Start Up Instructions for your New Above Ground Pool

[@PS0722]

Thank you so much!!! I bought a house with an above ground 30 x 15 and no idea on what to do or where to start!! All pool companies are booked until October (month and a hal f away) and it was becoming a mosquito paradise! Simple to follow instructions...thanks again!!!!

[@Pennsylvaniastrong]

OMG you saved my life :) I just got my first pool 33 x 18 oval , and had no clue (even though I read the directions 20 times ) of what to do to start it up.Now I feel Grt because I'm going to do it tomorrow and not screw it up .THANK YOU soooooo much !

[@chrismccallum3266]

This guy sounds like he's inside the pool pump :) thanks for the video!

[@eddieroman6786]

Thank you for the tip the pump is working fine...

[@meddig]

Awesome, great description and although I'm adding liquid chlorine for the initial setup, I think I'll do the same

[@mzindependent68]

What is this chemicals your using and what steps do i go buy

[@AronettaKent]

How much Chemicals go in a 18x33 pool above ground

[@jonathanloveland2410]

No advice for priming the pump? Does it just come full of water ready to be plugged in from the factory? So I have an empty sand filter and empty pump and I just power it on. Ok...

[@davidcoleman6995]

on an above ground pool the pump is below the water line (top). With valves open bleed the air off from the filter housing and you should prime it automatically.

[@abovegroundpros]

It is probably sucking air through the hose of the bug or the plate on the skimmer basket. If the pump basket chamber looks as though its got a bunch of air in it when the bug runs slowly, then that is your problem. Check the hose connects for air leaks and fix it.

[@realjmerino]

I keep hearing not to connect your pump to an extension chord. Also, that pump and all electrical components are next to the pool. I have kids and the splash like crazy and the pump could get wet. I know it's obvious because it is a pool pump, but Im on the fence about this type of pump because, again, I keep hearing it would need it's own outlet and not extension chord. what do you recommend, it says it on the actual pump motor also. :(

[@AshleyKing-mw2mp]

When cleaning the basket should the pump be unplugged? Should it be on a certain setting? Would it just flood the ward when you take the top off the basket?

[@davidcoleman6995]

IF the basket doesn't have much in it you can remove it with the pump running. My pool gets partial shade from an Oak tree. After a storm it's plum full with leaves and debris. You are hard pressed to remove it running, so I turn it off to make it easier.

[@tinastoll9446]

I’ve always rotated my multiport handle counter clockwise. I was told it didn’t matter as long as I go in the same direction each time. Should I be going in a clockwise direction and if yes, have I damaged the multiport now?

[@tessafreeman316]

I just bought an INTEX 2100 GPH Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pool Pump for my 18' x 48" above ground pool and my pool is a Coleman and it doesn't have a skimmer basket so where would I put the chemicals in at? I have a chlorine floater for the tablet but not sure where I can put the other chemicals if I need to add them. Can Someone please help me?

[@abovegroundpros]

You will have to pre dissolve them in a bucket and then pour him straight into the water.

[@michaelvillarreal5167]

I have a hayward st144t when I put it on filter the water comes out of the waste connection side, any info on why it's doing that? Is something getting stuck or not working

[@abovegroundpros]

It sounds like something is piped backwards

[@leon-fu1rr]

Very good information

[@shonamagouyrksaffold4109]

Why doesn't mine have the strainer pump? I am so confused because the paper tape telling where everything is located had been rubbed off,,Ive never used a sand filter pump before

[@angelawilliamson2068]

Thank you!

[@flex_007]

Great tips. 👍

[@amandaposey3974]

My water will not go back into the pool through the return hose. It just goes out the backwash hose and when that slows down it still doesn't go back into the pool

[@abovegroundpros]

+Amanda Posey sounds like your dresser was installed backwards or your spider gasket is shot. May want to call a pool guy to take a look at it

[@amandaposey3974]

Is it possible for a gasket to be bad on a brand new filter?

[@abovegroundpros]

+Amanda Posey might want to contactbwhonyou bought it from. Sounds like there is a defect.

[@ninawade3055]

Thank You for the information video

[@SuperChadwicktron]

Very detailed video. Thank you

[@cruekid69]

Hi! We just moved into a different house over the winter that came with an above ground pool. Over the winter the pump, salt chlorinator, and other parts have been stored in the basement. I'm trying to get started for the spring, and I'm very lost. I don't know where to begin hooking everything up. I have located the water heater, the filter, the pump and chorinator. Help!

[@abovegroundpros]

+Glen Z i would recommend having a pool guy come out and hook it all up for you this time and then you will know for future reference.

[@glenzee8437]

Do you think if I sent you some pictures to show you what I'm dealing with you'd be able to steer me in the right direction? We move to a small town outside the big city, and I'm worried it would cost an arm and a leg to get someone to come out.

[@lisadunnashcraft1858]

Can you just buy the top value to the sand filte

[@abovegroundpros]

Yes

[@lisadunnashcraft1858]

Thank you.

[@KalelMares]

This tutorial is the best, thanks

[@Kjmummy06]

What do i do if while running my aqua bug with my hayward sand filter , why does it keep losing suction {I believe}, when i first turn on the filter it has excellent strong pressure flow and the bug moves well then within a few minutes it pressure slows down and the aqua bug stops moving. Ive tried backwashing for a few minutes and then rinse and then back to filter. Is it possible for air to get into the tank from the backwash output ?

[@mysterioflik4410]

i have a bug and im having the same problem

[@greggambrel6988]

How often do you need to clean out your sand filter

[@abovegroundpros]

+Greg Gambrel i like once a week

[@javierarroyo4790]

Do u need to backwash iffff is the first time using the filter and you just add sand and everything is basically from day one?

[@abovegroundpros]

Yes

[@alexaharper9397]

Do you need to backwash and rinse your sand filter pump if it is brand new?

[@abovegroundpros]

I would yes.

[@alexaharper9397]

Above Ground Pros thanks so much for your help

[@johne5563]

I would recommend you not backwash brand new pool sand. Let it run for a short time and then backwash to prevent clogging.

[@debbief9734]

Does the site jar suppose to have water in it at all times or only when you backwash and rinse? My site jar does not have water in it unless I backwash and when I rinse. When I put it back onto filter it stays full for awhile then disappears. Do I have a problem with the sand filter if so how can I remedy this? I asked the pool company about this but the guy said don't worry about it.

[@abovegroundpros]

It will only be full of water during back washing and rinse

[@andrewousley1199]

I'm installing my first aboveground pool and I just want to see how to install the pump and filter. Let me know if there's a quick way.

[@abovegroundpros]

Unfortunately I don't have a video for that but it will be in the instructions of the filter and pump that you buy

[@JU-dk2we]

What is your take on cartridge filters?

[@abovegroundpros]

Some of the cartridge filters they make nowadays that only have to be cleaned a few times a year are pretty good. I've always been a sand filter man and still am. The biggest problem I've seen with cartridge filters is if your pool ever turns green the cartridge clogs up so quickly that it creates a tremendous amount of work to try to clear the pool up.

[@mrphloid3555]

Are you not just plugging in a 12g extension cord into a standard outlet that's wired with 14g?

[@holleytoosse]

Pretty much all receptacles . S

[@davidfrisch5538]

In the beginning you say to clean the pump out , by taking off the top of the pump , how do you keep water from shooting out and over flowing (pump off) of course

[@abovegroundpros]

+David Frisch you would either have to plug off the skimmer and the return holes so water doesn't pour out but I like to install shut-off valves on the skimmer side and the return side for this purpose.

[@eveyneller7302]

I would love to install a couple of shut-off valves on my pool but I don't know what to order. Could someone please tell me what to order. I have a 16x48 Summer Waves Elite above ground pool. Thank you

[@shelbycharrier8325]

Is the order that you added the chemicals in the video the way that you suggest it to be done, or does it matter? I’m just having a hard time understanding which levels to adjust first in the fresh water. We are about to set up our brand new 30’ round and I’m trying to learn as much as possible.

[@abovegroundpros]

It doesn't really matter what order as long as you eventually get them all in the pool water

[@brittash198]

Written on the skimmer basket lid it says not to poor chemicals directly into skimmer....are all chemicals safe to pour in the skimmer like you suggest...Thanks

[@abovegroundpros]

That's because you can't do this with all types of filters, only sand filters.

[@brittash198]

awesome thanks

[@oliviasnell3694]

i work at dover pools and the only chemical you want to put in your skimmer is stabilizer.

[@jasonkovach7213]

Can you add shock directly to the pool skimmer with a sand filter? I have read that it can damage the pump.

[@abovegroundpros]

Yes you can.

[@xelnjare3945]

Should the chlorinator go after the filter? My installer put it in between the pump and the filter... should I have him fix it?

[@xelnjare3945]

Nevermind, guess I'll be calling my installer and getting a visit...

[@abovegroundpros]

It is supposed to go after the filter

[@olayino]

No extensión cord! I’m licensed electrician

[@gutzman0]

If I have a 7in 1 chemical do I still put that in the skimmer?

[@abovegroundpros]

If you have a sand filter then yes you can.

[@vbee7365]

Just got a used Coleman pool it doesn’t have a skimmer . Neither do I have the chlorine filter

[@ruthpelcastre2482]

Tremendously helpful. What was the first chemical poured in & how do I know amounts to pour of each item please?

[@abovegroundpros]

+Isabel Pelcastre alkalinity and the amount totally depends on your pool size and what your water tests

[@UGotHookah]

Sorry assuming that I guess everyone that has their chemicals knows how much to pour in cuz that's something people should really know you overpower under poor it's too much I'm by no mean a professional but I've been hearing it all depends on how big your pool is and how much gallons of water in your pool holds find that out then you can find out how much to put of each cuz like I said if you put way too much it will definitely mess the water up way too little you'll definitely have problems I don't want to have either one

[@ksmithkatcarving]

would you please clarify what the name of the first chemical is and how much to add, thank you

[@abovegroundpros]

Alkalinity Increaser (also know as Sodium Bicarbonate) (Baking Soda). How much will depend upon pool size.

[@ksmithkatcarving]

I found that even pouring chlorine in the pool filter it raised the pressure on my pump and slowed circulation, , so i backwash a little them it went back to normal , i would suggest to the audience to add to bucket of water and dissolve then add to skimmer

[@SuperCyril2]

I always dissolve my chems in a bucket first.

[@kathydouglas6593]

Is it possible to put install the function gage on wrong? Mines filtering on backwash and vice versa. None of the settings are doing what they say. Help please

[@abovegroundpros]

Yes it is it sounds like you have the inner section on backwards

[@woofy548]

We have a 'recycle' setting on our sand trap tank. What does that mean?

[@abovegroundpros]

Water goes from the pump straight back into the pool and never goes through the sand filter. You'll probably never use it.

[@stephanieoliver9454]

My filter is spitting water every time I turn on the pump. How do I fix this? - it’s hooked up properly .

[@abovegroundpros]

Not sure what you mean by "spitting water"?

[@aprilnewsome5246]

I have a DE (earth filter), have you done any videos on those type of filters and how to clean them/maintain them? I love your videos, they are very informative. We are new to pool ownership, so every bit of professional advice helps. Thank you.

[@abovegroundpros]

Unfortunately I do not have any videos on the DE filter but you basically backwash it just like a sand filter and then when you turn the pump back on you pour in your diatomaceous earth powder.

[@UGotHookah]

When cleaning out all my sand the old sand I used a shop vac am I supposed to get all the sand out before putting the new sand in

[@Chichi441544]

My pool keeps leaking water from the back was and loses pressure after a while what can I do to fix this

[@abovegroundpros]

Sounds like your spider gasket or handle spring is bad.

[@LivingJudyStyle]

We have a small Summer Waves pool. 15'x48". We just upgraded to an Intex sand system. The pump has a GFCI on the end, we need to use an extension cord to reach the outlet on the house. Is it safe as long as the outlet it's plugged into is also a GFCI? And is it safe to swim while the pump is running?

[@abovegroundpros]

Yes on both

[@LivingJudyStyle]

@@abovegroundpros sorry for all the questions... We have 2-3 frogs that have decided for the last two years that they love our pool. They tend to get in the little " pockets" where the metal pieces go into the liner. What could I place in the openings to keep the frogs out? I know they won't hurt me, but they make me hurt myself! Haha! Thank you for your time!!

[@abovegroundpros]

I don't really have any direct answer for that you might just have to get creative

[@musiconocedor10]

i got the same filter with new sand in it but when i turn it on it pumps but i dont see the water moving in the small crystal container and the gauge is allways on cero plase help

[@abovegroundpros]

+musiconocedor10 no water will move through the glass container except when you backwash if I'm understanding you correctly. And if water is pouring back into the pool when your pump runs and the gauge says 0 then your gauge is broken.

[@musiconocedor10]

Above Ground Pros thank you veri much

[@eveyneller7302]

We just hooked up a new summer waves sand pump Saturday ( today is Wedensday May 7th) and I went out to check on it and the water in the pool because the water has been cloudy and the pump had cut off. There is no timer and the gauge wasn't working. I don't know what to do to get it started back up. We are getting a larger pool next year so I don't want to buy another pump because the new pool will come with a pump. Could someone please tell me what I can do to solve this problem?

[@eveyneller7302]

My filter always stayed on zero to. But I don't have a leaf basket hooked to the pump so trash would get in the opening of the pump and I would have to disconnect the hose from the pump and clean out the trash and put the hose back on. The pressure on my gage would immediately go up.

[@stephaniefritchley9022]

Hi, we're just about to install an above ground pool here at our home in France. There is no information supplied with the pool about using chemicals, filter etc. How soon, after first filling the pool with water, do we need to add chemicals and run the filter? Thanks

[@abovegroundpros]

As soon as possible.

[@stephaniefritchley9022]

Thank you for getting back to me. Hope you don't mind if I ask another question - its so hard to get the information we need here. My poor husband has just been trying to build the pool today, only to find that the liner is 40cm (about 1' 4") shorter than the pool. All the external dimensions are within about 1/2 inch of being absolutely accurate. Is it normal for a liner to be that much shorter? We can't get it to fit the pool. Thanks again for the help.

[@tammyfaff]

Stephanie Fritchley Go to troublefreepool.com for any pool help, including saving a ton of money on chemicals. Wonderful help!

[@Susan-yc7ij]

Chad why am I not seeing any water spin around in my glass tube on my Hayward pump when filtering? Whats the cause?

[@abovegroundpros]

It sounds like you have air in your pump. Or something is blocking water from your skimmer to your pump. I would check out the skimmer and if it's all good then open up the lid of your pump basket so it can fill with water and try again.

[@Gillespie3401]

Both of my manuals for my pump and my sand filter say do not add chemicals in front if skimmer because undulated chemicals can damage equipment and void warranty.

[@abovegroundpros]

Gillespie3401 I've done it that way for years and years in mine and my customer's pool and have never had any issues what-so-ever. You can decide how you feel comfortable with doing it.

[@DJWONTONho]

I would use the CIRCULATE method to get chemicals into the pool otherwise I would just put it directly into the pool.

[@nyccrcsx]

I noticed sand in the clear glass and also sand on ground not a lot but enough to notice it

[@greekgh0st]

thank you for the video

[@richlininger4349]

what is the longest extension cord I can run if it's at least 12 ga.

[@abovegroundpros]

+Rich Lininger 100 ft

[@sshankins]

What was the first chemical you put in? On my sand filter I don't have a clear bubble so I don't know when my water is clear.

[@abovegroundpros]

+Syl Hankins alkalinity

[@sshankins]

Above Ground Pros how long should I run the backwash to clean the sand filter from last year

[@abovegroundpros]

+Syl Hankins until the water runs clear

[@sshankins]

Above Ground Pros thanks

[@brayster42]

I don't see a ground wire coming out of the pump. Is that not necessary?

[@abovegroundpros]

Some counties require it and some do not.

[@brayster42]

I thought it was for preventing electrical shock with all the water around. I will take your word, though, as I don't hear too many stories about that happening.

[@abovegroundpros]

It is for grounding the electrical system (taking any excess electricity into the ground) but the pump has a ground on the plug in, so most people don't do it, but some counties require it. If you are using a ionizer or salt system then you HAVE to ground it.

[@brayster42]

I'm glad you told me this because I don't want to go through the hassle of setting that up. I saw another video from someone who was required to and they said that was the hardest part of the entire pool install.

[@margiebowser1397]

Pentair sanddollar filter installation

[@vbee7365]

What if you don’t have a skimmer

[@abovegroundpros]

You'll have to dissolve the chemicals and pour it in the pool

[@Cheto509]

what if you don't have a skimmer

[@abovegroundpros]

+Aniceto Sanchez you'll have to dissolve the chemicals in a bucket and pour it in the pool

[@richlininger4349]

ok thanks!

[@abbykarim1792]

my filter sends some.water out of the exhaust line when i.have it set on filter. how do I correct this

[@abovegroundpros]

Sounds like your spider gasket in the multi port head has bad. Its best to replace the inside of the filter head.

[@MrBarr62]

WTF I started my pump system up , following your instructions to start up on back wash? um now i ended with sand in the pool ! uhg ! should have done it like i have been

[@marcobravo1058]

tomorrow i can simming......😞

[@5layerinmybelly]

My pools green and idk wtf to do

[@davidcoleman6995]

Test your water at the pool store. Add the chemicals and wash the filter or backwash (depending what kind of filter you have) once a day until it's clear. However I didn't cover the pool last winter (central FL) and it was full of organic debris and I just couldn't get the green out. So I drained all 15000 gallons cleaned up and started fresh. Much easier.

[@5layerinmybelly]

@@davidcoleman6995 I fingered it out but thanks for the reply