Above ground pools are often viewed as the poor cousin to in ground pools, largely due to some common issues that crop up in many above ground pools. If you’re considering an above ground pool, though, the good news is that many of these issues can be avoided altogether or easily fixed, once you’re aware of them.
Overpowered pool pumps: Pool filters are much more expensive than the pumps that power them, so it’s really common for above ground pools to be sold with the cheapest filter available but with a powerful pump. The problem with this is that the pump overpowers the filter, blasting dirt through it that should be filtered out.
When you’re buying an above ground pool, don’t be swayed by a pump with a pump rated for a huge amount of horsepower. A 1/2 horsepower pool pump (generally the smallest practical model sold) is not only all you’ll need, but even that is often too much for small above ground pools.
Cheap materials: You get what you pay for. If you buy a bargain basement above ground pool that costs $1,000, it’s going to be cheaply made and have lots of issues and problems. That’s why it’s so cheap. Don’t assume, though, that just because you bought an expensive pool that you will never have any issues, or that it cannot contain cheap equipment prone to problems.
Wrong sand in the filter: You should always have special filter sand in your pool filter. That’s what it’s made for and that’s what you should use, for proper filtration. Specifically ask when buying your pool if your filter has filter sand in it, and not cheaper sandblast sand that some shady dealers will use instead, just to save them a few bucks.
Cheap cleaning equipment: Since above ground pools are generally the low-cost option, some dealers try to skimp everywhere they can to boost their profit margins, with many include cheap cleaning equipment sold with above ground pools that only lasts a season or two before breaking.
Make sure you’re getting quality cleaning equipment when buying your pool, and don’t be afraid to spend a little more to get solid equipment that will not only last but will properly clean your pool.
