Miami Beach, Fla.-With a new law mandating energy efficiency standards in Florida swimming pools a year away, Dade County has already become a model of pool efficiency thanks to the efforts of a handful of passionate, local pool professionals.

“Miami Beach is really ahead of the curve,” said Jeff Farlow, manager of energy efficient initiatives for Pentair Water Pool & Spa, Inc. and a founding member of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals Energy Efficiency Committee. “They’ve recognized that there is a less expensive and more environmentally friendly way to own a pool, and they’re embracing that.”

All Florida Pool and Spa Center in North Miami is leading the trend as one of the nation’s top sellers of a new variable speed pool pump that uses hybrid car technology to cut energy use by up to 90 percent. “Most Florida residents don’t realize that under the new law you won’t be able to purchase those inefficient single-speed filtration pumps starting in July 2011,” said Bill Parrish, service manager from All Florida Pool and Spa center, referring to a section of the 2008 Florida Energy Bill (House Bill 7135) that requires that all new residential pool filter pump(s and) motors rated at 1 horsepower and greater sold in Florida after July 1, 2011 must be capable of operating at two or more speeds.

“Why would you want to invest in a technology that is so inefficient that the state is effectively banning it? And what if that new single-speed pump breaks in two years? Do you want to roll the dice on whether you’re even allowed to fix it? That seems like a pretty big risk for a product that will cost you a lot more in the long run.”

The Natural Resources Defense Council estimates that Florida home owners can save an average of $880.00 a year by upgrading their pool equipment, roughly equal to the utility savings a Florida home owner can expect by purchasing an Energy Star-labeled home.  Pentair, manufacturer of the equipment Parrish recommends to his customers, estimates that replacing a conventional pump with its IntelliFlo variable speed pump will deliver savings of up to $2,121.00 by itself. The company says other potential efficiency improvements are available with LED pool lights, digital automation systems, high-efficiency heaters and heat pumps.

“Considering that the electricity savings from one of the new pumps will quickly pay for the investment, going green becomes an easy decision,” Parrish said. “If you need to replace a pool pump this year, the combination of energy cost savings and the new law make it incredibly hard to justify purchasing a single-speed pump.”

He explained that while the law does allow the installation of two-speed pool pumps, the savings available from premium variable speed pumps such as the IntelliFlo pump also make two-speed pumps a poor investment. Parrish said that this has been proven this with hundreds of customers. Some recent examples include:

• Science teacher Margi Newman reports that her electric bills have been reduced by an average of $77.00 per month, or $924.00 a year, since installing the pump, not including a historically cold January. “As a science teacher, I’m constantly telling my students to understand how important it is to conserve resources. This was a teachable moment for me.”

• In the four months prior to installing a variable speed pump, John Izzo’s electric bills were an average of $495.00 per month. Since installing the pump in May 2009, he has not had an electric bill of more than $357.00. The savings from that investment inspired Izzo to investigate further efficiency improvements this winter; including a new air conditioner.

• Mechanical engineer Howard Goldberg was so skeptical of the savings Parrish promised that he looked up the patent on the equipment to verify its technical claims. Since installing a variable speed pump and LED pool lights in July 2009, Goldberg’s electric bills have been reduced by an average of $75.00 per month. “This will pay for itself in 12 to 18 months. I’ve even talked my neighbor into getting a new pump.”

• In March, plumber Mike Pleasant received his lowest electric bill in 10 years. In the three months since installing the IntelliFlo pump his bills have fallen from $400.00 per month to $236.00, $238.00 and $212.00. “It’s opened my eyes and motivated me to do things differently in my business,” said Pleasant, principal of Papa’s Plumbing. “I used to tell my customers that ‘green’ equipment such as tank less water heaters weren’t worth the money. Now I recommend them.”

Did You Know?

Miami Beach pool owners are investing in technology to make their new pools more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

• State standards for pool equipment energy efficiency will go into effect  July 1, 2011, effectively banning the sale and repair of certain pool pumps  and heaters in Florida.
• Upgrading pool equipment can save more money than building a home to Energy Star standards.
• One of the IntelliFlo pumps has an optional built in Safety Vacuum Release system ( SVRS) that senses drain blockage and automatically  shuts off the pump in seconds to provide an important layer of protection against entrapment.
• UM and FPL agree that this pump does save the homeowner money.

For additional information visit www.pentairpool.com or www.allfloridapool.com

It is 2010; new technology’s has been making our lives easier and faster in almost all facets of our daily lives. Our cars talk to us, telling us how to get to our destination, our television remotes, allow us to turn channels without getting up out of our comfortable recliner, our cell phones instant communicators voice or text basically our mini computers with internet access. This new technology has also satisfied our desires for immediate satisfaction as it relates to our backyard cement pond, our backyard refuge from the day-to-day grind.

There are several manufactures of automation equipment in the market and they each have the ability to control your pool’s functions. It will control the pool pump allowing it to operate the required hours in the day. It will also control all the other functions of the pool the like the temperature, the pool lights, the spa lights, the chlorine salt generator, the motorized valves for the spa, and the landscape lights. Basically you can control all the pool / spa functions ever you want, provided the controller is sized properly, at the touch of a button.

You can eliminate the following nightmare; it’s dark outside, all you want to do is unwind from the day. You decide to enjoy your hot tub for a while, let the warm water relax you then perhaps cool down in the pool.  But first you have to find a flashlight to walk in the dark to find your pool equipment. Once your there you have to remember which valves you need to turn to isolate the hot tub, turn on the pump at the mechanical time clock, turn on the lights in the spa, and turn on the heater. Now you have to go back inside and wait for the water temperature to rise to your preferred temperature. After several trips to stick your hand in the water to see, ’Is it ready yet’, you get tired of waiting and decide to forget the whole thing.

Since the pool is not automated, many wrong things could have happened. Here is an example: Turn the wrong valves and you drained the spa into the pool, once the spa drained completely the pump motor runs dry – possibly damaging the pump seals then allowing water to enter into the bearings and causing a near future replacement. This scenario can only get worse- if the flow switch in the heater fails -the heater will continue to run without water.  This can cause a melt down /fire in your gas heater.

This is what CAN happen.

Had a great day at work, going out to dinner with the family and decide to get in the hot tub when we get home.  This is what we do… Dial up the pool using the cell phone- via several of the apps available.  Go to spa mode and set the temperature to what ever you want and enjoy your evening. Simple.

Or

You can preset the pool to go to spa mode at 8:30pm and have the heater come on and have the temperature go to 100 degrees. Turn on the pool lights, the spa lights and the match the landscape light to create your own paradise. Pull into your driveway, get changed and enjoy the rest of the evening in your spa.

This technology, with the right options, allows you to monitor your yard over your I Phone thousands of miles away. Plus there are other modules available that allows the pool equipment to sync with other home automation devices.

In the beginning stages of trying to decide what is best for you; simply write down on a piece of paper all the functions you want or have to control.

Ex. Pump, Heater, lights, landscape lights, blower, fountains or any other electrical powered device.

Then how you want to control it.

Wireless, control panel inside your home, a spa side remote, I Phone capable.

With this information All Florida Pool and Spa Center can design the system that best fulfill your needs.

Chlorine: Unlike Europe, In the US chlorine has traditionally been, and is, the mainstay swimming pool sanitizer. However, credible research suggests that chlorine may have health issues when used in standard recommended quantities as a swimming pool sanitizer.

Chlorine combines with organic load created by human use (sweat, etc.) of the pool and the environment (pollens, airborne debris, etc.) resulting in ( off gassing)Chloramines and Trihalomethanes. In this state Chlorine is not able the properly sanitize the pool and kill bacteria and algae’s.

Salt Chlorine Generators:  A salt chlorine generator is based on electrolysis process which sodium chloride (salt) is converted to sodium chlorine by passing across metal plates enclosed in a chamber (salt cell) which is installed in-line on swimming pool plumbing. These metal plates are energized by a low electrical current, which causes electrolysis process of ion exchange of chloride o chlorine. In most systems you can regulate the amount of current to the cell, which is also regulating the output of chlorine to the pool.  Example- 20% in the winter to 100% in the summer months with a heavy bather load.

Ionizers: This process is based on using antibacterial metals such as copper and silver. This process will reduce overall chlorine usage due to the metals performing some of the organic workload. The down side to Ionizers is that this process of using metals often times result in staining of pool surfaces.

Ozone Generators: Ozone technology for swimming pools has been in regular use for over 50 years in places like France, Germany, and other European nations as they realize the consequences of chlorine gas or chloramines off-gassing.

Ozone has also been in use in Europe since the 1890’s for drinking water purification. Some large cities in the United States such as Los Angeles and Milwaukee now boast the best drinking water in America since they began using ozone as a purification method.

Ozone destroys viruses and bacteria such as e-coli and legionaries, and others.

Ozone is over one thousand times faster acting and 55 times more powerful than chlorine at oxidizing and destroying bather load in swimming pools. This drastically reduces chlorine requirements.

There are many advantages of using ozone in swimming pools or spas. Some are:

• Decrease chemical usage- significant savings considering the cost of chlorine and other chemicals.
• Better water clarity
• Reduction or total elimination of chloramines
• Reduction or total elimination of odors
• Smother water feel
• No red itching eyes normally caused by chloramines
• Very effective at destroying viruses and organisms
• PH neutral

Ozone is a gas which consists of three oxygen atoms and is referred to as O3. Ozone has a very short life cycle, around 20 minute half-life, and must be produced on site at the pool location.  Ozone is created by a process where O2 molecules are split in to two O1 atoms and the loosely forms an O3 molecule.

The loosely bonded O1 departs the O3 and attaches to any organic which results in oxidation of the organic (basically very rapidly disrupts the DNA/RNA structures). The O2 is released as O2 and the -contaminate oxidized by the O1 is destroyed.

Ozone gas is introduced into water via a venturi injector creating a vacuum to suck the ozone gas into the water.

This simple and effective process makes the water feel smooth and silky.  Plus, it can make Salt chlorine systems more efficient.  It can greatly increase the life of the cell as the output can be reduced dramatically.  Let us at All Florida Pool and Spa Center show you how to make your water healthy.

So I have to ask,’ what’s the point of having a pool if it’s too cold to use it?’  There are many ways to heat a pool and or spa; here is what you need to know.

There are 3 common ways to heat a body of water.

1. Electrical resistance
2. Gas (propane or natural)
3. Heat pumps

Electrical Resistance- This type of heating uses electrical current thru a heating element, commonly used in spas or small bodies of water, this type of heating usually takes the longest but will heat up regardless of outside air temperature.  Not recommended for pools, as the electrical consumption is great and you will see a spike in your electric bill.

Gas (propane or natural) – This type of heating uses fossil fuel ( gas or propane) and heats the water by having the flames go over a copper fin heat exchanger. This type of heating is by far the fastest form of heating but also the most expensive.  This is due to the fact the gas heaters are not the most efficient.  Example:  For every dollars worth of gas you spend, your only receiving .80 to .87 cents worth of heat . Even with the most efficient blower fed gas heaters your still not getting .90 cents worth of heat.

Heat Pumps- This type of heating uses the similar technology as of your air conditioning for your home. To over simplify how this works.. You start with refrigerant – which is very cold. It then passes thru an evaporator that gets air sucked thru it via a fan, then the refrigerant goes to a compressor-, which compresses the liquid into a gas and super heats.  It then passes thru a heat exchanger, which then transfers the heat to the water,  and transforms the gas back into a liquid and start the process all over again. This process uses electricity and it’s efficiency is rated as C.O.P. (coeffient of performance) . This means for every dollar of electricity you use, your return is about $6. , worth of heat. This is a very efficient way to heat your pool.

At All Florida Pool and Spa Center, we can provide the best heating solution for your heating requirements.

Having a spa in your families life can change the way you live everyday. You will make time to relax, communicate with you kids or loved one and heal your body. There are many different sizes, shapes and styles to choose. When shopping for any type of aquatic unit for a spa, hot tub, jacuzzi, portable spa, swimming pool, swim spa or aquatic fitness system, find the one that meets all of your wants and needs, and not just by price.

What is a SPA?

By the late 1930s, more than 2,000 hot- or cold-springs health resorts were operating in the United States. This number had diminished greatly by the 1950s and continued to decline in the following two decades. In recent past, spas in the U.S. emphasized dietary, exercise, or recreational programs more than traditional bathing activities.

Up until recently, the public bathing industry in the U.S. remained stagnant, nevertheless, in Europe, therapeutic baths have always been very popular, and remain so today. The same is true in Japan, where the traditional hot springs baths, known as onsen, always attracted plenty of visitors. (Wikipedia)

People have often use common names for these units like Jacuzzi, hot tub, therapy spa, hot spring, which is similar to Kleenex® and Xerox®. There are hundreds of brand name spas to choose, Jacuzzi, Hot Springs, Sundance, Marquis, Cal Spa, Master Spa, Nordic, Sundance, Coast, Artesian, Spa-In-A-Box and Dimension One Spas.

All spas range in price from $895 to $19,995, but it depends on the size, style and features that you may desire. So whether the spa costs $2,000 to $20,000, if it is not the right one for you, will you buy it? No.

1. Be sure to sit in the spa and make sure that it is comfortable.
2. Make sure it can accommodate your immediate family with enough “FOOT ROOM”.
3. Make sure that you understand the water management system to keep the water clean.

Many people misunderstand water management as an OZONATOR. There are many brands of ozonators, Prozone, Corona Discharge, Delzone and others. This unit is to designed to help “purify” the water and reduce, not eliminate the use of chemicals. One the keys to help the ozonator work effectively are having an off gassing contact chamber that will mix with the water. This will help to purify the water and break down that unwanted bacteria that can build up in the spa. The ozone gas needs to remain in the contact chamber for over twenty five seconds to be truly effective.

There are THREE important elements when you have your own personal spa. Having a spa stereo, fiber optic lights, television are all nice accessories, but what do you really desire when you visit your spa?

1. Water should be CLEAN
2. Water should NOT smell
3. Water should be at the right TEMPERATURE.

If you had dirty, stinky water and it was cold, would you be happy? However, you have a stereo, lights and a television. Which outcome will be a better experience? If you choose a good one, you will have a good experience. If you choose a cheap or poorly designed one, you will have a poor experience.

What is a SWIM SPA?

This has been one the hottest additions to the pool and spa industry over the past ten years. At home, Aquatic Therapy is one of the most desired features for a home in the future for longer life and health. Swim spas have entered the market with many different names, such as Lap Pool, Current Pool, H2X, Power Pool, Hydro Pool, Exercise Pool, Endless Pool and Aquatic Fitness System. When selecting a swim spa, consider what type of work out that you plan to have in the unit. You may want to swim, train, stretch, row, or use an underwater treadmill to obtain a full aquatic workout. Make sure that the frame structure can handle all of pounding associated with a vigorous workout. The swim TEHTER is the key to a full swimming workout in the water. Without a swim tether, you will move from SIDE to SIDE in the water and may not be in control. In addition, check the size of the SWIM LANE to make sure that you have enough room from front to back. (Reach your hands over your head and see how tall you are. If a swim lane is only NINE FEET, it is not long enough for the average swimmer)

Insulation in a Spa or Swim Spa –

There have been many debates on the best insulation type in a spa, hot tub or swim spa. It is very simple; engineers will validate the fact that “VIBRATION CAUSES FAILURE”. There are nearly three hundred feet of hosing inside the average spa. If the water is passing through these pipes at a high velocity, the hoses will be shaking if FULL FOAM does not stabilize them. Although many will state that a Non-Full Foam spa is easier to fix, it is also guaranteed to fail.

A spa has not been made to perform as a window to trap dead air space as an insulator. Full foam will always out perform any other type of insulation; we use it in coolers, thermos and the walls of our home. If you want to reduce NOISE, Energy Bills and lower the potential for failure, find a spa with full foam.

The cover will also be a determining factor with your energy bills. A cover that seals to the shell and seals at the seam will provide you with a great lid. The foam inside the cover can range from 2 ¼” to 5” thick, but the density of the foam will offer the most strength. A steel support along the seam will also add strength to the cover to prevent a collapse in the center. A swim spa cover is going to more of a challenge to operate and it should be clear how you would remove it to workout. Check into an EZ Lift unit to make either unit more enjoyable to enter.

Benefits of Aquatic Therapy with a Spa or Swim Spa –

There are many medical studies currently under review to examine all of the benefits of Hydrotherapy. If you suffer from Type 2 Diabetes, Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Rehumetory Arthritis, Sleep Disorders, Back or Knee Pain, a spa or swim spas could offer you fantastic in-home health care. It is always advised to consult your physician before using a spa, hot tub or swim spa. These units can be a life improvement to your family not matter what may be your condition including MENTALL WELLNESS and RELAXATION. Medical tax deductions may also be available with a doctor’s prescription but you will also need to consult your tax consultant.

Call it by any name that you want, but please review our full line of aquatic products to fit your family’s needs. Our expert aquatic consultants can help you find the best match for your and your family.

It’s time to think about renovation but where should we start the process. Here are some ideas to think about.

• Begin to gather ideas about how you would like your backyard to look, keep in mind the pool, deck and landscaping.
• Research the prospective contractors carefully, ask for references, insurance data and licensing information. Can they apply for and obtain permits if required?
• Ask contractors for their recommendations.
• Ask contractors if they have 3D software to show what the renovated pool might look like.

Here are some other ideas to consider:

• Is it time to change the surface or deck material? Many older pools have plain or color textured cement textures, is it possible to recover the existing deck? Do you want to enlarge to deck area? Local codes and regulations may dictate how large and where a deck surface can be installed. Check with your contractor and local building departments first.
• What type of condition is the waterline tile and border coping in? Is it time to change these items? Now is the time to think about these items. Today’s tile selections are numerous and the coping can be matched to the deck material very often.
• Will the pool / spa need to be resurfaced? Exposed aggregate materials are very popular today and provide a very durable surface for many years of use. Many colors are available, research what brand and options would be best for your application.
• What condition is your pool equipment in? Is it time to replace your pump and filter? Proper filtration is key to keeping your renovated pool / spa in excellent working condition. Check your control valves; older style gate valves and ball valves should be replaced with one of the many styles of 2 and 3 way valves available on the market today.
• Should you replace your standard white incandescent pool light with a new LED automatic color changing light (also available for spas)? Now is the time to consider this very popular item being installed in many new pools and spas today.
• Salt generators are certainly one of the most popular pieces of equipment available for swimming pools today. By simply adding a small amount of salt to your pool, the chlorine generator will create the sanitizer required for any swimming pool and or spa. Research the many models available today.
• Don’t forget to think about a heater for your pool. Why swim in a cold pool? Now is the time to add a gas or electric heat pump.
• How about tile mosaics for your pool? Now is the time to “jazz up” your pool using some of the many mosaics available on the market today.
• Don’t forget to check your pool and spa plumbing. Now is the time to add lines, change skimmers and add drains if necessary.
• Many water features are also available to today’s pools. Waterfalls, deck jets and rock waterfalls are a great addition to any pool or spa.

Don’t forget to have a new test kit available for use once the pool has been refilled with water. Proper water testing is essential to maintaining your renovated pool. Follow these steps, do your research and enjoy your new renovated backyard paradise.