Backyard Family Fun

Spring & Summer Backyard Pool and Spa Safety Checklist (Kids, Pets, Lighting, Covers)

Welcome to your home for BACKYARD FAMILY FUN, brought to you by Pride Pools, Spas, and Leisure Products.
 
Dee Daniels and Marshall Smith discuss spring and summer backyard pool and spa safety, emphasizing that fun and safety should coexist. They recommend keeping key rescue tools nearby, including a shepherd’s hook and a life ring, especially when guests or kids’ pool parties are involved. They advise inspecting pool entry points such as ladders, built-in steps, and handrails for wear, looseness, and overall condition.
 
For inground pools, they highlight using and maintaining a safety float line to clearly separate shallow and deep areas, particularly for children and inexperienced swimmers. They address pets in pools, noting it’s not encouraged but common, and suggest checking water chemistry more often and using dog exit aids like pup planks.
 
They also stress the importance of working interior and exterior lighting for night swimming and entertaining, consider fencing around pool equipment, and inspecting spa covers to keep children out.
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Backyard Safety Kickoff
02:17 Must Have Rescue Gear
04:23 Inspect Steps and Rails
06:13 New Owner Safety Checklist
06:37 Float Line for Deep End
08:31 Pets in the Pool
10:57 Pup Plank Demo
13:50 Night Swim Lighting
16:20 Entertaining and Perimeter Lights
18:52 Securing Pool Equipment
21:24 Spa Covers and Kid Safety
23:59 Wrap Up and Where to Shop
 
LEARN MORE WITH THESE SHOW LINKS: TAP HERE for the Pride Pools Main Page TAP HERE to see both Pride Pools Locations TAP HERE to enter the Pride Pools POOL DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to enter Pride Pools SPA DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA PRODUCTS TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA SERVICES EMAIL QUESTIONS and COMMENTS to info@pridepools.com PRIDE POOLS on FACEBOOK PRIDE POOLS on X PRIDE POOLS on INSTAGRAM PRIDE POOLS on YOUTUBE

Eco-Friendly Backyard Living in 2026: Hot Tub & Pool Accessories, Cordless Cleaners, and Variable Speed Pumps

Welcome to Backyard Family Fun from Pride Pools, Spas and Leisure Products in the Claxton location with Alex Smith, highlighting 2026 ideas for eco-friendly backyard living across pools, spas, and leisure products.
 
They discuss outdoor accessories like mailbox wraps and flags, plus spa add-ons such as pivoting side tables, towel racks, durable non-skid steps made from recycled resin, and a one-hand “cover mate” for easier hot tub cover removal. Alex explains spa efficiency features like low-voltage LED lighting and emphasizes durability and weather resistance.
 
For pools, they spotlight cordless rechargeable robotic cleaners that conserve energy and simplify maintenance, noting Pride Pools tests products in real-life conditions and offers easier warranty support than online purchases. They also cover quieter, energy-saving variable-speed pumps—now standard—along with trends they expect to learn more about at an upcoming United Aqua Group trade show, including sundeck/tanning ledge features and in-pool furniture that enhance family time.
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Welcome
00:49 Outdoor Decor Finds
01:46 Spa Relaxation Setup
03:55 Eco Friendly Spa Materials
07:44 Cover Mate Convenience
09:01 Cordless Pool Cleaners
11:51 Testing Products In House
13:26 Why Buy Local Cleaners
13:50 Real World Durability Tests
14:47 Easy Returns and Eco Brands
15:32 Quieter Variable Speed Pumps
17:43 Energy Savings and Winter Running
18:37 Trade Show Trends for 2026
21:23 Sundecks and Pool Accessories
23:41 Pools Build Family Community
25:16 Wrap Up and Visit Pride Pools
 
LEARN MORE WITH THESE SHOW LINKS: TAP HERE for the Pride Pools Main Page TAP HERE to see both Pride Pools Locations TAP HERE to enter the Pride Pools POOL DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to enter Pride Pools SPA DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA PRODUCTS TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA SERVICES EMAIL QUESTIONS and COMMENTS to info@pridepools.com PRIDE POOLS on FACEBOOK PRIDE POOLS on X PRIDE POOLS on INSTAGRAM PRIDE POOLS on YOUTUBE

GETTING YOUR POOL READY SERIES: Tips & Tricks Part 2

In this Backyard Family Fun episode - brought to you by Pride Pools, Spas and Leisure Products - producer Dee Daniels is in the Savannah location to go more in-depth with co-owner Marshall Smith about getting your pool ready!
 
Marshall and Dee are in a part-two conversation on getting your swimming pool CANNONBALL READY as the warm weather starts to find its way into southeast Georgia. They recap cleaning or replacing sand filter media and rotating cartridge filters (keeping two or three on hand) to improve filtration efficiency, reduce chemical demand, and lower energy use. Marshall explains when cartridge filters may need replacement (often around 18 months to two years, depending on conditions) and why every pool is different due to water source, trees, and bather load.
 
He recommends lab water testing every four to six weeks (six to eight max), with weekly at-home strip checks, and stresses bringing samples in a clean container. They cover inspecting equipment, seals, valves, hoses, and pressure gauges, plus basic DIY leak checks and when to call for service, emphasizing early-season annual checkups to avoid green water as temperatures rise.
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Welcome and Part Two Setup
01:09 Filter Media Recap
04:46 Why Every Pool Is Unique
07:44 Balanced Water and Efficiency
09:22 How Often to Test Water
12:11 Bring a Clean Water Sample
13:49 Inspect Equipment and Seals
16:39 DIY Leak Detection Steps
19:32 Annual Checkups and Pressure Gauge
22:54 Avoid the Sudden Green Pool
25:09 Water History and Wrap Up
 
LEARN MORE WITH THESE SHOW LINKS: TAP HERE for the Pride Pools Main Page TAP HERE to see both Pride Pools Locations TAP HERE to enter the Pride Pools POOL DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to enter Pride Pools SPA DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA PRODUCTS TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA SERVICES EMAIL QUESTIONS and COMMENTS to info@pridepools.com PRIDE POOLS on FACEBOOK PRIDE POOLS on X PRIDE POOLS on INSTAGRAM PRIDE POOLS on YOUTUBE

GETTING YOUR POOL READY SERIES: Tips & Tricks Part 1

Producer Dee Daniels is at Pride Pool Spas and Leisure Products in Claxton to talk with Marshall Smith on a SPECIAL SERIES about getting pools “jump in” ready as warmer weather arrives in southeast Georgia temperatures.
 
Marshall stresses that clear water can be deceiving after 60–90 days of minimal attention, so the first step is water testing, including Pride Pools’ Bioguard-based 13-point analysis (beyond test strips) that checks items like phosphates, total dissolved solids, calcium hardness, alkalinity, pH, iron, and copper; customers can pick up a free labeled sample bottle and avoid containers like pickle jars.
 
They also discuss filter readiness—sand, cartridge, or DE—cleaning or replacing media as needed, with sand typically lasting about three years and recommended cleaning twice a year, and cartridge filters cleaned every 60–90 days with a backup set to prevent downtime. Finally, they recommend a full preseason assessment for winter damage, including baskets, tools, seals, and pump leaks that can lead to costly failures.
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Welcome to Claxton
00:25 Weather and Pool Plans
01:37 Swim Ready Not Just Clear
03:53 Water Testing Essentials
06:41 How to Bring Samples
08:54 Inside the Claxton Store
10:13 Filter Types and Care
13:22 When to Replace Sand
16:50 Cleaning Schedule Basics
18:48 Full Spring Pool Check
23:57 Wrap Up and Next Episode
 
LEARN MORE WITH THESE SHOW LINKS: TAP HERE for the Pride Pools Main Page TAP HERE to see both Pride Pools Locations TAP HERE to enter the Pride Pools POOL DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to enter Pride Pools SPA DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA PRODUCTS TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA SERVICES EMAIL QUESTIONS and COMMENTS to info@pridepools.com PRIDE POOLS on FACEBOOK PRIDE POOLS on X PRIDE POOLS on INSTAGRAM PRIDE POOLS on YOUTUBE

Maximize Relaxation: Spa Secrets, Hydrotherapy, and Portable Hot Tub Insights

In this Backyard Family Fun episode, producer Dee Daniels is relaxing at Pride Pools Spas and Leisure Products in Claxton with Alex Smith to explore hot tub “spa secrets,” emphasizing the benefits of seeing models in person and doing a dry run or test soak.
 
Alex explains the differences between inground spa attachments and portable spas, highlighting true hydrotherapy with targeted jets and Bullfrog JetPack Therapy spas with interchangeable jet packs for different seats and body areas. They discuss “good, better, best” spa options, common reasons for buying (relaxation, relationship time, medical therapy like joint, back, sciatic, and arthritis relief), and how staff helps match size and placement, recommending keeping the spa close to the house.
 
The episode also covers delivery options, accessories like cover mates and steps, a Fresh Metal water program, and user-friendly tech that reminds owners about sanitation and filter cleaning, plus lockout features for Airbnbs.
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Welcome to Claxton
00:45 Why Visit In Person
01:37 Portable Spa Benefits
02:48 Good Better Best Options
03:44 Jet Pack Therapy
04:49 Real Pain Relief Story
07:12 Choosing the Right Fit
10:02 Sizing and Test Soaks
12:51 Delivery and Placement Tips
17:12 Make It Easy to Use
18:59 Smart Maintenance Reminders
21:30 How to Get Started
 
LEARN MORE WITH THESE SHOW LINKS: TAP HERE for the Pride Pools Main Page TAP HERE to see both Pride Pools Locations TAP HERE to enter the Pride Pools POOL DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to enter Pride Pools SPA DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA PRODUCTS TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA SERVICES EMAIL QUESTIONS and COMMENTS to info@pridepools.com PRIDE POOLS on FACEBOOK PRIDE POOLS on X PRIDE POOLS on INSTAGRAM PRIDE POOLS on YOUTUBE

Backyard Family Fun Season 3: Smart Pool & Spa Technology Trends for 2026 at Pride Pools

WE ARE JUMPING IN to Season 3 of Backyard Family Fun at Pride Pool Spas and Leisure Products in Claxton and Savannah! The season opener kicks off at the Claxton location with producer Dee Daniels and Co-Owner Marshall Smith, as Pride Pools continues celebrating its 50th anniversary through March.
 
They discuss how pool and spa trends change gradually, with technology driving most evolution, including Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth automation that lets owners control pumps, lighting, cleaners, and temperature from a smartphone—even while traveling. Marshall explains that older pools (15–30+ years) can often be upgraded from “analog to digital” without rebuilding the pool structure because the technology is mainly in equipment and automation near the filtration system.
 
They highlight 2026 focus areas such as solar-powered surface skimmers, improved cordless cleaners, and Pride Pools’ practice of waiting for second- and third-generation products before stocking them. Pride Pools offers assessments in Claxton and Savannah and encourages planning upgrades before peak season.
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 
00:00 Welcome to Claxton
00:37 Season Three Kickoff
01:21 Do Pool Trends Change
02:51 Surprising Pool Tech
04:13 Upgrading Older Pools
09:00 Smart Home Pool Systems
10:25 Control Pools by Phone
12:02 Apps and Automation
14:24 2026 Cleaning Trends
16:50 Tested Products Only
18:11 Easy Upgrade Ideas
20:11 Plan Now and Wrap Up
 
LEARN MORE WITH THESE SHOW LINKS: TAP HERE for the Pride Pools Main Page TAP HERE to see both Pride Pools Locations TAP HERE to enter the Pride Pools POOL DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to enter Pride Pools SPA DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA PRODUCTS TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA SERVICES EMAIL QUESTIONS and COMMENTS to info@pridepools.com PRIDE POOLS on FACEBOOK PRIDE POOLS on X PRIDE POOLS on INSTAGRAM PRIDE POOLS on YOUTUBE

Swim, Sip, Solve: Poolside Mysteries Unplugged

In this episode of Backyard Family Fun - brought to you by Pride Pools, Spas & Leisure Products, producer Dee Daniels sits down with Alex Smith at Pride Pools' Claxton location. The duo delves into the comprehensive service and maintenance side of Pride Pools, emphasizing the importance of 'service after the sale.'
 
They discuss the evolution of the service department since the company's inception in 1975, covering everything from regular pool maintenance to intricate repairs and leak detection. Highlights include a breakdown of services available, from vinyl liner replacements to concrete deck renovations, and even the unique process of servicing pools not originally installed by Pride Pools.
 
The episode underscores the commitment to customer satisfaction and the extensive training and certifications held by the team, ensuring top-notch service for all pool owners.
 
DIVE INTO A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:16 Service and Maintenance Overview
00:55 Evolution of Service Department
01:51 Weekly Maintenance and Repairs
02:24 Concrete and Vinyl Pool Services
09:08 Leak Detection and Repair
17:39 Customer Support and Training
26:19 Conclusion and Contact Information
 
 
 
LEARN MORE WITH THESE SHOW LINKS: TAP HERE for the Pride Pools Main Page TAP HERE to see both Pride Pools Locations TAP HERE to enter the Pride Pools POOL DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to enter Pride Pools SPA DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA PRODUCTS TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA SERVICES EMAIL QUESTIONS and COMMENTS to info@pridepools.com PRIDE POOLS on FACEBOOK PRIDE POOLS on X PRIDE POOLS on INSTAGRAM PRIDE POOLS on YOUTUBE

Holiday Shopping at Pride Pools: Everything You Need for Your Backyard

In this episode of Backyard Family Fun, Dee and Alex Smith discuss how to make holiday shopping stress-free with Pride Pools, Spas, and Leisure Products.
 
Broadcasting from the Claxton location, they highlight various products for backyard enjoyment including pools, hot tubs, grills, solo stoves, speakers, and coolers. Additionally, the episode covers valuable spa accessories and unique stocking stuffers. Alex shares promotional details and upcoming events like the Spin the Wheel contest. They emphasize the convenience of gift cards for those unsure of what to buy. The episode wraps up with a nod to Pride Pools' community involvement during the holiday season.
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Welcome to Backyard Family Fund
00:36 Holiday Shopping at Pride Pools
02:35 Grills and Accessories
07:18 The Solo Stove Experience
12:33 Coolers for Your Backyard
14:36 Coolers and Tumblers: The Ultimate Durability Test
16:08 Spa Accessories: Enhancing Your Relaxation
17:04 Steps, Handrails, and Towel Racks: Spa Safety and Convenience
18:16 Cover Mate: Effortless Spa Cover Management
19:28 Holiday Shopping at Pride Pools: Gifts for Everyone
20:06 Unique Floats and Pool Toys: Fun for All Ages
21:18 Spa Aromatherapy: Relax and Rejuvenate
23:14 Gift Cards: The Perfect Solution for Indecisive Shoppers
25:50 Community Spirit: Giving Back During the Holidays
26:13 Conclusion: Happy Holidays from Pride Pools
 
LEARN MORE WITH THESE SHOW LINKS: TAP HERE for the Pride Pools Main Page TAP HERE to see both Pride Pools Locations TAP HERE to enter the Pride Pools POOL DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to enter Pride Pools SPA DESIGN CENTER TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA PRODUCTS TAP HERE to learn more about POOL & SPA SERVICES EMAIL QUESTIONS and COMMENTS to info@pridepools.com PRIDE POOLS on FACEBOOK PRIDE POOLS on X PRIDE POOLS on INSTAGRAM PRIDE POOLS on YOUTUBE