The Smart Investment: Why Single-Family Rental Property Owners Should Install Pool Sentry Devices
Owning a single-family rental property with a pool can be a great asset, attracting tenants and potentially increasing your rental income. However, maintaining a pool can also present unique challenges, especially when it comes to managing water levels. To put it plainly . . . pools present challenges. Even so, several tools exist that can alleviate some of the challenges for pools at single-family rental properties. One solution that is gaining popularity among savvy property owners is the installation of a pool sentry device, also known as a pool auto-fill. This small investment can lead to significant cost savings and prevent major headaches down the road.
The Importance of Maintaining Proper Water Levels
The water level in a pool might seem like a minor detail, but it plays a crucial role in the overall health and longevity of the pool and its equipment. When water levels drop too low, the pool’s pump can start drawing air instead of water, which can cause the pump to overheat and fail. On the other hand, if water levels are too high, it can interfere with the skimmer’s ability to clean the surface of the pool, leading to debris accumulation and water quality issues. Thus, a good balance is needed.
Maintaining the correct water level manually is not only time-consuming but also prone to human error, especially in a rental property where tenants may not be familiar with pool maintenance. This is where an auto fill comes in.
What is a Pool Sentry Device?
A pool sentry is an automatic pool filler that keeps the water level in your pool within the optimal range. It works by attaching to your pool’s water supply and automatically adding water whenever the level drops below a certain point. This ensures that your pool always has the right amount of water, without requiring constant monitoring or manual intervention.
Cost Savings: Pool Sentry vs. Repairs and Maintenance
Installing a pool sentry device is not just about convenience—it’s about protecting your investment. Here is how it compares to the potential costs of not maintaining proper water levels:
Preventing Equipment Damage:
Cost of Pool Sentry Device: Typically, a pool sentry device costs between $50 and $200, depending on the model and features.
Cost of Pool Pump Repair or Replacement: If the water level drops too low and your pump is damaged, repairs can range from $150 to $800, while a full replacement can easily exceed $1,500 and can approach $3,000 in some cases. A pool sentry device can prevent this by ensuring your pump always has enough water to operate correctly.
Avoiding Green to Clean Treatments:
Cost of Green to Clean Treatment: When water levels are not maintained, it can lead to algae growth, turning your pool green. A green-to-clean treatment, which involves multiple chemical treatments and professional cleaning services, can cost anywhere from $300 to $500. In the event of a complete drain, clean and refill, additional cost can be anticipated.
Ongoing Maintenance Costs: Additionally, algae growth can lead to more frequent chemical treatments, increasing your ongoing pool maintenance costs.
Cost of Pool Sentry Device: As mentioned, a one-time investment in a pool sentry device (around $50-$200) can help you avoid these costly and time-consuming treatments by keeping your pool’s water level consistent, which is essential for maintaining proper chemical balance.
Reducing Water Wastage:
Cost of Water Wastage: Overfilling or underfilling a pool can lead to significant water waste. Over time, the cost of wasted water can add up, especially in areas with high water rates.
Savings with Pool Sentry: By maintaining the correct water level, a pool sentry device ensures that you are not using more water than necessary, which can lead to lower utility bills and a more sustainable property management approach.
Why Every Rental Property with a Pool Should Have a Pool Sentry
For single-family rental property owners, the benefits of installing a pool sentry device far outweigh the initial investment. Not only does it save money on repairs, maintenance, and water costs, but it also provides peace of mind. You can be confident that your pool is always in top condition, which can enhance tenant satisfaction and retention.
Conclusion
In conclusion, installing a pool sentry device is a smart, cost-effective way to protect your property and ensure your pool remains an attractive feature for your tenants. It is a small investment with big returns, making it an essential tool for any rental property owner with a pool.
For more tips on maintaining your rental properties, visit our blog at Reliance Property Services, where we offer expert advice tailored to property owners and managers.