The Best Above-Ground Pools
Our Review Process
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Our Picks For The Top Above-Ground Pools
- 1. Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Above-Ground Pool
- 2. Hamdol Backyard PVC Children’s Above-Ground Pool
- 3. Summer Waves Quick Set Inflatable Above-Ground Pool With Filter Pump
- 4. Bestway 56597E Pro MAX Above-Ground Steel Frame Pool Set
- 5. Intex Prism Frame Filter Pump & Swimming Pool Set, 12-Feet x 30-Inch
- 6. Bestway Steel Pro Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool, 7-Feet x 32-Inch
- 7. Summer Waves Quick Set Above Ground Inflatable Swimming Pool, 12-Feet x 36-Inch
- 8. Intex Metal Frame Filter Pump Swimming Pool Set, 18-Feet x 48-Inch
- 9. Summer Waves Above Ground Filter Pump Outdoor Swimming Pool, 12-Feet x 33-Inch
- 10. Intex Ultra Frame Rectangular Filter Pump Swimming Pool Set, 16-Feet x 4-Feet
- 11. Bestway Power Steel Above Ground Pump Swimming Pool Set, 9-Feet x 4-Feet
- 12. Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Backyard Swimming Pool, 5.3-Feet x 26-Inch
- 13. Intex Easy Set Filter Pump & Swimming Pool Set, 8-Feet x 30-Inch
Looking for a swimming pool that will last for years to come? This model is designed using high-quality galvanized steel and a precision engineered locking system. It's rust-resistant and comes with a ground cloth, a 110-120V sand filter pump and a top cover.
Cover IncludedEverything you need to use this pool is included, such as the ground cloth, ladder, filter pump and cover.
Since this kid pool is quite large, you'll want to arrange for your child to have a few friends over to splay and play. The pool is constructed from a high-quality PVC that is both thick and puncture resistant. The included sprinkler that comes in the shape of an adorable element adds appeal to this pool.
Invite Your FriendsThis kid pool has three air chambers and two drains.
Summer Waves
Quick Set Inflatable Above-Ground Pool With Filter Pump
This pool, made from durable PVC, holds 608 gallons with a 2.5-foot depth and an 8-foot diameter. It offers easy, fast setup and comes with one filter cartridge with a built-in chlorinator and another filter cartridge for the pump.
Rapid InstallationYou can set up this round, inflatable, above-ground pool in minutes.
Kids and adults will enjoy swimming in this easy-to-assemble above-ground pool. It features an oval steel-frame design that is rust- and corrosion- resistant. The shell's PVC material offers structural integrity and durability.
Endless FunThis oval pool is big enough for kids and adults to enjoy.
Buying Guide
Being able to step out into your backyard and enjoy a dip in your own above-ground pool feels wonderful on a hot summer day. You can avoid the drive to the community pool while still getting all the health benefits and relaxation of swimming. With so many different types of above-ground pools to choose from, though, how do you begin to shop for one?
Before you can figure out what kind of above-ground pool you need, consider your space. Determine how big your backyard is and how much of it you can actually dedicate to an above-ground pool. In some cases, you may need to remove certain elements, such as gardens or play structures. Be sure to also consider the slope in your yard, as flat ground is ideal for above-ground pools.
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Above-ground pools typically come in a few basic shapes: round, oval and rectangular. Round pools are relatively affordable, but can be difficult to fit into small areas. Oval or rectangular pools are often smaller than round ones, but their long profiles make them easier to fit into many spaces. Longer rectangular ones may also allow you to swim laps.
What to Look For
- You have a few options when it comes to frames for your above-ground pool: metal, resin or galvanized steel. Metal frames are typically the most affordable, while resin frames are much less susceptible to rust. Galvanized steel frames can be more costly, but can also be fully sunk into the ground for more stability. You also have the option of an inflatable above-ground pool. While usually smaller than framed ones, they are ideal for families with kids.
- Inflatable options are generally made from leakproof PVC plastic. They offer a smaller, more temporary solution that is great for cooling down kids and letting them splash to their hearts’ content.
- If your backyard is severely sloped (more than 2 to 3 feet from one end to the other), your only option for an above-ground pool is one with a galvanized steel frame. Otherwise, you may have to do some landscaping to create a flat surface that your pool can stand on.
More to Explore
In order to avoid any mucky surprises in your above-ground pool, it’s important to clean and maintain it properly. Investing in a filtration system that runs 12 to 24 hours a day is a good way to remove bacteria from the pool. It is also important to check pH levels weekly, which should stay between 7.2 and 7.6. And remember to check the chlorine levels to make sure they are safe — you don’t want to have too much or too little. Chlorine levels should be between 2.0 and 4.0 parts per million.
Check out our recommendations for pool cleaning equipment and supplies:
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