How to Open a New Above Ground Pool

Inflatable above-ground swimming pool

Inflatable above-ground pools have an inflatable ring around the perimeter of the top and rigid walls usually 3 to 4 feet deep. These are an inexpensive way to keep cool during the summer months. Public swimming pools can be crowded, and in-ground pools are expensive to both install and maintain. Yet some people may still shy away from purchasing an above-ground pool because the setup seems daunting. Following some simple tips, though, can make your setup easy.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Air compressor
• Garden hose
• Large extension cord (optional)

1. When opening an above-ground pool, do not use a knife to open the box. The boxes are packed very tightly with items that can be easily pierced and damaged by a knife. Instead, use a letter opener, or simply pull the tape off the box.

2. Find a level, smooth area to set up the pool. Walking the area with bare feet can help locate sharp rocks or sticks, which you will need to remove. You do not want to leave any large debris since you will be able to feel it through the bottom of the pool when swimming.

3. Unfold the ground cover tarp over the designated area. Now you are ready for the pool itself. Unroll the swimming pool with the drain facing away from any buildings or other structures, preferably toward a slope. Make sure that the pool is centered on the tarp.

4. Pull the pool flat. Reaching underneath the sides and grabbing the bottom edges of the pool will ensure that you smooth the bottom rather than move the entire pool. You will be unable to completely smooth out the wrinkles at this point. Right now, just make sure that any major wrinkles are removed.

5. Fill the inflatable ring using an air compressor. Once inflated, begin filling the pool with water. Continue smoothing out the bottom of the pool as it fills by pulling on the bottom edges again. As the water level rises, it disguises wrinkles, so walk along the interior of the pool to feel any remaining wrinkles. When the pool contains a couple of inches of water, notice if the water runs to one side more than another. If so, the ground is uneven, and you may want to move the pool to a flatter spot. You may decide, however, that the location is fine if the slope is only slight. Be careful of too much slope since this will cut into the depth of the pool.

6. Continue filling the pool with water. Although this will take hours to complete, do not leave the pool unattended until full. The sides could become unstable and spill water, especially if the wind is strong or you own large pets. Before the water level reaches too high, assemble and attach the pump to the pool, following the instruction manual. Use a high-wattage extension cord for the electric pump if needed. Also assemble the ladder per the instruction manual and place over the side of the pool.

7. Remove the hose once the water level has raised the pool walls to maximum height. Avoid overfilling your above-ground pool. You do not want water to spill over the sides, since the pool could collapse. The walls will be smooth, and the inflatable ring should float on top of the water. Finally, blow up some inflatable toys, put on your bathing suit, lather on some sunscreen and enjoy staying cool during the hot summer months.