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Choosing the right retailer or manufacturer can make or break a pool or spa project. Think of supplies like tools in a kitchen: the best recipe still needs good knives and pans. Whether you’re installing a new in-ground pool, refreshing an aging spa, or building an above-ground oasis, the right supplier ensures compatibility, reliable parts, and sensible warranties. Plus, the right store helps you balance price with performance so your pool looks great and runs efficiently for years.
Leslie’s is one of the most recognizable names for pool chemicals, test kits, and accessories across the US. If you want a broad selection of chlorine, bromine, salt systems, and pool toys, Leslie’s carries trusted brands and has staff trained to answer practical questions. They’re particularly useful if you need quick replacements or seasonal care items like shock treatments and algaecides.
In The Swim has built a strong reputation as an online destination for everything from above-ground liners to in-floor cleaning systems. They’re a go-to for DIYers who want step-by-step installation kits, replacement pumps that list horsepower and flow rates, and aftermarket heaters. The site makes it straightforward to compare, say, a 1.5 hp pump vs a 2 hp pump and understand how that affects filter size and electricity use.
Home Depot combines wide availability with the option to source heavier items locally, like safety covers, patio heaters, and basic pool equipment. If you value one-stop shopping for landscaping materials, deck hardware, and pool finishing touches, this retailer is practical. They also connect customers with local installers, which helps when coordinating a multi-trade job that involves decking and excavation.
Lowe’s is another big-box option that fits homeowners who prefer national chains. You’ll find above-ground pools, filters, and seasonal supplies, and it’s handy if you need to coordinate fencing, electrical supplies, or decorative stonework at the same time. Lowe’s often stocks compatible replacement parts from leading brands, making it easier to match components during repairs.
For pool professionals and serious DIYers, PoolSupplyWorld and PoolSupplyTown carry a deep inventory of pumps, filters, automation gear, and commercial-quality products. These retailers are great for sourcing specific models from manufacturers like Hayward or Pentair and for comparing technical specs such as filter micron ratings and heater BTUs for hot tubs.
Hayward and Pentair are manufacturers whose equipment you’ll find across many other retailers. Buying directly from a brand’s authorized dealers or certified installers often gives stronger technical support for automation systems, variable-speed pumps, and salt chlorination equipment. These companies also lead on energy-efficient products that can cut operating costs over time.
When you need quick accessories—LED bulbs, small test strips, pool floats, or replacement cartridge filters—Amazon and Walmart are hard to beat for selection and shipping speed. They aren’t the best for specialized advice, but they’re useful for last-minute items or replacement parts that match common specifications like filter model numbers or pump horsepower.
Imagine a pool that visually spills into the horizon and a built-in spa that sits one step above the waterline — that’s an infinity-edge pool with an integrated spa. This design works well on sloped lots where the ledge can disguise the catch basin. The spa can be heated independently, offering a warm soak while the main pool stays cool. If your yard faces a view, this layout turns your backyard into a resort-style postcard.
A natural lagoon style blends boulders, native plantings, and irregular edges to look like a private spring. A spa tucked behind a rock waterfall creates privacy and that soothing mask of cascading water. These builds often use pebble or aggregate finishes and are perfect if you want a low-maintenance aesthetic that hides mechanicals behind stone and landscape elements.
Don’t have a large yard? No problem — a plunge pool or courtyard spa delivers big impact without taking a lot of real estate. A plunge pool that’s 8–12 feet long and 4–6 feet deep can be a chilling swim station or a hydrotherapy room when paired with jets. These compact designs are budget-friendly and great for patios, rooftops, and tight urban lots.
If fitness is a priority, a lap pool focused on length and streamlined lanes supports serious swimming without the bells and whistles. Pair it with a raised spa at the end for cooldowns and you’ve got both function and relaxation in one footprint. Lap pools are typically narrow — think 8–10 feet wide and 40–60 feet long — making them an efficient use of longer yards.
Hybrid designs blend a swim area and spa into a single plumbing system, with diverter valves that route water differently depending on use. Combine this with a variable-speed pump and a heat pump heater to keep energy costs down. This layout is modern and flexible, letting you use heat for the spa without losing temperature control in the main pool.
Start with volume: measure your pool in cubic feet, then convert to gallons (1 cubic foot = 7.48 gallons) to size pumps and filters. For example, a 20-foot by 40-foot pool that’s 5 feet deep averages roughly 20,000 gallons. You want a pump that can turn over that volume in 6–8 hours for efficient circulation. Variable-speed pumps save energy and let you match flow for heaters and chlorinators.
Gas heaters provide quick warm-ups measured in BTUs, while electric heat pumps use less electricity in mild climates and cost less to run long-term. Consider a heat pump if you want steady, energy-efficient heating and pair it with automation so the unit runs during off-peak hours. For spas, a dedicated heater or a powerful heat pump ensures you get a 100–104°F soak without wasting energy heating the whole pool.
Automation systems let you control pumps, heaters, and lighting from a phone. LED lighting not only improves ambiance but also uses a fraction of the energy of older incandescent pool lights. Look for systems that integrate with your smart home and support scheduling — that way you can run the cleaner at night when electricity rates are lower and warm the spa before you arrive from work.
The deck material ties the whole yard together — pavers create a classic look, while textured concrete offers a modern feel. Coping stones cap the pool edge and influence how water flows back into skimmers. Don’t forget safety: anti-slip textures, well-placed handrails, and safety covers are finishing touches that protect people and preserve your investment.
Cascades, sheer descents, and bubblers add sound and motion, making your pool feel alive. Popular surfaces include pebble finishes and porcelain tiles, which affect maintenance and comfort underfoot. A darker pebble finish can make a pool feel deeper and more dramatic, while lighter finishes reflect heat and keep the water cooler in hot weather.
Budgeting a pool or spa is about more than the hole in the ground. Include excavation, plumbing, electrical, decking, fencing, and landscaping, plus a contingency of at least 10–15% for surprises. For a rough benchmark: small plunge pools and above-ground options can start in the low thousands, while custom in-ground pools with premium finishes and landscaping often range into the tens of thousands. Remember ongoing costs like electricity, chemical treatment, and seasonal maintenance when calculating annual expenses.
If you’re competent with plumbing and electricity, replacing a pump, installing a robotic cleaner, or resurfacing an above-ground pool can be a satisfying DIY weekend. Online suppliers like In The Swim provide installation kits and detailed guides to support homeowners who want to tackle projects incrementally.
Hire a licensed pool contractor for major excavation, structural work, complex plumbing, or any job that changes load on existing utilities. Pros ensure compliance with permits and local codes, and they coordinate subcontractors like electricians and landscapers. For complicated automation systems or commercial-style filtration setups, professional installation avoids costly mistakes and safety issues.
Routine maintenance prevents small issues from becoming expensive headaches. Test water chemistry at least weekly using test strips or a digital tester, and keep free chlorine in the recommended range if you’re using chlorine systems. Clean filters according to manufacturer guidelines — cartridge filters need periodic rinsing, while sand filters require backwashing. Maintain a regular schedule for shock treatments after heavy use or storms to control bacteria and algae.
Invest in a variable-speed pump; the savings on electricity can be dramatic compared with single-speed pumps. LED pool lights reduce wattage and last longer. Consider a pool cover to minimize heat loss and evaporation; even a modest cover can reduce heating needs and chemicals. Finally, look for Energy Star-rated equipment and high-efficiency heaters to cut monthly bills while keeping comfort high.
Timing purchases can save hundreds. Off-season months often yield discounts on large equipment and seasonal accessories. Retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s have periodic promotional events, while specialty suppliers may run clearance on discontinued models. Combining a seasonal sales event with comparison shopping across specialist stores and manufacturers can yield the best value without sacrificing quality.
Think of your pool and spa as a multi-year project: design for functionality, buy quality equipment that fits your pool’s volume, and choose suppliers who provide technical support and reliable shipping. Whether you pick a sleek lap pool, a nature-inspired lagoon, or a compact plunge, the right mix of retailer, installer, and equipment sets you up for years of backyard enjoyment. Ready to dive in?
Conclusion: Your backyard can become a personal retreat with thoughtful design, the right equipment, and the best suppliers to support your vision. From compact plunge pools to expansive infinity edges, the stores and manufacturers listed here provide the parts, knowledge, and variety you need to plan, build, and maintain an exceptional pool and spa environment that fits your lifestyle and budget.
