Indoor Pools 101

An indoor pool provides a very different swimming experience for homeowners. If you’ve purchased a home with an indoor swimming pool, or are thinking of constructing a pool within your home, it is time to do some research. Operating and installing an indoor pool is very different from an outdoor pool.

Learning a bit about indoor swimming pools can help you to avoid some common mistakes and make sure your pool functions perfectly every day of the year.

Are indoor pools more expensive to install than outdoor pools?

Installing an indoor pool is much more expensive than installing an outdoor pool. Because an indoor pool becomes a part of the structure of your home, the installation process is more involved. The cost of adding a dehumidifier system, a vapour barrier, and all of the plumbing and electrical work means an indoor pool can cost a lot more than an outdoor pool.

But, depending on where you live, this expense can be worthwhile. An indoor pool is available for use every day of the year, while an outdoor pool is closed for the summer season. Many people find the investment worthwhile to have access to a pool every day.

Do indoor pools require different chemicals?

Indoor swimming pools require all of the same treatments that an outdoor pool does. But, because indoor pools are not directly exposed to the sun. With limited sun exposure, chemicals like chlorine will not evaporate as quickly.

Because there is less sun exposure, you’ll need to use smaller amounts of chemicals for your indoor pool. You’ll need to regularly test and balance your indoor swimming pool to be sure all of your chemical levels are ideal.

Do indoor pools require different maintenance than outdoor pools?

Indoor swimming pools require the same maintenance as outdoor pools. Indoor pools contain hair, dust, and dirt that is carried in by swimmers. But, with an indoor pool, you don’t need to worry about the wind or outdoor dirt, debris, and pathogens. Because an indoor pool is less exposed, you’ll be able to vacuum less often and backwash your filter less often. than you would with an outdoor pool.

Do indoor pools require special equipment?

Indoor pools require a lot of the same equipment that outdoor pools do. But, indoor pools also require the installation of a ventilation system. An indoor ventilation system prevents a buildup of chemicals and moisture. This will prevent the scent of your pool from seeping into your home, and keep moisture from damaging your foundation.

What are some of the advantages of an indoor pool?

An indoor pool is an incredible investment for anyone who will make use of it. An indoor pool offers a fun and relaxing place in your home to spend quality time and get exercise every day of the year. With a controlled indoor climate, maintenance on an indoor pool is fairly regular and easy to do. For anyone who loves to swim for exercise, a home pool is a wonderful place to do laps. Plus, an indoor pool is the perfect home centrepiece for anyone who loves to entertain and throw parties.

What are some of the disadvantages of an indoor pool?

Indoor pools can be very expensive to install, especially when compared with the costs of an outdoor pool. An indoor pool can also be very expensive to operate. While you save some money on your chemical use, heating and energy costs can be very high (and run year-round).

An indoor pool also takes a lot of time to maintain. While it can be nice to have the pool open and available every day of the year, that also means you’ll have to maintain your pool year-round. It can also be difficult to find local pool professionals who are familiar with the unique operation and maintenance of an indoor pool.

Do you need to heat an indoor pool?

An unheated pool can be a bit too chilly to enjoy, even if it is indoors. Most people will an indoor pool will choose to add a heater. Indoor pools are usually heated with a traditional pool heater, powered by gas or propane.

Beyond heating the water for your indoor pool, you’ll also need to consider the cost of heating the air around your pool. Most people who operate an indoor pool notice increased costs associated with heating their pool area, along with their pool water. The cost of heating an indoor pool is usually higher than the cost of heating an outdoor pool.

Can an indoor pool cause damage to my house?

An indoor pool that is correctly installed and maintained will not damage your home. Construction of an indoor pool should include a vapor barrier so moisture does not damage your home’s foundation. As long as your plumbing, equipment, and pool are kept in good shape, your home will be safe from moisture damage.

What types of swimming pools can you build indoors?

You can choose between fiberglass, concrete, or a vinyl liner for your indoor pool. The type of indoor pool that you choose to install will depend on your budget, design, and sizing needs.

Anyone who is hoping to create a large and very customized indoor pool will want to choose concrete. Indoor concrete pools allow for a lot of design freedom, but do come with a higher lifetime cost and more maintenance. Indoor fiberglass pools can be installed quickly and relatively inexpensively but are only suitable for smaller indoor pools. Vinyl lined pools allow for more customizable shapes and sizes, but have a higher lifetime cost, and can be more prone to damage.

Can you build an indoor pool in an existing home?

If you dream of living in a home with an indoor pool, it is ideal to choose a home with an existing pool or to build a home with a pool designed into the structure. But, if you have the money, space, and correct permits, you can add an indoor pool to your home. Adding an indoor pool to a home can be very expensive. But, an indoor pool can turn a house into a dream home.

Indoor swimming pools vs. outdoor swimming pools

Installing and maintaining an indoor pool is very different from the way you approach an outdoor pool. Different expenses, chemicals, and considerations all come into play. If you are thinking of creating your own indoor pool or purchasing a home that comes with an indoor pool, make sure to do your research. Knowing a bit about how indoor pools differ from a traditional outdoor pool can help you to make a better decision in the long run.

With long, harsh winters in Canada, an indoor pool can be the perfect place to exercise, have fun with family, and fight off the winter blues.

Mistakes to Avoid when Maintaining your Hot Tub

Having your own hot tub is an amazing experience. The ability to jump in and soak away stress is a luxurious way to end any day. The key to enjoying a home hot tub is ensuring that it is well-maintained and ready to use at all times. If you are maintaining your own spa for the first time, there are some things you’ll need to learn to do and avoid. We’ve put together a list of common mistakes that new owners make with their hot tubs. By learning about proper maintenance, you can avoid making an expensive and frustrating mistake that prevents you from using your spa.

Continue reading Mistakes to Avoid when Maintaining your Hot Tub

The Frugal Pool Owner: Cost Saving Dos and Don’ts for Your Pool

Operating a swimming pool each summer can be very expensive. Maintenance, chemicals, repairs, and energy costs all add up quickly. But, the cost of running a swimming pool is not fixed, and there are many ways that you can save money while enjoying the pool each summer.

It is never a good idea to compromise on what you need to keep your pool safe and clean. But, we’ve put together a list of practical tips you can use to save some money next summer (and, over the life of operating your pool).

Continue reading The Frugal Pool Owner: Cost Saving Dos and Don’ts for Your Pool

Is an automatic pool cleaner worth the investment?

If you’re a pool owner, you’ve probably fantasized about a time when the pool would just take care of itself. Keeping a pool clean and sparkling every day of the summer takes a lot of work, and can cut into the time that you actually get to spend enjoying the water.

Continue reading Is an automatic pool cleaner worth the investment?