Understanding the Anatomy of Your Inground Pool

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Understanding the Anatomy of Your Inground Pool

At Carolina Family Pool & Patio, we believe the best pool experiences start with understanding how an inground pool works. Think of it as getting to know the engine under the hood—once you do, maintenance becomes a breeze.

1. The Suction Side: Gathering the Water

Skimmers
Built into the pool wall, skimmers act like your pool’s “mouth,” gulping up surface water, leaves, and debris. A basket traps large particles before water proceeds to the filtration system.

Main Drain(s)
Typically positioned in the deep end, main drains pull water from below the surface. Newer systems often feature dual drains for safety and improved circulation.

Suction Lines
PVC pipes serving as conduits, suction lines transport water from the skimmers and main drains into the pump.

2. The Filtration System: Cleaning the Water

Pump (The Heart of Your Pool)
Your pool’s pump contains a spinning impeller powered by a motor that creates suction, drawing water from the pool into the filter system. Pumps typically range from ¾ to 3 HP depending on pool size.

Filter (The Kidneys of the Pool)
After the pump, water flows through the filter—available in sand, cartridge, or DE types—which removes fine particles that sanitizers can’t catch.

3. The Pressure Side: Returning Clean Water

Return Lines
These PVC pipes carry clean water from the filter back to the pool.

Return Jets
Small outlets that reintroduce water into the pool, they also help push debris toward the skimmers. Ideal jet positioning creates a circular flow, improving overall circulation.

4. Optional Equipment: Enhancing the System

Depending on your setup, you may include:

  • Heater – Positioned after the filter to add heat efficiently.
  • Chemical Feeder / Salt Cell – Adds sanitizers; should be placed in correct sequence (pump → filter → heater → feeder) to protect equipment.

5. Pool Shell: The Foundation of It All

Inground pools come in three main forms:

  • Concrete/Gunite – Extremely durable with custom shapes. Requires more maintenance and periodic resurfacing.
  • Vinyl Liner – Budget-friendly with customizable sizing; liners should be replaced every 8–10 years.
  • Fiberglass – Low maintenance and fast installation, though limited in shapes and sizes.

Why Anatomy Matters

A well-maintained inground pool relies on balanced circulation (moving water), filtration (keeping it clean), and pressure (returning water efficiently.) Understanding each component empowers you to:

  • Diagnose circulation issues
  • Perform seasonal maintenance and repairs
  • Optimize your system for energy efficiency and safety

Tips for Seamless Pool Care

  1. Know Your Water Flow – Sketch a map of skimmers, drains, jets, and valves to help troubleshoot and balance flow.
  2. Position Jets Smartly – Angle returns to promote a circular flow toward skimmers.
  3. Sequence Equipment Properly – Ensure heaters and feeders are installed in the right order to protect your system.
  4. Prioritize Safety – Dual main drains and compliant covers are essential to prevent suction hazards.

In Conclusion

When you understand the inner workings of your inground pool—from the skimmers and pumps to the jets and shell—you’re not just a pool owner; you’re a steward of your own backyard oasis. And at Carolina Family Pool & Patio, we’re here to support you every step of the way—from consultation to installation, maintenance, and expert guidance.

Ready to get hands-on? Contact us today, and let’s give your pool the care it deserves!

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