Post #142431 by hewey on Mon, Feb 21, 2005 9:07 PM

The 'artists impression' pics look pretty sweet.

I work in a swimming pool shop so I hope i can give you some advice (Disclaimer: We do not construct pools, so this comes from a maintenance perspective more than anything.)

The plumbing for the filter/pump should be relatively easy. You only need a single suction line.

Are you going for a skimmer box (like most pools, a hole in the side at water level?). This allows you to suck stuff off the surface. A wet edge (like a grating running around the pool edge) is another option (probably more expensive too). But that would allow you to have it almost identical to your pics (that is, no lip or coping going around the water to make it look unnatural).

For the return line to the pool a simple valve as you said will give you better water control than Moses (well, not quite). Bear in mind that the waterfall will introduce more junk into the water (from the rocks), placing a larger demand on your chlorine. Day to day it is best to just have a normal return line.

May i suggest you look at spa style jets as a possible 3rd return line? A further return line will increase costs, but this could be good. Just two or three jets (like on the steps, or in your sunbaking section) and you get a massage. Do not have this as your main return line as the overall smaller size hole will be smaller than a normal return line, and place a strain upon your pump (this is what gives the pressure on the water coming out of the jets).

As far as the beach sections - if you are planning on using sand it will probably get all through the pool and be a bitch to keep clean. If you dont mind, then I wouldn't worry too much (as i said, my experience is in pool maintenance, so a lagoon/water feature is slightly different. However, i wouldnt reccomend the sand).

As far as filters I am not familiar with an 'inground filter'. I have not come across any myself, but i am in Australia. Make sure you have reasonable access and if possble cover pump and chlorinator to keep it out of the weather and everything will last longer - again leave room in this for maintenance.

I hope I have been of some use. If you have any other questions just ask

GOOD LUCK!