Whether you are building or renovating a swimming pool, the basic shape and size are just the first step in the design journey. The true personality of a pool emerges from the subtle details that extend beyond its glass‑like surface. Skimmers, jets, fountains, lighting, and the method of accessing the pool all influence the overall experience. Here we’ll explore the most popular custom pool features, explain their functions, and offer practical advice on selecting the best ones for your backyard oasis.

The Skimmer – First Line of Defense

A skimmer is a shallow trough located along the pool zum aufstellen winterfest floor’s edge, generally near the water’s surface. It’s designed to catch floating debris before they sink. When the system is well-balanced, the skimmer feeds water into the filtration system, maintaining a clean pool with little effort.

Skimmer Design Options

• Standard skimmers are the most common, typically installed on the pool wall and work well for most residential pools.
  
• A floating skimmer, sometimes referred to as a "skimmer bar," sits on the water surface and is suitable for pools without wall space or those with a modern, minimalist aesthetic.
  
• For pools used by children or pets, consider a larger skimmer opening to capture bigger debris such as leaves or small toys.
  
  

Custom Jets: Power, Style, and Relaxation

Pool jets are the powerful points that circulate water and often provide a massaging or "spa" effect. They can be simple, single‑function jets or part of a more elaborate hydrotherapy system.

Types of Jets

• Pure circulation jets keep water moving and reduce stagnation, usually positioned around the pool perimeter.
  
• Massage jets are positioned for body contact and can be grouped into "hot tub"‑style arrays or integrated into a lounge chair.
  
• Endless runner jets produce a continuous stream that pulls swimmers along a channel, creating the feeling of moving against the current.
  
  

Jet Design Tips

• Decide where you want the jets to be. If you plan to use the pool for swim training, place jets along the side walls. If you want a relaxing spa experience, cluster them near a lounge area or a built‑in chair.
  
• Consider a multi‑zone system. By dividing the pool into zones with distinct jet patterns and temperatures, you can create a "hot spot" for breathing exercises while keeping the rest of the pool cooler for lap swimming.
  
• Keep aesthetics in mind. Jet housings may be painted to match your pool’s tile or deck, or you can choose a subtle finish to keep attention on the water.
  
  

Water Features: Flow, Sound, and Visual Appeal

Adding a waterfall, fountain, or even a small poolside stream can transform a plain pool into a sensory experience.|Adding a waterfall, fountain, or even a small poolside stream can turn a plain pool into a sensory experience.|Adding a waterfall, fountain, or small poolside stream can transform a plain pool into a sensory experience.|Adding a waterfall, fountain, or a small poolside stream can convert a plain pool into a sensory experience.

Ideas for Waterfalls

• A vertical waterfall at the pool’s edge creates a dramatic visual and can power a small aeration system, improving water clarity.
  
• A cascading pool into a shallow "pooljet" can be an attractive way to integrate a jet feature with a waterfall.
  
  

Fountains & Streams

• A fountain can serve as both a decorative element and a source of oxygen for the water, benefiting the pool’s ecosystem.
  
• A small stream or "pooljet" can be hidden in a corner or built‑in bench, offering a natural look without compromising the pool’s shape.
  
  

Lighting: Nighttime Magic

LED lighting is no longer a novelty. Properly installed lighting can extend the pool’s usability into the night and create a magical ambiance.|LED lighting is no longer a novelty. Correctly installed lighting can extend the pool’s usability into the night and create a magical ambiance.|LED lighting is no longer a novelty. When installed properly, it can extend the pool’s usability into the night and produce a magical ambiance.|LED lighting is no longer a novelty. Proper installation can extend the pool’s usability into the night and generate a magical ambiance.

LED Lighting Selection

• Color temperature matters. Cool white lights work well for poolside parties, while warmer tones soothe a night swim.
  
• Submersible LED strips can be placed beneath the deck or inside the wall to create a "halo" effect.
  
• Motion‑sensing lights keep the pool safe without letting you constantly adjust switches. They can also be programmed to dim automatically as the night goes on.
  
  

Cover Systems: Safety and Energy Efficiency

A good pool cover not only keeps debris out but also reduces evaporation, saving water and energy. There are several types to consider.|A good pool cover keeps debris out and reduces evaporation, saving water and energy. Several types are available.|A good pool cover not only keeps debris out but also cuts evaporation, saving water and energy. There are several types to choose from.|A good pool cover prevents debris entry and lowers evaporation, saving water and energy. There are several types to consider.

Automatic Cover Systems

• These covers can be opened and closed with a simple remote or a smartphone app. They’re convenient but can be pricey.
  
• Options include solar panels that charge the cover’s battery, enabling a completely hands‑off experience.
  
  

Manual Covers

• If you want a cost‑effective option, a manual cover can still keep your pool clean and safe.
  
• Fabric covers are lighter and easier to move, yet they need regular maintenance to stay clean and mold‑free.
  
  

Safety Features

• Automatic shut‑off switches cut power to the pump and filter if the pool is empty or the water level falls too low.
  
• Anti‑fall systems, including a safety fence or an automatic barrier that activates when a child nears, add peace of mind.
  
  

Deck & Surrounding Architecture

• Integrated seating: Built‑in benches with recessed jets form a seamless lounge area.
  
• Sunken decks: Lower sections of the deck to produce a "sunken" effect that resembles a natural lagoon.
  
• Water‑proof walls: Use a combination of stone, tile, or concrete to create a textured surface that feels natural and invites barefoot walking.
  
  

Long‑Term Maintenance

• Clean skimmers weekly to keep the filtration system running smoothly.
  
• Check jets for clogs or mineral buildup, then clean them with a mild acid solution if needed.
  
• Keep LED lights and any electronic components dry and free from corrosion by using proper enclosures and seals.
  
• Schedule a yearly inspection of safety features to ensure they’re functioning correctly.
  
  

Custom pool features can turn a standard backyard swim into an exceptional experience.

From the practical benefits of skimmers and jets to the sensory delights of waterfalls, fountains, and LED lighting, each element adds a layer of personality and function to your pool.
By carefully selecting features that match your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preference, you can create a swimming environment that’s not only clean and safe but also a source of joy and relaxation for years to come.