Buying guide for best pool alarms
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A backyard pool provides plenty of fun and healthy exercise for the whole family, but it can also pose a serious risk to unattended children and pets. A child or pet that falls into the pool can drown in a matter of minutes if no one is around to pull them out. That’s why a pool alarm is essential for every pool. Even if you don’t have kids or pets of your own, you want to protect family and friends and any young neighbors who wander into your yard.
There are several types of pool alarms, but they all provide an audible alert (and, in some cases, other notifications) to let you know when someone has entered your pool area or entered the water. For increased security, you can pair different types of alarms so you don’t miss any activity in or around your pool.
But for a pool alarm to be effective, you must be able to hear it when you’re inside the house. If your pool is some distance from the house, the alarm must be extremely loud or it might not be audible across a large yard. Many alarms are also designed to reduce the risk of false alerts, such as the alarm going off when a strong gust of wind blows across the water or an automatic pool cleaner is working. Our favorite is the SwamCam Pool Alarm Camera System.
Editors' picks
SwamCam Pool Alarm Camera System
Editors' Favorite
Type: Wall or fence mounted | Power source: Camera - standard wall outlet/keypad - 2 x AAA batteries | Detection range: 35’ and app 1,700 sq ft coverage | Certifications: ASTM F2208 Certified
If a pool alarm alone isn’t enough to give you peace of mind, the SwamCam Pool Alarm Camera System, which offers 1080p full HD video monitoring, lets you watch over your pool. Using AI motion detection, this alarm sounds at the pool, inside your home and remotely on your smartphone.
The connected app not only provides live video of your pool but also sends alerts, lets you talk to anyone poolside and allows you to make system adjustments.
There’s a one-touch Emergency Dial in the event of an accident. And you can use the Auto-Arm to select a custom time for the system to restart if you forget. This system comes with a weatherproof keypad that makes it easy for guests to use the pool, and the hardware is guaranteed for a year.
YardGard Door and Window Pool Alarm
Great Value
Type: Wall-Mounted | Power source: Battery-Powered | Detection range: NA | Certifications: UL 2017 Certified
The Yardgard Door and Window Pool Alarm is an affordable solution for those who want to monitor who enters their pool. It’s a wall-mounted unit that’s UL 2017-certified for reliable performance and adherence to industry safety standards.
It features a 120-decibel alarm that goes off when someone enters your pool. The water-resistant design makes it ideal for indoor or outdoor installation, and the one-touch bypass system allows for authorized entry whenever you need it. Since it’s battery-powered, you don’t need a complicated electrical setup, and you can easily install it on sliding doors, windows and walls with the included hardware.
Although it’s not as feature-packed as other pool alarms, it’s a fine unit for basic pool monitoring. Its easy installation makes it a customer favorite, and the loud alarm is excellent for those who want more range.
Poolguard PGRM-2 In-Ground Pool Alarm
Best for In-Ground Pools
Type: Wall–Mounted | Power source: Battery | Detection range: 800 sq. ft. | Certifications: NSF Certified to ASTM Standard F2208
The Poolguard PGRM-2 In-Ground Pool Alarm is always in alarm-ready mode once installed, so you don’t have to worry about turning it on. It’s a battery-powered, wall-mounted alarm that meets the ASTM F2208 NSF certification standard for reliable performance and safe operation.It automatically runs a system test when installed, and because it’s always activated, it will sound off if tampered with or removed from the pool. It works with pools up to 800 square feet and produces a loud 85-decibel horn alert to help you monitor children and pets. It has a one-year battery life and features a built-in low-battery alert, and you can put it in sleep mode whenever you want to go for a swim.
Backed by a three-year warranty and boasting advanced technology that reduces the frequency of false alarms, this pool alarm is a must-have if you want to know who’s in your pool at all times. It’s easy to install and has a rugged build for long-lasting performance.
Lifebuoy BCone System Pool Alarm
Best Smart In-Pool Alarm
Type: Pool-floating | Power source: 2 x AA Lithium Batteries (Included) | Detection range: NA | Certifications: ASTM Safety Specification F2208
You can forget about false alarms with the Lifebuoy BCone System Pool Alarm. Its advanced algorithm keeps it from going off when the wind blows, the rain falls or the automatic pool cleaner moves through the water. The alarm sounds from both the floating and home units.
Best of all, it works with all types of pools, spas and even garden ponds that are 20 by 40 feet or smaller. You can add multiple alarms to cover larger pools as well. The device is portable, so you can bring it with you wherever you need to keep your kids and pets safe.
This high-end alarm also offers a connected app so you can control the alarm remotely, even if you’re away from home. Plus the app is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can use voice commands to change settings. The Swim Mode makes it easy to swim without setting off the alarm, but the alarm automatically turns back on when no movement is detected for several minutes.
Pool Patrol Certified Pool Alarm
Easiest to Install
Type: Pool-floating | Power source: 9V Battery | Detection range: NA | Certifications: ASTM Safety Specification F2208
The affordable Pool Patrol Certified Pool Alarm is one of the easiest on our list to set up, and it won’t damage your pool structure or surfaces. You have plenty of control over the alarm because it offers several sensitivity levels, and you don’t have to worry about false alarms while protecting children and pets.
This alarm works in pools of any shape and effectively covers those that are 20 by 40 feet or smaller. If you have a larger pool, you can use additional units to protect the entire area.
At over 100 decibels, this alarm is very loud, so there’s little chance you won’t hear it. It runs on 9-volt batteries, which are easy to replace when necessary.
PoolGuard DAPT-2 Pool Alarm
Best Door Alarm
Type: Wall-mounted | Power source: 9V Battery | Detection range: NA | Certifications: UL 2017
If you want an alarm that reacts quickly, the PoolGuard door alarm system sounds at 85 decibels in just seven seconds when a child opens the gate. It keeps going until it’s reset, so you’ll never miss a thing. It also has a feature that allows adults to go through without triggering the alarm.
The system runs on a 9-volt battery that lasts for about a year, and a convenient low battery indicator warns you so you’re never caught unaware. This pool alarm is made in the United States and backed by a yearlong warranty.
HENDUN Wireless Door Alarm
Easy to Use
Type: Wall-mounted | Power source: 2 x AAA Batteries, 12V 27A Battery | Detection range: 328 feet | Certifications: None
This wall-mounted HENDUN Wireless Door Alarm is a simple and affordable solution for securing small spaces, including pools. It’s loud, which gives it a fantastic range of up to 328 feet in outdoor environments and 65 feet indoors. You can use it in doorbell mode or cover the horn with tape if you find it too loud.
The chime setting alerts you whenever people are coming and going, and you can toggle back and forth between chime and alarm modes. It comes with double-sided tape, making it easy to install on most walls or other surfaces, including sliding doors, refrigerators, drawers and windows.
This is a cheap yet effective pool alarm with the added convenience of a remote that allows users to arm, disarm and activate the panic alarm from up to 50 feet away. For under $30, this alarm is a no-brainer for those who want a simple pool alarm.
Blue Wave NA4212 Poolwatch Pool Alarm System
Loud & Reliable
Type: Pool-mounted | Power source: 6 D Batteries, 9V Batteries | Detection range: 100 ft | Certifications: NSF Certified to ASTM F2208
The convenient Blue Wave NA4212 Poolwatch Pool Alarm System works for both aboveground and in-ground pools, making it one of the most versatile models on our list. It can detect objects that weigh 18 pounds or more, so it will alert you to most kids and pets that fall into the water.
The system is designed to prevent false alarms, reducing the chances that it will sound due to wind, rain or an automatic pool cleaner. The in-house receiver has a 100-foot range to give you flexibility in where you place it.
This pool alarm sounds at more than 101 decibels, one of the loudest models on our list. The pool sensor runs on D batteries, but you can power the receiver with 9-volt batteries or an AC adapter to avoid having to replace batteries.
Lifebuoy Solo Pool Alarm
Best for Travel
Type: Pool-floating | Power source: 2 x AA Batteries | Detection range: 100 ft | Certifications: None
The Lifebuoy Solo Pool Alarm’s sensor can detect objects as light as 5 pounds entering the pool, making it a fantastic, easy-to-operate option for those with small children. It also offers different sensitivity levels if you want it to detect heavier objects only.
At 110 decibels, this pool alarm is loud, ensuring you’ll hear it from anywhere near the pool. It's UV-resistant build allows it to withstand excessive sunlight and isn’t affected by pool chemicals. Swim Mode is a fantastic feature for uninterrupted swimming. However, the alarm automatically reactivates a few minutes after the last person exits the pool.
The Solo is powerful and boasts advanced technology that minimizes minor disturbances. It’s also portable, making it convenient for travel, and the app allows for quick configurations.
Best for Gates
Type: Wall-mounted | Power source: 9V Battery | Detection range: N/A | Certifications: ETL Listed, UL 2017
The Techko S187D is a straightforward pool alarm that’s affordable, ETL-listed and UL 2017 certified. This means it offers high-end performance and safety functionality.
It’s a wall-mounted unit with a piercing 110-decibel alarm sound and versatility for installation on various surfaces, including sliding doors, regular doors, French doors and pool gates. The two bypass buttons allow adults to deactivate the alarm temporarily. The kit comes with two sensors, allowing you to have the alarm active while your sliding door is open and the screen door is shut.
This pool alarm is easy to install and even easier to operate thanks to the bypass buttons. Although it lacks premium features you would get with some of our other top picks, it’s one of the more affordable options at under $50.
Most Durable
Type: Wall-mounted | Power source: 3 x AAA Batteries | Detection range: NA | Certifications: ETL Listed, UL 2017
The ultra-slim Techko S189 Ultra Slim Safe Pool Alarm is one of the easiest to install and has a surprisingly durable build given its sleek form factor. The 110-decibel alarm can be heard from most places in your home, and the temporary bypass system allows users to deactivate the alarm for 10 minutes.
The included weather-resistant adhesive allows for installation in indoor and outdoor environments, and the unit itself is resistant to inclement weather including heavy rainfall and snow. UL 2017 certification is approved for the highest child-safety standards, and the dual sensors that are included make it ideal for pool areas with two gates or door entrances.
It’s a fairly straightforward pool alarm that’s easy to install. Customers love it for its UL 2017 certification, loud alarm sound and easy operation. Plus, the included remote makes it easy to turn the alarm on and off.
What to know before buying a pool alarm
Pool type
Whether you have an in-ground or aboveground pool, you’ll want to be sure that the alarm you choose is compatible with your type of pool. This is especially important if you’re choosing an alarm that mounts to the pool wall. It might be more difficult to mount an alarm to a round wall than a straight wall.
Alarm type
Wall/fence-mounted alarms: These pool alarms provide a simple solution if your goal is to keep intruders out of your pool area. Opening the gate triggers the alarm, so you’ll know right away if someone is trying to break in. However, these alarms can be easily thwarted if the intruder simply jumps over the fence. The Poolguard PGRM-2 In-Ground Pool Alarm and SwamCam Pool Alarm Camera are both wall-mounted units.
Personal immersion detectors: Parents interested in keeping young children or pets safe around the pool might want to invest in a personal immersion detector. A child wears a wristband (which can also be attached to a pet’s collar) that communicates with an alarm base unit. If a child or pet goes in the pool, the alarm is automatically triggered so that you can come to the rescue.
Pool-mounted alarms: These alarms can be mounted to the pool wall or float on the water with a tether connecting them to the edge. The alarm sounds when it senses waves or a substantial weight entering the water. Some underwater pool-mounted alarms detect subsurface movements. One of these is a smart choice if you’re interested in an alarm that can both guard against intruders and alert you to anyone who may accidentally fall in the pool. The Poolguard PGRM-2 In-Ground Pool Alarm is a pool-mounted alarm, while the Lifebuoy BCONE System Pool Alarm is a good example of a floating alarm device.
Alarm sensitivity
A pool alarm is a useful device but not if it’s responding to every leaf and twig that falls in the water. Too many false alarms could make you less inclined to use it. Manufacturers have found a way around this by instituting different sensitivity levels.
Most alarms are set up so that they won’t sound unless something that weighs at least 15 to 20 pounds enters the pool. This should be large enough to detect most pets and young children while avoiding false alarms from leaves or other debris. The best pool alarms let you adjust the sensitivity level to minimize false alarms.
Our top pick, the Lifebuoy BCONE System Pool Alarm, and Pool Patrol PA-30 Pool Alarm both have multiple sensitivity levels. The SwamCam Pool Alarm Camera does not offer adjustable sensitivity levels because it utilizes AI for human detection and allows customization of the danger-detection zone.
Range
If you’re purchasing multiple alarms or a pool alarm with multiple components, such as a personal immersion detector, it likely has a base that sits outside the immediate pool area in a place where you can hear it if it sounds. In that case, you need to pay attention to the alarm’s range so you don’t position the alarm and base too far apart. Too far apart and the system may not work properly.
Some pool alarms connect to an app on your phone and automatically notify you if the alarm goes off even if you’re not at home when it happens. This is a nice option if you’d like to keep an eye on your home when you’re traveling.
The Lifebuoy BCONE System Pool Alarm does not have a specified range, but users can connect up to four devices for broader coverage. The Poolguard PGRM-2 In-Ground Pool Alarm works with pools up to 800 square feet. The Pool Patrol PA-30 Pool Alarm requires a 200-foot line-of-sight distance for the remote receiver, and the SwamCam Pool Alarm Camera covers an area up to 35 feet away in every direction of its view.
Controls
Some pool alarms include a remote that enables you to turn off the alarm. Others require you to turn off the alarm at the base unit inside your home or at the alarm itself. A remote isn’t an essential feature, but it’s certainly convenient if your alarm isn’t within easy reach.
Additionally, you want your pool alarm to be loud enough to hear but not so loud that it wakes up the neighborhood in the middle of the night. Look for a pool alarm with an adjustable volume control.
The Lifebuoy BCONE System Pool Alarm can be controlled with the included remote, through the base unit or through the smartphone app. The PoolGuard PGRM-2 In-Ground Pool Alarm can only be controlled with the remote key fob, and the PoolGuard DAPT-2 Water Hazard Pool Door Alarm has a bypass feature for adults. The Pool Patrol PA-30 Pool Alarm’s remote receiver can be placed up to 200 feet away from the floating alarm unit. The SwamCam Pool Alarm Camera can be managed through the smartphone app, but it also comes with a digital remote keypad for arming and disarming the system.
Tips for using a pool alarm
- Read the instruction manual first. Make sure that you understand how to use and maintain your pool alarm before you install it.
- Know how to shut off the pool alarm. Teach all the adults in your household how to use the system to prevent false alarms. And always remember to turn the pool alarm back on when you’re finished enjoying the pool.
- Replace the batteries in the pool alarm regularly. If your pool alarm uses batteries, be sure to replace the batteries on a regular basis to keep the alarm functioning properly.
How we analyzed
We considered dozens of pool alarms, ultimately deciding to include models that are easy to install and have an excellent range. The best pool alarms have several positive customer reviews reporting high sensitivity for unauthorized entry. Plus, we considered both wall-mounted and pool-floating devices for added convenience.
FAQ
Q. How much do pool alarms cost?
A. Pool alarms range in price from about $80 to $300, and most cost about $100 to $175. You can expect to pay more for an alarm with specialty features, such as an app that controls the alarm from anywhere. But if you only need a basic unit to alert you to unexpected pool users, you shouldn’t need to spend more than $200.
The cheapest of our top five picks is the Yardgard Door and Window Pool Alarm at $39. The Lifebuoy BCONE System Pool Alarm is the most expensive floating alarm at $395, while the Pool Patrol PA-30 Pool Alarm is a significantly cheaper alternative that costs $220. The PoolGuard DAPT-2 Water Hazard Pool Door Alarm is a more affordable option that costs $63. However, if you want advanced technology and smart features, you’ll have to spend $500 for the SwamCam Pool Alarm Camera.
Q. How much weight will set off a pool alarm?
A. That depends on the alarm. Most have adjustable sensitivity levels so you can control the amount of weight that sets it off. In general, pool alarms are set to go off if something that weighs about 15 to 20 pounds enters the pool.
Q. Can wind trigger a pool alarm?
A. If you have a pool alarm that’s triggered by waves on the water’s surface, wind could set off a false alarm. If this concerns you, you can try a pool alarm that sits below the water’s surface and picks up subsurface motion.
Q. Can pool alarms be used in hot tubs?
A. Many pool alarms should work in hot tubs. If you’re unsure, contact the manufacturer to find out.
