Above ground pools require proper installation on level ground, regular liner maintenance (lasting 6-10 years), and balanced water chemistry with chlorine levels based on CYA. This comprehensive guide covers everything from DIY installation to winterization and troubleshooting common issues.
Whether you need to winterize your pool depends on your climate zone. Areas with freezing temperatures require full winterization, while warmer regions need only reduced maintenance and chemical adjustments.
To backwash a pool filter, turn off the pump, set the multiport valve to BACKWASH, turn the pump back on for 2-3 minutes until water runs clear, then switch to RINSE for 30 seconds before returning to FILTER mode.
Yes, you should shock your pool before closing it for winter, but timing is crucial. Shock 24-48 hours before adding winterizing chemicals to ensure proper sanitization without chemical conflicts.
Yes, you absolutely need proper alkalinity in your pool water. Alkalinity acts as a pH buffer, preventing rapid pH swings and maintaining water balance for swimmer comfort and equipment protection.
Yes, you absolutely need to clean your pool before closing it for winter. Proper cleaning prevents algae growth, equipment damage, and costly spring reopening issues.
Yes, saltwater pools absolutely need cyanuric acid (stabilizer) to protect the chlorine generated by your salt cell from being destroyed by UV rays. Target levels should be 70-80ppm for optimal protection.
Pool pillows are essential for winter pool closing in freeze-prone areas. They absorb ice expansion pressure, preventing damage to pool walls and equipment.
Most pool chemicals take 2-8 hours to fully circulate and settle, depending on the type of chemical and your pump runtime. Always wait before retesting water levels.
You can close a green pool, but it's not recommended as algae will worsen over winter. Either treat the algae with SLAM method before closing, or use extra winterizing chemicals and accept potential spring cleanup issues.
Yes, Walmart carries pool vacuums both in-store and online, including manual, automatic, and robotic models. Selection varies by season and location, with the best inventory available from spring through summer.
Above ground pool liners typically last 15-20 years, but harsh winter conditions can reduce this lifespan by 2-3 years if not properly winterized. Proper water level maintenance, chemical balance, and cover protection are essential for winter liner preservation.
Yes, Walmart does carry pool filter sand both in-store and online, typically available from spring through summer. They stock brands like HTH and Quikrete, with 50-pound bags ranging from $8-15.
You can swim after shocking once free chlorine drops to 4 ppm or below, typically 8-24 hours depending on shock type and dosage. Test water before entering and ensure pH is balanced.
You need a pool heater if you want to swim comfortably outside of summer months, live in a climate with cool nights, or have family members who prefer warmer water temperatures above 78-82°F.
