Mud Slingers Pool & Patio
Mud Slingers Pool & Patio

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What You Need to Know About Zinc Anode

Do you know what zinc anode is? Or a better question, does your pool builder know what zinc anode is? 

Zinc anode is standard on all Mud Slingers pools. A common question we get about swimming pools is about corrosion on metal parts. Especially when it’s a saltwater pool, which we specialize in. 

Corrosion can occur when electrolysis in the water is present. The zinc anode is plumbed directly into the plumbing lines and is also attached to the #8 copper bonding wire that is run continuously through all the metals parts on the pool and pool equipment. 

The sole purpose of this component is to directly absorb any electrical current in the water to keep the pool parts safe. If you don’t have one on your current or potential pool ask why.



Why We Use Jandy Valves

These days swimming pools have a lot of water features such as deck jets, waterfalls and bubblers along with the normal water lines for skimmers, main drains and return jets. 

At Mud Slingers, we like to use standard “Jandy valves.” These valves are made to easily open and close when water is needed to send to a particular water feature when desired. 

When using a Jandy valve with the addition an actuator, the motorized unit can automatically open the valve to activate the water feature. This can be done with your smart device through your wifi app which comes standard with all equipment packages at Mud Slingers Pool & Patio.



Pipe Tips for New Pool Owners

When looking into building a new pool make sure your potential builder is using all Schedule 40 rigid (hard) pipe or better, like Schedule 80, for all of the plumbing and fittings. Flexible PVC pipe is more susceptible to damage and an even bigger risk of termites eating through the pipe. If this occurs, it could cause air to enter the system and cause the pool pump to lose prime and cavitate or burn the motor up which can be a costly replacement. Also, these plumbing lines are underground and usually under concrete decking that would need to be torn out to make the repair. 

If you see rolls of the flex pipe pictured below on your project, demand that your builder immediately remove this and replace it with rigid pipe.

In addition, you want to make sure you are using a minimum of 2″ diameter pipe for all lines. This will get maximum GPM (gallons per minute) for great filtration, heating and disinfection to achieve a quicker turnover time. Six hours is recommended and required for commercial or community pools.

If your builder is using a pipe smaller than 2″ in diameter, in addition to circulation inadequacy, this can cause back pressure on the lines which then causes back pressure on the pump motor, ultimately resulting in shortened motor life.

Plumbing is very important so please verify the type and size of piping being used.

 

Example of flex pipe to avoid.



The Pool Cover that Does More than Keep Debris Out

If you’ve been a pool owner for any amount of time, you’ve been told to use a pool cover. Traditional pool covers help keep dirt, leaves and other unwanted items out of your pool.
There is also another type of pool cover that has gained popularity – a solar pool cover. Not only does it keep debris out of your pool, it also heats your pool without fancy cords or machines. Solar pool covers capture the energy of the sun to keep your water warm.
In addition, solar pool covers also help keep more water in your pool by limiting the amount of evaporation that occurs.
 This type of pool cover is recommended for those who live in a sunny area and want to save money.



Ask Us: How Do Solar Heaters Work?

If your goal is to reduce your pool operation costs and be kinder to the planet, you might want to consider installing solar panels to help heat your pool.
Solar pool heaters allow water to be pumped through a filter and then through a solar collector, where it is heated. The heated water is then pushed back into the pool. The $3,000 to $4,000 investment can be great for those who are able to install solar panels in an unshaded area to collect direct solar energy.
As an added bonus, the solar collectors can also help cool the pool during the summer months.



Ask Us: What Is The Perfect Pool Water Temperature For Swimming?

There is no single perfect temperature for pool water. The perfect temperature truly depends on what you are doing in the pool – whether it’s recreational or competitive – who is in the pool and even the air temperature. Typically, somewhere in the 80°F to 90°F range is comfortable. Something to also keep in mind is that algae and bacteria will thrive in warmer water, so it is important to ensure that you have a good balance of chemicals and temperature.



Ask Us: When Is The Right Time To Open My Pool?

pool
Public pools in Indiana are open Memorial Day through Labor Day but when is the right time to open your personal pool?  The quick answer is once temperatures are consistently 60° and higher, which typically happens in April. Some may think that the longer it is open the more work and the more cost but don’t discount the fact that the longer the pool is open the more time there is for fun and memories! So…if you haven’t opened your pool yet…it’s time to enjoy!
Have a question? Please use the “Contact Section” to submit a question about your pool or hot tub.



Pool Expectations During the Four Seasons

It’s impossible to have every season in one week – unless you live in Indiana. We experience unpredictable weather that may be hot and sunny one day, then cold and snowy the next. While unpredictable weather may seem like a challenge, don’t let that stop you from having the pool of your dreams. Pools can be great in any type of weather.
Having a pool in the spring: While we never know exactly when the weather will become nice, you can guarantee as soon as it does, your pool will be waiting for you. Until it does, simply work on keeping your pool and surrounding area clean and in good shape. Outdoor pool and patio spaces serve as natural gathering places for families looking to break spring fever. The spring is also the perfect time to begin construction on your new pool.
Having a pool in summer: This one is a no brainer because having a pool during Indiana summers is the best! The hot temperatures and humidity make a dip in the pool the perfect way to cool off. From barbeques to holidays, pools are a great focal point of every party and keeps the kids entertained.
Having a pool in fall: There are some unexpectedly hot days often lingering during the autumn months. This gives you an opportunity to enjoy the last tastes of the warm weather.
Having a pool in winter: As we get to the traditionally colder months, winterizing your pool and preparing it to withstand snow are very important. If you still want to swim in the winter months, there is good news as hot tubs can be used in any type of weather!
Whatever the weather, pools make for a great time year-round — even in Indiana.



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