How Do Pool Filters and Pumps Work?
You have two main filtration options for inground pools: sand systems and cartridge systems.
Sand filters use specially graded sand to trap debris as water passes through. They’re simple, reliable, and durable, and the sand typically only needs replacing every 5 to 7 years. The trade-offs are lower filtration efficiency (they filter down to 20 to 40 microns) and the need for regular backwashing, which uses water.
Cartridge filters use a pleated cartridge element to filter water down to 10 to 15 microns, giving you noticeably clearer water. They don’t require backwashing, which conserves water, and they’re easier to clean (just remove the cartridge and hose it off). They cost more upfront, and cartridges typically need replacement every 1 to 2 years.
Variable speed pumps pair with either filter type and can reduce energy costs by up to 90% compared to single-speed pumps. They also run quieter and keep the pool cleaner by allowing longer filtration cycles at low speed.
For a pool vacuum, robotic cleaners are the most efficient and user-friendly option. They handle the floor and walls with minimal effort on your part.
What Sanitization Options Are Available for Inground Pools?
Sanitization keeps your water clean, clear, and safe for swimming. Each system has its own trade-offs.
Salt systems use a salt cell to produce chlorine from dissolved salt, providing steady sanitation and a softer water feel. They operate across a wide range of salt levels and are one of the most popular choices for inground pools.
Advanced Blue and Pristine Blue are copper-based, non-chlorine programs with bi-weekly maintenance cycles. They’re compatible with chlorine, bromine, and lithium sanitizers if you want to combine approaches.
Nature’s Pure is an inline copper ionizer that releases microscopic mineral ions to control bacteria and algae. It reduces how much chlorine you need to add on an ongoing basis.
Traditional chlorine is affordable, widely available, and easy to use with tablets, liquid, or granular shock. It requires more frequent dosing and monitoring than mineral-based systems.
When choosing a system, think about how hands-on you want to be with maintenance, your ongoing budget, and what kind of water feel you prefer. Our team at any Galaxy showroom can walk you through the options.
What Pool Finishes Should You Consider?
The right finish affects both the look of your pool and how much maintenance it needs.
Vinyl pool liners come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and thicknesses. High-quality liners are puncture-resistant and smooth to swim against, with a typical lifespan of 8 to 12 years before needing replacement.
Fiberglass pools come with a gel coat finish applied during manufacturing. The gel coat is smooth, non-porous, and resistant to algae and stains. It’s available in various colors and textured options, and proper care extends its lifespan significantly.
Concrete pools are finished with plaster and, at Galaxy, topped with Ecofinish. Ecofinish is a thermoplastic spray-on coating that creates a durable, non-porous, colorfast surface that resists chipping, cracking, and staining. It’s available in a variety of colors and textures and lasts longer than traditional plaster alone.
When choosing a finish, think about aesthetics, maintenance, and expected lifespan. Our design consultants can show you samples in the showroom so you can see how different finishes look in person.
What Add-Ons and Upgrades Should You Consider?
The right add-ons make your pool more comfortable, more functional, and more fun.
For temperature control, a heat pump extends your swimming season, a heat/chill pump gives you both warming and cooling, and a gas heater provides fast heating for colder climates or quick temperature changes.
For safety and convenience, safety covers protect the pool during the off-season, automatic covers open and close with the push of a button, and pool alarms alert you to activity around the pool.
For ambiance and fun, LED color-changing lights let you customize the mood, deck jets add water features from the pool deck, waterfalls add a tranquil focal point, and jump rocks give kids (and adults) a fun way to get in the water.
Popular upgrades include flagstone coping for a natural look, wet edge coping for a modern look (standard on fiberglass and concrete, upgrade on vinyl), tanning ledges (6′ or 8′) for shallow lounging, built-in hot tubs for year-round warm water, and automation systems that let you control everything from your phone.
For year-round enjoyment, homeowners in the DFW area also explore all-season pools, which are designed to extend your swimming season well beyond the summer months.
Diving boards and slides are available for pools with appropriate depth and safety clearances. Not every pool model supports them, so check with your consultant before adding them to your plan.
