Intex Pools - Intex pools are the developer and supplier to the USA of both the Easy Set (blow up) and the framed "above ground" pools. Gives background to company, products and list FAQ's about the Intex pools.

Pool Supplies - Pool supplies includes information about maintaining your pool and the equipment needed such as filters, heaters, liners and covers for above ground or inground pools. Not forgetting Health & Safety issues as well as pool supplies for relaxation and fun.

Inground Pools - Describes the benefits of inground pools, the different types available, what to consider when buying a pool and some general information about the construction of inground pools.


Main Problems associated with "above ground" pools

For many people and many situations, above ground pools are the best choice and not just because they are usually cheaper. However, there can be certain common problems associated with the installation and maintenance of "above ground" pools which luckily can be avoided.

The Problems

The problems for above ground pools fall into several categories:
Inadequate or mismatched pump and filter equipment (extremely common);
Improper filter media -- usually sand (very common - fairly easy to fix);
Poor installation;
'Mickey-mouse' grade accessories (less serious, but extremely common);
Proprietary equipment that is impractical or impossible to repair;
Poor quality walls or liner (common on cheaper).

Let me start with the last problem, first. Poor quality above ground pools
This is very subjective, but in general, if you avoid the really cheap pools then you are more likely to avoid the problems. Cheap pools are likely to have all or most of the above problems.

Mismatched pumps and filters

The most common problem, by far, is mismatched and mis-sized pumps and filters. Usually the filter is too small and the pump too big. There's a reason for this: bigger filters cost more and don't sound impressive in a sales pitch. Bigger pumps do not cost much more - there is often little difference between a 3/4HP and a 2 HP "above ground" pump. The result is a mismatched combo that blows dirt right on through the filter and back into the above ground pools. Oversized pumps are usually to blame for the reported problems with sand filters.

The only solution is to replace your existing pump and filter with a properly sized and matched set. In theory, it would sometimes be possible to make adjustments that work things out, but in practice there are many reasons why this is almost never practical, starting with the fact that less than 10% of builders and dealers understand hydraulics well enough to make the proper corrections on their own.

There are many combinations that will work, but it's really tricky. Please, please be careful and talk to as many people as possible about your above ground pools. It's not simply a case of a larger pump and filter either because there are issues with maindrains, skimmers, return inlets not to mention the cost of electricity.

Wrong Sand

Another extremely common problem results from the use of cheaper sandblast sand, instead of filter sand. Dealers do it because they can make more selling the cheap stuff. But, it doesn't filter as well. Using the correct sand can make a BIG difference.

Poor quality accessories

Above ground pools are commonly sold with 'disposable' quality cleaning tools. The solution is simple. Buy "in ground" pool tools.

Also, some of the above ground automatic pool cleaners are very finicky. One popular model only works properly if the pool floor is very smooth and level. Since most above ground pools are installed in the fastest possible way, under-liner grading is often at a minimum, leaving a rough and irregular surface. The manufacturer of above ground pools knows this, but continues to market this cleaner to all "above ground" pool owners, leaving the "level and smooth pool bottom" warnings buried in the owner's manual. The solution? Purchase above ground pools cleaners with a "you can bring it back within 10 days, if it won't work on your pool" guarantee.

Poor Installation

Finally, try to be present at installation and know what should be happening. Ask the dealer in advance how it should be installed and keep an eye on it. If you've negotiated a really low price, the dealer may try to save elsewhere - this may include the time taken to install. Good luck and have fun with your above ground pools.


The most relevant links we could find, placed here free

Easy Pools UK - for swimming pools, spas, saunas, sunbeds and steamrooms. Construction, supply and pool maintenance.www.easypools.co.uk

Poolboy - Poolboy is an excellent UK based site for Above ground swimming pools, above ground pools, above ground, splasher pools, metal framed pools. www.poolboy.co.uk