Without a doubt, one of the things our customers have a hard time finding are replacement parts for above ground pools. Often times, above ground pools are handed down from one family member to another, or are purchased at discounted rates from neighbors. As a new pool owner, you’re ecstatic and cannot wait to have the family over this summer for some fun in the pool.

But, there’s just one problem.

While installing the pool, you realize a couple of top rails and top caps need to be replaced. You spend hours online and calling local pool stores but no luck. There seems to be no outlet for above ground parts anywhere! What Bobby from across the street neglected to tell you when he sold you the pool is that above ground pool parts are very specific to each make and model. Even if you find pool parts that match your size and shape pool, there is no guarantee the parts will fit if they are not the same make and model. Due to the fact there are hundreds of different above ground pool models, there aren’t any universal or generic parts that can be used on different pools.

Don’t fret! There are many available above ground pool replacement parts and with a little help, INYO may be able to get these parts for you.

Caveat Emptor.

Ever heard the saying Caveat Emptor? It’s the Latin phrase for “Let the buyer beware.” Always take heed to not only the product you’re buying, but also the place you’re buying from. A lot of customers do their due diligence and research the type of pool they want to buy, but they fail to do the same research on the pool store or company they are purchasing from. Small, new pool companies and pool manufacturers pop up every year. Many times they are selling uniquely branded above ground pools with an enticing price. Caveat emptor. Before spending your money, ask them how long they’ve been in business. Ask them are they able to provide replacement parts or who you will need to contact for the parts. Analyze their company site and familiarize yourself with their history. I can’t tell you how many times customers have purchased pools from various companies that seemingly go out of business the same year they need replacement parts. With no contact information from the point of purchase, getting your hands on replacement parts can be increasingly difficult.

Save Product Literature.

When looking for replacement parts for any kind of pool equipment, the more information you know, the easier it will be to locate the parts. Saving any type of product literature ie. manuals, how to guides, and parts breakdown pages will greatly benefit you in the long run. Due to time and weather, labels and part numbers fade away and become hard to read. Even writing down the important information such as the make, model, and serial number can be a life saver when it comes to ordering parts.

Take Pictures.

Once you have your new pool up and running, take pictures and save them.  Take pictures of the walls, the top caps, top and up rails. You never know, these pictures may come in handy.

Let’s say three years later, a few of your tops rails have begun to deteriorate. You know the manufacturer but are unsure about the model. Pictures of the pool walls and up rights may help identify which model you have.

If you have the extra money, we definitely recommend you purchase a brand new pool. All brand new pools will come with extensive paperwork and diagrams that should be filed and saved along with a warranty. If you’re purchasing or have inherited a pool, take into consideration replacement parts before you oblige. Sometimes, the cost and time involved in locating parts outweighs the price of a new pool.

If you need to identify a specific pool model, check out our article titled “Identify My Above Ground Pool“.