Bestway Hydrium™ Pools Owner's Manual

Important Safety Information & Warnings

ATTENTION! Before setting up your pool, ensure your selected location is completely firm and level. Assemble the pool on the provided ground cloth.

NOTE: The liner of the steel wall pool is designed to be smaller than the steel wall for technical reasons. If you find it difficult to assemble the liner, place it under the sun for one hour to make it more pliable. Assemble step by step, stretching it by hand; this will not damage the liner.

WARNING: NO DIVING! Shallow water. You can be permanently injured.

PREVENT DROWNING: Watch children at all times.

General Safety Precautions:

• Only for outdoor use. Teach your children to swim.
• Never dive, jump, or slide into the pool. Adult supervision is always required. Parents should learn CPR. Never swim alone.
• Keep all electrical appliances (radios, speakers) away from the swimming pool.
• Ensure your feet are "Bone Dry" when touching the filter, pump, or electrical parts.
• All electrical outlets should have a GFCI and be a minimum of 5 feet (1.52 m) from the pool wall perimeter. For distances between 5-10 feet (1.52-3.05 m), use a fixed connection (outlet box) or twistlock connection with a GFCI. Connect power cords only to 3-wire grounding-type outlets.
• Keep all breakable objects out of the pool area.
• Alcohol consumption and pool activities do not mix. Never allow swimming, diving, or sliding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Do not install the pump or filter on a deck, as it could fall into the water, causing severe shock or electrocution.
• Do not use the pool during severe weather conditions like electrical storms or tornadoes.
• Be aware of overhead power lines when vacuuming or using a telescoping pole.
• Do not allow diving, climbing, sitting, or standing on the top rails of the pool.
• Do not allow roughhousing and horseplay.
• Avoid extended breath-holding activities underwater, as this can lead to blackouts and drowning.
• Install a pool ladder or staircase for safe entry and exit.
• Keep the deck clean and clear of tripping hazards.
• Regularly check for signs of wear or loose bolts on the deck.
• Instruct pool users on the proper use of pool ladders and staircases. Face the ladder when going up or down. Allow only one person on the ladder at a time.
• Check nuts and bolts regularly to ensure ladder sturdiness.
• Remove or secure the ladder to prevent unauthorized entry when the pool is not in use.
• Contact your dealer or manufacturer for additional safety signs if needed.
• For pool service, use a certified pool professional.
• Position equipment connected to circulation systems to prevent children from using them as a means of access to the pool.
• Installation must comply with local codes and may require permits for building, plumbing, electrical, and zoning.
• The pool must be located a minimum of 6 ft (1.83 m) from any electrical receptacle.
• All 125-volt, 15 and 20-ampere receptacles within 20 ft (6.0 m) of the pool must be GFCI protected.
• Affix all "no diving" and safety signs as per manufacturer instructions.
• A barrier is necessary for drowning prevention and is not a substitute for constant supervision.
• Post emergency telephone numbers (police, fire, ambulance) near the pool.
• Keep objects that a child could climb on (toys, chairs, tables) at least 4 feet (1219 mm) from the pool.
• Basic lifesaving equipment, such as a rigid pole (shepherd's crook) or a rope with a ring buoy, should be available.
• The pool cover is not a safety barrier.
• Use artificial lighting for nighttime use to illuminate safety signs, ladders, steps, and walks.
• The pool is subject to wear and deterioration. Improper maintenance can lead to structural failure, potentially causing harm.
• The bottom of the pool must be visible at all times from the outside perimeter.
• Ensure all safety signs are affixed to the liner or pool structure as per manufacturer instructions.
• Refer to the pump's manual for filter pump instructions.
• The ladder must be on a solid base and installed per its instructions.
• Publications are available regarding drowning, entrapment, and diving accident risks.

Choosing the Correct Location

The surface chosen for pool installation must meet these technical characteristics:

1. The surface must uniformly support the total weight of the water and users. Consider that water may escape the pool, potentially softening the surface.
2. Position the pool away from objects children could use to climb into it.
3. Locate the pool near an adequate drainage system for overflow or discharge.
4. The surface must be flat and smooth. Inclines or unevenness can cause unbalanced loading, potentially damaging the pool structure and causing injury or property damage.
5. The surface must be clear of any objects that could damage or perforate the pool bottom due to water weight.
6. The surface must be clear of aggressive plants and weeds, as they can grow through the liner and cause leaks. Eliminate grass or vegetation that causes odor or slime.
7. Ensure the location does not have overhead power lines or trees. Verify there are no underground utility pipes, lines, or cables.
8. Position the pool away from house entrances.
9. Do not place equipment or furniture around the pool, as escaping water can cause damage.
10. The selected surface must be flat and without holes that could damage the liner.

Follow these instructions for correct surface and location selection. Damaged parts due to incorrect setup will void the warranty.

Suggested set-up surfaces: grass, ground, concrete, and other suitable surfaces.

Not suggested surfaces: mud, sand, gravel, deck, balcony, driveway, platform, soft/loose soil, or surfaces not meeting the above conditions.

Check local by-laws regarding fencing, barriers, lighting, and safety requirements.

Installation

Installation typically takes approximately 2 hours with 2-3 people, excluding earthworks and filling. Please refer to diagram steps.

Tools Required (not included):

The installation process involves several key stages:

1. Preparation: Begin by putting on gloves for safety. Ensure the chosen location is perfectly level and clear of any debris.
2. Frame Assembly: Connect various frame components to the pool wall. This includes attaching parts like #08 and #09, ensuring specific gaps (1-1.5 cm) are maintained. Other parts like #10, #11, #13, #14, #17, and #18 are secured to build the pool's structure.
3. Liner Attachment: The liner is attached to the assembled frame.
4. Water Filling: The pool is gradually filled with water. Initially, fill to about 6 cm from the top of the connection valve, then continue filling to a total depth of 15 cm.
5. Accessory Installation: Install necessary accessories such as ladders and filter connections using parts like #01, #02, #03, #04, #05, #07, #09, #10, #19, and #20.
6. Final Checks: Ensure all connections are secure and the pool is stable.

NOTE: Before connecting the valve, fill the pool leaving 5-6 cm of space between the valve position and the water surface.

WARNING: Never permanently install the connection valve before the water is within a few centimeters of it, as the liner needs to be taut from water pressure.

NOTE: Be careful of splinters or sharp edges when cutting the pool.

IMPORTANT: Cutting more liner than necessary will damage and void the pool liner. Trim with extra care.

Pool Maintenance

Adhering to maintenance guidelines is crucial for health, especially for children.

Using Chemical Tablets (not included):

NOTE: Use Chemconnect or a Chemical Floater when using tablets. If your item does not include these dispensers, they can be purchased on the Bestway website or at a pool dealer.

IMPORTANT: Do not use granular tablets or throw them directly into the water, as they can deposit on the bottom, damage the material, and discolor the PVC.

Using Chemical Liquid (not included):

IMPORTANT: Add chemical liquid in small doses in the center of the pool to avoid direct contact with the PVC surface, which can cause damage and discoloration.

NOTE: Remove the chemical dispenser from the pool when it is in use.

IMPORTANT: After chemical maintenance and before using the pool, use a test kit to check water chemistry. Maintain water according to the following table:

NOTE: Damage from chemical imbalance is not covered by warranty. Pool chemicals are toxic; handle with care. Consult your local pool supply retailer for more information on chemical maintenance and follow manufacturer instructions. Misuse of chemicals and mismanagement of pool water are not covered by warranty.

IMPORTANT: Over-usage of chemicals can discolor printing and pool material, and damage the liner structure.

To keep your pool clean:

1. Contact your local pool supply shop for chemicals and pH kits. Maintaining clean and healthy water is key to the liner's life. Follow professional technician instructions for water treatment.
2. Place a bucket of water next to the pool to clean users' feet before entering.
3. Cover the pool when not in use.
4. Skim the pool regularly to remove settled dirt.
5. Check and wash the filter cartridge regularly.
6. Gently clean any scum from below the top ring with a clean cloth.
7. Be careful with rainwater; check the water level. If it exceeds the specified level, discharge excess water.
8. If it rains, check the water level. If it exceeds the specified levels, drain the pool to the correct level.

Proper maintenance maximizes pool life. The filtration system must run daily to ensure complete water renewal.

NOTE: The pump circulates and filters water. Add chemicals for clean and hygienic water.

REPAIR

For leaks, use the provided underwater adhesive repair patch. Instructions are in the FAQs on www.bestwaycorp.com.

STORAGE

1. Remove and store all accessories and spare parts clean and dry.
2. Store the liner and accessories in a dry place with moderate temperatures (5°C / 41°F to 38°C / 100°F).
3. During the rainy season, store pool and accessories as described above.
4. Improper draining can cause personal injury or property damage.
5. It is strongly recommended to disassemble the pool during the off-season (winter months). Store in a dry location out of children's reach.

If you do not dismantle the pool in winter, observe the following instructions:

IMPORTANT: Do not drain all pool water, as strong winds can damage the pool. Drain water to 10 cm below the inlet valve.

1. Drain water to 10 cm below the inlet valve using a pump or garden hose.
2. Treat the pool water with a suitable chemical product.
3. Remove the filtration system; inlets/outlets can remain attached.
4. Remove and store other pool accessories in a dry, cool place.
5. Protect the pool with the pool cover.

If dismantling for winter:

1. Drain the pool using a garden hose or drain pump.
2. Clean all parts with a sponge and neutral pH soap. Dry them and store in a dry, clean place.

Parts List

Parts for Bestway Hydrium 15 ft x 48 in (4.60 m x 1.20 m) Pool Set (Model: 256003000123)