Stress-Free AQUASTRONG Pool Setup Guide

Setting up a new pool can feel like a big task—especially if you're upgrading from a simple inflatable pool to something more advanced, like an above-ground AQUASTRONG pool. But don’t worry! The setup process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and a little help, you can get your pool up and running in no time, ready for all the fun of the summer.

1. Gather Your Pool Setup Supplies

Before you begin assembling your AQUASTRONG pool, it’s a good idea to make sure you have all the basic pool care supplies you’ll need to keep your pool in top condition all season long. These essentials include:

• Telescoping pole
• Skimmer net
• Pool vacuum
• Nylon-bristle pool brush
• Extra pool hoses
• Water testing strips or kit
• Chlorine and shock treatment
• Other pool chemicals for water balance

Tip: Always wear protective gear when handling chemicals. This includes goggles, gloves, long-sleeve shirts, and closed-toe shoes.

2. Inventory the Pool Parts

Before starting the assembly process, make sure all the parts for your pool are accounted for. Missing pieces—such as a support bar or connector—can make the assembly process frustrating and potentially cause issues once your pool is filled with water.

Lay everything out on a flat surface, like your lawn or patio. Compare the pieces with the instruction manual to make sure nothing is missing. If you find that something is missing, contact the manufacturer or check online for replacements before starting.

3. Find a Level Surface

One of the most important steps in setting up your AQUASTRONG pool is ensuring that the ground beneath it is perfectly level. An uneven surface can lead to water shifting to one side, which can put undue stress on the pool frame, potentially leading to structural issues.

To prepare the ground:

• Clear the area of any rocks, twigs, or debris that could damage the pool liner.
• Trim the grass down to the dirt using a weed trimmer.
• Level the ground by running a leveling board, like a 2 x 4, across the area. Use a level to ensure the surface is flat and doesn’t vary by more than 1–2 inches.
• Lay down a ground cloth or tarp to protect the pool from dirt, grass, and weeds while preventing damage to the liner.

Tip: Avoid setting up your pool on sand, as it can shift and cause the pool to lean, stressing the frame and legs.

4. Move and Unfold the Pool Liner

Once you’ve prepared the ground, it’s time to move and unfold the pool liner. It’s best to have a friend or family member help with this step to avoid accidentally tearing the liner.

As you unfold the liner, ensure the filter connection holes are facing the area where you plan to set up the filter pump and connect the hoses.

5. Build the Pool Frame

Setting up the frame is the next big step. If you’ve ever assembled furniture, you’ll find that building the pool frame is similar. While it’s possible to assemble the frame by yourself, having a friend to help will speed up the process and ensure the connections are secure.

Start by inserting the horizontal beams or poles into the pool liner sleeves. Then, connect the first pole to a T-joint. Continue this process all the way around the pool, ensuring that the T-joints don’t rest directly on the liner. When you reach the last T-joint, it may be a bit tricky, but a helping hand will make it much easier.

Finally, add the vertical support legs, ensuring that each leg is inserted into the liner with a secure leg cap.

6. Set Up the Filter Pump

Your AQUASTRONG pool filter pump is designed to be both a filter and a pump in one, making pool maintenance much easier. The setup process is quick and simple:

1. Place the filter pump on a flat surface at least 2 feet away from the pool.
2. Connect the hoses: Attach one hose to the upper connection on the filter pump, and the other to the lower connection.
3. Secure the hoses using hose clamps, tightening them with a screwdriver.
4. Check the connections to ensure everything is tight and secure.

Tip: Before turning on the filter pump, make sure to fill the pool first.

7. Adjust the Pool Liner and Frame

Once the pool is filling with water, take a few moments to adjust the liner and the frame. This is your last opportunity to ensure that everything is properly aligned.

• Smooth out the liner, especially at the bottom, to avoid wrinkles that could be uncomfortable for swimmers.
• Tighten the support beams and check that the top beams are level. You may notice that the walls and frame may lean slightly inward, which is normal. As the pool fills with water, the sides will gradually move outward and become fully supported.

8. Fill the Pool

Filling your pool can take a while, depending on the size of the pool and your water pressure. This process can take several hours, so it’s important to stay nearby and monitor the filling process.

• Don’t leave the pool unattended while it’s filling, especially in the early stages.
• Stop filling when the water reaches the fill line, which should be about 2 inches above the upper hose connection. Overfilling the pool can put unnecessary stress on the frame, which could lead to collapse.

9. Test and Run the Filter Pump

Once your pool is filled, it’s time to test the filter pump. Plug it into an electrical outlet and turn it on. Check to make sure that water is entering the filter, circulating through the system, and returning to the pool through the hoses. If everything looks good, you’re all set!

10. Balance the Water Chemistry

Before jumping into your new AQUASTRONG pool, it’s important to balance the water. Test the water chemistry and adjust the chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels as needed to keep the water clear and safe.