Intex Above Ground Pools How to Guides and FAQs - Simple Guides for Intex Pools

How to Clean an Intex Pool Filter?

One of the most important parts of owning a pool is maintaining it. This includes cleaning the filter on a regular basis. It is not as difficult as you may think and with this guide, you will be able to clean your Intex pool filter in no time at all.

The first step to cleaning your Intex pool filter is to remove any debris from the top of the filter. You can do this by using a brush and scrubbing away any dirt or other debris that has accumulated on top of the filter. Once you have done that, use a hose to rinse off the dirt and debris from your brush before moving on to step two.

The second step is removing any dirt from inside of your Intex pool filter.

You should have some spare filters so you can leave one set soaking in a bucket with some filter cleaner chemicals without disrupting filtration in the pool. Leave them to dry out completely before returning them to the system. This will help them last longer and reduce costs on replacement filters.

How often should Intex pool pump run?

As a rough guide we say 4 hours out of every 24. However this does depend a lot on a few things. The main concern is if the pump is sufficient for the pool. A big pool with a small pump requires longer filtration times.

So the best answer to how often to run your Intex pool pump is, as and when needed. If the pool needs filtration (cloudy water or dirt and debris) then turn it on. But there’s no point running it when the pool is clean, other than to circulate the water whilst it is being warmed by the sun, solar heating mats, or an electric pool heater. Circulation is required to heat the pool also.

How often should I replace my Intex pool filter?

You should replace Intex pool filters when they start to look a bit worn, prior to total degradation or a drop in filtration effectiveness. How often to replace intex pool filter will depend on how often you run your pump, how dirty the pool gets, and even how much chemicals you use. But take advantage of a discounted box of Intex filters and change them frequently for the clearest water. Buying a box of 6 in advance is more cost effective than buying single units consecutively.

Cleaning you Intex pool filters will extend the lifespan and reduce costs also.

How often should I clean my Intex pool filter?

You should clean Intex pool filters every 1 to 2 weeks. However you should also clean them as soon as you notice filtration effectiveness is less that normal. Or immediately a period of heavy filtration.

How to upgrade from a cartridge filter to an Intex sand filter?

Upgrading to a sand filter takes a fair amount of work from your maintenance duties and is a wise decision if you want the clearest water with the least fuss.

Some of the smaller pools are shipped with cartridge filters which have hoses and connections in 1.25”. So when upgrading to a 2” intex sand filter hose, you will need an adaptor.

How to connect 1.25" hose to 2" sand filter hose?

To connect a 1.25" hose (29059) to a 2" sand filter hose (29060) you will need an adaptor to upgrade to an Intex Sand filter pump to the existing flexi-hose from an old cartridge filter. This is a common problem so we have made a handy connector kit. This connects the 2" (51mm) female thread to a 1.25" (32mm) or a 1.5" (38mm) flexi-hose. See the product here

Are intex pool pumps waterproof?

Intex pool pumps are not waterproof, so they should be placed in a dry place that is at least 2m away from water. This will prevent any damage to the pump and keep it working properly for you. Avoid any excessive splashing, dripping, or squirting of toys in that direction. Consider the maximum splash range of your family and adjust accordingly.

Do Intex pools come with pumps?

Most do. There are some models which do not, so we made a category just for people looking for an Intex pool with pump. Most models are sold with cartridge filter pumps. However there are sand filter pumps, an salt water sanitation sand filter pumps to choose from in the pool equipment section of our website under above ground pool pumps.

Are Intex pools salt-water compatible?

Yes! Not only are Intex pools salt water compatible, but you can now buy Intex salt sanitation sand filter pump systems with an intex salt chlorine generator.

Intex Pool Krystal Clear Saltwater Systems are becoming increasingly popular due to being an eco-friendly pool water sanitisation option. The system combines a unique two-stage technology to sanitise the pool water.

1. An undetectable level of natural swimmer-safe chlorine is produced when environmentally friendly natural salt is added to the pool water and passes trough a titanium electrolytic cell during the filtration process. This results in soft, fresh, clean water with no harsh side effects.
2. With the ECO (electrocatalytic oxidation) process, water molecules are split into highly powerful oxidants which destroy organic contaminants such as bacteria and algae.

The combination of these powerful oxidants with natural chlorine results in the strongest and safest pool water sanitisation. The ECO process unique to Intex, is so effective that it reduces the amount of chlorine needed to be generated by the saltwater system by approximately 60%.

What kind of salt should I use in my Intex salt water system?

Use only sodium chloride (NaCl) salt that is at least 99.8% pure. It is also acceptable to use water conditioning salt pellets (the compressed forms of evaporated salt). However, it will take a longer time for them to dissolve. Do not use iodized or yellow (yellow prussiate of soda) colored salt. Salt is added to the pool water and the electrolytic cell uses the salt to create chlorine. The purer the salt the better the performance of the electrolytic cell.

How much salt do I need for Intex salt sanitation system?

The ideal salt level in the pool water is between 2500-3500 ppm (parts per million). The optimal level is 3000 ppm. A too low salt level will reduce the efficiency of the Saltwater System and result in low chlorine production. A high salt level may generate a salty taste to the pool water (this may occur at a salt level above 3500-4000ppm). Too high a salt level may damage the power supply and cause corrosion to the pool metal fixtures and accessories. The Salt Table page of this manual, shows the correct dosage of salt needed. The salt in the pool is constantly recycled. The loss of salt is due only to pool water being physically removed from the pool. Salt is not lost due to evaporation.

What test strips do I need for my Intex salt water system pool?

The Intex salt water sanitation system can be used with quality brands of chlorine test strips. We recommend AquaChek Chlorine Test Strips (Yellow pack) for the most reliable available. Chlorine test strips can test the “Free Chlorine”, “pH”, “Calcium Hardness” and “Total Alkalinity” levels at the same time. We recommend that you test the water chemistry weekly, and maintain the chlorine concentration at 0.5-3.0 ppm.

How to add salt to Intex salt sanitation systems

1. Switch the filter pump on to start the water circulation.
2. Keep the Saltwater System turned off.
3. Determine the amount of salt to be added (see “Salt Table”).
4. Evenly spread the proper amount of salt around the inside perimeter of the pool.
5. Avoid clogging the filter. Do not add salt through the skimmer.
6. Brush the pool bottom to speed up the dissolving process. Do not allow salt to pile up on the bottom of the pool. Run the filter pump 24 consecutive hours to thoroughly dissolve the salt.
7. After 24 hours and if all the salt is dissolved, turn on the Saltwater System, press button until you hear a “beep”, code “00” flashing and set the saltwater pool system to desired operating time (see “Operating Time Table”).

How to remove salt from Intex salt sanitation systems

If too much salt has been added, the unit will beep and display “Code 92” (see “Alarm Codes”). You will need to lower the salt concentration. The only way to do so, is to partially drain the pool and refill it with fresh water. Drain and refill approximately 20% of the pool’s water until the “Code 92” disappears.

How to set up Intex salt sanitation system?

For instructions on setting up the Intex salt sanitation systems, please refer to the manual.

How to use an Intex salt water pump?

Here are some simple instructions on how to use your Intex salt water pump system.

1. Turn on the filter pump.
2. Start up the unit.
   
   Plug the power cord into the electrical outlet and test the RCD (circuit breaker). Press button. Flashing code “00” appears on the electronic control station’s LED, indicating that the unit is ready to be programmed.
3. Set operating hours for Saltwater system
   
   With code “00” flashing, press button to set the desired operating hours. See the “Operating Time Table” for the required operating hours related to each pool size. Pressing will increase the time from 01 to 12 hours maximum. If you have selected too many hours keep pressing to repeat the cycle.The built-in timer will now activate your Saltwater System, at the same time each day, for the number of hours you have set.
   
   

   (1 to 12 hours max per cycle)

   Please note: The Saltwater System will not operate if the filter pump is not operating. Make sure to program your filter pump (or start it manually) for operation beginning 5 minutes before the saltwater system and finishing 15 minutes after the saltwater system.

4. Lock keypad controls:
   
   With the desired hour value showing, press button until you hear a “beep”. A green “WORKING” indicator on the control panel will light up within a few seconds to indicate that the saltwater system has started chlorine production. Locking the control buttons into this setting prevents unauthorized changing of the operating cycle.
   
   Please note: If you forget to lock the keypad controls, the system will automatically lock it and start working 1 minute later.
5. Readjust operating time if necessary.
   
   The operating hours can be re-adjusted if necessary. Press button until you hear a “beep” to unlock the keypad and the current programmed time will flash. Repeat steps 3 to 4.
6. Boost cycle
   
   First time installation, press and hold “BOOST” button for 5 seconds until the indicator lights up and the LED display “80”. This indicates that the saltwater system has started more chlorine sanitizer production. You can press and hold the “BOOST” button for another 5 seconds until the indicator is off, which will cancel the Boost cycle.
   
   The boost operating hours is 8 times the amount of time programmed into the system, i.e. if your saltwater system operating time is 2 hours, the boost procedure will run 8 x 2 = 16 hours. After boost procedure has been completed, the system will automatically switch to the normal working mode.
   
   Once the boost is operating, check whether the filter pump operating hours have been set properly. For example, the boost operating time is 8 hours, the filter pump should be set to run for 8 hours at least. Increase the filter pump operating time if necessary. NOTE: If an Intex filter pump is attached to the system, set the pump switch to on “I” position.
   
   After a heavy rain or if the pool is dirty, press the “BOOST” button to shock the pool again.
7. Stand-by/power saving mode:
   
   When the cycle ends, the green “SLEEP” indicator on the control panel lights up and the LED display flashes “93”. The system is now in Stand-By mode. After a while, it shuts down and sets itself in a Power Saving mode. The system will automatically turn itself back on in 24 hours, starting its daily cycle of chlorine production.
   
   The “SLEEP” indicator stays on, while the system is in the Power Saving mode. The LED display however, goes blank after 5 minutes. Press any button ( or ) to view the last LED code.
8. Electrode Self-Clean cycle:
   
   Press and hold button for 5 seconds until the LED display flashes “10”. Depending on your pool water calcium hardness level, press button again to select the self-clean cycle time as below. Total of 3 settings: 14 hours, 10 hours and 06 hours.
   
   Calcium Hardness 0 - 150 ppm 150 - 250 ppm 250 - 350 ppm.
   
   Self-clean cycle time Reverse polarity every 14 hours Reverse polarity every 10 hours Reverse polarity every 06 hours.
   
   Please Note: The life of the cell varies depending on water conditions, pool usage and operating time of the device. Select 14 hours cycle time to maximize the life of the electrolytic cell if the calcium hardness level is up to 150 ppm. Manual routine cleaning and maintenance will further lengthen the life of the electrolytic cell.
   
   • With the desired self-clean hours showing, press button to lock the keypad controls and the LED display will return to the normal operating time. The system will reverse the polarity of the electrode (5) every time according to the selected hours. NOTE: If you forget to lock the keypad controls, the system will automatically lock it.

How to clean Intex salt system

Here are some simple instructions for cleaning the flow sensors and the electrodes.

How to clean Intex Salt System Flow Sensors?

1. In a counter-clockwise motion unscrew the collar of the flow sensor (6) and remove it from the electrolytic cell conduit. See “Part Reference”.
2. If deposits and debris are seen on the surface of the flow sensor, then use a garden hose to wash it off.
3. If flushing with water does not remove the deposits, use a plastic brush to clean the surface and the hinge if necessary. Do not use a metal brush.
4. After the flow sensor has been inspected and cleaned, align the locator notch on the flow sensor to the connection ridge in the conduit. Now turn the collar in a clockwise motion, tightening the sensor back into its position. Do not over-tighten.

How to clean Intex Salt System Electrodes?

The electrodes have a self cleaning function incorporated into the electronic control’s programming. In most cases this self cleaning action will keep the electrodes working at optimum efficiency. If the pool water is hard (high mineral content) the electrodes may require periodic manual cleaning. To maintain maximum performance, we recommend that you open and visually inspect the primary and secondary electrodes (5 & 4) monthly. The following steps provide instructions on how to clean your cell.

Inspecting, testing and cleaning salt cell:

1. Switch off the unit, unplug the power cord from the electrical socket.
2. For filter pumps with 1-1/4” (32mm) hose size - To prevent water from flowing out of the pool, unscrew the strainer grids from the strainer connectors and insert the hat-like plugs into the strainer connectors. For filter pumps with 1-1/2” (38mm) hose size - Turn both plunger valve handles fully clockwise until they stop. This closes the valve, prevents the water from flowing out of the pool.
3. Disconnect the 2 hoses from the Saltwater System, and attach the cell covers (9) to the inlet and outlet of the electrolytic cell.
4. Unscrew the collar of the flow sensor and pull out the flow sensor from the electrolytic cell housing.
5. Pour kitchen grade vinegar into the electrolytic cell housing (3) to immerse the electrodes. Soak for 1 hour.
6. Open one side of the cell cover, drain and properly dispose of the vinegar. Connect the hose which goes from the pool to the cell. Flush the electrolytic cell housing with the pool water.
7. Reverse steps 3, 4, 5 and 6 to reconnect the electrolytic cell.

How to store Intex Salt Water Systems long-term?

Here are some simple instructions for storage of your Intex salt water sanitation pump system during long periods.

1. Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
2. After the pool is completely empty, disconnect the Saltwater System from the hoses by reversing the installation instructions.
3. Air-dry the unit before you store it. This might be a good time to visually inspect and clean the electrolytic cell.
4. Store the unit and accessories in a dry place. The temperature should be controlled, between 0 degrees Celsius and 36 degrees Celsius.
5. The original package can be used for storage.

Intex Above Ground Pool Safety Guides

How to stay safe with an Intex Pool.

Water recreation is both fun and therapeutic. However, it involves inherent risks of injury and death. To reduce your risk of injury, read and follow all product, package and package insert warnings and instructions. Remember, however, that product warnings, instructions and safety guidelines cover some common risks of water recreation, but do not cover all risks and dangers.

For additional safeguards, also familiarise yourself with the following general guidelines as well as guidelines provided by nationally recognised safety organisations:

• Demand constant supervision. A competent adult should be appointed as a “lifeguard” or water watcher, especially when children are in and around the pool.
• Learn to swim. Read our guide about <learning to swim in the UK.>
• Take the time to learn CPR and first aid.
• Instruct anyone who is supervising pool users about potential pool hazards and about the use of protective devices such as locked doors, barriers, etc.
• Instruct all pool users, including children what to do in case of an emergency.
• Always use common sense and good judgement when enjoying any water activity.
• Supervise, supervise, supervise.
• Invest in some extra swimming pool safety equipment.

Intex Pool Chemicals Safety Guide

What do I have to test for in my Intex pool?

• Free Chlorine - Is the chlorine residual present in pool water. It is your sanitiser that stops harmful bacteria and algae from growing.
• pH - A value that indicates how acidic or basic a solution is. Result if too low - Corroded metals, eye & skin irritation, destruction of total alkalinity. Result if too high - Scale formation, cloudy water, shorter filter runs, eye & skin irritation, poor chlorine efficiency.
• Total Alkalinity - Indicates the degree of the water's resistance to change in pH. It determines the speed and ease of pH change, so always adjust total alkalinity before adjusting the pH level. Result if too low - Corroded metals, eye & skin irritation. Low alkalinity will cause the pH to be unstable. Any chemical added to the water will have an affect on pH. Result if too high - Scale formation, cloudy water, eye & skin irritation, poor chlorine efficiency.
• Calcium Hardness - Refers to the amount of calcium and magnesium dissolved in the water. Result if too high - Eye & skin irritation, difficulty balancing water and poor chlorine efficiency. Scale will form and will cause the water to become cloudy.

What is the right Chlorine level for my Intex Pool?

The minimum free-chlorine level should be no less than 0 with the ideal level being 0.5 - 3.0 ppm and not exceeding a maximum of 5.0 ppm. Always use chlorine test strips prior to bathing and after dosing.

What is the best pH level for my Intex Pool?

The minimum pH level should be no less than 7.2, with the ideal level being 7.4 - 7.6, and not exceeding a maximum of 7.8.

What is the best Total Alkalinity level for my Intex Pool?

The minimum Total Alkalinity level should be no less than 40 ppm, with the ideal level being 80 ppm, and not exceeding a maximum of 120 ppm.

What is the best Calcium Hardness level for my Intex Pool?

The minimum Calcium Hardness level should be no less than 50 ppm, with the ideal level being 100 - 250 ppm, and not exceeding a maximum of 350 ppm.

How to use chlorine test strips?

1. Dip the entire strip into the water and remove immediately.
2. Hold the strip level for 15 seconds. Do not shake excess water from the strip.
3. Now compare the strip pad to the color chart on the packaging label.
4. If necessary, adjust the chemical level in the pool water.

It is very important, to use the proper technique when testing the water's chemical level. Read and follow the written strip instructions and chemical packaging carefully.

Other Intex Above Ground Pool FAQ

How to drain an Intex pool without a garden hose adapter?

Some Intex pools are shipped without garden hose adapters for draining down your pool. To drain an Intex pool without an adapter, you could follow the instructions in this handy video.

What size Intex pool hose do I need?

There are two diameters of Intex pool hose. 1.25” & 1.5”

Anything with a sand filter pump will be using 1.5”. Anything with a cartridge filter pump will use 1.25” pool hose.

1. 

   Intex 29083 Pool Spiral Vacuum Hose (25ft)

   £17.60

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2. 

   Intex 29059 Pool Replacement Hose  (1.25" x 59")

   £5.29

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3. 

   Intex Pool Replacement Hose  (1.5" x 59")

   £9.00

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How to use Intex pool vacuum kit?

To use an Intex Pool Vacuum kit requires an Intex filter pump with minimum flow rate of 3,028 litres per hour. The vacuum sucks debris from the pool floor and through the filter. It is attached to the outlet connector in the pool with a 24'7" (7.5m) hose.

For the ultimate in Intex pool vacuums, check out the Intex Automatic pool cleaner 

How long do Intex pools last?

With proper care and storage, Intex pools can significantly out live their warranties. Your pool will last a lot longer with care when dismantling and during times of storage. Most problems occur from repetitively constructing, dismantling and storing Intex pools. Rodents seem to love the waterproof folded liner materials and often nest there during the cold winter months, and then they chew through liner. This is less of a problem for the bigger pools that generally stay up all year round. For smaller pools, try to dry them out before storing them in a rodent controlled location as best you can.

Will an Intex pool cover fit a Bestway pool?

We have never sold or stocked Bestway pools, but the similarities between the ranges are endless. Many of the products are interchangeable. Intex covers with fit Bestway pools, assuming you match the dimensions. A foot is a foot is a foot.

Which intex pool is best for me?

When asking which Intex is best for you and your family, there are some considerations. What is the best size for your available space? Do you want to use the entire space or just part of it? What is your budget? Even the running costs for a larger pool compared to a smaller one is something to consider. Filters, heating costs, chemicals are all required on going once you have an Intex pool. Do you want to leave it up all year round, or put it away in the winter? Do you want something sturdy and long lasting, or something simpler and less expensive?

You can use our Intex pool shopping filters on the website to take advantage of the item description and additional info tabs on the product page. Use them to filter the range on dimension attributes like length, width, depth, diameter etc. If you are looking for an Intex pool with pump, please visit our Intex Above Ground Pools store.

Can an Intex pool be put in the ground?

Intex pools are designed to be put on the ground, not in it. The reason for this is that Intex pools are designed for easy installation and removal and are categorised as above ground pools.

Can an Intex pool be set up on concrete?

The Intex pool is a great product for those who are looking for a simple, easy-to-install pool. It should normally be set up on grass. But if you want to install your Intex pool on concrete, you are in luck! We stock two essential items for setting up a nice base for an intex pool on concrete.

• Intex Padded Floor Protector 
• Intex Ground Sheet Cloth

Both products are equally useful for setting up a well protected base for your liner on grass as well as concrete. Connect and lay down the padded floor protector panels first, and put the ground sheet on top, before contracting the pool. Always try to be as careful as possible with any base by collecting, brushing and clearing away any sharp debris that could damage the liner.

What to do if the Intex pool is not level?

An Intex pool can not be set up on a slope. We wouldn’t advise building an Intex pool if you are not sure you have a level base. Unfortunately, building on an un-level surface results in an uneven pressure being applied to one side of the pool.

Intex pools are designed to be installed on a flat and even surface. Otherwise you risk part of the wall collapsing which will result in irreparable breakage to the frame and/or liner.

We must advise always preparing a good base for your Intex Pool. The weight of water is such that it creates far too much pressure. Evenly distributed weight of the water is what enables the frame to support such a weight.

Will Intex pools collapse?

If installed correctly on a flat and even base, the pools will not randomly collapse. If abused (used in a way that was not intended, such as climbing over edges instead of using the step ladders, or kicking a ball again the pool walls) or installed incorrectly, the frame and liner can only take so much. However, if treated with a modicum of respect your Intex pool should not collapse.

How do I clean my Intex pool?

Cleaning Intex pools is easy and therapeutic! Responsibilities fall in the the following areas:

1. Testing and dosing pool chemicals such as your pool chlorine and pH balancers.
2. Running the pumps to filter out debris and particles in the water.
3. Cleaning the cartridge filters after heavy use. (Or change sand every 5 years)
4. Skimming the surface with a net to remove floating debris.
5. Deep rake leaf netting out any heavier sunken debris.
6. Brushing the walls gently with a pool brush and pool pole.
7. Removing and replacing solar covers and debris covers. Occasion hosing might be required.
8. Applying long life algaecide for extra prevention against algae growth
9. Using a vacuum kit or automatic vacuum.
10. Tidying around the pool and dealing with any debris that can end up in to the pool.
11. Checking and cleaning steps and ladders, and any foot-baths.

How to repair an Intex pool liner?

Intex pool liners are used in pools to keep the water clean and prevent it from escaping. There are various reasons why a liner can be damaged and need to be repaired.

The first step is to identify the type of damage that has been done to the liner. This can be done by looking for any tears, holes, or rips in the liner. If there is a hole in the liner, then it needs to be patched with a patch kit or if there is too much damage then it may need to be replaced entirely. If there are small tears or rips in the liner then these can be repaired using a repair kit.

How to use an Intex pool liner repair kit?

An Intex pool liner repair kit is essential. These kits can come in different sizes depending on how large your pool is. The kit contains everything you need to fix a hole or tear in the liner of your pool.

The kits consist of a patch, a vinyl tube and adhesive.

1. Apply patch to the hole or tear.
2. Cut off excess liner around the patch.
3. Make a small slit in the vinyl tube and thread it through the liner around the patch.
4. Take adhesive and apply liberally to one side of the liner, just outside of where you have made your slit in it.
5. Press vinyl tube against the adhesive and hold in place for a few seconds.
6. Once it is stuck, take scissors or razor and cut off excess liner around the tube.
7. If necessary, apply more adhesive to the vinyl tube and make another slit for easier removal

Is Intex pool better than Bestway?

We find the two ranges to be very similar. We would say that in our opinion Intex pools are better value than Bestway. There appears to be more competitive pricing online for Intex with a greater number of distributors between manufacturer and the retail market.

How to drain my Intex pool?

The easiest way to drain your Intex pool is with an Intex pool drain pump accessory. When taking down your pool, even a small amount of water in the bottom can weigh a lot. So it's easiest to use a cheap submersible pool pump to drain every last drop.

The Intex Pool Drain Pump has IPX8 waterproof housing and pumps up to 3,595 litres of water per hour. Includes a 1.25" x 16ft (32mm x 5m) drain hose, an adaptor for garden hose attachment and a 32ft (1m) power cord 32ft (10m). Maximum operating water depth 4ft (1.22m).

Intex pools with pumps can detach the return hose from the inlet connector and drain the pool down to outlet level. Larger pools have a drain valve to get down almost to floor level. But an Intex pool drain pump allows you to get those last few puddles out.