Most Las Vegas pools operate year-round due to the desert climate, with peak season from May through October. Many commercial pools and resorts stay open 24/7 during peak months, while residential pools typically benefit from heating systems November through March.
Above ground pools require proper installation on level ground, regular liner maintenance (lasting 6-10 years), and balanced water chemistry with chlorine levels based on CYA. This comprehensive guide covers everything from DIY installation to winterization and troubleshooting common issues.
Pool winterization involves balancing chemicals, protecting equipment, and proper closing procedures. The process varies by climate zone but typically includes shocking, lowering water levels, and winterizing plumbing to prevent freeze damage.
Pool heaters can fail due to electrical issues, gas problems, water flow restrictions, or component failures. Most common issues like pilot light problems, low water flow, and thermostat malfunctions can be diagnosed and often fixed without professional help.
Pool pumps require regular maintenance and troubleshooting to operate efficiently. Common issues include low water flow, unusual noises, and electrical problems that can often be resolved with proper diagnosis and maintenance.
Yes, vinyl pools need calcium hardness maintained between 150-250 ppm to prevent equipment corrosion and water balance issues. This is lower than plaster pools which need 250-350 ppm.
Solar pool heaters work by circulating pool water through dark collectors that absorb solar energy and transfer heat to the water. The heated water returns to your pool through a system of pumps, valves, and controllers.
Pool covers are highly effective at preventing algae by blocking sunlight and reducing debris, but they don't eliminate the need for proper chemical balance and filtration.
Above ground pools should typically be at least 10 feet from your house, though local building codes may require 15-25 feet. Check with your local building department for specific setback requirements in your area.
Variable speed pool pumps can save 50-90% on energy costs compared to single speed pumps and are required by law in many areas. They're worth the investment for most pool owners despite higher upfront costs.
Inground pool costs range from $35,000-$100,000+ depending on size, materials, and features. Concrete pools are most expensive ($50,000-$100,000), vinyl liner pools are mid-range ($35,000-$65,000), and fiberglass pools fall in between ($40,000-$85,000).
Pool heaters typically last 5-8 years for gas, 8-12 years for electric, and 10-20 years for heat pumps, depending on maintenance, usage, and water chemistry balance.
You need a pool heater if you live in a climate where water temperatures drop below 78°F during your desired swimming season, or if you want to extend your pool usage beyond the natural warm months.
Yes, you can leave an above ground pool up all year, but it requires proper winterization including chemical balancing, equipment protection, and regular maintenance to prevent freeze damage and extend pool life.
Pool heaters work by transferring heat to pool water through different methods: gas heaters burn fuel to heat water directly, electric heaters use resistance coils, heat pumps extract ambient heat from air, and solar heaters use sun energy to warm water as it circulates through collectors.
