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Pools Etc Review

Sunday, February 16th

2025 Swimming Pool Supply Store Reviews

Pools Etc Review 2 Star Rating

Pools Etc

2 Star Rating
  • Thousands of pool, sauna, and hot tub products
  • 30-day return policy
  • Free shipping

Pools Etc. has a wide range of departments for pools, spas, saunas, and outdoor furniture. It is run by a company called Recreation Discount Wholesale. They're an online retail company based out of Walpole, Massachusetts. Their ecommerce websites specialize in home recreation, outdoor living, pools, and spas. Their 15,000+ products ship through a network of over 100 vendors.

Huge selection, no product reviews

Pools Etc. has one of the biggest selections of products we've seen. For any given category like chemicals, motors, heaters, flowmeters, valves, timers, or solar panels, there are tens to hundreds of options. Every item shows a 5-star review as if customers can leave feedback on it, but there aren't actually customer reviews on anything, which was kind of disappointing.

Call for questions

All products have a brief description so you know what to expect, how long it takes for it to ship, model numbers, SKU numbers, and sometimes specifications when applicable. If you don't see enough information listed to confidently make a decision about a particular product (especially if it's a pricey one), Pools Etc. has their phone number listed right at the top of their website and that's the only way to get a hold of their customer service.

20% restocking fees

If you aren't satisfied with your purchase from Pools Etc., you have 30 days to send it back. All products need to be in the condition you received them in and in the original packaging. The downside is that all returns are subject to a 20% restocking fee, so that's not ideal.

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Poor ratings

There have been many complaints filed against Pools Etc. that haven't been resolved, leading the Better Business Bureau to give them an "F” rating. They do have some positive reviews from customers, but there are some troubling ones too. Phrases like, "seriously dishonest company”, "corrupt business practices”, and "long wait with no delivery” have us worried about shopping at Pools Etc.

Not enough favorable ratings

They have some favorable reviews too, though. It seems like it may be totally fine to purchase some pool parts here, but you can't know for sure what your experience will be until you try. It may not be worth the risk when there are higher-rated pool supply stores available at your fingertips.

Stay away from expensive purchases

Since there is such a big assortment of pool supplies available from Pools, Etc., it's tempting to want to browse what they have and buy from here. This might not be an all bad idea, especially if you're buying something less expensive. But if you're going to buy a big pool cover or motor or something pricey, we wouldn't go through with it at Pools Etc. since they have some really poor ratings. Try shopping at a higher-rated, more reliable store for those big-ticket items.

Where is the Best Place to Purchase Swimming Pool Supplies?

If you own a swimming pool, you know that it's not just a place for a relaxing swim - it's also a lot of work. You have to remove debris, continually balance the chemicals, brush the walls to prevent algae and bacteria, filter the water, and more. Floating around while you soak up the sun doesn't come for free.

In addition to the supplies you need for regular pool maintenance, you may want to add pool toys and loungers for your guests of all ages to enjoy. Or even upgrade your patio furniture to provide the best, most relaxing experience. Some people choose to add waterfalls to their pool or slides to make it as fun as possible. It may come as no surprise that many people have turned to the internet to buy their swimming pool supplies.

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Swimming Pool Supply Store FAQ

There seem to be an infinite number of things you can buy to make your swimming pool extra safe and fun! You can buy new pool liners, pool covers, vacuum hoses, floaties, diving boards, slides, chemicals, and even outdoor furniture. Anything you need for your new pool can be purchased online at most swimming pool supply stores.
You don't have to go all out right when you get a pool. You might want to start with the basic necessities like pool chemicals, water test strips, a shock treatment, a filter cleaner, a vacuum, and a pool cover. Once you've gotten used to maintaining your pool, you can add fun toys for people to enjoy, a slide, diving board, and even furniture to lounge on while you aren't in the pool. When purchasing a pool, talk with a customer service agent about everything needed to maintain it and you can quickly order all of it online.
There are a lot of great articles online to help you balance your pool chemicals. In addition, the chemicals you purchase will come with directions to follow to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety. Test strips will tell you if your pool is ready to swim in! Once you get the hang of it, you'll find that managing your pool chemicals isn't too difficult.
Anytime a part to your pool breaks, it should be replaced. This shouldn't happen very often though. For the most part, if you buy pool supplies and store them properly, they should last many years. Every once in a while you might have some toys break or wear out, so it's fun to get something new. The only products you'll need to refill and buy somewhat continually are your chemicals, test strip kits, and other treatments to keep your pool clean.
If you try to buy everything you might possibly want or need for your pool at once, it will be pricey. However, individual pool products don't cost much. Once you get everything you need, your maintenance cost as far as buying new supplies will be minimal. Some of the most expensive products you can buy besides the pool itself is outdoor furniture. These pieces create a relaxing atmosphere for yourself and guests on a sunny day outside. But they aren't totally necessary, so you can still enjoy your swimming pool without them!
Yes! When you purchase pool supplies online, you'll have them delivered straight to your door in about a week. If you're shopping online from a pool supply store that has a brick-and-mortar location near you, you might be able to save some money on shipping if you want to buy from their website and do an in-store pickup. Either way, getting the pool supplies you need could not be more convenient!
The selection of pool supplies you'll find online is much more extensive than what you'll get at any physical location. You can compare prices between companies and even buy from more than one store without having to leave your house! You don't have to worry about making a trip to the store and finding the product you needed is out-of-stock. You can also score better deals online if you take advantage of sales or periodic discount codes that are listed.
Yes! Most pool supply stores have a 30- or 60-day return policy. This means that if you don't use the products you purchase and change your mind about them, you can send them back for a full refund. If you've already installed or used the products, you won't be able to get your money back unless they are defective or missing parts.
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Continued from above...

There are many reasons why online swimming pool purchases have become so popular. First, the convenience of online shopping can't be denied. With just a few clicks, you can browse through extensive catalogs of swimming pool supplies from the comfort of your own home - or on the go. This eliminates the need to visit physical stores, saving you both time and effort. Moreover, online stores are open 24/7, which lets you shop whenever it's most convenient for you.

Shopping online also lets you make more informed purchasing decisions. With detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and comparison tools, you can assess the quality, functionality, and suitability of swimming pool supplies before making a purchase. This goes a long way toward removing the uncertainty often associated with buying products sight unseen.

Undoubtedly, the vast assortment of swimming pool products available online is another reason driving its popularity. Unlike traditional stores limited by physical space, online retailers can offer an extensive range of swimming pool supplies, catering to diverse needs and preferences. Whether you seek basic maintenance equipment, advanced cleaning solutions, or luxurious pool accessories, you can typically find whatever you need online, and often at prices better than at local stores.

Trying to shop in-store for your pool supplies not only takes more time, but it also limits your options. There's nothing more frustrating than getting to the store only to find out that they've got the chlorine you forgot you needed, but they're out of the filter cartridges you actually came for. It's so much more efficient to quickly jump online and find a retailer that has everything you need in one place. This way you can compare prices between stores and you won't even have to leave your couch (or pool deck).

It's important to find a reliable, affordable pool supplier so that owning a pool is more fun than work at the end of the day. When deciding which company to shop from, take the following things into consideration:

  • Selection. If you need a giant watermelon lounger to complete your summer vibe, find somewhere that has what you're looking for and more. You'll always need the essentials, so it's best to have a go-to online store that will give you everything you need in one place.
  • Cost. How does the cost of pool supplies compare between retailers? Some companies run major sales you can take advantage of or have better shipping prices than others, so take these things into account when you're deciding who to buy from. Owning a pool can get expensive, so you'll want to mitigate this as much as possible.
  • Return policy. Companies who are confident in the quality of their products usually offer good return policies. In the event you buy something you don't need or aren't satisfied with your purchase, do you have a fair amount of time to send it all back for a full refund?

Top Consumer Reviews has reviewed and ranked the best companies that sell pool supplies online. We hope this information helps you find everything you need to maintain your pool and enjoy it to its fullest!

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