S.R.Smith Product FAQs

Q:

How do I make a warranty claim?

Please go to our online warranty claim form.

Q:

What if I need something custom made?

We do custom rails only. Submit your design to your local distributor and they can contact us to get a quote on the project and then order it for you.

Q:

How can I find out prices on your products?

We can provide you with correct part numbers and your local dealer can quote a price.

Q:

How do I find the serial number on my S.R.Smith product?

Visit srsmith.com/serialnumbers for help on locating your S.R.Smith product serial number.

Q:

How do I manually synchronize my S.R.Smith color changing LED lights (TREO, micro, kēlo, Mod-Lite® pool lights) so they are all the same color?

See the applicable pool lighting manuals.

• TREO Pool Light Manual
• kelo Pool Light Manual
• micro Pool Light Manual
• Mod-Lite Pool Light Manual

Q:

How many lights can I put on one S.R.Smith poolLUX® Power, Plus, or Plus2 Dual transformer or controller?

Please see the latest pool lighting configuration guide: Pool Lighting Configuration Guide

Q:

How do I get my S.R.Smith poolLUX® Plus Transformer remote control to work?

Please see the latest on page 13 of the poolLUX® Plus Transformer Owner's Manual (Part Numbers PLX-PL60, PLX-PL100):

1. Check your batteries – The S.R.Smith remote uses two AAA batteries. 
2. The wireless remote may be in ‘sleep mode’, please push one of the two buttons to wake it up. If a flashing red light appears, it is working.
   a. The remote will go back to sleep after 30 seconds, so please press any button to wake it up again.
   b. Point the remote to the sky, as if you're holding a glass of water. The signal transmits out the back of the remote. Do not point the remote at the transformer, it is less effective.
3. Check that the rocker switch on the side of the poolLUX transformer is set to ‘Remote’ and not in ‘OFF’ or ‘ON’ position. Remote position is down. 
4. Remove the cover of the PLX transformer and make sure the antenna is in the up position. 
5. Are you within 75-100 ft, line-of-sight from the transformer? Range is reduced with objects and structures in the transmission path. 
6. Still not working? Perhaps one of the dip switches moved to a different position during transit?  The wireless remote and the PLX-Plux transformer’s dip switches default to position “A” from the factory. Both must match.
7. If you have already reset both dip switches, then the transformer needs to be powered OFF and ON to reset channel setting.

Q:

How do I extend my antenna for the poolLUX® Plus Transformer?

Antenna extenders and other parts are located on page 15 of the poolLUX® Plus transformer owner's manual. 

Q:

How do I locate dip switches?

1. Wireless Remote – unscrew the battery compartment on the back of the wireless remote, once the battery cover is off, you will see a dip switch, make sure this dip switch is in position “A”.  
2. You will need to remove the cover of the poolLUX transformer to locate the receiver dip switch to make sure it matches the remote dip switch setting. If code is changed, the unit will need to be power cycled before it goes into effect.

Q:

How do I install a timer to operate my S.R.Smith pool lights?

1. Timer controls will need to be installed on the supply voltage side of the poolLUX® transformer, between the sub-panel and transformer high voltage input.  
2. If a timer is used, then the remote on poolLUX Plus transformers will not be able to control the lights. 
3. Place the PLX-PL or PLX-PW transformer rocker switch in the “ON” position.  
4. No matter how switching is achieved, the power going to the transformer / power unit, will need to be GFCI protected and in accordance to the NEC to be compliant. 

Q:

What is the replacement LED part for my TREO pool light?

The discontinued FPAL-LAL LED Lamp can be replaced by:

• FLED-LAU-W (White only light)
• FLED-LAU-C (Must change all FPAL-LAL in the pool to this light)

Q:

How do I replace the TREO LED lamp module?

You can find the instructions on page 3 of the TREO owner's manual.

Q:

Will my new Rogue2 runway fit on my Frontier III or Rogue GrandRapids legs and ladder?

No - the Rogue2 has a different footprint than either of our former pool slides.

Q:

What is the difference between the old Frontier III slide, Rogue GrandRapids slide, and the new Rogue2?

The Frontier III slide had two U-frame legs as opposed to the four straight legs on the Rogue GrandRapids. There was also an improved water supply system on the Rogue GrandRapids where nozzles have been eliminated and the water flows down like a waterfall through molded openings at the top of the runway.

The new Rogue2 pool slide is the functional replacement for the Rogue GrandRapids. The Rogue2 maintains a traditional appearance, but goes beyond the original with a modern, rotomolded runway that resists fading and scratching.  The footprints of these two slides are also different.

Q:

What is the maximum weight on a slide?

325 lbs. (Vortex)

275 lbs. (TurboTwister, Typhoon)

250 lbs. (Rogue2, BigRide, heliX)

175 lbs. (Cyclone)

Q:

I have an old Aquaslide. Can I still get parts for it?

We no longer manufacture any parts for the Aquaslides (Duke, Queen, etc.)

Q:

Is there any way to remove rust from my old fiberglass slide?

A product called Iron Out seems to successfully remove rust without damaging the fiberglass.

Q:

Can a handrail be ordered separately for the Rogue2 pool slide?

Yes, the handrails for the Rogue2 Slide can be ordered separately, the part number is: 69-209-161. These are sold as individual pieces so if two handrails are needed an order for two would need to be place. With S.R.Smith selling through distribution only, the easiest way to order these handrails will be to reach out to a local dealer in your area to place an order for the handrail(s).

Q:

My pool deck is already poured. Can I still install a slide?

Yes. In fact all of our pool slides can be installed after the deck is poured, using the included deck anchors.

Q:

How much deck space is needed to install a pool slide?

The approximate minimum deck spaces for each pool slide model are as follows (see product specific installation guides for exact measurements).

• SlideAway™: 3' x 6'7"
• TurboTwister®: 13'6" x 6'7"
• heliX2®: 9'6" x 4'7"
• Typhoon®: 11'8" x 4'
• Cyclone: 6'8" x 5'6"
• Rogue2: 5'6" x 10'7"
• Vortex® with staircase: 11'4" x 9'9"
• Vortex® with ladder: 9'9" x 9'9"
• BigRide™: 10'11" x 10'7"
• Garden Ride Series™: 8' x 7'2"

Each installation guide has an aerial view (footprint) that shows the precise deck space needed.

Q:

Are S.R.Smith pool slides ASTM-F2376 complaint?

None of S.R.Smith's pool slides meet the requirements of the ASTM-F2376 standards. The ASTM-F2376 standard is for large water park type pool slides.

Q:

What are the dimensions of SlideAway when it it closed?

The dimenions for the SlideAway when it is closed are 5' long x 5'9" tall x 32" wide.

Q:

Is there a hardware kit sent with SlideAway?

No hardware kit is shipped with the SlideAway as a separate kit. The hardware kit is installed on the slide and the slide is fully assembled except for the rotomolded locking bar.  Note, the plumbing kit comes with extra parts of the 05-713 (plastic clamp) and 05-715 (plug). S.R.Smith recommends keeping the extra parts in case one gets lost or needs to be replaced.

Q:

What would cause children to get stuck and have to scoot themselves down the SlideAway?

This is an easy fix, there may not be enough water pressure or too much water. If the water is shooting over the opposite side, there is too much water pressure. Adjust the hose pressure in between sliders to help determine the best amount of water for sliding.

Q:

Can an S.R.Smith pool slide be installed after a pool deck has been poured?

Yes. In fact all S.R.Smith pool slides can be installed after the deck is poured, using the included deck anchors.

Q:

What do I do if the angle of my custom pool slide (Garden Ride, River Run, or BYOS2) is not steep enough?

If the custom pool slide is not steep enough, the pool owner will need to work with a local pool company to determine what can be done to rework the pool slide. There are no bracket extensions available and for safety reasons, any pool slide modifications require S.R.Smith and the pool company to work together to ensure the safety of the slide.

Q:

What is the best way to winterize a pool slide in the Midwest or East Coast?

Turn off water to stub-up, open ball valve, drain and leave open. Make sure all of the water is drained from the pump and filters before disconnecting them. You can use an air compressor to be sure there is no standing water in the system. Also, be sure to remove the drain plugs since they can trap water inside. Trapped water—even a tiny amount – can turn to ice that can expand and potentially cause damage.

Q:

Can a custom pool slide (Garden Ride, River Run or BYOS2) with structural damage be repaired?

Unfortunately, structural damage to a section of a custom pool slide cannot be repaired.  We recommend replacement of the damaged flume section.  If a replacement section needs to be replaced, it is best to work with builder or dealer who ordered the pool slide originally. To order the correct part number, S.R.Smith will need the original sales order number for pool slide, the serial number, specification of left or right turn, and the section needs to be replaced.  This will allow us to confirm the slide size, turn and color. With these pool slides being hand-crafted we cannot guarantee that the color will be a perfect match and will require a 12” x 12” section of the original slide to allow us to do our best to match the color. If the homeowner or a contractor attempts to repair the pool slide, it will void the warranty.

Q:

Is Anti-Seize necessary when installing stainless steel bolts?

Anti-seize is required when installing stainless steel bolts and stainless steel hex nuts. Anti-seize helps eliminate the stainless steel from galling (seizing). **NOTE The anti-seize packets we provide with our hardware kits for our pool slides, is a metallic gray color. When it dries, the color turns black due to the oxidation. Our anti-seize will stain everything it comes into contact with including clothing, fingers and even cement**

Q:

How can I order parts for the old Aquaslide N Dive pool slide?

Unfortunately, we can not assist with parts for Aqualide N Dive Pool slides. The manufacturer of these pool slides went out of business in 1990.

Q:

How can I order a cover for my pool slide?

S.R.Smith does not carry covers for our pool slides.

Q:

Does S.R.Smith offer cover caps for pool slides to cover the deck mounting bolts?

No, S.R.Smith does not offer any covers for pool slide deck mounting bolts.

Q:

Can a custom pool slide (Garden Ride Series, River Run Series, BYOS2) with a minor scratch or small chip be repaired?

For minor repairs including small scratches and small chips to your custom pool slide, we can provide a gel coat repair kit. To request a repair kit, send the request including a photo of the pool slide damage and confirmation of the slide's color to customercare@srsmith.com.

Q:

Do S.R.Smith pool slides need to be grounded (bonded)?

The quick answer is that every state and county have their own electrical code to follow.  We advise that all pool slides be grounded and suggest before installing the pool slide the technician check with the county for the Local Electrical Code Requirements. We do not advise how to ground our products due to the varying codes and requirements in each county. All metal components within 5’ of the water’s edge of the pool including handrails, ladders, diving board jigs, slides, pool lights with metal components, need to be grounded. This would include anything metal more than 1” in the ground.

Q:

How can a replacement section of a Build Your Own Slide (BYOS) or River Run Slide be ordered?

It's best to reach out to one of our Customer Care Team for guidance in replacing a pool slide flume section. The following information should be provided:

• The original sales order number
• Identification of the pool slide section needed
• Confirmation of the pool slide color

Since these pool slides are hand-crafted we can not guarantee the color match.  Therefore a 12" x 12' sample from the original slide will need to be provided to S.R.Smith. Once you have all this information, one of our customer service staff will be able to assist you with this request.

Q:

What do I do if parts were missing from the original pool slide delivery?

The quickest way to get replacement parts for missing pieces is to fill out a warranty claim form.

Q:

How to get replacement gaskets for the heliX, TurboTwister, Typhoon, and Rogue2 pool slide?

The slide gaskets for the heliX, heliX2, TurboTwister, Typhoon, and Rogue2 are replaced for free for the lifetime of the pool slide. All you need to do is reach out to S.R.Smith via customercare@srsmith.com and request the replacement gaskets. You will want to make sure to include the serial number for the pool slide. The serial numbers are located on the upper portion of the pool slide. For additional help locating your serial number please visit our S.R.Smith Serial Number Help page.

Q:

Can S.R.Smith deck mounted pool slides be installed on a stamped deck?

A stamped concrete deck is perfect for installation of a heliX2 pool slide. The heliX2 slide comes with expandable concrete anchors that are designed to be core drilled into the concrete deck to affix the slide. NOTE: YOU WILL NEED A CLEAR DECK SPACE of 9 ½" x 4' 7" AND A MINIMUM of 4" THICK.

Q:

How can I determine if my pool slide is a right or left turn?

The best way to determine if your pool slide is a left or right turn is to look down the slide from the top of the pool slide to see which way the exit section drops you into the water.

Q:

What is the correct part number for the ladder (top runway gasket) for the TurboTwister, Typhoon, and heliX2 pool slides?

On July 8, 2021 S.R.Smith changed the gasket listed in the installation manuals for the TurboTwister, Typhoon and heliX2 pool slides from 8-531 to 8-545. If looking for a replacement ladder (Top Runway Gasket), the correct part number is 8-545.

Q:

What is the best way to ensure the deck mounted pool slide is plumb?

To ensure the deck mounted pool slide ladder is plumb simply place a level on a ladder tread. If necessary, shims can be provided by S.R.Smith to place beneath the base of the ladder to ensure it is plumb due to varying deck slopes. Request for shims (part number 4-610) can be sent to customercare@srsmith.com.

Q:

How can the TurboTwister Runoff Deflector be replaced?

The TurboTwister pool slide comes with a Runoff Deflector (rubber flap) that is stapled to the slide in manufacturing. If it is broken and needs to be replaced, a new Runoff Deflector can be ordered (part number 69-209-083). This replacement deflector can be screwed onto the slide. Reach out to your local pool dealer to order a new deflector.

Q:

How do I remove and replace the water cap (Zoom Flume) on an S.R.Smith Garden Ride, River Run or BYOS2 custom pool slide?

Please reach out to the S.R.Smith Customer Care Team at customercare@srsmith.com for information regarding replacing a Zoom Flume.

Q:

How are the slide gaskets held in place on the deck mounted slides?

The pool slide gaskets are held in place with staples as well as the adhesive backing. The staples help the gaskets stay in place, so they do not fall off during shipping or while stored in high or low temperatures. Not all gaskets are installed from the factory. The upper ladder to upper runway gasket is not installed and comes with the hardware kit.

Q:

What do I do if the coping on the pool is causing the water from the Rogue2 pool slide to overflow onto the deck?

The Rogue2 pool slide will not work with 12" coping due to further set back not allowing for the required minimum 4" overhang over the pool.  This will result in the water from the slide dripping back onto the deck. To help with this scenario, we can suggest using our Off Set Leg Kit to allow the slide to move closer to the pool to hit the required 4" minimum overhang. The part number is 14-105-A8 and it works for one leg. To determine if this solution will work for your pool, please check the Rogue2 installation manual. To place an order for this part, place an order through your nearest dealer.

Q:

How do I select the correct diving board for my pool?

To safely install a diving board, the pool must have a "minimum diving water envelope" as defined by pool industry safety standards (ANSI/APSP/ICC-5 2011 Standard for Residential Inground Swimming Pools or ANSI/NSPI-1 2003 Standard for Public Swimming Pools). Diving envelopes range from a Type 0 (non-diving pool) up to a Type IX (large, commercial swimming pool). These Pool Types are determined by a series of depth measurements, including several width and depth measurements at various points in your pool. The following diagram is one example of a minimum diving water envelope.

Since pools come in many shapes and sizes, it is best to contact a pool professional in your area to measure and type your pool, and provide you with diving board options that are appropriate for your pool. In addition, not all diving boards and stands are designed to work together. Your pool professional can make sure that the diving board and stand you have selected are compatible.

Visit our dealer locator to find a Certified Professional Installer that has taken and passed our online certification course.

Q:

Can I replace my diving board myself?

You should have your diving board properly replaced by a reputable pool professional in your area. Professional installation of your diving board ensures that the board is properly fit to your pool's size and shape. Diving boards should never be removed and used in another pool without proper consultation with a professional. Please visit our dealer locator to search for a Certified Professional Installer in your area.

Q:

My diving board stand is broken, how do I replace it on the same spot?

You can use one of our epoxy kits to reconfigure the bolt pattern for a new stand. The old bolts can be sawed off flush with the deck, and new bolts installed. You may have to move the bolt pattern slightly to avoid the existing bolts.

Q:

How do I determine if I should replace my diving board?

Visually inspect the board for any cracks, rusting hardware, or other damage. Any sign of damage is immediate cause for board replacement.

Q:

How much deck is needed to install a diving board?

The minimum concrete pad for a residential diving board is 8' by 4' by 6". Diving stands have to meet local government codes. Please check with your pool professional and reference your diving board's installation manual for exact requirements.

Q:

My pool deck is already poured, can I still install a diving board?

Yes. Epoxy kits are available for surface mounting various bolt patterns to support diving board stands. We also have kits available for pavered decks.

Q:

What is the difference between a jump board and a diving board?

A jump board is a board on a stand that has a spring of some sort; a diving board is a board on a stationary, non-spring stand.

Q:

What causes pitting on stainless steel rails?

When the protective chrome-oxide film on the rail breaks down in small spots, severe contaminants such as halide salts can come in contact with the alloy surface, which begins to create pits.  This is very common in coastal and other similarly harsh areas.  Prevention by regular cleaning is recommended to regenerate and restore the protective film.

Q:

What can I do about rust spots on my stainless steel rails?

In order to protect them, stainless steel rails require routine cleaning with gentle soaps or detergents or mild mixtures of ammonia.  A number of products are readily available to clean stubborn spots, stains, or discolorations, including Bon Ami, Bar Keepers Friend, 3M Stainless Steel cleaner, Cameo, and Revere Ware Cleaner. Here is additional information on pool ladder and rail maintenance.

Q:

Can SealedSteel rails be installed in a spa?

SealedSteel or vinyl rails cannot be placed in a spa due to the heat. The heat of the water lifts the vinyl away from the rails and causes them to bubble.

Q:

Can flanges be added to the bottom of a pool rail to make it a deck top mounted rail?

No, flanges are added to the bottom of the pool rail during the manufacturing process.

Q:

How do I get a quote for a custom rail?

To request a quote for a custom rail, the homeowner or builder need to complete the following steps:

1. The pool owner should reach out to a local dealer and provide the specifications for their custom rail project.
2. The dealer will then reach out to their distributor providing all the project information.
3. The distributor will send the drawings and specifications to S.R.Smith at customercare@srsmith.com for review.
4. If the project is approved, a quote number, drawing sign off form, and pricing will be sent to the distributor for review.
5. The distributor will then provide it to the dealer who will review with the customer. If the quote is accepted, the dealer will send the order and sign off to the distributor.
6. Once the distributor has approval from the customer, they can forward the sales order & signed drawing to customercare@srsmith.com for processing.

Q:

I think a lift poses a safety risk at an unattended pool. I also have heard that my insurance rates will increase if I have a lift in my unattended pool. Can I consider safety risks?

The ADA allows businesses to consider "legitimate safety requirements" in determining whether an action is readily achievable, as long as the requirements are based on actual risks and are necessary for the safe operation of the business. However, a "legitimate safety requirement" cannot be based on speculation or unsubstantiated generalizations about safety concerns or risks. We note that businesses cannot rely on limitations on coverage or insurance rates as a reason not to comply with the ADA.

Q:

Are there any tax credits or deductions to help me comply?

Yes. To assist businesses with complying with the ADA, Section 44 of the IRS Code allows a tax credit for small businesses and Section 190 of the IRS Code allows a tax deduction for all businesses. The tax credit is available to businesses that have total revenues of $1,000,000 or less in the previous tax year or 30 or fewer full-time employees. This credit can cover 50% of the eligible access expenditures in a year up to $10,250 (maximum credit of $5000). The tax credit can be used to offset the cost of undertaking barrier removal and alterations to improve accessibility; providing accessible formats such as Braille, large print and audio tape; making available a sign language interpreter or a reader for customers or employees; and for purchasing certain adaptive equipment. The tax deduction is available to all businesses with a maximum deduction of $15,000 per year. The tax deduction can be claimed for expenses incurred in barrier removal and alterations. To learn more about the tax credit and tax deduction provisions, contact the DOJ ADA Information Line (at 800-514-0301 (voice); 800-514-0383 (TTY), or see our Tax & Leasing Info page.

Q:

How do I determine if it is readily achievable for me to install a lift in my existing pool?

Readily achievable means that providing access is easily accomplished without much difficulty or expense. This is a flexible, case-by-case analysis, with the goal of ensuring that ADA requirements are not unduly burdensome, including to small businesses. The readily achievable analysis is based on factors such as the nature and cost of the needed action; all the financial, staff and other resources available to the business and any parent entity; and the impact on the operation of the site, including legitimate safety requirements that are necessary for safe operation. Generally, a mere franchisor-franchisee relationship, where the franchisor does not own or operate the franchisee business, will not require consideration of the franchisor's resources in determining what is readily achievable.

This is the same standard that places of public accommodation have been using for all covered elements of existing facilities since 1992. Guidance on "Common Questions: Readily Achievable Barrier Removal" is available at http://www.ada.gov//adata1.htm (1996).

Q:

I've decided that it is readily achievable to provide a lift, but the lift I ordered is on back order. Do I have to close my pool until the lift arrives?

No. A business in this situation should order and install a compliant lift and install it when it becomes available.

Q:

I do not have a lift at my pool and it is not readily achievable to provide one now. Do I have to close the pool?

No. If accessibility is not readily achievable, the Department recommends that businesses develop a plan to provide access into the pool when it becomes readily achievable in the future. Because accessibility in existing facilities is an ongoing obligation, a covered entity must provide accessible features when it becomes readily achievable to do so.

Q:

What if I can't afford to install a fixed lift in my pool, or it would be difficult to do so?

In that case, installation is not required. If it is not readily achievable for a business to provide a fixed lift - that is, if it would be too difficult or expensive to make these changes - then a business may use other ways, such as a non-fixed lift, to provide access to the pool. If it is not readily achievable to provide access to the existing pool, even by way of a non-fixed lift, the business need not do so. Nonetheless, it should make a plan to achieve compliance with the pool access requirements when doing so becomes readily achievable.

Q:

What is the Department of Justice's approach to ensure compliance with the ADA regulation pertaining to pool lifts?

As a general matter, the Department favors voluntary compliance with the ADA from covered entities. The Department seeks collaborative approaches. To achieve these objectives, the Department has a robust outreach and technical assistance program designed to assist businesses and State and local governments to understand their obligations under the ADA.

Q:

I’ve provided a pool lift. Do I have any further legal obligations?

Once an accessible means of entry to a pool, such as your lift, has been provided, it needs to remain available and in working condition while the pool is open to the public. Staff should also be trained so they will know how the lift works, where it is located, and how to operate and maintain it. For example, a pool lift that operates on batteries may need to be recharged periodically. To be sure that lift remains operable, staff should know how to charge the battery and be assigned to perform the task as necessary.

Q:

Can I store my lift and bring it out only when it is requested by a person with a disability?

No. A pool lift must remain in place and be operational during all times that the pool is open to guests. The ADA and its implementing regulations require equal and independent access for people with disabilities for all covered facilities (not just pools). Allowing covered entities to store lifts and only take them out on request places unnecessary additional burdens on people with disabilities. People with disabilities have long faced the challenges of dealing with portable accessibility features - e.g., staff are unavailable or too busy to help locate and set up the equipment, the equipment is missing, the equipment isn't maintained, or staff do not know how to safely set up the equipment. In addition, the ADA Standards specify that a lift must be located at the proper water depth and with the necessary space around it to maneuver a wheelchair. Moving a portable lift around raises the likelihood that the lift will be improperly located, making it difficult or dangerous to use.

Q:

Do I have to leave my pool lift out at poolside when by pool is closed?

No. Pool lifts are required to be available only when the pool is open and available to the public. If a pool is closed during the winter months or at night, the public accommodation is free to remove the lift from the pool and store it.

Q:

If I can't provide a lift at every pool, do I have to close the one(s) that has no lift?

No. If it is not readily achievable to provide a lift at each pool, the inaccessible pool(s) may remain open.

Q:

What if I have two pools, or a pool and a spa? Can I share a lift between pools?

In new construction, each pool or spa must provide accessible entry and exit. For existing pools, whether each pool or spa must have its own lift (or other accessible means of entry) depends on whether it is readily achievable. If it is not readily achievable for a business to provide a lift at each pool or spa, it does not mean the inaccessible pool or spa must be closed. In these circumstances, the business should make a plan to purchase and install a compliant pool lift or other accessible entry when it becomes readily achievable to do so.

Sharing non-fixed pool lifts between pools can pose safety risks to swimmers with disabilities because if a lift has been moved to another pool, a person with a disability might be unable to get out of the pool. Sharing lifts between pools also requires people with disabilities to rely on staff assistance to find, move, and set up the lift each time.

Q:

I already purchased a portable lift before March 15, 2012. Can I still use it?

Yes. If you have purchased a non-fixed lift before March 15th that otherwise complies with the requirements in the 2010 Standards for pool lifts (such as seat size, etc.), you may use it, as long as you keep it in position for use at the pool and operational during all times that the pool is open to guests. Because of a misunderstanding by some pool owners regarding whether the use of portable pool lifts would comply with barrier removal obligations, the Department, as a matter of prosecutorial discretion, will not enforce the fixed elements of the 2010 Standards against those owners or operators of existing pools who purchased portable lifts prior to March 15, 2012 and who keep the portable lifts in position for use at the pool and operational during all times that the pool is open to guests so long as those lifts otherwise comply with the requirements of the 2010 Standards. Generally, lifts purchased after March 15, 2012 must be fixed if it is readily achievable to do so.

If a portable lift was purchased after March 15, 2012, the obligation to remove barriers is an ongoing one. If it becomes readily achievable to attach the lift to the pool at a later date you must do so. Manufacturers, for example, are providing kits to attach portable lifts.

Q:

What is the difference between a "portable" lift and a "fixed" lift?

The real issue is not whether a lift is "portable" versus "fixed," but rather whether a lift is "fixed" versus "non-fixed." A fixed lift means that the lift is attached to the pool deck or apron in some way. A non-fixed lift means that it is not attached in any way. Therefore, a portable lift that is attached to the pool deck would be considered a fixed lift. Thus, owners of portable lifts can fully comply with the access requirements by affixing their lifts to the pool deck or apron.

Q:

Does a community pool have to provide an accessible means of exit and entry?

Community pools that are associated with a private residential community and are limited to the exclusive use of residents and their guests are not covered by the ADA accessibility requirements. On the other hand, if a swimming pool/club located in a residential community is made available to the public for rental or use, it is covered under Title III of the ADA. If a community pool is owned or operated by a state or local government entity, it is covered by Title II of the ADA, which requires "program accessibility." See http://www.ada.gov/pools_2010.htm.

Q:

My pool already existed before the effective date of the new rule. What am I required to do to provide pool access to customers with mobility disabilities?

The ADA requires businesses to make existing pools accessible only when it is "readily achievable" to do so. Readily achievable means that providing access is easily accomplishable without much difficulty or expense. The 2010 Standards provide the benchmark, or goal, for accessibility in existing pools. (See "What does the ADA require for accessibility of pools” for the 2010 Standards requirements for pools). However, owners of existing pools need to comply with the 2010 Standards only to the extent that doing so is readily achievable for them.

The 2010 Standards for pool lifts require lifts to be fixed and to meet additional requirements for location, size of the seat, lifting capacity, and clear floor space. Therefore, if a business can provide a fixed lift that meets all of the 2010 Standards' requirements without much difficulty or expense, the business must provide one. If no fully compliant lift is readily achievable for the business, the business is not obligated to provide a fully compliant lift until doing so becomes readily achievable. In addition, the business may provide a non-fixed lift that otherwise complies with the requirements in the 2010 Standards if doing so is readily achievable and if full compliance is not.

Q:

What does the ADA require for accessibility of pools?

Title III of the ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by places of public accommodation, including many private businesses. Title III requires newly constructed and altered business facilities to be fully accessible to people with disabilities, applying the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. In addition, Title III requires businesses to remove accessibility barriers in existing facilities when doing so is readily achievable.

The 2010 Standards require that newly constructed or altered swimming pools, wading pools, and spas have an accessible way for people with disabilities to enter and exit the pool. The Standards also provide technical specifications for when a means of entry is accessible, such as, for pool lifts, the location, size of the seat, lifting capacity, and clear floor space. You can see the 2010 ADA Standards at http://www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm.

For existing swimming pools built before the effective date of the new rule, the 2010 Standards provide the guide for achieving accessibility. However, full compliance may not be required in existing facilities (see "My pool already existed before the effective date of the new rule. What am I required to do to provide pool access to customers with mobility disabilities?")

The 2010 Standards explain whether a newly constructed or altered pool needs to have one or two accessible means of entry and exit. Section 242 provides that large pools (pools with 300 linear feet of pool wall or more) must have two accessible means of entry and exit. One means of entry/exit must be a fixed pool lift or sloped entry; the other entry can be a transfer wall, transfer system, or pool stairs. Small pools (pools with less than 300 linear feet of pool wall) must provide at least one accessible means of entry/exit, which must be either a fixed pool lift or a sloped entry.

The 2010 Standards also provide details about what features an accessible means of entry or exit should have. Specifically, section 1009 addresses the location, size of the seat, lifting capacity, and clear floor space required for fixed pool lifts, as well as the requirements for sloped entries, transfer walls, transfer systems, and pool stairs. A copy of the 2010 ADA Standards is available at http://www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm.

The 2010 Standards require that new or altered wading pools have a sloped entry. New or altered spas must have at least one accessible means of entry, which may be a transfer wall, a transfer system, or a pool lift. See sections 242.3 and 242.4 of the 2010 Standards.

Q:

What is the effective compliance date of the ADA Standards for Accessible Pools?

The effective date of the 2010 Standards generally is March 15, 2012. However, and in response to public comments and concerns, the Department has extended the date for compliance for the requirements related to the provision of accessible entry and exit to existing swimming pools, wading pools, and spas to January 31, 2013.

Q:

Are Inter-Fab Basketball Games Still Available?

No, these have been replaced with the S.R.Smith pool basketball games. The new part number for the 12" set back residential pool basketball game with a rectangular backboard is BASK-CHA-16. These offer the 16" spacing between anchors to allow replacing an old Inter-Fab set with the new S.R.Smith set. The 1/2 moon shape is no longer available.

Q:

Does S.R.Smith make pool basketball games with breakaway rims?

No, S.R.Smith does not make pool basketball games with breakaway rims.

Q:

Will Inter-Fab basketball backboards work with S.R.Smith basketball games?

No, Inter-Fab basketball game backboards will not fit the S.R.Smith basketball games.

Q:

How can I order the hardware kit for the S.R.Smith SPG-200 basketball game backboard?

The hardware does not come with the SPG-200 backboard, but it can be ordered separately, part number: S-CHE-516. With S.R.Smith selling through distribution only, you will need to order this part through a pool dealer in your area. The hardware kit does include the rim, part number: S-RIM-CHE.

Q:

Can I order a replacement pool seat?

Yes, the replacement part number for the in-pool seat is: WS-POOLSEAT-XX (change the XX to the appropriate color seat needed). S.R.Smith sells through distribution so the best way to order a new pool seat is to reach out to a local pool dealer in your area.

Q:

How do I fix a wobbly in-pool seat or table?

A Shim Kit is provided with each pool table kit and is designed to help stabilize in-pool tables and seats. This kit includes 5" x 5" sheet of plastic shim material in the following thicknesses: .003", .005", .008", and .010" - the part number for this kit is: TABLE SHIM KIT.  If a replacement Shim Kit is needed, please reach out to us at customercare@srsmith.com.

Q:

Does the umbrella come with the in-pool furniture tables?

No, the umbrella does not come with the In-Pool Furniture Tables. You can use any outdoor umbrella that is 1.50" O.D.

Q:

Are the poles used in the in-pool furniture tables and seats marine grade?

Yes, the in-pool table and seat sets include marine grade poles.

Q:

How can I order replacement parts for in-pool tables and seating?

To order replacement parts for in-pool tables and seating please contact customercare@srsmith.com. Common replacement parts include:

• In-pool table or seat support pin: 13-405
• In-pool table or seat receiver: 6-104

Q:

What is the best way to cut the stainless steel poles for the in-pool furniture?

To cut the stainless steel poles for the in-pool seating and tables please use a hacksaw with a BRAND NEW BLADE.  This will prevent cross contamination of the stainless steel pole with carbon steel.

Q:

Can an in-pool furniture table or seat be ordered with a custom pole?

Yes, S.R.Smith does offer custom pole lengths to accommodate customers, but we do not suggest a pole be any longer than 54" since it may cause the table or seat to be wobbly. If a custom pole is required, submit the request to customercare@srsmith.com or reach out to your local pool dealer.

Q:

Can the Destination Series in-pool furniture table and seating fit into an umbrella anchor that is 1.50" OD?

Q:

What is the size of the volleyball in the pool volleyball game?

The volleyball is a size 7 basketball - meaning it has a 29.5" circumference and weighs 22 oz.

Q:

Can pool volleyball game nets be ordered in custom sizes?

Yes, custom volleyball nets can be ordered for our pool volleyball games. Send the dimensions to customercare@srsmith.com. Custom volleyball nets generally take 3 weeks.