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After installation, we do a sample saturation test to see how successful the installation is.

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Finally, a water conscious backyard that saves money, water and your time for maintenance.

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Winged Rectangle

Widened Lap Lane

Wading Pool A

Serenade

Sea Cove

Radius Ended Rectangle

Play Pool Concept

Modified Rectangle w/ Swim-Outs

Modified Rectangle

Luau

Freeform Concept 1

Freeform Concept 2

Freeform Concept 3

• Design
• Layout
• Excavation
• Steel Reinforcement
• Plumbing & Utilities
• Gunite
• Tile, Rockery & Masonry
• Concrete Flatwork
• Equipment Placement
• Plaster
• Start-Up

Design Considerations

• Area Usage
• Functionality
• Proposed Elevations
• Proposed Grade Transitions
• Shapes & Size
• Dimensional Proportions
• Exposures
• Views
• Screening
• Color
• Sound
• Lights
• Textures
• Surfaces
• Structures
• Features

Elements of Design

• Topographical Survey
• Grading
• Landscape
• Hardscape
• Pavement
• Irrigation
• Lighting
• Surface & Hydrostatic Drainage
• Swimming Pool
• Spa
• Water Features

• Control System
• Control System Capacity
• Control Panel’s Type & Locations Points
• Pool Lighting
• Pool Plumbing
• Spa Lighting
• Spa Plumbing
• Water Feature Lighting
• Water Feature’s Plumbing
• Special Feature Lighting
• Special Feature’s Plumbing
• Pool High Voltage Electrical Conduit Network
• Pool Low Voltage Electrical Conduit Network
• Spa High Voltage Electrical Conduit Network
• Spa Low Voltage Electrical Conduit Network
• Water Feature’s High Voltage Electrical Conduit Network
• Water Features Low Voltage Electrical Conduit Network
• Special Feature’s High Voltage Electrical Conduit Network
• Special Features Low Voltage Electrical Conduit Network
• Natural and LPG Supply Distribution System
• Insect Abatement Systems
• Fiber Optic Conduit Routing
• Illuminator Locations
• Audio Sound Systems Conduit Routing
• Audio Sound Systems Distribution Points
• Video & Monitor Conduit Routing
• Video & Monitor Systems Components
• Water Surface Sonar Motion Monitor System
• Outdoor Heating System
• Remote Control Capability

• Fee Based On-site consultation (1-Hr min. @ $125.00/hr.)
• Acceptance of fee based Preliminary Conceptual Design Contract (per Quote)
• Dimensioned plot plan showing footprint of entire house (Supplied by Client)
• Establishment of the Design Considerations Criteria (DCC)

Operational Functionality

FULL SCOPE DESIGN

Introduction of Services

Designing an outdoor environment generally involves expressing multiple layers of information for the benefit of developing a well-rounded understanding for the requirements. These multiple layers express the requirements for each element of development as an individual portion of the work. It is important to realize that a design’s sole purpose is to articulate a meaningful conclusion of intent for the requirements.

These drawings are generally provided to those who will be providing cost projections for the associated cost for construction. In order for an installer (Contractor) to apply the desired standards for quality construction, the requirements must first be clearly expressed. These expressions in the context of affective design are refereed to as the Plans and Specification ¹ of intentions. In the absence of a defined specification of intentions, any installer will be in a position to apply his/her own set of standards when interpreting only lines on a drawing. In such cases, it is often true that many benefits and contributions of sound design are negated or subordinated to a type of installation that reflects sub-standards in the absence of defined specifications.

Simply generating a drawing that reflects shape, elevations, and dimensions will not provide enough information in which to attain comparative pricing between Contractors. The subjectivity that a highly competitive arena forces upon competing construction firms often requires estimators of many firms to apply a developed understanding for the defenselessness of non-specified residential landscaping. In simple terms, if it’s not called out on the plans it isn’t identified as a requirement.

On the other side of the coin, many Designers and Architect’s do not have a broad enough knowledge base in which to fully express the sometimes very involved layered mechanics of an entire residential outdoor environment. When analyzing any project (from a construction prospective) the graphic expressions of a plan most often require a correspondence to further definitions, thus construction details & specifications become a requirement in order to arrive at the expressed intention. These missing fundamentals are an integral part of design; providing a comprehensive direction for the intentions and will leave much less to misguided interpretation.

Defining the applicable standards requires knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines together with the appreciative value of ascetics enhancements. The expression of one without the other simple sets the client up for an escalation of construction cost. Developing fissures and fractures in the foundational understanding for the prescribed requirements are to often the result of inadequate design. The resulting “change orders” and escalating construction cost are most always a point of contention and can for the most part be avoided with the application of a skillful, knowledgeable design service.

A well-rounded understanding for these multiple disciplines require many years of exposure. This very necessary education in the implementation of good design is derived over time from experience. An osmotic education of having rubbed against “projects done well and not so well” is invaluable. The conveyance of such information in a diagrammatic fashion sufficient to extrapolate an absolute cost estimation really requires some level of appreciation for the physical realization for the results. In laying the foundation for such design directions, we start with the reliance of having been involved since “1978” with many collaborative efforts constructing domestic and international design/build projects. Through the application of sound engineering directions, we provide our clients with the highest level of today’s knowledge and the most comprehensive expressed understanding for the prerequisites of successful project completion.

Comprehensive design doesn’t cost, it pays for it’s self through the savings of the otherwise occurrences of unexpected requirements for incomplete directions. The following is a primary outline for the requirements in a Preliminary Conceptual Design.

Preliminary Conceptual Design (PCD)

This is generally a single page plan drawn to scale and reflecting the layout of both Hardscape ² and Softscape ³ considerations. Other elements of the design such as landscape planting areas are designated and identified as a zone in which more in-depth discussions can advance the Designer understanding for a client’s desires. At this stage of design, a client can explore the range of possibilities that may exist between extending to the Designer, “artistic licensee” or providing directions geared toward a narrower frame in which to draw his/her picture. At this junction, a great importance should be weighed against whether a melding of the minds can be reached between the Client’s desires and the Designer’s perceptions of possibilities for both the space and usages of the outdoor environment.

REQUIREMENTS

DISCUSSION SUBJECTS OF (DCC)

Preliminary Conceptual Design Presentation (PCDP)

The presentation will consist of a meeting between client and designer at the offices of Dynamic Poolscapes Inc. During this meeting the graphic design, expressions involving intent of the sixteen discussion subjects of the Design Consideration Criteria will be further discussed. During this meeting, a revision can be implemented as directed by the client. This revision will be inclusive of the original (PCD) quotation additional revisions will be billed at the regular consultation rate. If required the client may request the provisions of an Engineer’s Cost Estimate (ECE) upon finalization of the (PCD). This preliminary projection of construction cost can allow for a more definitive revised design direction.

Engineer’s Cost Estimate (ECE)

On a fee basis a preliminary cost estimate can be performed for the projected construction cost on the basis of the (PCD). This information will be preliminary and will be expressed in a spreadsheet style framework broken out by categories i.e. Grading, Plantings, Irrigation, Lighting, Concrete, Masonry, etc. absent of definitive conclusion as to specific engineering requirements but, applying industry standards otherwise. The (ECE) does not represent a bid proposal to perform the work scope; it is an opportunity to identify the associations between concepts and current economic realities for construction cost. In doing so a client’s priorities can be appropriately applied and design revisions can more effectively address the desired directions of development. ]]> http://www.epoolscapes.com/2009/12/10/anatomy-of-a-swimming-pool/feed/ 0 http://www.epoolscapes.com/2009/11/11/operations-and-owners-manual/ http://www.epoolscapes.com/2009/11/11/operations-and-owners-manual/#comments Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:55:30 +0000 nickchaffee http://www.epoolscapes.com/?p=1435 Continue reading →]]> Operations and Owner’s Manual

We have compiled from each manufacturer listed complete, O & M manuals explaining troubleshooting procedures, maintenance practices, safety tips and guidelines for trouble free operations directed at better longevity and performance within the parameters of warrantees specifications.

If you want to secure plans for the absolutely best energy efficient pool available, then let us help you develop a real plan that will set you up for years of savings and a lifetime of problem free operation!

Piping Runs and Pipe Sizing

The longer the piping runs the more electrical energy it takes to filter the pool. The smaller the piping size the more electrical energy it takes to filter the pool. Keep in mind larger, correctly sized pipes will reduce your electrical energy consumption.
Today’s swimming pool industry considers 7 feet per second (FPS) water velocity within a pipe as an acceptable and responsible standard. Therefore smaller pipes are used and these smaller pipes will cost you less to be installed.

We design our piping networks to not exceed 5 feet per second (FPS) which saves energy much like an automobile traveling at 50 MPH verses one traveling at 70 MPH. Realize that you will consume much less gasoline per mile at 50 MPH than at 70 MPH because the wind resistance at 70 MPH is much greater.

The laws of physics apply very similarly with moving water through a pipe faster with the exception that rather than burning more gasoline per mile traveled you are using more electricity for gallons being pumped and filtered. It will cost half the energy to move water at 5 (FPS) as compared to 7 (FPS).

SOLUTION: Utilize larger pipe sizes and shorter piping distances thus reduce energy consumption.

Filtration Type

Sand filtration is the most energy efficient as compared to CARTRIDGE or D.E. filters. SAND filters, filter at 20 microns (when clean) and 10 microns (when dirty). Cartridge and D.E. filters will filter 5 microns (when clean) and 3 microns (when dirty). Although both levels are visually identical to the naked eye, the finer the micron level the more energy it will require to push the water through the filter. Additionally, the finer the micron level the more often the filter will require cleaning. If cleaning isn’t done on a regular basis, filtration durations are often increased (due to reduced flow) in order to get an acceptable turn-over rate for a pool. Increasing filtration durations waste energy by using more electricity to move less water.

Solution: By using Sand Filtration you can save electricity and are less likely to over filter your pool water.

Filtration Maintenance

Sand filters are allowably back washed into a typical drainage system and pose no health hazards. Cartridge and D.E. filters (if not maintained properly) can over filter (2 microns) and can pose a bio-hazard by filtering out certain water borne bacteria. The Cartridge replacement elements (internals in a Cartridge Filter) cost $250 to $600 per change out and should be replaced every 18 to 24 months. D.E. filters must be recharged with Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) after each cleaning, which has costs associated with those replenishment.

SOLUTION: By using Sand Filtration you can save replacement costs, and reduce maintenance expense combined with lowering your electricity bill!

Pumping Size

The larger the pump’s horsepower is, the more kilowatts of electrical energy that will be consumed in order to filter the pool water. If, piping is smaller and the distances are excessive, more horsepower will be required to move the water through the piping network. Pumping sizes and piping sizes must be calculated and matched to their best inter-working relationship in order to maximize the greatest return from energy consumption. Achieving minimum flow rates for optimum functionality involving Skimmers, Main Drains, Surface Returns. Floor Returns and other elements of hydraulic harmony isn’t guess work, it should be calculated.

By using the latest technology in variable speed / programmable flow rate pumps, several different functions can be addressed by one pump. Interfacing these pumps with controller intelligence, and designated actuator function can provide a wider range of operational functionality with the greatest benefits while minimizing electrical usage.

Solution: In order to truly benefit from advancing technologies, you will need to hire those most familiar with their applications.

Roof Solar Heating

Many swimming pool solar systems unnecessarily waste energy. When connected to a typical filtering system network in a parasitic fashion the high flow filtering pumps (designed to pump higher filtration volumes) divert some of that flow through the solar panels. The panels are often placed on a roof thus requiring greater pressure to force the water vertically up and through the solar system. This situation invariable reduces the maximum potential for returning filtered water back to the pool. A reduced flow requires the pump to run longer and consume more electricity in order to provide solar thermal contribution and the required filtration turn-over.

This inefficiency is compounded because the maximum thermal contribution window for roof solar panels is between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm (April through September). This time window corresponds to what many title companies refer to as “Peak Usage” hours and they discouraged consumption between 12:00 pm and 7:00 pm by affixing a higher Kilowatt Usage Costs in that time window.

Solution: Consider different solar options and pumping options that can reduce electrical consumption while still providing thermal contribution.

In-Deck Solar Heating

By incorporating a thermal absorption grid within your concrete decking you can capture radiant heat that is stored in the concrete. Concrete that is exposed to long periods of daytime direct sunlight far exceeds the ambient air temperatures and holds heat long after sundown. This condition will allow solar heating operation to take place during off-peak energy conservation hours. Solar operation can be programmed as a lower volume independent mode of pumping operation, separate from the higher flow filtration requirements. The pool decking elevations will usually correspond to a friendlier energy usage relationship than that of roof tops elevations. Therefore, in-decking solar systems can reduce the energy required by a solar system and together with independent pumping rather than parasitic pumping you can gain the maximum heating value for the least electricity consumed

Solution: Have professionals design your solar systems so that they use energy much more wisely.

Electrical Wiring Sizes

When deciding what the correct wire size for the appropriate electrical loads are the builder should consider the entire functional operation, not just the filter pump. Pool equipment locations generally involve installing an Electrical Sub-Panel. This panel will have a group of wires that provide electricity from the Main Electrical Panel. The distance from the main panel together with the anticipated electrical load (ampere draw) will determine the wire size. Electrical loads are measured in Amperes (Kilowatts) which is the measurement of energy consumption.

As electricity travels from the main panel to the sub-panel through the selected wire size, some energy is lost along the distance. The loss is measured in volts (allowable voltage losses) (AVL) and should not exceed 2% of the line voltage under full load conditions. As an example, 240v (AVL) = 4.80 Volts. This voltage loss is wasted power that you are being charged for as part of your kilowatts of consumption. Lost voltage is much like the loss of piping pressure while moving water through a pipe. Voltage is the pressure whereas Amperes or Kilowatts are the gallons per minute being used. The greater your losses, the greater your waste and that waste will be on your electricity bill.

Depending upon the ampere draw (pumps & components operating) being demanded for electricity by each component a total calculation can be assessed and a selection for the main wire sizing can be made.

Often in swimming pool sub-panels assessments the filter pump’s operation is the basis for selecting wire size because most often the secondary functions would not be considered to be operating simultaneously. In this scenario the builder could size the sub-panel’s wire feed smaller at less expense to the installation. This savings is very one sided because it marries the customer to higher voltage losses (lost kilowatts) under full load conditions.

This is common practice in the industry much like the piping systems pipe sizing being smaller and less expensive to construct yet more expensive to operate. In today’s economy a builder’s installation costs will directly affect the bid price you receive. In evaluating the real worth of what you are going to receive you should be sure to measure the performance of what is being proposed.

Solution: Design wire sizes to the full load values at 100% operational functionality conditions while staying at less than 2% AVL.

Chlorine Generators and Salt

Every few years new technologies are introduced to the swimming pool industry. Some of these are more beneficial than others. Some, although providing benefit have side effects that become more problematic than beneficial.

Maintaining swimming pool equipment generally isn’t something a new pool owner wants to spend a lot of time thinking about but, depending upon the type of equipment you are sold, it can be something that will have greater demands on your time and or your wallet.

Chlorine Generators use electricity to convert high concentrations of dissolved Salt to Chlorine as your pool water travels past the internals. These internals must be kept clean in order to accurately determine the rate of conversion. Additionally salt concentrations must be elevated to between 3,300 and 4,000 PPM TDS by adding salt to you pool water.

One problem with this technology is maintaining your pH chemistry. pH is affected by the exchange process in converting salt to chlorine. Therefore this technology requires much more attention to be paid to maintaining your pool’s pH values. pH balance is crucial to your pools longevity of plastered surfaces together with providing a friendly suitability for human contact.

Another issue is that the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) or Total Dissolved Salts (as some refer) at 3,300 plus PPM are consider unsuitable for ingestion. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) the maximum concentration of water chemistry’s constituents for potable water are 500 PPM/TDS. In weighing in sensibility, one should evaluate our internal organs sensitivities and tolerances to higher concentrations with that of our largest permeable organ’s (our outer skin) ability to cope with being immersed into a solution that represents more than six times (WHO) recommendations.

Several Cities’ now require a special permit in order to drain pool water that has been treated with salt and they dictate that this treated water must be drained into the sewer system not the storm drain system. This clearly exhibits their concerns for water quality issues together with the risk to fish, fowl and other animals. Salt concentrations at these levels are unhealthy for your domestic animals ingestion, as well.

Other issues concern water features that have water spraying or water flowing and coming in contact with a tile, rock or concrete product’s surface that will periodically become dry under non-operation conditions. When this situation occurs the water chemistry’s constituents will precipitate onto that surface as the liquid water becomes vaporized during the drying process. This will be an ongoing maintenance problem causing a build up overtime if not regularly kept clean. In a similar light, issues involving electrolysis corrosion on some components constructed of metals that come in contact with pool water can experience an accelerated deteriorating condition.

Finally the longevity of a titanium cell’s typical warranty duration is about one year, in a few cases two years. The replacement of this cell after that period will cost between $600.and $800.

When compiling the information regarding the inherent problems of salt / chlorine generating together with the higher energy consumption (as compared to feeders) it’s difficult to imagine how such a technology became promoted as a better option to sanitizing your pool water.

Often the allure of the latest technologies subordinates our ability to reason with the façade that the latest is the greatest. The latest needs to be validated by knowledgeable professionals that are involved in implementation and making observations. These are our opinions and critiques as we have come to appreciate a sensible approach to building a quality product with integrity.

We are hopeful that you will gravitate toward the sensibilities suggested herein and if this information helps your decision to build a pool better, we will have been part of that success.

There are several very big differences in the industry wide swimming pool construction practices of today’s economy. We employ all of these “Best Practices” mentioned above as our standards.

When selecting your builder we highly suggest that you investigate whether or not an equal level of commitment prevails dedicated to your long term satisfaction. Measure the benefits of a short term profit taking that will result in you paying for something that will cost you more over time.

“Be aware of what you are paying for today and what will cost you tomorrow.”