Should You Go For a Saltwater Swimming Pool?

For years you have longed to walk into your backyard and relax in your very own swimming pool. Maybe you've saved up your money and obtained the appropriate permits to finally have one installed. If so, congratulations! You're certain to enjoy a dip in the warm weather whenever you wish. You may not realize, though, that you now have a choice in the type of pool water you want to use. Salt water swimming pools are becoming more common among homeowners, and you may wish to know the benefits of owning one.

When you discuss with a pool supply expert the possibilities of having a salt water pool installed at your home or other property, you will hear the pros and cons regarding maintenance and other issues. Regarding the benefits to owning a pool with salt water instead of chlorine, consider these points:

1) Some will argue that salt, as opposed to chlorine, is more natural and therefore better. The water is softer on your skin, and you're less likely to experience problems with your hair, if you swim without a cap.

2) Salt systems for the pool are designed to clean themselves, so there may be less work for you to do as far as maintenance.

3) Having a salt water pool eliminates the need for certain equipment that would accompany a chlorine system.

4) Because salt produces chlorine (salt, after all is actually sodium chloride) you don't have to concern yourself with adding more chlorine in the pool to keep the water clean.

For many, the question of salt over chlorine ultimately comes down to price. Proponents of salt pools will argue that while the initial payout for installation could hurt your wallet, in the long run you stand to save money that might otherwise be spent on more chlorine.

As there are pros, there are also challenges to bear in mind if you consider a salt system. Some complaints by salt water pool owners have included:

1) Insect attraction. Some pool owners have noted an increase in bees and other winged pests circling their pools. You may need to consider a bug zapper if you see this happen.

2) When water splashes over the edge your pool the salt goes with it. Therefore, you'll want to be diligent in keeping the area surrounding your pool clean.

3) Less actual maintenance involved may lead you to become lax in checking equipment in the event something does need fixing. Always keep an eye on your pool system, no matter what you use.

Once you decide whether to go with salt or a chlorine system, consult a local pool expert to get you started, so you can spend your days in the water rather than worrying about it.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Norfolk pool supplies and Virginia Beach pools.

Plumbing Questions Answered - What Are the Advantages of a Low-Flush Toilet?

It just may be the most important seat in your house. When everybody gets up in the morning, it's the first place we go, and the last at night. Call it what you will - the john, the head, the loo, the porcelain throne - the toilet is an integral part of your home, and as such it must work properly. Those of you who have become eco-minded and seek to take measures to "green" your home may have looked into environmentally friendly plumbing options. A low-flush toilet is such an item, but you really have to ask yourself...is it worth it?

Let's face it, if you have a large household, the bathroom is used quite often. When you consider how small children need to adjust to proper bathroom procedure - that is, not stuffing the bowl with toilet paper so you don't see water anymore - a low-flush model may not be the best thing right now. Nonetheless, there are advantages to having one, so bear these factors in mind as you look for ways to green your living space.

1) Low-flush toilets help conserve water. Enough water is wasted in the bathroom as it is, between teeth brushing and running the shower to get warm. You want to save where you can, and a low-flusher is designed not to use more than a gallon or two per use.

2) These types of commodes are also smaller in size. Because they do not use as much water, the tank isn't as large as a standard toilet's. If you have space concerns in a small bathroom, this can be considered an advantage.

3) Cost effectiveness is another factor in the bathroom fixture market. A low-flusher can save you money in the long run, and as they become more popular in households they may be more affordable than other models.

4) Depending on where you live, you may be subject to water conservation laws. These are the rulings that limit when you can water your lawn and do other things. Having a low-flush throne can help keep you a law-abiding citizen.

5) Though the toilets conserve, they are known to last. Provided you keep it in place, the wax seals could last as long as 30 years.

For an eco-friendly environment at home, start with the rooms used most often. Replacing your water-heavy toilet with a low-flushing alternative is one way to save money and the planet at the same time.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Chicago plumbing services and Virginia Beach plumbing.