25 Clever Above Ground Pool Hacks for a Fun and Hassle-Free Summer

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your above-ground pool, but why settle for the ordinary when you can elevate your experience? This comprehensive guide will explore 25 ingenious hacks to transform your pool into a paradise of fun and convenience. From DIY upgrades to clever maintenance tricks, these ideas will help you make the most of your above-ground pool without breaking the bank.

1. DIY Pool Noodle Floating Cooler

Keep your drinks cool and within reach while you float! Create a simple floating cooler using a pool noodle, a plastic container, and some string. Cut the pool noodle to fit around the container’s rim, secure it with waterproof adhesive, and attach a string to tow it around. This hack ensures your refreshments are always just an arm’s length away.

Pro Tip: Use a clear plastic container to easily see which drinks are inside without having to open the lid.

For those who prefer a ready-made solution, consider the Intex Mega Chill II Float Cooler. This commercial product features:

• 72-can capacity
• 6 cup holders
• Removable ice chest
• Durable handles for easy transport

2. Solar-Powered Pool Lights

Illuminate your pool area with eco-friendly solar lights. These lights charge during the day and automatically turn on at night, creating a magical ambience for evening swims. Place them around the pool’s edge or float them on the water’s surface for a starry effect. This hack not only enhances safety but also adds a touch of enchantment to your backyard oasis.

For a more elaborate lighting setup, consider creating patterns or designs with multiple lights. You could outline the shape of your pool, create a path leading to the pool, or even spell out words or simple shapes on the water’s surface.

Pro Tip: Look for solar lights with different colour options or colour-changing capabilities to create various moods for different occasions.

A popular commercial option is the GAME Solar Underwater Light Show, which offers:

• 4 vibrant LED colours
• Solar-powered operation
• Floating and submersible design
• 3-4 hours of illumination per charge

3. PVC Pipe Towel Rack

Construct a sturdy and weather-resistant towel rack using PVC pipes. This DIY project is simple, cost-effective, and can be customized to fit your space. Paint the PVC pipes to match your outdoor décor, and you’ll have a functional and stylish solution for keeping towels dry and easily accessible.

To enhance this hack, consider adding additional features to your PVC towel rack:

1. Incorporate hooks for hanging swim goggles, caps, or other accessories.
2. Add a small shelf at the top for storing sunscreen, pool toys, or other essentials.
3. Install a rod underneath for hanging wet swimsuits to dry.

Pro Tip: Use PVC cement to permanently join the pipes for a more durable structure, or leave them unglued for easy disassembly and storage during off-seasons.

4. Homemade Pool Fountain

Create a soothing water feature with a homemade pool fountain. Using a pool noodle, PVC pipe, and your pool’s return jet, you can craft a fountain that adds visual interest and helps circulate the water. This hack not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your pool but also improves water quality by increasing oxygenation.

To take this hack further, experiment with different fountain designs:

1. Multi-tier fountain: Use multiple pool noodles at different heights for a cascading effect.
2. Spinning fountain: Attach a pinwheel-style attachment to create a rotating water display.
3. Misting fountain: Add small holes along the length of the PVC pipe for a fine mist effect.

Pro Tip: Install a valve on your DIY fountain to adjust the water flow and create different fountain effects.

For those seeking a professional-grade fountain, the Ocean Blue Water Products Waterfall Fountain offers:

• Easy installation on most above-ground pools
• Adjustable flow control
• LED light for nighttime illumination
• Durable construction for long-lasting use

5. Repurposed Pallet Pool Deck

Transform old wooden pallets into a chic and affordable pool deck. Sand and stain the pallets for a polished look, then arrange them around your above-ground pool. This upcycling project provides a comfortable surface for lounging and can be easily customized to fit your pool’s shape and size.

To elevate your pallet pool deck:

1. Add built-in seating by stacking and securing pallets to create benches.
2. Incorporate planter boxes between pallets for a touch of greenery.
3. Install solar-powered deck lights for improved visibility and ambience at night.
4. Create a storage compartment by leaving space between some pallets to store pool accessories.

Pro Tip: Before using pallets, ensure they are heat-treated (marked with “HT”) rather than chemically treated to avoid potential contamination.

6. Pool Noodle Safety Bumpers

Protect swimmers from bumps and scrapes by attaching pool noodles to the top edge of your pool. Simply cut the noodles to size and secure them with zip ties or waterproof adhesive. This simple hack creates a soft barrier around the pool’s perimeter, making it safer for children and adults alike.

To enhance this safety feature:

1. Use different coloured noodles to create a vibrant pattern around your pool.
2. Attach reflective tape to the noodles for improved visibility at night.
3. Replace the noodles seasonally to ensure they remain in good condition.

Pro Tip: For a more permanent solution, consider investing in purpose-built pool coping strips, such as the Swimline Copings for Above Ground Pools, which offer:

• Durable vinyl construction
• Easy installation
• Protection for pool liners and swimmers
• Available in various colours to match your pool

7. Floating Pool Speaker

Bring the tunes to your pool party with a waterproof Bluetooth speaker. Many affordable options are available that can float alongside you as you swim. This hack ensures your favourite music is always within reach, enhancing the atmosphere of your poolside gatherings.

To maximize your poolside audio experience:

1. Create a dedicated pool playlist with upbeat, summer-themed songs.
2. Use multiple waterproof speakers for surround sound effects in larger pools.
3. Consider speakers with built-in LED lights for an audio-visual experience.

Pro Tip: Look for speakers with voice assistant compatibility for hands-free control while swimming.

A popular choice among pool enthusiasts is the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2, which features:

• 360-degree sound
• 13-hour battery life
• IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating
• Ability to float and continue playing music
• Outdoor boost mode for louder, crisper audio

8. DIY Pool Toy Storage

Keep your pool area tidy with a homemade toy storage solution. Use a large plastic trash can with holes drilled in the bottom for drainage. Decorate it to match your outdoor theme, and place it near the pool for easy access. This hack helps prevent toys from cluttering your yard and extends their lifespan by keeping them out of direct sunlight.

Enhance your pool toy storage with these ideas:

1. Add wheels to the bottom of the container for easy mobility.
2. Create separate compartments for different types of toys (floats, dive toys, water guns, etc.).
3. Install a pegboard nearby for hanging goggles, snorkels, and other small accessories.

Pro Tip: Use a mesh laundry bag inside the storage container to easily remove and rinse all the toys at once.

For a ready-made solution, consider the Pool Blaster Pool Pouch, which offers:

• Durable mesh construction for quick drying
• Multiple pockets for organized storage
• Hooks for easy hanging on pool fences or walls
• Compact design for space-saving storage

9. Tiki Torch Bug Repellent Station

Combine ambience and pest control with a tiki torch bug-repellent station. Fill tiki torches with citronella oil and place them strategically around your pool area. Not only do they provide warm lighting, but they also help keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay, allowing for more enjoyable evening swims.

Expand on this idea by:

1. Creating a DIY citronella candle-making station for a fun poolside activity.
2. Planting mosquito-repelling plants like lavender, marigolds, or citronella grass around your pool area.
3. Installing a misting system with natural insect repellent for broader coverage.

Pro Tip: For a flameless alternative, try battery-operated LED tiki torches filled with citronella oil for the same repellent effect without the fire hazard.

A popular commercial option is the TIKI Brand BiteFighter LED String Lights, which feature:

• LED lights for ambience
• Built-in mosquito repellent diffusers
• 36-foot string for expansive coverage
• Weather-resistant construction

10. Inflatable Serving Bar

Host the ultimate pool party with an inflatable serving bar. These affordable accessories float on the water’s surface, providing a stable platform for drinks and snacks. Some even come with built-in coolers to keep beverages chilled. This hack eliminates the need for frequent trips to the house for refreshments.

Maximize your inflatable serving bar by:

1. Creating themed sections for different types of drinks or snacks.
2. Adding a floating chess or checkers set for entertainment while enjoying refreshments.
3. Using waterproof playing cards for poolside game nights.

Pro Tip: Anchor your inflatable bar to the pool’s edge with a bungee cord to prevent it from floating away.

For those looking for a commercial product, the Intex Mega Chill II Inflatable Floating Cooler offers:

• 72-can capacity with ice
• 6 cup holders
• 2 built-in handles for easy transport
• Removable lid for easy access

11. Pool Skimmer Socks

Keep your pool cleaner and extend the life of your skimmer basket by using old pantyhose or socks as pre-filters. Stretch the fabric over the skimmer basket to catch finer debris before it enters your filtration system. This hack reduces the frequency of basket cleanings and helps maintain water clarity.

To enhance this hack:

1. Use different coloured socks to easily identify when they need changing.
2. Create a rotating schedule to ensure regular replacement of the pre-filter.
3. Make a DIY skimmer sock holder using a plastic container with holes for easy storage and access.

Pro Tip: For a more durable solution, invest in reusable mesh skimmer socks designed specifically for pool use.

A popular commercial option is the Impresa Products 20-Pack of Pool Skimmer Socks, which offers:

• Fine mesh to trap small debris
• Elasticized top for a secure fit
• Reusable and easy to clean
• Compatible with most pool skimmers

12. Floating Pool Light Show

Create a mesmerizing light display with submersible LED lights. These battery-operated lights come in various colours and can be programmed to change patterns. Scatter them throughout your pool for a dazzling nighttime spectacle that will impress your guests and add a touch of magic to your evening swims.

Enhance your floating light show by:

1. Synchronizing the lights with music for a pool party atmosphere.
2. Creating themed light displays for holidays or special occasions.
3. Using lights of different shapes and sizes for added visual interest.

Pro Tip: Place lights in clear plastic bottles or jars for a unique diffused lighting effect.

For a professional-grade light show, consider the GAME Underwater Light Show and Fountain, which features:

• 5 light show modes and 3 fountain heights
• Rechargeable battery with up to 8 hours of use
• Easy-to-use remote control
• Compatibility with most above-ground pools

13. DIY Pool Heater

Extend your swimming season with a homemade pool heater. Using black irrigation tubing coiled on your roof or a sunny spot in your yard, you can create a simple solar heating system. As water circulates through the sun-warmed tubing, it gradually increases your pool’s temperature, allowing for comfortable swims even as the weather cools.

To optimize your DIY pool heater:

1. Use a pool cover to retain heat overnight and during cooler days.
2. Install a bypass valve to control water flow through the heating system.
3. Add a solar-powered pump to circulate water through the heater for increased efficiency.

Pro Tip: Paint the area underneath the black tubing white to reflect more sunlight and increase heating efficiency.

For those preferring a commercial solution, the SunHeater S120U Universal Solar Pool Heater offers:

• 2′ x 20′ solar panels for efficient heating
• Compatibility with existing pool pumps
• Potential to raise pool temperature by 6-10°F
• Durable construction for years of use

14. Poolside Shower Station

Rinse off before and after swimming with a DIY shower station. Use a garden hose, some PVC pipes, and a showerhead to create a simple outdoor shower. This hack helps keep your pool water cleaner by removing oils, sweat, and debris from swimmers before they enter the pool.

Enhance your poolside shower station by:

1. Adding a small platform or non-slip mat for comfort and safety.
2. Installing hooks for towels and swimwear.
3. Creating a privacy screen using lattice panels or outdoor curtains.
4. Incorporating a solar-heated water tank for warmer showers.

Pro Tip: Use a shower filter to remove chlorine and other chemicals from the water for a more skin-friendly rinse.

For a ready-made solution, consider the Poolmaster 52508 Outdoor Shower, which features:

• Easy connection to any garden hose
• Adjustable showerhead with multiple spray patterns
• Sturdy base for stability
• Simple assembly and installation

15. Pool Noodle Drink Holders

Fashion custom drink holders from pool noodles to keep your beverages secure at the pool’s edge. Cut small sections of pool noodles and slice them lengthwise to create C-shaped holders that fit over the pool’s rim. This hack prevents accidental spills and keeps drinks within easy reach.

Expand on this idea by:

1. Creating a floating drink caddy by connecting multiple noodle drink holders.
2. Adding personalized name tags to each holder for party guests.
3. Using different coloured noodles to colour-code drinks (e.g., red for adults, blue for kids).

Pro Tip: For a more stable option, use foam pipe insulation instead of pool noodles, as it has a smaller diameter and fits more snugly on pool edges.

For those who prefer a commercial product, the GoPong Pool Drink Holders offer:

• Set of 6 durable drink holders
• Compatibility with most above-ground pool edges
• Built-in coasters to prevent condensation on the pool deck
• Stylish designs for added poolside aesthetics

16. Floating Movie Screen

Transform your pool into an outdoor cinema with a floating movie screen. Use a white shower curtain or projector screen material stretched between PVC pipes to create a frame. Float this screen on pool noodles or inflatable rafts, set up a projector, and enjoy movies under the stars while lounging in your pool.

Enhance your floating movie experience by:

1. Creating a surround sound system with waterproof Bluetooth speakers.
2. Setting up a snack bar with floating serving trays for movie treats.
3. Providing themed pool floats to match the movie genre (e.g., shark floats for a Jaws screening).
4. Installing dimmable LED lights around the pool for ambience without interfering with the picture.

Pro Tip: Use a short-throw projector to reduce the distance needed between the projector and screen, making setup easier in smaller spaces.

For those seeking a ready-made solution, consider the Gemmy Inflatable Movie Screen, which features:

• 14.5-foot diagonal screen
• Built-in fan for easy inflation
• Weather-resistant material
• Includes tethers and stakes for stability

17. Solar Pool Cover Reel

Make removing and replacing your pool cover a breeze with a DIY solar cover reel. Using PVC pipes, wheels, and a hand crank, you can create a system that easily rolls up your cover when not in use. This hack saves time and effort while encouraging regular use of your pool cover to maintain water temperature and cleanliness.

To optimize your solar pool cover reel:

1. Add a locking mechanism to prevent unwinding in windy conditions.
2. Install a cover for the reel to protect it from the elements when not in use.
3. Create a storage rack nearby for pool cleaning tools and accessories.

Pro Tip: Use adjustable support legs on your reel to accommodate uneven ground and ensure smooth operation.

For a commercial alternative, the Rocky’s 3A Above Ground Pool Solar Reel offers:

• Easy-to-use hand crank
• Adjustable width to fit various pool sizes
• Sturdy aluminum construction
• Large treaded wheels for easy mobility

18. Poolside Herb Garden

Enhance your pool area with a functional and aromatic herb garden. Use hanging planters or vertical gardening systems to grow herbs like mint, lavender, and rosemary near your pool. Not only do these plants add a pleasant fragrance, but they can also be used in refreshing poolside cocktails or as natural insect repellents.

Expand your poolside herb garden by:

1. Creating a DIY vertical pallet garden for maximum space efficiency.
2. Installing a small greenhouse for year-round herb production.
3. Adding a mojito station with fresh mint and other cocktail ingredients.
4. Incorporating edible flowers like nasturtiums for colorful, tasty garnishes.

Pro Tip: Use self-watering planters to reduce maintenance and ensure your herbs stay healthy even on hot summer days.

For those interested in a ready-made solution, the Outland Living 4-Foot Vertical Garden provides:

• 5 stackable planters
• Self-watering reservoir system
• UV-resistant, durable construction
• Easy assembly and minimal maintenance

19. DIY Pool Vacuum

Create an effective pool vacuum using a garden hose, a plastic bottle, and your pool’s skimmer. Attach the bottle to the hose, creating a suction that pulls debris into the skimmer basket. This hack provides a cost-effective way to maintain your pool’s cleanliness between professional cleanings.

Improve your DIY pool vacuum by:

1. Adding a telescopic pole for extended reach.
2. Creating interchangeable vacuum heads for different types of debris.
3. Installing a fine mesh bag over the bottle to catch smaller particles.

Pro Tip: For better suction, use a 2-liter soda bottle instead of a smaller one, and create multiple small holes rather than one large hole.

For those preferring a commercial option, the Poolmaster 28300 Big Sucker Swimming Pool Leaf Vacuum offers:

• Large-capacity debris bag
• Reusable all-purpose collection bag
• Weighted vacuum head for better suction
• Compatible with most standard pool poles

20. Floating Cocktail Caddy

Craft a floating cocktail caddy using a plastic storage container and pool noodles. Secure the noodles around the container’s rim for buoyancy, and use dividers inside to organize glasses, bottles, and snacks. This hack keeps refreshments dry and stable while you enjoy them in the pool.

Enhance your floating cocktail caddy with:

1. A built-in ice bucket compartment for keeping drinks cool.
2. Solar-powered LED lights for nighttime illumination.
3. A detachable cutting board for preparing garnishes.
4. A waterproof Bluetooth speaker for entertainment.

Pro Tip: Use silicone cup holders or non-slip mats inside the caddy to prevent glasses from sliding around.

For a commercial alternative, consider the BigMouth Inc. Inflatable Pool Party Drink Cooler, featuring:

• Inflatable design for easy storage
• Multiple drink holders
• Large central ice bucket
• Durable PVC construction

21. LED Hula Hoop Pool Lighting

Create a unique lighting solution by submerging battery-operated LED hula hoops in your pool. These colorful rings provide ambient lighting and can be easily removed when not in use. This hack offers a fun and unconventional way to illuminate your pool for nighttime swims.

Expand on this idea by:

1. Creating patterns or shapes with multiple hoops.
2. Using hoops of different sizes for varied lighting effects.
3. Incorporating glow sticks for additional color options.
4. Hosting a nighttime pool party with LED accessories for guests.

Pro Tip: Look for rechargeable LED hula hoops to reduce battery waste and save money in the long run.

For those seeking a similar effect without DIY, the LOFTEK LED Light Ball offers:

• 16 color options and 4 light modes
• Remote control operation
• Rechargeable battery with up to 12 hours of use
• IP65 waterproof rating for pool use

22. Pool Noodle Water Blaster

Fashion water blasters from pool noodles for endless aquatic fun. Cut a pool noodle in half, seal one end, and use it to shoot streams of water. This simple hack provides hours of entertainment for children and adults alike, turning your pool into a watery battlefield.

Enhance your pool noodle water blasters by:

1. Creating targets for accuracy games.
2. Organizing a water blaster tournament with prizes.
3. Using different sized noodles for varied water pressure and distance.
4. Adding food coloring to the water for colorful battles (use with caution to avoid staining).

Pro Tip: For improved water pressure, use a bicycle pump to pressurize the noodle before releasing the water.

For a ready-made alternative, consider the JOYIN 4 Pack Water Blaster, which features:

• High-capacity water tanks
• Long-range water shooting
• Durable construction
• Set of 4 for group play

23. Floating Yoga Mat

Practice your yoga routine on the water with a DIY floating yoga mat. Use a thick foam camping mat or exercise mat and attach pool noodles around the edges for buoyancy. This hack adds an exciting challenge to your yoga practice and provides a unique way to enjoy your pool.

Expand on this idea by:

1. Hosting poolside yoga classes for friends and family.
2. Creating a floating meditation corner with cushions and umbrellas.
3. Incorporating pool noodle resistance exercises for a full-body workout.
4. Adding anchor points to keep the mat stable during use.

Pro Tip: Apply a non-slip coating to the mat’s surface to improve grip when wet.

For those preferring a commercial product, the Goplus Floating Water Pad offers:

• Large surface area for multiple users
• Tear-resistant XPE foam construction
• Rollable design for easy storage
• Bungee tether system for anchoring

24. Tennis Ball Skimmer Cleaner

Keep your pool’s waterline clean with this simple hack. Cut a tennis ball in half and use it to scrub away scum and oils that accumulate at the water’s edge. The fuzzy texture of the tennis ball is perfect for gentle yet effective cleaning, and it’s an eco-friendly alternative to chemical cleaners.

Enhance this cleaning method by:

1. Attaching the tennis ball to a pool brush for extended reach.
2. Using different colored tennis balls for various cleaning tasks.
3. Creating a DIY telescopic pole attachment for the tennis ball.
4. Incorporating essential oils for a pleasant scent while cleaning.

Pro Tip: Soak the tennis ball in a mixture of water and vinegar for added cleaning power against tough stains.

For a commercial alternative, consider the Redneck Convent Pool Sponge, which features:

• Ergonomic design for comfortable use
• Compatibility with standard pool poles
• Durable construction for long-lasting use
• Effective removal of oils and scum

25. Pool Noodle Floating Relaxation Station

Create the ultimate relaxation spot by connecting multiple pool noodles to form a floating lounger. Use zip ties to secure the noodles in a rectangular shape, adding a mesh fabric for comfort. This hack provides a personalized floating oasis perfect for sunbathing or reading a good book.

Upgrade your relaxation station with:

1. A detachable canopy for sun protection.
2. Cup holders and a small table for snacks and drinks.
3. Tethering system to keep it in place.
4. Incorporated storage pockets for books, sunscreen, and other essentials.

Pro Tip: Use marine-grade fabric for the mesh to ensure durability and quick drying.

For those seeking a commercial product, the Intex Floating Recliner Lounge offers:

“The joy of an above ground pool is not just in the swimming, but in the creativity you bring to make it uniquely yours.” – Unknown

Conclusion

By implementing these clever hacks, you can transform your above ground pool into a personalized oasis of fun and relaxation. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult professionals when making significant modifications to your pool or its surroundings. With a little ingenuity and effort, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a summer filled with hassle-free pool enjoyment.

For more information on pool safety and maintenance, visit the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals.