Best Pool Alarms and Pool Door Alarms 2023 Reviews with Buying Guide

Pool alarms offer an additional level of protection for pool owners. There are multiple different types of devices that all fall under the term “pool alarm”. Scroll down to read our take on the best pool alarms available for online purchase!

Best Pool Alarms and Floating Pool Alarms 2020

In this first category, we review true POOL alarms that go in the pool itself: surface and subsurface alarms. Since some subsurface models support surface wave detection as well, it makes sense to bunch these two alarm types together.

Lifebuoy Pool Alarm System – Pool Motion Sensor

Package includes: the floating device, string to tie the device, instruction manual

Lifebuoy is designed to detect when a person or pet has fallen into the pool, and it emits a loud noise from poolside and from the home unit, which is a part of it. You can easily control the alarm with the App or the home unit button.

This alarm is 100% mobile, so you can take it with you on vacations or at a friend’s house. It’s easy to install, and it doesn’t activate if it’s not floating in the water. According to the manufacturer, this is the only pool alarm that can work if the pool cover is on.

This alarm is easy to use and install, and it has useful features like deactivating when not in the water and auto-activating after there was no more activity in the pool. That means you don’t have to worry about turning it back on every time you finish your fun time in the pool.

EDITOR’S PICK PoolGuard PGRM-2 In-Ground Pool Alarm

The PoolGuard PGRM-2 is an in-ground surface pool alarm with an in-house receiver and a 12v battery supply. It’s tamper-proof, so once installed only an adult (using the included magnetic key) can remove it from the pool and put it into sleep mode.

Unlike most competitors who only provide a 1-year warranty, this one comes with a 3-year warranty. It also utilizes proprietary sensing technology that reduces the likelihood of false alarms. The unit’s unique shape facilitates quick and easy installation and removal, especially when compared to other models that float around the pool and can be a hassle to retrieve.

A number of reviews suggest that the PGRM-2 is incredibly accurate, with several people reporting no false alarms even after months of use and repeated exposure to stormy weather. Users note that the alarm goes off when a ripple comes within a certain distance of the sensor, so something falling into the water across the pool might trigger the alarm in around 10 seconds, while something entering the water closer to the sensor would trigger the sound within 3-5 seconds.

The only other concern seems to be that the instructions for disarming and removing the alarm are somewhat vague. FYI: to disarm it, you hold your key to a button on the back and it gives you about 5 seconds to set the unit aside.

Pool Patrol PA-30 Pool Alarm

Features

• Battery Powered: Uses one 9V battery. (not included.)
• Remote Receiver: Outlet remote for in-home monitoring.
• Adjustable: Can be set to higher or lower sensitivity.
• Accessories: String tether to anchor where desired.

This water motion detector is an anchored floating unit that sets off an alarm from both the buoy and its in-house remote when movement is detected. It is used primarily to inform that someone or something has fallen into a pool that is not currently in use.

This unit is powered by one replaceable 9-volt battery which can be accessed through a gasket-sealed housing on the bottom. Removing the batteries during the off-season is recommended to ensure proper functioning when brought back into use the following year.

The remote unit can be plugged into any wall socket and where it is powered on via a switch, connects to the floater sounding an alarm simultaneously if triggered. An indicator light informs when the device is on, and the manufacturer states that it can be placed up to approximately 200 ft away from the buoy and still function normally.

The device comes with a 10-ft tether string so it can be anchored to a desired location. It also includes several sensitivity settings so the consumer can adjust it to compensate for rain or water features that might trigger the alarm in pools or hot tubs.

Bottom Line

This water motion detector seems like a good bargain for those who are looking for this kind of floating alarm, but don’t feel like they need so many bells and whistles as can be available on competing devices.

Best Pool Electric Shock Alarms 2020

These are different from alarms that are meant to go off when movement is detected in or near a pool, these devices are used for detecting any electrical current present in a body of water so as to avoid potential shock when someone intends to go for a swim.

These battery powered units simply float silently until they detect an electrical current, then set off a series of audible and visual alarms to inform owners that the body of water is currently unsafe for swimming.

Shock Alert Floating Electric Current Detector

Features

• Battery-powered: Uses three AA batteries. (Included.)
• Accessories: 10ft string to anchor the float in the desired location.

This electric current detector is an anchored floating unit meant to test various different bodies of fresh water for swimming safety. To activate, press the power button and drop in the body of water you wish to test. If electrical current is detected, an audible beeping alarm will go off informing that the water is unsafe for use.

This unit is powered by three replaceable AA batteries which can be accessed through a gasket sealed housing on the bottom. Removing the batteries during the off-season is recommended to ensure proper functioning when brought back into use.

While the device comes with a 10ft string to anchor it to a desired location, professional electricians state that depending on water quality these units can sometimes only detect electrical current up to 3ft away. Testing several locations in the same body of water is recommended to guarantee safe usage.

Bottom Line

This mid-range current detector has mixed reviews with many customers stating it’s unreliable and not properly assembled for long-term submersion in water.

ShockAlarm Floating Electric Current Detector

Features

• Battery Powered: Uses two CR2 batteries. (Included but sealed in the device.)
• Advertised Lifespan: Around two years.
• Magnetic Tab: Replacing the tab in the device disables it to save battery life.
• Accessories: Short string to anchor the float in the desired location.

This electric current detector is the most affordable of the currently available options on the market. It is light-weight, and has an easy-to-use design. Simply remove the red magnetic tab and drop in the body of water you wish to test. If electrical current is detected, a red LED on top of the unit will being to flash and a shrill audible alarm will sound informing that the water is unsafe for use. When finished, the red tab can be replaced in the device to save battery life.

Unfortunately the unit is sealed, so replacing the batteries is not possible. When the device runs out of power the only option is to buy another. Apart from creating waste, this seems like a poor design choice when competing units offer the ability to replace the batteries and therefore extend the useful life of the product.

The manufacturer recommends the device for any body of fresh-water, not just pools. Many customers have bought it for their marinas to ensure no electricity is leaking from boats or docks potentially endangering any people or animals that wish to go for a swim.

Testing the product is simple: Remove the red battery tab, place the device near an active power outlet, and it should set off the alarm confirming function.

Bottom Line

More affordable than its competitors, but its lack of ability to charge or replace the power source makes it unappealing to those desiring a product with a longer lifespan.

Best Pool Door, Gate, and Window Alarms 2020

To ensure the utmost safety it’s a good idea to equip the area with alarms on any doors, gates, or windows that lead directly to the pool.

With that said, here are the best alarms for securing the perimeter of your pool area:

EDITOR’S PICK PoolGuard GAPT-2 Outdoor Pool Gate Alarm

The PoolGuard GAPT-2 is designed to be used on outdoor pool gates, emitting a loud horn alarm within 7 seconds of the gate being opened. If an adult passes through and can close the gate and press the “Pass Thru” button before then, the alarm will not sound. The package comes with 6 feet of UL-approved wire, a sensor switch, and a magnet used to secure the sensor to the gate.

The bypass and delay functions included with this gate alarm are what make it preferable over most of its competitors. It’s by far the easiest for adults to use without triggering the alarm.

If you decide you like this design of a gate alarm, it may be worth to check out other door/gate models by PoolGuard. Apart from various accessories, there are models with slightly different applications.

Reviews for this product are highly positive, with about 86% of reviewers rating it at 4 or 5 stars. There are only a couple of reviewers who rated it lowly because they were annoyed by having to press the bypass button every time, but that’s a feature that should be expected on any good gate alarm.

SmartPool YG18 YardGard Programmable Gate/Door/Window Alarm

The YG18 Programmable Gate/Door/Window Alarm from SmartPool is a well-rounded pool security and safety system that includes everything needed to mount an alarm on a single door, gate, or window.  The exterior is water resistant and the alarm is known for being one of the loudest on the market.

One feature that you’ll find in the YG18 that you won’t see in many other competitors is a programmable keypad that can be used to set an optional 4-digit PIN code for deactivating the alarm. Of course, this feature helps the unit double as a security device, ensuring that unauthorized adults don’t take advantage of the device’s adult pass-through feature.

There is an automatic chirp sound when the batteries are low.

Reviews are mostly positive with about 63% of reviewers rating it at 5-stars. However, there are a few reviewers complaining about the batteries getting hot, occasional malfunctions, and the difficulty of adjusting delay settings.

Techko S189A Ultra Slim Pool Safety and Entry Alarm

The Techko S189A Ultra Slim Pool Safety and Entry Alarm is a multipurpose exit alarm that can be mounted on a gate or door. It has an an adult bypass button that allows you to prevent the alarm from going off, but if you don’t press that button before exiting it will sound a 110 dB alarm continuously until the button is pressed.

This model meets current UL standards and is ETL-listed. Unlike many models that allow for a delay of 7 or more seconds before sounding the alarm, the Techko S187 triggers immediately as soon as the magnetic link between the latch and the sensor is broken.

This is a hugely popular crowd favorite with plenty of reviews and a predominantly positive response. About 80% of reviewers rated it at 4 or 5 stars. Only 15% gave it a 1-star rating. The sparsely distributed complaints are mostly related to the odd malfunction or defective unit, while the rest of the mostly positive reviews center around the loudness of the alarm, ease of installation, and how great it is to get a pair of sensors and a pair of bypass buttons at one relatively low price.

Wsdcam Wireless Remote Magnetic Door Alarm Pack

Features:

• Battery Powered Main Unit: Two replaceable AAA batteries.
• Battery Powered Remote: single 12V/27A battery (All included.)
• Pack: Includes 2 stand-alone units, each with their own remote.
• Loudness: 105 decibel alarm.
• Wireless Remote Range: Up to 49 ft.

This pack of two magnetic door security alarms includes two wireless remotes. The system is simple to install and use. Each unit comes with a double-sided adhesive to mount on a door and its connected frame, but also includes holes for screws or nails. Simply attach the unit to the frame and the magnetic adapter to the door adjacent to it, and when the system is enabled and the door is opened, the alarm will go off.

A very loud 105 decibel shrilling alert will sound anytime the system is active and the magnetic adapter is separated from the main unit. The alarm can be enabled or disabled using the included remote. Each unit is powered by two AA batteries which can be replaced when depleted. The remote uses a less-standard 12V/27A battery which can also be replaced as needed.

The remote has a range of up to 49 ft and includes several settings; two buttons arm and disarm the device while a third “panic mode” button turns the alarm on directly. The fourth button allows the user to pair a single remote with up to fifty units. Alternatively, each separate unit can be paired with up to eight remotes.

This device does not seem to be intended for outdoor use as it is not water-tight or weather-proofed. While the manufacturer claims it can be used for pools, it is not compliant with commercial pool safety standards, and the adhesive meant to attach it to door frames would probably be ill suited for pool gates and outdoor exposure. One way of use would be to block access to your backyard (your pool area) by attaching it onto an external door leading to it.

Bottom Line

A less expensive door security alarm that includes a wireless remote that pairs with multiple units and works well for indoor application.

BUDGET OPTION Techko S187D Safe Pool Alarm

Features

• Size: 4.8” (L) x 1.6” (W) x 1.8” (H) inches
• Weight: 6.6 oz
• Power rating: 9-volt battery
• Warranty: 3-year limited warranty

The Techko S187D Safe Pool Alarm is an effective method of alerting you if children or pets get into the pool area. This pool gate alarm is attached to the door or gate on a fence and sets off a 110-dB high output alarm when the magnetic sensors are separated.

This alarm features two clever sensors for use on a secondary door or gate, like a screen door. A valuable feature which you might like is it’s ETL listed and approved under UL 2017. Hence it’s safe for use.

Since it is weather resistant – sun or rain, this pool alarm is safe to use in both indoor and outdoor pools.

Bottomline

Cheapest and best-selling option

 

Toeeson Magnetic Door Security Alarm Pack

Features

• Battery Powered: Uses three replaceable LR44 batteries. (Included.)
• Pack: Includes 4 stand-alone units.
• Loudness: 120 decibel alarm.
• Low Battery Indicator: Red LED indicates when batteries need replacing.

This pack of four magnetic door security alarms is very affordable. The system is simple to install and use. Each unit comes with a double-sided adhesive to mount on a door and its connected frame. Simply attach the unit to the frame and the magnetic adapter to the door adjacent to it, and when the system is enabled and the door is opened, the alarm will go off.

A very loud 120 decibel shrilling alert will sound anytime the system is active and the magnetic adapter is separated from the main unit. Each unit is powered by three LR44 (button) batteries which can be replaced when depleted.

It does not however seem to be intended for outdoor use as it is not water-tight or weather-proofed. While the manufacturer claims it can be used for pools, it is not compliant with commercial pool safety standards, and the adhesive meant to attach it to door frames would probably be ill suited for pool gates and outdoor exposure. One way of use would be to block access to your backyard (your pool area) by attaching it onto an external door leading to it.

Bottom Line

A cheap door security system that works well with indoor application, but is not intended for outdoor use.

Best Wristband Alarms 2020

Wristband alarms are excellent accessories to throw into your pool safety arsenal. If all else fails, your child’s wristband will sound an alarm on an in-home receiver if it is ever submerged for more than a couple seconds.

On top of that, because these are independent of your own yard and pool, you can also use them when near lakes, ponds, reservoirs or rivers.

New Safety Turtle 2.0 Child Immersion Pool/Water Alarm Kit

The Safety Turtle 2.0 Child Immersion Alarm Kit is designed to serve as a fail-proof way of knowing when your child enters any body of water. It comes with one wristband and an in-house receiver that can be heard clearly both indoors and outside.

This particular wristband kit is marked by its green turtle design that stays true to the Safety Turtle image. The plug-and-go functionality also makes it easy to use out-of-the-box.

Reviews are mostly positive, with about 51% of reviewers rating it at 4 or 5 stars. There have been a few complaints about the durability of the wristband itself. Some noted that the alarm wasn’t as loud as some of the surface and subsurface alarm options out there.

Pool Alarm Buying Guide

Types of Pool Alarms and How They Work

Of all the recommended pool safety measures, alarms are perhaps the most reliable and useful. Fences can be left open inadvertently and children can also climb over or circumvent them, and a sign won’t always deter a little one who can’t yet read. On the other hand, a properly installed alarm is nearly guaranteed to notify you whenever someone approaches or enters your pool.

It’s important to become familiar with the various types of devices that can be used to secure a pool area in order to develop a well-balanced approach to pool safety. There are 4 main types of pool alarms to consider:

Although using all of the above alarm types might give you an occasional false alarm, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Plus, there are options in each category ranging in cost from $20 to $200+, so starting with a basic level of pool safety is doable even on a tight budget.

Unintentional Drowning is a Public Health Concern

Every year more than 500 children drown in the U.S. and another 2500 incur serious injuries due to near-drowning incidents. According to a fact sheet on unintentional drowning from the CDC, an average of 2 children under the age of 14 drown per day.

Statistics from the World Health Organization state that there are more than 370,000 deaths caused by unintentional drowning each year worldwide, with the highest risk groups being children aged 1-4 and the second-highest risk group being children 5-9. Pet owners face the same concern, with an estimated 5,000 pets drowning in residential swimming pools each year.

In fact, drowning is the 2^nd leading cause of death related to unintentional injury in the U.S, and it ranks as one of the top 5 causes of death for people under age 14 in nearly 50 countries. Sadly, many of these tragedies could’ve easily been prevented if the parent or caretaker of the child/pet had taken a few simple precautions.

“Pool Safely”

To reduce the frequency of accidental drowning, the government has even launched a public education campaign called Pool Safely – an initiative that teaches guardians how to prevent unintentional drowning. As you can see for yourself in the video below, one of their 7 seven safety tips is to “install proper barriers, covers, and alarms on and around the pool.” Interestingly, the alarm used in the video is the PGRM-2 by PoolGuard is featured in this article.

According to an evaluation of swimming pool alarms conducted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), children and pets should always be supervised, and pool owners should utilize fencing, covers, and other components to ensure complete safety at all times.

Be sure to also check out our article on Pool Covers explaining which covers qualify as Safety Pool Covers.

Pool Safety Measures Required By Law in Many States

In response to the above statistics, many states have passed legislation requiring that certain safety measures be taken by residential pool owners. For example, in California the Swimming Pool Safety Act requires that the pool be enclosed and that exit alarms be placed on all doors and windows that provide direct access to the pool.

Florida has similar statues in place with their Residential Pool Safety Act, as do many other states. Although the laws vary by state, generally the requirements involve surrounding the pool with an enclosure at least 4 feet high and using alarms to secure the area.

Realizing the Importance of Choosing the Right Pool Safety Equipment

In the end, we can all admit that our children (kiddie pools) and furry friends (dog pools) are too precious to put at risk over a rushed or uninformed buying decision, so it makes sense to do your research before choosing pool alarms and safety equipment. After all, this is a crucial investment that provides both security and peace of mind in exchange for a one-time expense, giving you the freedom to relax knowing that your kids and pets are always safe from entering the pool unnoticed.