When considering a new pool for your backyard, one of the most important measurements you’ll need to understand is the size of the pool. If you’re looking at a round pool that’s 20 feet in diameter, you might be wondering exactly how many square feet of space that will take up. Whether you’re planning for installation, buying a cover, or just figuring out how much room you need, knowing the square footage of your pool is crucial.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to calculate the square footage of a 20-foot round pool, answer related questions, and give you a comprehensive understanding of pool sizing. So, let’s dive in and break it down.
What Does “20 ft Round Pool” Mean?
Before we dive into calculations, let’s take a moment to understand the term “20 ft round pool.” When a pool is described as “round,” it refers to the shape of the pool, which is circular. The “20 ft” part refers to the diameter of the pool, meaning the measurement of the pool from one side to the other, passing through the center.
Unlike rectangular or oval pools, round pools are uniform in every direction, so the diameter is the key measurement you need to consider when calculating its size.
How Do You Calculate the Square Footage of a Round Pool?
To calculate the square footage of a round pool, we use a simple mathematical formula. The area of a circle (which is the shape of your round pool) is calculated using the following formula:
Area = π × r²
Where:
- π (Pi) is approximately 3.14159
- r is the radius of the pool (half the diameter)
Since we know the diameter of the pool is 20 feet, we can easily find the radius by dividing the diameter by 2:
Radius (r) = 20 feet ÷ 2 = 10 feet
Now, let’s plug that into the formula to calculate the area:
Area = 3.14159 × 10²
Area = 3.14159 × 100
Area ≈ 314.16 square feet
So, a 20-foot round pool has an area of approximately 314.16 square feet.
What is the Importance of Knowing the Square Footage of Your Pool?
Knowing the square footage of your pool isn’t just for curiosity’s sake – it has several practical uses. Here’s why it matters:
- Pool Covers: When buying a pool cover, you need to know the exact area to ensure it fits. An incorrectly sized cover could leave parts of your pool exposed to debris and sunlight, affecting the cleanliness of the water.
- Chemical Treatment: The amount of pool chemicals you need, such as chlorine or shock treatments, is often calculated based on the square footage of the pool. If your pool size isn’t accurate, you might end up using too much or too little chemicals, which can affect water balance and swimmer safety.
- Filtration and Equipment: Your pool’s filtration system, pump, and heater are sized based on the volume of water and the square footage. Properly sized equipment will ensure that your pool is well-maintained, clean, and comfortable for swimming.
- Landscaping and Decking: When planning for poolside landscaping, decking, or other features, you need to account for the space around the pool. Knowing the exact square footage allows you to plan better and make the most of your available space.
What is the Volume of a 20 ft Round Pool?
Now that you know the square footage of the pool’s surface area, you might be wondering how much water your 20 ft round pool holds. The volume of a pool depends not just on the diameter but also on its depth.
For simplicity, let’s assume your pool has a standard depth of 4 feet. The formula for calculating the volume of a round pool is:
Volume = π × r² × d
Where:
- r is the radius
- d is the depth of the pool
Using the previous information (radius = 10 feet), and assuming the depth is 4 feet, we get:
Volume = 3.14159 × 10² × 4
Volume = 3.14159 × 100 × 4
Volume ≈ 1,256.64 cubic feet
To convert cubic feet into gallons (since pool volume is often measured in gallons), we multiply by 7.48 (the number of gallons in a cubic foot):
Volume in gallons = 1,256.64 × 7.48
Volume ≈ 9,404.78 gallons
So, a 20-foot round pool with a 4-foot depth holds approximately 9,405 gallons of water.
How Long Does It Take to Fill a 20 ft Round Pool?
Filling your pool can take a bit of time, depending on the water flow rate of your hose or fill system. The average residential water flow rate is around 10 to 15 gallons per minute.
Let’s assume you’re using a hose that delivers 10 gallons per minute:
Time = Volume ÷ Flow Rate
Time = 9,405 gallons ÷ 10 gallons per minute
Time = 940.5 minutes (or about 15.7 hours)
This is a rough estimate, and actual time may vary based on factors like water pressure and hose diameter. If the flow rate is higher, such as 15 gallons per minute, you could expect to fill the pool in about 10.5 hours.
What Is the Ideal Depth for a 20 ft Round Pool?
The depth of your pool plays a crucial role in determining both the pool’s volume and its usability. For a 20 ft round pool, the ideal depth depends on what you plan to use the pool for.
- Shallow Pools (3-4 feet): Perfect for casual swimmers, kids, and relaxation. This depth is also ideal if you want to save on water costs or plan to use the pool primarily for lounging and cooling off.
- Deeper Pools (5-6 feet): If you plan to do more swimming or diving, a deeper pool is better. However, deeper pools will require more water and more chemicals to maintain, making them slightly more expensive to care for.
- Custom Depths: Many round pools can be customized to have different depths at various points, such as a shallow area that gradually deepens. These pools offer versatility, but also require careful planning in terms of volume and filtration.
How Much Does a 20 ft Round Pool Cost?
The cost of a 20-foot round pool can vary greatly depending on factors like material, brand, features, and installation. On average, an above-ground pool in this size range may cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 or more.
- Basic above-ground pools (without added features like decking or lighting) may be closer to the $1,500 to $3,000 range.
- Premium pools with features like enhanced filtration systems, high-quality materials, or additional accessories like ladders and covers may cost between $3,000 and $5,000 or more.
- In-ground pools are much more expensive, typically starting at $20,000 and going up from there depending on customization.
It’s always a good idea to get quotes from multiple pool installers to get an accurate estimate for your area.
How Can You Maintain a 20 ft Round Pool?
Proper maintenance is essential to keeping your pool in good condition throughout the swimming season. Here are some basic tips for maintaining a 20-foot round pool:
- Regular Cleaning: Use a skimmer net to remove debris from the surface, and brush the pool walls regularly to prevent algae buildup.
- Filtration: Ensure your pool’s filtration system is running efficiently. Clean the filter regularly to ensure clean water circulation.
- Chemical Balance: Test the water chemistry regularly and adjust the pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels to keep the water safe and balanced.
- Covering the Pool: When not in use, cover the pool with a proper pool cover to prevent debris from entering the water and to help maintain water temperature.
- Winterizing: If you live in an area with cold winters, you may need to winterize your pool by draining some of the water and covering it for the season.
Is a 20 ft Round Pool the Right Size for You?
A 20-foot round pool is a great size for families who want a manageable yet spacious swimming area. Whether you’re looking for a pool to relax in during the summer, keep the kids entertained, or just cool off on a hot day, this size offers a balance of space and affordability.
Now that you know how to calculate the square footage, volume, and other important details, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision about your pool. Remember, understanding the size and maintenance of your pool will ensure a fun, safe, and enjoyable experience for years to come.
Is a 20 ft round pool the right size for your backyard? Take the time to measure your available space and consider how much room you need for decking, landscaping, and other outdoor features. Happy swimming!
