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Summer is going fast. But just because the kids are going back to school doesn’t mean that “fun in the sun” has to end …

If you act soon, there’s still time to install a beautiful in-ground swimming pool in your backyard!

Our entire team of professionals will work with you to meet your deadline—before the end of the 2018 swim season. The clock is ticking, so you have to act fast. But we’ll help you through every step of the process, including:

• Selecting the right pool for your backyard
• Surveying your property
• Getting permits from your local municipality
• Complete, professional installation – before temperatures begin to drop!

But that’s not the only reason to act now …

Special savings going on now!

Right now, we are offering a wide range of discounts during our In-Ground Pool Sale! Here are just a few of the great deals we’re offering:

1) Up to $3,400 OFF in-ground pool packages

Yes, really!

You can slash thousands off the cost of your in-ground pool when you purchase during our sale. Why wait until next year when prices go back up? Call us today to take advantage of this limited-time savings.

2) Up to 50% OFF optional accessories

That’s right. Many of our most popular pool accessories are up to HALF OFF during our In-Ground Pool Sale.

3) FREE solar blanket (up to $565 value)

Why pay when you don’t have to?

Right now, with purchases of select in-ground pool packages, we’re throwing in a free solar blanket to help you keep your pool water warm (AND save you money on energy).

4) FREE 2018 Pool Winterization (up to $325 value)

Let us winterize your pool, so you don’t have to!

Our pool service technicians will properly treat your pool and close it at the end of the season, so that it’s ready for swimming even sooner next year.

Backyard fun…even after school starts again

The start of the school year doesn’t have to mean the end of fun for you and your kids. Take advantage of our In-Ground Pool Sale, and we’ll get your pool installed before the end of the swim season.

Contact any Crystal Pools location for more details, and let’s get started on your dream pool!

Soaking in a hot tub is scientifically proven to benefit your health. From stress relief to muscle relaxation, hot tubs are good for both mind and body.

But since not all hot tubs are the same, it’s important to compare your options carefully. By selecting the right hot tub for you and your family, you can greatly increase your enjoyment AND maximize the benefits.

Here are a few things to consider:

SIZE

The size of your hot tub is perhaps the most important consideration, and it’s one of the key factors that will affect the price.

Hot tubs sizes are typically sized by the number of people who can sit inside it, i.e. a 4-person hot tub, 6-person hot tub, etc. To maximize your enjoyment, choose a size that’s a good fit for how many people will realistically use it on a regular basis. Leave room for immediate family and/or guests.

JETS

How many jets are there? More importantly, where are they placed?

If you want to maximize the benefits of hydro-massage, look for hot tubs with jets that are strategically positioned to benefit specific muscles. For example, some hot tubs are designed with multiple jets in and around each seat to massage your back, legs, arms and even your neck.

MATERIALS

Find out how your hot tub is made and what the different types of materials mean. You’ll discover this is a big difference between the big-name brands like Jacuzzi and lesser-known manufacturers.

The quality of the materials will directly affect how long your hot tub lasts and how it looks over time. Higher-quality materials will be more resistant to scratches, stains, UV rays and other damage.

SEATS

Are the seats ergonomically designed to contour to your natural body shape? Or is it just a flat bench?

People have different tastes and comfort preferences, which is why it’s a good idea to actually sit in a few different hot tubs before you buy. Get a feel for it; don’t just go by the pictures you see in a brochure. Also, consider how much space there is if multiple people sit in the hot tub. Will it be comfortably intimate or too cramped?

BRAND

When it comes to hot tubs, choosing a reputable brand is important. Stick to the names you know: Jacuzzi, HotSpring, Caldera, and so on.

These brands are known for quality and dependability. They’ve been refining and enhancing their hot tubs for years, so that today’s customers get the best possible product. Be wary of unknown brands or prices that seem too good to be true. You don’t want to get stuck with a hot tub that’s uncomfortable or breaks within a year after it’s installed.

EXTRA FEATURES

Do you need all the extra bells and whistles available in today’s top-of-the-line hot tubs? Maybe not—BUT, if you truly want to maximize your enjoyment, then don’t count out these features just yet.

Consider a feature like Jacuzzi’s Bluewave stereo system, for example. This lets you play music from your smartphone and lets you control it from a touchscreen display built into the hot tub—so you don’t have to bring your phone into the tub (your phone can be 30 feet away). This is an example of a great feature that is sure to enhance your hot tub experience.

Need help?

We’re happy to go over all your options, so you can find the right hot tub for your needs and budget. Contact your nearest Crystal Pools location today.

Putting an in-ground swimming pool in your backyard is an exciting decision that will bring years of enjoyment to your family. But if you’re just beginning to look at your options, then it’s important to set the right expectations.

As part of the installation process, you and your pool installers will need to make sure your backyard is properly prepped. Each backyard is different, so some spaces may require more steps than others.

Here are a few general requirements to expect as you begin this exciting journey:

Permits: Any pool plans will need to be cleared by your local municipality. This process makes sure that your proposed pool meets local code and will be safe for use. An on-site inspection by local officials is generally required.

Yard slope and grading: The existing slope of your yard may affect your pool design options. Grading may be needed to level the ground where your pool will be placed. More extensive grading will play a role in the construction costs of your pool.

Drainage: Proper draining is critical for every pool. When it rains, for example, you don’t want water running into your pool or onto your patio. Your pool installers will determine what draining methods will be needed to ensure water runs to a desired area away from the pool.

Utilities: If there’s any existing utility lines in your backyard, those will need to be removed and/or rerouted. As part of the initial site work, your installers will inspect for electrical, gas, septic and water lines.

Design, placement & usage: Should your pool be rectangular? Round? Angled? Curved? This decision actually depends on several factors, including how you’ll use the pool and what makes sense for your backyard. For example, active swimmers may prefer a longer, more rectangular pool that allows for swimming longer laps.

Excavation: Lots of dirt will have to go! And, there are numerous factors that can influence how long it takes to dig up your backyard: weather, soil conditions and the ease of access for construction vehicles.

Fencing: All swimming pools must be properly enclosed to prevent the risk of someone (particularly children) accidentally falling into the pool. Most municipalities require your fence to be at least four feet tall.

Landscaping: Attractive landscaping is the key to making your backyard pool look truly incredible. But keep in mind that premium landscaping is an added expense on top of construction costs. Consider how things like trees, shrubbery and hardscaping can beautify your space.

Completion time: How fast your pool is installed depends on a few factors, including the type of pool you choose. For example, one-piece fiberglass pools can be installed in as little as seven days, once the yard is prepped and the pool shell is ready. But things like weather, permits and inspections can also influence the completion time.

Have questions? We have answers! At Crystal Pools, we’re here to make the installation process as clear and simple as possible. Give us a call or stop by to get started on your dream pool today.

Thinking about adding a pool to your backyard? It’s a big decision for any family—but also an exciting one. As you begin your journey to becoming proud new pool owners, you’ll have several exciting things to consider.

From the overall look of your pool to how you’ll use it, you’ll want to make sure you compare your options carefully. With the right planning, your dream pool will soon be a reality!

Here’s what to consider:

1) Your ideal budget / range

The costs of an in-ground swimming pool can vary wildly, depending on several of the factors listed below, but also things like backyard grading and other construction costs.

Our friendly staff at Crystal Pools will walk you through everything you need to know, but it’s always a good idea to set a budget for how much you plan to spend. With a budget, you’ll know upfront what you can afford, so you can prioritize the various items on your wish list accordingly.

2) Pool type

Vinyl liner, fiberglass, concrete – these are the three main types of in-ground swimming pools. Each one has its own unique advantages and also plays a large role in the cost of your pool. Liners, for example, are a popular option for their low upfront cost and virtually limitless options for size and shape. Fiberglass, by contrast, has a higher upfront cost but requires lower maintenance, and the installation is generally way faster (because the pool arrives in a pre-made shell).

Educate yourself on all your options to determine the best fit for your backyard and budget.

3) Size

Are you dreaming of a large athletic pool that you can use for intensive swim training? Or something smaller and more elegant for the occasional summertime dip? There’s a lot to consider when choosing the size of your pool, including your budget, your backyard and your desired pool type.

4) Shape

This is another key design feature that is affected by things like pool type and budget. But also, the shape of your in-ground pool should be primarily determined by how you’ll use it. For example, if you plan to be swimming laps, you’ll probably want a wide rectangular or oval pool. If the pool will be more for casual swimming, relaxation and backyard enhancement, then consider a shape with more curves and angles.

5) Accessories

Don’t forget all the fun stuff! There are so many ways to make your pool unique with things like diving boards, slides, fountains and so on. Be sure to check out all your options and use your budget to help prioritize the top items on your wish list.

6) Landscaping features

As you browse photos of swimming pools, you’ll notice that the most gorgeous ones are never surrounded by barren landscapes. They’re beautifully intermingled with shrubs, trees, water features and lighting. Landscaping the space around your pool is the key to making it a showstopper. But it can also balloon your budget. As you plan your swimming pool, be sure to account for the costs of using a professional landscaper.

7) Timeline for completion

How soon do you want to be able to take a dip? Crystal Pools tends to book out 3-4 months in advance for the start of installation. Install time can take 3-6 weeks. There are numerous other factors that will influence installation time, so you’ll want to ask about that as you begin comparing your options.

Let’s chat about your dream pool!

At Crystal Pools, we look forward to discussing your pool plans, and we’re happy to answer any questions you have. Contact us today to get started on your dream pool.

When it comes to exercise, few things benefit your body quite as well as swimming and aquatic fitness. But not everybody has access to a swimming pool or the space for one in their backyard.

Thankfully, an Endless Pools Swim Spa offers the perfect solution.

A swim spa is your own personal swimming pool, in a compact design that’s not much bigger than some hot tubs. But unlike a traditional spa, a swim spa is equipped with a hydraulically powered propulsion system—a.k.a. a swim machine—which allows you to swim in place. It feels just like you’re swimming in open water, and you can even control the “speed” with a waterproof remote.

Let’s take a closer look at how these brilliant little pools can exercise your body (and mind).

Low-impact workouts for all ages & skill levels

Swim spas aren’t just for professional swimmers – they’re for everyone! We all know that running and even walking can be rough on the knees and back, especially for aging bodies. A swim spa removes the impact, allowing you to work out your legs, arms and other muscles in a comfortable, private setting.

Physical rehabilitation

If you have an injury or physical ailment, an Endless Pools Swim Spa can aid in rehabilitation and recovery. Swim spas are often recommended by physicians as an effective way to rebuild strength and stamina. Beyond swimming, simply moving around and doing aerobic exercises in a swim spa can help reduce pain and swelling, improve flexibility and promote better blood circulation.

Performance training

Active swimmer? Competitive athlete? No matter what your sport, a swim spa can help you up your game. A swim spa allows for targeted training, allowing you to focus on different strokes and exercises that work various parts of your body. No turns and stopping, like in a traditional pool. You can keep going, pushing your body and endurance as hard as you choose. This is why swim spas are popular with athletes in numerous sports, including tennis, motorsports, basketball, triathlons and more.

Treadmill workouts It’s not just about swimming. An Endless Pools Swim Spa can also be equipped with a hydraulically powered underwater treadmill. This gives you all of the cardiovascular benefits of walking—without the rough-on-the-knees impact of land-based exercise.

Therapeutic value

Numerous studies have shown the therapeutic effect of relaxing in warm water. So whether you’re doing some simple, stress-free aerobics or simply soaking up some “me time,” you’ll come out of the spa feeling more relaxed and refreshed.

Get more information on an Endless Pools Swim Spa

See how you can benefit from an Endless Pools Swim Spa. Contact any Crystal Pools location, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions!

Summer is coming, we promise!

While it’s a little too early to open your pool, we believe it’s never too early to start planning. The more preparations you do now, the sooner you’ll be able to open the pool when temperatures finally begin to rise.

Remember: it’s a good idea to wait until daytime temperatures are consistently reaching 70 degrees before you open your pool. In our region, temps can still drop below freezing well into March. So, in general, most swimming pool openings shouldn’t begin until April.

That said, now is a good time to make sure you have all the right chemicals and supplies. Here’s a quick list of steps you can take now, long before you open the pool.

1. Take inventory of your pool supplies.
   By now, your pool has been closed for several months. So you’ve probably forgotten what supplies you have or maybe even where they are. If temperatures aren’t too frigid outside, then it’s a good time to explore your pool shed and take stock of what you have.
2. Stock up on what you need.
   Head over to any Crystal Pools location to grab the items you need. We’ve got all-in-one Pool Opening Start-Up Kits, or you can choose from individual supplies like tablet chlorine, granular shock, pH increasers and reducers, filters, filter cleaners, water test kits, liner cleaners and more.
3. Organize all your supplies.
   Where are the drain plugs? What happened to the skimmer basket? One of the most common frustrations when opening the swimming pool is not being able to find the supplies that you know you have. That’s when the pool opening turns from a relatively easy task to an all-weekend job. You can save yourself a ton of trouble by finding and organizing all your pool supplies now. If you’ve just stocked up on supplies, put them in a clean, neat and well-organized area, so you don’t have to go searching for anything on pool opening day.
4. Clean ladders, boards and other accessories.
   If you didn’t do this last fall, now’s the perfect time. Give a good cleaning to all your various pool accessories, like floats, ladders, handrails, diving boards and pool fountains. That will save you some steps on pool opening day, so you can install them right away.
5. Review our Pool Opening Checklists. 
   If you plan to open your pool by yourself, now is a good time to refresh your memory on everything you need to do, so there are no surprises on pool opening day.
   Here are all the steps you’ll need to follow:
   In-Ground Pool Opening Guide
   Above-Ground Pool Opening Guide

Remember, the more steps you can do now, the more time you’ll save for when it’s time to open the pool. You’ve still got several weeks. So start planning now and keep those warm thoughts of summer!

A hot tub is one of the most rewarding investments you can make, but it’s critical that you use it properly and keep it well maintained.

Below, we’ve included an essential list of Hot Tub Don’ts: things you should never do if you want to ensure your safety and make your hot tub last for years to come.

Sure, some of these may seem obvious, but they need to be said. Like deep-frying an unthawed turkey (don’t do it!), some people may be confused about what’s safe vs. what’s really, really foolish.

So, let’s go over some of these critical tips to make sure you don’t make a mistake you’ll regret later.

1) Don’t leave kids unattended.

When kids are using the hot tub, an adult should be with them at all times. Accidents can and do happen. Younger children are especially at risk of drowning in water—and they do, every year, sometimes in only a few inches. So the risks are even greater in a hot tub. Young children can also become overheated in a hot tub, so it’s important to monitor them the entire time. Hot tubs should also be properly covered and fenced in to ensure that kids cannot climb in unnoticed.

2) Don’t dive in. Don’t jump in. No cannonballs. No horseplay.

A hot tub is not a swimming pool. Jumping into the water poses a serious risk for injury. Similarly, there should be no horseplay—all it takes is one little slip to twist an ankle, fracture an arm, cause head trauma, and so on.

Aside from the physical dangers, jumping and splashing will waste water and could damage the hot tub.

3) Don’t turn off the power with a hot tub full of water.

This is especially true in winter, but it applies to warmer months too. In winter (or even fall), freezing water can do a ton of damage to your hot tub. And in the warmer months, it’s way more efficient to keep your hot tub at a steady temperature, rather than letting it cool between each use.

4) Don’t use it during a storm.

Lightning, folks. Do we really have to explain this one?

5) Don’t keep it running if you’re not adding chemicals.

If you want to turn your hot tub into a science experiment, go ahead. By not maintaining the water, your hot tub will quickly turn into a swamp. The mess will be gross, sure, but also very hard to clean and damaging to the hot tub too.

6) Don’t raise the temperature above 104° F.

All new hot tubs have a max temperature of 104° F for a reason: anything higher becomes dangerous. Manufacturers, dealers, and global safety commissions are all on the same page about this, which is why new hot tubs can’t be set higher than 104. If for some reason yours can, don’t do it.

7) Don’t put foam, shampoo or bubbles in the hot tub.

Sure, it sounds nice. But your hot tub is not intended to be used as a bubble bath. Adding soaps and suds of any kind could cause costly damage to your hot tub.

Also, it’s a good idea to shower before hot tubbing. Certainly don’t get in if you’re covered in dirt, thinking the hot tub will clean you off. Remember, you’re not draining the water regularly like you do with a bathtub, and the filters can only handle so much grime.

One of the best reasons to purchase a hot tub is to experience to the numerous health-enhancing benefits of hydrotherapy. But what is it exactly, and how does it work?

When shopping for hot tubs and spas, you’ll hear manufacturers use terms like:

• Hydrotherapy
• Water therapy
• Hydromassage
• Hydropathy
• And so on

From the term alone, you’ve probably guessed it has something to do with water (hydro) and its therapeutic properties. But without context, you may not realize just how beneficial hydrotherapy can be.

Hydrotherapy is NOT simply a marketing buzzword created by hot tub manufacturers. It’s a proven, research-validated treatment for relieving physical pain and stress.

What to know

When it comes to hot tubs, there are three essential components to hydrotherapy:

• Hot water
• Buoyancy
• Massage (provided by the jets)

When the water in a hot tub is at least 95 degrees Fahrenheit, it helps to raise your body temperature and increase blood circulation.

The water adds buoyancy. When you soak at neck-level, your body weight is reduced by up to 90 percent! This significantly eases pressure on muscles and joints, while also giving you the relaxing feeling of weightlessness.

4 ways your body benefits

You can benefit from hydrotherapy whether you suffer from joint and muscle pain or not. Soaking in hot water has been an effective form of therapy for thousands of years.

Here’s what it does:

• Eases tension on joints and muscles
• Provides all-over support for sore or tired limbs (great for the end of a work day, or when you wake up feeling stiff in the morning)
• Decreases swelling and inflammation
• Increases oxygen and circulation in blood cells
• Alleviates discomfort

Additionally, if your hot tub has jets positioned in the right place, your muscles will benefit even further from the massaging sensation.

How it feels

It’s no secret … hydrotherapy makes you feel better.

You’ll notice the effects on your muscles and joints, and also on your mind. Soaking in hot water is proven to reduce stress. It helps to clear your mind and put you at ease. It’s not purely psychological either. The physical benefits—improved oxygen intake, blood circulation, looser muscles—all play direct roles in relieving your stress.

What to look for

Some hot tubs are designed more for hydromassage than others. It all has to do with how many jets it has and where they’re placed.

Select models from Jacuzzi, for example, have a feature called TargetPro, which lets you personalize the massage type by adjusting the direction and intensity of the jet stream.

Jets can be positioned in several areas, including:

• Back
• Neck
• Legs
• Hands
• Feet

Typically, the more jets, the higher the price, so keep that in mind as you compare your options.

Have questions?

Our knowledgeable staff at Crystal Pools is happy to answer your questions. Give us a call and let us help you find the perfect hot tub for your needs and budget.

2017-2018 Hot Tub Pricing Guide

How much does a hot tub cost? Well, the simple answer is: it depends on your hot tub. A bare-bones rotationally-molded hot tub, at the absolute lowest end of the spectrum, can cost around $2,500. At the other end, the best portable hot tubs commercially available might exceed $16,000. The reason there’s such a large difference is that there is a broad range of hot tub sizes, features, materials, designs, and performance available.

Pricing can also vary based on warranty, ongoing service, and customer location. So basically the answer is that the price of your hot tub depends on what you want in your hot tub. Do you value low energy bills, powerful jets, and durable materials? Do aesthetic considerations, like a streamlined and comfortable design, multicolored lighting, and waterfalls make a big difference to you? Here’s a quick guide to the major features available in different spas that can affect their price:

Hot Tub Materials

Lower-end hot tubs are typically made of rotationally-molded plastic. These spas are easier to transport and install than higher-end acrylic models, and are less expensive to produce. However, the higher-priced acrylic is stronger, lasts longer, and insulates better than rotationally-molded plastic. At the low end, some hot tubs have no insulation at all. Better hot tubs have at least one type of insulation, while the best hot tubs use multiple types of insulation, including a full foam that doubles as structural support. This is more expensive than using a single type of insulation, but is more energy efficient. That increased energy efficiency can actually save money in heating costs over the years. High-end exterior siding is resistant to the effects of sun, wind, rain, and snow, while top-of-the-line interior surfaces are resistant to scratches, stains, and sun damage. So, if you know you want to enjoy your hot tub for years and years, it might make sense for you to invest upfront in high-quality, durable materials.

Higher-end spas like the Utopia Tahitian® feature acrylic shells that are durable, fade-resistant, and insulate well.

Your hot tub dealer will be your partner through your entire spa experience, from installation to maintenance years down the road.

Hot Tub Warranties and Service

Not all hot tubs come with quality guarantees from their manufacturers. While these may be less expensive up front, should the hot tub fail because of a defect, the customer will be forced to pay for repairs or purchase a new one at full price. A good hot tub warranty will cover the product for five to ten years after purchase, ensuring that its owners can enjoy their spa without any cause to worry. Likewise, premium and luxury hot tubs can come with comprehensive service agreements from your dealer, including delivery, installation, relocation, water quality testing, repairs, maintenance, and cleaning. While hot tubs without service agreements are less expensive, you may end up paying the difference in the time and labor you must put in to keep a low-end spa running smoothly. Simply put, the easier, quicker, and more effective your hot tub is to use, the more likely you are to want to use it regularly. By keeping your water clean and safe with regular maintenance or an in-line water care system, you’ll be making sure your spa continues to be a regular, relaxing part of your everyday life.

We’ve been talking for awhile about all the different components that make up a spa. But a spa is more than the sum of its parts. It’s an experience that you will share and enjoy—hopefully for years to come. When choosing the right hot tub, picture yourself soaking in it early on a weekend morning five years from now, or hosting summer barbecues with your friends over and over again through the years. Just like those you plan on enjoying it with, your hot tub is going to be with you for a long time. Find one you’re going to want to spend a long time with.

Every great relationship starts with an introduction. To get acquainted with our current models, take a look through the luxury and premium spa lines offered by CalderaⓇ and download our brochure.

Article Courtesy of Caldera Spas and published online at www.calderaspas.com For more information or to shop any of these hot tubs, visit one of Crystal Pools three showrooms in Lancaster, Elizabethtown/Hershey or Mechanicsburg.

A hot tub offers numerous benefits for both mind and body. But with so many styles and brands to choose from, it’s important to know what to look for.

As temperatures drop, many homeowners will be considering adding a hot tub to their backyards. During the fall and winter seasons, there’s nothing like stepping into a deliciously warm, bubbly hot tub. Sitting in a hot tub is a proven way to relieve stress, relax your muscles and ease joint pain. The deep relaxation can have a positive effect on your blood pressure and your quality of sleep.

But if you’re not careful about what hot tub you buy, your investment could become a headache, instead of a haven.

Don’t worry—it’s easy to choose the perfect hot tub when you know how. Here are 5 things to consider.

1) Brand
Not all hot tubs are created equal. Before you consider any features of a hot tub, you must narrow your options to established, well-rated brands. A hot tub is a big investment. You don’t want to be kicking yourself in a year or two for buying some cheaply made product at a big-box store.

Hot tubs will not last if they are not well made. Stick to brands that have been building and improving hot tubs for decades, like HotSpring, Jacuzzi, Caldera, and Hot Spot, to name a few. By choosing a top brand, you know you’re getting a hot tub that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

2) Size
Make sure it has enough seats! Hot tubs come in a wide range of sizes, from two-person to twelve or even higher. A popular size is 6-7-person. Even if your family is smaller, you’ll want to have room for friends to come over (hot tub party, anyone?). But don’t go overboard, either. Larger hot tubs require more water and use more energy to keep hot. So think twice about buying one of those huge hot tubs, unless you know you’ll be filling it with people all the time.

3) Jets
Pay attention to the number of jets and where they’re located. More jets doesn’t necessarily mean the hot tub is “better,” but it could mean that it offers a powerful hydro-massage experience.

Some hot tubs have most of the jets focused on the back, and that’s fine. But if you want full-body hydrotherapy, look for options that also have jets positioned at the legs, feet, hands and neck.

4) Comfort
There’s nothing wrong with sitting in a hot tub before you buy. In fact, you should. Hot tubs are designed with different seats, different curves and comfort features. One may feel like the seat doesn’t quite match the natural curve of the back. Another may feel more comfortable because of arm rests. You won’t know until you sit in it, so be sure to do that before you put down the deposit.

5) Warranty
The best manufacturers (and their installers) stand by their products. Look for hot tubs that come with warranties, to be sure that any unexpected problems are covered. Pay attention to what the warranties cover and for how long.

Have questions? Give us a call!

Our team at Crystal Pools is happy to go over all your options. Learn more about the hot tubs we offer, or give us a call.