The pool filter cartridge is an often-overlooked part of the pool filtration system, but it’s just as important as any other part of the pool setup. If you have a cartridge filter, a clogged or worn cartridge can make your pool look cloudy, and a cartridge that’s too large for your pool can result in water waste. If you have a D.E. pool filter, a worn cartridge can result in water with a chalky white film and can also make it harder to reach the right pH.
To help you select the right pool filter cartridge for your pool, here’s what to look for and our top picks at a variety of price points.
Our Editor’s Best Pool Filter Cartridges Reviews
- 【SPECIFICATIONS】Length: 23 1/4"; Outside Diameter: 8 15/16"; Top Bottom Opening: 4"; Bottom Opening: 4"; Material Area: 120 Sq.ft; Filter Material: Trilobal Filtration Fabric.
- 【COMPATIBLE MODELS】PLF120A Pool Filter compatible Hayward Star Clear Plus C1200 / CX1200RE, Unicel C-8412, Porpoise PP-B2, Clearwater II ProClean 125, Aladdin 22002, Filbur FC-1293, AK-7005. ★NOTE: This is a compatible spare part and the manufacturers' names and part numbers have been used for reference purposes only. POOLPURE is an independent brand.
- 【NSF/ANSI 50 CERTIFIED】Poolpure Pool and Spa filter is tested and certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50 for safe material. The filter fabric with a precision of 50 microns can remove hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand and other fine particles.
- 【POWERFUL DIRT HOLDING CAPACITY】The unique trilobal filtration fabric has a greater effective surface area, which can increase back press- sure throughout your entire filtration system, and provide you with clean, fresh and clear water.
- 【EASY TO CLEAN】Uniformity and high-performance trilobal fabric make it easier to capture and release stains, so it's easy for you to wash the filter after use. It is recommended that you clean the cartridges every 2 weeks dependon usage to maximize your pool's performance.
- 【SIZE】Length: 26-1/16"; Outside Diameter: 7"; Top Opening: 3"; Bottom Opening: 3"; Material Area: 4×105 sq.ft.
- 【COMPATIBLE MODELS】Compatible with Clean and Clear Plus 420, CCP420, C-7471, R173576,178584, PCC105-PAK4, FC-1977, 160301, Waterway Crystal Water 425, 570-0425, 570-0425-07, SD-00163, AK-60431, Aladdin 20503, FC-6470.26"x7".Note：The manufacturer’s name and part number have been used for reference purposes only. CRYSPOOL is an independent brand.
- 【QUALIFIED MATERIAL】The advanced material of trilobal fibers is utilized. Cutting-edge technologies make the capacity higher than common point-bond fabric. It makes water filtration more thoroughly and service life longer.
- 【EASY CLEANING】The Improved Trilobal Fabric Filter Structure enables the deep penetration of impurities into filter pleats when we wash it, the filter is a totally brand-new one after cleaning. It’s recommended to clean the filter when the pressure gauge reaches the predetermined value, so as to take full advantage of its performance.
- 【GOOD CHOICE FOR FILTERS】With our qualified material, end caps as well as pleats, the filters are easy to clean, strong to filter, sturdy to hold in position. If cleaned regularly more often, its service life can be largely enhanced, the water usage will also be largely minimized.
- Perfect Match: Compatible with Hayward Star Clear Plus C1200 pool filter. Replacement for Hayward CX1200RE, Pleatco PA120/PA120-4, Unicel C-8412, Filbur FC-1293, Waterway Pro Clean PCCF-125, 817-0125N, Clearwater II 125. All manufacturers' names and part numbers are used for compatibility information only
- Dimension: With an outer diameter of 8-15/16'', inner diameter of 4'' and a height of 23-1/4'', C1200 pool filter cartridge can be easily installed in your filter without worrying about leaks or compatibility issues
- Powerful Filtration: Made from ultra-fine and heavy-duty paper with more pleats, it maximizes filtration efficiency, easily removes debris, and keeps your pool clean at all times
- Extremely Enduring: C1200 pool filter cartridge features spunbond polyester and a strong inner core, making it capable of withstanding high-pressure water flow and enduring enough to be a worthwhile investment for your pool
- Economical Pool Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and reusing the filter cartridge is a simple way to minimize water usage. We recommend cleaning the cartridge monthly to maximize its effectiveness and ensure a clean swimming experience
- ➤SPECIFICATIONS: Length: 26"; Outside Diameter: 7"; Top Opening: 3"; Bottom Opening: 3"; Material Area: 105 Sq.ft; Filter Material: Trilobal Filtration Fabric.
- ➤COMPATIBLE MODELS: PLF105A Pool Filter compatible Pentair CCP420, 160301, Waterway Crystal Water 425, 570-0425, SD-00163, AK-60431, Aladdin 20503, Filbur FC-6470. ★NOTE: This is a compatible spare part and the manufacturers' names and part numbers have been used for reference purposes only. POOLPURE is an independent brand.
- ➤NSF/ANSI 50 CERTIFIED: Poolpure Pool and Spa filter is tested and certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50 for safe material. The filter fabric with a precision of 50 microns can remove hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand and other fine particles.
- ➤POWERFUL DIRT HOLDING CAPACITY: The unique trilobal filtration fabric has a greater effective surface area, which can increase back press- sure throughout your entire filtration system, and provide you with clean, fresh and clear water.
- ➤EASY TO CLEAN: Uniformity and high-performance trilobal fabric make it easier to capture and release stains, so it's easy for you to wash the filter after use. It is recommended that you clean the cartridges every month dependon usage to maximize your pool's performance.
- Intext Easy Set Pool Type A or C Filter Cartridge Twin Pack**
- For the 500, 530, 800, 1000 & 1500 gal/hr filter pumps models 28603EG, 28637EG, 28635EG, 28671EG, 58603E, 58604E, 56635E, 56636E, 56637E, 56638E & 58623 Intex filter pumps or "Krystal Clear" filter pumps models 02 & 12R
- A must have accessory to the Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump, this filter cartridge is made with easy to clean Dacron paper for the ultimate filtration
- For maximum efficiency, replace cartridges every two weeks
- Shipping Weight: 2 LBS
- ➤SPECIFICATIONS:Length: 31 1/8"; Outside Diameter: 10 1/16"; Top & Bottom Opening: 6" ; Filtration Area: 150 sq. ft; Filter Material: Trilobal Filtration Fabric.
- ➤COMPATIBLE MODELS: PLF150A Pool Filter is compatible with Pentair Clean and Clear 150, Posi-Clear PCRP150, R173216, 59054300, PAP150-4, Unicel C-9415, Filbur FC-0687, Aladdin 25005. ★NOTE: This is a compatible replacement. Original manufacturers' names and part numbers are for reference only. POOLPURE stands as an independent brand.
- ➤NSF/ANSI 50 CERTIFIED: POOLPURE Pool and Spa filter has been rigorously tested and certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50, ensuring safe material usage. With a precision of 50 microns, our filter effectively removes hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand, and other fine particles.
- ➤POWERFUL FILTRATION CAPACITY: Our unique trilobal filtration fabric offers an enhanced surface area, optimizing back pressure throughout your filtration system. This ensures consistently clean, fresh, and clear water for your pool or spa.
- ➤EASY MAINTENANCE: The uniform and high-performing trilobal fabric ensures effortless stain capture and release, simplifying the cleaning process. For optimal performance, it's recommended to clean the cartridges monthly, depending on usage.
- In The Swim Standard Replacement Filter Cartridge CCP420 4-Pack Set is designed for the Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 420 Pool Filter.
- Each filter is crafted with meticulous detail to meet or exceed OEM specifications for superior filtration.
- Compatible with Pleatco PCC105, Unicel C-7471, and Filbur FC-1977.
- The filters are resistant to cracking and chemical deterioration, ensuring durability and ease of use.
- Ideal for restoring your pool's crystal-clear shine, these filters require minimal effort for maximum filtration results.
- Made in USA with high quality filtration media that was made specifically for durability and cleanability. Includes support bands around each cartridge element.
- Compatible Replacement for Pentair CCP420 Cartridge Filter (PN 160301), Compatible Replacement for Waterway Crystal Water 105 SQFT (817-0106), 420SQFT Compatible Replacement for Jacuzzi J-CQ420 JCF425 Cartridge Filters (PN 42287, 570-0425-09LE)
- Inside Diameter: 3", Outside Diameter: 7”, Length: 26-1/16”
- Compatible Repalcement for Parts: OEM# 178584, R173576, R173476 Unicel# C-7471 / C7471, C-7471-4, C-7471RA, Pleatco# PCC-105 / PCC105, PCC105-PAK4, PCC105-M, PCC105-M-PAK4, Filbur# FC-6470, FC-1977 / FC1977, FC-1977M, FC-1977P, Aladdin# 20503, Misc 817-0106-LE, 45011
- NOTE: This is a compatible aftermarket replacement part made in the USA. The manufacturers' names and part numbers have been used for reference purposes only. Optimum Pool Technologies Inc is an independent brand.
- Perfect Match: Compatible with Pentair Clean & Clear 150, CCRP 150, 160317, 160355 pool filter. Replacement for Pentair R173216, Pleatco PAP150/PAP150-4, Predator 150, Unicel C-9415, Filbur FC-0687 and more. All manufacturers' names and part numbers are used for compatibility information only
- Dimension: With an outer diameter of 10-1/16'', inner diameter of 6'' and a height of 31-1/8'', our filter cartridge can be easily installed in your filter without worrying about leaks or compatibility issues
- Powerful Filtration: Made from ultra-fine and heavy-duty paper with more pleats, it maximizes filtration efficiency, easily removes debris, and keeps your pool clean at all times
- Extremely Enduring: This filter cartridge features spunbond polyester and a strong inner core, making it capable of withstanding high-pressure water flow and enduring enough to be a worthwhile investment for your pool
- Economical Pool Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and reusing the filter cartridge is a simple way to minimize water usage. We recommend cleaning the cartridge monthly to maximize its effectiveness and ensure a clean swimming experience
- 【Accurate Compatible for Modes 】: Jandy CV460,CL460,PJAN115,PJAN115-PAK4,FC-6410,FC-0810,XLS-705,Ultral-A9, Unicel C-7468, Filbur FC-0810, Excel Filters XLS-705, FC-6410, Aladdin 21501, Baleen AK-60432『Note』:The manufacturer's name and part number have been used for reference purposes only. POOLNEAT is an independent brand
- 【Product Specification】:Length: 27", Outer Dimension: 7 " ;Top/Bottom Opening : 3". Filtration Area: 115sq.ft. Material Level: Premium.
- 【Advanced Trilbal Fibers Material-Efficient Filtration】:The utilization of the advanced material of trilobal fibers, achieved through cutting-edge technologies, results in a higher capacity than that of common point-bond fabric. This advanced design enhances water filtration efficiency and doubles the service life of the filter.
- 【Simply Durability Design-Easy Cleanning】.The evenly-unfolded filter pleats, crafted from the high-quality material of Reemay, effectively enhance their dirt-holding capacity, ensuring superior performance in water filtration. Furthermore, the ease of cleaning these pleats is remarkable, allowing for thorough washing and repeated use of the cartridge, thus ensuring its durability and cost-effectiveness over time.
- 【Best Quality-Cost Effective】We Provide 6 Money Back service due to product quality problems and 7-24H after selling service will be provided.Please contact us for free if you have any problems.
Best Pool Filter Cartridges Buying Guide
Before choosing the best pool filter you should consider following options:
1. Pool Filter Media Types: There are two main types of pool filter media: sand and cartridge. Sand filters are the most traditional pool filter. They consist of a tank, a pad of sand, and a series of valves that pump water in and out.
Sand filters are inexpensive to repair and maintain. Sand is easy to find and relatively inexpensive. Sand filters are also easier to maintain because you can backwash them when clogged and change the media when needed.
The downside of sand filters is that they clog easily and the flow rate is slow. Cartridge filters are the most popular option for new pools. They consist of a tank, a series of valves, and two chambers separated by a filter.
One chamber holds the filter media, which can be either a polyester or polypropylene cartridge, and the other chamber holds water. When the valves are open, water flows from one chamber to the other. When the valves are closed, water can only flow through the filter media.
Cartridge filters are easier to maintain because you don’t have to backwash them. They have a faster flow rate than sand filters, but they’re more expensive. They’re also more difficult to repair because replacement cartridges aren’t readily available.
2. Pool Filter Size: Pool filters come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small bar-type filters to large cartridge filters.
Smaller pool filters are typically bar and cartridge filters, but they are also available in sand filter configurations. Bar and cartridge filters are good for pools with capacities of up to 10,000 gallons.
Large cartridge filters are generally used in pools with capacities from 15,000 to 30,000 gallons. Large sand filters are used in pools with capacities from 30,000 to 60,000 gallons.
Large sand filters are also available for larger pools, but for pools with capacities above 60,000 gallons, you’ll need a dual-tank system with one pump for water entry and a second pump for discharge.
3. Pool Filter Efficiency: Filter efficiency is measured by the percent efficiency rating (EPM) of the filter. The EPM is equal to the percentage of free flow rate that’s available through the filter media divided by the total flow rate.
A filter with an EPM of 60 indicates that 60 percent of the water flow is available through the media while 40 percent is bypassed.
Filter efficiency is important because it indicates how well the filter will clean the water. The higher the EPM, the better the filter, but you don’t need a filter with a very high EPM.
For example, a pool with a flow rate of 10,000 gallons per hour should have a filter with an EPM of 60 or higher. If you have a pool with a higher flow rate, you’ll need a filter with a higher EPM.
4. Pool Filter Cost: The cost of a pool filter varies depending on the media type, size, and efficiency.
Cartridge filters are typically more expensive than sand filters, but that’s because they have better features, such as better flow rates. You can find cartridge filters with EPMs as high as 500.
Sand filters typically have EPMs of between 50 and 100. They are usually the least expensive option for pools with capacities up to 10,000 gallons. Bar filters are typically the least expensive option for pools with capacities from 10,000 to 20,000 gallons.
They have an EPM
What else you should know about pool filter cartridges
1.What is the difference between a cartridge and a sand filter?
The difference between a cartridge and a sand filter is that a cartridge filter uses a pleated paper filter that captures contaminants as water flows through it, while a sand filter uses sand to trap contaminants as water flows through it.
2.What are the pros and cons of cartridge filters?
Cartridge filters have several advantages over other types of filters. They are easy to install and maintain, and they can be used with a wide variety of filter media. Cartridge filters also have a very high flow rate and can be used to filter large volumes of water quickly.
One disadvantage of cartridge filters is that they can be more expensive than other types of filters. Additionally, cartridge filters can become clogged more easily than other types of filters, and they may need to be replaced more frequently.
3.What is the best way to clean a cartridge filter?
The best way to clean a cartridge filter is to remove it and rinse it with a hose.
4.How often should I replace my pool filter cartridge?
The frequency of replacement will depend on the type of pool filter cartridge you have.
5.What are some common problems with cartridge filters?
Some common problems with cartridge filters are:
– They can be difficult to clean
– They can become clogged easily
– They can be expensive to replace
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best pool filter cartridges. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best pool filter cartridges will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.