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“Homeowners should choose an alarm that is right for their family and environment,” Katchmarchi recommends.
The Spruce
We evaluated each pool alarm for ease of setup and use, reliability, and tamper resistance.
We put this pool alarm through its paces in our home and particularly loved its unobtrusive design.
We wish the suction cup was stronger, though.
PHOTO: Amazon
This is a fairly basic alarm, but it does have some nice features.
We used that mode a lot, even when having the pool serviced, to avoid false alarms.
We opted to set ours inside asunroom windowwith a clear view of our pool, which worked just fine.
The Lifebuoy BCone System includes the sensor and a remote alarm and control unit.PHOTO: The Spruce
This alarm was easy to set up, the whole installation process only took about 15 minutes.
It never sounded a false alarm either.
you could set up the alarm by placing a magnetic sensor on either side of the door frame.
Once the door closes again, it automatically resets itself for the next use.
This inexpensive alarm is powered by a 9-volt battery, which usually lasts around a year.
But we do like that it comes with a one-year warranty in case any problems arise.
Unfortunately, we found that it has somewhat weak detection.
We also assessed pool alarms with Wi-Fi connectivity and app controls.
Ease of setup: We timed how long it took to unbox and set up each pool alarm.
Alarm reliability: To measure the reliability of each alarm, we attempted to activate them intentionally.
For standard entry (wave sensor, camera, etc.)
alarms, we simulated someone falling into the pool from different heights.
PHOTO: Amazon
We then started a stopwatch and observed how long it took each alarm to trigger.
For gate entry alarms, we simulated unauthorized access by opening the gate with the alarm enabled.
We then used a stopwatch to record how long it took for the alarm to activate.
The Blue Wave NA4212 Poolwatch Pool Alarm requires permanent installation by drilling the pool deck.PHOTO: The Spruce
If tampering resulted in alarm activation, we noted how long it took.
We also noted any instances where the alarm alerted us to unauthorized pool access and false positives.
Pool alarms can connect to smartphones through either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Compatibility with a smart speaker also allows you to control your pool alarm with voice commands.
The SwamCam also provides push notifications to your phone as a backup.
Multiple Alarm Modes
The most basic pool alarms are always on, which isnt always convenient.
Some useful alarm modes include:
Installation Requirements
Different types of pool alarms have different installation requirements.
Some are quick and easy, and others require extensive drilling, mounting, and even electrical wiring.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Our Experts:
Learn the Five Layers of Protection, NDPA.org.
Standard Safety Specification for Residential Pool Alarms.
PHOTO: Amazon
We installed the SwamCam Pool Alarm inside with a clear view of the pool.PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: Amazon
We installed the Techko S187D on the sliding glass door that opens into our pool area.PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: Amazon
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