The 6 Steps To Buying An Above Ground Pool
Buying an above ground pool is a big deal. Not big like purchasing your first car or your first home big, but it is certainly big in what it provides for your family. For most families, a swimming pool is more than just a luxury expense. Pools are a source of fun and memories and it becomes the perfect backdrop for family parties. Most retailers are more focused on the business end rather than making sure the customer is proud of their purchase. If there is one thing that INYO Pools hopes you never experience, it is buyers remorse.
To help avoid you making a purchase that may not be in your best interest, or one that you simply regret, we want to teach you the six steps to buying an above ground pool. I bet you are saying to yourself, Six stepsReally? And we would respond, Absolutely!
If your family is ready to purchase an above ground pool, we highly recommend reviewing the 6 steps. Going over them with your family can be fun and entertaining. Lets get started.
Above Ground Pool Ladder Price
The final component common to an above ground pool kit is the ladder or entry system. You will find an A-frame ladder will be the go to choice for most retailers. These are very cost effective and work great on above ground pools. If you would like something a bit more substantial, you can generally upgrade to an entry system, which will include steps that go down on the inside of the pool and additionally handrails to assist with entry and exit from the pool. If you plan to install a wood deck around your pool, there are also deck mount options for the ladders that allow for a seamless transition from the deckto the ladder or entry system.
Above Ground Pool Pump & Filter Price
Your above ground pool pump & sand filter will be the next component of the pricing and will depend on the size of pump and filter needed. You will find that both 1 speed and 2 speed pumps can be used, with 2 speed pumps being the more expensive option. The 2 speed pump simply allows for the flexibility of a high and low setting, allowing the pump to remain on 24 hours / day on low, and generates some energy efficiency. Additionally, you will see 0.5 hp pumps up to 2 hp pumps being offered.
The sand filter size will be based on the size of your pool common sizes in the industry are 100#, 300# and 400# sand filters. Some above ground pool retailers choose cartridge filters in place of sand filters and their size is calculated as the filter surface area.
Your pool retailer will generally have a standard option of pump that is put with their pool kit, but you can always ask to upgrade if you would like a different pump for your pool. There is no upgrade to the sand filter it is strictly based on the size of your pool.
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Intex Metal Frame Round Above
The Intex Metal Framed Above Ground Pool Set will let you beat the heat for the season. This above-ground pool is 18 feet wide and 4 feet tall and is the perfect size for cooling off. The easy-to-assemble and maintain swimming pool is made of durable PVC material and is an affordable alternative to steel-walled pools. The swimming pool includes an Intex 1500 GPH filter pump, filter cartridge, ladder, pool cover, ground cloth, and instructional DVD. Intex has designed this pool for easy assembly and is ready for water in an hour. When it comes time to drain the water, the convenient drain plug works with your garden hose.
Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set With Sand Filter Pump Ladder Ground Cloth & Pool Cover
- Company: Intex
- Price: $$
- Size: 16 diameter, 48 deep
This pool is the one to look at if youre wanting to get a full size above ground pool that adults can enjoy easily along with their kids!
Whats Included: This pool comes with nearly everything you need to enjoy this pool! The metal frame, pool walls , Krystal Clear sand filter pump 1,200 gph , ladder, ground cloth, and pool cover are all part of the deal. Also included is an instructional DVD to show you the set up! The only thing you will need are the chemicals you choose to add to the water, and sand for the sand filter.
One thing this pool has that none of the above pools has is dual suction outlet fittings this improves water circulation resulting in better water hygiene and clarity.
Assembly: Intex claims this pool can be ready for water within 45 minutes! Snap together the frame, and fill with water . Heads up that manufacturers warn not to set up this pool on sand, mud, or ground that has a lot of loose earth. Also, according to reviewers, this is a pool that really requires the ground to be level so be sure you have it good and flat before assembly!
This pool is one you and your family will enjoy for years once the water finally warms up!
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What Are The Disadvantages Of Above Ground Pools
While there are plenty of excellent reasons to invest an above-ground pool, including affordability, relative ease of installation, and the ability to resell them, there are some disadvantages to above-ground pools.
Here are the main ones:
No added property value.
Above ground pools are generally not regarded as a permanent part of a property.
The reality is that an above-ground pool has the odd risk of potentially lowering property value.
That said, removing an above-ground pool is relatively straightforward.
Limited add-ons and features.
Due to the relatively temporary nature of above-ground pools, there is a limit to the toys and features you can add to it.
If you want a pool shape that isnt round or rectangular, or you want a diving board, you are going to have to look elsewhere.
Regardless, above-ground swim pools have come a long way in recent years, with plenty of fun things you can add to them to make the most of your pool.
Limited durability.
The lifespan of an above-ground pool varies from manufacturer to how well it is maintained.
Cared for properly, Ive seen above-ground pools last well over a decade.
But compared to an inground pool, which can last for much longer, above-ground pools dont last as long.
They can look cheap.
In terms of looks, lets come right out and say itabove ground pools can look a little cheap and flimsy.
The 12 Best Above Ground Pools
If youre lucky enough to have a yard and enough space to accommodate a pool, youll be faced with a battery of buying decisions.
An in-ground pool might be an attractive proposition in many ways, but not all yards are large enough for landscaped pools. Also, if youre renting your home, its not practical to install a permanent swimming pool.
This is where the best above-ground pools step in to neatly plug the gap. These make renter-friendly and highly portable options, and you can easily take these pools down over the winter, or whenever theyre not in use.
When youre shopping for above-ground pools, though, youll soon encounter a bewildering array of options in terms of shapes, sizes, depths, and designs. Also, of course, youll find pools at a variety of price points.
Here at Wild River Country, were here to make your life easier by reviewing all the best above-ground pools.
Since there are so many things to consider on the buying trail, weve provided you with a concise buying guide below outlining everything to factor in when youre pool shopping. To help you when youre browsing the pools below, youll find pools in two broad categories:
- Inflatable
- Steel-framed
Inflatable pools are ideal to give the kids some quick and easy splashing fun. The more robust steel-framed pools work better for adults, or if you want a more permanent installation without going to the lengths of installing an in-ground pool.
Contents
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What Is An Ion Pool
Pool Ionizers release microscopic mineral ions into the water that control bacteria and algae. This allows you to lower the chlorine concentration to 0.6ppm. According to the EPA and Health Canada, ionized pools or mineral pools are the only types of pool where you can safely reduce the chlorine concentration.
How Do You Clean An Above Ground Pool
There are a few tools youll need to keep your above ground pool clean. The most important is a filter pump. Connect it to the water line to help to filter out debris like dirt, bugs and leaves. Ideally, youll want to run it for several hours every day.
Its also worth using a flat skimmer net on the surface of the pool to remove floating leaves and debris, recommends Lindbeck. Brush the walls and ladder steps with a soft bristled brush to remove any algae or debris. Empty your skimmer and pump baskets.
Then, on an as-needed basis, use a pool vacuum to remove algae and other debris from the pool. Unless you have an automatic pool cleaner , you need to manually vacuum your pool to clean up remaining debris from the pool floor, says Lindbeck. Be sure youre using equipment made for vinyl liners to ensure that you are not damaging the pool while doing routine maintenance.
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Intex Easy Set Pool Set
- Company: Intex
- Price: $
- Size: 15 diameter x 48 deep
If youre looking for just a simple pool, one thats easy to set up, and one that youll be able to enjoy for a few years in a small yard this one is a great option!
This pool is made of tough 30-gauge 3-ply material , so its reinforced and durable.
This pool requires no tools to set up its called an Easy Set for good reason! It does come with an instructional DVD . Just lay the pool out on a leveled ground , inflate the ring, and begin filling up the pool. The pump can be assembled during the fill up process.
Dont expect this pool to last for several years based on reviews, if you get 3 seasons out of it, you can be happy. HOWEVER, for those 3 seasons, we think youll really enjoy this pool! You can also check out How To Patch An Inflatable Pool for some life-extending tips!
In The Swims Tuscany 54
The InTheSwim Tuscany Above Ground Pool with a 54-inch wall can be the center of outdoor fun for your whole family during the summer season. With its all-weather resin frame and posts, you dont have to worry about rust or dent. The resin pool itself is highly durable and can fit into any landscape.
You can get an oval-shaped or round Tuscany pool to set the pace for summer. The oval-shaped pool comes in the following sizes: 12 ft. by 24 ft., 15 ft. by 30 ft., and 18 ft. by 33 ft. Meanwhile, the round Tuscany pools range from 15 feet in diameter to 27 feet in diameter. The Tuscany oval pools are designed with the Yardmore Buttress System to save space in your backyard.
The pool set includes a wide-mouth skimmer box, return fitting, stainless steel hardware, and coping strips. Please note that the pool filter system and pool liner are sold separately, and are required for proper pool installation.
The pool comes with a 50-year limited warranty.
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What Is The Biggest Intex Pool For Kids
- Fast, cool relief from the summer sun
- Easy to setup, requires no air inflation
- Recommended for kids ages 3 and up
- Includes repair patch
Intex kiddie pools come in different shapes and designs. Intex kiddie pools have the most number of pool sets than all of other Intex pool categories combined.
If youre looking for the biggest Intex Kiddie Pool Set, then you should get the Deep Blue Sea Snapset Pool. This kiddie pool is perfect for kids older than 3 years old and has a water capacity of 539 gallons. The pool dimensions are 8 feet in diameter and 18 inches in depth.
The Deep Blue Sea Snapset Pool needs at least 50 square feet of ground area. The pool itself is very easy to set up and can be ready for water within 30 minutes.
Intex 12 X 30 Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool With Filter Pump
This above-ground swimming pool has Hydro Aeration Technology, laminated sidewalls, and a drain plug. The installation is a breeze with this pool, making it an excellent above-ground option that the whole family can enjoy.
Aside from that, it also comes with a drain plug, installation DVD, and metal frame, making the product even more appealing.
Assembled Product Dimensions : 144.00 x 144.00 x 30.00 Inches
Highlighted Features:
- Might not be tall enough for adults
How to assemble the Intex 12×30 metal above ground pool
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Enjoy Your Above Ground Pool Safely
Dont stop at merely installing your above ground pool. Safety is an issue with pools regardless if it is an inground pool or an above ground pool. You will enjoy the same swim experience with your above ground pool as with any inground pool, but this also comes with the same safety concerns.
Here are some essential safety products to consider:
- Fencing There are unique fences available explicitly designed for above ground pools. Although much safer than inground pools, children can still climb up and tip over into the pool even if there is no ladder. There are many inexpensive options available if you have children in the house you want to protect.
- Ladders To use your pool, a ladder is essential. You can choose from one of the top above ground pool ladders weve collected for the buying guide weve put together. You must ensure that the ladder is securely attached to the pool and features handrails for added stability.
- Pool Alarm This is especially important if you have children or pets, although some counties actually require an alarm by law. These alarms will notify you if something large enough to make a splash has irritated the water.
How Deep Are Above Ground Pools
Some folks find it interesting that not all above ground pools are the same depth. But even more surprising is that an above ground pool can even have a deep end.
There are few key points to be aware of as what you order will determine what options you have in this area: from wall height to the liner, it all matters in order to get the depth youre looking for.
Keep reading for the details!
IMPORTANT: If youre in the market for a new pool youll want to keep the following in mind: Due to the rise in demand caused by the 2020 pandemic, above ground pools in general are experiencing delays in manufacturing and shipping. Semi-Inground and saltwater friendly resin pools in particular may have even longer wait times.. Its important to shop early if you are in a hurry to start splashing about. While pools traditionally purchased in the Spring or even late Summer can usually have many weeks of use that same year, the entire industry is currently delayed by several weeks and in some cases several months. The best plan you can have is to purchase your pool 3-6 months before you want to start building. More on purchasing a pool during or even post-pandemic can be found here.
WALL HEIGHT
We offer above ground pools in three different wall heights, 48, 52, and 54. The idea here is that the taller your pool wall, the deeper your water can end up being. This does not mean however , that if you purchase a 52 wall that youll have 52 of water to splash in. Heres why:
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Whats The Deepest Above Ground Pool Option
There are some variations of partially in-ground pools or the option of above-ground pools with a deep end liner. However, when it comes to a standard above ground pool options, the deepest you can find is 54 inches or six feet of wall height.
The water line of most pools sits about 6 inches beneath the top of the wall when you account for some water loss from splashing. If you need a pool with water deeper than just under six feet, then you need either a deep-end liner or an in-ground pool.
What To Consider When Looking For The Best Above Ground Pool
1. When is the best time to get an above ground pool?
Prices for pools can vary throughout the year. The cheapest deals appear from October and onwards through the winter season with prices getting higher again as late spring and summer draw near again. If you have a place to store the unopened boxes, you might want to take advantage of a good deal, however you should keep in mind that if the pool has a problem you will usually not be able to send it back after 30 60 days.
2. What type of pool should you get?
There are various types of above ground pools. The most common are the easy set pools and metal frame pools. Easy set pools have soft vinyl or PVC walls and an inflatable ring that lifts up the pool walls as you fill it with water. Metal frame pools are sturdier, as they have steel bars supporting the vinyl or PVC pool liner and can hold up more water in different pool shapes.
3. What shape of pool do you want?
Above ground pools usually come in circle, oval, rectangle, and occasionally square shapes. Depending on what you plan to do with the pool, the shape can make a big difference. Those who want to exercise should get rectangle pools for lap swimming, while those looking to swim recreationally can deal with any shape and should pay more attention to how much space they have to set up the pool.
4. Which brand should you buy?
5. How big of a pool do you need?
6. How easy is it to set up the pool?
7. Is the pool safe?
8. What is the pool made of?
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