Let’s be honest: everyone would love to have a pool in their backyards, but the thought of cleaning it isn’t fun. Some homeowners already have a great pool but barely use it because the effort required to keep that pool sparkling is so time consuming. This is why you should consider a self cleaning pool system.
This system is completely hands-free and keeps your pool in great shape. Your pool will always remain clean with zero effort on your part. Here’s everything you’ll want to know about self cleaning pool systems.
What Is a Self Cleaning Pool System?
A self cleaning pool system is a cleaning technology that automatically removes debris and dirt from a swimming pool. It’s also called an in-floor cleaning system or a smart pool. It uses cleaning heads situated strategically on the floor of the pool.
When the system gets activated, these cleaning heads pop up to circulate and filter the water, then pop back down when finished. A self-cleaning pool system is entirely unobtrusive: the popup cleaners are flush installed on the pool’s surface, so they don’t get in the way of your swimming.
How Does a Self Cleaning Pool System Work?
A self cleaning pool system has three main components: the cleaning heads, the debris drain or collection zone, and the debris canister. Each popup head contains a nozzle that pushes the water toward the drain or collection zone. The nozzles’ programming allows them to take turns, cleaning one section of the pool after another in sequence.
The debris is targeted at the drain installed on the pool’s deep end. It then finds its way up to the debris canister located on the swimming pool deck. Like the popup cleaners, the debris canister is installed to facilitate easy deck side removal. Once cleaning is complete, empty the canister, rinse out the filter, and pop it back in.
Depending on the size of your swimming pool, your self cleaning pool system may require 10 to 15 popup cleaners or more. The cleaners typically work from the shallow end towards the deep end, but you can configure each system to match your pool’s unique type and size.
Related: Pool Features to Consider During Installation or Remodel
How Effective Is a Self Cleaning Pool System?
When you watch a self cleaning pool system in action, you may wonder how good it is. It works quietly and needs no pipes or gadgets, so how effective are they? As with all technology, the proof is in the data.
First, a self cleaning pool system cleans 99% of your pool. You can install the popup cleaners in every pool section, including walls, steps, and benches. The result is a more thorough clean than with other pool cleaning methods.
Secondly, a self cleaning pool system uses up to 30% fewer chemicals to sanitize your pool. Rather than large amounts of chemicals, the system uses powerful water jets to direct the debris to the drain and circulate pool cleaning chemicals more evenly in the water.
Because a self-cleaning pool system circulates the water evenly, it can save you big money on energy costs. In fact, you can save up to 30% on your power bill with a self cleaning pool system. A well-circulated pool heats faster, gets rid of cold spots, and prevents excessive heat loss. This makes it great for spa features in your swimming pool, so you can enjoy the rejuvenation without spending a fortune on energy bills.
Advantages of a Self Cleaning Pool System
On top of these unbeatable perks, a self cleaning pool system has many more benefits, including:
1. A Clutter-Free Pool Area
A self cleaning pool system is invisible—everything is automatically operated and seamlessly built into your pool. There’s no need for hoses or equipment on your property.
2. Time-Saving
The less time you spend packing and unpacking pool cleaning equipment, the more time you have to enjoy your pool. This is especially important if you use your pool frequently, like during the summer when the pool may require daily cleaning.
3. Stain Prevention
Swimming pool stains are a direct result of dirt and debris that sit for too long in your pool. Even with regular cleaning, the tricky nooks and crannies in your pool are still prone to stains. A self cleaning pool system takes care of each surface in your pool to keep it looking spotless.
4. Cleaner, Safer Water
With fewer chemicals and better water circulation, your swimming pool automatically becomes a safer place to enjoy with your friends and family.
5. Lots of Available Color Options
You can get customized self cleaning pool systems to match your aesthetic. The popup cleaning heads and drainage system can coordinate with your pool floor or even have contrasting colors as an eye-catching feature.
Related: How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pool?
Drawbacks of a Self Cleaning Pool System
Initial Costs
Installing a self cleaning pool system can be pretty expensive. Depending on the size and shape of your pool, the system may cost upwards of $5,000. A self cleaning pool system is a significant investment for homeowners but definitely worth it in the long run.
A Pool Cover Should Be Used for Best Results
A self cleaning pool system typically works on the bottom of your pool, so any debris on the surface will require manual cleaning. A pool cover is a good workaround for this.
Difficult To Detect Faults
Because of its seamless and automated design, it can be hard to know if a self cleaning pool system malfunctions. If one popup cleaning head breaks down, the rest of the system may face challenges. To ensure this doesn’t become a problem for you, use a professional pool builder not only for a high-quality installation, but also for needed system maintenance.
Best for New Pools
You can have a self cleaning pool system installed in virtually any pool, but it works best for new swimming pools. Many homeowners who would like this system installed in their existing pool may need to do a complete renovation alongside it, which may drive up costs.
Self Cleaning Pool System vs. Other Pool Cleaning Options
There are several other ways of cleaning your swimming pool, but as you’ll see below, a self cleaning pool system beats each one.
a) Self Cleaning Vs. Manual Cleaning
While manual pool cleaning is the most affordable method, it takes a lot more time and effort if you do it yourself—and it’s an additional cost if you hire a professional pool cleaner. A self cleaning system saves you time, money, and energy.
b) Self Cleaning Vs. Robotic Cleaning
A robotic pool cleaner is a more hands-free option, but these devices still need to be inside the pool, moved around, and cleaned after use. With self cleaning, all you need is to empty the pool deck canister, which takes only a few minutes.
c) Self Cleaning Vs. Suction Cleaning
A suction pool cleaner is also an automated method that uses your pool pump to draw and filter out debris from your pool. However, these can be tricky to install and still require pipes and hoses to work. Self cleaning is inbuilt into your pool, so no extra equipment is necessary.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to get that dream swimming pool installed in your backyard, we highly recommend a self cleaning pool system. It will go a long way to maintain your pool and protect your investment. Choose experienced pool builders like California Pools to install your self cleaning pool system. We understand exactly how to customize your swimming pool to match your taste and budget.
Our process is simple: start with an on-site consultation with our design experts, visualize your dream swimming pool, get a realistic budget estimate and building timeline, and let us do the rest. Our many decades of service are our guarantee that your swimming pool project will be on time, on budget, and to your specifications. California Pools will transform your backyard into a spectacular space for the whole family. Get your quote today.
