4 Above Ground Pool Upgrades to Plan During the Off-Season

When summer ends in the Tulsa area, most people think less about their pool and more about football, pumpkin spice, and the holidays ahead.

But if you’re an above ground pool owner, fall and winter are actually the perfect seasons to start thinking about upgrades. With the swimming season behind you, you can plan, budget, and schedule improvements to make your backyard pool even better next year.

At Fiesta Pools and Spas, we see firsthand how off-season upgrades can transform an above ground pool from “nice to have” into the centerpiece of the backyard. Whether you’re looking to make your pool more comfortable, more fun, or just easier to maintain, the fall and winter months are the ideal time to get started.

Check out these four above ground pool upgrades to plan during the off-season. We look at heaters, lighting, decks, and automatic vacuums.

#1: Extend Your Swimming Season with a Pool Heater

One of the biggest challenges of owning an above ground pool is that the swim season can feel short. By late September, the water is usually too chilly for most swimmers. That’s where a heater comes in.

• Gas heaters warm the water quickly and are great if you want to use your pool on weekends or for special occasions.
• Electric heat pumps are energy-efficient and maintain comfortable water temperatures for daily use.
• Solar heaters can be a good, eco-friendly option if your backyard gets plenty of sunlight.

Adding a heater lets you open your pool earlier in the spring and keep swimming later into the fall. This is good for your pool and your family!

Instead of limiting yourself to three or four months of fun, you can stretch the season by another six to eight weeks or more.

#2: Add a Spark with Pool Lighting

Lighting can make a huge difference in how you experience your pool. It not only makes evening swims safer, but it also adds ambiance and fun to your backyard. Imagine the glow of soft blue or color-changing lights turning your above ground pool into a nighttime retreat.

There are several lighting options for above ground pools:

• LED lights are long-lasting, energy-efficient, and available in multiple colors.
• Floating solar lights add a playful, decorative touch without any wiring.
• Magnetic or wall-mounted pool lights are designed specifically for above ground pools and can be installed easily.

Adding lighting in the off-season gives you plenty of time to explore your options and schedule installation before pool weather returns. By next summer, you’ll be enjoying evening swims and backyard gatherings under a warm glow.

#3: Create a Backyard Oasis with a Pool Deck

If you don’t already have a deck around your above ground pool, this is one of the best upgrades you can make. A deck improves safety, makes getting in and out of the pool easier, and creates a comfortable space for lounging.

Decks can be customized to fit your style, budget, and backyard space. Some homeowners opt for a simple platform with stairs, while others go all out with multi-level decks, built-in seating, and even outdoor kitchens.

Fall and winter are the best times to plan a deck project. You have time to design, get quotes, and schedule construction before spring. When the weather warms up again, your pool will be surrounded by a beautiful new space for entertaining family and friends.

#4: Save Time and Energy with an Automatic Vacuum

Let’s be honest…nobody loves vacuuming a pool. It’s time-consuming and can cut into your swimming enjoyment. An automatic pool vacuum is a game-changer for above ground pool owners.

There are a few types of vacuums designed for above ground pools:

• Suction-side vacuums connect to your pool’s filtration system and are a budget-friendly option.
• Robotic vacuums are plug-and-play devices that scrub the pool floor and walls independently, often providing the deepest clean.
• Pressure-side vacuums use water pressure to move around and collect debris.

By adding one of these, you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying the water.

Why the Off-Season is the Best Time for Upgrades

You might wonder why you should plan upgrades in the fall or winter instead of waiting until pool season. Here’s why:

• Contractor availability: Builders and installers like Fiesta are less busy, so scheduling is easier.
• Less stress: Planning now means you aren’t scrambling in the spring.
• Enjoy it right away: When pool season returns, you already have all your upgrades in place and ready to enjoy.

Make Next Summer Your Best One Yet

An above ground pool is already a fantastic way to bring family and friends together. But with the right upgrades, like a heater, lighting, a deck, or an automatic vacuum, you take your pool to the next level.

The off-season is the perfect time to dream, plan, and invest in the improvements to make next summer even better.

At Fiesta Pools and Spas, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from product recommendations to installation. Stop by our showroom or give us a call. Let’s get started on the upgrades that will make your above ground pool the centerpiece of your backyard.