Why a Dolphin Robotic Vacuum May be a Good Idea

If you have a pool and clean it regularly, you’re probably well aware what a pain it can be to install and use traditional pool cleaning devices. Whether you have a suction cleaner that connects to your skimmer or a pressure cleaner that connects to the pump, you spend your time installing fittings, cutting and assembling hoses and untangling hoses and cords. It can be a chore!

Not only can traditional pool cleaning devices waste your time, but they can also waste your money. A typical suction cleaner can cost you up to $400 of electricity in a year. Pressure cleaners use even more energy, for a whopping yearly cost of about $650.

A Dolphin robotic pool vacuum from Maytronics is an independent cleaning machine that is “plug-and-play”. It doesn’t rely on the pool’s filter or pump, and it doesn’t need any additional pumps or hoses to get your pool clean. Just drop it into the water and turn it on.

Not only are these robotic pool vacuums easier to use—they are also up to 90% more efficient than the suction and pressure cleaners on the market today. A robotic cleaner uses far less energy for a total yearly electricity cost of only about $20.

The latest generation of Maytronics pool vacuums are cloud-connected, WIFI enabled, remote controlled and easily programmable, giving you the ability to clean your pool from anywhere, anytime.

So, stop in to your local Colley’s location and find out why a Dolphin from Maytronics is the right fit for your pool!

Colley's at the 2022 Erie County Fair!

The 182nd Erie County Fair is almost here- and Colley’s Pools & Spas will be there! The fair runs from August 10th-21st and we’re hard at work setting up our booth. We always look forward to the fair as a time to interact with old friends and make new ones!

This year, like many in the past, we will be there with exclusive deals on ATV Swim Spas, NEW Marquis Hot Tubs and aboveground pool packages!

Additionally, we will have highly knowledgeable associates on-site who can speak to you regarding a wide array of your pool and spa needs!

Our Colley’s Pools & Spas booth will be located right by gate 4A, next to the Event Center (see image below, or click here to visit the fair map.)

For Erie County Fair ticketing information, click here!

Colley’s Pools & Spas can’t wait to see you at this year’s Erie County Fair!

Tips for Properly Storing your Chemicals

Safely storing pool chemicals is an important part of keeping your pool environment safe. Pool chemicals are essential to keep your pool water clean and clear and free of contaminants. However, they can be dangerous if they aren’t stored or handled properly. Additionally, chemicals can be costly so it is important you store them properly.

Over time, pool chemicals can naturally break down. This process can be accelerated if the chemicals are not stored properly. Here are some tips to make sure your pool chemicals are stored in a safe environment:

1. Do Not Reuse or Switch Containers: Reusing pool chemical containers or transferring chemicals to another container is never recommended as it can create a dangerous situation. When storing pool chemicals, always use the original containers with their labels clearly legible. Each container was designed for the specific storage requirements of the chemical it contains, so it is never advisable to switch containers. Even if you’re handling the same type of chemical, mixing a new batch of a chemical with a leftover batch of the same chemical can lead to a reaction from the older residue, or create fumes.

2. Keep Chemicals Away From Flammable Items: It should go without saying but, outdoor storage areas for pool chemicals should be out of the reach of anything flammable. Keep any gas-powered equipment, like your lawnmower, in a completely different location. The storage site should also be away from sources of heat, like an outdoor fire pit or grill.

3. Provide Plenty of Ventilation: Choose a location with ample ventilation for storing pool chemicals. In areas with little airflow, dangerous fumes can quickly accumulate if chemicals do start to react.

4. Avoid Exposure to Sunlight and Humidity: When considering where to store pool chemicals, the best storage locations are areas out of direct sunlight. Pool chemicals react poorly to sunshine and heat, and require a dark, cool environment to control for any potential reactions. Humidity or even small amounts of pool water can cause chemical reactions that could lead to dangerous fumes.

Pool Issues you May Not Want to Ignore

Nobody likes to think about the need to have their pool repaired, but sometimes issues arise that make it a necessity. Ignoring repairs can lead to bigger issues down the liner if not properly addressed. Here are some issues you may not want to ignore:

1. Cracks in Your Gunite Foundation: While small cracks in the plaster coating can be common and usually simple to fix, it’s important to act on them early because they develop into more serious structural cracks over time.

2. Peeling Plaster: If your pool chemicals are improperly balanced, the plaster on your gunite pool can erode, causing it to wear, crack and peel. People tend to ignore these issues, but it may be worth it to address this before it deteriorates.

3. Loose Coping Stones: The stones that top your pool’s wall are called coping stones. These can become loose and crack. When this happens, they can turn into a safety hazard.

4. Leaks: A leak is not always apparent, but signs can include significant water loss and a wet yard among others. If not properly addressed, a leak can lead to future, more costly issues.

If you find yourself facing any of these potential issues, contact us to see how we can help!