The Intex 28290EH 8ft x 30in pool gives you an affordable, no-frills backyard swim spot that’s quick to set up and sturdy enough for supervised family use. Its 3‑ply PVC liner and metal frame resist everyday wear, and the 751‑gallon size fits small yards while keeping fill and maintenance manageable. You’ll need a pump, filter, and chemicals separately, and should patch promptly if punctured. Keep going to see full setup, care, and value details.
Some Key Takeaways
- Affordable, no-frills 8 ft × 30 in metal-frame pool holds about 751 gallons for compact backyard cooling and kid play.
- Quick, tool-light assembly: metal frame snaps together and fills in ~30 minutes after leveling the base.
- Durable 3‑ply PVC liner and reinforced seams resist punctures; included repair patch for minor damage.
- Pump, filter, and chemicals are not included, so factor added cost and maintenance for water quality.
- Best for supervised shallow-water fun, easy seasonal storage, and homeowners wanting a budget-friendly pool option.
Quick Verdict and Who the Intex 28290EH Is Best For
If you want an affordable, no-frills backyard pool that’s quick to set up and built to last, the Intex 28290EH delivers exactly that. You’ll appreciate its sturdy metal frame and puncture-proof 3-ply PVC, which make it feel dependable for family use. It’s best if you want a compact cooling spot that welcomes kids with a kid friendly design and simple maintenance. You’ll assemble it fast and drain or cover for seasonal storage without fuss. It won’t replace a large in-ground pool, but it gives your household an inclusive, reliable summer gathering place at low cost. The pool is a great fit for homeowners who enjoy making the most of their outdoor spaces without needing extensive yard remodeling.
Key Specs and What the 8ft X 30IN, 751‑Gallon Size Means for Your Yard
Now that you know who the 28290EH suits, let’s look at what the 8 ft × 30 in footprint and 751‑gallon capacity mean for your yard. With an 8‑foot diameter you’ll fit this pool on modest patios, lawns, or between garden features — ideal if you want to share space with friends and family. The shallow 30‑inch depth favors casual cooling, supervised kids’ play, and easy entry. 751 gallons is manageable for filling, draining, and treating; it also keeps operational costs lower. Consider yard placement for sun exposure if you care about passive water heating and comfort. This makes it easy to create an outdoor oasis that complements other above-ground pool accessories.
Assembly and Ready-to-Swim Setup (What’s Included and What You Still Need)
Get the Intex 28290EH up and running quickly — assembly is straightforward and the pool fills in about 30 minutes once you’ve got the base set and the metal frame snapped together. You’ll get the pool shell, metal frame pieces, and a repair patch; pump, filter, and chemicals aren’t included. Use a simple tool checklist: rubber mallet, level, garden hose, and work gloves to speed setup. Expect the fill timeline to hinge on your water pressure but plan for about half an hour. This setup feels communal — invite a friend to help, and you’ll be swimming sooner. Consider adding simple accessories like a ladder or cover to make your backyard pool safer and more enjoyable, especially if you’re creating an outdoor space.
Durability, Materials, and Maintenance: Frame, 3‑Ply PVC, and Patch Use
Because the Intex 28290EH uses a metal frame and puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC, you can expect solid everyday durability for typical backyard use, though care still matters to maximize lifespan. You’ll appreciate the frame’s rust resistance in humid seasons, and the 3-ply PVC resists tears better than single-layer liners. Check seam reinforcement at joins during setup; reinforced seams reduce leaks and extend service life. Keep the pool clean, avoid sharp objects, and store it indoors off-season. If you get a puncture, use the included patch promptly—proper patching restores integrity and keeps your pool reliable for years. Many homeowners like pairing these pools with steel frame accessories to enhance outdoor living and maintenance.
Value Assessment: Performance, Pros/Cons, and Whether to Buy This Pool
While the Intex 28290EH won’t replace a full-size pool, it gives you a reliable, easy-to-set-up cooling option that punches above its price class for short-term backyard use. You’ll get solid performance for lounging and kid play: quick install, sturdy frame, and decent circulation via dual suction outlets. Pros: affordable, portable, durable 3-ply PVC, sense of shared summer fun. Cons: limited depth/capacity, pump/filters sold separately, basic temperature control, and attention to chemical dosing needed for water quality. If you want an accessible, community-minded splash spot, this pool is a smart, budget-friendly buy. It’s a practical choice for homeowners who want to enhance your yard with a seasonal resin-adjacent above-ground swim option.
Some Questions Answered
Can the Pool Be Left Outdoors During Winter Months?
No — you shouldn't leave it outdoors through winter without precautions. For winter storage, drain and clean the pool, let it dry, patch any tears, and store it indoors or under a waterproof cover elevated from ground moisture. If you must leave it outside, remove pumps/filters, add freeze protection by fully draining water from fittings and using insulating covers to prevent ice damage. Doing this helps your pool last and keeps you part of a careful community.
Is a Ground Cloth or Protective Pad Recommended?
Yes — you should use a ground cloth or weed barrier under the pool to protect the liner and create a stable base. A ground cloth cushions against rocks, roots, and rough soil; a weed barrier adds extra protection from plant growth and improves drainage. You’ll feel confident your pool lasts longer and stays cleaner. Pick a durable material sized to extend slightly beyond the pool’s footprint.
Are Replacement Parts (Valves, Frame) Available Separately?
Yes — you can get replacement valves and frame adapters separately. You’ll find OEM and compatible parts from Intex and third-party sellers; they let you swap worn valves or damaged frame adapters without buying a whole pool. Check model compatibility, part numbers, and seller reviews so you and your group feel confident the fit’s right. Keep the original manual or photos handy to match parts and streamline repairs for longer pool life.
Can Two People Safely Sit on the Pool Edge?
Yes — but cautiously. You can sit two people on the pool edge if you respect the weight capacity and seating stability limits; it’s not designed as a bench. You’ll want to test gently, keep weight distributed across the metal frame, and avoid sudden shifts. For safety and longevity, treat edge seating as occasional, not continuous. Invite friends to share care and watch kids closely to keep everyone included and safe.
What Chemicals and Quantities Are Appropriate for 751 Gallons?
You should aim for pH balance of 7.2–7.6 and total alkalinity 80–120 ppm; adjust alkalinity control with baking soda or sodium bicarbonate as needed. Maintain free chlorine levels 1–3 ppm, adding ~1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) of granular chlorine per 100 gallons (so ~7.5 tablespoons for 751 gal) or follow product labels. Use cyanuric acid stabilizer dosage per label to reach 30–50 ppm. Test water frequently and treat accordingly.
