Infinity pools are a luxurious addition to any backyard or hotel. These unique pools offer a stunning visual effect, making it appear as though the pool has no edge, and the water simply cascades over the side. But how does infinity pool work? In this blog post, we’ll explain the mechanics behind an infinity pool and what makes them so unique.
What is an Infinity Pool?
An infinity pool, also known as a vanishing edge or negative edge pool, is a type of swimming pool that gives the impression that the water is extending infinitely into the horizon.
Infinity pools are designed to have one or more edges that blend into the surrounding landscape, giving the illusion that the water is disappearing into the horizon. These pools are typically found in luxury resorts, high-end hotels, and exclusive residences, where they serve as a symbol of sophistication and opulence.
How Does an Infinity Pool Work?
An infinity pool works by creating an optical illusion that makes the water appear as though it is disappearing into the horizon. The pool achieves this effect by utilizing a specially designed overflow channel surrounding it.
The overflow channel, positioned at a lower level than the pool, enables water to flow over the edge and into the channel, creating the illusion of an endless horizon.
To maintain a constant water level in an infinity pool, the pool uses a balance tank. The balance tank is a separate reservoir that stores the water displaced by the overflow and pumps it back into the pool. The constant flow of water over the edge does not affect the water level.
The infinity pool’s overflow channel filters and circulates the water. It collects the water flowing over the edge and directs it to the pool’s filtration system. The filtration system cleans and disinfects the water before returning it to the pool. This ensures that the water in the pool is always clean and safe to swim in.
The Basic Design of an Infinity Pool
To create the illusion of a never-ending horizon, builders construct an infinity pool with at least one edge lower than the water level. This edge is called the infinity edge or the vanishing edge.
To create the infinity edge, builders construct the infinity pool on a sloping hill or raised platform and lower the edge facing the view, while leaving the other sides at the same level as the water. The pool is then filled with water, which flows over the edge into a catch basin or trough that remains out of sight.
The water in the catch basin is then pumped back into the pool, creating a continuous cycle. This system maintains the water level in the pool and ensures that the infinity edge remains at a constant height.
The catch basin also acts as a safety feature, preventing water from overflowing and causing damage to the surrounding area.
What Makes an Infinity Pool Unique?
There are several factors that make an infinity pool unique and different from a traditional swimming pool. The first is the visual effect that the pool creates. The illusion of an endless horizon gives the pool a stunning and dramatic look, making it an attractive feature for luxury hotels and residences.
Another factor that makes infinity pools unique is the way they are constructed. Because of the specialized design of the overflow channel and balance tank, infinity pools require more complex construction than traditional swimming pools. This means that they are typically more expensive to build and maintain.
Finally, people use infinity pools in a unique way. Unlike traditional swimming pools, which people design for exercise and recreation, people often use infinity pools as a visual centerpiece for their property. They consider them a symbol of luxury and opulence and use them for relaxation and entertaining.
The Mechanics Behind the Infinity Edge
The infinity edge is the most important element of an infinity pool. It is what creates the illusion of an endless horizon, and it’s what makes the pool design so mesmerizing.
To create the infinity edge, the water level in the infinity pool must be at the same height as the top of the infinity edge. A leveling device ensures a constant water level, achieving this.
When the water level is at the same height as the infinity edge, the water flows over the edge and into the catch basin or trough. The catch basin is located below the level of the infinity edge, which makes it invisible from the pool area.
The pump sends the water from the catch basin back into the pool, creating a continuous cycle. This system ensures that the water level in the pool remains constant, and the infinity edge remains at the same height.
The water overflowing from the infinity edge creates the illusion of an endless horizon as it falls into the catch basin situated below the pool level. From the pool area, the catch basin is invisible, and it appears as if the water is blending into the surroundings.
Benefits of an Infinity Pool
There are several benefits to having an infinity pool in your backyard or on your property. The first is the visual appeal. Infinity pools are visually stunning and can add value to your property. They are also a great way to entertain guests and provide a relaxing atmosphere for family and friends.
Another benefit of an infinity pool is the way that it can blend into the surrounding landscape. The pool design can create the illusion of being a natural part of the surrounding environment. This can make your property look more cohesive and attractive.
Finally, infinity pools are also beneficial because of the way they circulate and filter water. The water constantly flows over the edge and into the overflow channel, and this circulation constantly filters and maintains the water, ensuring its cleanliness and safety for swimming. This can reduce the amount of chemicals needed to maintain the water, making it a more eco-friendly option.
Maintenance of an Infinity Pool
Maintaining an infinity pool requires regular upkeep to ensure that the water remains clean and safe for swimming. Regularly check the pool’s filtration system to ensure proper function and clean the filters as necessary. Additionally, check the balance tank to maintain the correct water level in the pool.
Regularly clean the overflow channel to remove debris and prevent clogs using a pool skimmer or a special cleaning tool designed for infinity pools. You should also check the water level in the pool regularly to ensure that it remains at the proper level.
Finally, it is important to maintain the water chemistry in an infinity pool. Regularly check and adjust the pH level, alkalinity, and chlorine levels as needed to ensure the water remains safe and balanced.
Conclusion
Infinity pools are a stunning and luxurious pool design that can create an illusion of an endless horizon and offer a range of benefits. They work by utilizing a catch basin or trough to maintain a constant water level, creating an infinity edge that blends into the surrounding environment.
While infinity pools require careful maintenance and safety considerations, their stunning views and calming atmosphere make them a popular choice for high-end resorts, hotels, and homes.
If you’re considering an infinity pool for your property, be sure to work with a qualified pool builder who has experience in designing and installing this unique pool design. With proper maintenance and safety considerations, an infinity pool can provide years of enjoyment and relaxation.