Troubleshooting All Liners & Frame Pieces
Updated
SETUP ISSUES
Site Preparation Issues
Removing Wrinkles
LEAKS
How to find a Pin Hole
Seam Leaks
Grass growing through liner
Applying a Pool Patch
POST SEASON CARE
Draining the Pool
Disassembling the Frame
Rusting and Physical Damage
How to deflate a Quickset Pool
Horizontal Beams Sticking to Liner
How to Clean a Polygroup Liner
SETUP ISSUES
The correct pool setup is extremely important. Polygroup above-ground pools are designed to be safe and functional when installed according to the assembly instructions provided with each pool.
When troubleshooting liner problems, you may be provided with information that indicates the pool may not have been set up correctly:
My pool is leaning, or bulging, on one side
My pool liner is uneven (or is not straight)
As a consumer you may not realize the pool was not set up correctly. Thoroughly evaluate the current setup of your pool to determine weather or not it is setup incorrectly.
Site Preparation Issues
Important:
Incorrect site preparation is a serious issue, which can lead to pool failure.
Pools which have not been set up correctly can have the following symptoms:
Leaning or bulging pool wall
Uneven sides
Bent or collapsed frame pieces
Pool wall collapse
These issues SHOULD NOT OCCUR on pools which have been correctly installed. If you notice one of these issues is happening, disassembleand and make sure the pool is set up on even ground that is compacted.
The following guidelines MUST be followed when installing a Polygroup pool. Confirm each point has been reviewed. Failure to follow these instructions may void the warranty.
Set up the pool only on LEVEL, STABLE, and COMPACT soil.
The pool must be assembled on a smooth and level site, with firm soil, that is free of stones, gravel, sticks, blacktop, or other oil base compounds.
Do not install pool on a wooden deck or any type of wooden surface.
DO NOT set up the pool on sand.
Sand can be washed out, causing the pool to DEFORM and COLLAPSE.
DO NOT overfill the pool, or allow the pool wall to support weight.
The frame on frame pools is designed to support the pool wall, and the weight of the water within the pool. Leaning on, sitting on, or hanging any object on the pool wall will compromise its integrity.
The liner on Quick-set pools is designed to support itself and the weight of the water inside the liner. Any weight placed on the pool wall will cause it to lower or collapse.
Removing Wrinkles
To ensure correct function, follow the assembly instructions provided. Failure to follow these instructions can result in wrinkles in the liner bottom, which will not allow the pool to be set up correctly.
If You Have This Issue:
You May have difficulty assembling frame pools (frame 'will not fit')
Quick-set pool sides may not rise to equal heights
Manufacturer's recommendations below:
TIP:
It will be much easier to install your pool if you unfold it and let it lay in direct sunlight for about 2 hours prior to installation. This will help to ensure a wrinkle-free fit because the pool material will be more pliable, allowing it to form into shape during installation.
Start filling the pool with water until 1-inch of water is on the bottom; then, stop filling and smooth wrinkles out of the pool bottom. Push outward from inside the pool removing all wrinkles so that it fills evenly and flat.
IF MORE THAN 1-2 INCHES OF WATER COLLECTS ON ANY ONE SIDE BEFORE THE POOL STARTS FILLING IN THE CENTER, THE POOL IS NOT LEVEL ENOUGH, AND MUST BE CORRECTED.
If these instructions were not followed, you will have wrinkles at of the pool bottom. Refer to the assembly instructions, drain the pool, and make sure the pool bottom is wrinkle free before proceeding to fill the pool.
LEAKS
How to Find a Pin Hole
To look for tiny holes in the pool liner, follow these steps:
For holes on the side of the liner, look for a small stream of water seeping from the hole. These often are visible. Fix this hole with a patch. A dry patch can be used if the hole is higher than the water level. Otherwise, a wet patch is needed.
If the hole can't be located on the inflatable ring, fill a bucket with soapy water and rub it on the pool walls completely with a wet cloth. The hole will produce bubbles from the soapy water where the leak is coming out. Fix this hole with a patch. A dry patch can be used if the hole is higher than the water level. Otherwise, a wet patch is needed.
You can use patches (either ones that came with your pool or ones you purchase from another retailer) to fix the hole. The use of patches purchased from other retailers will not void your warranty.
Seam Leaks
Leaks on or near pool liner seams can be difficult to locate or repair.
To locate a suspected seam leak, use the same methods as for locating pin holes (see: How to Find a Pin Hole).
Determine the size of the leak.
Small Leaks: A small leak is defined as less than 3” (7.5 cm) in size (largest dimension of leak). Small leaks may often be successfully repaired using a specialty repair kit designed to repair large holes or rips.
Note:
Polygroup's Vinyl Repair Kit is an example of a repair kit for patching large or irregular holes. It contains 500 square inches (3225 square centimeters) of patch material.
Large Leaks: A large leak is defined as more than 3” (7.5 cm) in size (largest dimension of leak). Repairs of large leaks are typically unsuccessful.
OtherLeaks : Some leaksdo not easily meet the criteria for small or large leaks. Examples include leaks located where frame straps are attached to the liner, or at through-wall fittings, such as suctions, returns, or drains. For any leaks which cannot be clearly identified as a small leak or a large leak.
Important: In cases you areunable to identify the size or extent of a leak, call our customer care at
1-888-919-0070
for assistance. You maybe asked to provide photos to further assistance.
Repair or Replace
Small Leaks
Werecommend repairs for small seam leaks. For warranty claims, we will always send out a vinyl repair kit for repairs before considering liner replacement. If repairs for a small leak are unsuccessful, we would then proceed to liner replacement as the final step in the warranty process (if warranty is available).
Large Leaks
We recommend liner replacement for large leaks (if warranty is available). Repairs are unlikely to be effective, and potential exists for sudden failure of the pool liner. For warranty claims, we will always proceed to liner replacement for large leaks. Please refer to your owner's manual for warranty information.
Grass Growing Through Liner
Most likely, there are no holes in the bottom of the pool. Certain types of vigorous grasses, including Nut Grass aka Nut Sedge, St. Augustine and Bermuda grasses, can grow through the liner.
Before setting up your pool, it is recommended that you clear the area of these types of grasses. Here are some suggestions:
Clear the area under the pool of all grass, it helps to do so out two or three inches beyond the pool to keep vegetation from growing under your pool.
Use an under pool liner barrier of some type, such as a pool ground cloth.
Speak with an expert at a local pool store for additional suggestions. The pool store will most likely know if hardy grasses grow in your area.
Polygroup will not be held responsible for grasses that may grow through the ground cloth or pool liner, as this is not a manufacturing defect.
Applying a Pool Patch
How do I apply a dry patch to the liner?
Lower the water level beneath the hole on the side of the pool. Clean both sides of the liner, ensuring that the area is dry. If the patches are not round, cut the patches into round shapes, as sharp edges have a tendency to leak. Apply the dry patch to each side of the hole sandwiching the hole between the two patches. This will ensure that the sealing adhesive bonds on both sides of the hole. Ensure there are no air bubbles by pressing down in an outward circular motion, which will push out any trapped air. Let patches sit for at least 24 hours before adding water back into the pool. The patch with build strength over 24 hours.
How do I apply wet patch with adhesive under water?
Cut the patch into a rounded shape. Make sure the patch is large enough to cover the damaged area. Apply adhesive sparingly €‹to one side of the patch. Fold the patch in half over on itself. Once you reach the damaged area under the water, unfold patch and immediately apply to the liner. Squeeze out any air bubbles or excess water and smooth out patch. Do not disturb patch for at least 12 hours.
How do I apply an adhesive vinyl patch to an inflatable pool?
Apply the pool vinyl adhesiveto the patch sparingly. Press the patch tight to the surface being repaired, making sure to get all air bubbles out from between the patch and the pool. Allow to stand overnight before inflating.
How would I apply a peel-and-stick wet patch?
Make sure the area to be patched is clean. Cut the patch with rounded corners at least ¾-inch larger than the hole. Separate the protective sheet from the patch, and then place the patch over the center of the hole and press firmly. Work out air and water bubbles from underneath the edges. Do not disturb the patch for 30 minutes. The longer the patch remains, the more positive the bond. Note: If applied to an inflatable surface, do not inflate for 30 minutes.
If a patch does not fix the issue, contact Polygroup customer service at
1-888-919-0070
for further information. Patches may be purchased at our online store.
POST SEASON CARE
After usage, Polygroup pools can be easily emptied and stored away in a safe place. Some pool owners choose to leave their pool up all year round. In cold areas, where freezing temperatures occur, there can be a risk of ice damage to the pool. Additionally, strong winds can easily damage unused pools, even when they contain significant amounts of water. We recommend draining, disassembling, and properly storing pools which will not be used for at least one season.
Draining the Pool
Locate the drain plug on the outside pool wall and remove the drain cap. A standard garden hose will thread onto the drain fitting. Extend the hose to the area where the water is to be drained. Open the drain plug on the inside wall of the pool and water will drain out through the hose. If you can't find the drain plug on the inside, the ”useful tips” section below for troubleshooting.
Outside Liner Drain | Inside Liner Plug |
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Remove any remaining water. Wash and completely dry pool using a soft cotton cloth. Push the drain plug into the fitting and replace the cap.
Frame Pools: If your pool has metal frame work, disassemble those pieces. This is done depending on the model of pool. You either depress the plastic buttons and slide those pieces apart, or remove plastic pins holding pieces together and slide those pieces apart. If you aren't sure how to take down the pool, refer to the set-up sheet and reverse the order of the steps.
Clean all parts and wipe dry.Storetogether in a safe storage place for reassembly next season. Order replacement parts for any damaged, broken, or worn parts from Polygroup customer service at
1-888-919-0070
or at our
online store
.It is best to order parts now so you will have them ready for when you set up the pool next season.
Solar blankets, covers, ladders, etc., should be cleaned and dried before storing.
TIP:
The drain to the pool will be found a few inches from the ground on the left or right side of the filter canister. If you can not find the drain cap, it likely meansthe liner floor was not spread evenly and the cap is under the lip of the pool. Runyour hand under the floor of the pool on both sides of the canister. Once the cap is found, expose itby pushing up on the pool enough to unscrew the cap. This likely require the use of a secondary method of removing water from the pool, such as an independent water pump.
There are slight differences in garden hose nozzle threads. This can cause some hoses not to screw properly onto the drain cap threading. Basic hoses have a higher probability of fitting the thread.
Disassembling the Frame
Pin & Grommet Removal
A small rubber mallet can be used to tap the ends of the pins through the bottom of the horizontal beams along the top of the frame.
Alternately, a pair of needle nose pliers can be utilized to remove the pins. Using the needle nose pliers, compress the ends of pin together and push up. The compression of the end allows the exposes flanges that lock under the lip of the hole to slip inside the horizontal beam. Slip the needle nose pliers underneath the head of the pin and pull up, the pin can then be removed from the horizontal beam.
If you break pins during this process, you may purchase replacements by contacting Polygroup customer service at
1-888-919-0070
or at our
online store
.
Dismantling Frame (After Pin Removal)
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Metal expands in heat. Allow the pool frame to cool into the early evening before continuing dis-assembly.
Use two people to make the process easier. The horizontal beam is pulled away from the T-fitting by one person. The second person pulls the T-fitting the opposite direction, lifting up on both in a ”opening a draw bridge” like motion to release the tension of the frame.
Rotate frame pieces clockwise, then counter clockwise. Repeat to aid in separating frame components. Utilizing two people makes the process much easier.
Leg caps can be difficult to remove. This is due to the extreme weight of the pool with water pressing down on them. Tap the bottom and sides of leg caps with a rubber mallet to loosen dirt and grim. Rotate the cap back and forth, clockwise and counter clockwise to loosen. Having a second person hold the vertical leg may be helpful.
Rusting and Physical Damage
Polygroup frame pieces do not normally rust unless the painted coat layer has been chipped off and ordamagedand exposes the bare metal to the water elements. If frame pieces do begin to rust within 30 days of date of purchase, Polygroup will replace.
Warranty replacement of frame pieces is contingent on customer submitting a copy of their proof of purchase and photos of the rusting frame components. See our
Warranty Claims
section for assistance. After 30 days, you may replace the frame components by purchasing replacements at our
online store
or contacting Polygroup customer service at
1-888-919-0070
.
Physical damage to frame pieces found when the pool is initially unpackaged to assemble for the first time are covered for 90 days from the date of purchase. If you are requesting five or more component pieces of the frame to be replaced due to physical damage, Polygroup will require photos along with original proof of purchase.
Warning:
Using sand or placing pool on uneven ground may cause bowing and physical damage to frame components.The use of sand under the pool will void the manufacturer's warranty. When sand gets wet, it compacts, which can lead to bowing and damage to frame components. Missing frame components are covered for the same 90-day time period. See our
Warranty Claims
section for assistance. After 90 days you may replace the frame components by purchasing replacements at our
online store
or contacting Polygroup customer service at
1-888-919-0070
.
Bent or damaged frame components after initial installation may be covered under the 90-day warranty based solely on an evaluation by the Warranty Department. Photos of the pool after it has been set up and damaged components need to be sent along with proof of purchase before a determination was made. See our
Warranty Claims
section for assistance. After 90 days you may replace the frame components by purchasing replacements at our
online store
or contacting Polygroup customer service at
1-888-919-0070
.
How to deflate a Quickset Pool
There is no industry standard for deflating inflatable ring pools. Below is just one suggested option of deflating your Polygroup Quickset Pool.
Deflate Methods:
Firmly grip the bottom base of the air valve where the valve and the plastic of the ring meet. This will open the reverse valve on the inside. Use the other hand or have another person assist you in flattening the ring to speed up the deflate process.
Obtain a spring loaded heavy clamp, like the one shown below, with plastic guards. The tip guards will protect the pool from damage.Pinch the bottom base of the valve, this will open the reverse valve on the inside.
Utilize the clamp to keep the valve open while freeing up both hands to squeeze air out of the inflatable ring. This process is time consuming but does offer a good way of safely removing the air. Once the ring is empty, remove the clamp.
Horizontal Beams Sticking to Liner
If yourhorizontal beams are sticking to the liner, follow the recommended steps below to separate the beams from the liner:
Pour warm soapy water inside the liner sleeve
Let the soapy water run through the length of the beam and liner sleeve for a few minutes
Do not push or pull the beam within the liner sleeve
Grasp one end of the beam, and gently rotate the beam back and forth, until it can turn freely
Once the beam has separated from the liner, pull it out and rinse it off
Let everything dry and store the pool as described in the user manual
How to Clean a Polygroup Liner
Pool liners need to be cleaned periodically. Follow the steps below to clean stains from a pool liner.
Step 1:
Drain the Pool
Drain the pool before starting the cleanup process to make sure you clean the entire liner. Follow the directions on your manufacturer's instructions to drain the pool properly.
Step 2:
Remove the Liner
After the pool is drained, remove the liner by following the instructions provided in the pool manual. Keep all parts together in a basket or bag as you will need them when reassembling the pool.
Step 3:
Scrub the Liner
Spread the liner on a flat, clean surface which has been checked for anything which could puncture the liner. Secure the liner at the edges. Be sure to use weighted objects which will not cut or puncture the liner. Mix a solution of one part mild cleanser to two parts hot water, and begin cleaning the liner using a sponge or soft brush. Do this in small sections, rinsing away the cleanser with a garden hose. Avoid scrubbing hard as you could tear the liner. Do not use any harsh, abrasive cleansers as these could cause damage to the liner.
Leave the cleaning solution to sit on hard stains for at least 10 minutes before scrubbing. If the stains do not dissolve immediately, repeat the process until they disappear or fade. The chlorine in pool chemicals prevents permanent stains, so it is rare that a stain can't be removed from a pool liner.
Step 4:
Rinse
Rinse the entire liner again with a hose to wash away any remaining cleaning chemicals. Using clean rags or paper towels, dry the liner thoroughly before re-assembling the pool.
Step 5:
Store or Refill
Refill pool, ensuring the filtration system is installed and operating properly.
