Intex Above-Ground Pool Review: Here’s What We Think
Ever since I moved away from California, I’ve missed having a swimming pool in the backyard. Lounging in the water was my strategy for surviving the sweltering summers. It also created happy memories that I fondly remember today.
So when we finally finished renovating the inside of our old house we’ve been working on for the last two years, I was excited to turn my sights to the outside. We couldn’t afford an in-ground pool, nor would one be practical for our location. So, we decided to go with an Intex Ultra XTR above-ground swimming pool.
“Above-ground pools are the perfect entry point into the pool lifestyle because of their affordability, easy installation, and placement flexibility,” says Alicia Toedter, Education and Content Leader at Leslie’s consumer pool and spa care. “In 2022, the average cost of an in-ground pool was $66,500, which is nearly 20 times the cost of an average above-ground pool.
So far, our Intex above-ground pool has been a great choice. Our friends and family also couldn’t be happier. As one neighborhood kid said, “It’s cool because you can go from no pool to a paradise in a day!”
But, this pool is still a big commitment, and there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. Here’s what we learned through the course of setting it up and using it, and who we recommend this pool for.
What is the Intex Above Ground Pool?
The Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe above-ground pool is a removable swimming pool that you can set up in your yard. It comes as a kit, which includes a metal frame, liner, filter and accessories.
Intex makes above-ground pools in a range of shapes and sizes. We chose the 12-foot-by-24-foot model, which is their second-largest because we have ample yard space and didn’t want to feel cramped with friends and family over for gatherings. We also opted for the salt water system feature to cut down on the chlorine smell.
KARUNA EBERL/FAMILY HANDYMANWe Tried It
Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe Above-Ground Swimming Pool
Durable and uniquely designed above-ground pool that's meant to last.
Intex Above Ground Pool Features
- Rust-resistant 12′ x 24′ steel frame, powder-coated inside and outside
- High-strength T-joints infused with UV inhibitor, for weather resistance
- Easy Lock System frame, with snap-together components (no tools needed)
- 52″ deep
- Puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC liner
- 110V Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump, with a flow rate of 2,100 GPH
- Pool ladder
- Ground cloth
- Debris cover
- Leak patches
- 2-year warranty
- Indicator/warning lights for salt levels, low flow, service, and maintenance.
- Self-cleaning cycle programmed into the filter, with options of six, 10 and 14 hours
How We Tested It
Before beginning the pool setup, we consulted Toedter and Rafi Friedman, president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, to avoid common mistakes. Their number one piece of advice was to choose the location wisely; Ideally, a place where the ground can be easily flattened, with a few extra feet of clearance beyond the pool dimensions, and all of the rocks and debris removed from the area. They also suggested a spot that’s close to the needed power and water connections and in clear view of our home (for safety).
“The assembly can be a weekend DIY project, however, many new pool owners may hire a contractor to do the site prep work for them,” says Toedter.
Prepping the Site
Even though we started with level ground, prepping it proved to be the most arduous part of setting up the pool. That took up one of our weekends and included adding a bed of sand and renting a sod roller to get the surface as flat and level as possible, especially under the support brackets. To make matters more tedious, we live in a rural area prone to dust storms, so we had to wait several more weeks for the spring winds to subside, before even attempting to put it together. But eventually, the site was ready and the winds stopped, and it was time for the fun part of the task.
Unboxing the Pool
We didn’t quite realize the magnitude of what we were getting into until the freight truck pulled up. The driver unloaded the boxed pool via a lift gate and a pallet jack. Altogether it weighed more than 400 pounds. But the pool parts were in two boxes, so once we detached them from the pallet and removed the shrink wrap, we were able to lug the boxes separately, with a regular dolly, to where we needed them. The whole unboxing process took around 20 minutes.
Setting the Frame and Filter
To assemble the frame, we enlisted the help of the neighbors. It took four of us to hold up the side walls while clicking on the leg stands. In hindsight, one more person would have been helpful. But all in, it took just over two hours to have the frame and liner together.
It took another hour or so to assemble the filter. The instructions for that were a bit scattered, but we were able to figure it out without too much trouble. Note: you must also buy 77 pounds of sand (No. 20, silica) for the filter, as that’s not included. And if you get the salt version, you’ll also need 210 pounds of salt (3,000 ppm, sodium chloride, 99.4%+ pure).
Filling the Pool
On its website, Intex touts that this pool is “ready for water in 90 minutes.” What they don’t mention is how long it takes to add 8,400 gallons of water. No big deal, except for our neighbor’s kid, who had been hanging around all day in his swim trunks waiting in anticipation. He ended up having to come back the next day to do the inaugural belly flop since it took around 12 hours to get it topped off.
We have a well, so the utility bill wasn’t an issue, but if you live in a place where water is expensive, you might price out hiring a water truck to fill it. Also of note: The pool bows in the last few inches before it reaches the recommended fill height, which is normal, but a little unnerving.
Using The Pool
To kick off our exciting summer of pool time, we invited some neighbors, friends, and family over. The day included a lot of splashing, laughing, beach balls, foam noodle duels, and diving for quarters. In other words, it was a success. The pool held strong and everyone went home exhausted and happy.
The pool fits 10 people comfortably. While it feels quite durable, we’re still keeping the pets (and their claws) away, just in case. After using it, the cover was easy to put on with two people, and the bottom tie-down loops were convenient. An important note: The pool cover is only meant for keeping out debris, and NOT a safety cover.
So far, our days with high winds haven’t been affecting the pool, but if we’re lax on properly tightening the cover, the winds can get under it. The filter has been working perfectly, keeping the water clean and clear. There’s also a sleep mode on the pump, so we can stop it while swimming. It does require some maintenance and ongoing materials expenses (of course), like testing and treating the water and buying chemicals.
In terms of overall durability, it’s looking as if we’ll get years of fun out of it. The frame appears to be very rust-proof, though there are four hose clamps at the filter, which seem like they could potentially rust after a while. Not a big deal.
Pros
- Large size for family and friends
- Liner feels durable
- Quality frame
- Easy to set up, considering the size; no tools required (except flathead and Phillips screwdrivers for pump/filter clamps)
- High-flow pump keeps water clear and clean
- Looks sleek
Cons
- Takes a lot of site preparation
- Ladder could be more sturdy
- Flat lot and plenty of yard required
FAQ
How long will an Intex above-ground pool last?
The pool has a two-year warranty. However, if maintained properly, it can last up to 15 years, says Friedman.
What is best to put under an Intex pool?
It depends on your yard and where you plan on putting it. Often a bed of sand will be the preferred medium, topped with the tarp that’s included with the pool.
Should I cover my Intex pool every night?
You don’t have to, but covering it will cut down on evaporation and keep debris and animals out of the water. “It helps streamline your day-to-day maintenance routine and can help save money on chlorine costs,” says Toedter.
What Other Reviewers/Experts Had to Say
Overall, Intex pools get good reviews for quality vs. cost. Intex is considered a leading brand, with a reputation for longevity and pools that are easy to set up.
“These pools are surprisingly affordable compared to other above-ground pools, while still offering a lot of quality and durability,” says Friedman.
On Amazon and other consumer sites, some negative customer reviews mention poor customer service, shipping problems and difficulties with the pump. But overall, reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some mentioning more than eight years of longevity and counting, plus many others touting how much joy it’s brought their families.
Intex Above Ground Pool vs. Bestway Above Ground Pool
When it comes to this size of pool, Intex is the only option. The largest pool Bestway makes is the Power Steel Swim Vista Series, which measures 17-foot-by-10-foot and 42 inches deep. It’s considerably more affordable but also holds less than half of the water capacity. Otherwise, both are good brands, says Friedman.
“Intex pools are higher quality, though you’ll pay more for that quality,” Friedman explains. “Bestway is not a bad brand, though.”
Final Verdict
We highly recommend the Intex Ultra XTR for anyone who’s been longing to have a pool in their lives. The 12-foot-by-24-foot model is large enough to feel like a proper pool, but small enough to not be a maintenance hassle.
It’s not the cheapest above-ground pool on the market, but it’s affordable for its size, and with that extra cost comes increased quality and durability, which is important for something that is tasked with containing 8,000-plus gallons of water. It also has a nice aesthetic.
Getting the site prepped to install takes a bit of work, but that’s the case for any above-ground pool. If you don’t have nearly level ground to start with, it will likely require some formal excavation.
It also takes a bit of muscle to move the 400-plus-pounds of liner and frame into place but all things considered, it’s an easy DIY to set up, especially with the forward-thinking, tool-free frame design. It’s also pretty simple to take down to store for the winter if you live in a cold place as we do.
We anticipate this pool will last for many summer’s worth of enjoyment, while creating a lifetime of precious memories, especially for the neighborhood kids.
Where to Buy the Intex Above-Ground Pool
KARUNA EBERL/FAMILY HANDYMANWe Tried It
Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe Above-Ground Swimming Pool
Durable and uniquely designed above-ground pool that's meant to last.
The Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe is widely available for purchase on the internet, at big box home improvement stores and from specialty pool outlets and local dealers. It’s currently around $1,400 on Amazon, Walmart, Lowe’sand Leslie’s.
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