First time pool build

[Novaks]

Hello, we are nearing the final stages of our pool planning process and would love any input or suggestions about design, mechanics and process. This will be our first pool build, our goal is to build and not look back and say ‘I wish we had done x’ over too many things. We are in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex

!4’ x 35’ Pool (most of depth at 5’)
7’ roll kneck 18” raised spa (drawing shows 6, it needs updating)
14,000 gallons
Gunite, pebble finish
3/8 Steel 10” oc with alternates
Leuders coping
Salt finish Concrete
Pavillion (roofed structure) with stub outs for electric, gas, water and coax


Pentair 420 Clean and Clear Pool Filter,
Pentair VS Pool Pump,
Dolphin S200 pool cleaner or the Dolphin Nautilus CC
Easy 8 Screen Logic Control System,
2 Pentair Intellibrite LED Color Pool Lights and Spa Light,
Pentair Master Temp 400k BTU Heater,
1hp Spa Blower


We are also wondering about what smart landscaping materials for between the pool and back fence. We vacillate between rock, mulch and wonder if there is a better alternative.

 

[ajw22]

Welcome to TFP.

• Pentair 420 Clean and Clear Pool Filter - good
• Pentair VS Pool Pump - What model number? Get VSF 011056
• Dolphin S200 pool cleaner or the Dolphin Nautilus CC - good
• Easy 8 Screen Logic Control System - Consider the IntelliCenter. ET8 is the past model.
• 2 Pentair Intellibrite LED Color Pool Lights and Spa Light - Read Pentair LED Pool Lights - Further Reading
• Pentair Master Temp 400k BTU Heater - good
• 1hp Spa Blower - good

How are you going to chlorinate your pool?

How to Chlorinate Your Pool

Before chlorinating your pool, you should know these simple tips. Learn the best way to add chlorine to your pool.

www.troublefreepool.com

Construction Best Practices - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Novaks]

Thank you for your response Allen. I really appreciate it. We haven't reached the itemized list yet, so I am unsure of the specific model numbers, I will be looking for 011056. I was just reading a review on the intellicenter and was realizing how much more complex this all is than the system my parents had when we were growing up. It was just turn the pump on, turn the heater on, switch the valves when you vacuum no tech system. We do not plan on a salt chlorinator, so I think that means looking at the rainbow system? We used to just manually add chemicals based on test results. If that is still a thing, thats what I would do. Honestly I was hoping my husband would be in charge of the mechanics and chemicals but he is overwhelmed with work, so Im just starting to dig in. I'll be reading up on the Pentair Lights. The Best Construction practices has been really helpful so far. My poor pool builder said that in 20 years they had never been asked all of the questions I had based on it.

 

[ajw22]

Using TriChlor in the Rainbow chlorinator is not a viable long term way of maintaining chlorine in your pool, especially in Texas. Your CYA will increase with every tablet used and within a few months get to an unmanageable level. You will then need to drain your water to lower your CYA. Rinse and repeat.

Many folks try the TriChlor method and end up installing a SWG afterwards. We try and save you going through the learning process.

You don't need a pool automation system any more then you need a cell phone. You can trudge out to your pool equipment pad and turn a few valves and adjust the heater before and after you want to use the pool and spa. Your whole family can still share one Princess phone in the house on a long cord.

 

[Novaks]

Using TriChlor in the Rainbow chlorinator is not a viable long term way of maintaining chlorine in your pool, especially in Texas. Your CYA will increase with every tablet used and within a few months get to an unmanageable level. You will then need to drain your water to lower your CYA. Rinse and repeat.

Many folks try the TriChlor method and end up installing a SWG afterwards. We try and save you going through the learning process.

You don't need a pool automation system any more then you need a cell phone. You can trudge out to your pool equipment pad and turn a few valves and adjust the heater before and after you want to use the pool and spa. Your whole family can still share one Princess phone in the house on a long cord.

That is a great analogy! Totally made me laugh. My husband is a techie guy, he is definitely going to want automation. Will do more thinking on the SWG based on your insights.

 

[ajw22]

Read...

Salt Water Chlorine Generators

Salt Water Generators are designed to produce small amounts of chlorine continuously. This is perfect for day to day use and reduces work for the homeowner.

www.troublefreepool.com