How to Set Up Above-Ground Pools Easily
An above-ground pool is the best alternative to a traditional swimming pool. They are popular because they are inexpensive compared to a regular swimming pool and are easy to maintain. They are available in a variety of sizes and styles, so finding one to fit your backyard or taste will not be hard. Setting up an above-ground pool is not difficult, and in less than a day you can have yours up and running. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Air compressor
- Hose
- Extension cord
- Ground cover tarp
- Plastic lawn stakes
- Pool pump and filter
- PH and chlorine testers
- Pool chemicals
Instructions
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1
Place your pool in a flat, level and safe location. Mark off an area in your backyard that is not close to any trees or underground plumbing and is firm and flat. Make sure the area is at least 2 feet wider on all sides than the dimensions of your pool.
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2
Remove sharp objects from the ground. Check the location thoroughly for stones, twigs, sticks and anything sharp that may puncture the lining of the pool.
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3
Lay the ground cover tarp over the pool site. Stretch the tarp as tight as possible and anchor it to the ground with plastic lawn stakes.
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4
Spread the swimming pool out on the tarp. Center it on the tarp and face the drain away from your house. Pull the pool tightly to remove as many wrinkles as possible.
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5
Inflate the ring with the air compressor. If your pool is free-standing, you can begin adding water as soon it is fully inflated. If your pool has a metal frame, set it up at this point. Insert the pieces of the metal frame into the open pockets of the pool until the pool is standing by itself. Begin filling the pool with water.
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6
Install the pool pump and filter. The holes for the pump, filter and hoses are on the side of the pool. Before the pool is filled with water, assemble the filter and pump and attach them to the pool. Ensure that the pump is resting firmly on the ground and that the hoses going into the pool are secure. Test the pump and filter to ensure they are operational.
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7
Add pool chemicals. Test the water with a chlorine kit and a pH tester to determine the correct amounts of chemicals to add. Stock up on chlorine, which is the most commonly used pool chemical.
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8
Attach the ladder. Rest the bottom of the ladder on an even, stable surface and screw the top into the pool.
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Tips & Warnings
Test the water at least twice a week to ensure that it is safe for swimming.
Chlorine is a very caustic chemical. Always handle it with gloves and protect your eyes, if possible.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit boy in a swimming pool image by Wimbledon from Fotolia.com