Pool Equipment: What Stays And Goes?

Pool equipment is designed to be outside and can withstand the elements. While it is not necessary to cover and enclose pool equipment, many pool owners want to keep their equipment safe and their backyard pretty. There are three main types of pool equipment enclosures: walls, boxes, and sheds. Walls are the quickest and easiest way to enclose your pool equipment. Boxes and sheds offer more equipment protection, coverage, and storage space. Pool equipment can be placed inside or outside, depending on the circumstances and preferences of the homeowner.

Pool equipment location: inside or outside?

Pool equipment can be placed either inside or outside. There are several factors to consider when deciding where to place your pool equipment. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the best location:

• Inconspicuous placement: It is recommended to choose an inconspicuous spot for your pool equipment, just like any other equipment around the house. Consider placing it around the corner of the house or behind a shed. If it's not possible to hide it completely, you can use lattice or shrubs to screen it.
• Proximity to the house: Keeping the pool equipment close to the electrical panel can reduce wiring costs. Pool equipment is typically wired to the house panel box, so locating it near the house can shorten wire runs and trenching. However, this may not always be feasible due to design layouts.
• Equipment level: Maintaining the pool equipment at the same level as the pool or lower is advisable. Placing the equipment above the water level in the pool can put extra strain on the pool pump. While inground pool pumps can handle minor lifts, it is still a good practice to keep the equipment at or below the pool level whenever possible.
• Distance from the pool: Staying close to the pool is generally recommended. Shorter pipe runs reduce the workload on the pump, prolonging its lifespan and reducing electricity consumption. A distance of 20-40 feet from the pool to the equipment is common, but longer runs may be necessary in some cases.
• Accessibility: If your pool equipment is outside the pool fence, ensure that a gate is installed for easy access. This will save you from having to walk a long distance every time you need to access the filter system.
• Noise considerations: Pool pumps are generally quiet, especially when running on low speed. However, if you are concerned about noise near bedrooms, you can use timers to operate the pump during daytime hours only.
• Visual appeal: If you want to enhance the visual appeal of your pool area, you can opt for pool equipment covers or enclosures. These can range from simple storage boxes to elegant wooden enclosures or metal sheds. They not only hide the equipment but also protect it from the elements.

Pool equipment enclosures

The simplest way to hide your pool equipment is to put up a small wall or screen to block the view and the noise from the pump. You can easily find vinyl privacy walls at most home stores and garden centers, or you can build your own if you're handy with wood. Privacy screens made from vinyl resin are a popular choice as they are affordable, durable, and available in a variety of styles.

Pool Equipment Enclosure — Boxes

Boxes offer more protection from the elements than walled enclosures. They usually have hinged lids for easy access to your equipment. It's important to obtain proper equipment size measurements to ensure you have enough room to access your equipment for repairs or maintenance. Adding a few extra inches or even a foot to the width, height, and length measurements is recommended.

Sheds provide full protection for your equipment while also offering additional storage space for pool toys, supplies, chemicals, and even yard tools. You can build a shed from blueprints or get a DIY kit to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing space to conceal your equipment.

When designing your pool equipment enclosure, it's important to consider factors such as ventilation, equipment repair access, and storage space. Additionally, ensure that any enclosure you choose is compatible with your regional climate and suits your personal style and taste.

Pool equipment cover ideas

Pool equipment doesn't have to be an eyesore. With a bit of creativity and some clever design choices, you can seamlessly integrate it into the aesthetics of your outdoor space. Here are some ideas to cover your pool equipment:

Streamlined Pool Equipment Covers:

A simple wall or box can hide your pool maintenance equipment, dampen the sound they produce, and protect them from the weather. A small storage box that fits around these pieces of equipment can be purchased or built. For better protection, look for one with vented sides, hinged doors, and a lid. If you're looking for a simpler option, a vinyl screen can be assembled quickly, but it may not offer the same protection as a box.

Metal Storage Options:

Metal boxes, especially those made of aluminum, offer an affordable and low-maintenance option. They typically come in neutral colours and have a sleek, modern feel. Metal boxes with slotted sides will help with air circulation, while solid sides will be more effective at dampening sound. Ready-made metal shed kits are also available, offering more storage space.

Wooden Enclosures:

Wood is a versatile material for building enclosures. It is sound-dampening and weather-resistant. You can create a wooden wall enclosure by placing posts and attaching horizontal wood slats until the desired height is reached, leaving gaps between each slat for air circulation. Alternatively, you can build a wooden box around the equipment, which can also provide a mounting space for wall-attached equipment. Use pressure-treated wood or hardwood and be sure to stain, seal, or paint it to protect it from moisture and rot.

Functional Pool Equipment Covers with Hinged Lids:

Consider adding hinged lids or doors to your enclosure for easy access to the equipment. A hinged lid on the top of the box works well for smaller enclosures, while hinged doors on the front provide better access for larger setups. Combining both a lifting lid and hinged doors ensures maximum accessibility.

Spacious Storage Solutions:

For large in-ground pools with extensive equipment, consider a larger structure that resembles a shed. These can be designed to match the style of your home, from country-inspired to modern. Ensure proper ventilation and allow enough room for equipment maintenance and storage.

Compact Cover Solutions:

For smaller pools with compact pumps and filters, a small pool filter cover in the form of a chest made of wood or metal can be a good option. If your pool pump is in the middle of your yard, you can create a garden around it and use a faux rock cover to camouflage it.

Unconventional Designs:

Get creative and design a custom cover that matches your backyard decor and style. You can use the same fence panels used for a privacy fence to create a wall around your pool equipment, ensuring a seamless blend. Another option is to incorporate a pergola-style roof that extends beyond the box, providing a shady spot for lounge chairs.

These ideas offer both functionality and aesthetics, allowing you to maintain your pool equipment while enhancing the visual appeal of your pool area.

Pool equipment location and noise concerns

Pool equipment can be noisy, and many people are concerned about the sound level of their pool equipment. The noise level of pool equipment varies depending on the type of equipment, with some pumps being relatively quiet, while others can be as loud as an HVAC system. The location of the pool equipment can also impact the noise level, with equipment closer to the house or patio being more likely to be noticed.

There are several ways to reduce the noise level of pool equipment. One option is to install a variable speed or two-speed pump, which can be set to run at a lower speed during certain times of the day, reducing the noise output. Another option is to use a pool pump soundproofing enclosure or cover, which can help to absorb and resist sound, reducing noise pollution. These enclosures can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, wood, or vinyl, and can be customized to fit the specific size and model of the pool pump. Additionally, strategic placement of the pool equipment can help to minimize noise. For example, placing the equipment in an inconspicuous location, such as around the corner of the house or behind a shed, can help to reduce noise levels in certain areas.

When deciding on the location of pool equipment, it is important to consider not only noise concerns but also functionality and aesthetics. It is generally recommended to keep the equipment close to the pool to reduce the length of pipe runs and extend the life of the pump. Additionally, locating the equipment near the electrical panel can reduce wiring costs. However, it is also important to consider the visual impact of the equipment and find a balance between functionality and aesthetics.

Overall, while pool equipment can be noisy, there are several strategies that can be employed to reduce noise levels, including the use of variable speed pumps, soundproofing enclosures, and strategic placement of equipment. By considering noise concerns in conjunction with functionality and aesthetics, pool owners can create a functional and enjoyable pool area.

Pool equipment and municipal codes

The CDC, CPSC, ANSI, APSP, and ICC have all published resources regarding health standards and standards specific to residential and commercial pools. The CDC's Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) has been introduced to address the differences in pool regulations across states, and many state and local health departments are starting to adopt it.

When installing a pool, it is important to consider the location of the pool equipment. It should be placed in an inconspicuous spot, preferably at the house to reduce wiring costs, and close to the pool to minimise pipe length. The equipment should also be at the same level as the pool or lower to reduce strain on the pool pump.

Pool equipment can be hidden in a variety of ways, including using storage boxes, metal boxes, wooden enclosures, or faux rock covers. These covers can also help to dampen the sound produced by the equipment and protect it from the weather.

Frequently asked questions