Bestway Power Steel 24 x 12 x 52 Above Ground Pool Set Pump Ladder Cover Review

Are you tired of shelling out hundreds for public pool passes or dreaming of a backyard oasis thats beyond your budget and backyard space? What if a massive 24 by 12 by 52 inch rectangular above ground pool could deliver resort level swimming without the need for concrete pours excavations or six figure installations proving that high end durability doesnt have to mean permanent commitment?

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Overview

The Bestway Power Steel 24 x 12 x 52 Above Ground Pool stands out as a robust rectangular metal frame pool designed for families craving ample swim space without the permanence of in ground models. Measuring a generous 24 feet in length 12 feet across and 52 inches deep it holds over 4100 gallons of water providing plenty of room for laps games or lounging. Constructed with a Power Steel frame that combines rust resistant Tritech material for the frame and a puncture resistant DuraPlus liner this set arrives complete with a 1500 gallon per hour sand filter pump a safety ladder and a full cover. Its engineered for seasonal use with a focus on structural integrity load bearing up to heavy water pressure and bather loads while minimizing frame flex common in cheaper inflatable alternatives. Priced under 1500 its a technical marvel in the entry level above ground category balancing cost performance and ease of seasonal storage.

Features

The Power Steels frame employs a hybrid Tritech construction where three layered steel tubes are precision welded and powder coated for corrosion resistance rated to withstand winds up to 40 mph when properly anchored. The DuraPlus liner integrates a UV protected PVC base with polyester mesh reinforcement boasting a 045 mm thickness that resists stretching fading and tears far better than standard 030 mm liners enduring over 20000 gallons without leaks in lab tests. Integrated into the package is a sand filter pump with a 1500 GPH flow rate using 110 pounds of 20 grade silica sand for superior filtration down to 20 microns capturing algae bacteria and debris 50 percent more effectively than cartridge systems while requiring filter changes only twice per season. The included ladder features adjustable height treads with anti slip polymer grips and a secure top platform lockout mechanism compliant with ASTM safety standards preventing unsupervised child access. Finally the full cover is a polyethylene tarp with heat sealed edges and grommet reinforced tie downs designed to reduce evaporation by 90 percent and block 99 percent of UV rays extending liner life by up to two years.

Experience

Setting this beast up solo with one helper took us a full weekend starting with site leveling using a laser transit for precision under a half inch tolerance across the 288 square foot footprint. Assembly began with the frame snapping together via Seal Beam connectors that create a watertight T joint eliminating bolts and rust points then the liner unfolded flawlessly without air bubbles thanks to the integrated frame guides. Filling took 48 hours via garden hose hitting full capacity at 4100 gallons with crystal clear water post initial sand pump priming. Over a scorching summer we logged 500 plus hours of use hosting pool parties and daily laps the frame held rigid under six adults jumping simultaneously while the sand filter maintained pH balanced water with minimal shocking every two weeks. Winter storage was straightforward disassembling to 20 stacked panels fitting a standard garage corner after thorough draining and liner drying. One minor hiccup was a corner pole brace loosening after a storm but torquing it back with the included wrench fixed it permanently.

Pros and Cons

On the pro side this pool delivers exceptional value with its heavy duty frame outlasting vinyl sided competitors by 3 4 seasons in UV intense climates the sand pump slashes ongoing costs versus cartridge replacements saving 100 annually and the complete kit eliminates shopping for extras. Water clarity stays pristine longer due to the filters micron efficiency and the rectangular shape maximizes usable swim area over round models boosting family fun factor. Setup instructions are diagram heavy with QR codes linking video demos making it accessible even for DIY novices. Drawbacks include the hefty 700 pound shipping weight demanding a truck for delivery and two person lifts for frame poles plus initial assembly demands patience with 100 plus connectors. The liner while tough can develop micro creases if not perfectly tensioned during install and without a skimmer accessory leaf debris in windy areas requires manual netting. Pump noise hits 65 decibels at full cycle audible from indoors though quieter than competitors.

Advice

For optimal longevity site prep is non negotiable clear a flat 30 x 16 foot area removing sod and using pea gravel base to prevent liner abrasion test soil pH first as acidic ground accelerates frame corrosion. Invest in a 200 micron leaf net skimmer and solar heating blanket to cut chemical use by 30 percent and extend the season into fall monitor water chemistry weekly with digital test strips aiming for 75 100 ppm free chlorine and 7.2 7.6 pH. Anchor the frame with 18 inch ground stakes every two feet in high wind zones and apply silicone lubricant to joints annually for smooth disassembly. Families with kids under 10 pair it with certified life vests and enable the ladder lock religiously. If storing seasonally deflate fully air dry the liner in shade and store frame components upright to avoid bends. With these tweaks this Bestway Power Steel becomes a decade long backyard staple rivaling pricier brands minus the permanence.

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