A common question asked is, “Can above ground pools stay up year round?” And although the easy answer is that “Yes, they can,” whether you want to leave them up year-round really depends on the type of pool you have. Dismantling some above ground pools for the winter may be more hassle than it's worth.
Pools very rarely need to be drained completely. If you have a vinyl-lined above-ground pool, leaving it full for the winter will protect the vinyl liner from shrinkage and other damage. Since these pools are above ground level, keeping them full ensures that the wind will not damage the walls, liner, or frame.
Many steel-frame pools are semipermanent, in that they're laborious to take down and difficult to store. Consequently, steel-frame models work for those who plan to leave the pool in place year-round, or at least for the duration of the swimming season.
In warmer climates, Intex advises to keep your pool up, if you prefer. However, you must winterize the pool when keeping it full throughout the winter. If your area maintains tropical climates all year long, you may not need to winterize your pool at all, especially if you use your pool on a regular basis.
Above Ground Pool Durability
It's one of the most frequently asked questions from homeowners: “How long do above ground pools last?” While less costly than inground pools, they also have shorter lifespans, typically lasting anywhere from 7 to 15 years depending on factors like maintenance and construction quality.
Use a thick liner. Maintain your pool by cleaning it once a week. Cover it during bad weather and use a high-quality filter to make your liner last as long as your pool structure. And most of all, enjoy your pool.
Generally, pool water needs to be replaced once every five to seven years. This should be done during mild weather so that your pool surface is not at risk from strong sunlight and heat. Your pool maintenance company can recommend when it is time to drain your pool.
This is why the Intex pools manufacturer strongly recommends draining and disassembling your pool if the temperatures in your area drop to or below 41°F (5°C). And so do we. We don't want your cozy winter by the fire to be ruined by a messy pool collapse.
If possible, store at room temperature, and keep it away from any nesting mice, birds, or other critters that may chew holes through the vinyl. A large, clean, new trash can placed in the basement or garage may be an ideal location for winter storage.
An above-ground pool is, by far, the least expensive option for a pool. Kids love them, and built-in fencing and locking gate options make them safe. The main disadvantage of an above-ground pool is that it generally adds no value to your home.
Typically, a long, rectangular pool is based for laps since it lets you swim in a straight line. A rounded pool would be better for lounging and for recreational swims. These pools are usually smaller and do not have a straight path for swimming laps.
Above-Ground pools are available in a variety of sizes, in Round and Oval shapes. Depths range from 48" to 54".
When to Winterize Your Above Ground Pool
Depending on where you live, your closing times will vary. But as a rule, if temperatures typically drop, and stay, below 65°F (18°C) during the off season, wait until the temperature falls below that point to close.
The month of March is the BEST time to open your swimming pool. If you wait any longer for the temperature to rise higher than 65 degrees algae and other organics will start to grow.
Your Pool Could Crack
Surface cracks are very common in pools that don't get winterized. Harsh conditions can lead to cracks as well as any water that is left inside the pool. That water will likely freeze and could lead to surface cracks.
But did you know there's an easy way to reuse the water that's already in the pool? All you have to do is recycle it! Meet reverse osmosis — the best way to purify your swimming pool water. It works by pushing the existing water through semipermeable membranes that hold off any impurities, particles, and buildup.
Maintenance is critical when it comes to the quality of your pool water. Well maintained pool water can last up to 5, maybe even seven years before you need to replace it. This means weekly cleaning, functional filters, and checking ph levels every day.
When it comes to above ground pools, there is no set lifespan. But generally, they do not last as long as inground pools. However, that doesn't mean they're not worth investing in. Above ground pools can last between 10 to 20 years with proper care and maintenance.