The best pools for summer cottages

Swimming is one of the most rewarding sports, but it is not always possible to visit public waterworks. In this case, a good alternative would be a small plastic, rigid, frame or inflatable pool, which can be installed in the country or in the courtyard of a private house in the city. To select a safe and convenient option, experts-expertpro.techinfus.com experts have prepared a rating of the best pools of these types.

Which pool is better - inflatable, frame or plastic

The frame model is a bowl and a frame-like base. This is a collapsible version, which is assembled with the onset of heat and dismantled when the air temperature drops. In contrast, an inflatable structure requires filling with air to maintain its shape. The simplest in terms of maintenance is the plastic bowl, which is a one-piece container with steps.

For occasional use in the country, when you have to come there only for the weekend, the best option would be an inflatable pool. If it is unnecessary, it can be quickly lowered. Those who want to purchase a permanent structure that can withstand winter frosts are advised to install a plastic, stationary product. The frame product will be the golden mean between the two proposals.

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Which company pool is better to choose

The leaders in the production of inflatable and frame models are Bestway and Intex, which compete with each other and offer approximately the same quality and price level. Among plastic and rigid structures, the choice of brands is much wider, here the first places are shared by American, Russian, Czech brands:

• Bestway - the brand under which inflatable products are sold: beds and mattresses for travel and home, boats, swimming pools and accessories for them, goods for games and recreation - lifebuoys, cheesecakes, rafts, fins, children's centers. It is one of the world's largest manufacturers of PVC products, starting in 1993 in the United States and China. He owns 4 factories and over 30 sales offices in South America, Canada and Europe. The company's policy is to comply with a sparing pricing policy with acceptable product quality. The fact that its inflatable pools are good is confirmed by international quality certificates.
• Intex Is an American company founded by several like-minded people in 1964. Today it has grown into a global inflatable corporation. All products are tested after creation to confirm safety and quality in accordance with international standards ISO 9000.Intex products are sold in more than 50 countries in Europe, America, Asia. The brand's nomenclature is quite wide - inflatable mattresses, boats, beds, toys, pools, including frame ones. The latter have rigid walls and a flat bottom, withstand high water pressure, and are devoid of the unpleasant smell of PVC.
• Summer escapes - one of the brands of the American company "Polygroup", which belongs to the largest developers and suppliers of swimming pools for over 25 years. There are production sites in Asia, Europe, America. Basically, we are talking about round and rectangular frame structures. Their depth varies from 0.7 to 1.4 m, and inside they can accommodate up to 7-8 people, depending on the volume of the bowl. The kit includes everything you need for the installation and operation of products - bedding, cleaning kit, ladder, skimmer, cartridge filter.
• Baikal - supplier of plastic pools for digging into the ground or for installation in a concrete base. The brand has blue and gray models. Their key characteristics are the presence of several steps for a comfortable and safe descent into the water, an oval shape, no unpleasant smell of PVC, a relatively large depth - from 1.20 m, resistance to frost and ultraviolet rays. Designs of the brand are distinguished by ease of installation, high strength and ease of maintenance.
• Azuro - a line of pools and equipment for their maintenance by the Albion Group company. The enterprise was founded in the Czech Republic in 1990, today its products are widely sold in Europe, Africa, Asia, America. They are mainly round freestanding or sink-in bowls made of high-strength steel and foil with ladder and skimmer bag. The average depth of the bowls is 1.5 m. They are characterized by resistance to frost and UV rays, do not deform or lose their shape over time.

Rating of the best pools

The most important guideline in compiling a rating of the best pools for a summer residence was the type of construction - inflatable, frame, rigid, stationary.

While writing the TOP, attention was paid to the following characteristics:

• Purpose - swimming and / or bathing;
• The optimal number of people to be accommodated inside;
• The volume and shape of the bowl - oval, round, rectangular;
• Color and dimensions (length, width, depth);
• Materials of walls, bottom, frame (if any);
• Wall thickness;
• Resistant to UV rays, low temperatures, abrasion and high stress;
• Number of supports (in case of wireframe model);
• Duration and ease of installation;
• Water heating rate;
• The presence of steps or stairs;
• Corrosion resistance;
• Possibility of automatic draining;
• Complete set - pump, adapter for pumping water, hose.

During the preparation of the rating, experts took into account user reviews, the ratio of price and quality of goods.

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The best inflatable pools

This is the most affordable option that you can independently inflate and install in the garden. Such pools are usually limited to a diameter of 3-4 m, and the depth most often fluctuates between 0.70-1.20 m.To prepare the TOP, 10 models were analyzed, of which, by studying the characteristics, experts-expertpro.techinfus.com specialists selected one product with the best performance quality, convenience and safety.

Bestway Fast Set 57266

The pool "Bestway Fast Set 57266" due to the possibility of inflating and deflating air can be installed practically anywhere - in the garden, in the yard, indoors. It is designed for bathing adults and children, but 4-5 people here will already be cramped. The bowl has a round shape and does not take up much space, but because of this, it will not be possible to arrange swimming here. Its diameter is 305 cm, and its height is 76 cm, which is quite enough for people up to 170-175 cm tall.

The model has a useful volume of 4093 liters. When the container is filled to 100%, the walls, due to their strength, withstand high pressure and the structure does not deform. However, they are quite soft and do not chafe the back with frequent contact.The pool material is PVC with a thickness of 0.6-0.9 mm, which increases the service life. The coating is protected from exposure to sunlight and does not fade under UV light.

Advantages

• Convenient location of the release valve - on top;
• Fast inflation;
• There are patches in the kit;
• The material does not abrade on contact with the ground;
• Stones and earth are not felt through the bottom.

disadvantages

• Ground installation only.

According to reviews, the pool is good because it inflates quickly, but an additional pump is needed.

The best frame pools

This is the golden mean between stationary hydraulic structures and inflatable models. The frame structure is much more stable and can withstand higher loads. It can be installed in the yard, in the garden, indoors. It can be oval, rectangular or round. This section of the rating includes 4 products that meet high quality standards.

Intex Metal Frame 28200/56997

The frame pool "Intex Metal Frame 28200/56997" has a frame made of galvanized steel, resistant to high humidity and stress. Up to 6 people can be accommodated inside without consequences. Special struts provide maximum structural rigidity that can easily withstand water pressure. The bowl is made of non-toxic 3-layer PVC, so even children can swim here. For greater strength, a reinforced fiberglass mesh is laid between them.

The bowl has the optimal dimensions - 305 x 76 cm, so it fits easily in small areas. When filled to the brim, the water reaches the navel. The capacity of the tank is 4485 liters, which is quite enough for a comfortable bathing. However, you will not be able to fully swim here - the area will not give. Such structures can be transported by car.

Advantages

• The set includes an adapter for draining water;
• Assembly in 30 minutes;
• Mobility;
• Unpretentious care and storage;
• Can be transported.

disadvantages

• Package weight - 17.1 kg.

Such a pool is relevant only for installation indoors or outdoors in the warm season, since it must be stored at a positive temperature. Otherwise, the product will last less time.

Bestway Hydrium 56574/56285

This is a buildable model for outdoor use all year round. Its advantages are high strength due to a rigid steel frame, wide railings and good density of 0.3 mm thick fabric. A PVC lamer without foreign odors is used as a cover. The basis of the structure is steel sheets with anti-corrosion treatment to increase the service life.

Bestway Hydrium 56574/56285 has a bowl with a diameter of 360 cm, which is installed directly on the ground due to low supports. The depth of the container is 120 cm, which is suitable for both children and adults. Users especially like the package bundle. The set includes a backing to protect the bottom from abrasion and external factors. It also includes a cleaning filter and a ladder for easy entry into the water. The latter can be used for other purposes as well.

Advantages

• Sturdy metal ladder;
• Stainless materials;
• No odor at the walls;
• The bottom is not taken in folds;
• Small things can be put on the sides.

disadvantages

• Not perfectly round - sharp corners.

The inner walls of the frame pool have a coating that better reflects water and makes it transparent.

Intex Rectangular Frame 28273/58982

This is a prefabricated frame model with dimensions of 450 x 220 x 84 cm. Thanks to the rectangular shape, there is enough space for 3-5 people, including children. More than 6 supports along the walls guarantee the stability of the structure, and dense PVC materials retain the original shape of the bowl even under high pressure. It holds 7.127 cubic meters of water inside. The product weighs 39.2 kg, so it will often not be possible to rearrange it from place to place.

Intex Rectangular Frame 28273/58982 is easy to install and can be completed in 30 minutes. However, before that, it is necessary to level the surface on which it will be installed as much as possible. The product is designed to be fixed to the ground and does not dig in. It can only be operated in warm weather, the materials are not frost-resistant. After use, the structure must be blown off, after draining the contents through a special valve, and dried.

Advantages

• The surface of the supports can be used as tables;
• The bowl is slightly widened towards the top;
• The walls are not very hot in the sun;
• Does not emit odors;
• Smooth bottom, skin-friendly.

disadvantages

• Not deep;
• Nowhere to swim.

Such a pool is most often installed for recreation, and not for sports due to its small size. It is especially relevant if there are children in the house.

Summer Escapes P20-1042

Another round pool in the rating, with the richest complete set. The set includes a bowl, frame, hoses, a filter pump with a capacity of 2270 liters per hour and a repair kit. It is quite enough to eliminate small defects in the walls and bottom. The dimensions of the container are small - 305 x 107 cm, however, it is not recommended to pour water under the very edges to avoid splashing. The allowable indicator is 95 cm, at 90% fullness, the content volume is 6298 liters.

The bowl is placed on the ground, so the surface should be well leveled and free of stones. In the reviews they note that small hills, if any, are felt during swimming. The bottom here is non-slip, so water procedures are carried out without risk to health. Due to their high density, you can confidently lean your back on the walls. A robust metal frame holds the full container securely.

Advantages

• The length of the power cord at the pump is 1.9 m;
• Dense reinforced material;
• 3-layer welded walls;
• Stainless steel frame;
• Strong attachment of racks, connecting corners, jumper tubes.

disadvantages

• Package weight - 28.1 kg.

The reviews say that Summer Escapes P20-1042 is not affected by UV rays, abrasion and stretching.

The best plastic pools

A plastic pool for a summer residence is a solid round, rectangular or oval bowl. It is usually equipped with steps for safe and comfortable entry into the water. Such structures are intended mainly for digging into the ground, therefore, they are stationary. Introducing one model with sturdy, odorless walls and a flat bottom, frost-resistant.

Baikal

Pool "Baikal" captivates with its convenience - it does not need to be assembled and inflated, you can simply install and swim. But most buyers still prefer to dig a small pit for it. The structure can be safely left in the ground for the winter due to its frost resistance. It is not exposed to sunlight, but heats up quickly and gives off its heat to the water. The product is strong enough due to the walls more than 3 cm thick and this helps it to react normally to high fluid pressure.

The Baikal model is produced in the shape of an oval, similar to a bathtub. On one side there are steps, along which it is convenient to go deeper. But still they are not as wide as we would like, which is why you have to go inside sideways. The bottom is perfectly flat, non-slippery and smooth, which increases the level of comfort while swimming. The dimensions of the bowl are average - 4.5 x 2.3 m, which allows you to both relax here and swim. The depth is quite considerable - 125 cm, but for people with tall stature, the product will seem smallish.

Advantages

• Resistant to damage;
• Volume - 6500 l;
• Darker color heats up faster;
• Wide sides that are easy to grip.

disadvantages

• Inconvenient location of the drain.

Judging by the reviews, the “Baikal” pool has established itself as easy to install and convenient to maintain. Its walls become dirty slowly and do not require frequent cleaning.

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A rigid structure means a product with thick and dense walls. In this it is similar to plastic models.But this option cannot be dug into the ground and left on the street for the winter. They are usually sold in one piece and do not require assembly. Of the 5 products analyzed, only one with good performance was added to this review category.

Azuro 400DL

Pool "Azuro 400DL" belongs to the mid-price segment. It can be either installed separately on the ground or dug into a hole. It is not necessary to hide it for the winter due to the frost resistance of the materials. Dimensions 3.6 x 3.6 m allow you to feel comfortable while bathing 2-3 people. The depth of the bowl is 107 cm, here, of course, you can't dive, but you will be able to cool off in the heat.

The plastic sink-in pool is made in the shape of a circle and looks harmonious in small areas. Wood paneling allows it to fit into both modern and classic landscape design. The blue marble film reflects the sun's rays and promotes rapid heating of the water. The 0.4mm wall thickness makes it look neat, but at the same time withstands user stress and fluid pressure.

Advantages

• Installation within 1-2 hours;
• The color of the film can be changed at will;
• The set includes a ladder;
• The coating is not scratched;
• Volume - 11 cubic meters

disadvantages

• The package weighs 71 kg.

Reviews say that this model can be dug into the ground even in not very flat areas. This will only affect the visual perception of the bowl.

Which pool is better to buy

By far the safest pool is a permanent tiled concrete hydroelectric structure. However, this option is expensive. If you need something budgetary and at the same time permanent, then you should take a closer look at plastic models. For the summer season, frame or inflatable products are quite suitable, which can be assembled or blown off and hidden for the winter.

There are many factors to consider before deciding which pool is best:

• If there are children in the house, a good solution would be to install Bestway Fast Set 57266, which does not take up much space and is easily deflated if not needed.
• For installation in a garden in a small area, the inexpensive Intex Metal Frame 28200/56997, compact in size and at the same time accommodating up to 5-7 people, will become a relevant option.
• Bestway Hydrium 56574/56285 with rigid walls and fairly wide sides will allow you to spend time comfortably in the water.
• One person can swim in a rectangular bowl of frame type "Intex Rectangular Frame 28273/58982". It is stable on the surface and withstands the high pressure of the contents.
• You can have fun with the whole family in the “Summer Escapes P20-1042” model, which is assembled at the beginning of the warm season and disassembled at the end of summer.
• As a stationary option, a plastic bowl with Baikal steps is well suited. It is odorless and does not deform under water pressure.
• Of the rigid pools with a one-piece bowl without a frame, the Azuro 400DL deserves special attention, which is assembled in 1-2 hours.

Which pool is better - frame, inflatable, rigid or plastic, always depends on the budget and the purpose of its use. Therefore, when choosing a structure, it is important to take into account the installation site, the size of the site, the frequency of use, the approximate number of people who plan to use it.