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Frequently Asked Questions – One Piece Pools
Aqua Platinum is an industry leader in providing fully customisable one-piece luxury tiled swimming pools. We hope you find all the answers you need on our website, but we welcome any further questions you may have. Meanwhile, here are our responses to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Why choose a one-piece swimming pool?
A one-piece pool from Aqua Platinum Projects is ideal for:
- Homeowners seeking a quick, hassle-free pool installation.(12-16 weeks) (10 weeks Starline)
- Those who want a durable, low-maintenance pool.
- Individuals looking for a cost-effective and energy-efficient pool solution.
- Streamlined planning and installation process with minimal onsite disruption.
How much does a one-piece tiled swimming pool cost?
Our average swimming pool is 10m x 3.8m these start from £92,000 click on this link for our price list.
How big should I make my swimming pool?
Choosing the right size for your pool involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your needs and fits well within your space and budget. Here are some guidelines and considerations to help you decide on the size of your pool:
Purpose of the Pool
1. Exercise:
- Lap Pool: If you intend to use the pool for swimming laps, a long, narrow pool is ideal. A standard lap pool is typically at least 25 meters (82 feet) in length however, we know 25m is not going to be achievable for most gardens, therefore we offer counter current units for smaller length pools.
- Depth: A depth of around 1.2 to 1.5 meters (4 to 5 feet) is generally suitable for exercise.
2. Children:
- Size: If the pool is primarily for children, you may want a smaller, shallower area. A pool with a large shallow end or even a separate shallow pool for toddlers might be appropriate.
- Depth: Shallow areas of 0.5 to 1 meter (1.5 to 3 feet) are safer for young children.
Location and Space
- Available Space: Measure the area where you plan to build the pool to ensure it fits comfortably within your property – ideally, away from imposing trees to reduce debris in the pool.
- Shape: Custom shapes can help maximize the use of available space. Consider L-shaped, freeform, or rectangular pools depending on your landscape and aesthetic preferences.
Budget
- Construction Costs: Larger pools are more expensive to build. Consider not only the initial construction costs but also ongoing maintenance and heating expenses.
- Materials: The choice of materials (concrete, fiberglass, vinyl) will also impact the overall cost.
Planning Permission
- Local Regulations: Check local building codes and zoning laws to see if there are any restrictions on pool size, depth, or location.
- Permits: Obtain any necessary permits before starting construction.
Additional Features
- Decking and Landscaping: Plan for additional space around the pool for decking, lounge areas, and landscaping.
- Safety Features: Consider including features such as pool covers, fences, and alarms, especially if children will be using the pool.
Common Pool Sizes
- Small Pools: Typically around 3 x 6 meters (10 x 20 feet), suitable for small spaces and budgets.
- Medium Pools: Around 4 x 8 meters (13 x 26 feet), offering a balance between space and cost.
- Large Pools: 6 x 12 meters (20 x 40 feet) or larger, ideal for exercise and entertainment, but require more space and budget.
Recommendations
- Consult with Designers: Leverage your design team to create a pool that fits your unique requirements and space.
- Site Visit: Have a professional visit your site to provide personalized advice and measurements.
By considering these factors, you can determine the optimal size for your pool that aligns with your needs and constraints.
What maintenance will my swimming pool need?
Swimming pools will need maintenance to maintain healthy water and optimum performance of the filtration system. The type of maintenance will vary depending on the location of your installation and your heat source. – here at Aqua Platinum we have this covered – We also have a dedicated aftercare team, Aqua Platinum Servicing, who believe regular maintenance is key to the longevity of any swimming pool. APS has gained a remarkable reputation as an industry leader in the swimming pool maintenance and refurbishment sector with a combined 30 years of industry experience. Our expert team offers a tailored approach to pool and leisure maintenance services specific to your requirements.
For a outdoor pool and a indoor pool, under 12m x 3.8m prices are below.
| PLANS | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fortnightly | £140 per visit | Total: £3,640 |
| Monthly | £180 per visit | Total: £2,160 |
| ANNUAL PLANT MAINTENANCE | |
|---|---|
| Air Handling Unit (if applicable) | £800.00 |
| Ultra-Violet unit (if applicable) | £400-600 |
| ADDITIONAL | |
|---|---|
| Pool Opening (Outdoor pools only) | £250.00 |
| Pool Closing (Outdoor pools only) | £250.00 |
How will you deliver our new swimming pool?
We deliver to the curbside of your property, if we can access site easily with our hi-ab truck there will be no extra cost, sometimes a crane will be required to transition the pool shell from the delivery vehicle to the install location on the date of delivery. We have cranes that can reach up to 30m these costs can be between £3500-£9500 depending on the reach.
How much does it cost to operate my swimming pool?
The cost to operate a pool varies based on several factors, including pool size, location, type of equipment used, and how often the pool is maintained. Here’s a breakdown of the main costs associated with operating a pool:
Example Monthly Operating Costs
For a mid-sized pool with moderate usage:
- Electricity: £50 (pumps) + £100 (heater) + £20 (lights) = £170
- Water: £30
- Chemicals: £60
- Maintenance: £100 (professional service)
Total: £360 per month (approximately).
Tips to Reduce Costs
- Energy-Efficient Equipment: Invest in energy-efficient pumps, heaters, and LED lighting.
- Pool Covers: Use covers to reduce water evaporation and heat loss.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep the pool clean and well-maintained to avoid costly repairs.
By carefully managing these factors, you can keep the operating costs of your pool within a reasonable range.
How do I heat my swimming pool?
There are a number of ways you can heat your pool, Gas, Electric, Air Source Heat Pump, Heat Exchanger and of course Solar Pool Heaters.
1. Gas Pool Heaters
Pros:
- Heats water quickly, regardless of outside temperature.
- Effective for heating pools quickly for short periods.
- Suitable for any climate.
Best for:
- Those needing quick heating for short periods, such as occasional pool parties or short swimming seasons.
2. Electric Pool Heaters
Pros:
- Easy to install.
- Consistent heating regardless of weather conditions.
- Lower initial cost compared to heat pumps.
Best for:
- Smaller pools or spas, and for users in areas with moderate electricity costs.
3. Air Source Heat Pumps
Pros:
- Highly energy-efficient and cost-effective over the long term.
- Lower operational costs compared to gas and electric heaters.
- Environmentally friendly with lower carbon emissions.
Best for:
- Warmer climates or those looking for a more sustainable and cost-efficient option over time.
UK outdoor pools to extend the summer season.
Note also we can provide indoor pool heating and air handling solutions with Air Source Heat Pumps.
4. Heat Exchangers
Pros:
- Can be highly efficient when paired with an existing heating system (like a geothermal or solar setup).
- Low operational costs once installed.
Best for:
- Those with existing renewable energy systems or in areas with access to geothermal energy.
5. Solar Pool Heaters
Pros:
- Lowest operational cost as they use free solar energy.
- Environmentally friendly with zero carbon emissions.
- Long lifespan and low maintenance.
Best for:
- Sunny climates and environmentally conscious users looking for long-term savings.
Which one pool shall I choose? Tiled pool or a Starline pool?
Choosing between a tiled pool and a Starline pool depends on your preferences, budget, and the specific characteristics you want in your pool. Here’s a comparison to help you make an informed decision:
Tiled Pool
Pros:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Tiled pools offer a high-end, luxurious look with a variety of colours, patterns, and designs.
- Durability: Properly installed and maintained, tiles can last a long time.
- Customisation: High level of customisation allows for unique designs and intricate patterns.
- Repairs: Individual tiles can be replaced if damaged, rather than replacing large sections.
Starline Pool
Starline pools are known for their high-quality fiberglass or composite construction. They are prefabricated, which offers several benefits:
Pros:
- Quick Installation: Faster to install compared to tiled pools since they are prefabricated.
- Lower Maintenance: Smooth surfaces are easier to clean and resist algae growth
- Durability: Made from high-quality materials that are resistant to UV rays and chemicals, reducing wear and tear.
- Cost-Effective: More affordable than custom tiled pools, both in terms of initial cost and long-term maintenance.
- Integrated Features: Comes with built-in steps, benches, and other features.
Which swimming pool cover should I choose?
Choosing the Right Cover
Considerations:
- Purpose: Determine your primary needs—whether it’s safety, debris protection, heat retention, or convenience.
- Budget: Establish your budget, considering both initial costs and ongoing maintenance.
- Climate: Consider your local climate. Solar covers are great for sunny regions, while winter covers are better for areas with harsh winters.
- Pool Use: If you use your pool year-round, an automatic or safety cover might be more convenient and provide better protection.
- Ease of Use: If you want something easy to manage, automatic covers are ideal, but they come at a higher cost.
Recommendations
- For Safety and Convenience: Automatic Safety Cover – Ideal if budget allows, offering convenience, safety, and energy efficiency.
- For Budget-Friendly Safety: Manual Safety Cover – Provides safety and debris protection at a lower cost.
- For Heat Retention and Cost Savings: Solar Cover – Best for regions with lots of sunshine, helping to keep the pool warm and reduce evaporation.
- For Seasonal Use: Winter Cover – Great for closing the pool during the off-season, protecting it from debris and harsh weather.
