This is a loaded question, because no swimming pool is truly “best”. What determines the best swimming pool for you depends on just that, you! Factors such as your budget, lifestyle and backyard layout can directly affect which pool you should invest in and will serve you to the fullest extent. We suggest starting with some research. Make phone calls and visit local swimming pool stores to explore their brands, models and current stock, comparing quality, prices and reputations.

To get started, visit your local All Seasons Pools & Spas showroom. Our experts can walk you through available models, prices and pool accessories.

You should always purchase your pool chemicals and products from a reputable swimming pool dealership. We recommend speaking with the sales associate during the initial pool purchase about the right chemicals for the job. Not all pools are the same, which is why an expert’s opinion is best, especially when they are knowledgeable in the brand that you own.

Most often, you should have the following chemicals and products on hand:
• Chlorine (liquid, tablets or granular)
• Stabilizers
• Oxidizers
• Algaecides
• Pool shock
• Test strips
• Water balancers
• Tile and vinyl cleaners
• Stain removers
• Filter cleaners
• Enzymes

There are many advantages to having an above-ground pool installed in your backyard. A pool can provide your backyard with a purpose. Landscape around your swimming pool with flower gardens and walkways, build a conjoining deck, set up an elaborate dining and leisure area, the choice is all yours!

Above-ground pools can provide a safe swimming area, especially for those with smaller children. Having it above the ground makes it increasingly difficult for someone to unknowingly trip and fall into the water, especially with additional safety precautions such as a gate or fence.

Are you thinking about buying a pool? Swimming pools can offer many benefits, including:

• Functional backyard space
• Improved property value
• More time spent with family and friends
• Low-impact and comfortable environment for exercise
• Recreation and entertainment capabilities
• Convenient and can be relocated
• Easy installation

You should have the following on hand to care for and make the most of your swimming pool installation:

ACCESSORIES, TOYS & GAMES
• Goggles
• Noodles
• Inflatables
• Life jackets
• Puddle jumpers
• Beach balls
• Rings
• Water guns
• Snorkels
• Flippers
• Pool stairs or ladder

MAINTENANCE & CLEANING
• Nets
• Vacuums, hoses & telescoping poles
• Algicides
• Shocks
• Sanitizers
• Salt water system
• Salt water products
• Skimmer nets
• Pool brushes
• Gloves and mitts

OPTIONAL: OUTDOOR FURNITURE
• Couches
• Foot rests
• Loungers
• Pillows
• Tables
• Umbrellas
• Rocking chairs
• Muskoka chairs
• Patio dining sets
• Outdoor carpets

Chemicals found in pool water, such as chlorine, are added in such low doses and diluted enough that they should not pose a threat to humans or animals. If your dog enjoys swimming in the pool, you should always verify with a veterinarian that it is safe for your furry friend to do so. While in the water, an adult should always be supervising to ensure that the dog isn’t drinking the water and that he or she doesn’t get too overtired. Take the dog out of the pool frequently and encourage them to take a break and relax, while drinking plenty of water and having a snack.

Your lifestyle can have a direct impact on the choice between a pool and a hot tub. Consider the following factors before taking the plunge:

BACKYARD
The size and layout of your backyard should both be taken into consideration. A hot tub can fit easily into most backyards, while a swimming pool will require a medium to large-sized backyard space. Especially if you wish to connect your pool or spa to the house via a built-in deck or patio installation.

BUDGET
Every budget is different, along with the cost of a swimming pool or hot tub installation. Before making your choice, sit down and take a good look at your budget. Once you know what is comfortably affordable both short and long term, you can make a more informed decision.

FAMILY
Your family life can also impact your decision. Smaller families or situations where the kids have moved out, leaving parents empty nesters, may get more use out of a relaxing hot tub. Larger families with young children will likely make good use of the pool on weekends and during summer vacation. Not to mention if you enjoy entertaining family and friends in the comfort of your backyard or prefer to keep your outdoor oasis to yourselves.

ENJOYMENT
How do you spend your free time? Most often, backyards are personalized according to the homeowners interests and desires. Those who like to relax and ease stress in their backyard might enjoy the installation of a hot tub over a pool, while those who prefer a more active lifestyle could make use of a swimming pool.

CAN’T DECIDE?
If you can’t decide between a swimming pool and a hot tub, we might have the solution for you. Swim spas are often described as a hybrid system between a pool and a hot tub. Perfect for relaxation, stress relief, healing, recreation, entertainment, and exercise, swim spas can fit comfortably into most backyards and lifestyles for countless hours of leisure, entertainment and enjoyment.

Not sure which size hot tub to buy? Consider the size of your family, number of people that will be using the spa at once, size and layout of your backyard, and your budget. To get a better idea of the size difference between smaller hot tubs and larger hot tubs, visit your local All Seasons Pools & Spas showroom today. We have a large selection of Sundance® Spas hot tubs available in a variety of sizes.

Every two weeks you should remove your hot tub filter and clean it with a spray solution and water from the hose. This can help to remove surface debris and keep the filtration system working properly. Every two months, you should remove the filter and replace with a back-up. Soak the filter overnight in a large bucket filled with water and a filter cleaning solution. This can help to remove any debris that is trapped far below the surface. Finally, once a year you should completely replace the filter with a new one.

Depending on how frequently the hot tub is used, quality of the water used to fill it, and how well it is maintained and cared for, you should aim to drain and clean the hot tub every three to four months.