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Swimming pool alarms detect and notify nearby adults of unwanted entry into a pool or pool area. A reliable and simple-to-use pool alarm is a must-have for any home with a pool, but especially for those homes with children or pets. When used as part of a pool safety system, these devices help keep your family, friends, and guests safer—so much so that they’re mandatory in some areas. Keep reading to learn about the best pool alarm products that make owning a swimming pool safer.
- BEST OVERALL: Poolguard PGRM-2 Inground Pool Alarm
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: GE 12-Pack Personal Security Alarm
- BEST POOL-ENTRY ALARM: Pool Patrol PA-30 Pool Alarm
- BEST USER-ENTRY ALARM: LunaSafe Pool/Boat Wearable Transmitter
- BEST GATE ALARM: SPQ Brands YardGard Pool Gate/Window Alarm
- BEST FOR SLIDING DOORS: Techko Pool Entry Gate Alarm
- BEST FOR ABOVE-GROUND POOL: PoolEye Above-Ground Pool Alarm
- BEST SMART CONTROL: Lifebuoy Pool Alarm System
- ALSO CONSIDER: Poolguard DAPT-2 Water Hazard Pool Door Alarm
How We Chose the Best Pool Alarms
Installing the best pool alarm can make a big difference in keeping swimmers safe. To narrow down our top pool alarms, we conducted extensive product research and consulted consumer reviews of over 20 products.
Since safety is the primary criteria, we prioritized products from reputable brands known for pool-safety products. We also considered ease of use—a pool alarm is only a benefit if it is used consistently—so we looked for alarms with a simple design. We also considered adjustable features, such as sensor sensitivity and siren volume.
The cost of a swimming pool alarm is a small price to pay for safety, but for those on a budget, we included a range of products at different price points.
Our Top Picks
A reliable pool alarm represents one layer of protection in a swimming pool safety plan. These alarms help keep everyone safe and provide peace of mind, especially in homes with children or pets. The best pool alarm products listed here are both dependable and easy to use.
Best Overall
Poolguard PGRM-2 Inground Pool Alarm
With a tamperproof design and an always-on feature, this Poolguard pool alarm is a reliable detector. Designed to monitor inground pools, it perches on the edge of the pool deck with its sensor in the water. The alarm is always on and monitoring the pool.
This alarm is designed to detect anything similar in size to a 1-year-old child, so it also detects unwanted access by a small- to medium-size pet. To alert adults in the home, it includes a remote receiver with a range of up to 200 feet.
This alarm features a tamperproof design that is suitable for inground pools. If removed without being disarmed, the alarm sounds. To use the pool, users activate the sleep mode. After swim time, simply put the alarm back in place, and the automatic wake-up feature switches the alarm back on.
Product Specs
- Type: Inground pool entry alarm
- Maximum pool size: 40 feet long by 20 feet wide
- Decibel level: 85 decibels
Pros
- Simple installation; simply drill a hole and mount into inground pools
- Tamperproof design; alarm will sound if the unit is moved or altered
- Detects entry from children and pets, plus automatic arming feature for user-friendliness
Cons
- Some users have reported poor durability
Get the Poolguard PGRM-2 pool alarm at Amazon.
Best Bang For The Buck
GE 12- Pack Personal Security Alarm
Perimeter detection is one of the most basic components of any pool safety plan. While these affordable door alarms from GE do not warn against access to the pool itself, they can be used to add extra security to doors and gates around the pool area. While they’re made primarily for indoor use and aren’t weatherproof, they may be suitable for well-covered, dry outdoor areas.
Installation is easy via the included double-sided tape. Once installed on a doorway or window, the magnet detector alarms loudly if the door or window is opened more than ½ inch. Choose from an alarm or chime.
Product Specs
- Type: Door/gate alarm
- Maximum pool size: Unlimited
- Decibel level: 120 decibels
Pros
- Simple installation; comes with double-sided tape and mounting hardware
- Includes 12 alarms for ample security and peace of mind
- Loud alarm at 120 decibels alerts you when a door is opened
Cons
- Suitable for indoor use only; not weatherproof
Get the GE pool alarm at Amazon.
Best Pool-Entry Alarm
Pool Patrol PA-30 Pool Alarm
This floating alarm from Pool Patrol is easy to install and features adjustable sensitivity to cater to individual needs. To use, simply place the Pool Patrol PA-30 pool alarm in any pool that measures 40 feet long by 20 feet wide or smaller (use multiple alarms for larger pools). With a low weight threshold of 15 pounds at its most sensitive setting, this Pool Patrol alarm uses a wave-detecting sensor to catch most pool entries.
When a large-enough wave hits the sensor, the onboard alarm goes off and sends a signal to the in-house remote receiver. Both the sensor and the receiver sound a loud alarm (over 90 decibels), and the remote receiver has a 200-foot range to notify adults of an unwanted entry. To reduce false alarms, simply twist the alarm to adjust the sensitivity.
Product Specs
- Type: Floating pool entry alarm
- Maximum pool size: 40 feet long by 20 feet wide
- Decibel level: 90 to 100 decibels at 10 feet
Pros
- Simple damage-free installation; simply plug in the receiver and place the transmitter in the pool
- 15-pound weight threshold is sensitive enough to detect small waves
- Adjustable detection sensitivity depending upon the individual user’s needs; twist the unit to reduce false alarms
Cons
- May not detect gradual entries in to the pool
Get the Pool Patrol pool alarm at Amazon.
Best User-Entry Alarm
LunaSafe Pool/Boat Wearable Transmitter
For user-entry security—a boon for pool owners with children and/or pets on their property—consider the LunaSafe pool/boat wearable transmitter. This system utilizes a locking wristband or clip for attaching to a child’s wrist or a dog’s collar that emits an audio and visual alarm to the receiver when it is exposed to water. The receiver alarm can also be paired with over 25 transmitters, making it ideal for trips to the lake, boating excursions, doggy daycares, and other water-oriented activities beyond one’s own backyard pool.
To set up, simply pair the transmitter with the receiver and attach the transmitter to a child or pet. Just be advised that the receiver must be charged occasionally to be operational.
Product Specs
- Type: User-entry alarm
- Maximum pool size: N/A
- Decibel level: Unlisted
Pros
- Comes with a transmitter as well as a receiver; emits a visual and audio alarm when exposed to water
- Can be worn as a wristband as well as a clip
- Receiver is easy to install and can be paired with over 25 transmitters
Cons
- Receiver must be charged occasionally to remain operational
- No decibel level listed; some users may not hear when the alarm sounds
Get the LunaSafe pool alarm at Lunasea Lighting.
Best Gate Alarm
SPQ Brands YardGard Gate/Window Alarm
A weatherproof design and one-touch bypass button make this SPQ Brands gate and window alarm a good choice for outdoor pool gates. It’s ideal for alarming outdoor gates, doors, and windows thanks to a water-resistant build that withstands the elements.
Mounting hardware is included, and this alarm is easy to install on wooden or metal gates, sliding glass doors, or windows. A one-touch bypass allows adults to pass by without setting off the alarm. If the alarm detects unauthorized access, the system sounds a 120-decibel alarm to alert nearby adults and neighbors, providing an extra layer of security.
Product Specs
- Type: Outdoor gate alarm
- Maximum pool size: Unlimited
- Decibel level: 120 decibels
Pros
- Water-resistant construction is ideal for a variety of outdoor areas
- Easy to install on wood, metal, and other surfaces with included mounting hardware
- Loud 120-decibel siren can be heard from virtually anywhere in a home or yard
Cons
- Not as aesthetically pleasing as some comparable options
Get the SPQ Brands pool alarm at Amazon.
Best For Sliding Doors
Techko Pool Entry Gate Alarm
Sliding glass or screen doors that access the pool area can be difficult to arm because most door alarms have only one sensor, which must be removed or disabled to keep the door open. This weather-resistant door alarm from Techko features two sensors to solve the problem.
When installing the alarm on a screened sliding door, place one sensor on the glass door and the other on the screen door. When one of the two doors is closed, the sensor won’t sound, allowing you to leave the screen door closed and the sliding door open.
Once installed, this weather-resistant alarm is always monitoring. A bypass button gives adults 8 to 12 seconds to pass through the door without sounding the 110-decibel alarm.
Product Specs
- Type: Outdoor gate alarm
- Maximum pool size: Unlimited
- Decibel level: 110 decibels
Pros
- Includes 2 sensors to allow 1 door to remain open; ideal for screened sliding doors
- Weather-resistant construction is ideal for outdoor use, including doors that access pool area
- Mounting hardware included for user-friendliness
Cons
- System has several wires, which may look messy
Get the Techko pool alarm at Lowe’s.
Best For Above-Ground Pool
PoolEye Above-Ground Pool Alarm
Safety and security measures are not for inground pools only! This PoolEye above-ground pool alarm attaches to the top ledge of steel-wall pools with the included mounting hardware. The water motion sensor reaches under the pool’s surface, using subsurface wave detection to catch changes in water level if a person or object over 15 pounds is in the pool, resulting in an 85-decibel alarm sound.
The technology on this PoolEye model allows the alarm to detect intrusions reliably, resulting in fewer false alarms. An adjustable sensitivity switch adds even more reliability.
Product Specs
- Type: Above-ground pool-entry alarm
- Maximum pool size: 24-foot round pool or 32-foot-long by 16-foot-wide oval pool
- Decibel level: 85 decibels
Pros
- Simple to install in above-ground pools; all mounting hardware included with purchase
- Subsurface wave detection catches changes in the water if the object or person is over 15 pounds
- Adjustable sensitivity to suit an individual user’s preferences; reduces the number of false alarms
Cons
- Recommended for steel-wall pools only
- Lacks remote receiver; may not be ideal for some users
Get the PoolEye pool alarm at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Smart Control
Lifebuoy Pool Alarm System
Pool safety can be smarter with the Lifebuoy pool alarm system, a floating pool-entry alarm that connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth. The alarm detects motion in the water to trigger the alarm, which sets off an onboard and remote receiver alarm that works within 50 feet of the sensor. When it’s time to swim, activate swim mode to silence the alarm. If no movement is detected for 10 minutes, the pool alarm reactivates automatically.
You can download the Lifebuoy alarm app to connect to the alarm via Bluetooth, which can monitor the alarm and battery status and change basic controls like sensitivity level and siren length.
Product Specs
- Type: Floating pool-entry sensor
- Maximum pool size: 40 feet long by 20 feet wide
- Decibel level: 85+ decibels
Pros
- Reactivates automatically if there is no movement detected for 10 minutes
- App-based controls; connects to any smartphone via Bluetooth
- Attractive design floats in the pool without taking up a lot of space
Cons
- Bluetooth connectivity only; may not be ideal for some users
Get the Lifebuoy pool alarm at Amazon.
Also Consider
Poolguard DAPT-2 Water Hazard Pool Door Alarm
The weakest link of any pool area is its gate, which is why it’s wise to consider this Poolguard alarm. It can be installed on any outdoor or indoor gate, door, or screen and provides continuous monitoring except for the brief time when the pass-through button is activated.
If the pool gate is accidentally left open, the alarm sounds an 85-decibel siren after 7 seconds. The delay gives adults time to press the pass-through switch, so the alarm won’t automatically chime as soon as the door is opened. The delayed siren is designed to prevent false alarms.
Product Specs
- Type: Outdoor gate alarm
- Maximum pool size: Unlimited
- Decibel level: 85 decibels
Pros
- Will not take up a lot of space on a wall, fence, or pool gate
- Safe for outdoor use; can withstand inclement weather conditions
- Continuous monitoring provides peace of mind in homes with children
Cons
- Not as attractive as some other pool alarms on the market
Get the Poolguard DAPT-2 pool alarm at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Pool Alarm
Before buying a pool alarm, check local regulations. In some areas, certain types of pool alarms are mandatory (for example, a gate alarm). Begin by purchasing any mandatory alarms and add to the system from there. A pool alarm should be used in addition to other layers of protection, such as a fence, locking gate, safety cover, and adult supervision.
Types of Pool Alarms
The best pool alarm for a home depends not only on local regulations but also on the desired safety features and needs. Many homes combine pool alarms to create a fail-safe safety plan. Choose from the different types of pool alarms: standard, entry, or gate.
Standard Pool-Entry Alarms
A pool-entry alarm, which senses when someone or something enters the pool, contains a surface wave detection sensor that’s triggered when the water is disturbed. Pool-entry alarms float in the water or attach to the pool’s edge. Floating pool-entry alarms are not permanent and must be lifted in and out of the pool every time they’re used.
Poolside alarms, which install on the edge of the pool, contain a sensor arm that extends into the water to sense water movement. They can be a permanent or removable solution. To disable the alarm, some must be lifted from the water, while others have a “swim mode” that pauses the alarm when someone is in the pool. Some alarms must be reset after each use, but others automatically switch back on once the water is still.
Some alarms also have infrared motion detection, which operates like a motion-detecting burglar alarm to alert when triggered by a person or pet.
Gate Alarms
Gate alarms are designed for use with a fenced-in pool perimeter to sound an alert if anyone accesses the pool area. The best pool door alarms can be installed onto pool fence gates, sliding glass doors, or windows. These alarms blare a loud alarm if the threshold is compromised. However, since they can’t sense if someone actually enters the pool, gate alarms are often used alongside them.
In some municipalities, gate alarms are required by law, so check local bylaws and requirements. Gate alarms also don’t replace a gate lock; instead, they should be used together.
User-Entry Alarms
User-entry alarms are a wearable alarm system designed for children, pets, or adults who represent a safety risk. These alarms have two parts: a wristband or collar with a sensor and a base station. The sensor portion straps to a person’s wrist or around a pet’s neck and locks with a mechanism that only an adult can open. If the sensor gets wet, the base station sounds the alarm to alert nearby adults. User-entry alarms only protect those wearing a sensor.
Type of Pools
Pool alarms work for inground and/or above-ground pools. Since they don’t install or sit in the water, gate-entry alarms and user-entry alarms are suitable for all pool types. Most floating pool-entry alarms are suitable for both types.
Specific pool-entry alarms can be limited to inground pools or above-ground pools (including quick-set, soft-sided, or portable pools). Read the manufacturer’s recommendations to determine the correct pool type and installation requirements. Installing a pool alarm in the wrong type of pool may be dangerous.
Ease of Use
The best pool alarms are easy to use. When considering ease of use, determine the alarm’s ease of installation and how it arms and disarms.
Ease of installation typically depends on the pool alarm type. Floating pool-entry alarms and user-entry alarms are the easiest to install. Permanent pool-entry alarms and gate alarms usually require a few steps, but they stay in place for a long time.
Arming and disarming the alarm also vary depending on the alarm type. For example, floating alarms must be removed from the pool, while gate alarms or permanent pool-entry alarms must be manually switched on or off. Some pool-entry alarms have a convenient swim mode, which automatically turns on the alarm again after the water is still. The best pool alarm options have tamper guards and extra safety features so curious kids can’t disable the alarm.
Range
Most pool-entry alarms have a specific sensing range, often determined by the largest recommended pool size. Larger pools may require multiple sensors.
When choosing a pool-entry alarm, consider its weight-sensing threshold. Pool-entry alarms only detect objects over a certain weight, usually starting at around 10 to 20 pounds, which is a critical consideration in homes with small pets that weigh less than that.
Some pool alarms include a remote alarm receiver to plug inside the home that adds an extra layer of safety, setting off the alarm even when no one is near the pool.
Alarm Volume
A pool alarm is only as good as its notification system, and its alarm should be loud enough to notify someone inside the house. Even louder versions can notify neighbors.
The chime on the average alarm clock is about 70 to 80 decibels, and a pool alarm should reach the same decibel level or even higher.
For remote receiver alarms, 80 or more decibels is suitable. Look for even louder options for those without a remote receiver because someone inside the home must hear the outdoor pool alarm. Most pool alarms also list the decibel rating in relation to distance.
Smart Control
A smart pool alarm, which connects via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, allows you to control, monitor, or receive notifications through a smartphone. Smart control is most commonly provided for perimeter alarms like gate or doorway alarms, which often connect to a home security system.
Very few pool-entry alarms have smart controls, but a few are available. They usually connect to a smartphone for simple tasks, such as monitoring battery levels or setting various functions.
FAQs
For pool owners, pool safety is of the utmost importance. A pool alarm plays one part in preventing dangerous pool-related accidents, making your family safer and providing peace of mind. Ahead are some frequently asked questions along with their answers to help you install and use your new pool alarm.
Q. Where do I put a pool alarm?
Installation location depends on the pool alarm type, so follow the manufacturer’s directions as to where to install it. However, most pool alarms should be placed where adults, children, pets, and wildlife could enter the pool or the pool area, quickly detecting anything or anyone who could fall in.
Q. How much does it cost to install a pool alarm?
Most pool alarms can be installed by the owner. Many installations don’t require tools and come with mounting hardware that most DIYers or first timers can install themselves.
Q. Is there a law that you have to have a fence around the pool?
In some areas, laws mandate fencing and gate alarms around residential pools. Check your local laws to determine if these rules apply to your home. No matter the laws, those with pets and children will want to consider having a fence around their pool for added peace of mind.
Q. Does a pool alarm have a camera feature?
Most pool alarms don’t have cameras. Those who want added security might want to install a security camera alongside their pool alarm to have eyes and ears on the pool.
Q. How does a pool alarm work?
A pool alarm detects unwanted access to the pool, whether it’s a perimeter breach, water displacement, or water contact, and sounds an alarm to notify you of a possible hazard.
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