Ordering a pool really soon - need some help

[Jacob99]

Here's what I plan to buy. Please let me know what I'm missing.

30' Tahitian Pool Only (made by Wilbar) http://www.royalswimmingpools.com/Me...de=Tahitian-30

25GA Beaded Liner

I'm thinking of just getting the bundled skimmer/return that usually comes with the pool, but should I opt for a different type?

Hayward S244T 300# Sand Filter

Hayward Powerflow Matrix 1hp 2 speed pump SP15922S

Grand total comes out to about $3,800. What else would I need to get this pool up and running. I'm thinking about $1,000 in electrical, and another $750ish in delivered pool water (can't use hose). Then $1,000-$1,500 for installation. Am I missing anything?

[Watermom]

You may want some type of pad under the floor of the liner like Happy Bottom or a cove around the bottom perimeter. You can do a search to see what they are. Also, a ladder.

[Jacob99]

Will look into that thanks. Also, anyone have recommendations on a ladder? I have the option of Evolution A Frame which seems pretty popular but the reviews on it are terrible.

Besides that, do I have everything else covered? How about a solar cover. From what I hear most people who get them use them a few times then roll them up and leave them in the shed the rest of the summer.

[BigDave]

I love my solar cover. I find it most useful in keeping the heat in the pool overnight. It is a pain but my pool is in shade most of the day and would be unswimmable without the blanket and, of course, the solar panels.

[Jacob99]

I do get shade there in the afternoon, I'll look into one. Any recommendations?

How about vacuums? I assume I'll need one...what's a good one?

[Watermom]

You need a telescoping pole and a net. You will definitely need a vacuum of some sort. You can either buy an automatic one of some type of just a manual vac that you attach to the pole. You'll need a pool hose.

One very important thing you will definitely need that hasn't been mentioned is a good test kit. The only one we recommend is the Taylor K-2006 or 2006C (better value). You can order it through the Amazon link in my signature. Only buy if the seller listed is Amato Industries. Some other sellers are substituting the K-2005 which is not the one you want.

[BigDave]

For the solar cover, I'd look for one that comes cut to size and shape - some are delivered rectangular and you cut it yourself. I don't know if heavier plastic really makes them last longer, any thermal cover will suffer wear and tear and need to be replaced every so often. Color - I don't know if any color works better or worse, I bought blue because water is blue. 30' is pretty big, you may want to cut it into smaller pieces to facilitate handling.

Another thing to get - floaty toys!

Definitely get the K-2006. Much eaiser to read then other kits I've owned.

[Jacob99]

I'm looking at a Magniclear solar cover through the same site selling the pool. It's clear, and comes cut to size. I've heard over and over that it's a pain to put on and off, but I will use it and drag the wife or kids outside to help me. I figure If I actually get in the pool, it would be easier...?

Also, what do I need as far as winterization stuff goes. Obviously won't need that for a few months, but I prefer to buy everything at the same time. I guess these newer pools don't have to be drained below the skimmer anymore, there's skimmer covers, etc. How about covers/clips/wall bags, etc? There's mesh or scrim covers, 8 year and 20year and all kinds of different ones. Air pillows? How many do I need and what size? Plugs? What do I do with my filter and pump in the winter? Too many options out there.....

[Watermom]

Some of us don't even bother with covering the pool in the winter. It is a big hassle.

With a big solar cover, it is hard to manage as all one piece. I recently bought something called a Solar Roller Cover Stick. (google it) I just got it but haven't even opened the box yet. I have a thread in the AG pool section called Watermom's New Pool Adventure. After I try this thing out, I'll report back in that thread how it works.

[BigDave]

I like the looks of the solar cover stick and if WaterMom's experience is positive, I'll be buying one as well.