• An improperly installed pool can cause problems.refreshing dip in pool image by David Smith from Fotolia.com
  
  Pools need to be installed with care, whether they are in-ground or above ground. Sloppy installation, unskilled contractors or inferior materials can lead to expensive problems with your pool in the future. Installing a pool properly is far easier than draining it and attempting to fix a problem later, particularly for an in-ground pool that might need excavation for repair.
  
  

Pump and Filter Size

• In order for the pump and filter in a pool to work properly, they need to be compatible. If the pump is much larger than the filter, it will prevent the filter from filtering out particulates because they will be forced through the filter by the power of the pump. Many pool purchasers assume a bigger pump is better because it is more powerful, but it is more important that the pump allows the filter to capture the maximum amount of impurities, particulates and dirt. Be sure to ask these questions of your pool dealer and installer, particularly if you are installing an above-ground pool, in which mismatched pumps and filters tend to be more of a problem.
  
  

Improper Clearing and Leveling

• This problem particularly afflicts above-ground pools. The bottom liner of an above ground pool rests on the ground, so in order for the liner to be even and flat, the ground beneath it must be even and flat. If it isn't, the bottom will be difficult to clean because cleaning tools won't slide smoothly and accurately over it. In addition, the unevenness of the ground underneath the liner increases the danger of a puncture in the liner caused by a rock or other sharp object poking through it. Be sure that the site is adequately prepared before bringing the above ground pool on site.
  
  

Plaster

• Problems with plaster are specific to in-ground pools. If the construction and plastering in your pool are of inferior quality, you are more likely to experience problems. However, even with high quality construction, you can experience damage to your pool in the event of tremors, earthquakes or extremely cold weather. Minor plaster problems can result in flaking of your pool walls and dirtying of your water, while major problems can result in pool wall failure and require draining and major reconstruction of the pool. When hiring tradespeople to do your pool, minimize your risk of problems by insisting on getting references from previous customers and following through on checking them out.