Creating Your Smart Backyard

Cheers! Here’s to enjoying a smart backyard! Get a more convenient, comfortable, functional, and FUN backyard with the latest in smart backyard devices.

These days, families are spending more time working and playing at home, so it makes a lot of sense to invest in your house and yard. During the pandemic, we’ve also become aware of the benefits of an outdoor lifestyle. Being outdoors can quickly improve our physical and mental health. Families can benefit from a more active outdoor lifestyle which has been shown to enhance mood and energy.

Take advantage of new technology to improve your home’s whole outdoor experience. You’ll appreciate hands-free voice control and app-connected ease of operation with smart backyard devices. Let’s dive into the latest and greatest options for your backyard.

Save time and energy with smart devices
Want to create or enhance your own backyard paradise, without all the work? It may be even easier than you expect, with the use of the latest smart devices. You can control just about everything in your yard from the convenience of your mobile device. If you haven’t checked out the options recently, you may be surprised by the available choices which run the gamut from pool pumps to patio heaters.

Manufacturers have integrated smart tech into a wide variety of backyard devices programmed for optimal functioning and connected to your mobile device for ease of use.

• Lawnmowers – trim your yard automatically and effortlessly – just let it go
• Plant trackers – save water and time with automated monitoring and watering
• Lawn sprinklers – automatically water your lawn, where and when it’s dry, and stay up to date on water usage
• Smokers and Grills – automatically monitor temperature and cooking progress from your smart device, even if you need to step away
• Theaters – smart screens tie in with your mobile device for up-to-the-minute viewing choices
• Pools and Spas – monitor and control your pool’s sanitization, lights, cleaning, pump, heater and more
• Audio – tie in with your favorite music app to enjoy your playlist on the patio, in the pool, and out in the yard
• Security – automatically provide monitoring, surveillance and alarm system for peace of mind
• Lighting – control the light in your yard, pool and spa for safety, security, and drama
• Patio Heaters – warm your patio automatically for season-extending benefits

Upgrade your backyard experience with Hayward smart devices
Make the most of your outdoor living space, maximize convenience, and save time and energy with a wide variety of smart backyard equipment. Hayward is your single-source solution for the perfect backyard experience. Choose Hayward’s industry-leading smart equipment and automation systems for energy-efficient, high performing, and long-lasting enjoyment. Find your local Hayward Dealer here.

• Industry-Leading Automation
  • Control your backyard environment with Hayward’s line of industry-leading automation including OmniLogic. Automate your pool’s work-intensive functions to save money, energy, and time. You can monitor your automation system from your mobile device and you can use app or voice control for cleaning, filtration, heating, lighting, water features, sanitization and pH balancing.
• OmniHub Smart Control
  • Add smart pool and spa control with the simplest whole-pool upgrade, Hayward OmniHub. Schedule, adjust, and manage settings from anywhere. OmniHub works with virtually every piece of backyard equipment including variable-speed pumps, heaters, pool/spa color lights, spa settings, AquaRite salt systems, booster pumps, backyard lighting, and water features. Read our blog article “Backyard Automation with Hayward OmniHub.”
• Pool Pumps with Smart Control
  • VS Omni variable-speed pool pumps are the easiest, most affordable way to add smart control to existing pools and spas. This smart pool pump integrates seamlessly with most brands and can control virtually every kind of pool and spa equipment.
• Smart Robotic Pool Cleaners
  • Intelligent, state-of-the-art robotic pool cleaners offer programming capability for your choice in scheduled cleaning cycles. Choose from a range of ground-breaking cleaners for superior cleaning, reliability and the convenience of smart control. Read our blog article “Robotic Pool Cleaners make pool Life Easier.”
• Automation-Ready Sanitization
  • Hayward’s range of sanitization solutions provides the ultimate in water quality and purity. Enjoy smart pool control integration with Hayward OmniHub or other Hayward automation solutions which deliver access, control, and management of your sanitization equipment from anywhere through your smartphone or via Alexa.
• Automation-Ready Water Features
  • Add a stunning arc of water, an arching stream from your pool deck, or a customizable waterfall effect with Hayward’s family of flexible, stunning water features. Control and enhance your visual and acoustic environment from the convenience of your mobile or voice-activated device.
• Automation-Ready Yard, Pool and Spa Lights
  • Enhance your backyard’s beauty and pump up the drama with eye-catching color or white lighting. Control your lights from anywhere and accent your backyard, pool and spa with vibrant, energy- efficient LED lights. Hayward lighting adds style, safety, and security; it even brightens hard-to- illuminate areas and allows your backyard environment to really sparkle.
• Automation-Ready Heaters and Heat Pumps
  • Extend the swim season and maintain your ideal pool and spa water temperature all season long with Hayward’s advanced line of heaters. Delivering the ultimate in comfort and energy efficiency, your heater is easy to control poolside or from the comfort of your home or office.

There’s really never been a better time to add the convenience, comfort, function and fun of smart backyard automation to your home. You’ll enjoy the hands-free voice control and app-connected ease of operation that comes with smart devices. In addition, you’ll spend less time maintaining your yard and more time enjoying the best backyard experience possible with the addition of innovative smart devices. Find your local Hayward Dealer here.

The post Smart Home. Smart Backyard. appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.

There’s really nothing as pretty as a sparkling, clean backyard pool. When your pool is working properly and looking great, you’ve got a sweet spot to relax, exercise, and entertain. Whether you maintain your own pool or rely on your local pool pro to keep it in top condition, it’s a good idea to know what it takes to keep your pool clean. 

Are you new to pool ownership altogether? If you’re wondering how a pool works, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself by reading our blog article “Pool 101: Understanding Your Pool” and visit our webpage – How a Pool Works.

No matter if you’re a pool owner veteran, or a brand new pool parent, you should clean your pool on a weekly basis during the swimming season to ensure your water is clean and safe. Maintain your pool equipment to be sure it is working properly and keeping your pool healthy. Read on for more tips for maintaining a clean pool.

Maintain your Pool Water, Surfaces and Equipment

1. Maintain your Pool Water

Skim the Water
Skim the water on a regular basis, preferably every day, using a skimmer net on a long pole. Drag the net across the water surface to capture debris such as bugs, leaves, twigs, and more. Shake the skimmer net to release the debris into a container used for disposal. Use a leaf rake to remove debris that falls to the bottom of the pool before it becomes difficult to remove and causes staining. 

Test and Adjust Water Chemistry
Maintain the proper chemical balance in your pool by regularly testing and adjusting your water chemistry. Take a sample of pool water to your local pool store for best results. Shock your pool water if needed to maintain cleanliness.

Automation systems will monitor your pool chemistry for you. An automated system such as Hayward OmniLogic will keep tabs on your water chemistry.

pHin smart pool monitor with an app is another option for monitoring your pool chemistry. pHin continuously tests your pool water and provides simple dosing instructions. It’s easy to use and set up. pHin indicates the effectiveness of your sanitizer and the degree to which the chemicals work together to kill bacteria and other contaminants effectively.

Keep in mind that environmental factors, such as wind and rain storms, too much sun, droughts, and freezing temperatures can negatively impact your pool chemistry. Get tips for adjusting your pool to the weather here. 

Run the Pump
Run your pool pump every day to maintain the circulation system and to filter the water of dirt and debris.

2. Maintain your Pool Surfaces

Manually Brush the Surfaces
Maintain your pool’s walls, floors, ledges, coves and steps by brushing them frequently. Using a pool brush on a long pole, scrub the pool surfaces, slides and ladders to remove dirt, oil and algae at least once a week. Pay special attention to the water line where oil, dirt and bacteria tend to accumulate and form a scum line or ring. Brush the loose sediment toward the main drain at the bottom of the pool where it can be vacuumed up. Choose a pool brush with bristles designed for best use on your pool’s surface. 

Tip! Pay attention to the cleanliness of your pool deck area too. Leaves, dirt and debris on the deck are likely to find their way into your pool. Trim nearby trees and bushes too.

Manually Vacuum the Floor
Once you’ve brushed the pool surfaces, vacuum your pool using a manual (suction-side or pressure-side) pool cleaner. Attach your manual cleaner to your pool’s circulation system and vacuum the bottom of the pool. Similar to vacuuming your home, move the vacuum head slowly in an overlapping motion to pick up the debris. Dispose of the debris collected in the mesh bag.

Brush and Vacuum Automatically 
Alternatively, you can use an automatic pool cleaner for a quick and effortless clean-up. An automatic cleaner will do much of the cleaning, scrubbing, and vacuuming work for you. Simply plug it in and set the automatic cleaner in the water and soon you’ll have a clean pool. 

Choose from two types of automatic cleaners: 

• Energy-efficient robotic cleaners work separate from your pool’s filtration system. Robotic cleaners follow a programmed cleaning program for a complete clean. 
• Pressure-side or suction-side cleaners use your pool’s filtration system to propel the cleaner around the pool. Suction-side cleaners are the most affordable option. 

3. Maintain your Pool Equipment

There’s more to a clean pool than clean water and pool surfaces. Your pool’s equipment works hard to keep things healthy. Read about how your pool’s circulation system equipment works together in our blog article Pool Circulation Systems. Keep your pool pump, filter, and network of skimmers, drains, and returns in good working condition. 

• The filter captures dirt particles and keeps them out of the pool circulation system. Clean the filter on a regular basis using the method recommended by the filter manufacturer. 
• Debris gets caught in the skimmer and pump baskets too. Debris clogging the pump basket can damage the pump, so be sure to check the pump basket frequently. Empty the baskets out regularly and use a garden hose to force out any excess debris.

Simplify Pool Maintenance with Advanced Equipment

If you want to keep your pool in optimum condition, consider adding advanced equipment that makes it easier to maintain.

• Pump
  • Pool pumps are the heart of your pool’s circulation system. The pump creates a flow of water that allows sanitizing chemicals to circulate and moves dirt and debris out of the pool. Variable speed pumps deliver reliable performance and money saving energy-efficiency.
• Automation
  • Automation systems take a lot of the work out of owning a pool. They automate the work-intensive functions, such as sanitization, balancing pH, cleaning and filtration. In addition, automation systems can save up to 70% on your pool’s energy costs. See Hayward’s range of Pool Automation products here.
• Cleaner
  • Automatic pool cleaners do much of the cleaning work for you. An automatic pool cleaner will pick up dirt and debris quickly and efficiently, with little work on your part. Learn about Hayward’s range of automatic pool cleaners here. If you are considering purchasing an automatic pool cleaner, be sure to read our blog article “How to Choose the Right Pool Cleaner“.
• Sanitization
  • Automated pool sanitization helps you keep your pool super clean and hassle-free. Hayward’s salt chlorination systems turn ordinary salt into a self-regenerating supply of pure chlorine for clean and luxuriously soft water. In addition, Hayward’s UV and Ozone advanced water treatment system produces the ultimate in water quality and purity. Learn more about pool sanitization equipment here.

With the right pool equipment and regular maintenance, you can enjoy a sparkling clean pool, optimal swimming conditions, and a superior pool experience. Want to learn more? Visit our website and find a Hayward product dealer near you.

The post Tips for Maintaining a Clean Pool appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.

With the cooler weather approaching, some may think it’s time to close the pool. Not so fast! You can extend your swimming season with a pool heat pump. 

The NEW Hayward^® HeatPro^® VS Variable-Speed Heat and Cool Heat Pump is the ideal choice for people who use their pool every day for exercise, entertainment, and relaxation. HeatPro VS is engineered to last and work smart, maintaining your pool water at just-the-right temperature. The high performance, energy-efficient pool heat pump quietly and economically allows you to swim comfortably throughout the year.

Learn how a pool heat pump works and why it’s a smart choice for extending your swimming season as the days become cooler.

What is a Pool Heat Pump?

A pool heat pump is a device that uses a limited amount of electrical energy to move heat from one location to another. It uses heat from the air to maintain the perfect water temperature (warm or cool), regardless of the season. Click here to learn more about Hayward heat pumps

In contrast to a gas pool heater, a pool heat pump does not burn fuels – it uses a small amount of electricity. Because it moves heat, rather than generating heat, a heat pump uses less energy than a heater. 

In addition, it can be less expensive to install and operate a pool heat pump than a gas pool heater of the same heating capacity. For comparison, please see the following example:

Hayward Model	Capacity	Efficiency
H150FDN	150k BTU/h	82.7%
HP21404T	140k BTU/h	COP=5.7

Get a custom Heat Pump Cost Analysis for your area here.

Heat pumps are particularly popular in climates with hot summers and mild winters. In cooler climates where temperatures drop below freezing, it requires more energy to maintain the temperature, so the efficiency of the heat pump is reduced. Because of this, a supplemental heating source may be required. 

Pro Tip: Contact a pool pro to analyze your swimming pool and determine the correct pool heat pump size. Professional installation and maintenance are recommended for optimal efficiency and extended equipment life.

Whether the outside temperatures are falling or rising, a heat pump maintains a comfortable, consistent water temperature every day. 

How does a Heat Pump Work?

At its most basic level, a heat pump captures heat and moves it from one place to another. It works in two (very different) modes to efficiently heat or cool your pool or spa water year-round. 

Here’s how it works for heating:

1. The pool pump draws cool water from the pool into the filter and pool heat pump heater. 
2. Outside air is drawn into the heat pump and is directed over the refrigerant-filled evaporator coils. 
3. The coil works as an evaporator, transferring heat into the refrigerant.
4. The liquid refrigerant absorbs the heat and becomes a gas. 
5. Warm gas in the coil passes through the compressor which increases the heat.
6. The compressor sends the hot gas through the condenser. 
7. The condenser transfers the heat to the cooler pool water in the heater.
8. The heated water is returned to the pool.

Here’s how it works for cooling:

Pool heat pumps can also be used in a cooling mode, similar to your home’s air conditioner. When a heat pump is in cooling mode, it takes the heat out of the warm pool water by running it over the refrigerant-filled evaporator coils. The coils then release the heat into the outside air and cool water is returned to the pool.

Ready to Add a Heat Pump to Your Pool or Spa?

With the coming cooler season, many homeowners are considering adding a heat pump to their pool set-up. Hayward’s advanced line of pool heat pumps deliver the ultimate in comfort and energy efficiency.

Hayward HeatPro VS Heat and Cool Heat Pump – Features & Benefits

• Inverter-driven variable speed technology – Features best-in-class part-load COP and incredibly quiet operation
• Vertical discharge fan – Allows for versatile installation in any in-ground pool pad
• Titanium heat exchanger – Operates powerfully and efficiently, even in freezing outdoor temperatures
• Intuitive control panel – Provides a seamless user experience via touchscreen digital display
• AHRI certification – Independent lab testing confirms the product performance and value
• Economical – Saves up to 70% in operating costs over gas heaters
• Innovative – First certified inverter-driven variable-speed heat pump in North America
• Efficient – Operates efficiently even in cooler temperatures

Learn more about the Hayward HeatPro VS Heat and Cool Heat Pump here.

For over 80 years, Hayward has helped pool owners enjoy the pleasures of pool ownership, with energy-efficient, cutting-edge, technologically advanced pool equipment. Pool owners save energy and money with heat pumps and other advanced products by Hayward, ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Award recipient for two years running. Contact your local Hayward Dealer on our website Dealer Locator for additional heat pump information and advice.

As always, stay tuned to the Poolside Blog (or better yet, sign up for our newsletter!) and follow us on our socials (Instagram,  Facebook,  Houzz, Pinterest) for more helpful tips and all things Hayward!

The post Extend Your Swimming Season with a Pool Heat Pump appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.

When it comes to the basic rules for taking care of your pool, keeping it clean is most often the first thing that comes to your mind. A clean pool is an inviting pool. Hayward’s reliable robotic pool cleaners provide pool owners peace of mind, total relaxation and effortless maintenance. Cleaners vacuum and scrub the floor, walls, and coves of the pool. Additionally, they either work with your pool’s filtration system or completely independently.

There are three automatic pool cleaner technologies: robotic, suction, and pressure pool cleaners. Choosing the right cleaner is driven by the size and shape of your pool, what kind of debris falls around your yard, and your budget. Whichever type of cleaner you choose, you can be sure that Hayward pool cleaners will offer innovative features, designs, and advanced engineering designed for every pool type and budget. In this blog post though, we’ll focus on our robotic pool cleaners.

Robotic pool cleaners are the ultimate “plug and play” cleaning solution for most pool shapes, sizes, and finishes – meaning you can just let our cleaner do its job without much human interference. They’re highly energy-efficient and operate separately from your pool’s existing filtration system. Here are all the great advantages a robotic cleaner offers:

• Uses up to 94% less energy than most pressure pool cleaners (about the same amount of energy as a standard light bulb!)
• Suitable for virtually all pool types, shapes, and surfaces
• Simple tool-free installation allows for “plug & play”
• Stand-alone system operates separately from your filtration system
• Handles nearly all types of small and large debris
• Great at increasing the circulation of water by using their own filtration system and pump
• Scheduled cleaning possible on certain models

Choose from our three robotic cleaner product lines: the AquaVac® series, the TigerShark® series, and the SharkVac series! Our AquaVac® series features a modern design and cutting-edge capabilities such as filterless technology that never loses suction and a TouchFree debris canister for effortless cleanup. This series also includes a cordless robotic cleaner for above-ground pools (and flat-bottom in-ground pools). The SharkVac series has an efficient cleaning program and easy access to debris removal. Last, but not least, our legendary TigerShark® series features efficient cleaning programs, powerful vacuum strength, and a unique cartridge filter system that will last you for years to come.  Be sure to learn more about all our different models for more exciting features and technology by visiting our robotic pool cleaners page here.

Cleaning your pool properly is the first step towards maintaining a healthy pool. To learn more about Hayward pool cleaners, click here to browse by pool cleaner type. Get started on the right foot by contacting your local Hayward Dealer for helpful information and advice. You can find local pool professionals on our dealer locator.

The post Robotic Pool Cleaners Make Pool Life Easier appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.

The new DOE pump regulations are coming into effect in July 2021 and we understand business owners may have some concerns about what this could mean for them (if you don’t already know the details, visit our resource center here). We at Hayward want to do our best to keep you informed and give you peace of mind. Changes can be daunting, but the new standards will be nothing but beneficial for everyone. Below, we answer some of our most common questions:

Do you think builders, service professionals and retailers can gain a business advantage by being proactive in compliance with the July 2021 DOE pump regulations? 

Definitely. Selling DOE-compliant pumps—many of which will be variable-speed models—is a win-win scenario for pool professionals and consumers. When it comes to selling compliant variable-speed models, pool pros will benefit financially because of their higher price point, while consumers will save energy and money from the increased efficiency—plus, they’ll enjoy other benefits like noticeably quieter operation, too. Compliance with the new DOE regulations is mandatory, so it’s beneficial to prepare early and maximize selling opportunities. 

Because of the new DOE regulations, manufacturers will be required to meet minimum energy- efficiency requirements for every pump they produce. This new method of measuring energy efficiency is based on a pump’s weighted energy factor (WEF)—the higher the WEF rating, the more efficient the pump. For the first time, consumers will be able to compare the energy efficiency of a variety of pool pumps (similar to comparing MPG ratings when purchasing a new car), helping them make better, more educated choices for their pools. 

Pool pumps manufactured on and after July 19, 2021 will be required to be labeled with their WEF ratings, helping pool pros and pool owners more easily evaluate and compare the energy efficiency across models and brands. 

Builders, service professionals and retailers can gain yet another advantage by being proactive in educating their customers about new compliance standards and WEF ratings. This helps consumers learn how to choose more efficient pumps, ultimately lowering their energy costs and utility bills.

What is Hayward doing to help prepare the industry for DOE implementation in July 2021? 

First and foremost, Hayward is helping the industry prepare by offering the broadest range of DOE- compliant pool pumps—including a variety of single-speed options. Contrary to some industry misconceptions, many Hayward single-speed pumps will be DOE-compliant and will continue to be manufactured and sold. More specifically, Hayward Super Pump and MaxFlo XL single-speed pumps 1 HP and lower will meet the new DOE energy-efficiency standards and will be fully compliant. 

Hayward is also helping the industry stay ahead of the curve by designing product solutions that far exceed the new efficiency requirements. For example, all Hayward variable-speed pumps already pass the most stringent ENERGY STAR 3.0 standards. Plus, Hayward’s portfolio of pumps has some of the best weighted energy factor (WEF) ratings in the industry—and our variable-speed pumps (higher than 1 HP) are the most energy efficient on the market. However, we understand this only matters if pool pros and consumers understand what WEF is and why it’s important when choosing a pump— which is why we’re also focusing heavily on education. 

Hayward has taken a leadership approach to the DOE regulatory changes and is working to educate both the trade and homeowners on what it means for them. By diving into new terms and concepts, explaining what they mean and why they’re important, we’re helping the trade make informed decisions about their businesses and helping homeowners make the best decisions for their pools. 

Hayward recently launched a dedicated DOE Resource Center at hayward.com/regulations that’s loaded with fact sheets, FAQs, videos, infographics, blog articles, whitepapers, recorded webinars, tradeshow class trainings and more. This site will be updated regularly with key DOE updates, important news and other useful resources for continued help on navigating the upcoming changes. We’ve also created a dedicated email address for questions on the regulations, so it’s easy to get in touch with our experts: just send an email to [email protected] 

As we saw with VGB, there will likely be companies that will put off changing their practices until the new DOE regs take effect. What are the downsides of not preparing your business for this new law? 

The key risk of pool pros not preparing their businesses is the uncertainty of exactly when non- compliant pool pumps will no longer be available in specific regions and territories. While inventory of non-compliant pumps will not have to be returned or exchanged after July 2021 and will still be available while supplies last, businesses that don’t take steps to change their practices in advance may find themselves with little-to-no time to transition to compliant pump models, jeopardizing their selling opportunities. 

In the eyes of their customers, there’s also a competitive risk of being left behind by not keeping up with the latest industry technologies. The new DOE regulations will significantly increase awareness of and preference for variable-speed pumps, and failing to appropriately prepare for the regulations may put companies at a distinct competitive disadvantage.

The contents of this blog were originally published in AQUA Magazine’s May 2020 issue.

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Missed our March webinar with AQUA Magazine concerning the upcoming DOE regulation changes? We have it on replay. Be prepared and watch it here:

Visit our DOE Regulations Resources Page, here.

What does this mean for pool owners? Click here to read our blog.

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As always, stay tuned to the Poolside Blog (or better yet, sign up for our blog newsletter!) and follow us on our socials (Instagram,  Facebook,  Houzz, Pinterest) for more helpful tips and all things Hayward!

The post The New DOE Pump Regulations: Your Business, Our Industry, and How Its All Affected appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.

Are you looking to spruce up your backyard with a pool, but you’re concerned about space, your needs and desires, and the unique qualities of your yard? You may be surprised at the amount of things you may need to consider. You may also be surprised to learn you have more options than you think and no, we’re not talking about inflatable above-ground pools. If you’re reading this you might be concerned about how small your yard is, where the ideal location for a pool may be, and what options there are for you, that you may not know about.

Consider Backyard Living Space for Starters

Adding a pool is more than just… adding a pool. A yard needs room to breathe. Space for greenery, furniture, and other recreational or relaxation activities is recommended and should be considered. Fire pit? Dining area? Lounge area? Bar? Even if you have a small yard, do not surrender all that precious real estate to your new splash zone. Plan well, maximize your backyard space, and be smart about the size of your pool. Think about how you will want to use your yard year-around and plan accordingly.

Is privacy a concern? Look around and assess the situation regarding your neighbors. Do you live in a noisy area? Add some water features to distract. Have a lot of greenery? Green space adds natural beauty to your yard. Trees, plants, and grass help cool and filter the air and are natural noise blockers too. Also think about foliage and debris that will end up in your pool if any greenery is nearby. There’s no need to manually clean that debris out of your pool! Check out the automatic pool cleaners that can do the work for you. Also, think about the areas where you would like sunlight and where you would like shade and make the necessary changes to your yard.

Your kids, pets, and guests will also appreciate any empty space for other needs, especially when the pool is not operational. Even if furniture wasn’t present before, it will be essential once your pool is up and running. We’re sure you wouldn’t want wet floors – or wet everything when guests step out of the pool and have nowhere else to go. Also consider the space that might be needed for safety measures like fencing – especially if you have children and pets.

Who’s Your Pool For?

Think of your family and potential guests, too. Whether you plan on having parties every weekend and have kids who are extremely active or if you’d simply like a new relaxation station or small swim spa for you and your partner, plan appropriately. You’ll need a few extras if you’re in the former camp and therefore, a larger yard. If in the latter scenario, a small inground pool or a small above ground pool may look awkward in a large, backyard space. Consider what’s best for your yard in addition to what you need and want.  

Analyzing Your Backyard For Placement

Keep in mind some essential pool surroundings and features as you think about placement. More elaborate decks or new patios, new landscaping, and new backyard amenities will likely take up more backyard space than the actual pool. Also consider the multitude of different designs and shapes your pool can take according to any restrictions your yard may have or the creativity you might want to unleash. Pools are more than just squares, rectangles, and circles these days.

You may want to ask yourself a few questions before landing on a spot for your pool. Is the potential spot flat enough? How much space is there to walk around? Did I check with my local government about installing a pool? Have I checked my survey plot? How will this affect greenery? Is this area prone to rainwater runoff?

Concerns about Small Yards and Pools

Most pool installers agree – almost no backyard is too small for a pool. Work closely with your pool designer and see if they’re able to create and add elements that will make your pool feel larger than it is. We suggest you research some examples online, in print magazines, or look through our Pinterest board! Get a feel for how they may look like and you may even get some inspiration to show your contractor. Do keep in mind that you might have to turn down extra features like slides, waterfalls, diving boards, and elaborate rock work if your pool isn’t big enough. Above all, remember, small pools are pools too!

Other Backyard Obstacles

Your pool’s placement, shape, and size could be influenced by your local zoning laws, any differences in elevation, and drainage considerations. Be sure to check with your local government about any potential backyard property rules before installing your pool such as certain buffers required between property lines and buildings. Make sure your contractor is in the know!

Remember that it rains sometimes! You might be stuck dreaming about sunny days, relaxing in your pool, but consider how rainwater might affect your new aquatic retreat. You will also need room for construction machinery to get by, some space for materials to be laid down before installation, and the appropriate yard conditions to host equipment (or, at least, knowing that you’ll need a landscaper after all is said and done). Almost ready to start digging? It’s not just dirt down there! Make sure to review your home’s survey plot or ask your realtor about any and all possible obstacles, such as: utility lines, water, hard rocks, etc.

As you can see, there are a few questions you should ask yourself first before starting construction. With some planning and the right yard conditions, your backyard will soon host the ultimate pool party or be home to the best self-care spot for you and those you love.

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Thinking about building your first pool? Build your new pool at MyDreamPool.com, and check out our social media sites: Instagram, Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest for inspiration.

As always, stay tuned to the Poolside Blog (or better yet, sign up for our blog newsletter!) for more helpful tips and all things Hayward!

The post Do I have the right yard for a pool? appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.

Let’s talk about pool fencing. When it comes to pool safety, we often think of practical solutions like life jackets, pool rings, arm floaties, or even the pool-guarding gator (yikes!). Preventative measures such as fences and covers are great at keeping children and animals at bay when no one is around. Here’s an in-depth look at one of those safety measures; no, not gators, we’re talking fencing.

Mesh

Mesh fencing is one of the most common and affordable options around. It’s see-through for when you’re watching over from inside your home or busy tending to the grill. The material also prevents children and animals from climbing the fence, but mesh also easily deteriorates and must be maintained well to keep it in tip-top shape.
If you’re looking for an easily removable fence, this is the way to go. Although, make sure you pay particular attention to the mesh fence set up instructions as improperly resetting after removal can result in gaps between panels.

Chain-link

While chain-link fencing provides a fairly unobstructed view of its surroundings, its design would allow for easy climbing. Perhaps you could make an investment in a security camera system, or keep a good ol’ fashioned eye on the pool. The argument for using this type of barrier is that chain link fences are affordable and less susceptible to corrosion and any other wear and tear.

Wood

Choosing wood fencing will afford you many options considering the many types of wood and finishes you could choose from. It’s sure to compliment virtually any environment your pool finds itself in and it could even match a design detail found on the back porch or inside your home. This type of fencing also offers privacy in exchange for unobstructed views other types of barriers provide – it’s all dependent on what your wants and needs are! Depending on the type of wood chosen, maintenance and durability varies, so choose wisely.
The three most popular types are: cedar, pine, and redwood. Cedar wood is known for its rot-resistant properties and a lovely red pine oil sent which keep insects away. It’s considered to be medium-range in both cost and longevity. Pine is best if you’re on a budget and although, it’s not expected to last as long as Cedar, you should still be able to get a good decade of use out of it. It’s usually treated with a chemical that helps with durability and pests, but the substance can leave a stain. Redwood rounds out the list as the most expensive, but it gives you the highest value for your money. It’s the most rot-resistant, the strongest, and its charmingly striking in appearance.

Vinyl

Vinyl fencing is a good alternative to wood. It similarly offers the ability to hide the pool area and customize the style of the vinyl according to your liking. The material also has the added benefit of low upkeep and not being as vulnerable to the elements and other concerns when compared to wood and mesh.
Vinyl is susceptible to temperature change; contracting and expanding throughout the year if you live in temperate regions. Make sure to consider your area’s climate to determine if vinyl fencing is right for you.

Glass

Some of these options can be unsightly (especially the gator). Glass panels are on the rise because they combine the peace of mind needed with pleasing, modern aesthetics.
These panels let you keep the gorgeous views you might have or at least, an unobstructed view of your kids and those veggies on the grill. Glass fencing is also said to hold up very well over time. With an ability to withstand extreme weather and corrosive environments, this type of fencing gives pool owners more time to make a splash. Also consider plexi-glass which is seen as a substitute to glass panels. Plexi-glass offers similar aesthetics to glass and while not as strong, it is much more affordable.
Glass panels lend themselves to any home, no matter your style. Whether it’s a simple, suburban yard or a luxurious, secluded escape, your new fencing will blend right in! Manufacturers also offer ways to customize the look of these safety barriers with different types of frames to better suit your tastes.

No matter which fencing option you choose, make sure you’re following your local codes and laws. Let’s be proactive in securing our pools while also adding to and enhancing its look!
Just getting started in building your first pool? Get a vision for your new pool at MyDreamPool.com, and on our social media sites: Instagram, Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest. As always, stay tuned to the Poolside Blog (or better yet, sign up for our blog newsletter!) for more helpful tips and all things Hayward!

The post Pool Fencing: Combining Safety and Style appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.

Would you like help in understanding your pool? Are you a new pool owner or thinking about building your dream pool? You’ve come to the right place! 

At Hayward, consumers reach out to us every day with questions about pool ownership. They know we are passionate about pools. We’re excited to help families enjoy a trouble-free pool experience and an improved lifestyle. Not only that, but we bring the best in technology to pool owners, with energy-efficient and cost-saving products. These are just a few of the many reasons Hayward was named EPA ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year.

Understanding your pool is not that difficult. Let’s dive in!

How a Swimming Pool Works

So, how DOES a swimming pool work? Understanding your pool can be very helpful to new pool owners, so you can feel confident about maintaining it in top condition. Let’s explore how a pool works in more detail. 

The pool circulation system has many parts that work together to collect, treat, and return clean, safe water to your pool. The circulation system includes the pool pump and a network of valves, skimmers, drains, and returns:

1. Water is drawn from the pool via the main drain and skimmer(s) using suction created by the pool pump. 

2. The skimmer has a basket that captures debris before it reaches the pump’s impeller. 

3. The pump generates pressure which circulates water through a filter to catch any additional debris.

4. The filtered water goes back to the pool. In many pools, the filtered water is also heated and/or treated before being sent back to the pool. 

This system of collection, filtration, and return of pool water is repeated over and over to maintain a healthy, sparkling pool. 

Swimming Pool Equipment 

• Pool pump – The heart of the pool, a pump circulates the pool water. Energy-efficient variable-speed pumps save money and energy and are quieter than single-speed models. They pay for themselves in two years with energy savings. Learn more about Hayward pumps, the most energy-efficient pumps available. 

• Filter – The lungs of the pool, a filter removes debris from the water to keep the pool clean. There are three types of filters: Diatomaceous Earth (DE) filters, Cartridge filters, and Sand filters. In each case, the filter cleans the water, while allowing for efficient flow. Learn more about Hayward filters. 

• Heater – A heater warms the pool or spa water, extending the swimming season into the cooler months. Natural and propane gas heaters regulate and maintain the perfect water temperature. Heat pumps use heat from the air to maintain the ideal temperature (warm or cool) throughout the swimming season. Learn more about Hayward heaters and heat pumps.

• Lights – Pool, spa, and backyard lights enhance your backyard experience with enhanced ambiance. In addition, lights add safety and security to your backyard environment. Lights are available in white or colors in multiple brightness levels and they can be automatically controlled. Learn more about Hayward lighting.

• Sanitization – Sanitization helps to keep your pool water in healthy and usable condition. It can be automated via a chemical feeder or it can be done manually. Saltwater sanitization turns ordinary salt into a self-regenerating supply of chlorine. Read about the Benefits of Salt Water Pools. Learn more about Hayward sanitization.

• Automation – Automation conveniently and reliably controls pool and spa equipment. It allows you to manage and control nearly every feature of your pool, spa, and yard from your smartphone. Learn more about Hayward automation.

• Cleaner – Cleaners vacuum and scrub the floor, walls, and coves of the pool. There are three automatic cleaner technologies: robotic, suction side, and pressure side. Cleaners either work with your pool’s filtration system or completely independently. Learn more about Hayward pool cleaners.

• Water Feature – Water features add sound and visual beauty to a pool. You can create dramatic, special effects with deck jets, sheers, laminars, and bubblers. In addition, they can be combined with lighting for really stunning effects. Learn more about Hayward water features.

Understanding your pool has many benefits. Take it one step further by contacting your local Hayward Dealer for helpful information and advice. You can also find local pool professionals on our website Dealer Locator. Visualize your in-ground dream pool, plan your budget, and get inspired at MyDreamPool.com. 

The post Pool 101: Understanding Your Pool appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.

Energy-efficient equipment is not only good for the environment, but can also save you money. Once you’ve decided to increase your pool’s energy-efficiency, the equipment you choose will make all the difference.

Pool Pumps

Pool pumps can be one of the largest energy costs in your home, causing many pool owners to look for energy-efficient equipment. Variable speed pumps adjust the speed they run at based on your other equipment’s needs, which optimizes energy usage. Switching to a variable speed ENERGY STAR certified pool pump is the best way to increase your pool’s energy-efficiency. Hayward has the broadest range of ENERGY STAR certified pool pumps, including top picks such as Tristar® VS and Super Pump® VS. Energy-efficient pool pumps can pay for themselves in as little as two pool seasons. Today, more and more companies are supplying families with the energy-efficiency they’re looking for, not only for their homes, but for their businesses too. This is all possible because an ENERGY STAR product delivers on its promise of cost-effective, relevant, and high-quality energy efficiency solutions.

The Department of Energy is making it even easier to determine the energy-efficiency of pool pumps. By July 19, 2021 all newly manufactured pumps will need to be labeled with their weighted energy factor (WEF) score. The higher the WEF score, the more energy-efficient the pump is.  While pool pumps are the most important product when it comes to the energy-efficiency of your pool, you can also add other equipment that will make your pump’s job easier and further reduce energy expenditures.

Filters

If energy-efficiency is your goal, don’t overlook filters. While filters don’t take a lot of energy to run, they do impact how hard your pump has to work to get the job done. Having to backwash your filter uses a lot of energy. However, when using cartridge filters, you simply clean the cartridge itself, eliminating the need to backwash. Hayward’s SwimClear Multielement cartridge filter is designed to provide the most energy-efficient water flow and can save up to 2,500 gallons of water per year by eliminating backwashing.

For smaller and mid-size pools, spas and water features, the SwimClear Single Element is a great energy-efficient option. It has industry-leading hydraulic efficiency which allows the pump to run at a slower speed or for less time, which saves you energy and money. If you prefer a dichotomous earth (D.E.) filter, hope for energy-efficiency is not lost. By pairing a Hayward DEP 500 Series filter with a SelectaFlo High-Efficiency D.E. filter valve, you can reduce headloss by 90% resulting in improved water circulation and lower energy costs.

Heaters

You likely have a pool heater if you enjoy keeping your pool at the perfect swimming temperature. Picking the right heating equipment impacts your pool’s overall energy-efficiency. Heating your pool can be done with a heat pump or a gas heater. If you want to maximize your pool’s energy-efficiency, your climate plays an important role in the type of heater you should use. Heat pumps use the outside air to heat your pool, so they are a great option when you live in a climate that has a steady temperature. Hayward HeatPro Heat Pumps have a titanium counter-flow heat exchanger that maximizes heat transfer and can reduce energy costs by up to 70%. If you live in a climate that is variable and you don’t use your pool year-round, a gas heater is likely a better option for you.

If a gas heater is best for your pool and climate, keep in mind that the size of the heater matters. To avoid overworking your heater and pool pump, make sure to check that your heater size is right for your pool. A great option is Hayward’s Universal H-Series heater. It is designed with advanced hydraulic efficiency and can save up to 18% in energy costs by reducing the amount of time your pump runs. In addition to its energy-efficiency, it also has a low environmental impact when compared to other gas heaters on the market.

Lighting

You are now on your way to optimizing your pool’s energy-efficiency, but we couldn’t leave you without mentioning LED lighting. Adding LED lights is another great way to improve your pool’s energy-efficiency. Hayward LED pool lights use up to 86% less energy than incandescent lights. LED lights can also last up to 10 times longer, which means less maintenance for you. Hayward has a broad range of LED lighting options. Our Universal ColorLogic LED pool and spa lights can be installed in virtually any pool or spa. They also let you illuminate your pool or spa with a variety of colors and light shows to perfectly fit your mood.

Find the right equipment for you.
When searching for energy-efficient products, remember that every pool is different and depending on your location, your pool may need specific products for optimal performance. Locate a pool professional near you to get started on your energy savings today.

Save even more with rebates!
Many utility service providers offer rebates to pool owners who purchase energy-efficient pool equipment, such as Hayward’s ENERGY STAR Certified variable-speed pumps. Find a variety of utility and product rebates in our Rebate Center.

Sign-Up for our Newsletter to stay informed on our ENERGY STAR, energy efficient products.

The post Energy Efficient Pool Equipment Helps You Save appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.

Reclaim how you spend your time by adding an OmniHub automation system to your pool and spa. A simple install provides flexible, scalable, smartphone-enabled pool and spa control that anyone can master. Keep reading to find out how pool automation can provide easy control and simplify your life.

Easy Control

Many pool owners know all too well the amount of time it takes to adjust your pool and spa settings. For example, switching on the spa is not as simple as you’d like it to be — once you’ve made your way out to the corner of the yard to change your equipment settings, then the heater has to be turned on, and the valves have to be rotated so the water goes to the spa. Finally, the pump has to be turned up to the desired setting. Suffice it to say, switching the pool to spa mode and back again can feel too much like hard work – especially when you try doing it in the dark! Why not reclaim your valuable time by using a pool automation system to easily manage your pool and spa settings. 

Many pool owners know all too well the amount of time it takes to adjust your pool and spa settings. For example, switching on the spa is not as simple as you’d like it to be — once you’ve made your way out to the corner of the yard to change your equipment settings, then the heater has to be turned on, and the valves have to be rotated so the water goes to the spa. Finally, the pump has to be turned up to the desired setting. Suffice it to say, switching the pool to spa mode and back again can feel too much like hard work – especially when you try doing it in the dark! Why not reclaim your valuable time by using a pool automation system to easily manage your pool and spa settings. 

Imagine controlling most of your pool and spa pad with just the touch of a button. By adding OmniHub pool automation, what once was a tedious manual operation, can now be easily controlled through the user-friendly smartphone app, “OmniLogic”, available on iOS and Android devices. You can even tell your Alexa device, “Ask Hayward to turn on the spa,” and, just like that, the heater, the valves, and the jets adjust and come on automatically.

Not to mention, OmniHub can help bring peace of mind. With pool control from virtually anywhere, you never have to worry about leaving your pool on the wrong settings. Inadvertently leaving the pool heater on for only a few days can be an expensive mistake! With OmniHub pool controls, you can quickly check the status of your pool equipment and settings right from your phone and save money by reducing unnecessary energy usage.

Maximize your pool usage by adding a pool automation system to quickly and easily adjust your pool and spa settings so when you are ready to jump in, your pool and spa are ready too.

Simplicity is Key

OmniHub is simple. Once it’s set up, an intuitive app makes it easy to find and control all of your pool equipment. When using the app, at a glance, you can check on every aspect of your pool equipment and see the current status of operations — pump, lights, heater, chlorinator, and other devices. You can also easily adjust settings, set heater temperatures, turn on light shows, activate water features, as well as set chlorination levels, schedule events, and create themes of favorite settings. You are even alerted when equipment needs attention. By adding a pool automation system, you will streamline your pool control and maintenance.

The OmniHub pool automation system even lets you change multiple settings at once. By setting themes in your OmniHub app you can easily control multiple settings by simply saying “Alexa, ask Hayward to turn on my {Pool Party}”. It doesn’t get simpler than that.

Get a pool automation system that will grow with you. Additional relays allow you to add even more automation. And unlike other options on the market, OmniHub is compatible with most other brands of pool and spa equipment. Your OmniHub system is flexible. You can continue to add and update equipment to your pool and spa because it is made to expand. As you update your pool, OmniHub is right there with you.

Want to learn more about our Omni automation products? Find a Hayward Dealer near you or visit our Pool and Spa automation page.

The post Smart Pool Automation that Really Works: Why Pool Owners are Choosing OmniHub Control appeared first on Hayward POOLSIDE Blog.