1. Yard Size & Shape

Before choosing a pool, measure your available backyard space carefully. Above ground pools are available in three primary shapes: round, oval, and rectangular. Round pools are the most popular and work best in wide, open areas, while oval and rectangular pools are better suited for narrower yards and provide a longer swim lane.

Remember that you need more room than just the size of the pool itself. Leave space around the perimeter for your ladder, pump, filter, and future accessories. The installation area must also be perfectly level: within 1 inch across the entire site. High spots should be dug down rather than filling low spots, since added soil can settle over time and place uneven pressure on the pool wall.

Grass must be removed before installation, as pools should never sit directly on turf. Avoid placing your pool beneath overhanging trees where leaves, pollen, and bird droppings will constantly fall into the water. It's also important to avoid underground gas or water lines and to check your municipality's setback requirements before installation.

If you're considering an oval pool, remember that additional side clearance is required for the support legs, and oval pools cannot be installed on concrete slabs.

2. Pool Type

Not all above ground pools are built the same. Soft-sided inflatable pools, like the Bestway Octopool, are affordable, portable, and quick to set up. Because they rely on the liner itself for structure, they're ideal for young families or temporary Summer use. However, they are more susceptible to punctures and require compatible cleaning equipment and accessories. In Canada's climate, they should always be drained, deflated, and stored indoors before Winter.

Hard-sided above ground pools use a rigid steel or aluminum wall combined with resin or steel structural components and a separate vinyl liner. Models like Eternia LX, Galaxy, Element, Narwhal, and Evolution are designed for permanent seasonal installation and can remain standing year after year. These pools support full pump and filtration systems and offer significantly greater durability.

If you're planning to install a saltwater chlorination system, pay close attention to construction materials. Aluminum walls and full resin components are saltwater compatible, while steel components can corrode over time. Premium models like the Eternia LX, Element, and Galaxy are designed for saltwater systems, whereas steel-based models like the Evolution are better suited for traditional chlorine sanitation.

3. Maintenance

Your pump and filter are the heart of your pool system. The pump circulates water while the filter removes debris and contaminants. Depending on your pool size and pump flow rate, you'll typically need to run your filtration system for several hours each day. Sand filters require periodic backwashing, while cartridge filters need regular cleaning or replacement.

Water chemistry should be checked every week. Regular testing and balancing of chlorine, pH, and alkalinity will keep your water clean, comfortable, and safe. New pools should also follow a proper chemical startup process before anyone enters the water. Always add chemicals individually and never mix them together before adding them to your pool.

At the end of each swimming season, your pool should be properly winterized. Hard-sided pools require draining and storing pumps, filters, and heaters, adding winter chemicals, and installing a winter cover. Soft-sided inflatable pools should be completely drained, cleaned, deflated, and stored indoors. Proper winterization protects your equipment from freeze damage and helps ensure your pool is ready for next season.