Planning an AG pool

We are still in the considering/planning stages for an ABG pool. It's the 2nd year it's been discussed so we'll probably pull the trigger soon or decide to do a spring install next year. Two questions:

1) Does the end of the season bring discounts? If we wait a couple more months there won't be much swimming season left this year but if it would afford us some savings I might consider it.

2) Is the pool store package a good place to start? I'm trying to read as much as I can. I know there's a few components that are less expensive if I buy them on my own but for the bulk of it will I regret going with their filter/pump etc?

We're considering a 27' resin pool (resin because someday we want to add a SWCG). Package has a 2hp 2speed pump and 26" sand filter with it... I don't know the brands, can find out if it matters. Standard tools, etc. Seems no matter how I slice it I end up around the 5k mark installed.

I know that's not a lot of specifics! I'm going to keep reading and look at some pictures (once my membership is upgraded :-)) I've already learned a ton!

Hi BethyM,

Welcome to the forum!!

I'll let the equipment folks comment on your questions, but I will tell you that a 2 hp pump is probably going to be way too big for a 27' pool. It could be that you can save some money (or at least some headaches down the road) by going with a smaller pump.

You can search through the forums now, using the google search feature in my sig, although you may have to log out to see the results until Ben finishes your registration process. Also read everything you can at our sister site, Poolsolutions.com. There's a wealth of info at the forum and at that site...and we'll be happy to answer any questions that you come up with :)

Hi BethyM and Welcome to the Forum. I agree with Aylad. 2Hp pump is over 2x what I think you will really need.

Depending upon your location, end of the season will usually bring closeout sales and bargains. But those items can be what they couldn't sell to anyone else for a multitude of reasons. My advice is to know what you are shopping for and try not to settle for what's on sale. I would definetly look for a smaller Pump/Filter package.

FWIW, SWCG's work well in a Vinyl lined pool. $5k sounds a little pricey to me for 27' even with install. What part of the country are you located in? Post back with a break down of the costs by Pool, Filter, Labor etc. if you can and Brand names would surely help.

Thanks for the response... Here's the breakdown on the pool package

27' Opera (54" Resin)
25ml Mystri Gold Beaded Liner
Appropriate Sized Sand Filter (26") and 2 speed (2hp) pump -- Still need to ask about the brands on these.
Deluxe Smart Step Ladder System
Leaf Net
18" Pool Brush
Vacuum Hose and Head
Telescoping Maintenance Pole
Thermometer
Backwash Hose
Floating Chlorinator
Chemical Test Strips
5lb Poolife cleaning tablets
4lb Poolife Rapid shock
pH Up
pH Down
Alkalinity Increaser
Poolife Stabilizer and Conditioner
Poolife algae bomb 60
Winter Cover
Solar Cover
Patriot Automatic Pool Vacuum
Foam Coving Included
Package Price: $3999 + 8% sales tax Install: $975

Pentair IC20: $999.99 - will include the salt

So, 5k is the pool and another 1 if I want the salt unit now - I will likely not pay their price for the SWCG and order it online.

I'm located in a suburb of St. Louis. I'm certain we want to do the SWCG even if we don't do it initially so that's why I've limited my search to the resin pools. Most stores don't even want to sell you a pool the minute you mention putting the swcg on there. I appreciate any and all feedback!!! Thanks guys.

Are those things in the package all bundled together, or did you pick out those particular things? I can tell you that the pool strips will be a waste of money. pH up is the same thing as Borax, which is MUCH cheaper. Alkalinity Increaser is the same as baking soda, which is also MUCH cheaper than the pool store will sell it for. I don't know about the Poolife algae bomb, but if it's not polyquat, then that's also a waste of money. What is the chemical ingredient in the Poolife rapid shock and the Poolife cleaning tablets?

Also,, when Pooldoc and Mas985(and some of the other equipment gurus) comment, I think they're going to say that a 2 hp pump is way too big for this pool, unless you really upsize the filter.....

This is the package the store puts together - I kind of figured the pool chems were just extras... I already keep Borax on hand for ant bait and intend to use BBB in conjunction with the SWCG. I'll call and get info on the pump today as I know they are sometimes rated one way by marketing and another way by reality :-) Thanks for looking at it!

FWIW I would price out a Vinyl lined pool for comparison. I and many others are running a SWCG in a Vinyl lined AG pool with no issues. I'd love to see the comparison between the Resin and the Vinyl. The 2HP pump will be a waste of money, period.

I like the 26" filter but 2HP pump sounds too big. 2 speed is good. Get the specifics on the pump and filter so we can know what it really is. That wouls be a good price for that pool in my area. Consider the convenience of having the SWCG plumbed in and running without having to mess around with it yourself.

BigTallGuy: This is a Vinyl lined pool -- It has Resin top rails, bottom rail, and resin coated steel supports. Is that what you mean? Are you guys using them on pools with steel rails as well? It's hard for me to understand how such a low concentration of salt can be a problem but the warranty verbage sure does make me shy away from the steel rails.

BigDave: I got the specifics! As for the SWCG, I like the IC20 from ease of use and being plumbed right into the system. The hang on SWCG are less expensive, but I see myself hollerin at kids to leave it alone a lot too!

OK, Pump and Filter specs....

Manufacturer: Water Way
Pump: PM2201-6 -- 2hp 2speed pump
Filter: 522-5371-6MH -- 400lb 26" sand filter
Includes a Waterport 6 way multiport valve on top

Thoughts?? You guys are awesome! Thanks!

I don't seem to be able to find the exact filter but he did say it's the large black 'egg' shaped one - So I assume it's the oval and not the round one.

Apparently, I'm the first person to ask for model numbers for the equipment. :-S