Author: Platinum Team

Within this post, we’ll take a look at a typical pool system. What are all those parts, and what do they do? What’s covered in our home warranties, and what’s not covered?

A quick snapshot of common pool components

What are the main components of a typical pool system, and what do they do?

There are a lot of parts to a pool system. While each pool is unique, some of the biggest players include:

Skimmer –The skimmer assists in pool cleaning by skimming water and capturing floating debris (leaves, flower petals, dirt, twigs, dead insects and oil). Skimmers should be cleaned daily during swim season.

Timer –The timer automates the functions of the pool. It also allows the pool equipment to be more energy efficient and aids in prolonging the the life of the system.

Filter – The pool filter removes debris and oxidized material from the pool’s water. It also can provide circulation and distribute chemicals within the pool, preventing formation of algae. The three main types include:

1. Diatomaceous Earth (DE) filter – Diatomaceous Earth is a white powder made up of the microscopic skeleton of Diatoms, an ancient, subaquatic creature. Under high magnification these skeletons resemble sponges. DE filters are the most efficient type of pool filter. Annual service on the filter is needed to clean the filter grids.

2. Sand filter – Sand filters are recommended for pools with trees nearby. Dirt, pollen and plant material can clog other types of filters. To prevent clogging, pool water is filtered through the sand. Larger particles are trapped before the water is recirculated back to the pool basin.

3. Cartridge filter – This filter is similar to a DE filter. Water is instead filtered through fine pleated mesh. Backwashing is not used in this type of filter.

Heater – Some pools have a heater to warm the water within the pool. The three main types include:

1. Convection Heaters –Like a convection oven, this type of gas pool heater circulates heat. Convection heaters rely on a large flame to heat a constant stream of hot, flowing water.

2. Tank Heaters – Tank heaters use a small flame to heat a large volume of water. For some regions, they can be cost effective. Tankless models are eco choices also.

3. Coil / Flash Heaters – Coil/flash heaters are the most common type of gas heater. A flame heats a coil through which a small, fast-moving stream of water passes.

Auto Leveler – When water evaporates from the pool, an auto leveler will keep the pool filled to a certain depth at all times.

Chlorinators – Chlorinators automatically feed chlorine directly into the pool instead of running it through the filter first. This protects the filter from chlorine corrosion. It also eliminates the need for a floater with chlorine pucks.

Return – The return allows filtered water to return to the swimming pool. It can also aid in keeping debris off the bottom of the pool, if adjusted properly.

Pool Pump – The pump contains an electric motor and impeller which pulls the water through the filter and back out through the inlet.

Booster Pump – The booster pump is an independent pump from the main circulation pump. It draws water from the circulation plumbing and is used to power the cleaner by way of a dedicated clearer line.

Valves – Valves regulate the flow of water or air. There are quite a few types of valves:

1. Backwash Valve – These come in two types:

• Push-Pull are simple to operate and mount to the bulkhead of the side of a Sand or D.E. Filter.
• Multiport also mount to the bulkhead on the side of a Sand or D.E. filter. They can also be a top mount style.

2. Gate Valve – Gate valves are very similar to a garden hose spigot. The center of the valve may require repacking after continued use and age.

3. Ball Valve – Ball valves are a common and inexpensive valve. Ball valves are replacements for old brass gate valves. They are not a serviceable valve and can easily break. If the valve does break, it must be replaced and cannot be repaired.

4. Combination Valve – The most common type of a combination valve is called a Jandy valve. It allows for easy access to the internal components of the valve as well as allows installation flexibility based on the needs for the specific pool.

Automation System - Controllers can be used to control the filter cycle, chemical additions, water temperature, water level, pool sanitizing equipment, outdoor lighting, safety equipment, pool cleaning, pool covers and other automated equipment.

When ordering your warranty, how do you ensure pool coverage?
Pool coverage is optional, additional coverage that must be selected when you order your home warranty. This coverage is available for built-in pools and spas only.

If your pool and spa share common equipment, both are covered within the single pool/spa add-on. If they have separate pumps and filtration systems, then only the pool system is covered. Optional additional coverage may be purchased for the separate spa system.

What is covered under a home warranty?
In order to receive any pool coverage, you must select the optional coverage package when ordering your warranty.

Some of the main items covered within the built-in pool/spa coverage include the main circulation pump/motor, heater, valves, gaskets, timers and auto levelers.

For complete details, be sure to look at our terms and conditions.

What isn’t covered under a home warranty?
Some of the main items pool/spa coverage does not cover include filters, in-floor cleaning systems, lights and underground pipes.

For a comprehensive look at what isn’t covered, be sure to look at our terms and conditions.

What regular maintenance is required to keep your warranty valid?
To keep your warranty valid, be sure to perform regular maintenance.

• Skim debris, and clean out baskets
• Vacuum pool, and brush walls and tile
• Clean pool filter
• Check and maintain water level
• Maintain pool chemicals within range
• Report leaks immediately
• Run pool pumps 1 hour per every 10 degrees of ambient temperature
• If applicable, clean salt cells with muriatic acid

Are saltwater pool systems covered?
We do offer saltwater pool system coverage. In order to receive this coverage, be sure to select for the “saltwater pool system” add on when you order your warranty. This optional coverage must be selected by in addition to regular pool/spa coverage. The saltwater pool system option covers the cell plates as long as they have been properly maintained.

If you have questions regarding coverage, please give us a call at 1.800.871.2339.

And, if you’re looking to keep your pool in top shape, be sure to take a look at these related blog posts: 10 Tips to Maintain Your Pool and Pool Pump Maintenance Tips.

This post is part of our Life at Home series. Each month, we explore different thinking, techniques or tools related to the concept of a home and what it means to live well in ours.
Goals are glorious. There are crazy statistics out there affirming the fact that the setting of a goal increases the likelihood of its achievement. So, we wisely set and achieve them in many areas of our lives.
Home ownership is realm in which goals show up too. Which room will be the next to re-do? What project will inch your home closer to a goal? Let’s repaint that. Let’s refinish that. Or, let’s move. Some days it feels like everyone else is busy working on some amazing D-I-Y project for their home, molding theirs into a more Pottery Barn-esque picture or moving into some impressive estate. While you… frankly, you’re just hoping your kids will put their toys away for once. And, that the laundry pile will stop growing. That’d be nice too.
So, the goals for our homes -- they are good to have. And, the D-I-Y projects are fun too. But, sometimes, all those things become a burden -- another item on a to-do list that’s entirely too long. If you find yourself in that latter camp -- the one who’s just trying to keep up -- consider this a dose of encouragement to let go the need to set another goal or achieve something else. Of all the arenas of your life, at least cut yourself some slack at home. There, if nowhere else, you should find a sense of rest, not a need to do or be more.
Perhaps your home is just fine as it is. Totally messy. Imperfect. Even with the outdated furniture. And, the chipped paint. Maybe today it’s okay to choose to let go of the need to change something else or plan something new. Maybe it’s time to take those goals you feel pressured to set, and toss them out the window. And maybe, just maybe, that will change your day for the better… allowing you to move through your home and your life with a bit lighter load.

This post is part of our At Home In Metro Phoenix series. Each month, we explore local businesses, attractions, events and people that call our wonderful community home.

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It’s hard to imagine a world without music. Quite frankly, if there was such a place, we wouldn’t want to live in it. What would the tough days be like without bluesy ballads to remind us we’re not alone or catchy pop favorites to bring a smile to our faces?

Our love of music made the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) a worthy destination. This five-year-old Valley museum is touted as “the world’s only global instrument museum.” With 6,000 instruments on display from about 200 countries/territories around the world, there’s much to explore.

The museum itself is divided into several major sections including: an artist gallery, showcasing a handful of famous musicians and their one-of-a-kind instruments; an experience gallery, giving folks hands-on interactions with instruments; and a geographical gallery, offering a tour of instruments, both ancient and modern, from around the world.

The experience is quite interactive, capitalizing on audio and video to help tell the story. Individual audio headsets are included with admission to give you the chance to hear what the instruments on display sound like. (Good move, MIM. Can you imagine a roomful of visitors and chaotic noise?)A few hours at the MIM remind you -- styles do differ dramatically around the globe, but music has a big presence across cultures. We left a bit in awe of the influence music has throughout such a diversity of times and places.

Beyond the museum and collection itself, the MIM also contains a world-class concert hall that hosts performers from around the world. We recently had the chance to enjoy a piano performance in the intimate venue and learned that there (a) wasn’t a bad seat in the house and (b) acoustics are, of course, impressive and taken very seriously in the concert hall.

Next time you’re looking for a weekend activity or chance to catch some inspiring live music, consider paying the MIM a visit.

Visit

MIM 

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4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85050 • 480.478.6000

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This post is part of our Life at Home series. Each month, we explore different thinking, techniques or tools related to the concept of a home and what it means to live well in ours.
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Today is another typical Monday. The list of to-dos for the week feels a little daunting. The number people who need your attention feels a bit overwhelming. And, the assignments from your boss won’t stop growing… as with the list of items needing cleaning around the house.
Yes, today is another typical Monday. But, who says it can’t also be far more than that?
The difference between a mundane Monday and a meaningful one often lies in our mindset. There are choices we make -- seemingly ordinary ones -- that determine whether each day feels significant or holds any importance.
That number-crunching that needs to be done for your boss? You can decide to begrudgingly wade through each moment of it, or you can grab your headphones and work to some energizing and relaxing tunes. Sure, you didn’t save the world by doing so. But, your elevated mood lets you bring a more positive energy to those around you.
And, when it gets to dinnertime, you can resign yourself to another predictable meal. Or, you can take the 10 extra minutes to try out the recipe for that homemade salsa you’ve been dying to test-drive. No, you didn’t transform into a celebrity chef overnight, but you did give your creativity muscles some needed TLC, which lets you bring a more innovative, vibrant spirit to all the other things you do.
Transforming today. That notion might sound like too much to tackle… especially on a Monday. But, it likely won’t take so much effort as you first assume. Yes, some little doses of awareness and intentionality are helpful. But, your choices don’t have to be all that dramatic. And, your investment of time doesn’t have to be massive either.
Just pick a small step. No need to bite off more than you can chew. Today is another typical Monday. So, what are you going to do to add just a bit of magic to your day and the day of those around you?
 
 
 

Take the comfortable, down-to-earth vibe of an inviting home and a dash of hip local scene and you have Phoenix Public Market Cafe. This gem lies in the heart of Phoenix on Central Avenue.

It’s an appealing spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, drinks… you name it. The cafe’s homestyle cooking features quality ingredients sourced from the local community. With hearty favorites like rotisserie chicken to intriguing dishes like the roasted cauliflower plate, Phoenix Public Market Cafe manages to cater to a variety of needs in a way that appears natural and almost effortless. The menu is clearly marked to suit all dietary preferences with dishes to delight all parties among us -- be they meat-lovers, vegans or gluten-free folks.

Once you visit, the tasty food and charming personality of this cafe will have you back again and again. Or, perhaps it’s that ridiculously-alluring bakery case that’s responsible. Once glance at those treats, and it’s hard to stay away.

On a recent visit, we thoroughly enjoyed their comfortable patio, tucked behind the restaurant with a captivating view of downtown. The magical quality of the engaging environment left us quickly forgetting it was the middle of the intense summer in Phoenix. And, we found ourselves impressed by the cafe’s ability to do the simple things quite well. An unassuming side of black beans brought immediate delight to our tastebuds. (We’re still not sure what it was about that preparation that was so darn good. Just do yourself a favor and get some when you go.)

If you’re familiar with St. Francis restaurant on Camelback, it might be worth noting -- the cafe is created by the same team. And, Phoenix Public Market’s lot is also the site of an Open Air Farmer’s Market (Saturday mornings and Thursday nights) and Food Truck Friday. Whether you live near downtown or are looking for an outing beyond your neighborhood, we recommend giving Phoenix Public Market Cafe a visit.

Your washer breaks down in the middle of a load and floods your basement. Your refrigerator fries, and you’re trying to figure out how to save food before it spoils. A power outage short-circuits your microwave oven, and your range won’t work properly, either.

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This post is part of our Life at Home series. Each month, we explore different thinking, techniques or tools related to the concept of a home and what it means to live well in ours.
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Have you ever noticed yourself living someone else’s life? Or, at least, not living the one you really desire? We’ll be the first to admit -- it’s unfortunately quite easy to get swept in that trap.
You live in this neighborhood because it’s the hot neighborhood to live in right now. You’re part of that committee because the status makes you look pretty dang good to others. Your kids are involved with all those extracurricular activities because that leads to a good college, career and successful life, of course.
But, if you’re honest, you’d really rather live in that other area of town… or heck, maybe even another city. The committee meetings are a total drag, and you dread them every month. And, you’re absolutely sick of carting your kids to all those activities. All that does is leave no time for family meals around the table and real conversations.
You’re not living the life you desire. So, how do you correct course? First, ponder words from the ancient philosopher Seneca… ;) Really though, he does have some wisdom to offer here -- “When a man does not know what harbor he is making for, no wind is the right wind.”
You have to define your harbor. Otherwise, you get swept up into all those random winds and nothing seems to satisfy or help you live a life that lights you up. You must take time to consider -- what do you desire?
To tackle that, we recommend looking to a concept we were introduced to by author Danielle LaPorte. Though we’ve admittedly still not read her book The Desire Map, she shares a powerful concept worth chewing on. Instead of setting specific, yet somewhat random goals, she suggests you start by considering how it is you want to feel.
Yes, it may be tough to give yourself permission to give that much weight to the way you want to feel, but we challenge you to do it anyways. Do you want to feel… alive, passionate, aligned, brave, joyful, grateful, powerful, attractive, rich, abundant…? You choose whatever descriptors fit you best.
Those desired feelings or core values become a filter for the decisions, activities and relationships in your life. When you get off track, you can use them as a compass to get back on course. For instance, you may realize you want to feel genuine, vibrant and connected as you move through life. But, living in that neighborhood is making you feel like a fraud, not serving your desire to feel genuine. Attending those meetings is making you feel lifeless, not vibrant. And the lack of real family time with your kids is making you feel distanced, not connected. The changes that need to be made are clear.
So, take a few minutes to consider what those feelings might be for you. Start to pay attention to feelings that light you up and those that bring you down. Once you define those feelings, think about how you can actively align your life with them. What would help you feel more < insert your descriptor >? What do you need to stop doing to feel more < descriptor of your choice >?
And, if you’re having trouble wrapping your head around this concept, we encourage you to do one of two things (A) dig a little deeper into Danielle’s work or (B) recognize this concept may not your thing. If you choose the former, we’re cheering for you as you dig in. And, if you choose the latter, we take no offense. Recognizing what doesn’t work for you is a step on the way to living the life that truly aligns with you.
Whatever path you choose, live the life that’s true to you.

This post is part of our At Home In Metro Phoenix series. Each month, we explore local businesses, attractions, events and people that call our wonderful community home.

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If you mentioned the word “summertime” to a group of people and captured the images in their minds, you might come across a good handful of idealized outdoor scenes -- walking along the beach, skipping through open fields, shooting hoops in the driveway.

We’re big fans of the outdoors. But, I’d wager we’re not the only ones looking for a few more activities that involve a break from the outdoor heat. And, if we could simultaneously find activities didn’t break the bank? Well, that’d just be the perfect recipe for a lovely late August day.

That beautiful combination came to life for us in a recent trip to Scottsdale Civic Center Library. True, it’s not the sexiest local find. It’s been around since the 60’s, so it’s far from new. But, seeing that this local library has to much explore, it’s a shame to overlook it just because it lacks the new luster of trendier local spots.

The library equates to an endless number of books, movies, and cd’s right at your fingertips. And, unlike accessing those things through say Amazon.com, at the library, they are free. (And, if you were a fan of our recent post about The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, you’ll find the library also can save you from acquiring things that you simply don’t need to own).

Maybe this one speaks most to the nerdy bookworms among us. But, keep in mind, there’s something to be found for the chef, music fanatic and movie watcher too. That cookbook you’ve been wanting to spend some time with? It’s yours for three weeks. That album you’ve been dying to listen to? Pop it in your car, enjoy it for a few weeks and return it before you get to that point at which it grows stale.

And a not-so-insider, yet helpful tip you need to know -- just because the branch nearest you doesn’t have the book you’ve been trying to track down or that movie you’ve been waiting to see, doesn’t mean all is lost. Within the same library system (for example, the Scottsdale Public Library) you can request items and have them transferred to the branch nearest to you free of charge.

Consider this a dose of encouragement to visit your local branch -- whatever the area of town in which you reside. The Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Glendale and Peoria libraries all have something to offer. Just don’t be delinquent returning items. We take no responsibility for your late fees ;)

This post is part of our Life at Home series. Each month, we explore different thinking, techniques or tools related to the concept of a home and what it means to live well in ours.

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It’s safe to say -- we’ve all felt it. You are at home with the ones you love, eating dinner in what could be characterized as quite a picturesque moment. But, you aren’t really there. Physically your body sinks into the chair, and your mouth devours each fork-full of food. But, when it comes to your mind, you’re anywhere but there.

The momentary daydreaming or lost-in-thought moments are fine -- healthy, even. But, we’re talking about that other sort of not being present. It leaves a little twinge of emptiness in your soul. The last place you want to feel that is at home -- the very place that should be filled with rest, peace and stability.

Those “not present” moments are bound to come. We know of no one living a perfect life totally free from them. That being said, we’ve found firsthand it’s possible to lessen their occurrence and influence on our lives.

It sounds a bit counterintuitive, but getting away from your home can help you be more present there. What do we mean? Sometimes you need a shift in perspective that’s best prompted by a change of scenery. Engaging elsewhere can allow you to return refreshed. Whether it’s a yoga class, neighborhood walk or full vacation, choose something outside of your home that gives your mind space to be calm.

Then, commit to be more mindful in your home upon your return. Perhaps, let yourself mull over a question or two. What aspects of your home do you like, yet easily overlook? What aromas do you sense, and how do they affect you? What do your feet feel like against the tile floor or carpet? What sort of expression is on your daughter’s face? Without placing judgement on yourself, aim to be just a bit more mindful, and see what unfolds.

Getting away won’t morph the every bit of your life at home into some hyper present state, but it truly can help you be a bit more present. Give it a whirl, and let us know how it goes. And, while you’re at it, we’d love to hear -- what other ways have you found to be more present at home?

It is no small decision or investment to purchase a home. Whether you’re a seasoned home buyer or you’re venturing forth on your first quest to acquire a property, understanding the benefits to buying a home warranty after purchasing a home is extremely important. Even when you think you understand everything about the house you are purchasing, there are many events that are out of your control. To be protected from unexpected breakdowns, save money on repairs and replacements, and for general peace of mind, a home warranty is invaluable.

Get Protection for Unexpected Breakdowns

Unless you happen to be an appliance whiz, it can be difficult to tell exactly what sort of condition the built-in appliances are in for the home you are purchasing. Depending on the terms of the sale, once the transaction closes and you have the keys in hand, the seller of the home is not necessarily responsible for anything that goes wrong from that point forward. Unless specific problems are known well beforehand, it is difficult to predict when breakdowns and other issues will occur. Purchasing a warranty for your new home is a simple way to protect yourself from the unexpected. If appliances do start breaking down or other issues covered under the warranty start to crop up, you have a policy in place to help you out.

Save Money

When appliances, electronics, and specific areas of your home require repairs or complete replacement, the costs add up quickly. The purchase of a new range or refrigerator alone can cost thousands of dollars. Without a warranty, new homeowners are left to cover these costs themselves or go without the use of a stove, oven, or cold food storage. When you’ve just closed on a home, you’re not likely to have a lot of extra cash floating around for a little while. Home warranties can cost only hundreds of dollars a year and save you thousands when you need repairs or replacements.

Get Peace of Mind

The greatest benefit to a home warranty is simply the knowledge that if something does go wrong, the warranty is there to help you. You’re not left to deal with the problem on your own. Depending on your policy, you might not even have to stress about finding a technician for repairs or a locksmith to get you in the door. The company that holds your warranty can usually help with all of that to make your life easier.

Consider It an Investment

A home warranty is one of those items that you hope you don’t have to use, but it sure is convenient to have when things go to pot. If you’re looking into purchasing a home, check to see if the seller is offering a warranty with it. For continued protection, don’t forget about renewal if your home is currently under warranty.