Bestway above-ground pools are budget-friendly, easy to set up, and perfect for backyard fun. But like any pool, they can run into issues—from leaks and cloudy water to malfunctioning pumps. If your Bestway pool isn’t working like it should, don’t worry—you can fix most problems without professional help.
This guide breaks down the most common Bestway pool problems and how to troubleshoot them, plus the best products to solve each issue.
1. Leaking Pool Liner
Why does it happen?
Leaks are one of the most frustrating issues for Bestway pool owners. The liner can be punctured by sharp objects under the pool or during setup.
Direct Answer: Bestway pool liners leak due to small punctures, seam failures, or improper ground preparation underneath the pool.
Fixes:
- Drain the pool below the leak line if necessary.
- Use a vinyl repair patch or adhesive designed for wet or dry repairs.
- Always inspect the ground under the pool before setup and remove sharp debris.
Recommended Product:
TEAR-AID Vinyl Repair Kit – Works underwater and adheres strongly to PVC. Ideal for patching Bestway pool liners quickly and permanently.
2. Cloudy or Green Water
Why does it happen?
Cloudy water or algae growth usually means your water chemistry is off or the filter isn’t running long enough.
Direct Answer: Bestway pool water becomes cloudy or green due to poor filtration, low chlorine, or high pH levels.
Solutions:
- Shock the pool with chlorine to kill algae and bacteria.
- Run the filter for 8–12 hours daily, especially after heavy use.
- Test and balance pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels weekly.
Recommended Product:
HTH Super Shock Treatment – Fast-acting shock that clears cloudy water and kills algae within 24 hours. Safe for vinyl and above-ground pools.
3. Pump Not Working Properly
Why does the pump lose power or stop?
The pump is the heart of your Bestway pool. If it fails, circulation stops and problems multiply.
Direct Answer: A Bestway pump stops working due to clogs, dirty filters, air leaks in hoses, or a burnt-out motor.
How to fix it:
- Check for clogs in the intake or debris in the filter cartridge.
- Ensure hoses are tightly connected and free of air leaks.
- Replace the cartridge monthly for best performance.
Recommended Product:
Bestway Type III/A Filter Cartridges – Genuine replacement filters that maintain clean water and keep your pump running efficiently.
4. Inflatable Ring Losing Air (Fast Set Pools)
What’s causing it?
Bestway Fast Set pools have an inflatable top ring that can slowly deflate due to tiny punctures or faulty valves.
Direct Answer: If the inflatable ring deflates, it’s likely due to a small leak or a slow valve leak that allows air to escape over time.
What to do:
- Inflate the ring and apply soapy water to check for bubbles.
- Patch the hole using a vinyl repair kit if needed.
- Avoid over-inflating, which can stretch and damage the ring.
Recommended Product:
Intex Vinyl Inflatable Repair Patch – Quick and simple fix for inflatable pool rings and air leaks, including Bestway Fast Set models.
5. Wrinkled or Unlevel Pool Floor
Why does the floor wrinkle or shift?
A bumpy or unlevel pool bottom can cause discomfort, stress on the liner, and poor water circulation.
Direct Answer: A wrinkled floor results from uneven ground or incorrect leveling during pool setup.
How to fix it:
- Drain the pool and re-level the ground using sand or a ground cloth.
- Use a tamper or plate compactor for a smooth surface.
- Install a foam or padded pool base to prevent shifting.
Recommended Product:
Blue Wave Gorilla Floor Padding – Thick, puncture-resistant padding that smooths out pool bottoms and protects liners from rocks and roots.
6. Filter Cartridge Clogging Too Quickly
Why does it happen?
Filter cartridges in Bestway pools are small and clog fast if there’s too much debris, sunscreen, or algae in the water.
Direct Answer: Filter cartridges clog quickly when there’s too much organic material in the water or the cartridge isn’t cleaned often enough.
Fixes:
- Clean cartridges every few days with a garden hose and spray nozzle.
- Use a clarifier or flocculant to bind fine particles.
- Upgrade to a sand filter system for better filtration.
Recommended Product:
Pool Mate Concentrated Clarifier – Helps your filter trap small particles, reducing cartridge clogging and keeping water crystal clear.
7. Rust or Corrosion on Frame Pools
Why does it happen?
Bestway Steel Pro and Power Steel frames can rust over time, especially in humid or saltwater environments.
Direct Answer: Rust appears when metal frame components are exposed to water without proper drying or protective coating.
How to prevent or fix it:
- Dry off the metal frame after rain or pool use.
- Apply a rust-protective spray or sealant to vulnerable areas.
- Use touch-up paint if rust appears to prevent spreading.
Recommended Product:
Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray – Converts existing rust into a paintable surface and protects against future corrosion. Great for steel pool frames.
8. Water Loss or Evaporation
Why is the water disappearing?
Water loss in Bestway pools can come from evaporation, leaks, or splashing—especially with kids playing.
Direct Answer: Bestway pools lose water through natural evaporation, unnoticed leaks, or excessive splashing during use.
What to do:
- Cover the pool when not in use to reduce evaporation.
- Check for wet spots under the pool that may signal a slow leak.
- Use a water leveler or refill manually every few days during hot weather.
Recommended Product:
Sun2Solar Pool Cover – Reduces water loss from evaporation and helps retain heat. Perfect for round and rectangular Bestway pool models.
Tips to Avoid Bestway Pool Problems
- Use a ground cloth: Prevents punctures and improves levelness.
- Check chemistry weekly: Keep pH between 7.2 and 7.6 and chlorine between 1–3 ppm.
- Clean the filter often: Clogged filters reduce flow and lead to green water.
- Cover your pool: Prevents debris, UV damage, and water loss.
- Drain properly for winter: Freeze damage can crack the liner if water is left standing.
Conclusion: Keep Your Bestway Pool in Top Shape
Bestway pools are an awesome way to enjoy summer without a big investment—but they do need care. Most issues, from green water to leaking liners, are easy to fix once you know what to look for.
Want to enjoy crystal-clear water all season? Follow the steps above, stock up on the right products, and stay consistent with your cleaning and maintenance routine. A few small fixes can make a big difference in how well your Bestway pool performs and how long it lasts.