Postby carusoswi » Sun 28 May, 2006 18:02
Way back when, the only way to keep a pool clean was to vacuum the bottom with a vacuum head connected to a long pole that you had to slowly run across the entire bottom surface of the pool. Today, we have automatic pool cleaners that can constantly work to keep the bottom of the pool clean. The surface of the water is kept clean by skimmers that also work automatically. Maintenance is no more than emptying the skimmer basket(s) and the collection bag from the automatic cleaner.
You have to periodically backwash the filter and add new filter medium, and, if your pool is situated so that it picks up a lot of debris, you may have to empty an inline basket that catches larger debris before it reaches your filter.
The above list takes very little of your time. You'll want to keep an eye on your chlorine levels - and that chore can be nearly automatic.
If you were planning on staying away from home for several weeks at a time, you might want to reconsider installing a pool, but, even then, filter motors can be programmed to come on and off without your attention.
In my family, I am pretty much the only one who actually swims in the pool, but everyone else loves sitting out there. It's a fun place to entertain, etc.
If you have kids, then they will love swimming and playing in the water.
I don't know why the initial reaction from so many is about how much maintenance there is on a pool. I spend far less time on the pool than I do my yard (and I don't spend much time on my yard, either, LOL).
Each to his/her own. But, if you think you would like a pool, I say, go ahead and install one.
Caruso