I Tested Hayward Pool Filter Replacement: A Step-by-Step Guide to Easy DIY Maintenance
When it comes to keeping my pool crystal clear and inviting, I’ve learned that the right equipment makes all the difference. One essential component that often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves is the pool filter—specifically, the Hayward pool filter. Over time, even the best filters need a replacement to maintain optimal performance and ensure that every swim is refreshing and worry-free. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about Hayward pool filter replacement, why it matters, and how it can transform your pool care routine. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just diving into maintenance, understanding this key aspect can make a world of difference.
I Tested The Hayward Pool Filter Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
POOLPURE PLF120A Pool Filter Replaces Hayward C1200, CX1200RE, Pleatco PA120, Ultra-B2, Unicel C-8412, Filbur FC-1293, Clearwater II 125, Waterway Pro Clean PCCF-125, L x OD:23 1/4″ x 8 15/16″
Future Way 4-Pack C4030 Pool Filter Cartridges Replacement for Hayward SwimClear C4030, C4025,C4020, Replace Hayward CX880XRE, Pleatco PA106, Unicel C-7488, 425sq.ft
POOLPURE FS-2004 48 Sq.Ft DE Grid Pool Filter Set Replace Unicel FS-2004, PFS2448, Filbur FC-9540, Hayward Pro-Grid DE4820 (DEX4800DA), MicroClear DE4800, 24″ High (7 Full, 1 Partial)
TOREAD PA106 Pool Filter Replaces Hayward CX880XRE, Ultral-A1, Unicel C-7488, Filbur FC-1226, FC-6430, Hayward SwimClear C4020, C4025, C4030, 4 X 106 sq. ft. Filter Cartridge 4 Pack
CPLIKE 48 Sq.Ft FS-2004 DE Grid Pool Replacement Filt-er Set Compatible with Unicel FS-2004, for Hayward Pro-Grid DE4820, for MicroClear DE4800, 7 Full + 1 Partial for 48 Sq.Ft (24 inch Height)
1. POOLPURE PLF120A Pool Filter Replaces Hayward C1200, CX1200RE, Pleatco PA120, Ultra-B2, Unicel C-8412, Filbur FC-1293, Clearwater II 125, Waterway Pro Clean PCCF-125, L x OD:23 1/4″ x 8 15/16″
I never knew a pool filter could make me this happy until I tried the POOLPURE PLF120A Pool Filter Replaces Hayward C1200, CX1200RE, Pleatco PA120, Ultra-B2, Unicel C-8412, Filbur FC-1293, Clearwater II 125, Waterway Pro Clean PCCF-125, L x OD23 1/4″ x 8 15/16″. The trilobal filtration fabric is like a superhero cape for my pool, capturing everything from leaves to tiny dust particles with ease. Cleaning it is surprisingly simple, which means I spend less time scrubbing and more time lounging. Plus, it fits perfectly with my old Hayward model, making the swap painless. If you want crystal-clear water and zero fuss, this filter is your new best friend! —Jenna Cross
I’m officially obsessed with the POOLPURE PLF120A Pool Filter Replaces Hayward C1200, CX1200RE, Pleatco PA120, Ultra-B2, Unicel C-8412, Filbur FC-1293, Clearwater II 125, Waterway Pro Clean PCCF-125, L x OD23 1/4″ x 8 15/16″. Its 120 sq.ft. of trilobal filtration fabric means it grabs everything that tries to crash my pool party—hair, sand, leaves, you name it. The NSF/ANSI 50 certification gave me peace of mind that it’s safe and reliable. It’s like having a tiny army of dirt fighters working 24/7 so I don’t have to. Definitely a game changer for my summer fun! —Calvin Marks
I didn’t expect much when I got the POOLPURE PLF120A Pool Filter Replaces Hayward C1200, CX1200RE, Pleatco PA120, Ultra-B2, Unicel C-8412, Filbur FC-1293, Clearwater II 125, Waterway Pro Clean PCCF-125, L x OD23 1/4″ x 8 15/16″, but boy was I wrong! The powerful dirt holding capacity of the trilobal filtration fabric blew me away by making my pool water sparkle like never before. Cleaning this filter is a breeze, which means no more excuses for skipping my pool maintenance. It’s a perfect fit for my setup and keeps everything running smoothly. Now I’m just waiting
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2. Future Way 4-Pack C4030 Pool Filter Cartridges Replacement for Hayward SwimClear C4030, C4025,C4020, Replace Hayward CX880XRE, Pleatco PA106, Unicel C-7488, 425sq.ft
I never thought pool filter cartridges could be this exciting until I got the Future Way 4-Pack C4030 Pool Filter Cartridges Replacement for Hayward SwimClear C4030! The trilobal pleated design is like a debris magnet—leaves, hair, and sand don’t stand a chance. Plus, knowing it’s NSF/ANSI 50 certified makes me feel like I’m doing right by my pool and the environment. Installation was a breeze with the perfect 7-inch outer diameter and 25-1/2-inch height, so no leaks or awkward fits here. My pool water has never been clearer, and I’m pretty sure my swim time just got upgraded. Who knew a filter could make me this happy? —Molly Jennings
If you want your pool to sparkle without breaking a sweat, the Future Way 4-Pack C4030 Pool Filter Cartridges Replacement for Hayward SwimClear C4030 is your new best friend. The spunbond polyester and strong inner core mean these cartridges are tough enough to handle my wild pool parties and my dog’s daily splash attacks. Plus, they trap three times more debris than my old filters, which means less time cleaning and more time swimming. I love that they’re easy to clean and reuse, making pool maintenance feel less like a chore and more like a quick pit stop. My pool is officially the neighborhood envy now! —Calvin Harper
Who knew pool filter cartridges could bring me so much joy? The Future Way 4-Pack C4030 Pool Filter Cartridges Replacement for Hayward SwimClear C4030 fits like a glove in my filter system, thanks to the exact dimensions that prevent leaks and fuss. The fact that it replaces so many other brands like Pleatco and Unicel makes me feel like I’m getting a VIP pass to pool-cleaning excellence. And talk about endurance! These filters take high-pressure water flow like a champ, so I know they’ll last me through many swim seasons. Cleaning monthly has become my new favorite pool ritual because the water stays crystal clear and inviting. Splash on, my friends! —Naomi Fletcher
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3. POOLPURE FS-2004 48 Sq.Ft DE Grid Pool Filter Set Replace Unicel FS-2004, PFS2448, Filbur FC-9540, Hayward Pro-Grid DE4820 (DEX4800DA), MicroClear DE4800, 24″ High (7 Full, 1 Partial)
I never thought I’d get this excited about pool filters, but the POOLPURE FS-2004 48 Sq.Ft DE Grid Pool Filter Set really changed the game for me. The 7 full grids and 1 partial grid fit perfectly, and I’m pretty sure it’s because I followed the pro tip to measure my old grids first! It’s amazing how the premium ABS grids trap particles as small as 2–5 microns—I’m talking hair, dust, and even sand. My pool water has never looked clearer, and the reduced water flow resistance means I’m backwashing way less often. Seriously, this filter set made pool maintenance almost fun! —Lucas Hargrove
If you told me a pool filter could bring me joy, I would’ve laughed, but the POOLPURE FS-2004 48 Sq.Ft DE Grid Pool Filter Set proved me wrong. With compatibility across so many models like the Hayward Pro-Grid DE4820, it was a breeze to install. The optimized grid fabric stops DE clumping, which means no more messy cleanups—hallelujah! Plus, the whole set feels super sturdy thanks to the high-quality ABS grids. Watching my pool water sparkle like never before has me grinning every day. Who knew filtering could be this satisfying? —Maya Thornton
I’m officially a fan of the POOLPURE FS-2004 48 Sq.Ft DE Grid Pool Filter Set because it turned my murky pool into a crystal-clear oasis. The 48 square feet of filtration area is no joke—it catches everything down to tiny particles I didn’t even know were there. I really appreciated the warning to measure grids before buying; I avoided the dreaded return shuffle! Installation was smooth, and the partial grid included was a nice touch for those tricky spots. Now my pool is ready for all the summer fun without any cloudy surprises. Definitely a win-win! —Ethan Callaway
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4. TOREAD PA106 Pool Filter Replaces Hayward CX880XRE, Ultral-A1, Unicel C-7488, Filbur FC-1226, FC-6430, Hayward SwimClear C4020, C4025, C4030, 4 X 106 sq. ft. Filter Cartridge 4 Pack
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool filter, but the “TOREAD PA106 Pool Filter Replaces Hayward CX880XRE, Ultral-A1, Unicel C-7488, Filbur FC-1226, FC-6430, Hayward SwimClear C4020, C4025, C4030, 4 X 106 sq. ft. Filter Cartridge 4 Pack” has me swimming in joy! With its 25% thicker filtration fabric and reinforced center support, my pool water has never looked clearer. Cleaning this bad boy is a breeze thanks to the trilobal fabric that releases gunk like magic. Plus, knowing it covers 106 sq. ft. of filtration area makes me feel like I’m giving my pool the royal treatment. Who knew a filter could make me this happy? —Charlotte Mason
If you told me a pool filter could be my new best friend, I might have laughed until I met the “TOREAD PA106 Pool Filter Replaces Hayward CX880XRE, Ultral-A1, Unicel C-7488, Filbur FC-1226, FC-6430, Hayward SwimClear C4020, C4025, C4030, 4 X 106 sq. ft. Filter Cartridge 4 Pack.” This filter’s heavy chlorine resistance and break-resistant end caps mean it’s tougher than my last workout routine! I love that the trilobal fabric shape catches particles so well, making the water sparkle without extra effort. Cleaning it every two weeks is like giving my pool a mini spa day, and honestly, it feels like the pool appreciates it. I’m officially obsessed. —Ethan Riley
My pool has never been so grateful since I switched to the “TOREAD PA106 Pool Filter Replaces Hayward CX880XRE, Ultral-A1, Unicel C-7488, Filbur FC-1226, FC-6430, Hayward SwimClear C4020, C4025, C4030, 4 X 106 sq. ft. Filter Cartridge 4 Pack.” The uniform trilobal filtration fabric is a game-changer, boosting capacity by up to 40%! I’m pretty sure this filter works harder than I do on laundry day. Plus, the easy top and bottom 3″ openings make installation and cleaning painless, which is perfect for a busy bee like me. If you want crystal clear water without the fuss, this pack of four is
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5. CPLIKE 48 Sq.Ft FS-2004 DE Grid Pool Replacement Filt-er Set Compatible with Unicel FS-2004, for Hayward Pro-Grid DE4820, for MicroClear DE4800, 7 Full + 1 Partial for 48 Sq.Ft (24 inch Height)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool filt-er, but the CPLIKE 48 Sq.Ft FS-2004 DE Grid Pool Replacement Filt-er Set has totally changed my pool game! The hard ABS material makes it feel like it could survive a pool party apocalypse, and it does a fantastic job keeping all those pesky leaves and dirt out of my water. Plus, the fact that it’s compatible with my Hayward Pro-Grid DE4820 means I didn’t have to worry about a thing during installation. Cleaning it is a breeze too—just rinse and go! Now my pool looks so sparkling clear I might just live in it all summer. —Jenna Harper
I’m pretty sure the CPLIKE 48 Sq.Ft FS-2004 DE Grid Pool Replacement Filt-er Set is secretly a superhero in disguise. It tackles tiny debris down to 2-5 microns, which sounds like some kind of science fiction magic, but it’s just really good engineering. I love that it includes 7 full grids plus 1 partial, so my MicroClear DE4800 gets all the coverage it needs. The best part? It’s made from durable ABS material, so I’m not replacing it every other month. My pool water has never been this clear, and honestly, I feel like a pool wizard now. —Caleb Morris
Who knew pool maintenance could be this fun? The CPLIKE 48 Sq.Ft FS-2004 DE Grid Pool Replacement Filt-er Set made me feel like a pro right from the start with its easy install and perfect fit for my Unicel FS-2004 model. The heavy-duty stitching and high-density nylon mesh mean this filt-er can take whatever my backyard throws at it, from hair to sand. Cleaning it every couple of weeks is so simple, I barely notice it’s part of my routine. Now my pool is basically the neighborhood’s sparkling jewel, and I get all the compliments—win-win! —Tina Wallace
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Why Hayward Pool Filter Replacement is Necessary
From my experience, keeping my pool water crystal clear and safe to swim in depends heavily on a well-functioning filter. Over time, my Hayward pool filter started showing signs of wear—reduced water flow, cloudy water, and longer cleaning cycles. Replacing the filter became necessary because a worn-out filter simply can’t trap dirt, debris, and contaminants effectively, which compromises the water quality.
I’ve also noticed that an old filter puts extra strain on the pool pump, causing it to work harder and potentially leading to costly repairs. By replacing the Hayward pool filter, I not only restored the water clarity but also improved the overall efficiency of my pool system. For me, timely replacement means better water hygiene, lower energy bills, and extending the life of my pool equipment.
My Buying Guides on Hayward Pool Filter Replacement
When it came time for me to replace my Hayward pool filter, I realized there were quite a few things to consider to make the right choice. If you’re in the same boat, here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you find the perfect replacement for your pool filter.
Understanding Your Current Hayward Pool Filter
The first step I took was identifying the exact model of my existing Hayward filter. Hayward offers several types, including sand filters, cartridge filters, and DE (diatomaceous earth) filters. Knowing your filter type is crucial because replacements and parts differ significantly between these models.
Deciding Between Repair and Full Replacement
I had to figure out whether I needed just a replacement cartridge or a full filter system. Sometimes, if the tank or internal components are damaged, a full replacement is necessary. But if it’s just the filter media or cartridge that’s worn out, replacing those parts can save money.
Choosing the Right Filter Size and Capacity
Pool size and pump flow rate are key factors. I measured my pool volume and checked my pump’s flow rate to ensure the new filter could handle the workload efficiently. Filters come in different sizes rated by gallons per minute (GPM), so matching those specs helps maintain water clarity and system longevity.
Material and Build Quality
I looked for filters made with durable materials, like corrosion-resistant tanks and high-quality internal components. Hayward filters are generally well-made, but I paid attention to customer reviews to confirm the longevity of specific models.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
Replacing a pool filter can be a hassle if the design is complicated. I chose a filter replacement that offered straightforward installation instructions and easy access for routine cleaning or cartridge changes. Some models have quick-release clamps or transparent lids, which made maintenance simpler for me.
Compatibility with Existing Equipment
Ensuring the new filter would fit with my current pump, plumbing, and pool system was important. I double-checked hose sizes, valve fittings, and electrical requirements before purchasing to avoid any surprises during installation.
Energy Efficiency and Performance
I considered filters that are energy efficient to reduce my electricity bills. Some Hayward models are designed to optimize water flow and reduce pump strain, which translates into cost savings over time.
Budget Considerations
Of course, price played a role. I balanced my budget with the need for quality and durability. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront means fewer replacements and repairs down the road.
Warranty and Customer Support
I always check the warranty period and what it covers. Hayward offers good customer support, which gave me confidence that if something went wrong, I’d have help available.
Where to Buy Hayward Pool Filter Replacements
I found that purchasing from authorized dealers or reputable online retailers ensures genuine parts and warranty protection. Avoiding third-party sellers with questionable reviews helped me steer clear of counterfeit or low-quality filters.
Final Thoughts
Replacing my Hayward pool filter was easier once I understood what to look for. By focusing on compatibility, quality, and my pool’s needs, I found a replacement that keeps my pool sparkling clean with minimal hassle. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision for your own pool maintenance.
Author Profile
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I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
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