A convenient advantage of above ground pools is that unlike in-ground pools, above ground pools can be disassembled and transported to a new location. However, there are several factors you need to keep in mind when moving an above ground pool to ensure that the pool doesn’t leak in its new location.
Above ground pools can be moved, but the pool liner normally needs to be replaced to prevent leaks in the new pool location. Above ground pools also need to be completely drained and disassembled prior to moving since the sides are too flimsy to be moved as a single unit.
Moving an above ground pool can be a challenge, but it’s much easier to accomplish if you know some tips and tricks to pull the transport off smoothly. Read on to learn more about moving an above ground pool and whether you can save your pool liner or not.
Factors to Consider in Moving an Above Ground Pool
Moving an above ground pool can be performed easily, but there are several things to consider, such as the following:
- The size of the pool (and the size of the pool’s new location)
- The condition of the above ground pool
- Whether or not the pool will be reinstalled in another location
When moving an above ground pool, you’ll want to ensure that you have adequate space in your new residence to reinstall the pool if you’re planning on keeping it.
How Hard Is It to Remove an Above Ground Pool?
The difficulty in removing an above ground pool depends on whether the pool is going to be reinstalled in a new location.
If the pool is going to be reinstalled, all of the parts of the pool will need to be carefully disassembled to prevent damage and to ensure that none of the parts are lost or damaged.
If the above ground pool is not going to be reinstalled, removing an above ground pool is a simpler process.
Since you don’t have to worry about the pool being damaged during disassembly and transport, it can be demolished and disposed of instead.
Here’s a video showing what’s involved with moving a pool:
Can You Save the Pool Liner When Moving a Pool?
One of the disadvantages of moving an above ground pool is that the pool liner in the pool will typically need to be replaced.
Above ground pool liners are meant to conform to the above ground pool during installation in a custom fit. Most pool liners are too worn, stretched, or damaged after use.
One method for trying to save an old above ground pool liner is to fill the new pool with hot water and pull the old pool liner into place by stretching it. Without hot water to loosen the plastic of the liner, this process is difficult to pull off for all but the most seasoned pool installers. (Source: homeguides.com)
Here’s a link to some Pool Accessories from Amazon and the highly recommended Sand Filter Pump to upgrade any above ground pool setup.
Steps for Moving an Above Ground Pool
The most important thing you need to know about moving an above ground pool is the basic steps involved in taking down and transporting the above ground pool to its new installation location.
Here are the steps to take in moving an above ground pool:
- Drain the pool and inspect the pool for damage. The pool liner is one of the pool parts most likely to be damaged and need replacement.
- Disassemble the pool. It’s a good idea to take pictures of the pool as it is disassembled to make it easier to reverse the process and put it back together in another location. Tracking the parts by labeling them and taking inventory can also help prevent pieces from going missing.
- Remove the pool uprights. Unscrew the top rail of the above ground pool before disconnecting the connector at the top of the upright.
- Roll up the pool wall. Be sure to roll up each section of the pool wall tightly to make the pool easier to transport.
- Clean pool equipment: If you’re going to be reusing your above ground pool in a new location, this is a good time to clean any associated pool equipment and check it for corrosion or damage. New parts can be ordered and replaced before the pool is reinstalled if necessary.
- Disconnect the pool filter system. If the above ground pool is using a sand filter, set the filter to the “winterize” option and remove the filter hoses, clamps, intake, and pool filter from the pool setup.
- Move and reinstall the above ground pool. Install the above ground pool in its new location on a smooth base in reverse order that it was disassembled.
Here’s a good video showing how to level the ground for an above ground pool:
The process of disassembling and transporting an above ground pool to a new location isn’t a difficult one, but it can be a much easier process if you have one or more helpers to help move larger or heavier pieces.
Do You Have to Drain an Above Ground Pool to Move It?
It is always necessary to drain an above ground pool before moving it.
Most above ground pools can contain over five thousand pounds of water when filled, and the collapsible sides of above ground pools can’t stand the shifting weight of a full pool in transport.
Considerations for Relocating an Above Ground Pool
There are a few things you should consider before moving your above ground pool to a new location. Here are some of the things to think about before you begin draining and disassembling your pool for relocation:
- New liner: In most cases, an above ground pool will need a new liner when it is reinstalled in a new location. This can cost several hundred or thousand dollars depending on the size of your pool. (Source: dolly.com)
- Smooth base: A previously installed above ground pool should be installed on a smooth, level base to prevent the pool from developing leaks when it is filled after reassembly.
- Buried obstacles: Ensure that the new location of the pool isn’t located over electrical lines, septic tank lines, and tree stumps.
- Away from trees: It’s a practical idea to install an above ground pool in an area that isn’t located under trees and other landscaping features that will drop debris into the pool, such as flower petals, leaves, and branches.
- Sun exposure: If your above ground pool doesn’t have a heater, it’s a good idea to relocate your pool to an area where it will get direct sunlight. This will allow the pool to warm naturally through the radiant heat of the sun.
- Check building codes: If you’re moving into a location with a homeowner’s association (HOA), there may be specific building codes that prevent the installation of an above ground pool. Make sure it’s legal in your area before reinstalling.
It’s always easier to plan ahead before you’ve moved your above ground pool than to suddenly hit an unexpected snag when you’re getting ready to reinstall it in a new location.
Here’s a link to some Pool Accessories from Amazon and the highly recommended Sand Filter Pump to upgrade any above ground pool setup.
Above Ground Pools Can Be Easy to Move with Preparation
A major advantage of above ground pools is that they can be moved to a new residence, but the process needs to be undertaken carefully to avoid damaging the pool in the process.
The costs of setting up the pool with a new liner and fresh pool chemicals also need to be considered.
As long as the steps listed above are performed, moving your above ground pool to a new location can be accomplished in less than a day!