1 – You’re going to obviously want to start by removing the cover from your pool. Untie and remove any weights that you had anchoring the cover and try to find as many people as possible to help you remove the cover to keep as much debris out of the pool as possible. Since covers get dirty being out all winter, spray down your cover with a hose and let it dry in the sun before storing

2 – Before you add any chemicals, you will probably need to vacuum the swimming pool. Attach your vacuum hose, and, either set it to vacuum or vacuum to waste if you have a lot of dirt. (You may have to stop vacuuming once in a while to backwash and rinse). Once you have the pool cleaned, check your pH and chemical balance, and add the prescribed chemicals to the water. Turn the pump to filter and let it run constantly for at least 48 hours.

HOT TIP
If you have a solar cover, put it on immediately. Any warmth you can collect from the sun will give you a head start on heating the pool.

3 – Before you let anyone enjoy your above ground pool, take a good look at the deck and the liner. Make sure that the liner is secured around the top of the swimming pool. These sometimes come loose in spots during long periods of not being used, and should be reattached where needed.

4 – Check out the wooden deck. If your pool is older, you may find some soft spots under foot. Wood will rot eventually, and it may need shored up underneath, or, even eventually replaced with an aluminum or more stable deck from Kayak Midwest!

5 – Check out the stability of the railing around the pool deck. Make sure it’s stable, and all the boards are in place and solid. This could be the year that it’s time to put a new coat of sealer on the wood. Check the steps for any damage, and, make sure that the bolts that secure it to the deck are in place and solid.

Get the most out of your Kayak above ground pool by following these 5 steps in April to ensure that you will be ready to go when the heat wave hits in May. Enjoy!

So how much do you want to invest on your new pool? Your cost depends heavily on elements such as size, additions, hot tub, waterfall, screen enclosure, heater (gas, electric or solar) and deck design.

Cost is determined by much more than only the size and shape of the pool. In an effort to save money on installation, make sure you’re not compromising on workmanship, quality of materials, design, underground strength, ease of maintenance, warranty and service. This is what makes Kayak above ground swimming pools such a great investment! Kayak swimming pools are constructed of the finest materials on the market, require little-to-no maintenance and come with an amazing warranty and friendly customer service.

Financing solutions

Typically, pools are financed through long-term mortgage programs; most likely similar to the one you acquired to purchase your home. This allows you to spread out the payments over a longer amount of time, making your monthly payments for your swimming pool manageable. The key to successfully financing your pool is finding a lender who knows the ins and outs of the pool-building process such as Kayak Pools Midwest.

Here are some tips when shopping for pool financing:

• Some pool builders offer in-store financing, allowing them to easily tailor a manageable monthly payment for you. They can often get you approved in 24 hours or less. The builder can explain financing options, loan terms and current interest rates.
• A bank might handle one swimming pool loan a week, but pool builders who offer in-store financing do them all the time, so you can be assured that you’ll be speaking the same language.
• If you’re building a home, consider building your pool at the same time. This would be a great time to talk to your building contractor to learn more about the benefits of this opportunity.

With this year’s mild winter, spring has come early and so has your itch to be outside enjoying the sunshine and your local pool. There’s only one problem… Most local swimming pools don’t even open for summer business until after Memorial Day! There can be a long wait between when the weather hits 80 degrees and the local pool opens for the season. Don’t worry though; Kayak Pools Midwest has got you covered, now and for life.

Kayak Pools Midwest is having its annual Pre-Season sale on all of our above ground swimming pools! This means huge savings this spring from now until the first of May. Don’t wait until it’s a muggy 95 degrees outside and the local swimming pool hasn’t opened for the season yet. Besides opening late in the spring, public swimming pools can often be unsanitary and overcrowded during the summer months. Approximately 314 million people visit public swimming pools throughout the summer and it can be hard for local recreational pools to keep up with the demand and sanitation requirements.

But you can turn your backyard into a clean and quiet, private getaway before May 1^st and receive FREE INSTILLATION of your very own Kayak above ground pool. With the thaw of winter already melted away, ground and soil conditions are perfect this time of year to begin construction. Get on our instillation list so you won’t be stuck waiting through any heat waves this summer. In no time at all, you can be hosting pool parties and exercising daily in the comfort and privacy of your own back yard. This is a limited time offer on our above ground swimming pools, and we hope that you will contact us soon to get on your way to making a splash early this summer!

The main pump is the heart of the necessary filtration process for your swimming pool. If your pool pump fails your pool water will be stagnant and you will soon develop water chemistry problems. Our Kayak Three-Way Filtration systems feature a quiet, efficient pump that includes a large-capacity strainer with see-thru lid for easy monitoring.

Here are three problems that can occur with any swimming pool pump and how to check and prevent them happening to your filtration system.

1. Pump Not Turning On?

Whether you are operating your main pool pump with a time-clock, on/off switch, or simply with an electrical breaker for your above ground pool, you will notice the pump not working almost instantly. The first step when this occurs is to figure out whether or not the power was dropped. If the necessary volts are not making it to your swimming pool pump, you will want to trace the “power drop” back to its source. It’s no use taking apart the pump if you are simply dealing with a bad breaker.

Once you’ve determined whether or not the correct power is being delivered to the motor, you will want to examine the pump’s internals and confirm that the shaft is spinning without hindrance. This is easy to do with the see-thru lid of a Kayak pump. If the shaft of the motor seems to be spinning freely and you can hear a low whining when you switch the power on, it is most likely a bad capacitor. The capacitor stores energy inside and helps get the motor up to the correct RPM’s. Without a functional capacitor the motor will never turn on. Most capacitors run you under twenty dollars, so most pool guys will simply swap out the capacitor for you if the motor shaft is unrestricted.

2. Leaky Pump?

Pool plumbing and the Kayak Filtration System is designed to be a closed plumbing loop. No water should be leaking from anywhere in the plumbing cycle, especially the pool pump. Swimming pool pump designs use separately molded components that fit together using o-rings and gaskets. Typically swimming pool pump leaks are due to a rubber o-ring or paper gasket that has worn out over time. Replacing these gaskets is relatively simple and inexpensive.

Some pool pump leaks are not as obvious as this. If your pool pump has ever overheated make sure all plastic molded components have not warped or developed any hairline cracks. Any pool pump leak is typically an air leak as well when the pool pump is off. Air getting into the above ground pool’s plumbing loop will put extra strain on your pool pump and can cause the pump to continually loose its prime. It is important to always be monitoring your plumbing for leaks and wet spots.

3. Pump Not Pulling Water?

So you’ve determined your pool pump has no leaks and is electrically sound, but still you can’t seem to start circulating the pool water? Before turning on your swimming pool pump, make sure some of the obvious obstructions are not present. Confirm all of the valves are open correctly. To begin drawing in water you may want to isolate a particular line in the system. Make sure that your skimmer is free from all debris or obstructions. Once you have followed the designated plumbing line back to the pool you can turn on the pool pump and visually inspect to see if the pre-filled water has been sucked through the pump.

If water stays trapped in the housing of the pump you may be dealing with a clogged impeller issue. If you have confirmed there is no plumbing obstruction and suspect there may be an air leak somewhere in the plumbing you can force water through the plumbing using a portable pump to put pressure on the plumbing to locate any suction leak.

1. Plants/Flowers

Plants are an easy and affordable way to decorate around your above ground pool. Pools above ground leave plenty of space around the perimeter to use your imagination when landscaping. Because of the wide variety of plants, hedges, trees, shrubs, and vines available at any nursery, choosing your poolside environment can be a bit overwhelming at times. Before making your selection, take a drive around the neighborhood and look for plants that are appealing to you. Some plants can be pretty but are also messy and may drop leaves or flower petals, and that’s where you can run in to problems.

The Ti Plant or Crotons love lots of light and are colorful which make them excellent pool plants.

Here are some things to avoid when choosing your plants:

• Avoid overhanging branches which can drop debris into the pool.
• When planting trees, be aware of the root system, since growing roots can cause ground swell and disrupt the pool frame.
• Select plants and flowers which DO NOT attract bees or insects.
• Avoid plants which produce fruit or berries which could stain decks and walks.
• Be careful about plants which have thorns, stickers, or soapy substances.

2. Rocks

Natural stone is a common choice for all different types of landscaping. Not only is it durable, but it offers a classic look that is timeless. This will make your landscaping design appealing now and far into the future with little-to-no maintenance. Landscaping with rocks is one of the cheapest ways, and yet it holds up well to the elements. Small pebbles or large boulders lining the outside of your above ground pool can add wonderful accents and help to disguise posts and rails around your pool. Rock gardens are also a popular way to add beauty and serenity to the area surrounding your pool.

3. Fences and Lighting

As much fun as a swimming pool is, it can hold danger. Safety features and privacy are a major consideration when landscaping. A complete enclosure or fence, as well as good lighting are the most important of these. The good news is that these safety features can add to the beauty of your pool. When it comes to installing these things in and around your pool, you have a lot of options. Instead of a boring, plain fence, why not install something that is more visually appealing? Kayak offers rust proof, rot proof fencing that is built to stand the test of time and keep your little ones safe.

4. Decks

A pool addition doesn’t have to be expensive. An above ground pool, with a well-designed deck to supplement it, can look like a million dollars and create the perfect place for friends and family to hang out and barbeque all summer long! This decking can range in size anywhere from a complete perimeter treatment to a simple platform with a catwalk partway around it. Kayak manufactures and installs slip-resistant swimming pool decking that is constructed of interlocking panels of extruded aluminum — made to last a lifetime. The deck panels are electrostatically bonded with slip-resistant paint, then anchored into the pool wall structure and fence. The result is a virtually indestructible, safe surface that is available in any number of configurations. No rust. No maintenance. None of the hassle of wooden decking.

With the thaw of winter comes rain, the blossoming of flowers and sunshine. People emerge from their hibernation and look forward to warmth and the outdoors. Don’t be late this year to the party! Get your swimming pool ready for in time for summer so that when the warm weather hits, you’ll be ready to make a splash!

Here are some tips on how to “summer-ize” your swimming pool.

1. Turn everything on

Since your swimming pool equipment hasn’t run all winter, turn it on to see if anything is leaking or making funny noises. A good indicator is to look at the concrete pad under the pump of your above ground pool to see of it is getting wet. It’s cheaper and easier to repair leaks when they’re small than to ignore them for a while until they get out of control.

2. “Testing… 1,2”

Test the level of “total dissolved solids,” (TDS) such as calcium, in the water to determine whether you need to drain and refill your pool. Some water is so loaded with calcium and other minerals that can build up and prevent your pool chemicals from doing their job. In some cases, the TDS levels are so high that a pool needs draining and refilling with clean water that will respond to the chemicals in appropriate amounts. A pool service will charge about $125 for a thorough full-service inspection of your pool and equipment, including a TDS test.

3. Drain-o!

Above ground swimming pools usually need to be completely drained every three to five years, as TDS levels get too high. Hire a swimming pool professional service to place an oversize submersible pump on the bottom of the pool. Expect to pay around $150 depending on the company.

4. Salt is a Must (Margaritas are Optional)

If your swimming pool is salt-chlorinated, check salt levels and clean the cells regularly. This is especially important if the salt system stops producing when the weather gets colder (most systems stop automatically at about 52 degrees Fahrenheit).

5. Safety First

Check that your pool’s safety features are in good condition. Inspect the fence or wall that keeps children from wandering into the pool; the self-closing, self-latching gate; and the rescue and first-aid equipment near the pool. Update your list of emergency numbers.

6. “Shock” Value

When opening your pool for the summer, we recommend raising the chlorine level of your swimming pool above 5.0 to get started. You can do this yourself with oxidizer (called shock) from your swimming local pool dealer. Be sure to choose a product that’s compatible with the Kayak Three Way filtration system. It is beneficial to shock your above ground pool regularly during swim season; otherwise you can invest about $500 in an ozone generator, which will continue to automatically shock your pool.

7. “It’s Electric!”

To be safe, we highly recommend that you call a licensed electrician to install ground fault circuit interrupters on all outlets that power outdoor electrical equipment and to check that your pool’s wiring and installation are up to code every summer.

8. Inspect and Detect

Finally, inspect all handrails, diving boards, ladders and slides around and in your swimming pool. Tighten up or replace anything that has become loose or damaged over the winter months.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready for the summer months. Upkeep is important for your swimming pool and Kayak Pools make it easier than ever. Upkeep for most above ground swimming pools involves weekly skimming out debris, vacuuming, brushing the pools surface, emptying the skimmer and pump baskets, and chemically treating the water. But with the Kayak Three Way Filtration System, you will only need to vacuum 2-3 times per season!

Keeping the chemicals in check is one of the best things you can do for your pool, so be sure to check those levels regularly. Consult your swimming pool manual or contact the manufacturer for more tips and care instructions. Enjoy your summer!

Here are a few reminders for when you’re getting your pool ready for the changing of seasons:

Address the Plumbing

Obviously, when water gets cold, it freezes. When it freezes, it expands. If there is water left in your plumbing lines or skimmer, your pool can suffer severe damage. If you don’t want to lower the water level below the skimmer, make sure you purchase a skimmer closure or guard.

Make sure there isn’t any water in your plumbing lines. An easy way to do this is to use a shop vac to blow the water out of your plumbing lines. You can use a threaded or rubber plug to assure the water doesn’t refill the lines.

Winterizing Chemicals

Adding a winterizing kit will help keep your water nice and blue until next pool season. You can find these kits nearly anywhere that sells pool supplies. Most kits include algaecide and an intense chlorine-free shock formula that will reduce off-season bleaching.

Some kits will come with a solution to minimize stain on your walls and pool floor as well. Additionally, some kits will include a floater, others won’t. If you already have a floater, again, make sure you do not use a strong oxidizer that will ruin your pool wall.

While closing or winterizing your pool is a sad occasion, there are ways to do it that will help sustain the beauty and operation for next season!

For more information on properly maintaining and caring for your pool, whether it’s above ground or inground, check out our downloadable maintenance guides online.

In a word?  Buoyancy.

We all weigh approximately ninety percent less in water.  That ability to float—buoyancy—gives the body an opportunity to work in ways land-based exercises can’t.

Less Strain on the Body!
First of all, joints like ankles, knees, hips, and shoulders are relieved of carrying nearly ninety percent of our body weight—meaning less strain whether you are in optimal health, overweight, or recovering from an injury or surgical procedure.  Couple this with water’s natural resistance (its natural “push” against motion), and you have an environment that requires you to burn energy while putting less strain on your joints; no matter which way you move in water (swimming, walking, playing, aerobics, etc.).

Buoyancy also means less stress on the circulatory system.   Because the body is essentially weightless, it’s easier for the heart and lungs and circulatory system to move oxygen through the body, increasing the efficiency of exercise.  More oxygen to muscles means greater benefits, no matter what the exercise.

Resistance with Every Move
And finally, lets talk about that exercise.  Buoyancy allows for a full-body workout no matter what the activity, because there is resistance in every, and any, direction you move—resistance that is applied equally against your body, resistance that increases proportionately with more vigorous movement.  Think of  buoyancy as an exercise machine that adjusts automatically with the level of intensity of your motion within a swimming pool—a self-regulating exercise that doesn’t require you to switch weights, count repetitions or “think” in any way.

So if your thinking about exercise, consider using the natural buoyancy the body gets when immersed in the water of a swimming pool.  It’s easier on the joints, better for circulation and offers gradual, full-body resistance that’s great for muscle development and tone.

And don’t forget the benefit that millions of recreational swimmers already know:  Swimming is fun!

Things To Remember When Buying a Pool: A How To Guide

Like any investment that requires you to lay down hard-earned cash for an anticipated return, the decision to buy a pool is not one to be made impulsively.   A little extra effort now—before you commit to a purchase—can save you countless extra hours and dollars down the road.

Here’s a strong beginning checklist of reminders to execute before investing in your backyard vacation.

Check the code first: Before heading down the road to a swimming pool, be sure to check with your local building code enforcement office to determine what can (and sometimes cannot) be added to your property.  Each township, borough or county will likely have restrictions on proximity to property lines, utilities, safety or zoning restrictions, even mandatory green ordinances that could limit the size or style of your swimming pool.  Knowing what your locality allows will help you define limits for your new swimming pool.

Research is key and information is free: Whether it’s on a website, in a showroom, or via literature and videos provided by a swimming pool contractor or manufacturer, there’s never been more information available about swimming pools and swimming pool installation.  Take the time to familiarize yourself with the styles of pools available to you, the maintenance associated with those pools, and the general process of pool installation as well as the bottom line initial price of the swimming pool and installation.

Installations are customized: Above ground and in ground swimming pools are constructed on (or in) your property.  As such, the degree of expertise and experience of your swimming pool supplier and contractor is absolutely essential.  Be sure to check references by calling or visiting previous customers, and ask questions about your particular project.  It’s your investment—reputable pool contractors and pool suppliers understand that, and should take the time necessary to answer your questions.

Don’t sacrifice quality for price: There are a limited number of reputable pool manufacturers, yet a far greater number of contractors who claim to specialize in pool installation.  There’s no substitute for a quality product installed by an experienced professional—choosing the pool that’s priced right for you is only half the battle.  Oftentimes, manufacturers (like Kayak Pools Midwest) utilize contractors who specialize in the installation of their pool products, and make reference-checking and quality considerations easier on the homeowner.

Ask questions.  Then ask more questions: Any number of questions may apply to your unique situation.  What comes standard with my pool purchase?  What safety considerations should I make?  How much does yearly maintenance cost for the pools you recommend?  What’s the difference between an above ground and in ground pool?  How long will the project take?  Do you offer financing? What guarantees or warrantees do you offer?  Remember, the only truly bad question is the one that goes unspoken.

While this might seem like a lot of work, remember: the relatively short amount of time you invest now—in preparing to purchase a pool—is returned to you over and over again each time you dive into the perfect pool installed by a quality contractor or manufacturer.

We worked with a custom web solutions company on some of Kayak Pools Midwest marketing a while back, and so we expressed our desire to have a great swimming pools website full of valuable information, and easy to manage on our end.

They stepped up to the plate big time.

We run multiple marketing campaigns each year. Like right now, summer is winding down, and so we’re offering a huge end-of-season swimming pool sale. Smallbox built a content management system for us that allows us to update our own content, whenever we want, and easily integrates with our other marketing efforts. We took all of our web content off of the old system and plugged it all into this new CMS.

Life is so much easier now that we can focus on what we truly enjoy – serving our customers’ swimming pool needs! Now, whenever we need to make an update to our site, it takes a few minutes.

With Smallbox’s help, we were able to create a place online that features our beautiful swimming pools and customers through photos, video a blog and more. Our website is better-organized and easier for visitors to navigate through.

This project just goes to show that if your goals are clear and you partner with the right people, the end result can be something you’re proud of.