Every pool owner needs to know the quantity of water in their pools. This way, they can determine their maximum bather load capacity. Contrary to popular belief, measuring the volume of your pool in gallons is pretty straightforward. Even so, this depends on your type of pool. Determining the gallons in irregular-shaped pools is more complex. In this article, we show you how to do capacity calculations for different pool shapes.
Geometric Formulas #
Most geometric pools are rectangular, square, or circular. Below are some of the general formulas for calculating the volume of a geometric pool.
Calculating Volume #
Use the below formula:
Volume in gallons = Length x width x depth x 7.5.
Generally, finding the volume of the pool entails multiplying the (length x width) with the height. Note that the volume is usually in cubic feet. 7.5 gallons is equivalent to one cubic foot.
Circular swimming pool #
The formula for obtaining the volume of a circular pool is shown below.
Volume in gallons = 3.14 x radius squared x average depth x 7.5
For example, if your pool has a radius of 5 feet and an average height of 3 feet, finding the volume in gallons will be:
Volume in gallons = 3.14 x 25 x 3 x 7.5
Note that 3.14 is a mathematical constant and is often used in calculating circular/round surfaces.
If you have a separate circular spa, you may have to calculate the volume separately and then add the two results.
Kidney or Irregular Shapes #
When it comes to irregular pools, you divide the pool into regular portions. Calculate the volume of each and add them together. It would be best to separate the circular, rectangular, and square sections of the pool. Then, calculate the volume of each. The formula should look like this.
Volume in gallons = 0.45 x (A+B) x pool length x average pool height x 7.5
Add volume A and volume B. Then, multiply by 0.45. Doing this will give you the area of the irregular pool. Then, multiply the surface area with the length and average depth. Afterward, multiply by 7.5 to get the volume in gallons.
Conclusion #
Knowing the volume of your swimming pool in gallons is vital. It enables you to determine the bather load capacity. Also, it allows you to use the right amount of chemicals to pour into your pool.
