Cartridge Filters

Shop Pool Cartridge Filters for Effortless Filtration

Pool cartridge filters are the most widely used filtration system for residential pools, and for good reason. Instead of backwashing, a cartridge pool filter traps dirt, debris, algae, and fine particles in pleated polyester cartridges that you simply remove and rinse clean with a garden hose. No water waste, no complicated valve sequences, and no DE powder.

Swimming pool cartridge filters filter down to 10–15 microns, delivering sharper water clarity than sand filters at 20–40 microns. For most residential in-ground pools, cartridge filtration offers the best balance of performance and low-effort maintenance.

At Fresh Pool Supply, we stock trusted Hayward cartridge filters, Pentair cartridge filters, and more, ranging from 50 to 525 sq.ft., covering above-ground pools through large in-ground installations. Free shipping on all orders over $49.99, nationwide.

Hayward Cartridge Filters: StarClear and SwimClear Series

The Hayward SwimClear cartridge filter range covers the full residential spectrum, from compact single-cartridge units to high-capacity quad-element systems:

The StarClear (W3C500) is a compact single-cartridge Hayward cartridge filter for smaller pools and above-ground applications. The Hayward SwimClear cartridge filter series steps up to a 4-cartridge quad-element design, featuring a heavy-duty 150 GPM residential flow rate across all three SwimClear models, with filtration area scaling from 325 sq.ft. up to 525 sq.ft. for high-bather-load installations. You’ll also find quality Hayward replacement filter parts at Fresh Pool Supply.

Premium Pentair Cartridge Filters: Clean and Clear Series

The Pentair cartridge filter range brings mid-to-large residential options to the lineup:

• Clean & Clear 200 (160318): Single-cartridge, 200 sq.ft. Pentair cartridge filter for mid-size residential pools in the 10,000–20,000 gallon range. A practical step up in capacity for smaller pools.

• Clean & Clear Plus 420 (160301): Quad-element 420 sq.ft. Pentair cartridge filter for larger in-ground pools. Delivers high filtration area with the low-maintenance convenience of a 4-cartridge design. Both models feature standard universal plumbing connections and are fully compatible with Hayward, Pentair, and most other pump brands.

What Size Cartridge Filter Do You Need?

Filtration area is the primary sizing variable for any pool cartridge filter. Use this guide:

One rule applies across every size: oversize where possible. A larger cartridge pool filter means less frequent cleaning, longer cartridge life, and lower operating pressure, all of which reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Pool Cartridge Filter vs. Sand Filter: Which Is Best?

Buyers comparing filter types consistently find swimming pool cartridge filters win on maintenance simplicity and water clarity:

For the pool cartridge filter vs. sand filter decision, the cartridge wins for water clarity, water conservation, and ease of maintenance. Sand filters have a lower upfront cost but require regular backwashing that wastes hundreds of gallons per cycle. DE filters offer the finest filtration but require DE powder recharging after every backwash, adding a meaningful maintenance burden for most residential pool owners.

Find Cartridge Replacement and Expert Support at Fresh Pool Supply

When your cartridge reaches the end of its service life—normally 1–3 seasons depending on bather load and chemical balance—pool filter cartridge replacement is straightforward. Browse our Filter Parts category for replacement cartridges and Filter Aid for essential maintenance chemicals. Part numbers are stamped directly on the cartridge end caps for easy reordering.

Fresh Pool Supply's Henderson, NV store offers free in-store repair services, free computerized water analysis, and expert guidance on filter sizing, pool filter cartridge replacement schedules, and system upgrades. Bring your existing cartridge part number or filter model number to our storefront for the fastest service.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a pool cartridge filter, and how does it work?

A pool cartridge filter uses a pleated polyester cartridge to trap dirt, debris, algae, and fine particles as water passes through it. Unlike sand or DE filters, there is no backwashing; the cartridge is simply removed and rinsed with a garden hose. Swimming pool cartridge filters capture particles down to 10–15 microns, delivering excellent water clarity with zero backwash water waste.

2. What size pool cartridge filter do I need?

Size by pool volume: 50 sq. ft. for up to 10,000 gallons; 200 sq. ft. for 10,000–20,000 gallons; 325 sq. ft. for 20,000–30,000 gallons; 425 sq. ft. for 30,000–40,000 gallons; and 525 sq. ft. for 40,000+ gallons. Always size up where possible; a larger cartridge pool filter extends element life and minimizes cleaning intervals.

3. How often does a pool cartridge filter need to be cleaned?

Large multi-cartridge (quad-element) filters typically only need cleaning every 3–6 months. Smaller single-cartridge units may require rinsing every 2–4 weeks. A pressure rise of 8–10 PSI above your clean starting pressure is the primary signal that a cleaning is due. In Nevada's dusty conditions, more frequent monitoring is recommended during the windy spring and late-summer monsoon seasons.

4. What is the difference between the Hayward StarClear and SwimClear filters?

The StarClear is a compact single-cartridge filter designed for smaller pools up to 10,000 gallons. The Hayward SwimClear filter uses 4 cartridges in a heavy-duty quad-element design, delivering 325–525 sq. ft. of massive filtration area for larger in-ground pools. The SwimClear's multi-cartridge design allows for a high flow rate with significantly lower operating pressure and less frequent cleaning cycles.

5. Are Pentair Clean & Clear filters compatible with Hayward pump systems?

Yes. Filter compatibility depends on matching plumbing size and pump flow rates, not matching brands. Pentair cartridge filters use universal plumbing connections that align perfectly with Hayward, Pentair, or any other primary pump brand.

6. How do I know when to replace my pool filter cartridge?

Replace your cartridge elements when your filter pressure doesn't drop back to baseline after a thorough cleaning, if the fabric pleats are visibly torn, if the plastic end caps crack, or if the fabric shows heavy, embedded calcium scaling that regular washing can't remove. Most cartridges last between 1–3 seasons.