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The Necessary Features That Make Your Pool Elite

When it comes to designing your dream pool, it’s not just about making it look beautiful—it’s about making sure it has all the right features to keep it running for years to come. Thankfully, our custom pool installers in Baltimore, MD, believe in going above and beyond with every pool we build. From state-of-the-art materials to cutting-edge technology, we incorporate everything you need to make your backyard oasis truly elite.

Circulation

The circulation system in your pool is crucial to keeping the water clean, clear, and properly filtered. Simply put, it’s the process that makes sure your pool water is constantly moving through the filtration system, allowing debris to be collected and the water to remain balanced. Without an effective circulation system, your pool can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae, making maintenance much harder.

At Elite Pools, we use only the best circulation systems. All of our pools are built with Jandy Variable Speed pumps, which are energy-efficient. Each system includes a minimum of two commercial-grade skimmers, three high-flow returns, never-lube valves, and safe main drains, all of which are independently run for customizable water flow control. The result? A pool that stays clean and is optimized for the best possible circulation.

Plus, since our pump is Energy Star-rated, you can even score rebates from most utility companies. The Jandy Variable Speed pump is the most efficient on the market, consistently outperforming competitors. This allows us to engineer your pool to achieve a 4-hour turnover time, which means clean, fresh water with minimal energy usage.

Filtration

Filtration is the backbone of a clean and healthy pool. It’s the system responsible for removing dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the water, making sure your pool stays crystal clear and safe for swimming. We equip every pool with an oversized Jandy Cartridge Filter, designed to handle between 340 to 580 square feet of dirt-loading capacity. This means you only need to clean the filter once per season, from the time you open your pool to the time you close it—giving you less time spent on maintenance and more time to enjoy your custom pool.

The Jandy CV Filter is built for performance and convenience, with features such as:

  • Inlet and outlet ports on the same level for improved hydraulic efficiency.
  • Zodiac Sweep Elbow for easy connection to a Zodiac pump, simplifying installation.
  • Exclusive Versa Plumb system for seamless integration with other Zodiac products.
  • Comfortable, easy-grip handles to make installation and cleaning effortless.
  • Clean/dirty indicator on the pressure gauge for easy monitoring.
  • Extra-large 2” drain port for simple debris cleaning.
  • Heavy-duty, anti-corrosion tank clamp and UV-resistant, high-impact tank for durability.
  • Universal unions (2” x 2 ½”) are included for versatile compatibility.
Sanitation

Every pool owner wants a clean, healthy pool that’s safe and inviting for their family and friends. That’s why we’ve chosen the Nature2 Fusion Soft System, an advanced solution that combines mineral technology with a saltwater system to take the guesswork out of sanitation.

The Nature2 Fusion Soft System works smarter, not harder, with features like:

  • Bacteria and algae control: The mineral system actively destroys bacteria and controls algae growth, making sure your pool water is as clean as it looks.
  • Pre-sanitization technology: Before the saltwater system even kicks in, the minerals have already eliminated harmful elements, using the same advanced technology trusted in bottled water sanitation.
  • Low maintenance: This system’s easy installation process and automatic salt-based sanitizer generation are designed to reduce your workload while maximizing cleanliness.
  • Durability and efficiency: Rated for up to 50 PSI and 100 GPM, it features automatic reversing polarity to keep the system running smoothly over time.
Cleaning

Keeping your pool clean shouldn’t feel like a chore, which is why Elite Pools recommends using the Polaris Alpha IQ Remote Robotic Cleaner. With over 40 years of innovation behind it, this cleaner combines advanced technology and powerful performance to give you a spotless pool with minimal effort. Here’s what makes it stand out:

  • Powerful Cleaning Performance:
    • Vortex Vacuum Technology delivers exceptional suction with less filter cleaning.
    • Thoroughly cleans your pool’s floor, walls, and tile line.
    • Equipped with a solid, non-pleated blade for aggressive scrubbing.
  • Smart Navigation & Customization:
    • SMART Cycle Cleaning Mode calculates the optimal cleaning time.
    • Sensor Nav System™ scans and measures your pool, adapting the cleaning process for efficiency.
    • Multiple cleaning modes, including waterline-only, allow for a customizable clean.
  • Convenience & Ease of Use:
    • Enhanced scheduling lets you set up recurring cleaning cycles.
    • Remote control with targeted spot cleaning provides extra attention to trouble spots.
    • Temperature display conveniently shows your pool’s water temperature.
  • Effortless Maintenance:
    • Large illuminated debris canister with a transparent window for easy monitoring.
    • The patented Easy Lift Removal System makes retrieving the cleaner lightweight and hassle-free.
    • Debris removal is as simple as shaking and spraying the canister—no mess, no fuss.
  • Ever-Evolving Pool Care:
    • Receiving automatic updates via Wi-Fi allows the Polaris Alpha IQ to evolve with your pool care needs.
Controls

Having complete control over your pool system can make owning a custom inground pool so much easier, and that’s exactly what the Aqualink® PDA and iAqualink™ systems provide. With the Aqualink PDA, you can manage everything from your pool’s temperature to its lights, jets, and cleaner with the touch of a button. It even includes automatic freeze protection, system lockout modes, and scheduled activation, making sure your pool stays efficient and your equipment is protected. Plus, automated filtration cycles and customizable lighting let you enjoy a sparkling clean pool that’s always ready for use while also saving on energy costs.

For even more flexibility, the iAqualink system lets you control your pool from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet, or any web-connected device. Whether you want to heat the spa before you get home or adjust the lights while on vacation, this system puts everything at your fingertips. Together, these control options make pool ownership stress-free.

Structural

Every Elite pool is meticulously engineered for durability, ensuring it stands the test of time. By using advanced construction techniques, like larger plumbing with 2” schedule 40 pipes, expanded manifolds, and upgraded steel and concrete materials, Elite pools deliver structural integrity that translates to a longer-lasting, more reliable pool.

Soil compaction, high-compressive strength PSI concrete, and thorough quality inspections ensure each pool is built to endure for many years, while eco-friendly design elements and advanced plumbing systems improve efficiency and sustainability. Elite pools also feature 3 high-flow returns, commercial-grade skimmers, and AVSC drains that outperform standard systems by effectively removing debris.

Beyond durability, Elite pools are designed with safety, convenience, and efficiency in mind. From automated control systems and never-lube valves with a lifetime warranty to GFCI-protected courtesy outlets and quick disconnects for added safety, every detail has been thoughtfully considered. Pools meet and exceed NSPI building and safety codes, while structural, plumbing, main drain, and pump warranties give peace of mind for years to come. Additional touches like oversized entry steps, a safety rope and floats, and a complete starter kit of chemicals ensure every pool is both functional and enjoyable from day one.

Safety

At Elite Pools, safety has always been a top priority. Every pool we build is carefully designed with the user in mind, and all components undergo rigorous safety inspections to make sure they meet or exceed standards. Main drains are compliant with VBG consumer protection laws, and specialty grates are equipped with proprietary hardware to prevent tampering, adding an extra layer of security for your pool.

A standout feature of Elite Pool is the AVSC Main Drain, which offers unmatched safety. The Anti-Vortex Single Channel Drain is the safest main drain on the marketing, exceeding VGB compliance and meeting the highest ASME/ANSI standards in the Unblockable Category. With dual protection provided by a safety baffle, the AVSC drain prevents any suction-related accidents. Its flush design allows for easy movement of automatic pool cleaners while also guaranteeing effective debris removal.

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Customer-Approved Backyard Bliss

“I can’t say enough good things about our decision to go with Elite Pools for our pool remodel. Mike the owner took the time to come out and make great suggestions with our remodel. Luis our project manager was exceptional to work with. He got back to us on a timely manner and made sure everything was done correctly and we were happy with the outcome. He was so polite and calm and took a lot of time explaining our new salt water system. They are far the best pool company in my area. I wish I would have used them to install our pool in the first place because the other company we used was a nightmare. These guys were so refreshing to work with and we have been enjoying our pool this summer and it looks amazing! Thank you!”

Dee & John K.

“Our pool project manager, Mike G, did an extraordinary job designing, building and supervising our pool, way beyond our expectations! We needed a pool with disability access and related features and of all the pool companies we interviewed, Mike really understood our needs and was involved and supervised all aspects of the pool, deck, patio, fence and ramp. The tiles he brought us and stamped concrete deck and patio turned out fantastic.
We have a beautiful pool that enhances our property. We highly recommend you have Mike supervise all aspects of the pool project, as he made sure everything got done correctly and beautifully. Our neighbor is so impressed with our dream pool, she is already working with Mike building her dream pool. He has delivered everything he promised and more.”

Russell R.

“We called several companies to help us with our pool plaster issue. We weren’t sure if it was a problem with the plaster itself or staining. Mike at Elite Pools was the only person/company that i spoke with out of probably 7-8, who gave me an honest answer, that my pool only needed an acid wash vs re-plastering. He could have recommended the more profitable option for him like those other companies did, but he gave me his honest opinion based on his experience, and then gave me a great price. His crew was able to come soon after we spoke, even during busy season, and Mike was there along with them to make sure it went smoothly. Not only that, but Mike has also gone above and beyond helping me get my pool going after his job was done. I highly recommend this company!”

Lindsay A.

“We were originally referred to Elite by a friend who does serious researching when planning any major home improvement task and were not disappointed. Elite installed our in-ground salt water pool about 9 years ago and they did an amazing job. We worked directly with Mark and he stepped us through the entire process and helped us create the best free-form design for our space and our budget. Unfortunately, over the years, we didn’t maintain the seals around the coping and water made its way under the coping stones and behind the tile causes tiles to pop and stones to loosen. We needed to have the coping stones reset and decided to change our accent tiles. Dustin provided a ton of tile options and did a great job managing the effort. It looks like a brand new pool.”

Kelly N.

Understanding Basic Pool Terminology

At Elite Pools, we know that diving into the world of pool ownership can feel overwhelming, especially when the conversation turns to all the technical terms. It’s easy to get lost in a sea of unfamiliar words or phrases, but fear not; we’re here to break it all down for you, making sure you fully understand the basics. After all, the luxury of having a pool should be paired with the knowledge to truly enjoy and care for it.

ACID

A chemical, which lowers the pH when added to the water

Acid Demand

Amount of acid required to lower pH and total alkalinity of pool water to correct level

Algae

Microscopic aquatic plant life, which can grow on pool surfaces or float freely in the water. Though harmless, algae discolor the water and indicate improper sanitation.

ALGAECIDE

Chemical used to kill or inhibit growth of algae

ALKALINITY

Various chemicals and salts in the pool water that increase pH

AVAILABLE CHLORINE

Free or combined chlorine used to disinfect pool water

BACKWASHING

Cleaning pool filter by reversing water flow

BROMINE

Chemical used for disinfecting spas mainly (in same family as chlorine)

CAVITATION

Water is boiling in a pump. The flow of water from the suction lines is restricted, which causes a vapor lock at the impeller. Commonly recognized by a rumbling noise in the pump.

CHLORAMINE

Chemical compound of nitrogen and hydrogen that combines with free chlorine in pool water. Chloramine causes burning eyes, skin irritation, and chlorine odor.

CHLORINE

Chemical used for disinfecting swimming pools

CHLORINE DEMAND

Amount of chlorine required to destroy bacteria in pool water

CHLORINE RESIDUAL

Amount of chlorine remaining in pool water after chlorine demand has been satisfied

CORROSION

Chemical reaction that causes deterioration of metal

CYANURIC ACID

(conditioner/stabilizer) acid used in pool water to prevent chlorine loss

DIATOMACEAOUS EARTH (DE)

White powder that is manufactured from microscopic skeletons of diatoms

DISSOLVED SOLIDS

Calcium, copper salts, magnesium and other minerals that are suspended in water

DPD

Chemical reagent that reacts with active chlorine/bromine and turns the water sample pink

FREE CHLORINE

Basic chlorine, not combined with any other chemicals, allowing it to be released immediately for disinfecting. This is usually the kind of chlorine used to superchlorinate.

Hardness

Measurement of dissolved solids in water

Muriatic acid

Dilute solution of hydrochloric acid used to lower alkalinity

ORTHOTOLIDINE (OTO)

Chemical reagent that reacts with total chlorine/bromine, and turns water sample yellow

pH

Used to describe acid/alkaline balance in pool water. A pH of 7 is neutral. pH values below 7 are acidic. pH values above 7 are basic. The recommended pH for swimming pool water is 7.2 to 7.8. Never allow pH to drop below 7.0 or go above 8.0.

PHENAL RED

Chemical reagent used to measure pH

PPM

Parts per million, the accepted measurement of a quantity of substance in water

REAGENT

Liquid or powder chemicals used to test concentrations of specific compounds in water

RESIDUAL

Amount of a compound existing in water, usually expressed as PPM

SCALE

Mineral deposits formed on pool surfaces, inside piping and on the filter as a result of high calcium hardness and high pH

SODA ASH

Sodium carbonate used to adjust the total alkalinity by increasing the pH

SUPERCHLORINATION

Heavy dose of chlorine added to pool water to “burn out/shock” nitrogen compounds when bacteria, algae or chloramine build-up cannot be reduced by normal treatment

TOTAL ALKALINITY (TA)

Measurement of alkaline chemicals in water. TA acts as a pH buffer. Too high of a TA prevents easy adjustment of pH. Low TA causes pH to change and fluctuate widely. Proper pool TA is 100 to 125 ppm.

TOTAL DISSOLVED SOLIDS

Total of dissolved material in the water. High total dissolved solids in pool water (over 1500 ppm) can cause poor sanitizer efficiency, cloudy water and odors.

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