Pool owners rely on various pieces of equipment to maintain their swimming pools, with the pool reel being one of the most essential. A pool reel is primarily used to roll and unroll pool covers, making pool maintenance easier and more efficient.
However, like all equipment, these reels eventually wear out or become obsolete. Instead of discarding them, it’s worth exploring ways to recycle or upcycle them, reducing environmental impact and finding new uses for old materials.
This article will explore the importance of recycling pool reels, how to do it properly, and several innovative upcycling ideas to give old equipment a second life.
Understanding the Environmental Impact of Pool Reels
A pool reel is usually made from materials such as aluminum, plastic, and stainless steel. These materials are durable, but their production and disposal can have environmental consequences.
- Aluminum ─ While highly recyclable, its production requires significant energy, contributing to carbon emissions.
- Plastic components ─ Some plastics can take hundreds of years to decompose if not properly recycled.
- Stainless steel ─ Though long-lasting, improper disposal can lead to waste accumulation.
Given these factors, simply throwing away an old pool reel contributes to unnecessary landfill waste. Instead, recycling or repurposing these materials can help reduce environmental harm while offering creative and practical solutions.
How to Recycle Pool Reels
Disassembling the Pool Reel
Before recycling, you must disassemble the reel into its individual parts. Most pool reels consist of:
- Metal components (aluminum or steel) – Often found in the frame and reel tube.
- Plastic parts – Typically in wheels, handles, and connectors.
- Fasteners and small parts – Screws, bolts, and brackets that may be made of metal or plastic.
Sorting Materials for Recycling
After dismantling the pool reel, separate the materials accordingly:
- Aluminum and stainless steel ─ These metals are valuable and widely accepted at metal recycling centers.
- Plastics ─ Check for recycling codes on plastic components to determine if they are recyclable in your area.
- Rubber or foam parts ─ Some reels have foam or rubber handles, which may not be recyclable but can sometimes be repurposed.
Taking Materials to a Recycling Facility
Once sorted, drop off the materials at appropriate recycling centers. Some metal scrap yards pay for aluminum and steel, while plastic recycling centers accept certain plastic types. If unsure, check with your local waste management service for guidance.
Upcycling Ideas ─ Transforming an Old Pool Reel into Something New
Recycling is a great way to manage waste, but upcycling is even better because it transforms old materials into functional, creative, and aesthetically pleasing objects. Below are some excellent ways to upcycle a pool reel instead of disposing of it.
Turn It into a Garden Hose Reel
If your pool reel is still functional but no longer needed for your pool, repurpose it into a garden hose storage reel.
- The same mechanism that rolls and unrolls a pool cover can work perfectly for a hose.
- Mount the reel on a wall or a stand to keep your garden hose organized and tangle-free.
- This prevents kinks in the hose and makes watering the garden much more convenient.
Create a DIY Outdoor Table
The sturdy frame of a pool reel makes it an excellent base for an outdoor table.
- Place a wooden or glass tabletop over the frame.
- Paint or coat the metal parts to match your outdoor décor.
- This creates a rustic or modern-style patio table without purchasing new materials.
Use It as a Trellis for Climbing Plants
Transforming an old pool reel into a trellis is an eco-friendly way to enhance your garden.
- Climbing plants like vines, tomatoes, and ivy will benefit from the sturdy structure.
- Set the reel vertically against a fence or wall to provide plant support.
- This helps maximize vertical garden space, making it ideal for small yards.
Make a Portable Shade Structure
If you have the metal tubing from an old pool reel, use it to create a lightweight frame for shade cloth or a tarp.
- Ideal for covering seating areas, kids’ play areas, or even a small greenhouse.
- The reel mechanism can allow for adjustable shade, rolling or unrolling the cloth as needed.
Upcycle into a Bike Rack
Bicycle storage can be tricky, especially for families with multiple bikes. The sturdy aluminum frame of a pool reel can be adapted into a bike rack:
- Cut and reassemble the tubing to create slots for holding bike tires.
- Mount the structure against a wall or leave it free-standing in a garage.
- This helps organize bikes and prevents them from falling over.
Repurpose into a Drying Rack for Pool Toys and Towels
Instead of throwing away an old pool reel, convert it into a drying rack for pool toys, swimwear, or towels.
- Attach horizontal bars across the reel for hanging wet items.
- Place it near your pool area to make it easy to dry items in the sun.
- This reduces clutter around the pool while ensuring proper drying and maintenance of swim accessories.
Buying Eco-Friendly Pool Reels for the Future
Beyond recycling and upcycling, making sustainable purchasing choices can reduce waste in the long run. When investing in a new pool reel, consider:
- Materials ─ Opt for reels made of recycled or highly recyclable materials like aluminum over plastic.
- Durability ─ Higher-quality reels last longer, reducing replacement frequency.
- Eco-conscious brands ─ Support manufacturers committed to sustainability, such as those offering recycling programs or using renewable energy in production.
The Role of Pool Equipment Manufacturers in Sustainability
Pool equipment manufacturers have a significant role to play in reducing environmental impact. Some key steps they can take include:
- Offering recycling programs where consumers can return old pool reels for proper disposal.
- Using sustainable materials, such as recycled aluminum or biodegradable plastics.
- Innovating designs that extend the lifespan of products, reducing overall waste.
As more consumers demand eco-friendly options, manufacturers will be encouraged to adopt greener practices.
Conclusion
Recycling and upcycling pool reels are practical ways to reduce waste, conserve materials, and promote sustainability in pool maintenance. By exploring these options, pool owners can ensure that old equipment doesn’t simply end up in landfills.
Whether by recycling metals and plastics, transforming reels into new functional items, or making eco-conscious purchasing decisions, every effort contributes to a healthier planet. With a little creativity, an old pool reel can find a second life in countless ways!
