First thing that caught my eye was that your "chemistry couldn't be more perfect." With the mess that you describe, I doubt that is true.
You really need to be able to test your own pool. Pool stores are in the business to make money. They make money selling you pool products, so it doesn't benefit their coffers to tell you that your pool is perfect because then you don't buy stuff. So, unfortunately, pool store testing is notoriously inaccurate.
The test kit that we think is by far the best is the Taylor K2006 or 2006C (better buy). Not available locally but you can get it through this link that takes you to Amazon: http://pool9.net/tk/
But, in the meantime, go to Walmart and see if they have the HTH 6-Way drops-based kit (no test strips!) and get that. If they don't, get an OTO/Phenol Red kit (yellow and red drops) instead. Use it to test and then post your numbers. Also while you are at WallyWorld, get several jugs of their generic 8.25% bleach and a couple of boxes of 20 Mule Team Borax (laundry aisle).
I'll let someone else discuss the Intex equipment questions with you who is more familiar with those than I am.
Repost with some good testing numbers when you get them.
Hope this helps some. Welcome to the Pool Forum!
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Edit --- Here is the link to the 'recipe.' http://pool9.net/ssr/
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