Learning Centre
Got a question?
You've come to the right place. We've compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions, from pool installation and maintenance to customization options and council approval. Dive into our FAQs to find the answers you're looking for. Can't find what you need? Don't worry! Our knowledgeable team is just a click away, ready to assist you. Let's make your swimming pool dreams a reality!
General
Why should I choose Swimming Pool Kits Direct?
We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and ensuring that making a pool purchase is as simple as possible.
We have carefully selected top of the range manufacturers and equipment which, where possible, are manufactured here in Australia. We have also considered after-sales and warranty periods for each product so that you don’t have to!
To top it all off, we are a small, family run business which has been in operation for over 10 years. We guarantee that you will be able to speak with a real person every step of the way (no bots here!).
Do you have a showroom?
No. In order to provide the best possible products at the prices we do, we do not have a showroom or have sales people who can come to you. Cutting out the middleman enables us to pass on these huge savings, directly to you.
Where do you service, when are you open and where is your office?
Our manufacturer is located in NSW, our head office is in Sydney, NSW, and our second office is in Brisbane, QLD.
We service the whole East Coast of Australia, from Mackay down to Geelong.
We are open Monday to Friday from 9 am - 4 pm.
Why choose a fibreglass pool over a concrete or vinyl liner pool?
Our DIY fibreglass pools have excellent longevity and that comes with a 25 year lifetime structural warranty.
Unlike a concrete pool, it is a non-porous material, so you do not need to use as many chemicals in your swimming pool. The fibreglass also has a very smooth surface, unlike concrete, making it more enjoyable for little (and big) feet. Vinyl are very cost-saving however, they can rip and the liner will need replacing every 5-10 years.
Fibreglass pools are also warmer than their competitors, allowing you to use the pool for longer each year.
For more information on the difference between concrete and fibreglass pools, please visit our blog.
Can you come to my property and help me decide which pool would be best suited?
Unfortunately not. We are online based and don't offer site visits. Our team is very knowledgeable and can help as best as possible over the phone or via email. If we have details of an installer in your area, we can put you in touch.
My yard is only small. Is a fibreglass plunge pool worth it?
Most definitely! A plunge pool is a great way to transform a small yard into a usable oasis. The possibilities are endless - spa jets, swim jet and water features. Also, with our extensive range, a plunge pool no longer means you only have the option of a flat bottomed pool. Take a look at our Yarra or Lennox models.
Can I change my order after I've paid my deposit?
Most definitely, but only up until a month before your delivery date. This is because our pools are specifically made to order. You are able to modify your equipment oder until two weeks prior to delivery.
What is the lead time on your pools?
Generally 4-6 weeks from the date of your deposit however occasionally we can expedite this with our manufacturer. At peak times there may be a slightly longer lead time but we will work with you to find a suitable delivery date.
Are there any hidden costs?
Our pool cost calculator is an estimation so it is best to send through an enquiry so that we can put together an itemised quotation. We speak to every customer prior to putting together their quotation so we can best understand their individual requirement. Our quotes are itemised and include delivery.
Do you offer mineral pools?
Yes! In fact we only offer mineral pools (they can be run as salt or chlorinated systems as well if preferred). We have a range of options available so chat to our team today for more information.
Can my pool have a Naked Freshwater System?
Most definitely. Just let us know and we can add it to your quotation.
I just want a saltwater pool. Is this possible?
All of our equipment is compatible with a standard salt water system. Let us know and we will remove the bags of minerals from your package.
I've had a few quotes from full service pool companies and they're way over our budget. Can Swimming Pool Kits Direct help?
Don't panic, your dreams of owning a pool aren't crushed. Give us a call and our staff will talk you through what your requirements and budget constraints are. Our DIY fibreglass pool kits don't compromise on quality but often we can save you thousands on your pool project.
How much will I save by going ahead with Swimming Pool Kits Direct?
That's really up to you. You will save the most money by doing the installation yourself, although you will still save a good chunk of change by using a local pool installer. The actual amount will depend on your chosen equipment package and finishes (coping, balustrades, landscaping etc).
Do you deliver all over Australia?
At present we deliver to VIC, NSW and QLD.
When is the best time to build a pool?
Anytime. If you want to start enjoying it straight away, get building in winter/ spring. If using a professional installer, you may be bound by their availability, so plan ahead.
How do I winterise my pool?
Chances are there will be a few months each year where you will not be using your pool. Instead of shutting it off and waiting for the ducks to call it home, there are a few easy steps you can take to ensure it's a quick and easy process to get it looking sparkling again for summer. Head over to our blog for a step-by-step guide.
Fibreglass Pool Shells
What sets your pool shells apart?
Our fibreglass pool shells are made to order right here in Australia. This means that we don't offer factory seconds nor do we have a warehouse with pools stacked up gaining dust and imperfections. They are delivered to your kerbside directly from our manufacturer and are held to the highest Australian standards. They also come with a 25 year lifetime structural warranty and a 3 year gelcoat warranty.
Where are your fibreglass pools made?
Yes, our pool shells are made in NSW and according to Australian Standards. Each pool is made with your colour choice and delivered direct from the manufacturer to your front kerb. We don't sell seconds or put pools into storage as we want the best for our customers.
What does the pool shell come with?
As a standard, our pool shells come with a skimmer box, hydrostatic valve, 2 x pool returns, engineering drawings and delivery. We have a great range of equipment packages though. You can check them out here.
Can all of your fibreglass pool shells be used above ground and inground?
No. We have specific above ground and inground pool models. Above ground pools require additional supports (a fit kit) whilst our inground pool models need to be completely enclosed within the ground. If you are unsure which option you require, give us or your local pool installer a call.
Can I customise the pool shape and size?
Unfortunately not. Our pools are made from precast moulds that are specific to the designs seen on our website. We have a large range to choose from so if you are unsure which to go with, please give our friendly team a call.
Are the sizes on your website internal or external measurements?
All of our pools include both the internal and external measurements so you can be certain you've chosen the best size for your pool's location. The sizes do not include the bond beam measurements so please take this into account.
Can you send me colour samples?
We don't have samples to post out however we do have a considerable collection of photographs showing the various colour options at different times of the day. Please head over to our instagram page.
Will the colour of my fibreglass pool fade over time?
With the correct maintenance your pool should not fade and will still look beautiful in years to come. The gel coat comes with a 3 year warranty. To extend the life even longer, consider a pool cover. We have a great range to choose from such as above ground and inground roller/ covers.
Do the shells come pre-plumbed?
No. With the exception of the Cleopatra, Ambassador and Daintree Spa, our pools come with the hydro valve and skimmer box pre-cut but not plumbed. Some models are able to be pre-plumbed at an additional cost. If this is something you may require, please let us know and we can chat further.
Why fibreglass pool shells and not concrete?
We have a great blog on this! Head on over to read a more in depth reasoning but in short - fibreglass pools are easier to maintain, warmer, softer underfoot, look great for longer, have longer warranty periods and are quicker to install.
Are the steps of a fibreglass pool slippery?
No. The steps will only be slippery if your chemicals are not balanced.
Can I install tiles to the waterline?
Yes, you can actually tile the whole pool if desired. Please note that specialty adhesive is required. Please note, this may void the gelcoat warranty. Instead, take a look at our great colour range over on instagram!
Equipment
This will be my first pool. What equipment do I need?
Luckily we know (almost) everything about pools and can definitely help you with this. Our signature package includes everything you need to set up a beautiful, sparkling, mineral pool but there are many ways to upgrade including a variable speed pump, automated chlorinator or robotic cleaner. We also have a VIP package which includes top of the line equipment plus remote daily monitoring of your pool. You can find our package options here.
Other options include a MagnaPool or Naked Freshwater system. Contact us to have a chat about your pool requirements.
What is the difference between a media and cartridge filter?
Both complete the same job, collecting dirt and debris. There are positives (and a few negatives) to each. A media filter requires less maintenance in the way of backwashing once every 4-6 weeks. It will also need to be connected to the water mains. A cartridge filter is much smaller (perfect if you're down on space) but does need more maintenance with cleaning every 2-3 weeks.
How much will it cost to heat my pool?
There are so many considerations to take into account when answering this question and this largely depends on if you're wanting to swim all year round or just to extend the summer season by 6 months (and of course, your pool size). It can cost as little as an additional $150 per year.
When purchasing a heater, we recommend adding a pool cover which will help keep the heat in (and also keep the pool clean of debris). We have a number of heating options such as electric, gas and solar. Have a chat to our team today.
What are the differences between your equipment packages?
We have three main packages available: Signature, Platinum and our VIP Butler.
Our VIP Butler package includes top of the line equipment completely personalised to your pool and requirements plus a year subscription to My Pool Butler. This is a unique experience where your pool is remotely monitored every hour, every day.
The differences between our Signature and Platinum Packages can be seen below:
Item | Signature Package | Platinum Package |
Pump | Astral CTX 280C Single-Speed Pump | Viron P320 Variable Speed Pump |
Chlorinator | E Series Chlorinator | Astral Halo Salt/Mineral Chlorinator |
Filter | Astral CA 280 25" 40mm MPV | Astral CA 280 25" 40mm PV |
Minerals | Element Magnesium Minerals (magnesium blend) | MagnaPool Magnesium Minerals |
Cleaner | AX 20 Suction Cleaner | Maytronics Robotic Cleaner |
Lights | 2 x Multicoloured SPA Electrics Lights | 2 x Multicoloured SPA Electrics Lights |
Handover Kit | Yes | Yes |
CPR Chart | Yes | Yes |
Chemical Starters | Yes | Yes |
What is the difference between the E Series Chlorinator and the Astra Halo Chlorinator?
THe Halo Chlorinator is able to control your pool equipment remotely via a phone app. With the use of AI, it effectively controls your pool filtration and sanitisation needs. You are able to connect a heater and lights as well to streamline your new pool's system.
The E Series Chlorinator offers sanitisation at an affordable cost whilst being robust and easy to install.
Which filtration pumps do you offer?
We have three main pumps available. Included with our Signature Package is the Astral CTX 280C Single Speed Pump. It's a great, cost effective pump suitable for all of our pools.
The Viron P320 Variable Speed Pump is included with our Platinum Package. This pump offers energy savings due to being variable speed.
The Hayward Tristar TS540 Variable Speed Pump is part of our VIP Butler Package. It is one of the most energy efficient pumps on the market today and can save you up to 90% on your energy costs. It is also incredibly quiet.
What is the difference between a suction cleaner and a robotic cleaner?
Suction cleaners are a great, budget friendly option. They provide basic cleaning by sporadically moving around your pool surface. These cleaners run on your pool's filtration system and therefore all debris is collected within your skimmer basket.
Robotic cleaners are initially more expensive however the used AI to ensure all internal surfaces of your pool are cleaner and scrubber. It used its own independent system so does require for debris to be manually cleaned from its basket. We have cordless options available as well.
Can I add a heater at a later date?
You can, as long as your installer has made allowances for the pipework prior to initial installation. It's best to do this anyway in case you do decide to install one later down the track.
Can I add spa jets?
Yes! You can add spa jets to any of our pools. Many of our past customers have added these to the steps of their pool for an added element of relaxation!
Can I include a swim jet?
Of course! We have a few to choose from depending on if you'll be using it for recreational swimming or olympic training!
My pool has been installed but I've just realised I would really like a few more lights.
Unfortunately lights need to be inserted and wired during the installation phase. This is why we include 2 lights with all of our equipment package and can add extras if requested. Another option is to add lighting to your general pool area.
Why do you mainly use Astral equipment?
Astral is one of the top equipment manufacturers in Australia. With over 30+ years, their products are reliable and built to stand the test of time and the harsh Australian elements. Most reputable pool technicians know Astral's products should your require servicing.
What happens if my pool equipment needs servicing or parts?
We took this into consideration when choosing Astral as our main filtration equipment provider. Astral have distribution centres throughout Australia and are manufactured in VIC. Parts will be readily available should you need them. Furthermore, Astral has an authorised repair network available across Australia.
Please give us a call and we can help put you in touch.
Installation
Do you offer installation?
No. We are a DIY fibreglass pool company. Depending upon your location, we can usually put you in touch with a local pool installer who previous customers have used and recommended. Please note that they are completely independent (and we receive no kickbacks!).
How long will installation take?
That's the beauty of do it yourself fibreglass pools, whilst they can be fully installed in as little as 7 days, you can also take as long as you like. Just make sure that the pool shell is stored correctly. This also doesn't take into account the approval process which can take days, weeks, or months depending on the size of works and your council.
How does it work with your company? Will you visit my installation site?
We are a completely online business; we do not have storefronts or showrooms, which enables us to keep our costs down to pass on these savings to our customers.
Once you know that you want a pool, you can decide on your pool by viewing our pool range online. Choosing a size and shape can sometimes be daunting for people. We recommend that you jump on your local council's website and determine your boundary requirements. Once you know these, you can narrow down a size and shape that will work for you.
After you have chosen a size and shape, we can send you a quote for the complete kit. This includes your swimming pool shell, pool filtration equipment, and the documentation that makes up part of your approvals and delivery.
We can also provide additional equipment to get the pool of your dreams.
As a business, we do not get directly involved in the installation process; however, we have a network of private contractors who have previously installed for our customers that we can recommend to you. These contractors will facilitate the entire installation process for you.
You have a few options regarding your approval process.
What dimensions do I need to excavate to?
We will provide all the required documentation and details once your deposit has been paid. You can then pass on this information to your excavator.
I ordered an inground pool but now that the pool has arrived I realise I need an above ground model. What are my options?
In order for one of our inground pools to be installed above ground, a heavily engineered retaining wall will be required. Please call us and we will help where possible.
Do I need to have a fence around my pool?
Yes. For any pool built after 1991, a suitable fence needs to be erected to reduce the risk of preventable drownings. The rules are very specific and not only cover the fence height but also locks and gates. Your pool will not be awarded a certificate of compliance until the guidelines have been met.
We love your quotation but can't find an installer in our area. Help!
Call us! We'll see if we can help to locate one for you. Other options include reaching out to your local pool shop as they may have an installer on their books. Alternatively, you could engage trades separately such as an excavator, crane, tiler, electrician etc.
Will I void the warranty if I install the pool as an owner builder?
No, as long as your pool is installed in accordance with Australian Standard 1839:2021 Fibreglass Pool Installation.
I'm not a builder. Can I still install the pool myself?
Yes! Anyone is able to install a pool however each state is different. In most cases, an owner builder permit is required. This can be obtained by doing a short online course.
I'm wanting to install the pool myself but need an Owner Builder licence. How can I obtain this?
We have a working relationship with Absolute Education. Their Owner Builder courses can be completed online within 2-3 hours and cost $185, which is paid upon certification.
Council Approval
Should I apply to council first?
Once you select your pool and pay your deposit, we will provide all the required engineering drawings for your application. If you receive a notice of decline, please provide this to us and we will issue a full refund of your deposit within 7 days.
How do I get approval for the pool?
We understand that getting approval for your swimming pool can be daunting, so we have broken if down for you below to help ease you into the process:
* check your state and local council area's requirements.
* pay your deposit. This is risk free as the deposit is fully refundable should council knock you back.
* once your deposit has been received, you will be supplied with all required engineering plans for your application.
* you have three options when it comes to approvals - DA, CDC or Private Certifier.
Do all pools require a DA?
No, some can be built with a CDC. Please check with your local council.
How far from the boundary does my pool need to be?
Each council is different so you will need to check their requirements. This information can be found on their website under planning and development.
What size pool will be allowed in my property?
Every property and council is different. The size will depend on the distances to your boundary, buildings and subground infrastructure (storm water, sewer lines and mains etc). Please check this with your council and certifier.
Once completed, who provides certification?
If you have engaged a private certifier they will complete and check off the final certification requirements. If you applied through council, an officer will inspect upon completion.
What will council require for our application?
Usually, a pool application to council will require a site plan detailing where the pool will be situated along with drawings of the pool. We are able to provide all required pool engineering drawings however you may be required to engage a private site planner or engineer depending on your land.
Council have declined my application. Can I have my deposit back?
Yes. If your council declines your pool application, please email the notice of decline through and we will refund your deposit in full within 7 days.
Finance
Do you offer finance?
We recommend HandyPay who are an Australian finance company offering competitive rates and no early payout fees. We don't receive any incentives.
How much is the deposit?
Regardless of which pool or package you choose, the deposit is the same - $2000.
How long do I have to pay off the remainder of my invoice?
The invoice needs to be paid in full a month prior to delivery. This is because every pool is made to order. How you pay between your deposit and when the final amount is due is up to you. You're welcome to pay in one lump sum or over several amounts.
Do you take cash?
No. We are an online business and this extends to our payment processes. You will be required to pay via Stripe.
Delivery
Can I choose a delivery date and time?
To save on delivery costs, our drivers deliver on set days to each location and will aim to deliver as early as possible (usually between 8-9am). This will be arranged depending on you/ your installer's availability to commence installation.
Will the pool be delivered directly into its location?
Our contract is to deliver to your kerbside however, if you have clear access to the pool site, we can provide the delivery drivers details for you to have a chat with them. This would need to be arranged with them directly.
What size crane will I need to organise?
This really depends on where your pool is going and what obstacles are in the way. We can provide the pool shell's weight so you are able to obtain an accurate quotation from a crane company. If there is level access, a crane might not be required at all.
My project has been delayed. Can I store the pool with you?
If this is the case, let us know asap and we will try to stall our manufacturing process. If this is a last minute delay, you may need to store onsite.
My pool has arrived but I am no longer able to install immediately. How can I store it?
To safely store your pool shell, please turn upside down (on something soft to reduce the risk of damage) and strap down securely. Believe it or not, one of our customers has had their pool blow away!
We also recommend covering with a tarp to reduce any cosmetic damage.
Purchasing
Do you include delivery in the price?
Yes, your price includes delivery and all the necessary filtration equipment.
How long does it take for delivery?
You will need to pay a $2000 deposit to get a delivery date. Once that is received, we will work with you on a timeline for delivery. We usually work with a 2-month lead time, depending on availability.
If I don’t get an approval, can I get a refund?
As mentioned in our T&Cs, which are available on all quotes, it states that a deposit will only be refunded if a customer has their Council pool approval rejected. If there is a valid reason regarding this and we have the paperwork from the government body, then we will issue a refund, minus a $250 administration fee.
Can I choose a different colour or modify the pool to my needs?
Yes, your pool colour can be changed; we have 10 premium shimmer colours to choose from.
Customising a pool shape or size is not something we are able to do, as the pools are moulded from precast shapes that are specific to the shells you see on our website.
Maintenance
Is the filtration equipment good quality?
One of our points of difference is the quality of our equipment. We use a family business based in Sydney that supplies high-quality equipment specifically for Australian conditions.
The supplier provides market-leading products, and the quality of after-sales service is exceptional. The equipment isn't cheap, but we prefer it that way as you will save money in the long run!
We're able to source many different brands so if you have a particular brand of product in mind then just let us know and we can create a customised package.
What is the warranty on the pool shell? Do you have after-sales service?
The pools come with a 25-year warranty from the manufacturer, covering the pool's structural integrity.
All the equipment comes with manufacturer's warranties, ranging from 1 to 25 years, depending on the product. These are all itemised for you on your quote and in the equipment upgrades brochure.
If you notice that something needs to be fixed, or you have a general question about your pool or a piece of equipment, then our friendly staff will look after this for you.
If it is a fault with your equipment, our supplier's technical support team will contact you within five business days (usually sooner). You are also given their details so that you can follow up if you choose.
What is the difference between a suction cleaner and a robotic cleaner?
Suction cleaners have a rich history; many of us can recall either attempting to capture them in the pool or feeling afraid of their presence! Over the years, these cleaners have made significant advancements. While their fundamental principle remains connecting to your skimmer box and operating in sync with the filtration suction and run time, they have evolved with wheels that allow them to manoeuvre along the pool floor gracefully and even ascend the pool walls.
One issue with suction cleaners is that they are in your swimming pool 24/7. Another problem is that whilst the suction cleaners are connected to your skimmer box, this is not skimming the top of your swimming pool.
Robotic cleaners are the new kid on the block and are a fantastic help for people who want a thoroughly cleaned pool. Robotic cleaners need to be lifted in by hand, and they are gently lowered, letting out all the air bubbles and then sink to the bottom of the pool. After being switched on, they will work on their inbuilt GPS to clean the bottom and sides up to the coping, seats and step areas.
After they have finished their cycle, you will fish it out of the pool, let it drain, rinse the small leaf basket, and put it away until the next time you require it.
What is a skimmer box? Does the pool come with a hydro-valve?
Your swimming pool is delivered with a skimmer box and two return valves. These are installed into the pool once on-site.
A hydro-valve is at the bottom of your pool and is screwed into place once on-site. This prevents the pool from building up pressure and popping out of the ground if water gets stuck under the pool.
Cuts are made for return eyeball jets and placed in the shell once on-site. They move the water towards the skimmer so that the water can flow through your pool filtration. They are not pre-cast into the shell and will be cut by your installer once the shell is in the excavated hole.
Double Your
Swimming Time
for a Few Extra Dollars
Your swimming pool plays a significant role in your family life; as a place to swim, relax, exercise, and cool off–but as the weather turns colder, your pool isn’t utilised often–yet you still have to maintain it.
The good news is that heating your pool could cost much less than you think, and the return on your investment could be to double or triple your usual swimming time! Make the most of your pool and stop spending half the year (or more) cleaning and paying for it without any benefit.