💡 As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Introduction
Keeping an above-ground swimming pool crystal clear during the hot summer months can feel like a never-ending battle. Constant filter changes, chemical balancing, and manual scrubbing often turn pool ownership into a chore rather than a joy. Enter the Intex ZX100 Automatic Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner bundled with the 26679EG 2,150-GPH 16″ Krystal Clear Saltwater System and Sand Filter Pump. This all-in-one pool maintenance powerhouse promises effortless cleaning, saltwater chlorination, and superior filtration for pools up to 26 feet in diameter.
Priced at around 6, this combo kit has earned a solid 4 out of 5 stars from 7 customer reviews on Amazon. It’s designed specifically for Intex and compatible above-ground pools, combining an automatic pressure-side cleaner, a high-capacity sand filter pump, and a saltwater generator that minimizes the need for harsh chemicals. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into its features, performance, pros and cons, real customer feedback, and whether it’s the right fit for your backyard oasis. If you’re tired of cloudy water and endless upkeep, read on to see if the Intex ZX100 setup delivers.
Product Overview
The Intex ZX100 kit is a comprehensive solution for above-ground pool owners seeking automation and efficiency. At its core is the ZX100 Automatic Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner, which connects directly to your pool’s inlet fitting via a 21-foot non-tangle hose. Powered by your filter pump’s suction (no separate electricity needed), it generates its own vacuum to scour the pool floor, picking up dirt, debris, and leaves without tangling.
Paired with it is the 26679EG Krystal Clear Saltwater System and Sand Filter Pump, boasting a robust 2,150 gallons per hour (GPH) flow rate. This sand filter uses inexpensive silica sand as media, which lasts up to five years with regular backwashing—far outpacing cartridge filters that require frequent replacements. The saltwater chlorinator converts salt into chlorine naturally, maintaining balanced water without daily shocking or liquid chemicals.
Key Features and Specifications
- Pool Compatibility: Intex and other above-ground pools up to 26ft diameter x 52in height (round) or 36ft x 12ft (rectangular). Requires pumps with 2,100-3,500 GPH flow.
- Cleaning Coverage: Six cleaning functions for floors; ideal for pools 4,800-15,000 gallons.
- Filter Pump Specs: 2,150 GPH max flow, 16-inch tank, HydroAeration Technology for better circulation and sanitation.
- Saltwater System: Generates chlorine from salt; includes GFCI-protected 25ft power cord for safety.
- What’s Included: ZX100 cleaner with 1-1/4″ converter, removable debris tray, angled hose elbow, swivel joint; two 1.5-inch hoses, inlet fitting for the pump.
- Setup: Simple connection to existing plumbing; sand filter requires initial sand fill (not included).
This bundle excels in circulating water effectively, with the pump’s advanced filtering ensuring debris-free operation. The pressure-side design of the ZX100 means it thrives on high-flow pumps, climbing walls minimally but excelling on floors—a common trait for budget automatic cleaners.
Pros
Based on product specs and customer experiences, here are the standout advantages of the Intex ZX100 with Krystal Clear system:
- Effortless Automatic Cleaning: The ZX100 hooks up in minutes and vacuums the pool floor autonomously. Users rave about its “decent job” on debris, freeing up hours of manual labor.
- Cost-Effective Sand Filtration: Sand media is cheap and durable (5+ years), with easy backwashing. No more buying stacks of cartridges—major savings long-term.
- Natural Saltwater Chlorination: Converts salt to chlorine, eliminating shocks, flocculants, and other chemicals. One reviewer in Georgia’s intense heat ran it 12 hours daily for a 9-10k gallon pool without adding anything, achieving perfect clarity.
- High Flow Rate for Crystal Clear Water: 2,150 GPH ensures thorough circulation, preventing algae and keeping water pristine. Customers call it “life-changing” compared to cartridge filters.
- Easy Setup and Compatibility: Plugs into standard Intex systems; includes all hoses, fittings, and safety features like GFCI. Great for round pools up to 22-26ft.
- Low Maintenance Overall: Backwash occasionally, monitor salt levels— that’s it. One user packed sand with a child’s help for tight fill and hasn’t looked back.
- Value-Packed Bundle: At $446, you get cleaner, pump, and chlorinator—better than buying separately.
These pros make it a game-changer for hassle-free pool ownership, especially in sunny climates where water balance is tough.
Cons
No product is perfect, and with only 7 reviews, patterns are limited but telling. Here’s where the Intex ZX100 kit falls short:
- Saltwater System Reliability Issues: One user reported the chlorinator failing after just 1.5 months, with warranty denial despite arguments. Compared to their 27-year-old filter, this was “terrible.”
- Vacuum Performance is “Decent,” Not Exceptional: While functional, the robot doesn’t climb walls well and requires occasional manual brushing. It’s not a premium suction-side rival.
- Setup Learning Curve: Filling sand precisely and figuring out the vacuum takes trial and error—one tip was using a small hand for packing.
- Limited Review Volume: Only 7 ratings mean less real-world data; potential for more durability concerns.
- Pool Size/Shape Restrictions: Best for specified sizes; oversized pools may underperform without 2,100+ GPH pump.
Durability of the electronics is the biggest red flag—buyers should monitor warranty closely.
Customer Reviews Analysis
With a 4-star average from 7 reviews, feedback skews positive, highlighting transformation in pool maintenance. Let’s break it down with direct quotes for authenticity.
Positive Highlights
Most users (at least 5-6 based on summaries) are thrilled:
- “What a difference! Last year was such a fight… This sand filter with salt chlorine generator has changed our life! The pool stays clear and beautiful. We backwash ever so often… The little robot vacuum does a decent job too. Definitely worth the money.” (5 stars) – Emphasizes ease over cartridge headaches.
- “BUY IT !!! Have not had to add anything since we started… The vacuum is so easy once you figure out how it works! … I let it run 12 hrs a day… You will not be disappointed.” (High rating) – Zero chemicals needed in 9-10k gallon pool; even dialed back chlorinator to avoid errors.
Common themes: superior water clarity, minimal upkeep, and bang-for-buck value. The saltwater system shines in hot weather, reducing algae risks.
Negative Feedback
One scathing 0-star review stands out:
- “Saltwater system died on me only after a month and half…. Trying to get a new one under warranty but got denied. On phone arguing w them over this. Terrible. My old filter lasted 27 yrs.” – Highlights potential quality control or warranty pitfalls.
Overall, positives dominate (likely 80%+), but the failure story is a cautionary tale. With few reviews, early adopters seem happiest, while longevity questions linger. No mentions of noise, hose tangles, or pump strain—solid reliability signals where present.
Review Trends and Ratings Breakdown
| Star Rating | Approximate Count | Key Sentiment |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Stars | 4-5 | Life-changing clarity, no chemicals |
| 4 Stars | 1 | Solid but not perfect vacuum |
| 0-1 Stars | 1 | Equipment failure, poor support |
Average holds at 4 stars, bolstered by transformative experiences outweighing isolated issues.
Who Should Buy This Product
The Intex ZX100 with Krystal Clear bundle is ideal for:
- New or Casual Pool Owners: Those with Intex above-ground pools (15x48in to 26ft round) seeking hands-off maintenance.
- Saltwater Enthusiasts: Families avoiding chemical smells and skin irritation; perfect for 4,800-15,000 gallon setups.
- Budget-Conscious Upgraders: Tired of cartridge filters—sand + salt combo saves $100s yearly.
- Hot-Climate Dwellers: Like Georgia users fighting heat-induced algae; high flow keeps water pristine.
Skip if you have an in-ground pool, need wall-climbing, or prioritize ultra-premium durability. Best for round/rectangular above-ground pools with compatible pumps.
Final Verdict
The Intex ZX100 Automatic Pressure Side Pool Cleaner with 26679EG Krystal Clear Saltwater System earns a well-deserved 4.2 out of 5 stars in our book. It’s a smart, affordable bundle that automates cleaning, filters efficiently with sand, and sanitizes via saltwater—delivering sparkling water with minimal effort. Positive reviews paint a picture of pool paradise: no more shocking, constant clarity, and a reliable vacuum sidekick.
However, the saltwater system’s reported early failure tempers enthusiasm; warranty support needs improvement. At $446, it’s a strong value if your pool matches specs, but consider extended protection. For above-ground owners craving simplicity, this is a recommended buy—just monitor components closely in year one.
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
If you’re battling murky water this season, the Intex ZX100 kit could be your ticket to effortless summer fun. Have you tried it? Share your thoughts below!
