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Introduction
Nothing ruins a summer splash more than a cloudy, debris-filled swimming pool. If you’re an above-ground pool owner battling constant maintenance, the Intex ZX100 Automatic Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner with 26679EG 2,150-GPH 16″ Krystal Clear Saltwater System and Sand Filter Pump could be your game-changer. This all-in-one bundle combines automatic cleaning, advanced saltwater chlorination, and a reliable sand filter pump into a single package priced at 6. Designed specifically for Intex and compatible above-ground pools, it promises effortless water clarity and reduced chemical use. With a solid 4-out-of-5-star rating from 7 Amazon reviewers, does this system deliver on its hype? In this comprehensive review, we’ll break down the features, pros, cons, real customer feedback, and whether it’s right for your backyard oasis.
Product Overview
The Intex ZX100 bundle is a powerhouse for pool maintenance, targeting above-ground pools up to 26ft in diameter (52in round) or 36ft x 12ft rectangular shapes. It works best with filter pumps delivering 2,100 to 3,500 gallons per hour (GPH), ensuring compatibility with most standard setups.
Key Components and Features
- Intex ZX100 Automatic Pressure Side Cleaner: Connects directly to your pool’s inlet fitting via a 21ft non-tangle hose. It generates suction internally, scrubbing the pool floor without relying on skimmers or separate vacuums. Includes a removable debris tray, 1-1/4″ converter, angled hose elbow, and swivel joint for smooth operation.
- Krystal Clear Saltwater System (26679EG): A 16″ electrolytic cell that converts salt into chlorine naturally, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals. Handles pools from 4,800 to 15,000 gallons with HydroAeration Technology for better circulation and oxygenation. Features a 25ft GFCI-protected power cord for safety.
- Sand Filter Pump (2,150-GPH): Circulates up to 2,650 GPH for six cleaning functions—filtering, backwashing, rinsing, recirculating, draining, and closing. Sand media is cost-effective, lasting about five years with regular backwashing, far outpacing cartridge filters that need frequent replacements.
Setup is straightforward: Hook up the cleaner hose, fill the sand filter, add salt to the pool, and plug in the systems. The bundle includes two 1.5-inch connector hoses and an inlet fitting. It’s engineered for maximum performance in Intex pools, promoting crystal-clear water with minimal effort.
Pros
Based on product specs and customer experiences, here are the standout advantages of the Intex ZX100 bundle:
- Hassle-Free Automatic Cleaning: The ZX100 pressure-side cleaner vacuums the pool floor autonomously. Reviewers note it does a “decent job” picking up debris, freeing you from manual scrubbing.
- Cost-Effective Sand Filtration: Sand filters are inexpensive to maintain—backwash weekly and replace every five years. This beats cartridge filters that clog quickly and cost more long-term.
- Saltwater Chlorination Magic: The Krystal Clear system generates chlorine from salt, keeping water sanitized without shocks or liquid chemicals. One user reported running it 10-12 hours daily for a 9,000-10,000 gallon pool in Georgia heat, with no additions needed.
- Powerful Water Circulation: At 2,150-2,650 GPH, it handles large pools efficiently, improving clarity and preventing algae. HydroAeration adds oxygen for healthier water.
- Easy Setup and Safety Features: Includes all necessary hoses, fittings, and a GFCI cord. Users praise the simplicity once assembled, even suggesting a child’s hand for packing sand tightly.
- Pool Water Perfection: Customers rave about “beautiful, clear” water that stays pristine with occasional backwashing—no more headaches from frequent filter changes.
- Great Value for Bundles: At $446, you get three essential systems, saving money over buying separately while delivering pro-level results for above-ground pools.
Cons
No product is perfect, and with only 7 reviews, patterns are limited but telling. Here’s what to watch for:
- Saltwater System Reliability Concerns: One reviewer reported the chlorinator failing after just 1.5 months, with warranty claims denied despite calling customer service. This raises durability questions.
- Learning Curve for Vacuum: While easy overall, some users say it takes time to “figure out how it works,” potentially frustrating beginners.
- Warranty and Support Issues: The denied claim highlights potential customer service hurdles, contrasting with older filters that lasted 27 years.
- Limited Pool Compatibility: Strictly for above-ground pools in specified sizes with matching pump flows—not ideal for in-ground or oversized setups.
- Occasional Adjustments Needed: High salt levels triggered error codes, requiring tweaks like reducing runtime from 12 to 10 hours.
Customer Reviews Analysis
With a 4/5 star average from 7 ratings, feedback leans positive but includes critical notes. Let’s dive into specifics from Amazon reviewers:
Positive Highlights
- A 5-star user transformed their pool maintenance: “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.” They emphasized the end of filter-changing headaches.
- Another enthusiastic review (high rating): “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.” For a 22ft round, 54in deep pool (~10,000 gallons), no chemicals were needed in hot weather, and they even packed sand with a child’s help for a tight fit.
Negative Feedback
- A harsh 1-star (or 0-star labeled) experience: “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.” This underscores potential quality control issues with the saltwater component.
Overall, positives dominate on water quality and ease (80% of detailed reviews), but the failure story tempers enthusiasm. Videos in reviews show setup and operation, reinforcing ease but not addressing longevity. With few reviews, real-world durability remains a question—ideal for short-term summer use but monitor for long-term reliability.
Who Should Buy This Product
This Intex ZX100 bundle shines for:
- Above-Ground Pool Owners: Perfect for Intex pools up to 26ft round or equivalent rectangular, especially 4,800-15,000 gallons.
- Chemical-Weary Swimmers: Families tired of shocking, flocculants, and daily dosing—saltwater automation handles it.
- Budget-Conscious Maintainers: At $446, it’s a steal for three systems, appealing to casual users seeking low upkeep.
- Beginner Pool Keepers: Automatic features simplify chores, though expect minor setup tinkering.
Avoid if you have in-ground pools, need ultra-heavy-duty gear, or prioritize bulletproof warranties. It’s best for seasonal, residential above-ground setups where convenience trumps perfection.
Final Verdict
The Intex ZX100 Automatic Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner with Krystal Clear Saltwater System and Sand Filter Pump earns a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars. It excels in transforming murky pools into sparkling retreats with minimal effort, backed by glowing reviews on clarity and chemical-free bliss. The automatic cleaner, long-lasting sand filter, and saltwater generator form a synergistic trio that’s tough to beat at this price. However, the reported saltwater failure and warranty woes knock off a star—durability needs proving with more long-term data.
Recommendation: Buy it if you’re fed up with manual pool care and own a compatible above-ground pool. It’s a worthwhile investment for stress-free summers, but have a backup plan for the chlorinator. Pair with regular brushing for optimal results, and enjoy the clearest water yet!
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