How to Set Up a Above Ground Pool
What better way is there to enjoy the lazy days of summer than by lounging in your own above ground swimming pool? Inexpensive and easy to maintain, an above ground pool is a great addition to your backyard that you can use year after year. The set up is simple if you enlist the aid of a few friends. Within a few hours of removing your pool from its packaging, you can be well on your way to a relaxing and refreshing dip all in the privacy of your own backyard. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Lawn rake
- Ground cover tarp
- Plastic or wooden lawn stakes
- Water hose
- Pool pump
- Pool pump filter
- Chlorine and pH test kit
- Appropriate chemicals
Instructions
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Set Up an Above Ground Swimming Pool
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1
Determine where you’d like to place your pool. Opt for an area of your backyard that is relatively flat and at least ten feet from any trees that may shed their leaves into your pool.
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2
Remove any rocks, twigs, branches, or other sharp objects from your proposed pool site. Sharp objects can cause punctures and tears in the bottom of your pool when the pool is filled due to the immense weight of the water.
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3
Use a lawn rake to level out the ground for your above ground pool. Be sure to smooth out any large mounds of soil so that the bottom of your pool will rest evenly on the ground. Many above ground pool manufacturers no longer recommend applying a layer of sand beneath your pool because of the sand's tendency to shift. However, if you feel the need to place another layer of soil over the ground before installing your swimming pool, feel free to do so.
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4
Place a ground cover tarp over the pool site and anchor it to the ground using plastic or wooden stakes to prevent the cover from moving. Be sure the cover is free of wrinkles and that it lies flat on the ground.
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5
Assemble your pool following the instructions included in the pool packaging and fill it with water. If you have purchased an easy-set pool, all you have to do is place the pool down on the ground cover, fill the inflatable ring with air, and begin filling the pool with water. If you have purchased a metal frame above ground pool, the process will take a bit more time and will require an extra pair of hands.To set up a metal frame pool, you’ll need to ask a friend to hold up the walls while you insert the metal frame pieces through the pockets of the pool fabric and work your way around the pool until it is free standing. You’ll then be able to fill the pool with water.
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6
Install the pool pump and filter according to the instructions included with the pump when the pool is full. The pump should rest firmly on the ground beside the pool, preferably on the ground cover. Securely attach the hoses and be sure to prime the pump with water before turning it on.
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7
Add the appropriate chemicals to the water before allowing anyone to swim. Use a pH balance and chlorine test kit to determine what chemicals need to be added.
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Tips & Warnings
Before placing the cover down, firmly pack any holes in the ground with top soil.
Check the chlorine level and pH balance of your pool at least every other day to keep the water clean and safe for swimming.
Change the pump filter as soon as it becomes soiled and run the pump for at least four hours every day.
See the resource below to learn how to keep your children safe around swimming pools.
Remove the ladder from your pool when you're not using it to prevent children from climbing in when you're not there to supervise them.
