Above Ground Pools · Connection Kits
Get the right connection kit first time.
Every above-ground pool setup is a little different. The kit you need depends on your pool, pump, filter and heat pump combination — so before you order, talk to us. We'll make sure you get exactly what you need.
Talk to us before you order
Two minutes on the phone saves a lot of hassle later.
Connection kits aren't one-size-fits-all. Pool hose diameter, pump inlet size, heat pump fittings, bypass kits, and whether you're using solid pipe or semi-rigid hose all change what you need. Send us a quick enquiry or give us a call and we'll spec the kit for your exact setup.
What decides which kit you need
Your pool connection size. Above-ground pools come with different outlet sizes — commonly 32 mm (1.25") or 38 mm (1.5"). The kit has to match this, or you'll be stepping between sizes with reducers.
Your pump and filter. Intex, Bestway, iFlo Junior, iFlo 500, Krystal Clear — each uses slightly different fittings. Some use semi-rigid 50 mm hose, others use solid 1.5" PVC pipe.
Your heat pump. Heat pumps introduce bypass kits, unions, and additional fittings depending on the model. A Thermotec Mini needs a different setup to a Zealux or Sunspring unit.
Whether you want bypass control. A bypass kit lets you isolate or throttle the heat pump without shutting the main filtration circuit — useful in winter, or when cleaning. Not every setup needs one.
Why order with us
We spec it for you
Tell us your pool, pump, filter and heat pump and we tell you exactly what kit and accessories to order — no guessing.
No missing bits
The most common mistake is a missing adaptor or clip. We check the full bill of materials before you check out.
Real pool people
Our team has installed hundreds of these setups. Call us — you won't be routed through a generic contact centre.
Want the full technical reference?
Read the connection guide.
If you'd rather work it out yourself first, our full technical guide covers every combination of pool connection size, pump, filter and heat pump — with a reference table of which kit fits what.
Read the pipe connection guideCommon questions
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which connection kit I need?
The kit you need depends on four things: your pool connection size (commonly 32 mm / 1.25" or 38 mm / 1.5"), your pump and filter model (Intex, Bestway, iFlo Junior, iFlo 500 etc.), your heat pump model, and whether you want a bypass to isolate the heat pump from the main circuit. Rather than guess, send us your setup details and we will specify the exact kit and any adaptors you need before you check out.
What is the difference between 32 mm and 38 mm pool connections?
32 mm (1.25") is the smaller, more common outlet on entry-level above-ground pools such as most Intex and smaller Bestway models. 38 mm (1.5") is used on larger pools, wooden pools, and most heat-pump-ready setups. The two are not interchangeable without adaptors, and running an undersized pipe into a heat pump will restrict flow enough to trip the unit's safety cut-out. Check the size stamped on your pool's wall fitting, not the external pipe diameter.
Do I need a bypass kit?
A bypass kit is not always essential, but we recommend one if you have a heat pump. It lets you isolate the heat pump for winter storage, cleaning, or servicing without shutting down the whole filtration circuit, and it lets you throttle flow to match the heat pump's ideal range. For plug-and-play units on smaller pools, a bypass is optional; for anything from 7 kW upwards, it is strongly recommended.
Can I use any connection kit with any heat pump?
No. Heat pumps have a minimum flow rate requirement listed in their specification — if the pipe and pump combination does not deliver that flow, the heat exchanger will overheat and the unit will shut down. The iFlo Junior pump, for example, only matches heat pumps up to about 7 kW; larger models need the iFlo 500. Matching pump, filter, kit and heat pump correctly is the single most common thing that goes wrong on DIY installs, which is why we ask for your full setup before recommending a kit.
What if I'm not sure what size my pool connection is?
Do not measure the external diameter of the hose — pipe standards vary and external diameter alone is unreliable. Look for a size stamp on the pool wall fitting itself (it will read 32 mm, 38 mm, or 1.5"). If it's not obvious, send us a photo of the fitting and your pump inlet and we will identify it for you.
Ready to get the right kit?
Send us your pool model, pump, and heat pump — we'll come back the same day with the exact kit list.