For the first time in over five years my crew and I attended a big swimming pool convention in Atlantic City, NJ. It is by far the largest such convention for the northeast part of the country. With over 400 swimming pool and spa companies and 11,000 attendees, it definitely keeps you busy. Basically it’s a giant convention hall with each vendor having a booth or area to display their latest and greatest products to those in the swimming pool and spa industry so we can pass those new products onto you, the consumer. In addition to the big show in Atlantic City, we also attended the smaller regional show at Mohegan Sun Casino sponsored by our distributor Baystate Pool Supplies. Suffice to say, I’ve seen every conceivable pool and spa gadget imaginable over the past couple of weeks.
There are devices that pass water through a tube exposing it to a UV bulb, devices to automate the control of all your pool and spa equipment from a panel in your home, inflatable toys meant to look like Tootsie Rolls and Smarties Candies, fake human excrement as a gag to make it look like someone had an accident in the pool (I actually ordered a case of these), underwater lights that make your pool look like Studio 54, a $25,000 hot tub that has oars in it for exercising (for $25,000 I would think it would row itself) and the list goes on and on.
With all of these different products available it can be tempting to want to install of the latest and greatest gadgets on your pool. All of these items promise to make your life easier, to simplify the process for the average pool owner. My advice to customers has always been the same: keep it simple. With each new electronic device you add to your pool you’re essentially adding another layer of complexity to something you want to be simple and enjoyable. There is also the problem of these products malfunctioning and needing costly repairs.
My customers tell me all sorts of different procedures and products they use to keep their pool looking good. Most of the time its not the way I would recommend, but if it works for that particular pool owner, I always tell them to keep doing it. If it isn’t broke, then don’t fix it. That concludes my thoughts on swimming pools on this cold and snowy February day. Looking forward to a bright and sunny spring when we will be ready to open swimming pools for the season.
We continue to have limited store hours but will have more regular hours in April. Call us with any concerns and we will be sure to get back to you. In the meantime, visit our website or send us an email.