County, Maine, Limington is a popular tourist destination with historic architecture. Part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine metropolitan statistical area, Limington has a population of about 3,800 with an area of 43.29 square miles.

A few hours drive away form the sea, many residents in Limington often visit the sea to cool off when the weather gets hot. But since not everyone has the time to spare to go to the beach, many residents instead opt to get their own above ground pool.

While above ground pools are easier to maintain than inground pools – and more affordable – the fact remains that maintenance is still required. But despite your maintenance, sometimes the water still changes color. So how do you deal with colored water in your above ground pool?

There are two causes for colored water in a pool: dissolved metals or a high organic content. If you have colored water, you can do the following to make it crystal clear again:

1. Bring a sample of the pool water to Ambassador Pools to have it analyzed
2. If the results show dissolved metals, you can add a sequestering agent or metal control to the pool. Be sure to follow the dealer’s instructions.
3. If the analysis yields high organic content, you can shock treat your pool with the proper chemicals. Ask your dealer which chemicals to use and again, follow their instructions.

Simple as that, you can turn your colored water pool back to its crystal clear glory. BE sure to ask Ambassador Pools for advice if you are not sure about the treatment.

After treatment, make sure the free chlorine level drops down to 1 to 4 ppm before you enter the pool.

For more information about proper above ground pool maintenance, feel free to call Ambassador Pools. Whatever your above ground pool needs are, you can trust Ambassador Pools to help you out.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Can You Overstabilize Above Ground Pools? – Limerick, ME

Part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine metropolitan statistical area, Limerick in York County, Maine has a population of about 3,000 and was named after Limerick in Ireland.

Limerick is set among hills and lakes, and many residents who feel hot, especially during summer, have no qualms taking a dip to cool off. However, not everyone has easy access to a swimming hole, so many have invested on an above ground pool instead.

Above ground pools are a more affordable, more practical, and easier to maintain alternative to inground pools. Both serving the same function, it’s no surprise why above ground pools are growing in popularity.

If you are an above ground pool owner, you’ve no doubt spent some time stabilizing your pool as part of your maintenance routine. However, is it possible to over stabilize it? The answer is yes.

When stabilized sanitizers and stabilized shock products are used too often, there will be a build-up of cyanuric acid which is the chief sign of over stabilization. This is a concern because an over stabilized pool will lessen the effectiveness of chlorine in killing germs, algae, and bacteria. While cyanauric acid in small levels protect chlorine from deteriorating under sunlight, too much will render the benefits of chlorine useless and can cause more problems. Recommended levels of cyanauric acid are from 40 to 60 ppm.

If you are concerned about pool stabilization, and need help in the proper maintenance of your pool, feel free to contact Ambassador Pools. The premiere provider of above ground pools in the area, Ambassador Pools can help you in all above ground pool related things, whether you are a prospective buyer or an experienced owner.

Don’t let your pool get over stabilized. Call Ambassador Pools for help today.

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Cloudy Water in Your Lebanon, ME Above Ground Pool

A town in York County, Maine, Lebanon is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine metropolitan statistical area and has a population of about 6,000.

Summers in Lebanon can be hot and perfect for swimming. Instead of taking the trip out to local swimming holes, many residents have their own above ground pools for easier access to the water. Why above ground pools? Aside from being more affordable than inground pools, above ground pools are more practical and easier to maintain, making them the smarter choice.

For those who own an above ground pool, keeping the water clean is important for your health and for the overall maintenance of the pool. So, what do you do if you have cloudy water?

While the causes for cloudy water are numerous, it is usually due to an incorrect pH, incorrect TA or improper filtration. After making sure the pH and TA are the right level, check your filtration system and adjust it accordingly.

Be sure that the filtration system runs smoothly and that it is turned on at least 8 to 12 hours a day. Also check if the filter needs to be backwashed. After backwashing, check if the filter pressure normalizes, if not, it might need to be cleaned chemically.

Be sure that the pump strainer baskets and skimmer baskets are emptied, and test your water's pH and alkalinity levels to see if they are in the ideal range. You can also shock the pool using the proper chemicals.

If you need help in acquiring the chemicals needed, call Ambassador Pools for help. Aside from providing the best above ground pools in the market, Ambassador Pools can also help in maintaining them.

Owning an above ground pool can be fun, and if maintained properly, it can give you years of service and comfort. For more information, call Ambassador Pools today.

Monday, June 23, 2014

Kittery Point, ME Above Ground Pool FAQ – Free Available Chlorine

A census-designated place in York County, Maine, Kittery Point is part of the town of Kittery and has a population of about 1,100. Located just beside the Atlantic Ocean, Kittery Point is also part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford, Maine metropolitan statistical area.

With its proximity to the ocean, it comes as no surprise that most Kittery Point residents have a love affair with the water. When the weather gets too hot, many would rather cool off by swimming than just sit in an air conditioned room. Because of this, many residents have their own above ground pool to cool off in anytime they want.

While significantly easier to maintain than inground pools, above ground pools still needs a degree of maintenance to keep them safe and healthy. One of the more frequently asked questions by above ground pool owners though is with regards to proper pool chlorination. Specifically, Free Available Chlorine or FAC.

First off, what is FAC? In a nutshell, it is the amount of active chlorinator in the water. What a chlorinator does is kill bacteria, control algae, and eliminate organic contaminants to achieve healthy pool water.

The correct amount of FAC in a pool should be in the 1.0 – 4.0 ppm range. If the level is below 1.0 ppm, algae problems, cloudy water, swimmer rashes, and bacteria problems can occur. To raise the ppm, chlorinator should be added or shock treatment done until the desired FAC level is achieved.

To ensure proper FAC levels, above ground pool owners should test the water at least twice a week during the summer season, though daily is best.

To find out more about FAC and above ground pool maintenance, feel free to contact Ambassador Pools and its pool experts. Whether you are an above ground pool owner, or planning to become one,  Ambassador Pools can help you with all your above ground pool needs.

Friday, June 20, 2014

Above Ground Pool Water Chemistry – Kittery, ME

A town in York County, Maine, Kittery is a tourist destination that’s known for its many outlet stores. With a population of around 9,500, the town is also home to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Kittery is also part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford metropolitan statistical area.

The town is built around a natural harbor, which makes many of its residents quite fond of the water. When the days get hot, swimming is the most popular way to cool off. While many residents have their own above ground pool, with many more planning to get one, pool owners should be aware of proper pool water chemistry.

When pool water is balanced, pool maintenance becomes easy.

Alkalinity must be tested once a month with the range being 125-150 ppm. Calcium hardness should be tested bi-monthly and should be in the range of 175-225 ppm. Finally, pH should be checked twice a week with a range of 7.2-7.6.

If the levels of the above are correct, the levels needed to fight bacteria are correct, corrosive build up will be prevented, and eye irritation won’t be as rampant too.

If the levels tested are too high or too low the accepted range, you can add the proper chemicals to bring it to the right levels. If pH is high or low, you can add a pH Minus or pH Plus product respectively. If calcium is low, you add a water hardener agent; but if it’s high, a sequestering agent it needed. For alkalinity, if the levels are too high, an Alkalinity Decreaser should be used, and if it’s too low, an Alkalinity Increaser should be added.

It’s all pretty straightforward, but if you need help with your above ground pool’s water balance, feel free to call Ambassador Pools – the best above ground pool provider in the area doesn’t just help you get your own pool, they can also help you maintain it.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

What Are TDS’s in Above Ground Pools? – Kennebunkport, ME

A town in York County, Maine with a population of about 3,500, Kennebunkport is part of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford metropolitan statistical area. It is known as one of the wealthiest communities in the state and has a reputation for being the summer haven for the rich.

While the town has been a seaside tourist spot for over a century, not everyone who lives in Kennebunkport has the means to visit the sea everyday. While this may not be a real problem, once the weather gets hot and the urge to cool off by taking a swim takes hold, it can be.

To deal with this, many residents get an above ground pool to ensure a swimming pool is easily accessible, anytime. Growing in popularity due to its advantages over inground pools, above ground pools have proven to be practical and efficient.

Of course, maintenance is still required, though not as much as with inground pools. Nevertheless, if you deal with the maintenance of above ground pools, no doubt you’ve come across the term ‘TDS.’ But what are TDS’s anyway?

TDS stands for total dissolved solids, and it is the measure of the overall dissolved material in a pool. TDS levels are caused by many factors, including the chemicals used to adjust the pH, water hardness, alkalinity, dust, and even human waste.

The maximum acceptable level TDS is any pool is about 1,500 ppm. When the level goes any higher, stains may begin to become noticeable in the pool. The effectiveness of the chemicals you add will be limited because of it, and the water will get cloudy.

Once TDS levels reach very high levels, there’s not much you can do. The best practical solution is to drain some or all the water depending on the TDS level and replace it with fresh water with low TDS.

To minimize the rise of TDS, a regular backwashing routine could help.

To learn more about handling TDS, and about above ground pools in general, call Ambassador Pools. The finest above ground pool provider in the area, all your questions regarding its maintenance, repair, and purchase will be addressed by its pool experts.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Energy Saving Tips For Your Above Ground Pool – Kennebunk, ME

A town in York County, Maine, Kennebunk is home to several beaches and has a population of nearly 11,000. First settled in 1621, it was incorporated as a town in 1820. Today, it is a thriving industrial community and is known for its 1,500 acres of nature trails and blueberry fields.

While Kennebunk has its own beaches, not all residents can head on down to one and cool off when the weather gets hot. This is why many have their own above ground pool. Owning one is much more practical and efficient compared to owning an inground pool, and to further save you money, here are some energy saving tips you might want to consider.

One of the best investments you can make is a pool cover. If you heat your pool, it can net you 50 to 70 percent energy savings. If not, it helps in keeping debris and leaves off it while minimizing pool water evaporation. A good pool cover can last several years, and they are usually made of plastic or aluminum.

If you have a heater, it is wise to invest in a timer. A heater in use can overheat in time, especially when water is not circulating through it, so be sure the pump is one when you turn on the heater. A timer can help ease operation as well as shut it down after a given time to cool down the system.

Still on pool heating, if you haven’t installed one yet, solar heating can be quite the money saver. While it may initially cost more than traditional gas, oil, or electric heaters, once installed, a solar heater provides virtually free heat.

There are several different kinds of solar heaters so be sure to research the best option for your pool first.

To learn more about saving energy with your above ground pool, call the pool experts at Ambassador Pools. Whether you need help with your existing pool, or are interested in getting one, Ambassador Pools can surely help.

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Heating Your Above Ground Pool in Hollis, ME

Part of the Maine metropolitan statistical area, Hollis is a town in Maine with a population of about 4,300. It is a rural bedroom community of Portland and was originally called Little Falls Plantation.

Summers in Hollis is a time for relaxation, and one of the best ways to relax under the summer sun is by swimming. Having your own above ground pool can let you swim anytime you want, and it is no surprise that a number of residents have their own for that purpose.

However, summer nights can get chilly at times, and sometimes above ground pool owners can’t maximize their investment if the water is freezing. What you need to enjoy your pool to the fullest is to heat it properly.

A properly heated pool can have you enjoying your pool for more hours, days of the year, and in some cases, even the whole year round. So let’s look at the facts of heating an above ground pool.

Most people find 78 degrees F as a comfortable temperature for swimming. While the sun can help heat the water, unless you live in a very warm climate, your above ground pool won’t exceed the temperature of the air. In these cases, a pool heater is needed.

Heating options are varied. You can choose to use gas, oil, electricity, or solar power. While there are pros and cons for each, it really depends on your location. To find the most efficient and practical way to heat your pool in your area, call the Ambassador Pool experts.

Aside from location, the size of your pool is important. It may seem tempting to save up and get the cheapest option, in the long run, a larger, more expensive heater can be more economical. Whatever the case may be, it is best to consult with a pool expert.

To learn more about heating your pool and above ground pools in general, call Ambassador Pools today. Anything you need to know about above ground pools, its maintenance, and what not, Ambassador Pools can help.

Monday, June 16, 2014

Why Choose an Above Ground Pool in Eliot, Maine?

Part of the Maine metropolitan statistical area, Eliot is a town in York County. It is home to Littlebrook Airpark and the Raitt Homestead Farm Museum. Eliot is located just northwest of I-95, near the border of New Hampshire, and has a population of about 6,300.

Maine has one of the most comfortable summer climates in the country, and to make it more comfortable, many residents spend their free days lounging in the water. While the beaches of Maine are popular destinations, not everyone can visit the beach any time they want, thus the prospect of owning their own pool is an attractive one.

If you are one of those planning to get a pool, you’ve no doubt wrestled with the choice between an inground pool or an above ground one. While inground pools are nice, above ground pools can be better. Here’s why:

Above ground pools are much more affordable. Given the high costs of installing and maintaining an inground pool, many pool owners have opted to go for above ground pools due to the lower costs they incur. Aside from saving you money, an above ground pool also saves your property from being permanently scarred, thus keeping its value.

As for maintenance, while above ground pools still require it regularly, the amount of time and effort you’d need to put into it is minimal compared to inground pools.

Easily set up and dismantled, if ever you decide to move homes in the near future, you can have your above ground pool taken down and reinstalled to wherever you are moving to next. What this means is, even if you move homes, you get to bring your pool investment with you. Something that even the finest inground pools can’t do.

If you are pressed for space, inground pools may not be an option, which makes above ground pools perfect. Available in various shapes and sizes, no matter how large or little a space you can manage, there is an above ground pool for you.

There are many more reasons why above ground pools are the better pool investment, and the above are but the tip of the iceberg. If you want to learn more about above ground pools, feel free to call Ambassador Pools for more information.

Friday, June 13, 2014

Sanitizing Your Above Ground Pool – Eliot, ME

With a population of about 6,200, Eliot is a town in York County, Maine. Part of the Maine metropolitan statistical area, it is home to Littlebrook Airpark and the Raitt Homestead Farm Museum.

Homeowners know how precious it is to have the time to relax. Especially when it’s the middle of summer, many would rather lounge in a pool. But not everyone can visit the local swimming hole, which makes above ground swimming pools a popular choice.

For those who plan to, or already, own an above ground pool, it is important to know how to keep it clean. After all, if you intend to spend a lot of time in your pool, won’t you like it to have clean water?

Pool cleaning is usually done through the use of antibacterial chemicals. These can be done through chlorine, baquacil, or other methods such as salt water generators. Whichever method is used, healthy levels must be maintained to ensure continued sanitization.

The most common method though, is through chlorination. Chlorine levels for proper sanitation is usually kept from 1.0 - 3.0 ppm. Chlorine can be added via tablets, sticks, granules, and floaters.

Using floats, these are used via the filtering system or you can add it directly as well. No matter what method you use, how you use it, the important thing is to keep the proper levels to make sure the pool stays clean and clear.

If you need help when it comes to sanitation, or if you want to learn more about above ground pools, call Ambassador Pools today. The finest above ground pool providers in the area, everything you wanted to know about above ground pools is just a call away.

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Adding Chlorine to Your Above Ground Pool in Cornish, ME

A town in York County, Maine, Cornish has a population of about 1,400 and is part of the Maine metropolitan statistical area. What started out as a trading post in 1665, Cornish has grown to a town that borders the towns of Hiram, Baldwin, Limington, Limerick, and Parsonsfield.

Like all the other towns and cities near it, Cornish tends to have hot and humid summers. On days like these, locals would much rather spend time in their own pool to cool off.

For those who already own a pool, you might have considered adding chlorine to it. If the alkalinity and pH levels of your pool are correct, you can add chlorine, though this depends on the present chlorine levels and the type used.

Why add chlorine? Because UV light degrades chlorine rapidly, and if your pool is lacking in it, you might consider adding more. Take note that because of the effects of UV light, chlorine should only be added in the late afternoon or early evening so that the sun won’t affect the mix.

Sufficient pool cleanliness can be attained by keeping chlorine levels at 1.0-3.0 ppm. However, if you find your pool having large quantities of chlorine, or if you notice a strong smell around the pool, you might need to shock treat the water.

Shock treating involves adding huge amounts of non-stabilized chlorine or non-chlorine oxidizers to the pool.

If you need more help regarding your above ground pool, feel free to call Ambassador Pools and consult with their experts. Above ground pools are a great investment, and whether you own one already or are just planning to get one, it’s recommended you consult with an expert from Ambassador Pools.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Why You’ll Love Owning an Above Ground Pool in Cape Neddick, ME

A census-designated place (CDP) in York County, Maine, Cape Neddick is part of the Maine Metropolitan statistical area with a population of about 2,600. Having two beaches on either side of the peninsula where it sits, Cape Neddick locals have a thing for swimming, especially when the weather gets hot.

While swimming in the beach is fun, sometimes you want to cool off without having sand in your bathing suit or salt in your eyes. While visiting public pools is an option, sometimes you just want to relax in the comforts of your own home.

That said, here are some reasons why you would love owning your very own above ground pool.

First off, above ground pools are much more affordable than inground pools. If you are dead set on owning a pool, no doubt you’ve been thinking about getting one or the other. While inground pools are the traditional choice, more and more are opting for above ground pools instead for its practicality, efficiency, and affordability.

Compared to inground pools, above ground pools are also easier to maintain. Having the pumps, filters, and heaters easily accessible is always a good thing. Additionally, since above ground pools can be dismantled and set up anytime, you can even bring it with you if ever you decide to move homes.

You’ll also love hoe above ground pools are highly customizable. Inground pools, once you’ve decided on its appearance, tend to look the same no matter what. But with above ground pools, you can add decks, patios, and what not anytime. If you grow tired of your current setup, you can have it replaced anytime to keep its appearance fresh.

While these are just a few reasons, there are a multitude more to love about owning an above ground pool. If you need more information, feel free to call Ambassador Pools and ask about their range of above ground pool models and how it can change your life.

Don’t let the heat get to you, relax and cool off in the comforts of your own home. Get an above ground pool. You’ll surely love it.

Controlling Algae in Your Cape Porpoise, ME Above Ground Pool

A small coastal village in Maine, Cape Porpoise was the original English settlement of the town of Kennebunkport and its deep natural harbor is protected by more than a dozen islands. The sea is part of the village’s history, and as such, many residents prefer to cool off during hot days by taking a swim.

But not everyone has the time nor inclination to cool off in salty water, which makes above ground pools a popular alternative. Besides being more affordable than inground pools, above ground pools are also more practical, efficient, and easier to maintain.

One of the more common problems of taking care of your above ground pool is algae. Tiny plants that thrive in water and can grow in a short time, algae forms when there is enough sunshine and food. To control it, the secret is in its environment.

The three kinds of algae found in pool water are:
  • Green Algae - dusty green in color, this type floats in the water and on the sides of the pool.
  • Yellow Algae - mustard in color, these appear as yellow powder deposits on the shady sides of a pool
  • Black Algae - can appear blue-green in color, this type appears as an inch sized spot on the surface of the pool
To prevent the growth of algae, proper chlorination levels must be maintained in your pool. However, once algae forms despite proper chlorination, normal chlorine level may not control it. To get rid of it, the water must be treated with 30 PPM of Free Chlorine to kill the algae and eliminate the organic waste that’s left behind. Make sure your pump, filter and chlorinator works properly, then run the pump for 24 hours non-stop. Sweep thoroughly afterwards, and ensure that no one uses the pool until the water is clear and chemical levels are back to normal.

If you have an algae problem that you can’t control, call Ambassador pools to find out how to properly deal with it, or ask them to send in a professional pool cleaner to help out.

Friday, June 6, 2014

5 Benefits of Above Ground Pools – Biddeford, ME

Biddeford is the sixth-largest city in Maine with a population of about 21,300. First settled by Europeans in 1616, it is one of the earliest European settlements in the country. Lying in the humid continental climate zone, you can expect winters to be cold, while summers are hot and humid.

Unsurprisingly, when summer hits, many Biddeford residents want to cool themselves off as often as possible. To achieve this, many look to having their own pool. The choice between getting an inground one or an above ground pool is a personal one, but nevertheless, here are 5 benefits of an above ground pool you might want to consider:

Cost
 
While inground pools can cost tens of thousands of dollars, above ground pools cost a much lower price.

Installation
 
Installing an inground pool can take a month or so. Compare that to above ground pools, which can take only a day or so to install, and you would understand why many prefer eliminating wait times by choosing above ground pools .

Space Management
 
Some inground pool sizes start at 17 feet in diameter. If you don’t have space for that, then above ground pools are your only option since they come in various shapes and sizes. You can easily choose an above ground pool that fits your allocated space accordingly.

Moving?
 
If you plan to transfer your inground pool from your old home to a new one, it would involve tearing things down that would affect the entire property's value. But with above ground pools, all it takes is dismantling and having it reinstalled to wherever you plan to move to next.

Maintenance
 
Maintaining and cleaning above ground pools is easier than inground pools since you won’t have to deal with hidden parts. Above ground pools have easily accessible parts that would make maintenance a breeze.

To learn more about above ground pools, or if you plan on getting one soon, call Ambassador Pools today. One of the finest pool providers in the area, Ambassador Pools can help you with all your above ground pool needs anytime.

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Landscaping Around Your Berwick, ME Above Ground Pool

A town in York County, Maine, Berwick is located beside the Salmon Falls River. With a population of about 7,300, the town was once called Kittery Commons, then Unity. It was changed to Berwick in 1713.

Two rivers drain Berwick, Little River and Salmon Falls River, and as such, locals have a love affair of sorts with water. Being a central part of everyday life, when days become warm, it’s only natural that many cool off by taking a swim.

Today, many opt to have a pool of their own and above ground pools have proven to be a popular choice given their practicality, affordability, and overall efficiency. But sometimes, having a pool stick out in the middle of the yard can be an eyesore. It's a good thing landscaping around your above ground pool is not out of the question.

Landscaping around your pool is more than just an aesthetic decision though, and it can also serve a practical purpose by absorbing the water that splashes from the pool, preventing a muddy mess. Here’s how you can prepare the ground:

- Dig a soil barrier about 3 feet from the pool’s wall. Remove the rocks, grass, and weeds in this strip of soil.
- About 2 inches from the pool wall, dig a slit trench about 18 inches deep. Take a sheet of metal root barrier and hammer it into the slit. This is to prevent plant roots from growing under the pool.
- You can then plant bushes around the pool. It’s best to choose perennial plants and those that don’t drop leaves or flowers to minimize debris.
- Use rocks to cover the ground on the edge of the soil barrier to prevent weeds and grass from growing back. This will also allow splashed water to drain to the bushes and plants you’ve planted.

Remember, leave the area around the ladder of your pool free. You can use stones to create a walkway to the ladder though, to add a dash of class.

To learn more about above ground pools, and how to decorate and customize them according to your tastes, call Ambassador Pools today. They can help you with everything you need about above ground pools and give valuable tips and advice.

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Caring for Your Buxton, ME Above Ground Pool

A town in York County, Maine, Buxton includes several villages with a total population of about 8,000. Drained by Little River and the Saco River, plus having the 211-acre Bonny Eagle Pond in the northern part of town, water plays a huge role in the lives of the locals.

It's a small wonder then why many Buxton residents prefer to cool off during hot days by taking a dip. However, not everyone can visit the nearest swimming hole everyday, which makes the prospect of owning a pool all the more attractive.

Inground pools can be expensive and take time to install; above ground pools, on the other hand, are more affordable and take only a day or so of setting up before you can use them. Affordable, customizable, and practical, it's no surprise why above ground pools are quickly becoming the popular choice for many would-be swimming pool owners.

For those who already own one though, the importance of proper maintenance cannot be overstated. It can seem daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, looking out for your above ground pool is relatively easy. If you need help though, you can always call Ambassador Pools to send a pool professional to help you out.

Nevertheless, here is a basic checklist for you to refer to:

- Check pH balance
- Sanitization
- Algae
- Cleaning the pool water
- Adding the chlorine
- Winterizing your pool
- Routine pool care and upkeep

If you are not familiar with some or all of the terms above, you might want to get educated on them through Ambassador Pools. While they can help you by sending a professional over, the ultimate goal is to learn enough from them so you can start maintaining your pool on your own. It not only saves you money, it gives you a real sense of ownership and pride.

Learn more about above ground pool maintenance and upkeep today, call Ambassador Pools and don't be shy to ask for help.

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Need an Above Ground Pool in Alfred, Maine?

A town in York County, Maine, Alfred is known as the home of part of the Massabesic Experimental Forest. The town is drained by the Mousam River, Littlefield River, Hay Brook, and Trafton Brook. With all the rivers and brooks in it, it's not hard to guess that the town's residents have a love for the water.

When the heat gets unbearable, or when the stress just gnaws away, locals would rather cool off and relax by taking a dip. But not everyone can visit the nearest swimming hole anytime they like, which makes owning an above ground pool all the more attractive.

Above ground pools are gaining in popularity these days and it's not hard to see why. More affordable, practical, easier to maintain, and customizable, above ground pools offer the same as inground pools, but with more benefits.

Consider this, above ground pools cost less to install and even less to maintain than inground pools. What's more, being tax-free, you don't have to pay yearly taxes on above ground pools. The overall costs alone favor above ground pools over inground ones.

Though more affordable, purchasing an above ground pool is still a major investment, so having the ability to take it with you anywhere you go is an added plus and makes your investment more worthwhile. For example, if you move homes, you can easily have your pool dismantled and reinstalled at your new home. Try doing that with an inground pool.

While many might say that above ground pools are less attractive than inground ones, it's obvious that they haven't seen the better ones. Fully customizable, you can design your above ground pool according to whatever you have in mind. Even if you have a deck built, and want to change its design, you can easily do so.

There are literally hundreds of reasons why above ground pools make for a good investment, and if you want to know more, feel free to call Ambassador Pools today.

If it's a pool you want, you can't do better than an above ground pool.

Monday, June 2, 2014

Above Ground Pool Placement Tips in Acton, Maine

Acton, Maine – a suburban town in Middlesex County, it lies 21 miles west-northwest of Boston and has a population of about 22,000. One of the wealthiest towns in the country, Acton has a rich and full history that dates back to the time of the first Indians 7,000 years ago.

With two primary stream systems, water plays a huge part in the lives of Acton's residents, which makes it natural for locals to seek out water when they want to cool off.

One of the more popular pool choices these days are above ground pools, and it's easy to see why since above ground pools are more practical, more affordable, and highly customizable.

If you plan on getting one, or already bought one but haven't decided where to place it yet, here are some things to consider regarding pool placement.

Sunny areas - keep your pool warm and minimize the amount of leaves and debris that can clutter your pool.

Wind breaks - wind can hasten evaporation, so consider the placement of trees, fences and other wind breakers to lower heat loss in your pool.

Entryway - be aware of your pool's accessibility, and take into account the patios, walkways and deck you may want to add.

Equipment shed - many opt to build a small shed where their pool equipment can be placed. Aside from protecting the equipment, it can also be made to become an attractive addition to your landscaping. Also, it's better to have the shed close to the pool rather than far away.

There are other factors to consider, of course, but these are the basics that you may want to think about when deciding where to place your pool.

If you need more information about above ground pools, or need help regarding its placement, feel free to call Ambassador Pools today!