PENTAIR New Pump For Pools and Water Features

The most powerful, efficient WhisperFlo pump ever made is now available in a wider range of versions and ratings. Our new 2hp, 2.5hp and 5hp versions join the existing 3hp models, in a variety of ratings.

The new WhisperFloXF pool pump was developed using the most advanced engineering tools available — CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and FEA (Finite Element Analysis). The proprietary impeller design delivers a higher level of precision concentricity for increased efficiency. The proprietary hydraulic isolator smoothes the water flow inside the volute, raising the efficiency even higher. With capabilities in excess of 200gpm, WhisperFloXF is an ideal choice for many residential and commercial applications; especially those involving water features, negative edges and slides. WhisperFloXF is a drop-in replacement for WhisperFlo pumps; and allows for simple replacement of Challenger pumps!

WhisperFloXF pump features include:  

• Available in various horsepower, speed and efficiency rating combinations.
• New hydraulic isolator separates priming water from pumping water for faster priming, more turbulence-free flow and increased efficiency.
• New upgraded dual-compartment motor for simplified field wiring.
• New union connectors included for connecting directly to 2.5″ or 3″ plumbing.
• Diamond seals made of oxidation-resistant, self-retaining EPDM rubber for increased durability and tighter seal.
• Extra-large, robust basket with smooth surface for easy debris removal.
• Drop-in replacement for original WhisperFlo; and optional riser plate enables easy Challenger replacement.
• Modular plumbing system means less need to cut and glue pipe.
• Easy-carry handle; Easily removable, ergonomic lock ring; and see-through lid for easy basket inspection.
• External port threading and tool-free union nuts need only hand-tightening.

WhisperFlo XF (PDF)

Discussion on using “Soft Water” in your Pool

Today I was approached by a client that was having a new Soft Water System added to their home.  The Soft Water Sales Person suggested they purchase the higher-end system to accommodate filling their 35,000 gallon pool for a mere $3000 additional dollars.  It was implied that the use of soft water would eliminate the chlorine smell and scale on surrounding tile.    I should point out they presently have a “chlorine” pool with no salt chlorination system in place today.

After researching several forums on the subject it appears this seems to be a question that may require some clarity.   The following is an excerpt from “Swimming Pool Help Forums”.

A question was submitted by Dan R. with the following post:

My question is this: I have always gone by, if the pool is filled with soft water, you are begging for trouble. I understand water is “thirsty” and will seek things out to balance itself, like for instance, lack of calcium in the water, it will find it elsewhere, like from the plaster? Thus causing damage? 
So, if the above is accurate, why not can one fill their pool with soft water in the event that the pool is on a salt/chlorine generating system. Like home water softeners, the calcium molecule is replaced by the sodium or sometimes potassium molecule, so would that make the water not “thirsty” anymore thus resulting in a lack of damage to the plaster? Seems to me logical, but I am no water balance scientist! 

Here is the response from the forum moderator Larry:

(1)  Your assumptions are absolutely correct. The reason we emphasise calcium hardness in swimming pool water is that naturally occurring hardness in fresh water is mostly a result of calcium. Also the nature of pool construction means the water is able to leach the calcium from the calcium carbonate found in concrete, plaster and tile grout.

The hardness level of water is made up of a variety of minerals, including magnesium, potassium and of course sodium. In fact the most common complaint of pool owners using salt water chlorine generators is scale.

Soft water can be conditioned using salt if you install a chlorine generator, but for fresh water pools adding calcium in the form of calcium chloride is the easiest, cheapest and quickest way.

So in conclusion, it is not important which minerals are responsible for the water hardness level, but it is actually the level of the total hardness that is of prime importance in pool water balance.

(2)  Well Dan, as you have implied, using a softener doesn’t reduce the hardness levels in salt water pools by the very nature of their working principle.

An ion exchange mineral, typically a resin, adsorbs calcium and releases sodium (which comes from the salt brine regeneration). The resin has a greater affinity for sodium so will only absorb calcium when there is no sodium present. But the pool water is salty, so the softener will never “use up” the sodium and get round to dealing with the calcium. Any calcium that is trapped will be displaced by the next sodium ion to happen by.

Hard water is typically treated with a chelating agent to render the calcium inactive. It actually bonds with the calcium ion, keeping it in solution and prevents it from plating out as scale.

Using a water softener on the make up water line will reduce the risk of hard pool water. Close monitoring of the pool water hardness to make sure the hardness is not too low must still be done.

One of the most common sources of hardness in indoor pools not exposed to sunlight is the calcium hypochlorite (non-stabilized “shock” chlorine). If the pool uses cal hypo, regular backwashing is necessary. In the case of a salt water chlorine generator, the hardness will be a result of the salt and the fill water as you mentioned.

The Langelier Index was developed before the advent of salt water systems. At that time hardness was most easily and economically measured as calcium hardness. Nowadays test kits for total hardness are readily available and most test strips show total hardness only.  The Langelier calculations can effectively be done using the total hardness value. I remember reading something about the correlation between calcium hardness and total hardness in the Langelier Index. I’ll try to find it and post the details here.

(3)  Total Hardness vs. Calcium Hardness

Total Hardness = Calcium Hardness x 1.18 

Looking through the reference books again I see the calcium is “required” chemically to create calcium carbonate (CaCO3) to ensure saturation. If we remove all the calcium in a sodium-rich environment, it would make sense that we may end up with an abundance of sodium carbonate (pH up) or sodium bicarbonate (alkalinity up). 

So by removing the calcium that “stabilizes” the carbonate ions, we would end up with water having high pH, alkalinity or both. Perhaps a water chemistry specialist could comment on this. 

It is the calcium carbonate that causes scale in hard water, but it seems we still need a certain concentration in the pool.

Planning for Your New Swimming Pool

What is the best method to begin approaching the purchase of a swimming pool?  

Like any investment of this size, it is critical that you take your time in making decisions. Following are some tips to help get you started on the proper path when purchasing a swimming pool:

1. Look at as many pools as you can—It is often a good idea to visit your friends’ swimming pools, visit pool stores, or go to an outdoor furniture store for motivation and to get ideas.  Outdoor furniture stores often have displays that make it easier to visualize your future backyard.  It is also a good idea to purchase a swimming pool magazine (such as Pool & Spa Living) or other backyard magazine and get ideas of what you want your backyard to look like.  In addition, the internet has endless photographs of swimming pools and other backyard features.   As you see things that you like, make a list of them. 

2. Discuss the project with your family—It is important that the pool meets your particular needs.  Such items as the following should  be considered.

• Pool placement in the yard
• Game pool or diving pool
• Pool only or pool with spa
• Traditional look or tropical look
• Decorative water features
• Patio area for table and lounge chairs

3. Get a copy of your plot plan (also called survey plan) – This is a legal drawing of your property and is usually with your mortgage papers.  It typically shows where the house is located on your property which will help determine how much backyard space that you have available.  Often times easements and building setbacks will limit the backyard space that is available. 

4. Make some drawings of your ideas—This is optional, but many people find it enjoyable to make some of their own drawings before hiring a designer.  It is best to draw a scaled drawing, which makes the features relative size to each other.  A scale ruler and graph paper can be purchased at most office supply or art stores.  You can take the space that is shown on the plot plan and transfer it to your graph paper using either ¼” or 1/8” scale.  On the drawing, include the fence, the back of the house, existing patios, trees, and anything that you want to keep.   After you have some ideas of what you want and where you want it, it is time to visit pool companies to continue the planning process.

There are clearly many factors to consider when selecting the proper swimming pool for your situation—but proper planning and preparation will assure you that you get what fits your needs, yard, and budget.

Source: Matt Gohlke, Gohlke Pools. http://gohlkepools.com/index.html

Is your Pool or Spa LOSING WATER?

“Where’s my water going?” is the question we get quite often. Some of our readers concerns center around the question if their pool has a possible breach, leak, hole, etc. that is causing their loss of water. In my experience, if your pool or spa is losing water it generally is because of an Equipment Malfunction (check valve, automation valve, etc.), Mother Nature or the elusive Cannon Ball Effect.

I’ve touched on some of these subjects in our blog in the past. See applicable links.

Equipment Malfunction

• Determine if your pool is losing water due to evaporation or a leak.
• How will a pool leak professional find my swimming pool leak?
• Is your Spa Losing Water?
• Repairing Jandy Valves

Mother Nature

Mother Nature has a way of causing evaporation in our pools and spas. Simple concept right? What people don’t realize is that they can lose up to 2+ inches daily given the ambient temperature and wind alone.

The evaporation rate will vary depending on where you live as you can see in this map that shows annual evaporation rates in inches. In areas that have a cool/cold winter, the evaporation is mostly in the summer so you roughly double the rate as shown. So say that this is 50″ per year on the map so double that for 100″, divide by 365 and you get 0.27″ per day. This is about what you are seeing and is probably normal. (Reference from ChemGeek)

• Avoiding the pitfalls of vanishing-edge pool construction
• WIKI Answers: How Much Water Evaporates From A Pool?

Cannon Ball Effect

This is a common problem in the Summer months that occurs when 1 or more of these factors are present:

• Bather load exceeds more than 2 people
• Adult beverages are offered to guests at party
• Your inner child kicks in to remember the good ‘ol days
• When “cooling off” is no longer condition of swimming
• Surrounding Plants around pool require water

Testing, Testing Anyone Out There?

Welcome to 2012, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Thank you for your comments and feedback this past year.  In an effort to keep our readers inspired and entertained I’m looking for your feed back on what subject matter sparks YOUR interest.  Although our primary focus is related to Pool and Spa Maintenance (RedSquarePools.com) and Interior Design (RedSquareID.com) I’m always finding some kind of rabbit trail that intrigues me ….and hopefully you as well.   It would be greatly appreciated if you could take a few seconds to fill out the POLL below.

Subscribe to the Web Urbanist BLOG

One blog I highly recommend is called the “Web Urbanist”.  They blog daily on the creative and extraordinary design from all over the world.  Content is always relevant and it has sparked many ideas for our product designs.  Looking for a honey pot of whimsy, give this blog a read for a week…you’ll be hooked too!

http://weburbanist.com/

Vaughn Berger

RedSquarePools.com

RedSquareID.com

Las Vegas, NV

(702) 530-7331

Cloudy Water In Sydney Australia

On Dec 22, 2011, at 4:17 AM, jekloh wrote:

Hi Vaughn,
I am Jerry from Sydney and asked for help with the valves that was leaking. With the knowledge I got from your articles I have temporarily fixed the Valve problem. My next problem occurring now is that no matter how hard I try the pool water is always cloudy. After all the hard work I put in to cleaning the pool , the water returning into the pool is cloudy. I think I might need to replace the spider gasket of my main jandy valve and was wondering if it is the culprit for this cloudy water in my pool. I have used all the different chemicals to help clear the water but somehow little dirt particles keep coming back through the filter.

Jerry,

Great to hear from you again. Cloudy (or “turbid”) water can be the result of improper water chemistry, particulates in the water, dirty filters, poor circulation, old water, etc. Consider the following steps in eliminating your problematic cloudy water.

1. REPLACE YOUR WATER. If water is over 3-4 years old, pump out old water and refill with new water. Water that is chemically treated over several years has increased levels of TDS (total dissolved solids). TDS is the waste byproducts of chemicals in your pool. If TDS levels are high, water becomes unresponsive to weekly chemical regimen. Pool owners typically try to compensate for this lack of response by adding MORE chemicals thereby adding to the overall problem. Test strips are available to determine levels of TDS.

2. TEST WATER CHEMISTRY. Kits come in two forms: tester strips or vile/chemical kits. Once you’ve confirmed your water is balanced, proceed to next step.

3. CLEAN FILTRATION SYSTEM. Dirty filters are the biggest culprit when the water is cloudy. Filters should be cleaned or back washed every 2-4 months depending on the environmental conditions in your area. Wind, rain, pollen, bather waste, etc. all contribute to cloudy water. If you have a DE filter consider dismantling to confirm ribs in filters are intact (not broken or filter fabric not torn). Hose all filters clean and add additional DE if applicable. .

4. POOR CIRCULATION. Inspect your equipment for leaks and drips. If equipment is not water tight this can contribute to poor circulation and improper filtration. Identify problem areas and have repairs made immediately by a pool professional. Confirm that your psi readings are favorable based on your filter manufactures recommendations. Old seals, orings and gaskets (I.e. spider gasket) should always be replaced and properly lubricated to preserve integrity of rubber. Telltale signs for gasket replacement are leaks and drips.

5. WATER CLARIFIER. If particles remain in your pool due to excessive wind and debris in air, try using a water clarifier. This water additive essentially bonds dirt and debris in water making it far easier for your pool filter to trap.

Hope these pointers assist you in your questions regarding the cloudy conditions of your pool water. MERRY CHRISTMAS and safe swimming in the NEW YEAR!

Sincerely,

Vaughn Berger
Red Square Pools
Las Vegas, Nevada USA
Vaughn@redsquarepools.com

From: “jekloh”
Date: December 22, 2011 7:31:39 PM PST
To: “‘Vaughn Berger’”
Subject: RE: Jerry from Sydney Australia about cloudy pool water

Good Morning Vaughn
Thank you for your prompt and detailed reply

I have tried all that you have suggested and to no avail I have changed the pool water and have also changed the sand in the filter.

Have had the ph checked regularly and have added water clarifier as well but so far no satisfaction. In the mornings the pool looks clear but as soon as I startup the pump it goes milky white.

I have not replaced the spider gasket before and it does look like it needs replacing so Vaughn do you sell spider gasket for a Sta- Rite Multiport Valve

http://www.pentairpool.com/pdfs/Sta-RiteMultiPortFilterValveOM.pdf

Thanks

 

On Dec 23, 2011, at 7:15 AM, Vaughn Berger wrote:

Jerry,

Try this method for testing your water.   See our blog entry:  Testing Your Pool Water Like The Professionals

This method will give you the most accurate results. Make sure to get a Taylor DPD Test Kit from your local pool store. I am beginning to think the test method you are currently using to determine water chemistry is the problem. Kits older than 1 year and/ or exposed to sun should be discarded and replaced. If you’re taking water to a pool store to get water tested, sample should be taken 18″ below pool surface and immediately taken for testing. Leave sample out of sun as this can affect test results.

Replacing a gasket will not address turbid water. However, if your gasket should need to be replaced we’d be happy to send you one. I would consider, however, calling your local pool stores first to source parts to avoid shipping charges from the USA.

Vaughn Berger
Red Square Pools
Las Vegas, NV

 

 

New Company Website Worth Checking Out

I went on a 40 day hiatus to develop our marketing plan for our other business line called Red Square Interior Design.  Red Square ID is branching into both exterior and interior finishes for floors, walls and counter-tops.

If your interested in solutions that DO NOT REQUIRE demolition, than consider our custom hand crafted finishes.   We’ve been applying these finishes for over 3 years and felt that the our capabilities for interior projects were shadowed by our DBA Red Square Pools…therefore the introduction of a new division we call Red Square Interior Design or Red Square ID.

If you are frustrated with the prospect of ripping up old substrate like tile or linoleum; hate the dust and debris that spreads throughout a construction process right before the holidays; or simply don’t think you want to invite a construction project into your home for an extended period of time….than Red Square ID may be able to offer some assistance.

Points To Consider

• Due to the revolutionary products, Red Square ID is able to pull a flexible concrete finish over any surface (concrete, wood, tile, linoleum, glass, steel) and create a finish that is not only beautiful, but resistant to freezing , heat and high pressure.
• Colors are never a challenge as we provide thousands of options to match your current decor.  Since each project is “hand-crafted” no two projects are ever alike creating a unique finish that will the talk of any visitor to your home or business.
• Since we never need to remove existing surfaces, there is little to no dust to permeate throughout a home or business.  Retail Business loves our solutions simply because we are able to apply surfaces during the evening hours, never interrupting business flow.
• Maintenance is simple because we eliminate the pores in traditional surfaces.  We offer products that you “mist” over our surfaces that remove dust, debris, oil, scuff marks, minerals, etc. and easily clean up with a damp mop.
• Surfaces that get wet are NO PROBLEM.  If your worried about surfaces that get wet (pool decks, kitchens, bathrooms) we can add an anti-skid additive to give the surface a smooth yet grained feel to eliminate the chances of a slip or fall.
• Construction time frames are normally 3-5 days depending on the size and complexity of a project.  This means we will not be joining you for Thanksgiving Turkey or the Christmas Ham..unless of course you ask us to stay!

Red Square Interior Designoffers the creative vision and technological expertise to propel your design imagination to new heights.  Create ambiance through innovative surface styles for floors, walls, driveways, counter-tops and pool decks.Unleash your inner artist with limitless creative freedom!  Check out our gallery on Facebook by clicking the FB icon below.

Thumbtack.com

Trying out another social network designed to assist small business in promoting more traffic and recognition in the stack rankings.  We’ve just joined today therefore verdict is still out on the overall return.  I will keep you all posted on the relevance of this “social network” to our company.

Best Regards,

Vaughn Berger

Pool & Spa Maintenance, Repairs and Restoration

Pool & Spa Maintenance, Repairs and Restoration

I’m Back to Blogging for Red Square Pools!

I’m back!  It’s been some time since my last blog entry.  During our sabbatical I’ve encountered more fresh experiences that I hope you all deem helpful and inspiring.  Thank you for the kind feedback and I promise to keep blogging about relevant topics that will assist in pool & spa maintenance…. with the occasional whimsy added to keep you all awake  !!

Best Regards,

Vaughn Berger