November 2011
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Changing Your Hot Tub Water in 4 Simple Steps
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How to Choose the Right In-ground Pool for You
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Pool season is right around the corner, and no summer splash fest is complete without noodles, rafts, beach balls and a few of the hottest new pool accessories on the market. The latest and greatest pool gear offers entertainment, convenience, and the ability to enjoy your pool long into the evening.
Underwater Lights
After the sun sets, keep that evening glow with a variety of underwater and floating pool lights that bring an element of splendor as your pool scene transitions from day to night. Most models use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to send multicolored lights through the water and can project a variety of flashing patterns on to the sides and bottom of a pool. Many underwater lights also have automatic shut-off timers. Besides adding a bit of ambiance, the soft-colored lights won’t attract bugs like their bright white counterparts. Radiant and pest-free, it’s the perfect accent to an extended pool party.
“I have really loaded up on floating lights because I expect those to be a really hot item,” says Penny Johnson, co-owner of Huntsville, Ala.-based Johnson Pools & Spas and a member of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals. “The lighting will show up gorgeous at an evening party.”
For a subtler glow, floating lights in the shapes of stars, hearts and flowers add a nice touch. Solar-powered models capture the sun’s rays all day and then release a soft glow after dark.
Floating Cooler
The Big Bobber Floating Cooler ensures a little daytime R&R, keeping the beverages icy and just an arm’s reach away. The kitschy drink container is shaped and painted like a fishing bobber, but in your pool it’ll be more likely to help you catch rays without having to get up for a drink. The cooler is designed to hold 12 cans plus ice.
Underwater Torpedoes
If your family wants to spice up the traditional game of catch, try using underwater torpedoes, which can travel distances up to 40 feet. You can also set up targets to see who has the best aim. Torpedoes with flashing lights allow you to extend your pool fun into the night.
Pool Skateboard
For an extreme twist on in-pool sports, try the Sub Skate Pool Skateboard. The 30-inch board promises to test the skill of any rider with the challenge of performing the same tricks underwater. There’s no inflation required for this sturdy high-density foam board.
Outdoor TV
Stay tuned in while you tune the rest of the world out in your backyard oasis with the weatherproof television by SunBrite. The all-weather enclosure protects internal components from rain, dirt, insects and scratches, and can withstand temperatures as low as 22 degrees below zero, and as high as 122 degrees. It even comes with a waterproof remote control for aquatic channel surfing.
Of course, bigger, better and more luxurious versions of the classic poolside toys, like squirt guns and rafts, will also hit the scene. Investing in any of these accessories will create one more reason for you and your family to get excited about the beginning of a new pool season.
