We all know that outdoor swimming pools have got all the hallmarks of a great home improvement – adds value, enhances livability and beauty, and creates a perfect gathering spot for family and friends. So why wouldn’t you add a swimming pool to your outdoor living space?

From the belief that it costs too much to operate a pool to the misconception it will go unused, myths about pool ownership abound – and they likely dissuade some homeowners from making this valuable home improvement. If you’ve been considering adding a swimming pool to your outdoor environment, here are five common myths that are all wet:

Myth: Pools are too costly to install.

Reality: A swimming pool is a significant home improvement investment, there’s no denying it. However, the cost of a pool will depend on many factors, including the size of your yard, the dimensions of the pool and the materials you choose. When compared to other significant discretionary expenditures such as a family vacation – which costs the average family nearly $4,800 for one week of fun each year – a pool can be a high-value investment that pays for itself in just a few years. Of course, finding the right installer is key to a positive, cost-effective purchase. The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) offers an online member locator to help consumers find an APSP Certified Professional in their area.

Myth: It’s difficult and costly to maintain a pool. Reality: Long gone are the days when operating a pool pump could cost almost as much as running your central air conditioning during the summer. Pool pumps and filtration systems are more energy efficient than ever, saving money on electricity costs. Plus, improvements in filtration system and purification chemicals mean you’ll need less product to keep a pool sparkling throughout the summer. In fact, when it comes to pool maintenance, 63 percent of pool owners say maintaining correct water chemistry is no trouble at all, according to an APSP survey.

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Myth: Pools are not energy efficient.

Reality: Modern pool pumps require much less electricity to operate than you might think. Energy-efficient pumps can use up to 30 percent less power to operate. When compared to other household sources of electricity consumption, swimming pools are a small percentage of a home’s overall energy use. What’s more, these systems can be even more cost effective when solar powered. Accessories can help conserve energy, too. For example, using a solar cover on an inground pool when it’s not in use can help the water retain heat and keep debris out of the pool, which means less work for the filtration system – and you.

Myth: A pool won’t enhance my home’s value. Reality: Buyers like homes that have swimming pools: Among people who purchased a home with an existing swimming pool, an eye-opening 78 percent said the presence of the pool contributed to their decision to buy the house, according to the APSP survey. Depending on where you live, a pool may enhance your home’s appeal to prospective buyers even more – especially if you live in a region with very hot summers or a year-round temperate climate.

This article is courtesy of Brandpoint.

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