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.

Innovative Solutions, Pool and Spa Equipment

Heating Your Pool in Tough Economic Times

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People come up with unique solutions to all of their problems when the economy is bad. Many two car families have started car pooling and eliminated the payment and gas for a second car. Most people are eating out less often and almost everyone has stopped impulse shopping. One of the wildest stories to come out of the recession comes from the city of Redditch in Britain. Sharp spending cuts have forced the city to consider alternate ways to heat their community swimming pool. Their solution? Diverting waste heat from the local crematory to the next door leisure center, where the pool is located! It’s a very innovative solution, to say the least!

Fortunately, you don’t have to rely on a crematorium to save you money when heating your pool. Pool heaters are more affordable than ever before. Whether you choose gas, propane, heat pumps, or solar, you will be able to find a money saving option that will allow your family to swim earlier in the beginning of the season and longer at the end of the season. You can maintain the perfect water temperature no matter what season.

Source: Burns, John F. “Britain: Crematory to Heat Swimming Pool.” The New York Times Online. 9 Feb. 2011. Web. 15 April 2011.

Innovative Solutions, Pool and Spa Safety

Protect Your Pets and Other Critters From Accidental Drowning

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Protecting your children in your family pool is a given! Every parent knows the importance of protecting your loved ones, but have you considered protecting small creatures that may wander into your pool? Small animals such as cats, dogs, frogs, squirrels, and rodents can often find their way into your pool water. In the U.S. alone, over 50,000 family pets drown needlessly in swimming pools and walled lakes each year . This number does not even include non-pet drownings. There are tools available to help prevent this sad occurrence. In addition to the humane act of sparing the small animals’ lives, you minimize bacteria from animal waste because they will be safe and sound on your pool deck instead of being trapped in your pool skimmer. The Pool Critter Escape Ramp is a floating ramp with a weighted pillow that sits on your pool deck. When small animals fall into your water, they will instinctively swim to the sides of the pool looking for a way out. When they encounter the escape ramp, they can crawl out on their own. The Skamper-Ramp works in a similar way. It is constructed of blowmolded polyethylene that is both light and sturdy. It is also chemical and weather resistant to offer protection over many seasons! Both choices are affordable and almost effortless to install!

Pool and Spa Maintenance, Pool Opening

Repair and Replace Pool Surfaces This Spring!

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Pool Surface
Now is the time to spruce up your pool before summer fun begins. If your concrete,  plaster, gunite, or fiberglass pool has chipping or peeling paint, you might want to consider repainting it. Pool paint is more affordable and easier to use than ever before. Most pool paints last up to 8 years and can be applied without the help of a pool professional, saving you lots of money. If you have a liner pool, check your liner for fading and discoloration. Due to long exposure to chemicals and sunlight, vinyl liners can eventually become weakened and worn. Spring is a perfect time to consider replacement. Even if your pool surfaces are intact, they will certainly need to be cleaned to prepare for summer swimming. Check your pool maintenance equipment, including leaf skimmers, wall brushes, and vacuums, for any deterioration that could have occurred during the fall and winter months. These items are usually on sale at the beginning of pool seasons so now is the perfect time to replace any worn or outdated equipment. With some needed spring maintenance on your pool, you will ensure beautiful pool surfaces for years to come.

Hot Tubs and Saunas

The Amazing Health Benefits of Saunas

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Four Person Sauna
Saunas are often a major draw of sports clubs and gyms across the world. These high heat steam rooms have long been heralded for their ability to ease post-work out aches and pains, but did you know that they also offer many other health benefits? They are so numerous that you will long to enjoy the therapeutic benefits. You don’t have to join a gym to enjoy infrared saunas. In fact, you don’t even have to leave your own home! At-home saunas are more affordable than ever and the price will be small compared to the benefits you receive. Saunas have been proven to relieve the following symptoms:

  • Aches, Pains, and Tension
  • Asthma, Bronchitis, and Other Breathing Problems
  • Arthritis and Rheumatism
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Bruises and Burns
  • Sports Injuries
  • Common Cold and Influenza
  • Migraine Headaches

Saunas also use high heat to help your body release harmful toxins. Some studies have shown that releasing these toxins aides in relieving depression, digestive disorders, high cholesterol, acne, and even heart disease. You also burn up to 600 calories per thirty minute session while relaxing away stress making saunas a great weight loss tool. Home saunas make all of these benefits available to you anytime, day or night!

Hot Tubs and Saunas, Pool and Spa Equipment, Pool and Spa Safety

Spa Accessories Every Hot Tub Owner Needs

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Spa Side Umbrella
Hot tubs and outdoor spas offer an exciting way to relax and unwind at your own home. They are great for soothing stressed muscles and aching joints and will simply melt away stress. If you are already the proud owner of an at home hot tub, there are several accessories that are must haves to make your experience the most enjoyable one possible.

  • Create a beautiful shade on your hot tub time with a spa side umbrella. The base slides conveniently under your spa and hugs the sides, creating a seamlessly beautiful silhouette. The 9 foot hexagon umbrella is made of colorfast, fade resistant material that will last many years. A built-in crank allows you to open and close the umbrella with ease. You will love enjoying your spa any time of day with the shade of your umbrella creating comfort.
  • Spa and hot tub covers not only keep leaves and other debris out of your hot tub, they also help keep heat and chemicals in and offer safety to help prevent accidents. As heat is released into the air, your spa’s chemicals evaporate with it. This will lead to increased costs to operate your spa over time. Using a cover prevents this heat and chemical loss. They are easy to put on and remove. Walk on covers are strong enough to support an e ntire family (or up to three feet of snow) without collapsing! Available in many colors and sizes, you are sure to find exactly what you are looking for.
  • Having a safe way to enter and exit your spa or hot tub is essential. Deluxe Spa Steps are designed for this purpose! They are made from a rugged polymer that is lightweight, but very durable, supporting up to 300 pounds! The non-skid surface and 14″ height ensure easy access for everyone. The beautiful redwood color will add a touch of style to your spa. They are availa ble in 36 or 74 inch widths.