The Best Pool Cartridge Filter

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What is the best pool filter cartridge? Most pool owners do not know the best pool filter to buy, and that can make them buy the wrong ones for their pools. 

Having the right cartridge filter means you get a clean pool and minimize the chemicals you add to your facility. Today we have reviewed the top six cartridge filters to help you make an informed decision when buying them. 

Review of Top 6 Pool Cartridge Filters 

These are the top six pool cartridge filters that you can install to clean your swimming pool. 

1. Hayward EC40AC Perflex Extended-Cycle D.E Pool Filter 

Hayward EC40AC Specifications:

• Product measurements: 14.8 x 14.7 x 4.3 inches 
• Product weight: 13.7 pounds 
• Brand: Hayward

In-depth Review 

EC40AC is a pool filter that can clean your pool fast to leave you with ideal water for taking a swim. It helps to remove all particles of two microns and bigger within the first round. 

The unit boasts of a patented flex-tube design that provides longer cycles between filtering. That is possible because the same D.E filter material is the only powder used. 

Another feature is the superb pump of the system that allows the D.E tubes to clean instantly. You do not need to keep on cleaning the system as it is self-cleaning. 

It is also one of the easiest to install products you can get for your swimming pool. You can quickly assemble or install the system as it comes with clear instructions. 

2. Hayward W3EC40C92S Perflex 1 H.P. D.E Filter Pump System 

Hayward W3EC40C92S Specifications:

• Product measurements: 23.9 x 14.4 x 26.9 inches 
• Product weight: 62.9 pounds
• Brand: Hayward 

In-depth Review 

It is the ideal model for above ground pool and comes with an EC40AC filter to collect even the tiniest of debris. Its 1 H.P. PowerFlow matrix pump makes it strong enough to circulate the water faster. 

The model connects to standard connections of up to 1.5 inches. It is a model that can clean your facility fast to ensure that you swim in a clean pool. 

Another feature is the heavy-duty filter tank that remains free of rust. That allows your system to last for decades without being affected by the pool water. 

It also comes with a flex-tube design that allows for sparkling water that you can swim in without worry. And the flex-tube cleans itself – you do not need to maintain the tube. 

3. Hayward W3DE3620 ProGrid D.E. Pool Filter

Hayward W3DE3620 Specifications:

• Product measurements: 21 x 22.5 x 34 inches 
• Product weight: 65.9 pounds
• Brand: Hayward 

In-depth Review 

The system comes with a ProGrid 36 sq. ft. filter that provides better performance compared to most filters. It works hard to provide you with crystal clear water. 

The filter comes with high-impact grid materials that allow for up-flow cleaning and top-down backwash. That plays a critical role in guaranteeing you maximum efficiency. 

Its long-lasting, glass-reinforced copolymer body ensures it remains free of rust and withstands all weather. The one-piece clamp design provides quick access to all internal parts without affecting the plumbing. 

Another feature is the rapid-release air relief valve that helps you to remove excess air. The model can give you value for money, as it is quite durable.  

4. Hayward EC75 Extended Cycle DE Inground pool Filter System 

Hayward EC75 Specifications:

• Product measurements: 21 x 22 x 30 inches
• Product weight: 66 pounds 
• Brand: Hayward

In-depth Review 

The filter system comes with a 1 H.P. pump that guarantees adequate water circulation. It also features a rust-proof base made of poly material to give it durability.  

The unit is suitable for inground pool of up to 38,400 gallons. It can quickly turn over that water within an 8-hour cycle. 

You need to add a 7-pound D.E filter for the system to remove even the smallest of particles. The system connects to a 110-220 power source and is U.L listed. 

It takes less than 30 minutes to assemble and install it to start cleaning the pool. Its compact design makes it suitable for mounting in places with limited spaces. 

5. Hayward C9002SEP ProGrid D.E. Pool Filter Separation Tank 

Hayward C9002SEP Specifications:

• Product measurements: 13.5 x 13.5 x 30.5 inches 
• Product weight: 4 ounces 
• Brand: Hayward 

In-depth Review 

It is the perfect tank for vertical grid D.E. filters of about 80 feet of filtration area. The system comes fitted with 2-inch S.K.T. or 2-inch F.I.P. connections to provide full-flow performance. 

It also features a rugged, reusable containment bag made of polypropylene material and can hold up to 10 pounds of filter powder. That bag has a single locking knob that allows you to access the used powder with ease.

Another great thing about the model is the lightweight design that enables you to carry it with ease. That comes in handy when installing it as you do not need help from another person. 

The product gives you the durability to last you for years without getting damaged. 

6. Pentair 180008 FNS Plus Fiberglass Reinforced Polypropylene Material 

Pentair 180008 Specifications:

• Product measurements: 22 x 22.5 x 45 inches 
• Product weight: 72 pounds 
• Brand: Pentair 

In-depth Review 

One unique feature of this product is the chemical-resistant polypropylene tank that is reinforced with fiberglass. That rests your mind since you know it can last for years without getting rust. 

The product also has a filter grid pack that you can take out without a hassle. What that means is you can clean the filter when it gets dirty. 

Another feature is the excellent internal design that guarantees optimal filtration. The design also comes in handy when backwashing your filter. 

It operates at a maximum pressure of 50 Psi and is perfect for pools and spa. The unit can handle a high temperature of 104 degrees F. 

It has a curved design that allows for maximum water flow when entering the filter chamber. 

Buying Guide: Pool Cartridge Filter System

Although all cartridge filters do the same job, there are some which are better than others. That is why you need to know how to choose the ideal model for your swimming pool by answering these questions.

1. What Size Filter Does My Pool Need?

Knowing the perfect filter size before you start to look for one can ensure you choose the correct model. Look at your facility’s pump to figure out the G.P.H. or flow rate it can accommodate. 

From there, get a cartridge filter that can match 100 sq. ft. with 10,000 gallons of water. Thus, if your pool can hold about 25,000 gallons, buy a filter with approximately 250 sq. ft. 

Things to note: Your cartridge filter will never clog if you size it correctly, and it will allow more water to pass through. It might be possible to run if for the whole season without cleaning it.  

2. What Size of Dirt Do I Want to Filter?

The other thing to consider is the impurities you wish to filter out, measured in microns. A micron is equal to 1/1,000,000 m or 0.0000394 of an inch.

Your eyes can see particles of up to 35 microns without using a magnifying lens. Cartridge filters are rated according to the microns they can trap.

The lower the rating, the better the filter can clean your pool. If possible, you should get a cartridge filter that can trap particles of about one micron. 

Something to note: Cartridge pool filters are often rated to remove particles of about 10 microns.  

3. How Regularly Should Will I Replace the Cartridge Filter?

It is possible to get a product that needs to be replaced every seven days while the other takes one to two years. Read the brand’s instructions when buying these systems to avoid the nasty shock in the coming days.  

A few years ago, a cartridge filter could last for over two years. That has changed due to the increased use of hair products, deodorants, and sunscreens by swimmers. 

Professional tip: You can extend your system’s life by ensuring that the swimmers shower or rinse off before taking a swim.  

4. What is My Budget?

You should always consider your budget before you decide to buy a pool product or accessory. With that said, remember that you want a cartridge filter that you can use for years, so it should be quality.

A quality product might be more expensive than a lowly constructed one.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Let us look at some of the frequently asked questions about cartridge filters.

Q: How to Clean a Pool Cartridge Filter?

A: You should consider cleaning your cartridge filter when the pressure gauge shows 10 P.S.I. over the normal operating pressure. Follow these steps:

• Turn the filter pump off
• Open the air relief valve 
• Open the tank and take out the filter 
• Spray the filter with a hose to clean loose debris 
• Soak the filter in a solution of cartridge cleaner tablets and water for 25 minutes to remove oils
• Rinse the filter and leave it to dry 
• Reinsert the filter and close the air valve 
• Turn the pump on  

Q: How to Backwash a Pool with a Cartridge Filter?

A: A cartridge filter does not have a backwash valve because it was not designed for this purpose. Instead, you can:

• shut the pump, 
• open the air bleeder to drain the tank, 
• remove the lid, 
• remove the cartridge, 
• hose the system, and 
• then replace. 

Q: What Size Cartridge Filter Do I Need for My Pool?

A: You should get a cartridge filter that has the same flow rate as the G.P.M of the pump or higher. That means ensuring one sq. ft. of the filter covers 10,000 gallons of water. 

The bigger the cartridge filter, the better, but it might be more expensive. 

Q: How Often to Clean Pool Cartridge Filter?

A: A cartridge filter should be cleaned after two to six weeks. One thing that can affect this accessory is the flow rate when it gets dirty. 

It might not filter the water the right way if you fail to clean it for a long time.

Q: When to Replace Pool Filter Cartridge?

A: A pool filter cartridge can provide up to 2,000 hours of service in a filter pump. Generally, you should replace it once in two years to guarantee efficiency. 

However, the filter might not last that long, depending on the size of the pool and how often you use your facility. 

In Conclusion 

The best pool cartridge filter system can be the perfect choice to keep your pool clean and sparkling. It requires little maintenance, is a powerful accessory, and can save you bucks on energy and water cost. 

A cartridge pool filter can do a demanding task when keeping your facility clean and remove unwanted contaminants.