Let me start off by saying, "THIS IS NOT A RECOMMENDATION!". I've never used an auto-cleaner in an AG pool, so what I'm saying below is based on research I just did, plus my knowledge of pools, not experience with the units.
Anyhow:
1. Your unlikely to find an auto-cleaner that is powered by the pool pump, and that works in Intex pools. The Intex pumps are just too small. That's not a bad thing -- most AG pumps are tool LARGE, but it does mean you can't use a pump powered vac.
2. Look through Amazon, I could see some people had tried, but the results had generally been unhappy. A few got the units to work, but were frustrated by what they had to go through to connect the vacuum each time.
3. That leaves electrically powered vacuums. My first thought was, "No way!", because those units are pricey, but I looked anyhow. I found the Aqua Products "Rover Jr" for on Amazon for under $300. That's still more than you thought, but a LOT less than I expected. Read through the reviews for yourself, but it looked to me like most of the people with problems had unrealistic expectations -- an auto vac like this will NOT get every last bit of debris; it WILL stir up dirt, some of which will re-settle after you remove the vac!
4. I looked up the manufacturer's website, and found the product page, http://www.aquaproducts.com/poolroverjunior.htm, along with the Pool Rover Jr operator's manual.
5. The Aqua Products support line is 800-845-4856.
6. I'd recommend reading through the product literature, and the Amazon reviews BEFORE buying. Then call Aqua Products and verify that it's acceptable to use it in an Intex; I didn't see anything but I didn't read every word, either. When you call, remember they are probably backed up right now, so you may need to call 10am on a Thursday, or something like that, to get through. Their hours are Monday through Friday 9AM - 4PM EST.
If you do buy one of these, please revisit this thread after you've used it, and let us know how it worked out!
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