Commercial pools are those used by the general public, whether in a town, community or organization. There are different considerations for a commercial pool than there are for smaller, residential models. This article will cover the basics of commercial pools, including the different types of commercial pools available, equipment and operation requirements and safety factors to keep in mind.

Types of Commercial Pools

The type of commercial pool will primarily be determined by who will be using the facility. Private commercial pools are those restricted to a particular home or neighborhood. These pools are usually only used by immediate residents and their guests. Semi-private commercial pools are generally owned by an organization or business. You can find semi-private commercial pools at hotels, athletic clubs or apartment complexes. Commercial pools are frequently owned by government agencies, such as a town, or by schools. These are often the largest types of commercial pools available and may include lap lanes or play features, depending on the primary use of the pool.

Maintenance Equipment

There is a plethora of equipment that is used to keep commercial pools running safely and efficiently. Equipment must be maintained on a daily basis to ensure it is operating properly. A surge chamber ensures that water levels in the pool remain consistent, no matter how many swimmers are in the pool at one time, or how much splashing removes water from the pool. Another essential piece of equipment is the slurry feeder, which pumps the water into the filters for cleaning. Some commercial pools can get away with a single, large filter, while others will require multiple filters to keep the water clean and safe.

Chlorinators sanitize the water, but too much of a good thing can be harmful to swimmers. Chlorine gas must be delivered to the water in the proper increments to ensure the water is sanitized safely. This process must be carefully monitored and regulated so that chemicals remain at the correct amounts throughout the swimming season. Regular maintenance is required to keep equipment running at peak levels. Most equipment for commercial pools is kept in an equipment room that is cleaned and maintained regularly for safety reasons. It is also important to install a sump pump in the equipment room to prevent flooding from occurring due to malfunctioning machinery.

Safety Considerations

Safety is a very important component in commercial pools. First aid equipment must be present at all times and rules surrounding the safety of commercial pools must be followed to the letter. This includes depth guidelines for diving boards as well as capacity guidelines for safe crowds. Many of these safety regulations are outlined in the building codes for a particular area, which should be scrutinized carefully before commercial pools are constructed or renovated. They may also be outlined in state regulations designed to protect all users of commercial pools and restrict liability for owners.

Commercial pools come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but all should follow these basic equipment and safety guidelines. By checking your commercial pool for proper equipment and safety measures, you can rest assured your family will enjoy a safe, enjoyable swimming experience.