Summer Waves Elite 18ft x 48in Metal Frame Above Ground Pool Set w/ Filter Pump
- Get ready to have the coolest backyard on the block, because when you choose the Summer Waves Elite 18-Foot Frame Pool Set with Filter Pump, everyone and their uncle will want to show up at your doorstep for a pool party. This pool set has everything you need to set up and maintain your pool so you spend more time chilling in the water and less time buying accessories and supplies. It comes with a filter pump, pool cover, ladder, ground cloth, and deluxe maintenance kit. The whole thing can set up in as little as 60 minutes, and with its durable steel and PVC design, it handles up to 6,600 gallons of water and as much fun as you can throw at it. Put on your bathing suit and sunscreen, because when you choose the Summer Waves Elite 18-Foot Frame Pool Set with Filter Pump, you might just want to live by the poolside all summer long.
$688.51
Summer Waves Elite Frame Pool 18′ x 48″ Gray
- Features:
- Metal Frame; 3 ply Toughmesh; Wicker Print
- Details:
- Transform your backyard into a summer oasis with the Summer Waves 18′ x 48″ Elite Frame Pool. This durable pool, featuring a sturdy metal frame and 3-ply Toughmesh construction, ensures long-lasting enjoyment for you and your family. The elegant gray color and stylish wicker print design seamlessly blend with any outdoor decor, providing both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Perfect for cooling off during hot summer days, this pool offers ample space for swimming and relaxation. Dive into endless fun and create lasting memories with this exceptional addition to your outdoor living space.
$600.00
Summer Waves Elite 18ft x 48in Above Ground Frame Swimming Pool Set w/ Pump
- Spend the hot summer cooling off by your Summer Waves Elite 18 Foot Above Ground Frame Pool. This complete pool kit has everything you need to set up and maintain your pool so you spend more time chilling in the water and less time buying accessories and supplies. It comes with a Model SFX1500 SkimmerPlus filter pump, pool cover, ladder, ground cloth, and deluxe maintenance kit. The whole thing can set up in as little as 60 minutes, and with its durable steel and PVC design, it handles up to 6,600 gallons of water and endures as much fun as you can throw at it. Put on your bathing suit and sunscreen, because when you choose the Summer Waves Elite 18-Foot Frame Pool, you might just want to live by the poolside all summer long.
$999.99
Everything You Need to Know Before Taking the Plunge Into Pool Ownership
As soon as the weather starts warming up, I start daydreaming about lounging poolside with an icy beverage in hand. There’s nothing that says “summer” quite like having your own backyard pool. I’ve been tempted for years to get one, but always held off due to concerns about maintenance and costs. However, after much research, I finally took the plunge this year and bought a Summer Waves 18 x 48 pool!
In this blog, I’ll share my experiences with purchasing, setting up, and maintaining this model so you can determine if it’s the right pool for your backyard too. I’ll provide tips on installation, water filling, cleaning, accessories, repairs, winterizing, and more. I wish I had access to all this information before I bought my pool—it would have saved me time and frustration. Hopefully you’ll find it helpful during your pool buying journey. Let’s dive in!
Choosing the Right Size Pool
The first decision I had to make was what size pool would work best for my yard. I have a moderate amount of space to work with, so I opted for the 18 x 48 size. Here are some benefits of this model:
- Accommodates 6-8 people comfortably for swimming and lounging
- Provides ample room for pool games like volleyball
- Fits nicely into a standard suburban backyard
- Offers a decent swimming area without occupying the entire yard
The 18 x 48 footprint also allows you to add fun features like waterfalls or rock formations along the pool edges to enhance the landscaping. For my needs, this was the perfect size—not too big, not too small. Make sure to measure your yard carefully to ensure the pool dimensions you choose will fit appropriately.
Pool Installation: Tools and Equipment Needed
Once I settled on the Summer Waves model, I ordered it and waited (im)patiently for delivery day. I knew installation would be a big task, so I made sure to have all the necessary tools and equipment on hand ahead of time. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shovels and rakes to level the ground
- Wheel barrow for moving dirt
- Tape measure and string to outline the pool area
- Leveling tools like a transit to ensure an even surface
- Sand to create a smooth foundation
- Patio pavers or bricks to make a patio around the pool
- An above ground pool ladder for entering and exiting the water
- Skimmer and filter pump for water circulation and cleaning
- Chlorine and other water chemicals for sanitization
- Pool vacuums, brushes, and skimmers for cleaning
- Submersible pool lights for nighttime ambiance (optional)
Having all these items on hand ahead of time prevented delay during the installation process. Don’t underestimate the number of trips you’ll be making back and forth to the hardware store!
Water Volume: How Much Does a Summer Waves 18 x 48 Pool Hold?
Once the physical pool structure was assembled per the instructions (which was admittedly a tedious process), it was time for my favorite part—filling it with water!
An important calculation to make is determining how much water volume your pool holds. The dimensions of the Summer Waves 18 x 48 pool allow it to hold approximately 13,104 gallons when filled to 90% capacity.
That’s a significant amount of water, which translates to higher bills if you’re filling it from your home hose. I recommend using a water truck for the initial fill. Just make sure to arrange delivery early so the pool can be filled in one day, allowing adequate time for the water to balance and heat up. There’s nothing worse than an unfinished pool taunting you on a hot day!
Keeping Water Clean and Clear
One of my biggest concerns about pool ownership was keeping the water clean, clear, and chemically balanced. Luckily, with a good filter system and regular maintenance, it’s easy to achieve sparkling summer pool water. Here are my top tips:
- Run your filtration system daily for 8-12 hours, especially in peak summer heat
- Skim debris from the surface frequently
- Brush pool walls and floor weekly to prevent algae growth
- Test and adjust chemical levels regularly
- Shock the pool weekly to maintain proper chlorine levels
- Check and clean the filter monthly for maximum effectiveness
- Drain and replace 30% of water every 2 months
The key is establishing a consistent maintenance routine and not skipping steps. It only takes a few days of lapsed care for algae and cloudiness to appear. Stay vigilant!
Must-Have Pool Accessories
Every pool needs some key accessories to maximize enjoyment. Here are my must-haves:
- Floating chlorine dispenser: Slowly distributes chlorine tablets to sanitize the water
- Skimmer: Collects debris from the water surface
- Pool vacuum: Enables quick cleaning of leaves and dirt on the bottom
- Telescopic pole: Attaches to accessories for easy maneuvering
- Underwater light: Provides a gorgeous ambiance at night
- Solar cover: Reduces evaporation and heat loss when not in use
- Inflatables: Fun floats, noodles, and toys for games!
Don’t forget small but useful items like pool skimmers, test strips, nets, and storage bins too. Having the right accessories makes maintenance easy and ensures your pool is always ready for fun and relaxation!
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Despite your best efforts, issues can pop up from time to time with any pool. Here are some common problems and solutions for the Summer Waves model:
Cloudy Water: Add clarifier and shock treatment. Run filter 24 hours. This clears it up fast.
Green Algae: Shock thoroughly and scrub walls with chlorine. Add algaecide if needed.
Pump Not Working: Check fuse, power connections, and filter. Reset pump and check flow.
Leaking: Locate source of leak and patch with underwater sealant per instructions. Drain below leak if needed.
Rust Stains: Use a stain remover and scrub with steel brush. An acidic treatment may be needed for tough stains.
Reacting quickly when problems arise prevents small issues from becoming big headaches. And remember – the company’s customer service line is very helpful if you need troubleshooting advice!
Is a Saltwater System Right for this Pool?
Saltwater pools have grown in popularity for their soft feel and convenient maintenance. However, I would not recommend a full saltwater chlorinator for the Summer Waves 18 x 48 model. These systems are better suited for permanent in-ground pools. For my above ground pool, I’ve very happy with standard chlorine tablets and occasionally adding mineral salts to soften the water. The low salt content makes it gentle on skin and eyes without the high upfront cost of a full chlorinator.
Winterizing Tips to Extend Your Pool’s Lifespan
As much as I wish pool season could last year-round, winterizing the pool properly is essential for its longevity. Here are my top winter prep tips:
- Clean thoroughly: Vacuum, scrub, and shock before closing to prevent algae and stains.
- Drain water below skimmer: This prevents ice damage to pool components. Shut off power to pump.
- Disassemble filter and hoses: Store pieces that can crack from freezing temps.
- Use antifreeze: Pour into all return fittings and skimmer to avoid freeze damage.
- Seal with a cover: A good winter cover protects from elements and debris. Weigh cover edges down.
- Clean and dry frame: Ensuring the frame is dry prevents rust and deterioration.
Proper winterizing protects your investment so your pool is ready for action again next summer!
Overall Verdict After 1 Season
Now that I’ve owned the Summer Waves 18 x 48 pool for one full season, would I recommend it? My honest review is: Absolutely! For an above ground pool, the quality far exceeded my expectations. The installation process was straightforward, and it’s performed wonderfully all season with proper care. My only complaints are minor: the cartridge filter could be higher capacity, and the vinyl sides prone to creasing during installation.overall, those are easy issues to overcome. This pool has provided my family with countless hours of fun and memories. I’m already looking forward to next summer!
I hope these tips help you determine if the Summer Waves 18 x 48 pool is right for your backyard. With reasonable care and maintenance, it will provide years of splashing, swimming, and memories. Dive into summer with your own oasis! Just be sure to test the water before cannon-balling in.