New build feedback

[bslobodin]

Hey folks, am very new here. We're aiming to begin the dig this spring, but I was hoping to get some feedback on the proposed package from all of you.

16' x 32' Mountain Lake - Steel

• Installation (excavation & haulage, assembly, concrete for bottom & panels, back-fill with 3/4" clear stone)
• Steel Kit
• Duralum Coping - Grey (to hold liner)
• Full Print Liner - 30 Gauge
• Re-Circulation Kit - Grey
• In-ground Plumbing (2" suction / 1-1/2" returns)
• Jandy FloPro 1.65HP Variable Speed
• Jandy 24" Sand Filter
• Jandy FusionSoft Salt System
• Jandy Jxi260 - 260,000BTU Gas Heater
• 8ft Straight Thermoplastic Step - Grey
• 2 x LED Coloured Light
• Accessory Kit & Vacuum Assembly
• 2' 1/2" Standard Concrete Deck - Grey (All around Pool)

We're also tweaking the pour to add a concrete bull nose coping, and extra brushed concrete around the pool instead of interlock.

Any comments would be appreciated.

Thanks!

-Boris

 

[PoolGate]

Get Aqualink for automation. Get a cartridge filter, not sand. Get a 400k btu heater.

 

[bslobodin]

Get Aqualink for automation.

Is that something that can be retrofitted after the fact?

Get a cartridge filter, not sand.

In speaking with the builder they strongly recommended sand for its longevity and ease of use, e.g. with our dog backwashing the sand will be a much simpler maintenance task than a cartridge?

Get a 400k btu heater.

Why is 260 not enough?

Thank you!

 

[PoolGate]

Is that something that can be retrofitted after the fact?



In speaking with the builder they strongly recommended sand for its longevity and ease of use, e.g. with our dog backwashing the sand will be a much simpler maintenance task than a cartridge?



Why is 260 not enough?

Thank you!

I am surprised with that list that your builder has not included iAqualink. It can be retrofitted but with significant additional expense. If you get it now, for instance, the SWG power supply will integrate into the Aqualink box. Not sure how he expects you to manage your pool without one. For instance, to change colors without automation, you go to the switch and turn it on and off until the color you want comes up. I almost want to say leaving Aqualink out was purely an oversight. I cannot imagine that system without it.

Filters are a matter of preference really. I have used both and I strongly prefer a cartridge filter. I clean my cartridges really just once a season. Cartridges typically last about 3-4 seasons. Cost is about $150 for a set of 4. Sand filters have to be backwashed frequently and they also have more complex plumbing. Not to mention you have to have a place to let the backwash run out. Many builders will tell you your water will be clearer with a sand filter which is simply not true. Your filter acts only as a storage location for particulate matter removed from the water column Water clarity is achieved by a properly balanced pool.

Heater cost to go up to 400k btu is negligible but will heat your water much faster. Bigger is better.

Also skip the vacuum and the hookup for it and get yourself a robot. How many skimmers are you getting? Should be 2. How many returns? I'd want 3-4.

What is "Re-Circulation Kit - Grey"?

That SWG is very good I have one, but do not install or let your builder install the mineral cartridge. It is not recommended or needed for the pool. Just take the cartridge when you see it in the pile of stuff and make sure he doesn't take away the blankout plate that will come in the SWG vessel. They are hard to come by.