Intex Automatic Cleaner - on non Intex pool?

[_shorty_]

Can anyone speak to having a non-intex pool and using the intex automatic pool cleaner? What plumbing (or otherwise) challenges did you have to overcome to adapt this to your system?

From what I've read on here so far, I'm assuming my 1HP pump will be a bit too powerful, and I'd need to plumb in a valved second return line somehow to be able to tune flow to this guy.

Any other concerns or suggestions? Other cleaners that you see as better options for low cost?

Thanks!

 

[_shorty_]

I just realized there are two different types that intex makes. I'm referring to: Intex Auto Pool Cleaner, which is the little guy on wheels that connects to your pool return and roams around and changes directions.

 

[kellyfair]

I don’t see why you couldn’t use it. You might even get by with just the one return, but if pump is too much for it, would be cool to have second return with a valve that you could partially close off to control flow.

 

[Donldson]

Looks like the specs say 1.5 inch hose fittings, which are standard size (shocking, as Intex is great at using non-standard sizes to lock you in to their proprietary stuff). It also requires between 1600-3500 gph flow rates to work. So if you can get your flow rate to fall in to that parameter I say go for it. Given the cost of most cleaners this one is worth it just to try IMO. I haven't seen this particular cleaner before, I might get one myself to experiment with it.

 

[jeffchap]

I had one and it worked quite well. But it is fitted with the proprietary Intex fittings, so you'll need an adapter for it. I made one out of PVC. You can read about it midway through this thread: New pump arrived today

 

[Donldson]

I had one and it worked quite well. But it is fitted with the proprietary Intex fittings, so you'll need an adapter for it.

Odd that it lists 1.5 inch fittings, but at the same time it seems odd that Intex would go with a standard size for anything Thanks for the heads up on that!

 

[jeffchap]

Odd that it lists 1.5 inch fittings, but at the same time it seems odd that Intex would go with a standard size for anything Thanks for the heads up on that!

They are 1.5", but the thread pitch is different. The collars bind up before you can screw them down far enough to seal off. I got around this by stacking an extra rubber washer inside the collar. This allows them to seal enough to prevent leakage.

 

[_shorty_]

Awesome. Thanks so much guys!! I'll have to try one out.

 

[_shorty_]

I had one and it worked quite well. But it is fitted with the proprietary Intex fittings, so you'll need an adapter for it. I made one out of PVC. You can read about it midway through this thread: New pump arrived today

Thanks Jeff - that thread is helpful!