How to Install a Pool Alarm

Summary

– Focus on pool alarms

– Step 1: Choose the pool alarm system

– Step 2: Case 1: the wave underwater alarm

– Step 2: Case 2: the sonar underwater alarm

– Step 2: Case 3: Peripheral infrared alarm

– Step 2: Case 4: Wrist alarm

– Step 3: Install the alarm system

Beyond the regulatory aspect that obliges owners to secure their pool, the need for protection is not in doubt.

Pool alarms are part of the proven security systems, along with pool covers and barriers. However, it can be challenging to find your way around all the products available on the market.

Here is how to choose and install a pool alarm at home.

Focus on pool alarms

Several types of alarms exist:

– the “wave” immersed alarm: a probe (or several depending on the size of the pool) immersed in the pool captures the acoustic waves caused by a fall;

– the “passive sonar” underwater alarm: a more elaborate technique that detects the noise caused by a falling body;

– the peripheral alarm: terminals equipped with infrared detectors delimit space, and when an eruption occurs within this perimeter, the alarm is triggered;

– the bracelet alarm: the fall of the bracelet into the water sends a signal to a base which then emits a sound signal.

Of course, all these pieces of equipment compete with each other in terms of technicality and performance, programming, remote control… but be careful, these aspects are not necessarily synonymous with quality!

Warnings

We are not going to recall here the basic security instructions but simply two essential aspects:

– Whatever the type of alarm chosen, quick intervention is imperative after the alarm is triggered.

– To facilitate this intervention, your home should not be too far from your pool.

1. Choose the pool alarm system

Before starting the presentation, it is important to mention that each system must reference the National Electrical Code (NEC), or NFPA 70. Thus, an approved alarm must have:

– sufficient sound power to warn you ;

– an operation in all atmospheric conditions (high temperature, dryness, violent winds…);

– inaccessibility by the children;

– an automatic reactivation and a signal in case of a problem (discharged batteries or technical failure).

2. Case 1: the underwater wave alarm

Advantages

– effective system, but delayed response (up to 10 s) ;

– good resistance over time and to shocks, no particular maintenance.

Disadvantages

– the alarm can be triggered unexpectedly (by strong winds, running robots or filtration equipment) if the settings are incorrect.

Installation

– installed on or under the pool coping;

– a need for an electronic alarm unit equipped with a keyboard and a siren.

2. Case 2: the sonar submerged alarm

Advantages

– very fast triggering (the sound moves very quickly in the water) ;

– advanced and efficient system;

– good resistance to bad weather.

Disadvantages

– system incompatible with certain pools (self-supporting) or certain robots.

Implementation

– complete immersion in the pool;

– the need for an electronic alarm unit, equipped with a keyboard and a siren;

– fixing the sensor in a sealed part of the pool (e.g. a discharge nozzle).

2. Case 3: Peripheral infrared alarm

Advantages

– swift response of the system: in the order of a second;

– invisible barrier to the naked eye;

– warns of danger and not of a fall into the pool; therefore, more time to intervene;

– these two aspects make this type of equipment the most efficient;

– base equipped with a battery to take over in case of a power cut.

Disadvantages

– important investment;

– at the lower end of the range, untimely triggers due to the passage of pets or strong winds.

Implementation

– Certain rules must be respected regarding installation:

◦ maximum distance between terminals of 20 m ;

◦ transmitters and receivers fixed in general at 2 heights (20 and 45 cm) ;

◦ a minimum distance of the infrared beam at 1 m from the pool;

◦ number of poles to be adapted according to the shape and surface of the basin ;

◦ it is preferable to call a professional for the installation.

– Need for an electronic alarm control unit equipped with a keypad and a siren.

2. Case 4: the wrist alarm

Advantages

– The child cannot remove his bracelet alone.

It is easy to implement and has a low investment (between 50 and $80).

– It also exists in the form of necklaces.

Disadvantages

– Only the people equipped are protected.

– Do not forget to equip the person concerned.

Implementation

– It includes a base installed near the pool.

3. Install the alarm system

– Choose a control unit equipped with a keyboard; it will be more convenient than a remote control or a key.

– Alarm systems are of two types:

◦ wired systems:

▪ of heavier implementation since they require the integration of cables;

▪ less and less present on the market;

◦ wireless systems (transmission by radio waves):

▪ particularly suitable in the case of equipment for an already built pool;

▪ simplicity of installation, ease of disassembly.