Skip to content

The True Cost of Low Budget Pools

Investing in a pool is a big decision for any family, but it is no surprise that creating and maintaining an outdoor family pool requires some financial commitment. For families that are hesitant to invest in an in-ground or above-ground pool, the attractive prices of an inflatable pool can be a tempting option offered by the local Big Box store. But experts are saying that the inexpensive, temporary pools may seem like fun, but they are a serious way to put your family at risk.
  • • Because consumers are looking for a cheap way to enjoy a pool, they often neglect investing in some of the necessary safety equipment that in ground or above ground pools must have (fences, ladders, reaching pole, etc)
  • • A standing body of water is an attraction for kids. These pools are supposed to be drained after each use. Without a mandatory safety fence, the body of water is a tempting and accessible danger to children. They pose a risk of entrapment. In Quebec, a 13 year old drowned when her hair got caught in the inflatable pool’s filter. (Source: Washington Post)
  • • Inflatable pools seem like a budget-friendly way to let your family enjoy the benefits of a pool. With the lack of regulations surrounding these pools, we tend to forget that some of them hold over 1000 gallons of water, and need to be safety-proofed just like regular pools.
  Our advice? If your family is unsure about committing to a pool, enjoy your public, local outdoor pools that have all of the safety equipment and life guards on hand, until you make a decision. You can’t put a price on your family’s safety.