How to Care for My 12' X 30 Intex Pool

Clear the area in which you will install the pool of stones, sticks and hardy plants, such as Bermuda grass or St. Augustine grass. These hardy plants can grow through the ground tarp and even pierce the pool's exterior, causing leaks and damage.

Lay down a ground tarp that will serve as a barrier between the ground and your Intex pool. Never set up your pool on a wooden deck, sloped ground or ground that is known to shift, such as sand or mud. This will ensure proper stability and a higher level of safety.

Inflate the ring around the top of the pool with air so that the ring is round and firm to the touch. Do not overinflate, as this can lead to popping.

Fill the pool so that the water level settles at the bottom of the inflatable ring. Do not attempt to fill it any more than that, as this can cause leaking and possibly even breakage in the wall. Intex estimates that the 12 x 30 pool holds about 1,353 gallons of water.

Follow all product instructions for installing the filter and adding chlorine to the water. Check the filter, chlorine level and pH of the pool weekly to maintain ideal pool conditions, which will help to prevent the growth of algae.

Keep the pool clean. Use a skimmer to remove detritus that falls into the pool. Clean the walls of any algae growth or dirt build up. You can do this manually or purchase a pool vacuum to clean the surface. Cover the pool when not in use to reduce evaporation and dirtying of the water.

Disassemble and store your pool if the temperature in your area falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter. Drain the water by removing the cap on the drain valve on the outside of the pool and running a hose to a safe area to allow the draining water to flow.

Wash the liner in mild soap and warm water to remove residual chemicals that can damage the pool surface if allowed to remain on the surface during storage.

Allow the pool liner to air dry completely or manually dry the liner before long-term storage. Moisture left on the pool surface during storage can result in mold growth and potential damage to the pool liner.