Author: Trey Collier

About Trey Collier

Grew up as a Military Brat. (Thanks Dad. Hats off to my Mom too as it took a special person to be married to someone in the military) Was a competitive swimmer in high school and in college. 11 years a Red Cross Volunteer, teaching kids & adults how to swim. ARC Water Safety Instructor and WSI Trainer, CPR Instructor/Trainer and Advance First Aid Instructor. Proud Dad of two beautiful girls.

Expert Help for Choosing the Perfect Filter Cartridge

Filter Cartridge Diagram

Do you need to replace the filter cartridge in your pool or spa? Knowing which replacement model to choose can be confusing. Use the easy step by step guide below to make sure that you choose the correct option!

  1. Measure the outside diameter of the end cap. Be sure to use exact measurement (+ or – 1/32″).
  2. Measure the existing cartridge length. The length is calculated from end cap to end cap and should be exact (+ or – 1/16″). Be sure to exclude any handles or extensions from this measurement.
  3. Measure the top inside diameter. Again, be sure to use exact measurements (+ or – 1/32″).
  4. Do the same with the bottom inside diameter.
  5. Note the name and model of the filter that the cartridge came out of.
  6. Next, you will have to identify the correct top and bottom type. These are the types that you will see. Note the one that most closely matches your filter cartridge.

Open Top/Bottom

Open Top/Bottom w/Gasket

Closed Top

Closed Top
w/ String Handle

Castle Top

Molded Cone
Handle

Semi-Circular
Handle

Open Bottom
w/ Male Slip Fitting

Open Bottom
w/ ThreadedFitting

With all of the information that you have now gathered, you are ready to call or visit your pool supply source with the knowledge needed to make an informed purchase!

Turn Your Pool Into A Party!

Looking for an inexpensive and fun way to add some excitement to your next pool party? Or maybe you just want to change up the pool for your family’s entertainment? Swimming pool lights are a great way to accomplish your goal! Check out the suggestions below to make sure that your next gathering is a colorful and creative blast!

  • Ocean Art Jellies – These Ocean Art Mini Jellies add light, as well as a whimsy charm, to your pool. The float freely around the pool and run on standard household (AA) batteries.
  • Underwater Pool Light Show and Fountain: The multi-purpose light will delight your guests. It floats, spins, sprays, and displays colors both on the surface and below.
  • Kool-Light-O-Scope LED Pool Light: Create a psychedelic swirl in your pool with this light. It will instantly turn a plain pool into a party! It works on both in ground and above ground pools and will leave you mesmerized.

Liquid Solar Blankets: The Maintence Free Heating Method

Liquid Solar Pool Cover
Ready to swim, but your pool still isn’t warm enough? Try a creative solution. Liquid solar blankets are a fun and functional alternative to traditional heating methods. They work by slowly admitting a liquid that traps heat and reduces evaporation. The best part? The liquid is non-toxic and invisible. It does not affect skin, clothes, or pool chemical balance. You won’t even notice that its there. Unlike a traditional solar blanket, it is in use WHILE you are using your pool. 100% safe and works 100% of the time? Can’t beat that!

Pool Floats to Entertain Kids ALL Summer

While most kids long for summer, it can also become monotonous very quickly. Doing the same time, day in and day out, can become dull after awhile. Even something as fun as a swimming pool loses its appeal over time if it remains the same. Give your child some excitement in the pool this summer with one of these amazing pool floats. Whether for one child or a party full, you can find something that will please. Click on the links below for more information on each great choice! Many more are available at BackyardcityPools.com. Happy summer!

Labyrinth Island Pool Float

Labyrinth Island Float

Swimming Pool SeeSaw Float

See Saw Float

Arcade Shooter Float

Arcade Shooter Pool Float

Boathouse Pool Floats

Water Wheel

Swimming Pool Water Wheel

No Public Pool This Summer? No Problem.

Above Ground Pool

Public swimming pools across the country are closing due to budget cuts and monetary deficits ( http://bit.ly/jQaRCN ). Because public pools can be costly to maintain due to the huge volume of swimmers, they are considered an unnecessary extravagance in many cities. This takes away a staple summer past-time from both kids and parents in the affected towns. If your local public pool has closed, bring the pool experience to your own home! Pool ownership is affordable and fun! Here are a few options that you can choose from:

  • In Ground Pools are available in many shapes and sizes. They offer a long-term solution for many families looking for an at-home swimming option. However, they are very costly to install and can represent an investment of $20,000+.
  • Traditional Above Ground Pools are available in a wide variety of sizes and are great for large families or if you have frequent visitors. They are much less expensive that in ground pools and are easy to maintain. You can usually have your pool set up in one or more days (compared to weeks or even months with an in ground pool).
  • Soft-sided Splash Pools are similar to traditional above ground pools, but more simple. You can have the pool set up and filling with water in around one hour. It does not require tools and can be easily stored when not in use. They are available in several sizes and depths.