I would love to have a pool to splash around in with my kids, but getting an inground one isn't a possibility for us right now. We have the space for a good sized above ground pool, but I have no idea what sort of pool I need to buy. Do the $350 cheapies (I think they're called portables) hold up for a few seasons? How is the maintenance? Should I spend the money to buy a more permanent one? What costs in addition to the pool should I expect?
Oh - in case it helps, there aren't public pools nearby where I could take my kids instead. And we're on well water, so I don't have to worry about the municipal water cost.
Any and all advice is appreciated!!
Thanks all! 8kidsdad - great idea to get a pool that will only last until we can afford an inground. Actually, the reason I don't want to do an inground is that we'll be moving in about three years. So I really want a pool that will last for at least three years. It sounds like getting a portable one might be a decent option. Thanks everyone!
honestly the good pools (500 or so ones) are GREAT they last 5-10 years IF maintained well, the cheap pools are JUST that CHEAP i would always vote for an actual above ground one,
We purchased a Doughboy about 7 years ago. Best choice ever. The cheaper ones don't last long. Doughboys have been around for years and really do hold up well if properly maintained. In addition to water is chemical costs. We went with Baquicil and I love it. Price for the chemical, sand for filter and general care run about $250 per summer. But we use ours everyday. Also running the pump/filter will increase your electric bill. However I've found that running it the p.m is more cost effective.
Check your local dealers out also check on line manufactures. You won't ever regret it.
pools need daily cleaning....skimmer nets....pump/filters...chlorine...ph testing...go to a pool store and look around at the chemicals and things you will need to keep your pool "healthy".
I've not had an above ground pool for YEARS!!! We had one in a house in Upland and then took it down and installed an inground pool...The one we had had the high-grade plastic liner, aluminum sides, ladder, etc...our pump/filter and motor (to keep the water circulating) was in the back so you couldn't see it looking out the kitchen window.
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/s_10153_12605_Toys+%26+Games_P...
If you are going to use it often - spend the money and get a good sized one. I just did a google search for above ground pools - here's what Sears has available. I know that Big Lots! has some - I was just there today and had one that was 15' round for $349 - and then beside it they had the "pool kit - skimmer (to get the bugs and leaves out), small bottle of chlorine, pH tester, and some other stuff for another $40 or something like that.
The pools should hold up for several seasons. IF TAKEN CARE OF...
HAVE FUN!!!
http://www.mamapedia.com/questions/8228730399858294785
A question was just asked about this. HTH
We got a 14' above ground round pool from Toys R Us almost 3 years ago for $300 or so and have had very little problems with it. We did have to replace the pump/filter last year. It did take a little while for hubby to get the chemical maintenance correct and keep it from turning green, but he seems to have gotten it now. Deal was he wanted it, so he has to maintain it.
We do like the pool because it has the bars frame which means we don't have to fill it up all the way if we don't want to... it is 3' deep & with a toddler that is too deep. We usually fill it to what is good for the smallest kid - that way they are a little safer (yes I know a kid can drown in a teaspoon of water) and we feel more comfertable with the kids in it that way.
I do think the cheapies are worth it... we do take ours down each fall & store it though.
Based on what you said and that your twins are 5 years old, I would get a pool that will last until you get the in-ground pool you want. If you think you can afford the in-ground pool in 5 years, then you don't need a pool with a 10 year lifespan.
Also, check to see what the sales were for in-ground pools in the fall. You may find that if you schedule with a pool installer now, he may give you more than enough discount to install a pool after the normal season is over to make it affordable this year. They may even have a loaner pool that they will loan you for the season if you are having them install a pool for you.
Be sure to look at Sam's, Costco and Walmart. They often have before and after season sales.
I lived in Albqq for a while and you'll have to take it down over the winter. I hope you can find a good deal.
Good luck to you and yours.
When I was growing up, parents almost put in a built in the ground pool.
Instead they got an above ground, Do-boy (sp?) pool. Perfect!
Lasted almost 7 yrs, took it down when we were "DONE" with it.
Had a ladder.
Now it's not there when I take my child there (I'd worry more).
Not too expensive.
Bought it at a dept store like Sears.
A few years back, we had O. of those quick set pools (the ones with the inflatable ring at the top?
SUPER EASY to put up, take care of, etc.
Usually, you can find good sales....so a $100 purchase could easily last you a few summers. Oh--I see you are in NM, so could you use it nearly year-round? If so, you might get a little less time.
I'd get a decent sized O....with a ladder & filter.
