What’s the secret to crystal-clear pool water? Many pool owners think it’s all about the chemicals, but a great filter cartridge plays a huge role! If you’ve ever stared at a wall of confusing filter options, you know the struggle. Do you need a standard filter, or one with extra protection? Picking the wrong one means less clean water and more headaches for you.
Choosing the perfect pool filter cartridge can feel like a guessing game. You worry about efficiency, how long it will last, and if it truly cleans out all that tiny debris. Getting it wrong means spending money on a filter that doesn’t deliver the sparkling pool you deserve.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to know about pool filter cartridges. You will learn how to match the right filter to your pool’s needs, saving you time and ensuring your water stays inviting all season long. Ready to become a cartridge expert? Let’s dive into the details of keeping your pool perfectly filtered.
Top Pool Filters Cartridge Recommendations
SaleNo. 1
POOLPURE CCP420 Pool Filter Replaces Pentair Clean and Clear Plus 420 4Pack
- 🍀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.
- 🏊Proud Partner of Florida Gators Swimming & Diving: PoolPure officially partners with the Florida Gators to support elite-level aquatic training. This collaboration reflects our shared focus on high-performance water quality, reliability, and consistency in demanding competitive environments.
- 📺Proven by Athletes & Media Tested in real training environments and featuring Olympic swimmer Rhyan White, our filters deliver reliable performance where it matters most—while recognition from NBC Local highlights our commitment to consistent filtration and superior water quality.
- 🍀NSF/ANSI 50 Certified Safety: PoolPure pool and spa filters are tested and certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50 standards for material safety. All components are proven safe for long-term water exposure, ensuring no harmful substances are released. Trusted by over 5 million pool owners, PoolPure delivers cleaner, safer pool and spa water for your family.
SaleNo. 2
Cryspool 07077 Pool Filter Cartridges Replace CCP420, R173576, 4 Pack
- 【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, 570-0425-07, Ultral-A6, 160301, 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 process 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.
SaleNo. 3
Swimara Ultra Series for Pentair CCP420 Pool Filter Cartridges 420 sq ft
- Fits CCP420 / Replaces PCC105: Pentair CCP420 (#160301) and Waterway Crystal Water 425. Replaces R173576, 178584, 817-0106/817-0106B, C-7471 and FC-1977. 4-Pack; 105 sq ft each; 420 sq ft total. 7 in. OD x 26 in. L; 3 in. open ends. Verify size.
- 5 oz/sq yd Heavy-Duty Trilobal Media: Trilobal fibers help capture particles as small as 10 microns, while the heavier media construction is designed for high-use pools, heavy pollen and elevated fine-debris conditions.
- PU End Caps, PP Core & Pleat Bands: Molded PU end caps support secure seating, the reinforced PP core supports the heavier pleat pack, and retaining bands help keep pleats stable and evenly spaced.
- Heavy-Use Cleaning: Depressurize and follow the manual. Rinse top to bottom; inspect more often during pollen or high use. For Pentair CCP420, clean when pressure rises about 10 PSI above the clean starting pressure; follow other system manuals.
- Certified to NSF/ANSI 50: Designed for owners seeking heavier 5 oz/sq yd filtration media for high-use residential pools and more demanding seasonal debris conditions.
No. 4
U.S. Pool Supply Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges, Type A or C, 4 Pk
- Pack of 4 Premium Quality Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges that are compatible with all above-ground pools and pumps that use type A or C filters, as well as type III filters. Filter cartridges replace Intex 59900E and 29000E filter cartridges
- The filters are made with premium quality polyethylene terephthalate fibers for advanced superior cleaning, as they provide crystal clear water filtration. Filters contain a durable hard plastic iner core that is collapse-resistant
- For use in pool pumps that range from 530 gallons per hour to 2,000 gallons per hour. For best performance, replace the filter every two weeks. Filters are washable easy to replace and clean filter cartridges with long service lives
- Filters are compatible with several brands of cartridge filter pumps. Intex models: 28603EG (603), 28637EG (637R), 28635EG (635T), 604/G, 636T/G, 638R/G. Bestway models: 58384(E), 58387, 58388E, 58389, 58390(E). Summer Waves models: RX1000, RX1500, RP800, RP1000, RP1500, RP2000, SFS1000, SFS1500, SFS2000, CP2000-C.
- Filter dimensions: 8" high x 4.25" diameter with a nearly 2" diameter center hole
No. 5
4PK Pool Filters Compatible Replacement for Pentair® Clean & Clear Plus 420
- Made in USA with 100% Reemay 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.
SaleNo. 6
INTEX 29003E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge: For INTEX Filter Pumps – Easy-To-Clean – Dacron Paper – Efficient Filtration – Three Pack
- ✔ CONVENIENT MAINTENANCE – A must have cartridge to the INTEX Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump, this filter cartridge is made with easy-to-clean Dacron paper for the ultimate filtration
- ✔ FILTER PUMP COMPATIBILITY – For best use and results, the filter cartridge A by INTEX is compatible for filter pump models in of the following: 28603EG, 28637EG and 28635EG
- ✔ ROUTINE USAGE – For maximum efficiency and results for your above ground pool, the recommendation is to replace cartridges every two weeks for a clean and happy pool
- ✔ HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY – It's all in the bubbles; patented HydroAeration Technology by INTEX when using our filtration systems improves overall water circulation, clarity, and freshness in thousands of above ground pools
- ✔ SAFETY, QUALITY and VALUE – Intex designs, builds, and tests all its products to the highest standards with safety the first order of business; our affordable and innovative products are built to last
SaleNo. 7
Grefilt 4-Pack C4030 Pool Filter Cartridges, 425 sq.ft
- COMPATIBLE WITH MAJOR MODELS: This filter is compatible with a range of brands and models for Hayward SwimClear C4030, C4025, C4020, Replaces Pleatco PA106, Hayward CX880XRE, Unicel C-7488, and more. Please note that this is a compatible replacement, and manufacturer names are used for reference
- SPECIFICATIONS: Length: 25 1/2"; Outside Diameter: 7"; Top & Bottom Opening: 3"; Filtration Area: 425 Sq.ft; Material: 5 oz Heavy-Duty Trilobal Filtration Fabric. Please verify your existing filter dimensions before purchase to ensure proper fit
- NSF/ANSI 50 CERTIFIED SAFETY: Tested and certified against NSF/ANSI 50 standards to ensure safe materials for pool and spa use. Provides clean, clear, and safe water without releasing harmful substances, ideal for family pools
- PRECISION 30-MICRON FILTRATION: Engineered with 30-micron precision filtration and an upgraded trilobal fiber structure with 40% more branches. The uniform fiber distribution increases particle capture efficiency while maintaining stable water flow without excessive pressure buildup. Helps reduce clogging and extends cleaning intervals
- EXTENDED LIFE: Built with thickened 5oz fabric, high-strength ABS end caps, and an integrated support core. Enhances structural stability under pressure and extends service life by up to 30% compared to standard cartridges
No. 8
Type A or C Replacement Filter Cartridge for Intex Above Ground Pools
- Pack of 6 type A or C 29000E/59900E filter cartridge, for use with INTEX above ground pools, compatible with 530,1000, 1500 GPH filter pump models: 603,604/G,637R,638R/G,635T,636T/G, C1000, C1500
- Also compatible with Summer Waves canisters: RX & SFX 1000, RX & SFX 1500, RP & SFS 700/800, RP & SFS 1000, RP & SFS 1500, RP & SFS 2000 (2013 & newer), CP2000-C; compares to SummerWaves Model P57100202 Type A/C
- Made with easy to clean dacron material; filter cartridge should be replaced every two weeks
- Dimension of each filter: 8*4.3*4.3(inch), 20.3*10.9*10.9(cm), Top and Bottom hole size: 2".
- Premium quality Volca Spares brand product
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Perfect Pool Filter Cartridge
Keeping your pool sparkling clean is important. A good filter cartridge is the heart of your pool cleaning system. This guide will help you pick the right one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a pool filter cartridge, several features really matter. These features affect how well your filter cleans and how long it lasts.
1. Filter Area (Square Footage)
- This tells you how much dirt the filter can hold before you need to clean it.
- Bigger pools need cartridges with a larger filter area.
- A larger area means less frequent cleaning.
2. Micron Rating
- Microns measure how tiny the particles the filter can catch are.
- Most standard cartridges catch particles down to about 10 to 20 microns.
- If you want crystal clear water, look for a lower micron rating.
3. End Cap Design
- The end caps hold the filter together at the top and bottom.
- Make sure the end caps match your filter housing exactly.
- If the caps do not fit well, water can bypass the filter media, making cleaning less effective.
Important Materials Matter
The material used to make the filter media is crucial for performance and durability.
Filter Media Material
- Most quality cartridges use spun polyester fabric. This material is strong and traps dirt well.
- Look for high-quality, heavy-duty polyester. Thin material wears out fast.
- Some premium filters include antimicrobial treatments. These treatments help stop the growth of mold and mildew inside the wet filter.
Core Structure
- The inner core gives the cartridge its shape and strength.
- A strong plastic or PVC core prevents the filter from collapsing under water pressure.
- A weak core can lead to early filter failure.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all cartridges clean the same way. Some design choices make a big difference.
Improving Quality
- Pleat Density: More pleats mean more surface area for filtering. Tightly packed, uniform pleats improve cleaning power.
- Material Weight: Heavier, thicker fabric holds more debris without tearing.
- Chemical Resistance: Good cartridges resist breakdown from pool chemicals like chlorine.
Reducing Quality
- Cheap Construction: Cartridges made with thin plastic and poorly glued seams break down quickly.
- Low-Density Fabric: Filters with widely spaced pleats let smaller debris pass through easily.
- Improper Sizing: Using a cartridge that is too small for your pool system forces the filter to work too hard. This reduces its lifespan significantly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your pool when making your selection.
High-Use Pools (Parties, Pets)
- If you have heavy bather loads or pets swimming often, you need a cartridge with a very large filter area. You want fewer cleanings during busy seasons.
- You might need a replacement cartridge on hand for quick swaps.
Low-Use Pools (Vacation Homes)
- For pools used only occasionally, a standard, mid-range cartridge works well. Focus on durability over massive capacity.
Maintenance Ease
- Check how easy the cartridge is to remove and clean. Some designs make hose cleaning much simpler than others.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pool Filter Cartridges
Q: How often should I clean my pool filter cartridge?
A: You should clean your cartridge when the pool pressure gauge reads 8–10 PSI above its normal clean starting pressure. This usually means cleaning every 4 to 6 weeks during heavy use.
Q: How long does a filter cartridge usually last?
A: A good quality cartridge typically lasts between two to five years. Proper cleaning helps extend this life.
Q: Can I use a generic cartridge instead of the brand name one?
A: Yes, if the dimensions (length, diameter) and the end cap style match exactly. Generic replacements often work just as well if they use quality material.
Q: What does “micron rating” really mean for my pool?
A: The micron rating tells you the smallest size of particle the filter can physically stop. Lower numbers mean cleaner water.
Q: Is it better to replace or clean my cartridge?
A: Always clean first. Only replace the cartridge when the material starts to tear, the pleats collapse, or it can no longer hold pressure.
Q: What is the biggest mistake people make when caring for cartridges?
A: The biggest mistake is waiting too long to clean it. Running the filter with high pressure damages the fabric fibers.
Q: Can I use a pressure washer to clean my cartridge?
A: No. High-pressure washing rips the delicate filter fibers. Use a garden hose with a strong spray nozzle instead.
Q: Do I need to soak my cartridge in a special cleaner?
A: Yes, you should soak it in a specialized filter cleaner (degreaser) at least twice a year. This removes oils and body lotions the water rinse misses.
Q: What happens if my cartridge has the wrong diameter?
A: If the diameter is wrong, it will either be too loose (water bypasses it) or too tight (you cannot get the filter housing cover back on).
Q: Does cartridge filtration remove microscopic viruses?
A: Cartridge filters remove most debris, pollen, and algae. However, viruses are much smaller than the typical micron rating and usually need chemical sanitizers like chlorine to be killed.