When you build or renovate a swimming pool, the basic shape and size are only the beginning of the design journey. What truly defines a pool’s character are the tiny details that go beyond its glass‑like surface. Skimmers, jets, fountains, lighting, and even the way the pool is accessed all contribute to the overall experience. In this article we’ll walk through some of the most popular custom pool features, explain what they do, and give you practical guidance on how to choose the right ones for your backyard oasis.

The Skimmer: The First Line of Defense

A skimmer is a shallow trough that sits along the edge of the pool floor, usually near the water’s surface. It simply catches 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.

Choosing a Skimmer Design

• Standard skimmers are the most common and are usually installed on the pool wall. They work well for most residential pools.
  
• A floating skimmer, sometimes called a "skimmer bar," sits on the water surface and can be used in pools that lack wall space or in a modern, minimalist design.
  
• For pools frequented by children or pets, choose a larger skimmer opening to collect 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 either simple, single-function jets or components of an elaborate hydrotherapy system.

Jet Types

• Pure circulation jets maintain water movement and reduce stagnation, typically placed along the pool’s 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 create a continuous stream that pulls swimmers along a channel, giving the sensation of moving against the current.
  
  

Tips for Designing Jets

• 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.
  
• Don’t forget about aesthetics. Jet housings can be painted in a color that matches your pool’s tile or deck, or you can choose a more subtle finish to keep the focus on the water.
  
  

Flow, Sound, and Visual Appeal of Water Features

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 zum aufstellen winterfest into a sensory experience.|Adding a waterfall, fountain, or a small poolside stream can convert a plain pool into a sensory experience.

Waterfall Ideas

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

Fountains and 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 a built‑in bench, giving a natural look without compromising the pool’s shape.
  
  

Nighttime Magic of Lighting

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.

Selecting LED Lighting

• Color temperature matters. Cool white lights are ideal for poolside parties, whereas 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.
  
  

Safety and Energy Efficiency of Cover Systems

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 Covers

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

Covers Operated Manually

• If you favor a budget‑friendly solution, a manual cover can still maintain pool cleanliness and safety.
  
• Fabric covers are lighter and easier to move, but they require regular maintenance to keep them clean and free from mold.
  
  

Safety Features

• Automatic shut‑off switches turn off the pump and filter if the pool is empty or if the water level drops too low.
  
• Anti‑fall systems, like a safety fence or an automatic barrier that shuts when a child approaches, can provide peace of mind.
  
  

Deck & Surrounding Architecture

• Integrated seating: Built‑in benches with recessed jets create a seamless lounge area.
  
• Sunken decks: Reduce the deck height in selected areas, creating a "sunken" effect reminiscent of a natural lagoon.
  
• Water‑proof walls: Use stone, tile, or concrete together to form a textured surface that feels natural and encourages barefoot walking.
  
  

Maintenance & Longevity

• Clean skimmers weekly to keep the filtration system running smoothly.
  
• Examine jets for clogs or mineral buildup and clean them with a mild acid solution when required.
  
• 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, every element enhances personality and function in 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.