Intex Ultra XTR 24ft Pool Review + Must Have Accessories

kids and friends enjoying our Intex Ultra XTR 24ft above ground pool on a summer day

This 24ft Intex above ground pool review will give you backyard inspiration for family fun and outdoor swimming this summer. Sharing all of my tips and tricks, upgrades and pool must haves. Set-up is easier than you think, and oh so worth it!

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After using our 24ft Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool for three summers, I can honestly say it’s one of the best investments we’ve made for our backyard. With three kids, a dog, and plenty of friends coming over all summer long, it’s become the heart of our backyard. In this review, I’m sharing what I love, what I’d change, how we maintain it in Northern Ontario, and every accessory that’s actually worth buying.

Looking for the exact pool we bought?

✔ 24ft size

✔ Sand filter included

✔ 52″ deep

✔ Heavy-duty galvanized steel frame

✔ Perfect for families

* Check Price on Amazon Canada

Feature	Intex Ultra XTR 24′
Diameter	24 ft
Depth	52″
Filter	Sand filter
Setup	2 adults
Fill Time	~4 days
Family Size	8–10 people
Best For	Families with kids
Our Rating	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Reasons to Love The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft Pool

Before purchasing this particular above ground pool, I searched hard to find the right one that met our needs.

We decided on the 24ft Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool for multiple reasons, like the sand filter system it comes with and their exceptional customer service. The included sand filter has kept our water crystal clear.

One of my favourite features is the look of the dark grey liner because it looks much more modern than traditional blue pools. In addition, the heavy-duty galvanized steel frame feels incredibly sturdy and also has great reviews. Not to mention the size of the pool—Intex really knows how to do pools and offer a wide range of sizes for families.

If the size is a bit overwhelming and you want something more manageable for your first above ground pool, you could go with the 18ft Intex Ultra XTR. It is also 52″ deep, and has all of the same features, just a tad smaller.

Why We Chose The Intex Ultra XTR Instead of Coleman or Bestway

The Intex Ultra XTR won it for us for many reasons:

stronger frame
better heavy duty sand pump
easier replacement parts
customer service
larger community
accessories fit

Is The 24Ft Intex Pool Worth The Money?

After using ours every summer with three kids and a dog, I’d buy it again without hesitation.

Why? The replacement parts were easy to get under warranty, plus easy to order online on the Intex website or on Amazon.

If your yard has the space and your budget allows, I genuinely recommend choosing the 24-foot model. We debated between the 18-foot and 24-foot versions, and I’ve never once wished we’d gone smaller. Having extra room for friends, family, pool games, and floaties has been worth every penny.

Some of my favourite summer memories have been watching the kids spend entire afternoons swimming with their friends while the adults relaxed on floaties nearby. It completely changed how we spend our summers at home.

This Pool Is Perfect For You If…

You have 2+ kids
You entertain often
You have a large backyard
You want a cost effective alternative to an inground pool
You enjoy floating and relaxing with room to spare

Related: Springfree Trampoline Review

Intex Above Ground Pool Set-Up

Steps to Take before Pool Set-Up

ensure ground is level
use sand, pavement, or patio stone to create a level surface
use patio stones, concrete slab, or foam tiles as a base (or just sand like we did) recommended for comfort and to protect the liner
try to remove and sharp rocks or twigs before laying the liner
make sure an outlet is the correct distance away to plug in the filter
only install the legs on a non-windy day (avoid a disaster) and fill with water right away to weigh down the pool

Steps to Take While Filling The Pool

make sure legs are always straight and the liner is pulled flat while filling
never try to move the frame once put together, as cracks can form in the joints and replacement parts will be needed
get in a brush any dirt, grime, sand, or algae and remove leaves, twigs, etc.
depending on your water pressure, it took approximately 4 days to fill our 24ft pool
now’s the time to set up the filter
check every so often to ensure the legs are straight, and the outer band is also straight
when halfway filled, make sure the filter is installed with the inlets and outlets, and lock them
when water covers the inlets, unlock them to allow water to flow through and start running the filter

Pool Maintenance in Northern Ontario, Canada

Pool set-up should be after May 24 long weekend or the first few weeks of June when temps are consistently above 15 degrees.
Take down would be the first week of September, but some push it until the end of September.
Chlorinated pucks in a floatie for constant chlorination.
Regular shock treatment for specific pool size, after heavy rainfall or heavy use.
Use chlorine test strips to determine if you’re low on chlorine and need to shock.
Always shock at night, no more swimming after shocking.
Keep filter running for at least 12 hours – 24 hours a day for crystal clear water.
Backwash and rinse regularly when RPM reaches 10 on the filter gage, or after heavy use or rainfall.

Pros and Cons of a 24 Ft Above Ground Pool

After using our pool for several summers, we’ve discovered there are far more advantages than disadvantages. Here are the biggest pros and cons we’ve experienced as a family.

Pros:

big enough for a medium-large family
if you have 2 or more kids
if you have a dog as well
if you look forward to pool parties!
for family and friends, hosting, and events
big enough for swimming and floaties
big enough for a volleyball game with multiple players
big enough for teenagers (think ahead)
deep enough for comfortable swimming and exercise
no swim lessons needed—kids will learn super fast

Cons:

doubling up on chlorine pucks due to size (2 pucks each per floater, 2 floaters)
regular backwashing and rinsing filter (after heavy use, rainfall, etc)
regular shocking as needed (same as above)
needs filter to be running 24/7
could be too deep for younger children (always monitor at any age)

Related: 50 Summer Kids Activities for The Backyard

Landscaping Ideas Around An Above Ground Pool:

build your own wooden pool stairs, steps, and deck
use a lockable gate to keep kids/pets out when not in use
upgrade to easy accessible pool steps inside and out
upgrade to a sturdier ladder with a retractable locking mechanism
use landscaping cloth around pool to keep weeds from growing too close to the liner

Best Pool Floats For An Above Ground Pool

These affordable floating chairs are great for relaxing and chatting in the pool with a friend and a cold drink in hand.

For tanning, you’ll want a set of loungers like these to support the full body while floating around.

Best Pool Floats for The Kids

Our kids love a good flamingo floatie to lounge on, as well as ride on floats like this whale with handles to hold onto that’s fun for kids of any age.

Best Pool Games For Families

If you’re anything like us and love playing cards, you’ll want to grab this waterproof card deck! We usually play Crazy 8’s, Rummy, Go Fish, and more.

The kids love using these weighted pool rings to dive and collect at the bottom of the pool. Serious never-ending fun for them.

This barbie seashell diving toy has been a huge hit with the little ones, trying to catch the mermaid as it spins to the top of the water.

We use these reusable water balloons made out of silicone for more fun.

These water squirters are a hit with the little ones, as they spray outwards for refreshing fun.

We can never have enough goggles for underwater swimming! These anti-fog and anti leaking goggles are our fave.

This inflatable volleyball net is a must for v-ball games in the pool. We also love a good versatile water ball to toss around and play with.

What I’d Buy Again

These poolside storage baskets are one of my favourite upgrades because nobody has to leave the water to grab sunscreen, goggles, or drinks.

My Top 5 Above Ground Pool Must Haves

Intex Pool (the best in quality and durability)
Pool skimmer (sucks in and captures everything from leaves, twigs, bugs etc.)
Floating chlorine dispenser (our flamingo is the cutest)
Storage baskets (a must for drinks, toys, with hooks for hanging towels and arm floaties)
Brush (for sweeping bottom and sides of pool, while the filter & skimmer does the rest!)

Above Ground Swimming Pool FAQS

Is a 24ft above ground pool worth it?
Absolutely. After owning ours for multiple summers, it’s one of the best purchases we’ve made for our backyard. The galvanized steel frame feels sturdy, the included sand filter keeps the water crystal clear, and the 24-foot size gives plenty of room for our family, friends, and even our dog to enjoy the pool together. If you’re looking for an above ground pool that feels spacious without the cost of an in-ground pool, I’d happily buy this one again.

How many people fit in a 24ft above ground pool?
Comfortably, our pool fits 8–10 people depending on what you’re doing. We’ve had several adults floating while the kids play games, and it never feels overcrowded. It’s also large enough for inflatable loungers, volleyball games, and swimming laps.

How long does it take to fill?
For us in Northern Ontario, it took about four days using our outdoor hose. The exact time depends on your home’s water pressure and whether you’re using more than one hose. We checked the frame regularly while filling to make sure the legs stayed straight and the liner remained smooth.

How much chlorine does it need?
Every pool is different, so always test your water before adding chemicals. In our 24ft pool, we typically keep two floating dispensers with two chlorine tablets in each for ongoing chlorination. After heavy rain, lots of swimmers, or topping up the water, we usually shock the pool at night and run the filter continuously afterward.

Is the Intex Ultra XTR easy to install?
As long as you have at least two adults to make the process easier. The most important step is making sure the ground is perfectly level before setting up the frame. Never set up on a stormy/windy day. Once assembled, avoid trying to move the pool, as doing so can damage the frame connections. After that, it’s mostly a matter of waiting for the pool to fill.

Can you leave it up in winter?
That depends on your climate. Here in Northern Ontario, we take ours down each fall because freezing temperatures can damage the liner and frame. If you live somewhere with mild winters, always follow Intex’s recommendations for your model before deciding to leave it up year-round.

How long does the liner last?
With proper care, many owners get several years from the liner. We help extend its life by keeping the water balanced, removing debris regularly, avoiding sharp objects around the pool, and taking it down before winter. A protective base under the liner also helps reduce wear.

Is the sand filter better than the cartridge filter?
Yes. One of the reasons we chose the Ultra XTR over other above ground pools was the included sand filter system. It has done an excellent job keeping our water clear throughout the summer. We simply backwash and rinse it as needed, keep it running regularly, and maintain proper chlorine levels. For our family, we’ve never felt the need to upgrade as it’s the best of the best. And replacements are easy to order.

How Much Does a 24ft Above Ground Pool Cost?

Item	Approximate Cost (CAD)	Notes
Intex Ultra XTR 24ft Pool	$2,000–$2,800	Depends on sales and time of year.
Water to Fill Pool	$0–$300	Free if on a well; municipal water costs vary by location.
3″ Chlorine Tablets	$120–$250 per season	One of the biggest ongoing costs.
Shock Treatment	$50–$120 per season	More after heavy rain or lots of swimming.
Test Strips	$20–$40 per season	We usually keep extras on hand.
Replacement Sand (every 3–5 years)	$25–$60	Not an annual expense.
Electricity (Pump)	$150–$350 per season	Varies based on hydro rates and pump run time.
Solar Cover	$100–$250	Optional but highly recommended.
Skimmer	$30–$80	Worth every penny.
Vacuum	$70–$200	Makes cleaning much easier.
Pool Toys & Floats	$100–$500+	This can grow quickly if you have kids!

Estimated First-Year Cost

Budget setup: $2,600–$3,300 CAD

Most families: $3,300–$4,200 CAD

If you decide to build a deck, install upgraded stairs, add landscaping, or purchase extra accessories like a waterfall attachment and lighting, your total investment can easily reach $5,000–$8,000 CAD.

Good news: Once you’ve purchased the pool, each following summer is much less expensive. Our biggest ongoing costs are chlorine tablets, shock treatment, and electricity to run the pump. Most of the accessories are one-time purchases that we continue to use year after year.

Intex Ultra XTR vs Bestway vs Coleman

Feature	Intex Ultra XTR	Coleman	Bestway
Sand filter	✅	Some models	Some models
Galvanized steel frame	✅	✅	✅
Easy replacement parts	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐
Customer support	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐
Our recommendation	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐

One thing that I didn’t expect would stand out about our Intex model is the quality and durability of the structure itself. Not to say our kids can be rough on things, but it does surprisingly withstand a bunch of kids playfully swimming and having fun. And I can sleep at night knowing how easy it is to order a replacement part if need be.

Things I Would Do Differently

If I were buying our pool again I’d:

build a deck and stairs sooner
buy an upgraded ladder or in and out pool steps immediately
purchase a skimmer the same day
order a solar cover from day one
install a waterfall attachment and poolsode bar tables sooner
invest in landscaping like edging, river rocks, and stepping stones

Would I Buy It Again?

Absolutely.

If I had to replace our pool tomorrow, I’d order the exact same 24ft Ultra XTR. It’s been one of the best purchases we’ve made for family summers.

One of my favourite things about owning this pool isn’t just the kids having fun—it’s being able to relax after a long day. Whether I’m floating in the water or enjoying a cold drink by the pool, it’s completely changed how we spend summer evenings at home.