Timer for Intex metal frame pool?

Hi There,

We have a 12 x 30" round Intex pool. Does anyone know if these types of pools are able to be used with a timer? I have purchased a programmable timer but cannot seem to get it to turn the pump on or off. The plug in for the pump has a button that you have to press each time to turn it on and off. Not sure if this would have anything to do with it or not.
We are considering going away for a few days and have no one to look after the pool. Last year we left for 2 days and I just dumped a gallon of bleach in and shocked the pool. Covered it and did not run the pump. Was fine when we got back. It will be about 4 days, so thought if I did the same and bought a timer we might be good to go.. Does not seem to be the case!
Would appreciate any comments.

Cheers,
Carrie

If you have to press the button each time to start the pump, then for the timer to work, you would have to remove the switch from the pump cord. If the cord is long enough cut the power cable at the switch, and put a plug on the cable.