While pool pumps help circulate water to keep it free from bacteria and algae, it is possible to clean a pool without a pump. This is especially true for small pools and above ground pools.
Your pool can keep running for a few days with no problems while without a pump. However, know that a standard pool needs a pool running for at least once in 24 hours, or you might notice an algae bloom. So, it's best to have your pump ready as soon as possible.
All other types of Intex swimming pools do not require an air pump.
The average outdoor spigot on a home can produce up to 12 gallons per minute. A small pool can be filled in a few hours, while a large one can take 14 hours.
Submerge one end of the hose inside the kiddie pool, close to the center. Lay the other end of the garden hose lower than the kiddie pool, leaving it in the location where you want to release all the water. The water flow should then reverse, and the kiddie pool will begin to drain.
Fill one container with water and place it on the higher surface. Place the empty container on the lower surface. Put one end of the hose in the full water container. Fill the hose with water either by completely submerging it or by sucking water through it.
To keep the pool clean without a filter, it is necessary to use chlorine with a flocculant or to use a flocculant chemical. This product groups the impurities that float in the water, causing them to fall to the bottom of the pool so that they can be removed later with a cleaner.
In most cases, you can operate the cartridge pool filter without the filter cartridge inside the tank just to maintain circulation as you wait for the cartridge to dry. However, doing so requires you to ensure you've removed all the internal parts and reassembled the tank tightly.
At the bare minimum, yes you should put a tarp underneath your Intex pool. Inflatable pools, Bestway and Summer Ways pools will also benefit from a tarp. Although a tarp will help protect your pool there are far better choices such as foam tiles or proper commercial under pool pads.
I think the answer to your question is about 3-6 days. The problem is that the chlorine that you need to keep the bacteria in check is used up more quickly as the temperature rises, the activity increases, and as sweat and other body stuff is put into the pool.
You can do your own pool work, including using chlorine--even without a filter.