Intex pool metal frame round tubular (ø) 3.66 x (h) 0.76m

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As expected given the minimal amount of parts in the box, setup was essentially snap-and-go. All it took was two people, some patience, and some elbow grease—we didn’t even need the DVD to get the frame built. Let us be quite frank here: The design of this pool is very basic. It’s a simple frame and pump system, which is about what we expected given the price. But in our opinion, the basic design is a huge selling point. We had no issues with setup, and should a part malfunction or get damaged, it can be easily replaced.

Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Pool Set 24ft x 12ft x 52in Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Pool Set 24ft x 12ft x 52in

This pool arrived on our doorstep in one large box, which contained everything we needed to get started. Everything but water, that is. The box contained a pump, the laminated sidewalls, a DVD with video instructions, a couple of odds and ends to help hold the frame together, and the pieces to build the hard plastic and metal frame. There are a number of similarly sized above-ground pools that compete with Intex’s 12-foot set, and one of the top options is the 12-foot x 33-inch Summer Waves Active Frame Pool. The sizes of the two pools are comparable; the Summer Waves pool is only 3 inches deeper. Even with five or six kids in the water, there was still plenty room for them to stretch out and float without taking an accidental elbow to the nose.During winter, the brand recommends draining, disassembling, and storing the pieces in a safe location. To drain, remove the cap from the valve on the exterior pool wall and hook up a hose.

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Editor's Note (September 2023): This product review was originally written and published in 2019. To make sure we are still recommending the best products for your needs, we recently reviewed this story to make sure it is still accurate and that we stand by what we wrote. Despite newer models and options being available, we still feel confident that this product is one of the best choices, and therefore have included it in The Best Above-Ground Pools and The Best Kiddie Pools.

You should also clear out any hardy grasses that could grow through the liner, including Bermuda and St. Augustine. It’s best to throw a tarp down underneath the pool to provide a barrier. If punctures do occur, the set comes with a repair kit. Want to make a big splash with your kids this summer? An above-ground pool like the Intex 12ft x 30in Metal Frame Pool Set is a great option. Intex is known for its stellar reputation and low prices. We tested the company’s popular above-ground pool to see just how well it would do under child-induced duress.