There are a lot of questions consumers ask us before purchasing an above ground pool. Many have to do with product specific pieces of information and most others have to do with installation. Buying an above ground pool is no small financial endeavor and we want to be sure you make the most educated buying decision possible. As such, we have put together a rather lengthy list of the most commonly asked questions coupled with answers from our knowledge base. Some of the questions and answers are specific regarding the CaliMar brand of above ground pools and others are general. The answers to almost all of these questions would be the same regardless of the pool manufacture and model pool we sell. If when you're done you still have some questions, please feel free to call or email us. We are the Pro's and We Have The Answers!
Our pools are primarily sold as complete packages with everything needed for basic operation to packages that include almost everything you're ever going to want for your pool. Also we sell replacement above ground pools. If you are looking for discount priced pools which are robutst in quality look no farther than ProPools.com because we offer them as well, with full manufacturer’s warranties at wholesale prices.
We offer financing from a 3rd party, Bread which is not affiliated with Propools. Typically they have a very quick turn around on financing approval decisions.
Apply with Bread Today.
All of the CaliMar brand above ground pools have the Best & Same Warranty. 8 Years + 22 years prorated. Hands down, the best, strongest and longest warranty in the industry. Plus all of the liners which come in the pool packages have a Lifetime Warranty.
CaliMar above ground pools are best described as Bigger, Better, Stronger, Longer Lasting above ground pools. The CaliMar® brand above ground pools have Bigger True 8" Top Rails made with Better. Resin materials make this pool Stronger and is assured to last Longer with it's un-matched 8 Year Full-100% warranty plus an additional 22 year Pro-Rated Warranty*.
After extensive research into just what the characteristics are of a quality above ground pool that will stand the test of time we determined there’s no other above ground pool manufacturer that makes a more solid, reliable, long lasting pool than the makers of Doughboy above ground pools. H.I.I. is the manufacturer or CaliMar® pools and is also the manufacturer of Lomart and Doughboy above ground swimming pool. When you think CaliMar, think Doughboy. They're worth it!
Made with the exact same materials and same exacting standards as Doughboy pools are known for the CaliMar® pools are also made. We’ve taken the best of the best of what we know to work hand in hand with H.I.I. to architect and design a series of above ground pools that break the mold and set new standards in the pool industry.
Below is a quick review of the CaliMar above ground pool key components that allow such a Strong Warranty:
- Top Rails
The Chesapeake above ground pool models all are stronger empty than many other above ground pools are when they’re full. The top rails are a true 8” across measuring from edge to edge. Other manufacturers that claim to be 8” wide are measuring around the circumference of the top rail. If the CaliMar top rails were measured using the same method, they would be 12” wide.
Cross Section of Resin Top Rail
The liners that come standard in the CaliMar models are True 15 mil liners, not gauge. Gauge is a matter of subjection and any manufacturer can set their gauge to whatever suits their marketing needs. Mil is an exact international precise measurement for measuring thickness. Measurement is done with a micrometer and all of the liners packaged with the CaliMar® pools are a True 15 Mil Thickness. The liners are about 20% heavier than other liners on the market because of the true nature of the virgin vinyl material and zero use of plasticizers and fillers. Due to the superior strength and integrity of these liners we offer a Lifetime 100% Warranty against seam separations.
Engineered with True-Fold design and thicker Premium Steel with a high end coating all CaliMar above ground pools have a 100% Lifetime Warranty*.
Made from heavier copper bearing steel than industry standards making them 30-60 lbs heavier than other manufacturer models pools. Zinc clad hot-dipped galvanized steel walls receive several protective coatings and a specifically designed epoxy coating providing the best defense against corrosion and condensation. Industry’s thickest corrugation offers industry’s greatest strength and flexibility.
Layers of wall protection shown below.
CaliMar's steel thickness is 25% thicker than the competition providing extra stability and strength to the pool wall.
Large skim surface area removes surface debris faster than any other skimmer on the market. The tall mouth construction allows for greater pool water height fluctuations with a basket twice the size of many competitors.
Vacuum port built into the lower face of the skimmer makes connection of vacuum hose or automatic pool vacuum much easier. Includes skimmer winterizing components and “skimmer door”.
Above ground pools vary in top rail width primarily to reflect pool integrity and strength. The general rule of thumb with above ground pools is the larger the top rail, the larger the vertical upright will be and thus the stronger the pool. Along with this added strength comes a longer warranty.
The CaliMar brand above ground pools have the perfect blend of size and strength which allows them to have the strongest warranty in the swimming pool industry, 8 Years Full. No one else in the industry has a warranty this strong, long and real.
If you're looking for all available above ground pool models of a certain size and shape, we've got the perfect answer. On the above ground pool page, scroll down and you'll find a section titled "Shop By Pool Shape & Wall Height". Once there, you'll see "Round Above Ground Pools by Size" and "Oval Above Ground Pools by Size". Then select our pools size and you'll see all of the above ground pools we offer in that shape and size. This will include all above ground pools regardless of wall height.
A pool with a resin top rail can be a resin hybrid pool or an all resin pool.
One of the largest benefits of a resin top rail is that it is cooler to the touch. Above ground pools are outside and mostly in direct sunlight. A metal top rail will absorb the heat from the sun much like the hood of an automobile and can be very hot to the touch and possibly even cause minor burns.
Hence, the resin top rail was introduced. Resin top rails do not absorb and retain heat like metal does and thus is less likely to cause discomfort when touched by a swimmer. Resin top rails do not rust or corrode if scratched or ‘dinged’. Their color goes all the way through the entire top rail.
Pool Placement - The pool should not be placed over top of septic lines, phone, power or water lines, Etc. Pool should not be placed immediately underneath or beside overhead power lines.
See manufactures warnings for more specific information or contact the manufacture directly.
These above ground pools are the best pools in the industry as they meet or exceed the highest criteria set in the industry for being considered the best. We look at things like top rail size, component structure of the pool, warranty period. Especially how many years is the pool warranted for at 100% coverage against manufacturing defects. This is a clear signal from the manufacturer that the pool is made to withstand.
Our Best above ground pool which we call Platinum Level pools are the best of the best pools in the industry as they meet or exceed the highest criteria set in the industry for being considered the best. We look at things like top rail size, component structure of the pool, warranty period. Especially how many years is the pool warranted for at 100% coverage against manufacturing defects. This is a clear signal from the manufacturer that the pool is made to withstand. Also consider things like is it a chlorine alternative or saltwater friendly pool and just what exactly has the real world exposure and experience of each of the pools been along with structural factors.
All of these pools have met our standards and have proven to meet or exceed each and everyone of these criteria. We're absolutely certain that you'll get more pool than what you're expecting when you purchase one of our Platinum Level above ground pools.
Not exactly. Doughboy brand above ground pool are manufactured by Hollowell Industries Inc. (H.I.I.) and they’re just generally known in the market place as Doughboy pools. The pools share some of the same parts & components as others Doughboy branded pools. CaliMar pools are manufactured by ‘Doughboy’ yet carry an industry unprecedented 8 Year Full warranty plus an additional 22 year warranty.
The ProPools product design group worked hand in hand with the H.I.I.'s engineering team to create the CaliMar above ground pool product line. Working together, we achieved is a pool that is stronger empty than when most others are when they're full of water.
- 8 Year Full Warranty + 22 Pro-Rated
- Lifetime warranty on the bottom track
- Lifetime warranty on the liner
- 3 Year Full Warranty on the filter system, exclusively offered under the CaliMar brand
CaliMar above ground pools have the best warranty in the industry due to their design, structure and manufacture. CaliMar uses all of the right product in all of the right places. Resin where resin is needed and steel where steel is needed. This is both for comfort and longevity of the product.
They are best described as Bigger, Better, Stronger, Longest Lasting above ground pools. True 8” Resin Top Rails are cooler to the touch than steel and are 100% corrosion free. Strong enough to support 300 pounds without breaking. Steel bottom rail with a 100% Lifetime warranty.
Analyzing the Pool Components:
Top Rails
The Chesapeake above ground pool models all are stronger empty than many other above ground pools are when they’re full. The top rails are a true 8” across measuring from edge to edge. Other manufacturers that claim to be 8” wide are measuring around the circumference of the top rail. If the Chesapeake top rails were measured using the same method, they would be 12” wide.
Cross Section of Resin Top RailLiners
The liners that come standard in the Chesapeake models are True 15 mil liners, not gauge. Gauge is a matter of subjection and any manufacturer can set their gauge to whatever suits their marketing needs. Mil is an exact international precise measurement for measuring thickness. Measurement is done with a micrometer and all of the liners packaged with the CaliMar® pools are a True 15 Mil Thickness. The liners are about 20% heavier than other liners on the market because of the true nature of the virgin vinyl material and zero use of plasticizers and fillers. Due to the superior strength and integrity of these liners we offer a Lifetime 100% Warranty against seam separations.Bottom Rails
Engineered with True-Fold design and thicker Premium Steel with a high end coating all Chesapeake above ground pools have a 100% Lifetime Warranty.Walls
All CaliMar walls are made from heavier copper bearing steel than industry standards making them 30-60 pounds heavier than other manufacturer models pools. Zinc clad hot-dipped galvanized steel walls receive several protective coatings and a specifically designed epoxy coating providing the best defense against corrosion and condensation. Industry’s thickest corrugation offers industry’s greatest strength and flexibility.
Layers of wall protection shown below.
Vertical Uprights
Chesapeake's steel thickness is 25% thicker than the competition providing extra stability and strength to the pool wall.Skimmer
Large skim surface area removes surface debris faster than any other skimmer on the market. The tall mouth construction allows for greater pool water height fluctuations with a basket twice the size of many competitors.Vacuum port built into the lower face of the skimmer makes connection of vacuum hose or automatic pool vacuum much easier. Includes skimmer winterizing components and “skimmer door”.
This is a difficult question to answer because everyone's tastes, styles and pocketbooks are different. But there are some basic points which will help you draw a conclusion on which type of above ground pool to purchase.
- Do you want a 48", 52" or 54" - deep pool?
- What size pool and shape best fits your backyard and your family.
- Determine which wall pattern fits your landscaping and community. Typically you want to get a pool that compliments your backyard vacation area. If the pool is the focus of the backyard then choose a pattern which fits the family personality.
- Lastly, Always choose a pool with a SOLID warranty.
Pools can last for years if you choose the right one. Models which offer 100% warranty's or guarantees for the first five to eight years and have a long pro-rated warranty period generally are the better pools.
As a general rule above ground pools with longer warranties are better, stronger pools. It is important to note that a pool may not have one of the strongest warranties but is still an Excellent pool.
Below is a list of how the break down from Top to Bottom.
ModelWarranty Period
CaliMar (6 Different Models)
8 Year Full + 22 Years Prorated Azor 5 Year Full + 55 Year = 60 Year Matrix 5 Year Full + 55 Year = 60 Year Lancaster 5 Year Full + 50% Lifetime Renaissance Lifetime Rockwood Lifetime HydroSphere Lifetime Hudson 4 Year full + 40% Lifetime Magnus - Steel Wall 3 Year Full + 57 Year = 60 Year Magnus - Aluminum Wall 3 Year Full + 57 Year = 60 Year Riviera 3 Year Full + 57 Year = 60 Year Monticello (Nova) 3 Year Full + 47 Year = 50 Year Regency LX 3 Year Full + 28 Year = 28 Year Waterford 3 Year Full + 35% LIfetime Choptank 3 Year Full + 30% LIfetime Ohana 2 Year Full + 38 Year = 40 Year Pretium 1 Year Full + 29 Year = 30 Year Sunray 1 Year Full + 14 Year = 15 Year Splash-A-Round 1 Year Full Swim Gymm 1 Year Full
Ordering from us is extremely simple and easy. You can purchase your above ground pool from our web site or by calling us on the phone. Some customers print out the "Order Offline" form and mail it in with a check. If you decide to do this we will call and let you know of receipt of payment and expected ship date.
Just give us a call (888-352-7582) and find out why people say we're the Pro's.
52" Walls
(Approx. Gallons)
54" Walls
(Approx. Gallons)
Yards of Sand 12' Round 3,568 3,704 1
15' Round 5,068 5,260 1 - 1-1/2
16' Round 5,382 5,586 1-1/2
18' Round 7,298 7,575 1-1/2 - 2 21' Round 9,930 10,307 2-1/2 - 3 24' Round 12,974 13,467 3 - 3-1/2 27' Round 16,420 17,044 3-1/2 - 4 28' Round 16,995 17,641 4 30' Round 20,710 21,497 5 33' Round 27,500 28,545 6 12' x 18' Oval 5,100 5,294 1 - 1-1/2
12' x 20' Oval 5,667 5,882 1-1/2
12' x 21' Oval 5,950 6,176 1-1/2
12' x 23' Oval 6,500 6,747 1-1/2 - 2
12' x 24' Oval 6,800 7,058 1-1/2 - 2 15' x 24' Oval 8,500 8,823 2 15' x 26' Oval 9,200 9,550 2-1/2
15' x 30' Oval
11,521 11,959 3 - 3-1/2 16' x 24' Oval
9,831 10,205 3
16' x 28' Oval
11,470 11,906
3-1/2 16' x 32' Oval
13,109 13,607
3-1/2 - 4
18' x 33' Oval 15,041 15,613 4 - 4-1/2 18' x 34' Oval
15,497 16,086 4-1/2 18' x 40' Oval 17,900 18,580 4-1/2 - 5 21' x 41' Oval 20,200 20,967 5 - 5-1/2
21' x 43' Oval
21,185 21,990
6
Gallons and Yards of Sand Needed under the liner are approximates.
Hands Down the best alternative to chlorine is the Pool Frog Mineral Reservoir System. It is also the number one alternative to saltwater chlorine generators. These units will NOT void any above ground pool manufacturer’s warranty by using it.
- NO ALGAE GUARANTEE
- Less Water Maintenance, Uses up to 50% Less Chlorine
- Just the right amount with pref-filled pacs
- No More Red Eyes, No Fading or Bleaching of Swimsuits
- Soft & Gentle on the Skin
- Two Year Warranty
A Pool Frog System is the complete pool water care system with a No Algae Guarantee when used as directed. That's right, have a no algae swimming pool all season long.
Pool Frog System will make you a believer in mineral pool care with above ground pool water that feels incredibly silky soft, so your skin stays silky smooth. When installed on one of our above ground pools, it’s like looking into a mirror because mineral water has a crystal clear shine.
Pool Frog Mineral technology reduces chlorine use up to 50%. Just replace the pool frog Bac-Pac every 6 months or one pool season and experience much less work, so you’ll have more time to vacation in and around your above ground pool.
Pool Frog 6100 System makes a difference you can see and feel:
- Clear Water
- Less Water Maintenance ( Uses up to 50% Less Chlorine )
- Less Work with pref-filled pacs
- Recyclable Containers
- No More Red Eyes
- Soft & Gentle on the Skin
- Easier on Pool Surfaces
- No Fading or Bleaching of Swimsuits
- Two Year Warranty
- Don't forget to BAM your pool with Pool Frog Bam - It's the no algae hassle guarantee
If a saltwater chlorinator is to be used on an above ground pool and the warranty is wanted to be kept intact, then the pool must be a saltwater approved pool. Above ground pools that are not salt water approved will not have the warranties honored if a saltwater chlorine generator is installed on the pool.
No. There are alternatives to chlorine such as the Pool Frog Mineral Reservoir System, Saltwater Chlorination Systems and others. See More Here.
The pool returns with the lights in them which Propools sells with their pools is sealed at the manufacture so the water is totally separate and away from any of the electric which is powering the light. Yes, the light is UL approved.
If you're interested in purchasing a replacement above ground pool you should first find the particular pool model and size you would want.
Once that pool page loads, click on the 'Included' tab. Next, scroll down to the individual items which make up the complete pool package. From here you can click on the individual components and add them to your shopping cart.
Note:
Replacement pools should have at least the following items:
- Above Ground Pool Sub-Assembly
- Liner (You can choose that liner or any of the available pool liners.)
- Skimmer & Return Combination
The pool packages which do not list the skimmer and return as a component already have the skimmer and return included with the sub-assembly. This means the skimmer and return already come with the pool sub-assembly.
On each of the individual product pages on Propools there are page 'tabs' similar to the image below.
- Overview tab - This is the tab first shown on the page when the page is initially viewed. It shows core relevant product specific information.
- Included tab - If the page is a package of multiple items such as an above ground pool, the 'included' tab would show all items which are included in the package or kit.
- Warranty tab - Specifies the product warranty of the item
- FAQ tab - Displays a list of frequently asked questions regarding the item or package
- Upgrade Options tab - Displays key available product upgrades for that item or package
- Additional Purchase Items tab - Displays additional items which can be purchased which may greatly enhance the use of this product.
- More Sizes & Similar Pools tab - Displays other pool sizes of that model pool and other similar pools of that same size
Once the installation site is level and the assembly process is ready; an above ground pool is typically assembled using 3 people in 1 day. To be on the safe side plan on a weekend.
Two people can put up most pools, but we recommend that you always have that extra hand so we say 3.
Yes. Most oval above ground pools can have a deeper end up to 6 feet as per manufacturers’ discretion. Larger round above ground pools can also have a deeper end. This is achieved with an expandable above ground pool liner.
Expandable is an industry term and does not mean the liner will stretch.
To see all of the individual items included in your pool package, navigate to the page which shows the model and size pool that you are interested in. Once the page loads, just below the main image there are several named tabs. Click on the ‘Included’ tab and all items included within the pool package are listed.
The upgrade options for individual pools can be found by clicking on the “Upgrade Options” tab which is located in a tab bar below the main picture on the page. Additionally other tabs may be available to show other items which may be purchased with the pool in the “Additional Purchase Items” or “Additional Sizes & Similar Pools” tabs.
There are no above ground pools in which 100% of all pool components are resin. The walls in above ground pools are manufactured with a metal alloy material; which is steel or aluminum.
There are above ground pools which have steel walls and all other components are resin. In the industry these are not considered resin hybrid above ground pools but resin pools. The Azor 54” wall above ground pools is a good example a resin above ground pool.
Yes. The packages we have for the pools contain the most popular quality products. These products are tried and true and have a very good proven track record for reliability. However, if you want to change any of the items in a package we can do this for you and provide you a complete custom package.
Simply, email or call us and we can create the package you'd like.
What information do you need to customize a package for me?
- Name, City, State, Zip and Email address
- Pool Type & Size
- What items do you want to remove from the package?
- What items do you want to add to the package?
Give us time to develop the quote and we will email you a finalized quote which you'll be able to order from when you are ready to purchase. Email to: [email protected]
You will need in general at least the following:
No. A 52” wall will typically have approximately a 46” water depth. Why only 46” of water?
Explanation:
The walls are 52” tall. There must be a 2” sand bed inside of the pool wall which reduces the 52” to 50”. Then the water level in the pool is typically 4” from the top of the pool wall which is approximately the middle height of the skimmer opening. This brings the approximate water depth to 46”. The same calculations can be done with 48” and 54” wall above ground pools also.
Yes. All of the individual model pool sizes are in packages. The contents of what is included in the package can be seen by clicking on the “Included” tab below the main picture on the page. Then scroll down to see which liner is included in the package. If there are upgrade options the available liners for upgrade an also be found by clicking on the “Upgrade Options” or “Additional Purchase Items” tabs which are to the right of the “Included” tab.
The upgrade options can vary by liner pattern, connection style and liner thickness. If a deeper area to the pool is wanted these liner upgrades are not listed in the tabs but can be found by clicking on Vinyl Pool Liners then Expandable Pool Liners from the left-hand vertical navigation bar.
Liner Gauge thickness is an arbitrary number by any manufacture but Liner Mil thickness is a widely accepted international measurement of thickness.
CaliMar Liners are measured in mil, a true measurement. Don't be confused by the liner gauge "games" played with most commodity liners. Some will call their liner 20 gauge when they only measure 10 mil.
Examples:
- An 18' printed vinyl commodity liner Perma 2000 series weighs 41 lbs. and is marketed as 20 gauge and is closer to a 12 mil thickness, while the Doughboy 18' printed liner weighs 75 lbs and is a True 15 mil in thickness.
- A Perma 2500 series weighs 46 lbs and is marketed as a 25 gauge and is closer a 15 mil, while the Doughboy Expandable 18' printed vinyl liner weighs 84 lbs. and is a True 20 mil thickness.
Liner Thickness:
Above ground pool liners are generally marketed and sold by thickness standard called gauge. Gauge is not a set number but is a truly relative number and is it's up to each of the liner manufacturers to determine which gauge they want to use for stating their liners' thickness.The truest measure of a pool liner is done using an international standard of mil thickness. This is an absolute fixed measuring system. Just like an inch is an inch, so too is a mil. Above ground pool liners because of the nature of the pools and their price generally do not have as thick a liner as an in ground pool. Therefore many of the above ground pool liner manufacturers started using gauge as a reference to their particular liners' thickness.
In the marketplace today there are really only two general gauges; standard gauge and heavy gauge. We offer pools with standard gauge and others with heavy gauge pool liners. Regardless of whether it's standard gauge or heavy gauge most above ground pool liners last anywhere between 8 and 15 years.
Our liners are made by the leading industry liner manufacturer and we are 100% confident the liner you get with your pool will last well beyond its warranty period of 15 years.
CaliMar brand above ground pools which are manufactured by the same company who makes Doughboy are the only liners in the marketplace with a True 15 and 20 mil in ground liner thickness. They've a lifetime warranty on seam separations, the most common failure point in liners.
Liner Types:
Standard Above Ground Pool Liners are also called LapOver above ground pool liners or OverLap Pool Liners. Beaded liners were the only available option for above ground pool liners until the advent of the J-Bead liner. However, the J-Bead liner by itself did not lead to wide spread market acceptance so, the UniBead liner was created. The UniBead liner is the best of both of these worlds. It has the "J" to hook over the wall and it also has the "bead" to be used in a bead receiver.Please note that if you want to use a UniBead liner as a beaded or "hung liner", you will have to use it with a bead receiver.
We sell the Embassy Premium above ground pool liners as standard on all CaliMar above ground pool packages. These liners are made by Hoffinger Industries Inc. (Doughboy) and are heavier than most in-ground liners sold today.
There are 3 major reasons to purchase an Embassy pool liner over a low-cost commodity liner:
1. Liner Thickness
- Embassy liners are typically 40%-80% heavier in both weight and thickness.
- Embassy liners have the same weight and thickness on both the sidewall and the bottom. Commodity liners typically have thicker, heavier sidewall than bottoms. Commodity liner manufacturers do this to reduce the price of the liner, but only advertise the sidewall thickness which can be misleading.
- Embassy liners are manufactured with heavier vinyl material and will last 50% to 90% longer than commodity liners.
- Embassy liners protect the sidewall and bottom of the liner from tears, rips, punctures, and holes caused by foreign objects in the soil, objects on clothing, windblown objects, lawn care debris, and entry system (ladders & step) contact on the bottoms and sidewalls.
2. Raw Material Make-Up
- There are 3 major ingredients in the chemical makeup of a vinyl liner:
- PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) is the main building block that goes into creating vinyl liners. PVC makes up 50%-60% of the total raw ingredients.
- Plasticizer (petroleum-based oil) is another key ingredient that makes up 35%-40% of the total raw ingredients. This ingredient determines the flexibility of the liner and increases its chemical resistance and life span.
- Inert Materials (calcium carbonate – a.k.a. clay) and Stabilizers make up 11%-30% of the total raw material ingredients.
- Embassy liners have increased levels of plasticizer and low levels of calcium carbonate. Typically raw material plasticizer costs are 4-5 times more per pound than calcium carbonate. Embassy liners, with increased levels of plasticizer, will remain flexible during the life of the liner providing a wrinkle-free installation and minimizing UV fading. Commodity liners use a lower level of plasticizer (to save money) therefore compromising the quality of the liner.
3. Liner Life Span:
- When comparing the purchase of Embassy liners to commodity liners (calculated over the life span of the liner), Embassy liners usually last 10-15 years. Commodity liners typically last 2-5 years. Both incur the same cost for installation, water and labor.
Why buy an Embassy above ground pool liner instead of a low-cost commodity liner?
- 40%-80% heavier in both weight and thickness
- Same weight and thickness on both the sidewall and the bottom
- Made of a heavier vinyl material and will last 50%-90% longer
- Protect the sidewall and bottom of the liner from tears, rips, punctures and holes
- With higher levels of plasticizer, will remain flexible throughout the life of the liner, providing wrinkle-free installation and minimizing UV fading
- Typically last 10-15 years
Embassy liners are measured in mil, a true measurement. Don't be confused by the liner gauge "games" played with most commodity liners. Some will call their liner 20 gauge when they only measure 10 mil.
Examples:
- An 18' printed vinyl commodity liner Perma 2000 series weighs 41 lbs. and is marketed as 20 gauge and is closer to a 12 mil thickness, while the Embassy 18' printed liner weighs 75 lbs and is a True 15 mil in thickness.
- A Perma 2500 series weighs 46 lbs and is marketed as a 25 gauge and is closer a 15 mil, while the Embassy Expandable 18' printed vinyl liner weighs 84 lbs. and is a True 20 mil thickness.
Liner Thickness:
Above ground pool liners are generally marketed and sold by thickness standard called gauge. Gauge is not a set number but is a truly relative number and is it's up to each of the liner manufacturers to determine which gauge they want to use for stating their liners' thickness.The truest measure of a pool liner is done using an international standard of mil thickness. This is an absolute fixed measuring system. Just like an inch is an inch, so to; is a mil. Above ground pool liners because of the nature of the pools and their price generally do not have as thick a liner as an in ground pool. Therefore many of the above ground pool liner manufacturers started using gauge as a reference to their particular liners' thickness.
In the marketplace today there are really only two general gauges; standard gauge and heavy gauge. We offer pools with standard gauge and others with heavy gauge pool liners. Regardless of whether it's standard gauge or heavy gauge most above ground pool liners last anywhere between 8 and 15 years.
Our liners are made by the leading industry liner manufacturer and we are 100% confident the liner you get with your pool will last well beyond its warranty period of 15 years.
Our Standard Gauge is a more economical liner with acceptable thickness and wear considerations.
Our Heavy Gauge liners are the thickest above ground pool liners on the market today surpassing our standards for thickness and wear.
Our CaliMar brand above ground pools which are manufactured by the same company who makes Doughboy are the only liners in the marketplace with a True 15 and 20 mil in ground liner thickness. They've a lifetime warranty on seam separations, the most common failure point in liners.
Embassy Above Ground Pool Liner Descriptions
Embassy Liner Thickness
Athena Pattern Uni-Bead Liner - 52" Wall
20 Mil
Rio Pattern Uni-Bead Liner - 52" Wall
15 Mil
Aurora Pattern Overlap Liner - 52" Wall
15 Mil
Athena Pattern Uni-Bead Liner - 54" Wall
20 Mil
Rio Pattern Uni-Bead Liner - 54" Wall
15 Mil
Seaside Pattern Overlap Expandable Liner
20 Mil
No. Expandable liners are not expandable in the sense that they stretch like a Spandex material does. Expandable liners have plasticizers which do minimally stretch but there is a specific fixed maximum depth. They are made of vinyl material that is only made to slightly stretch due to its pliability. The term expandable liner originates from the concept of a flat bottom above ground pool. Taking a flat bottom pool mindset and expanding it to have a slightly deeper swim area.
Several years ago there were only flat bottom above ground pools. A fixed depth if you will. Then a liner was designed that would allow the flat bottom concept to be expanded to include a deeper area for swimming. Thus the birth of expandable pool liners. Today, the expandable liner depths now vary from 60" to 72" depending upon the liner manufacture.
Yes it does. There are times the pool wall is kicked or bumped by a swimmer causing the liner to press against the steel wall. Wall foam between the wall and liner softens blows such as these, reducing liner fatigue.
Wall foam also creates space between the liner and the wall allowing the liner to now lay up against what could be an abrasive metal object.
CaliMar Filter Systems have the strongest, longest and best warranty in the industry because each individual system is meticulously hand crafted to work in your backyard. All of the components for the filter system are manufactured at the ‘Doughboy’ plant’. No imports. Each system is tested prior to leaving the plant, so if you’ve a little water in the pump when you get it; rest assured it has passed inspection and is built to far exceed the 3 Year Full Warranty period. Comparatively speaking, other manufactures only have a 1 year warranty. CaliMar, it’s just that reliable and just that good. 3 Year Full Warranty.
Absolutely. Sand systems are the standard for on ground pools. There are two types of filters which have a higher effective filtration and those are cartridge filters and diatomaceous earth filters. Each of the pumps and filters in the filter systems are properly matched to assure optimum performance and hydraulic delivery from each of the manufacturers.
If you're wanting to upgrade your filter system be certain that the turnover rate on the filter will turn the number of gallons over in your pool at a minimum of every 8 hours.
No. Each Above Ground Pool package comes with a properly matched High Quality Filter System that more than handles the gallons needed for the pool to maintain crystal clear water. Proper and regular swimming pool maintenance is required.
However, if you still want to up size the filter system, it may be possible. Simply email or call us for more details.
Resin top rails vary in strength depending upon the manufacture. CaliMar top rails will hold the weight of at least 300 pounds before deforming. In fact, we have even taken one of the CaliMar top rails out, laid it in the parking lot and drove over it with a full size SUV.
The rail became a bit deformed but did not break or splinter.
One of the reasons the CaliMar top rails are so strong is the honeycomb design of the True 8” top rail as shown below.
Above ground pools vary in top rail width primarily to reflect pool integrity and strength. The general rule of thumb with above ground pools is the larger the top rail, the larger the vertical upright will be and thus the stronger the pool. Along with this added strength comes a longer warranty.
The CaliMar brand above ground pools have the perfect blend of size and strength which allows them to have the strongest warranty in the swimming pool industry, 8 Years Full. No one else in the industry has a warranty this strong, long and real.
Yes, provided the pool is approved for a salt chlorine generation system. For an above ground pool to be approved for salt water use, a manufacture must design other specific components to withstand the corrosive nature of saltwater. See manufacture information to determine if the above ground pool is approved for satlwater use.
Yes. In one method or another we can get either an all vinyl pool dome or a screen/vinyl dome for your pool. First determine if you want an all vinyl dome or a dome with the lower perimeter made of a nylon screen and the top covering portion made of vinyl.
- All Vinyl Pool Domes
- Screen / Vinyl Pool Domes
If you are not able to find a dome that fits the pool on any of those links we just need to know a little information and we'll look in our swimming pool dome database and find a dome to fit.
Here's what we need:
- Manufacturer & Model of Pool
- Diameter of a round pool or length and width of an oval pool, specify if oval or rectangular pool.
- Number of vertical uprights on the pool
- Width of the top rail, measuring the top flat portion only
- Length of the top rail from the center of one top cap to the center of the next top cap on the outside of the top rail.
On oval pools we need this measurement on one of the curved ends and on one of the straight sides
(See Illustration below for proper measuring from center to center)
- What are the benefits of having a Sun Dome on my pool?
Warming and heating is one of the key benefits – it warms the air (40 degrees) and water with solar heat up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. It also protects your pool from leaves, bugs, debris and early spring or late summer breezes. Moreover, because your pool is protected, you cut down on the use of chemicals and expensive cleaning costs.- Is there a Sun Dome to fit my pool?
Domes can be made to fit almost any round or oval above-ground pool. Sun Domes for in-ground pools are rectangle in shape.- What is the Sun Dome made of? The cover material is 12-mil double polished clear vinyl. The frame is 1” diameter polished aluminum tubes. Neoprene shock chords attach to grommets to secure the enclosure over your pool.
- Is there a Warranty? The manufacturer covers your Sun Dome for One year for defects in material or workmanship. The average life of the Sun Dome Vinyl is 3 – 5 years depending on the environment it is exposed to and how well it is cared for.
- Can I install a Sun Dome myself?
Most of our customers do install the Sun Dome easily at home. Generally, it takes 2 – 3 hours, assuming you have a power drill, measuring tape and duct tape. In-ground pool domes however require more installation – generally for this product you should assume it would take two average strength male adults, 8 hours.- Do you have someone to install it for me?
No, we suggest contacting a local handyman.- What about winter weather conditions?
The Sun Domes will usually take winds up to 40-45 mph, however, it is not made to withstand heavy sustained winds, and more important, the weight of snow. In heavy snowfall areas, it is necessary to remove the dome before the first snowfall, on a sunny day.- How do I clean my Sun Dome?
We suggest cleaning the Sun Dome with mild soap and water – dish or car wash soap work best. Test a small patch first to ensure the product you select works properly. Please note: do not use any oil-based products, as it will damage the vinyl. There are no cleaning requirements, however if there is lots of debris on your Sun Dome we suggest you clean it before storing.- What if my Sun Dome gets punctured or damaged?
We supply a patch with every Sun Dome when it is sent to you. However, if you need additional patch vinyl material, please contact us directly.- How do you take down a Sun Dome and how do you store it?
In order to take down the Sun Dome, simply unsnap the neoprene cords all the way around the pool and gently tug the cover up and over the frame. Make sure the cover is clean and dry prior to folding it for storage. It can be rolled up, similar to a sleeping bag and should be stored in a cool dry place when not in use. Also, cornstarch can be sprinkled between the folds of the vinyl to keep it from sticking together. If a dome cover is wet prior to storing it may turn milky white. However, this condition will clear up once the cover is back on the frame and exposed to sunlight.- Does my Sun Dome protect me from harmful UV Rays?
While it is not intended for sun-protection, it will keep UV Rays out. You can get a slight tan with the dome on, but you will not get a sun burn per se’.- How do I order replacement parts if I need them?
Just give a call or send us an email.
The above ground pool fence sections we sell are made of resin and may need to be cut to fit each top seat(top rail) section of your pool. They are easily cut with a hand saw.
How many sections do I need for my pool? You will need to know how many top seat sections of your above ground pool need the fence. Count those sections and that is how many sections of above ground pool fence are needed. A partial section still counts as one entire section needed.
What if I want to Also Purchase a Gate: If there are 16 top seats on the pool and a gate is wanted, a 16 Top Seat kit should be purchased along with the gate. The gate does not cover the entire top seat space; therefore an abbreviated section of the fence will be required.
Knowledge Base:
A Top Seat is the horizontal rail at the top of the pool. There is one top seat between each of the two vertical uprights which go around the pool.
Number 1 in the image below identifies a top seat (top rail).
Yes. When installing a heater on a hard sided above ground pool it is a good practice to use rigid schedule 40 plumbing for the entire filtration system. There are 3 primary types of above ground pool heaters:
- Gas fired heaters
- Heat Pumps
- Solar Heaters
Yes but there is no need to do that and the insulation on the sides of the pool may cause the pool to 'sweat' which may also cause the walls to rust and corrode.
Over 95% of the heat loss on an above ground pool occurs through the surface of the pool. A solar cover is your best option to prevent heat loss in the pool.
Yes. If you are relatively handy, can follow written directions then putting an above ground pool together should not be that difficult. Of course if you’ve any questions along the way, you are more than welcome to give us a call and we’ll ‘walk you through it’. Below are installation videos for the CaliMar above ground pools.
- Round CaliMar above ground pool installation video: https://youtu.be/edSgCSzHanU
- Oval CaliMar above ground pool installation video: https://youtu.be/x7vQkXZcfvI
With any installation questions regarding pool installation you can contact our customer support staff who is ready willing and able to assist you. There may be times where we need to bring the individual manufacturers into the conversation.
If you’re looking for an installer you can certainly contact the local pool company/installer. However, these pools do not require any special training per se. Ie. Installer does not have to be a swimming pool company. There are many local ‘handymen’, general contractors, concrete companies, landscapers, etc. that install above ground pools. If you know of someone or have a friend who has had a pool installed you can always ask them.There are also plenty of sources online that you can utilize for finding a competent installer. There are sites like the Facebook ‘Local Pages’, Google, Houzz, Angie’s List, Etc. which may be a good source for finding an installer.
Above Ground Pools
Above ground pools should have a dedicated 20 amp breaker. Generally only 110/120 volt connections are all that are needed. Any in pool lighting should have a dedicated GFCI breaker for in pool lighting connections. Additionally any outdoor outlets should also be on a GFCI breaker.Consult an electrical inspector, licensed electrician and equipment installation/users manuals for exact electricity requirements and proper wire sizing.
In Ground & On Ground Pools
In Ground and On Ground pools should have a dedicated 20 amp breaker. Generally only 110/120 volt connections are all that are needed for the equipment. Any in pool lighting should have a dedicated GFCI breaker for in pool lighting connections.Consult an electrical inspector, licensed electrician and equipment installation/users manuals for exact electricity requirements and proper wire sizing.
The ground should be free of all exposed roots, rocks and ground objects that have any sort of jagged edge or protrusion which may work their way up through the sand and puncture the liner.
To see all of the installation information for the items, navigate to the page which shows the model and size pool that you are interested in. Once the page loads, just below the main image there are several named tabs. Click on the ‘Resources’ tab and any applicable installation information will be listed and viewable as PDF’s.
No. Fill material can wash away or settle over time allowing the pool to become out of level and thus unstable. When a pool becomes too far out of level it causes undue stress on the downward wall which will cause it to burst which could result in property damage, personal injury and/or death.
One of the potential dangers of burying a pool in the ground is the ground pressure pushing the side walls in and them collapsing on someone causing property damage, personal injury or death. When done properly it is possible to partially bury an above ground pool in the ground.
In general terms this is how it's done. At a minimum you'll need to at least do the following:
- Over-dig the area around the pool by 12"
- Line the pool wall that will be in the ground with a heavy bodied plastic going down the wall and across the "over-dig" area.
- Place a slotted drain pipe in the "over-dig" area and extend it out to a place that will allow any ground water to drain. (Water should not ever stand up against a pool wall.)
- Once drain pipe is installed back fill on-top of the pipe with 3/4" gravel up to 3" of where the ground will be.
- Then place dirt, grass, etc.
Below is a slotted drain pipe with a sock on it to prevent dirt from entering the drain pipe. The gravel below the pipe is the type of gravel to cover the drain pipe with.
Always consult the manufactures warranty information to determine if the pool will still maintain the manufactures warranty if it is buried in this fashion, as there are also other methods of partially burying a pool in the ground.If the pool is to be installed 12” or more in the ground and the soil around the pool is sandy or non-compactible and will not stay in place then it may be necessary to pour a cement ‘slurry’ solution around the pool perimeter if the pool. This is because if the pool is ever empty the loose ground surrounding the pool will want to and can push inward on the wall, collapsing it inward. Typically if the soil is compactible, it will not push into the pool when the pool is empty for a short period of time.
No. The bottom track/rails should sit on the ground but the bottom plates which join the bottom track/rails together must sit on patio blocks. The ground can possibly settle differently in different areas around the pool causing the pool to become out of level, causing an eventual pool wall failure which could result in property damage, personal injury and/or death.
There should not be any more than ¾” difference in elevation between any two patio blocks used under the pool uprights. Each patio block itself should be level from side to side and front to back.
To determine where the patio blocks go under the bottom track of the pool the entire bottom track should be assembled with the bottom plates. Measurements should be done across the track to ensure the pool is perfectly symmetrical. During the installation of the pool wall, there are times when the bottom tracks need to be adjusted inward out outward marking the area slightly larger or smaller than it was initially. Using a 12” x 12” patio block centered under each of the bottom plates should provide more than enough room to make these types of adjustments.
No. The patio blocks should be placed level in the ground such that the top of the patio block is level with the top of the ground. This will allow the bottom track/rails to sit firmly on solid ground that will not wash away over time.
Patio blocks are only required to go underneath of the vertical uprights, not under the bottom track/rail.
Simply Add the number of uprights in the pool package and that is how many patio blocks you will need. It is possible to buy 12" x 12" x 2" thick patio blocks and have them cut in half to use under the uprights.
The patio blocks under the vertical uprights should be 2” thick and can vary in length & width from 12” x 12” to 6” x 8”. Use only single patio blocks. Do not put multiple blocks together as they can become out of level and damage the pool frame.
No. The downward pressure on the bottom rail is the same as it is on the bottom plates of the pool. Therefore there is just as much pressure on the bottom rail as there is on the bottom plates. When the bottom rail is suspended between the bottom plates, a patio block or blocks must be installed along the top rail where the bottom rail is suspended in the air, just as it is under the bottom plates. Failure to do so may cause the wall and bottom rail to bow downward toward the ground.
Why do I Need A Pool Cove?
The red arrows represent the force of water pushing against the Earth and the pool wall. The point where these two forces meet is indicated by the purple arrow. At this point, the net force is of such magnitude that it will force your liner under your pool wall and can cause it to rupture. A cove disperses those forces so that the liner will not slip under the wall. Drawings above and below do not show the 2" bed of material that should be put inside the pool and under the liner to help visualize the need for the cove.
Doughboy liners are just that good which is why they're able to offer the industry’s most comprehensive and exhaustive warranties. No one else has this strong of an above ground pool liner warranty.
The bottom plates have tabs on them. Slide the bottom tracks all the way in until they stop. Once the wall is in the bottom track, they may have to be adjusted outward to allow the pool wall enough area to sit down in the bottom track and properly bolt together.
No. It is not at all uncommon for the wall ends not to meet up exactly when first installing the pool wall. If the ends don’t meet together with bolt holes aligning, equally adjust all the bottom tracks/rails inward or outward depending upon if the wall appears to short or too long.
Pool wall 'buckling' is not normal but is not uncommon. If pool and liner are installed correctly, the wall should ‘bounce’ back.
Buckling can occur when:
- This can also be a sign of the liner not installed correctly
- Liner is not symmetrical in the pool
- Liner over the wall too much on lap over liners
- If the pool is out of level the walls will buckle and could cause irreversible damage to the pool and/or personal property.
Some of the CaliMar brand pool walls come in two sections. The larger pools like the 30’ pool has two smaller wall sections which should be bolted together. Basically, the complete wall comes in two halves. They get bolted together to make the 30’ diameter pool.
When a pool comes with two wall sections, each of the two wall sections will have one skimmer and one return hole punched out of them. Inside each of those wall cartons under the carton flap, there will be two pieces of wall section. One to cover the skimmer hole and the other to cover the return hole. These pieces can be duct taped in place during assembly. Then the weight of the water holds them in place.
Sand should be placed in the center of the pool prior to putting up the pool wall. It's easier than shoveling sand over the wall.
Don't spread the sand out until just before you put the liner in place. Spread the sand out making a 2" bed under the liner. Where the bottom of the wall meets the floor a 6" cove should be made to allow the liner to migrate from the pull wall around to the floor.Once the sand is spread out making a 2" bottom, use a hand tamp to tamp the sand down to a smooth flat surface.
52" Walls
(Approx. Gallons)
54" Walls
(Approx. Gallons)
Yards of Sand 12' Round 3,568 3,704 1
15' Round 5,068 5,260 1 - 1-1/2
16' Round 5,382 5,586 1-1/2
18' Round 7,298 7,575 1-1/2 - 2 21' Round 9,930 10,307 2-1/2 - 3 24' Round 12,974 13,467 3 - 3-1/2 27' Round 16,420 17,044 3-1/2 - 4 28' Round 16,995 17,641 4 30' Round 20,710 21,497 5 33' Round 27,500 28,545 6 12' x 18' Oval 5,100 5,294 1 - 1-1/2
12' x 20' Oval 5,667 5,882 1-1/2
12' x 21' Oval 5,950 6,176 1-1/2
12' x 23' Oval 6,500 6,747 1-1/2 - 2
12' x 24' Oval 6,800 7,058 1-1/2 - 2 15' x 24' Oval 8,500 8,823 2 15' x 26' Oval 9,200 9,550 2-1/2
15' x 30' Oval
11,521 11,959 3 - 3-1/2 16' x 24' Oval
9,831 10,205 3
16' x 28' Oval
11,470 11,906
3-1/2 16' x 32' Oval
13,109 13,607
3-1/2 - 4
18' x 33' Oval 15,041 15,613 4 - 4-1/2 18' x 34' Oval
15,497 16,086 4-1/2 18' x 40' Oval 17,900 18,580 4-1/2 - 5 21' x 41' Oval 20,200 20,967 5 - 5-1/2
21' x 43' Oval
21,185 21,990
6
Gallons and Yards of Sand Needed under the liner are approximates.
A 2” Thick sand/cement mix is a great bottom to put in an above ground pool. It is semi-permanent concrete that will keep its form and consistency for years to come. This type of material allows for a perfectly smooth surface and when completed a pool pad can be put between the sand cement surface and the pool liner to create that ‘new carpet’ feeling of padding under the feet when walking. On ground pools do not require a pool pad nor pool cove. A pool cove is not required because the pool liners are custom made to fit the pool at 90 degree angle where the wall meets the floor.
For cost purposes it is possible to make your own sand/cement mix on the job. We use a ratio of 6 shovels of masonry sand to 1 shovel of Gray Portland cement in a rented paddle mixer. Using a paddle mixer will allow 2 – 3 loads of sand/cement mix to be made at one time.
No. There is debris in the dirt which can puncture a hole in the liner due to the weight of the water and peoples feet pressing downward and twisting on the liner.
For more information also see:
- What type of sand do I need to put under my above ground pool liner?
Yes. We recommend either of the two methods below:
- A 2” Thick sand/cement mix is a great bottom to put in an above ground pool. It is semi-permanent concrete that will keep its form and consistency for years to come. This type of material allows for a perfectly smooth surface and when completed a pool pad can be put between the sand cement surface and the pool liner to create that ‘new carpet’ feeling of padding under the feet when walking. On ground pools do not require a pool pad nor pool cove. A pool cove is not required because the pool liners are custom made to fit the pool at 90 degree angle where the wall meets the floor.
For cost purposes it is possible to make your own sand/cement mix on the job. We use a ratio of 6 shovels of masonry sand to 1 shovel of Gray Portland cement in a rented paddle mixer. Using a paddle mixer will allow 2 – 3 loads of sand/cement mix to be made at one time.
- Pool Krete Premix is a quality blend of expanded vermiculite, Portland cement, and admixtures designed to be mixed with water and troweled to form a long-lasting hard bottom for on ground pools. The proper use of Pool Krete will enhance the quality of the pool installation and prolong the life of the vinyl liner.
Pool Krete is a porous but rigid liner base, which offers numerous benefits to both the pool installer and the pool owner. With no waste and minimal clean up, this professional approach to hard bottom installations result in greater customer satisfaction.
Never use a true concrete or any material with rocks in the base.
Sifted sand is what is recommended to go underneath an above ground pool liner.
You may find a material like a sifted crush 'n run which can be tamped down in place. If using this material it is recommended that you also top that with some pool bottom material and use a Pre-Fabricated cove material. Such as these listed below:
- Horizon Pool Pad & Cove Kit for above ground pools
- GLI Armor Shield & Gladon Pool Cove kit for a 12' Pool
Household carpet should not be installed underneath any pool liner as the carpet will hold moisture and mold, fungus, algae will grow in the carpet and leach through the liner creating permanent stains and possible health hazard(s).
An approved vinyl liner under-layment material is highly recommended. There are several to choose from here.
No, not exactly. The reason sand is used in the pool bottom is because the liner manufacturers require a non-abrasive material between the liner and the ground. It's also the cheapest and easiest to install. A 2" sand bed must be installed under the liner, then a product called Happy Bottom or Perfect Pool Pad is great for reducing the amount of sand required but not eliminating it.
You can elect not to use sand but a sand cement mix. This would be the ultimate type of pool bottom to use because the material becomes solid and does not leave footprints or drag marks when the liner is put in. It is possible to make you own sand cement mix on the job site.Use 7 shovels of sand to 1 shovel of gray Portland Cement. Mix it in a paddle mixer until the consistency is about like that of a heavy bodied oatmeal. Typically 2 - 3 batches can be mixed at a time and will fit into a standard size construction wheel barrow.
A pool liner should not be installed in a pool when the ambient air temperature is below 60 degrees. Ideally 65 degrees with direct sunlight on the liner during installation will help allow the liner to be more pliable, creating a better fit.
If the liner must be installed when it’s below 60 degrees, then the vertical height of the pool cove should be 9”. In addition to increasing the height of the pol cove, the liner should be vacuumed back to the pool wall and floor prior to filling with water or cutting the liner in.
No. The liner manufactures do not always have the liner seam directly at the bottom of the pool wall or along the cove. The seam is usually higher than the floor and may partially come up the wall. This is done by design by the liner manufactures.
The liner seam should be uniform around the entire pool as shown in the image below.
Not necessarily. It is totally natural for the liner to have wrinkles when it is first put into a pool. A properly sized liner will almost always have wrinkles when it’s first installed but when it is full of water; all wrinkles should be gone.
There is no one specific method of physically taking the wrinkles out of a liner. It’s really a matter of what works best for you. Though there are really only 3 methods of when to take out the wrinkles.
- Liner is in the pool and just sitting there -
- There are times when a liner is put in a pool and it fits almost perfect with only minor wrinkles which "pull themselves out" when the weight of the water is applied and the liner stretches.
- Liner is in the pool and a vacuum is used to suck the air out -
- Using a vacuum suck the air out from behind the liner. Be sure to seal with duct tape any openings around the pool that would prevent a good vacuum seal. As the liner gets pulled back against the wall and floors you will be able to see how the liner will ‘lay down’.
It is at this point which the wrinkles can be worked out by spreading the liner in small increments in any number of different directions depending upon how the wrinkle lies and the height of the wrinkle. Some wrinkles need to be slowly taken down over the course of a few feet of moving the wrinkle away and slowly making the wrinkle smaller and smaller until it disappears.
Once the wrinkles are out of the liner; leave the vacuum on until the pool has at least 12” of water in it. This will allow the weight of the water to hold the liner in place when the vacuum is taken off of the liner.- Liner is in the pool and pool is filling with water -
- Of the 3 methods, this can be the most difficult. It can be difficult because even an inch of water makes it very difficult to move the liner and slowly spread it out as described in step two above.
- This is an unwritten fourth method which is to do both #2 and #3 above at the same time. This process is really only for the pros because if you’re not quick about it the liner may get to much water on in and then you can’t move the liner any more.
Round Pools
Most of the time when this happens the pool is either not true round, making it a bit elliptical and/or the pool is out of level.
Consult the manufactures installation instructions for proper cross dimensional measurements.Oval Pools
When this occurs on oval pools, it generally occurs if the two straight sides of the pool are not considered 'square'. Ie. they do not have equal cross dimensions and/or the ends of the pool are not a true half round. The pool may also be out of level causing the liner not to fit correctly.
Consult the manufactures installation instructions for proper cross dimensional measurements.
No. When a properly sized pool liner is first installed, it will not sit flat on the floor across the entire pool bottom. Additionally, the liner will not completely lay against the walls.Liners are designed to be slightly smaller than the pool so they will form fit into and against the pool as the pool is filled with water. Having a gap at the bottom of the pool wall of 3” – 4” is not uncommon. By engineering and design, liners are made to 'stretch' into place.
The optimum skimmer placement for an above ground pool is such that the prevailing wind blows toward the skimmer opening.
CaliMar filter systems come standard with a 9’ hose. This will allow for the filter system to sit between the skimmer and the pool return at a distance of about 3’ from the pool wall. It is possible to hard plumb the filter system in place using Schedule 40 rigid PVC piping. Depending upon the filter system size and when using Schedule 40 piping it is possible for the filter system to be placed upwards of 20’ away from the pool. All CaliMar above ground pools are matched with a filter system which is more than adequate for the gallons of water in the pool.
The Pool Frog Cycler Unit is installed next to the filter system. The Frog Cycler should be installed in the Return side of the pool filter. This is the line which would normally go from the multiport valve on the pool filter to the pool return in the pool side wall.
The Pool Frog can be installed in an elevated position, up in the air near the multi-port or can sit down on a concrete or paver base. Both types of installation are depicted below. The Pool Frog comes standard for elevated installation. Additional optional hose will be needed for base or ground installation.
It is not safe to leave an above ground pool empty. The wall frame structure of an above ground pool relies on the outward pressure of the water to keep the walls stable. Not having water in an assembled pool does not provide stability to the pool walls which can be severely damaged should there be an environmental event.
A pool filter should be back-washed or cleaned when the baseline filter pressures rises 7 – 10 psi higher than the baseline pressure gauge reading.
In areas where freezing temperatures occur it is recommended that the pool be winterized to help prevent freeze damage. There's no one specific way to winterize a pool. There are however, general principles for winterizing an above ground pool and filtration system.
Prior to doing any winterizing of the pool, the filter should be thoroughly back washed if it's a sand filter. Other filters should be dis assembled and cleaned.
Lower the water level in the pool to just below the skimmer. Remove the hose which connects to the bottom of the skimmer. This will allow any access rain water or snow melt to drain out of the bottom of the skimmer if it gets in the skimmer. Remove the hose which connect to the skimmer and drain it of all water.
Securely place an expandable rubber winterizing plug in the pool return on the inside of the pool wall. Remove the hose which connect to the pool wall return and drain it of all water.
Empty the pump basket and leave the lid off of the pump for now.
- If there is a multi-port valve on the pool filter, either rotate the valve position to winterize or rotate it clockwise to be 'between' two of the selections and release the handle. The handle will not sit down all the way, thus keeping the internal plate up off of the gasket in the valve. This will prevent the plate from sticking to the gasket when it is time to operate the filter in the Spring.
- Remove the drain cap or plug from the bottom of the filter tank and allow the water to drain out of the tank.
- Place the cap or plug you removed from the tank into the pump basket.
- Remove the drain plug(s) from the pump. Some pumps have two drain plugs on them. One in the very front bottom part of the pump and the other on the side bottom of the pump.
- Place the plug(s) removed from the pump into the pump basket.
- Drain any other equipment such as Pool Frog, Heater, Etc. of any water in them.
- Place any plugs or caps removed into the pump basket.
- Remove any chemical canisters which may be on the pool and discard of them as per manufactures instructions.
- It may be possible to also put the pool return directional fitting into the pump basket also. If it will not fit, then it can be placed in the skimmer basket.
By putting these items in a common place each year, finding them to put back in the Spring time should be rather quick and easy.
With the pool now ready for winter it is time to consider putting on a winter cover for the pool.
If the skimmer lid is not placed down inside the skimmer to cover the skimmer basket area, the suction side cleaner which uses the port in the front of the skimmer will not function properly. See the skimmer instructions for proper placement of the skimmer lid inside the skimmer to activate the suction port.
Instructions for Vacuuming with the CaliMar skimmers:
Empty the skimmer basket prior to vacuuming. Clean the filter following manufacturer's instructions.
- Stop pump. Assemble vacuum head, handle and hose (A good smooth bore 1-1/2" hose will give the best vacuuming results). Attach free end of hose to the double tapered end of vacuum adapter (13).
- Start pump. Hold the free end of the hose against the return fitting discharge. This will force air from the hose. When the bubbles cease to rise from the vacuum head, all the air is removed. (Fig. 5 and Fig. 6). Stop pump.
- Bend the vacuum port cover (12) to the down position. Insert the tapered end of the vacuum adaptor with hose attached into exposed opening using a twisting motion. (Fig. 7).
- The lid (2) performs two functions. In normal position, it covers the top of the filter. During vacuuming, this same lid becomes the sealing plate for the vacuuming. Be sure pump is "OFF". Remove the lid, rotate it 90° and lower it inside (handle grip up) to rest above the basket. Make sure air is not trapped under the lid. Trapped air will cause the lid to rise.
- CAUTION: Never attempt to install the lid in the vacuuming position while your pump is running. The lid may suddenly be drawn down into position due to the pump's high suction action. You may injure your hands or fingers.
- With the lid in place, start pump and operate vacuum over pool floor.
- When finished vacuuming, stop pump. Remove the vacuum hose with vacuum adapter attached from the pool. Clean the skimmer basket and your filter. Move the lid to the original position on top of the skimmer. Start pump to resume normal skimmer operation.
No. the filter systems are designed to withstand the elements from shine, rain to snow. If you are expecting freezing temperatures, consider self-winterizing or having your pool winterized. Part of this process is draining all of the filter system equipment of all water and leaving the drain plugs removed during the off-season.
In order to make the plugs/caps easy to find in the spring, we suggest putting them in the pump basket with the lid securely closed.
The filter system should run at a minimum to turn the water gallons over at least 2 – 3 times per day. Consult your pump and filter hydraulic flow rates to determine the time needed.
What information do I need to provide to get parts for my above ground pool?
- Customer Contact Information including delivery zip code
- Manufacturer of pool
- Model of pool
- Size of pool
- Pool Wall Height
- Quantity and best possible description of what is needed
Email to: [email protected]
What if I don't know any of that information?
- Provide as much of the information from above
- Send us a picture of the pool wall showing only 2 of the vertical uprights on the pool
Email to: [email protected]
If you are looking for a top rail (#1 Below) it is always beneficial if we can also get the longest length of the top rail to the nearest 1/8th inch.You can use the image below to help identify the various pool parts.
Active use of a solar blanket for the surface of the pool in conjunction with a pool heater can extend the swim season 4 – 6 weeks on each side of the swim season.
Though there is not an industry specific way to find a leak in a vinyl liner pool there are a few things which you can do. What we’re going to discuss are not the only ways to find the leak but a few simpler ones. Water Level Check:
Turn the pump off and let the water level drop down. The leak will be somewhere close to the water edge. The water level should not ever be allowed to drop down below the return fitting in the wall. Look for any holes in the liner material or seams which may have separated in the liner.In the event the water stops near or at the edge of or somewhere along the area of one of the pool fittings which passes through the liner; it is likely the leak is there. Check all areas of the liner along the water level for holes, punctures or seam separations. If none are found, fill the pool to its normal water level, then follow the Dye Testing steps below.
Dye Testing: (Do this with the pool at its normal full level of water.)
This will require some sort of liquid colored dye that is highly visible against the liner. Generally food coloring in a squeezable bottle will work. Also, Phenol Red from a water chemical test kit will work but it will end up ruining the Phenol Red so it will have to be replaced for future water testing. Purchase leak detection dye.
Turn the pump off. Allow the water to stop moving by keeping the water undisturbed for about 30 minutes. This is usually done inside the pool. When entering the pool move slowly so as not to create a large disturbance and water movement.
First test around all of the connection fittings in the pool, such as skimmer and return face-plates. On the inside part of the face-plates the edge of the liner should be visible. When in the water, hold the dye bottle upside down. When testing hold the tip of the dye bottle approximately ¼” - ½” away from the area being bested.
- At the skimmer. Test the ‘joint’ where the face-plate ‘sandwiches’ the liner. Gently squirt some of the dye over the joint area. If there is a leak, the dye will be visible drawn to that location. Do not squirt too much dye as it will be too diffused in the water to tell if it is in fact leaking. Test the entire seam where the liner and gasket are sandwiched by the face plate.
- Do the same around the return and any other fittings which pass through the liner.
- There are seams on the wall and floor of the liner. Check along all seams for areas which there may be a leak. In areas which may look like a leak, perform the dye test.
This Videos below show the application of a dye material and it being drawn into a leak:
Once the leak is located, most of them can be easily patched underwater with an underwater vinyl liner patch kit.
