Frequently Asked Questions
What size pools do you offer?
We offer pools in 8-foot, 9-foot, 10-foot, and 11-foot sizes. Please be advised that there is a +/- 4-6inch variance in size due to the nesting nature of the tanks during manufacturing and transportation. As of 4/5/23, we’re currently on about a 2-3 week turn around time.
What type of tank do you use?
We are authorized Hasting dealers. We receive our tanks directly from the manufacturer in Hastings, Nebraska. We use Hastings Black Label tanks, which are industry-leading 20 gauge galvanized steel. Please note that any modifications done to the tank by anyone other than SS&Co voids tank warranty.
I like to DIY. Do you sell just the tanks?
Yes we do! See our shop page for options for tanks. Prices listed include curbside delivery of an unmodified tank within 50 miles of 78701.
What do I need to do to get ready for my tank installation?
After purchasing your pool, we’ll reach out to schedule your delivery window. Then it’s time for you to get to work preparing your site! You’ll need the following:
A solid, level surface: not necessarily concrete, but something level and strong enough to support the filled weight of the pool (6000 to 10000 lbs). You want to make sure to keep the surface clear of any rocks or other objects that could damage your tank. Please note we do NOT do any leveling or site preparation.
Delivery access: Please make sure there is a clear path to where your pool will go. It needs to be at least 3 feet wide and at least the height of the diameter of your pool. The team CANNOT lift the tanks over fences or walls.
Power: We recommend a standard outdoor GFCI outlet within 10 feet of the pool for the equipment. If you don’t have one, you’ll need a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord (at least 14 gauge that can handle at least 13 amps). Please be advised we recommend a grounded plug and caution against the use of extension cords. If you are purchasing a heated pool, your outlet needs to be a quad outlet; if you’re utilizing an extension cord for your heated pool, you need one with at least 3 plugs. Refer to our Amazon list for extension cord suggestions.
Heater: If you are purchasing a heated pool, you will need a mounting surface for the heater within 6 feet of the pool (such as the side of the house or a fence). This is required. You will also need a tank of propane.
When your site is ready, let us know and send us a picture so we can make sure we don’t have any delays on install day! If you’re uncertain of anything, we include a free video consultation. We’ll reply back with site approval and confirm the delivery timeline. Please note that if you certify that your site is ready but a requirement is not met upon team’s arrival for installation, you will be subject to a return service charge.
For more information on how to prepare your site and level your area, check out our blogs!
What is included in my purchase?
For a tank purchase, the tank and curbside drop-off is included in your purchase (you’ll need to take it from the curb to its final spot). For pool packages, the following is included: 1) tank 2) heater, if purchased 3) all pump/filter/fittings/hoses to convert into pool 4) chlorine float 5) hand skimmer 6) water chemistry test strips 7) 5 chlorine tablets 8) floating thermometer if heating packaged purchased 9) delivery and installation of all parts. Please note we do not do any leveling or site preparation.
Do you offer cleaning/maintenance services?
We are a very small family business. In order to prove efficient delivery/installation and the best customer service experience, we do not offer any pool cleaning or maintenance services.
What type of filter do you use and why?
We use a cartridge filter/pump system for our pools. These are designed to filter 1,500 gallons of water per hour. Our 8-ft pools are 718 gallons and 11-ft pools are 1,300 gallons, so this cleans the whole 8-foot pool twice in an hour and an 11-foot pool once an hour. In gereral, you want a pump that can turn over all of the water in roughly 8 hours, so this is more than sufficient. We recommend running the pump 2-4 hours a day to keep it extra clean, which is set to be done automatically.
We use cartridge over sand because it is less maintenance (requires monthly or bi-montly changing or rinsing of filter vs. backwashing weekly for a sand filter). Cartridge filters also filter down to a smaller micron level keeping pools cleaner over sand (20 microns vs 10 microns). We use an above-ground pool pump because they are intended for this specific application and have an all plastic housing. Brands with metal on the housing, per National Electric Code, require a licensed electrician to ground and water bond.
What do I need to provide for my pool?
We require a GFCI outlet within 10’ of the installation site. You’ll need to provide your own outdoor extension cord if you do not have an outdoor GFCI available within 10’ of the installation site. If you purchased a heated pool package, you will need a tank of propane and at least 3 outlets (see above).
What can I expect on my installation day?
Besides lots of excitement, you can expect us to arrive at your scheduled time with everything needed for you to get swimming! We will contact you within 48 hours after your purchase to discuss site preparation and schedule delivery. On your receipt and order confirmation, you will be provided with the password to our members only swim party page. The members only page has lots of information on preparation, as well as how to maintain and troubleshoot your pool. We also provide you with a digital copy of this information upon installation.
We will make contact 24 hours prior to your previously scheduled installation day to confirm day, time frame, and address. We will provide you with a 2-hour time frame of when we will arrive on installation day. Please be advised that installation will take approximately 2-hours. We will position the tank, install all parts, fill the tank, and test all equipment to make sure it’s all in working order. We will give you a lesson in pool maintenance. Please have someone 18 years of age or older available to sign for the tank and oversee installation placement.
Do you have an electrician or deck contractor you recommend?
We sure do! We work with an electrician and a custom builder for decks. Please reach out to us if you would like to connect with them for a quote. We are also happy to collaborate with the contractor of your choosing to help make the entire process effortless for you. See our blog post about the process for custom STP decks below:
Do you have a cover, speaker, other accessories you recommend?
Don’t be alarmed by how fast the urge to buy string lights, speakers, and bubble machines comes on once you have your Sister Stocks & Co pool! Here are some of our favorites!
*This is an affiliate link. This means that, at zero cost to you, we may earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.*
What are your recommended safety rules?
Safety is the number one priority. Before purchasing a pool, please make sure you have a secure area. Even though these pools are shallow (24 inches), it only takes a couple of inches to drown so vigilant supervision is vital and children should not be left unattended in the pool. No diving or jumping. If you have pets and/or small children, please be vigilant regarding water safety and consider purchasing or making a hard cover. Remember that layers are key- consider a combination of the use of a hard cover cover, locking gate, video surveillance with motion alarm, and surface tension alarm. Please turn your pump off while the pool is in use.
Does the heated pool reach hot tub temperatures?
The propane heaters add about 10-15 degrees of heat per hour to your tank depending on the ambient temperature, the initial water temperature, and the pool size. Our smaller sized pools are recommended if you are looking to achieve hot tub temperatures above 100 degrees for sustained amounts of time regularly. The larger heated pools are best enjoyed as a warmed pool, although they are capable of reaching hot tub temperatures with enough time and propane. Make sure to cover your pool while you heat it for maximum efficiency. Please reach out to discuss this in more detail if you have any questions.
Does the water stay cool in the summer?
The temperature of your pool depends on multiple variables, such as how much sunlight it receives and how often you run the pump. We recommend keeping your pool in the shade, either by an umbrella or a sun sail. Additionally, the use of a cover and running your pump will help to keep it cool. If you feel that your pool is too warm, you can add fresh water from the hose or some ice.
How do I maintain my pool?
While these pools are very user friendly and much less work than a typical in-ground pool, they do still require maintenance. This includes:
Skimming the pool (at least weekly, more if uncovered)
Checking the water chemistry with test strips (weekly)
Maintaining water chemistry by adding chlorine tablets as needed
Rinsing and /or changing your filter (rinse monthly, change as needed or bi-monthly)
Keeping your pool covered and secured when not supervised for safety
Winterizing your equipment with each temperature drop below freezing
We will provide you with an on-site pool maintenance lesson and written maintenance instructions during your install, as well as the password to our members only swim club with detailed instructions and videos. Here are some tips:
Use chlorine to maintain the water chemistry of your pool. Always use a chlorine float and test your water chemistry weekly. Use only enough chlorine to maintain your pool (about 2 tablets/week)
Use the MINIMUM amount of chlorine possible to keep the water chemistry within the normal limits. Over using chlorine will cause premature rust.
Don’t mix chemicals! If you need to switch chemicals, you need to empty your tank completely and clean/flush before refilling.
Run your filter to circulate the water and help keep the tank clean. Running your pump also helps keep the water temperature cooler during the summer. We will review the ideal pump schedule for your pool upon installation.
Keep your pool covered when not in use. Not only does this help keep your children and pets safe, but it also helps to keep the pool cleaner and the water temp cooler.
If you have an issue and need the team to come out to assist, you will be subject to a return trip fee. Please try troubleshooting with the information on the member area prior to requesting the team to come out.
What do I need to do to prepare for a freeze/winter?
Because Texas winters are typically mild, we recommend you keep your pool filled during the winter to prevent rust. If there is a light freeze, you will want to run your pump continuously to prevent any freezing of the pump. If there is going to be a prolonged freeze, you will need to drain your pump and heater and bring it inside. Also make sure to drain your heater anytime temperatures dip below freezing to prevent damage; you may bring it inside for added protection.
What happens if I forget to winterize my equipment?
If it is determined that equipment, including the pump/filtration system, heat pump, or tankless propane heater requires replacement due to customer negligence, abuse, or misuse, you will be subject to a replacement charge and a return trip fee.
What can I expect my tank to look like?
While we get our tanks directly from the manufacturer and take every measure possible to protect them during storage and delivery, all stock tanks will have minor dents, scuffs, and/or scratching due to their nature. Most scuffs are able to be removed with a magic eraser. These tanks are trucked to us from Nebraska nested inside eachother with no wrapping. They are structurally sound and new, but may have a rustic/imperfect look to them. Upon acceptance of delivery/installation, inspect your tank and make sure it is acceptable. We are unable to swap out tanks after delivery/installation. Please visit our instagram for pictures of our installations to see what you can expect your tank/pool to look like!
Will the tanks rust?
The short answer is- yes, the tanks will eventually rust. However, with proper maintenance, you can expect 2-5+ years out of your tank (we’re going on year 4 with no rust on ours). Remember, these tanks are made to hold water! The number one cause of rust in the tank is too much chlorine. Chlorine eats away the galvanization, which then leaves the metal exposed and vulnerable to rust. By using the smallest amount of chlorine (tablets, not liquid) and always using a chlorine float, you can extend the life of your tank. If you do get rust, there are a few options- see our blog post for more information!
When can I expect tanks and pools to be back in stock?
We currently have all size tanks available for immediate install/delivery on a first-come-first-serve basis. If a size sells out, you can sign up to be notified when it comes back in stock by pulling down the product you want from the drop down menu on the shop page and signing up to be notified!
