I received a few emails about the post I did on calculating pool volume. The question posed was, “how can you measure the pool easily?” especially in the cold, wet weather.
The most common way to measure a pool is with a measuring
tape, but nowadays we use a digital laser rangefinder. It can measure up to 150 feet and will also calculate area and volume. It cannot measure pool depth through the water though, so we rely on more traditional methods to get depth measurements.
To make my pool measurements quickly I enlist the help of anyone nearby and take “readings” off of them. To measure the swimming pool depth I use the pool pole (from the net/ scoop/ vacuum head). I mark the water depth on the pole and can easily measure the pole on “dry land”.
Our laser tool has made measuring so much easier and quicker. I tend to carry spare batteries as well as my trusty old tape measures. I still use the old-style tape measure in bright sunlight for distances over 100 feet because I find it extremely difficult to find the laser dot. I suppose one day I’ll get the special sighting board and glasses or upgrade to a more powerful device. For now I’m just getting used to this little techno-toy and having fun while saving time.
Tags: volume calculators , laser rangefinder , building , measurements , laserRelated pool posts:
February 25th, 2008 at 11:57
Do you think the make and model really matter? I figure if I only need to measure up to 60 feet I don’t need such an upmarket machine.
Does anyone know how bright the laser on the cheaper gadgets are?
February 26th, 2008 at 18:13
I use an el-cheapo Chinese trash gadget. It is a few inches out in the results, but that’s close enough for me. I’m no pro so I use it for odd jobs around the house and yard.
If I plant the new rosebush 3 inches too far, so what?! I have had it for a year or so. If it gives me another year of service then I’m happy.
January 13th, 2009 at 14:29
WHAT IS THE MEASURMENTS OF A SWIMING POOL
February 20th, 2009 at 10:17
How do I measure my swimming pool. I have had it for several years and am in the process of ordering a new liner. I can not remmber the size of the pool. I think that it is 24′ round, but am not 100% sure.
March 8th, 2009 at 13:12
I think you measure across, around and depth.
April 18th, 2009 at 12:04
[...] continued here « Natural Swimming Pools: In The Swim With Nature Are Your Local Public Pool Drains Safe [...]
April 27th, 2009 at 17:02
No doubt, a VERY useful device. I purchased a house a couple of years ago with a pool already built in. I spent forever trying to figure out how to measure the gallons of water it held.
July 27th, 2009 at 03:03
Your blog post is very informative, thanks for sharing!
January 5th, 2010 at 18:56
I was a lifeguard for 5 years in what seems to be a lifetime ago and checking measurements is obnoxious. Unfortunately we never had cool technologies like this. It would have saved me a ton of time.
January 12th, 2010 at 02:55
your suggestion for measuring the summing pool is very nice. thanks for your information.
February 4th, 2010 at 12:09
hey jess, where did you used to be a lifeguard? i did it in high wycombe but not for 5 years. i once fell in trying to do a measurement once
April 2nd, 2010 at 09:56
Question: If I use a chemical test and keep my pH in line with that, why do I need to know the water volume? Is it important enough to spend the dough?
April 6th, 2010 at 07:52
Where can I get this device? & how to I use it? Is there any place where I can get some help?
April 18th, 2010 at 21:17
cool device!
May 22nd, 2010 at 21:42
I keep all the measurements and capacities on file for all of my customers. This information helps when making estimates for jobs or orders for chemicals, and allows for accuracy without having to revisit the pool.
June 2nd, 2010 at 15:21
Good input on measuring pools. We have always used the lenght x width x average depth x 7.5 to help measure gallons of water in the pool.
June 7th, 2010 at 22:00
This is great information, the laser range finder is an excellent device to make volume calculations easier.
June 8th, 2010 at 19:11
Nice device. The old trusted method of measuring total gallons is length x width x AD x 7.5. This should get you to how many gallons.
June 23rd, 2010 at 20:56
Which is more economical to maintain? Saltwater pool or fresh water pool. I have an inground pool.
June 29th, 2010 at 00:27
great tips on how to accurately measure a swimming pool. thanks for sharing