Step By Step Guide To Setting Up Your Bestway Pool For Optimal Enjoyment And Longevity

Installing a Bestway pool transforms your backyard into a personal retreat. These above-ground pools offer affordability, ease of installation, and reliable performance—when set up correctly. However, skipping steps or neglecting early details can lead to leaks, uneven wear, poor water quality, and shortened lifespan. A methodical approach ensures not only immediate enjoyment but long-term durability. From site selection to first-time chemical balancing, each phase matters.

1. Choosing the Right Location

The foundation of your Bestway pool determines its stability and safety. An unsuitable surface leads to shifting, tilting, and premature liner damage. Begin by identifying a flat, level area free from tree roots, sharp stones, and overhead obstructions like power lines or low-hanging branches.

Grass may seem ideal, but it compacts over time and retains moisture that attracts pests. Concrete pads are stable but costly. A better compromise is a layer of compacted sand topped with ground cloth—a solution endorsed by many pool installers.

Tip: Use a carpenter’s level and straight board to test ground evenness across the entire footprint before unboxing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Site Selection

Do	Don't
Select a level, well-drained area	Place near septic tanks or underground utilities
Clear debris, rocks, and roots	Install under trees (leaves increase maintenance)
Allow space for access and equipment	Use uneven or sloped ground without correction
Check local regulations on placement	Ignore wind exposure—high winds strain structure

2. Step-by-Step Assembly Process

Bestway pools come in various types—frame, inflatable ring, or metal-walled—but all follow a similar setup sequence. Rushing this stage risks misalignment and future failure. Follow these phases carefully.

1. Unpack and inventory: Lay out all parts and verify against the manual. Missing components should be reported immediately.
2. Prepare the base: Spread 1–2 inches of fine mason sand evenly. Compact lightly and level again. Place the included ground cloth or tarp over the sand.
3. Assemble the frame (if applicable): Connect frame poles according to color-coded instructions. Do not overtighten screws; hand-tight is sufficient.
4. Position the liner: Unfold the liner carefully inside the frame. Smooth it gently outward from the center to avoid wrinkles. Align drain and filter ports correctly.
5. Inflate the top ring (inflatable models): Use a dual-action pump to fully inflate the upper ring until firm. Avoid over-inflation in hot weather.
6. Begin filling: Start adding water slowly using a garden hose. As the pool fills, adjust the liner to prevent bunching. Do not stand inside during filling.
7. Complete structural setup: Once water reaches mid-wall, recheck frame alignment and tighten connectors if needed.

“Proper base preparation accounts for more than half of a pool’s long-term integrity.” — Mark Reynolds, Residential Pool Technician

3. Water Chemistry and Filtration Setup

Clean, balanced water isn’t just about clarity—it prevents algae, protects equipment, and ensures swimmer comfort. Your Bestway pool includes a filter pump, typically with cartridge-based filtration. Understanding how it works is essential.

Most Bestway pumps require priming and regular cleaning. Run the filter for at least 8–12 hours daily during peak season. Replace or rinse cartridges every 1–2 weeks depending on usage.

Initial Water Balancing Steps

• Test pH using strips or a liquid kit. Ideal range: 7.2–7.6.
• Adjust alkalinity first (target: 80–120 ppm) to stabilize pH.
• Add chlorine (if using) at 1–3 ppm. Non-chlorine options like bromine are suitable for sensitive skin.
• Shock the pool after heavy use or rainfall with an oxidizer.
• Use algaecide weekly as a preventive measure, especially in warm climates.

Tip: Always add chemicals to water—not water to chemicals—and disperse them around the pool’s perimeter.

4. Maintenance Checklist for Longevity

Daily neglect turns minor issues into major repairs. A simple routine keeps your pool safe and extends its life by years. Use this checklist weekly during active use.

Weekly Maintenance Checklist

• Skim surface debris with a net
• Check and clean filter cartridge
• Test water pH and chlorine levels
• Vacuum floor if necessary
• Inspect liner for punctures or stretching
• Wipe down ladder and frame connections
• Ensure pump is running without noise or leakage

Seasonal tasks matter too. At summer’s end, drain the pool using the bottom valve connected to a hose. Never reuse pool water on plants—chemicals can harm vegetation. Clean the liner thoroughly before deflation, allow it to dry completely, and store in a cool, dark place away from rodents.

5. Real-World Example: The Thompson Family Setup

The Thompsons in Austin, Texas, purchased a 15-foot Bestway Power Steel pool for their two children. Excited, they began assembly on a grassy patch near an oak tree. Within days, leaves clogged the skimmer, and uneven settling caused a slight tilt. After consulting a local pool supplier, they drained the pool, relocated it to a cleared patio area, and laid a 2-inch sand base with protective underlayment.

They installed a timer on the filter pump, began weekly testing with digital strips, and covered the pool when not in use. One year later, the pool remains leak-free, water stays consistently clear, and maintenance time has dropped by nearly 60%. Their key takeaway: “The extra effort in site prep saved us headaches later.”

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users make errors that compromise performance. Awareness prevents repeat issues.

• Over-inflating the top ring: Heat expands air. Inflate to firmness, not rigidity, especially in summer.
• Skipping the ground cloth: Tiny pebbles become pressure points that degrade the liner over time.
• Ignoring water balance: Low pH corrodes metal parts; high pH causes scaling and cloudy water.
• Draining improperly: Never let the pool sit empty. The liner can shrink or tear when dry and unsupported.
• Using abrasive cleaners: Household detergents strip protective coatings. Use only manufacturer-approved pool cleaners.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to set up a Bestway pool?

Most models take 1.5 to 3 hours with two people, assuming the site is prepped. Larger models or complex frames may take longer. Allow extra time for leveling and water filling, which can take 4–6 hours depending on hose pressure.

Can I leave my Bestway pool up year-round?

In mild climates with no freezing temperatures, yes—with proper winterization. In cold regions, freezing water expands and can rupture liners and fittings. Drain, clean, and store the pool before the first frost.

Why is my pool water turning green?

Green water indicates algae growth, usually due to insufficient filtration, low sanitizer levels, or poor circulation. Shock the water with chlorine or non-chlorine oxidizer, run the filter continuously for 24–48 hours, and scrub walls manually if needed. Prevent recurrence with consistent chemical management.

Conclusion: Enjoy More, Worry Less

A Bestway pool delivers lasting value when set up with care and maintained with consistency. The initial investment of time in site selection, precise assembly, and water management pays off in trouble-free seasons and extended product life. By following this guide, you’re not just installing a pool—you’re creating a safe, clean environment for family memories.

Take action today: inspect your current setup, gather your tools, and apply these steps before your next fill. Small habits—like covering the pool after use or testing water weekly—compound into significant benefits over time.

💬 Have a setup tip or challenge you overcame? Share your experience below and help fellow pool owners enjoy safer, cleaner swims!