Maintaining a clean and inviting pool is essential for enjoying summer days. Pool filters play a crucial role in this process by removing dirt, debris, and algae, keeping the water clear and safe. Among various options, Hayward pool filters stand out for their reliability and efficiency. They cater to different pool sizes and types, making them popular in both residential and commercial settings.
Hayward offers a range of filters, including sand, cartridge, and D.E. (diatomaceous earth) options. Each type has its own set of advantages, such as ease of maintenance or superior filtration capabilities. When choosing a pool filter, it’s important to consider factors like filter type, flow rate, and compatibility with your pool system. These details can greatly impact the performance and longevity of your filter.
For those looking to invest in a Hayward pool filter, understanding these key features can make a difference in your decision. We examined several models to help identify which ones deliver the best results for different pool needs.
Table of Contents
Best Hayward Pool Filters
We have gathered a list of the best Hayward pool filters available. These filters are designed to keep your pool water clean and clear, ensuring a pleasant swimming experience. Whether you’re looking for a sand, cartridge, or D.E. filter, we’ve got options to suit your needs.
Hayward StarClear Plus Pool Filter
This pool filter is a solid choice for anyone looking to keep their pool clean and clear with minimal fuss.
Pros
- Robust design ensures long-lasting use.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Filters debris effectively, keeping water crystal clear.
Cons
- Initial setup may cause some minor leaks.
- Some users report a shorter lifespan compared to other brands.
- Limited customer support options.
When we first set up the Hayward StarClear Plus Pool Filter, we noticed how sturdy it felt. The durable construction means it can withstand rough weather. It has a single-locking knob which simplifies the assembly. This makes it a breeze to secure the filter head without the hassle of using clamps.
On our first day of using the filter, we were impressed by how quickly it cleared the pool. Debris was removed efficiently, and the water looked crystal clear in just hours. The large cartridge holds a significant amount of dirt, reducing the need for frequent changes. We appreciated the rotatable filter head, which offered easy access when we needed to check the cartridge or relieve air pressure.
While we enjoyed using the filter, there were some challenges. Initially, we faced a couple of leaks right after installation, but rerouting some of the connections helped fix that issue. Some feedback from other users pointed out that the filter might not last as long as expected. Nonetheless, with regular maintenance, we believe this filter is a reliable option to keep our pool in good shape.
Future Way Pool Filter Cartridges
These pool filter cartridges are a solid choice if you’re looking to keep your Hayward filter running smoothly without spending a lot.
Pros
- Perfect fit for Hayward SwimClear models.
- Made with durable materials for long-lasting use.
- Easy to clean, saving water and effort.
Cons
- Some users mention they are slightly smaller than original Hayward filters.
- A few look for better filtration performance.
- Quality might not match the premium brand filters.
We have been using the Future Way C4030 pool filter cartridges and found them to be a great alternative to the original Hayward filters. They fit right into our Hayward SwimClear system, and installation was quick and hassle-free. Cleaning them is straightforward; a pressure washer works well to maintain them, which also saves water compared to standard cleaning methods.
In terms of performance, these filters do an adequate job of keeping the pool clean. While they may not match the original Hayward quality in every aspect, they still do the trick for regular pool maintenance. Their construction feels sturdy, and we’ve had no issues with leaks or compatibility, which is always a plus.
We appreciate the cost-effectiveness of this 4-pack; it offers good value compared to buying just one filter from local stores. Overall, if you’re working with a Hayward pool filter, we believe the Future Way cartridges are worth considering for their convenience and reliability.
Hayward SwimClear Cartridge Filter
We recommend this filter for its efficiency and ease of use, especially for those looking to keep their pool water sparkling clean.
Pros
- Exceptional filtration for better water clarity.
- Saves time with cleanable cartridge elements.
- Durable materials ensure long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Some users report issues with leaks.
- Initial setup may require patience.
- A bit heavier compared to older models.
After setting up the Hayward SwimClear 425 Sq. Ft. Filter, we noticed how efficient it is in filtering our water. The cartridges are easy to clean, which means we can skip the backwashing process. This feature makes maintenance a breeze, especially when compared to our old sand filter.
The heavy-duty construction of this filter feels robust and well-made. The tamper-proof clamp is a nice touch, allowing us quick access to the internal components without a hassle. It gave us confidence in engaging with the filter during maintenance.
While our experience has been positive, we’ve heard some users mention challenges with leaks. We made sure to double-check all connections to prevent this issue. Overall, we found the SwimClear to be a great investment for our pool. If you’re looking for a reliable filter that keeps your pool water clear, this could be the right choice.
POOLPURE PLF120A Pool Filter
We recommend the POOLPURE PLF120A Pool Filter for its affordable price and effective performance.
Pros
- Good filtration efficiency for clean pool water.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Compatible with various Hayward models.
Cons
- Some users mention issues with the bands.
- Durability may be a concern after multiple uses.
- Performance can vary based on pool usage.
Using the POOLPURE PLF120A has been a positive experience for us. The installation was straightforward, and it fit perfectly in our pool’s filter system. We noticed that it does a great job of keeping the pool water clear and clean. The filter captures a variety of debris, from leaves to fine dirt, which is exactly what we need for a well-maintained pool.
Cleaning the filter is also quite simple. After a couple of weeks of use, we rinsed it off, and it looked almost new again. The trilobal fabric makes a difference here, allowing it to hold dirt well while being easy to wash out. It’s nice that we don’t have to worry about our filter getting clogged easily, even during peak swimming season.
While there are many upsides, a few users reported minor issues, particularly with the bands that hold the filter together. Despite that, at this price point, the benefits overshadow the downsides. Overall, we believe the POOLPURE PLF120A makes a solid choice for anyone looking to replace their Hayward filter.
Hayward ProSeries 18 Inch Sand Filter
We recommend this filter for its reliability and efficiency in keeping our pools clean and sparkling.
Pros
- Durable, weather-resistant materials ensure it lasts.
- Self-cleaning design makes maintenance easier.
- Strong flow with low pressure drop for better performance.
Cons
- A bit heavy, which can make installation tricky.
- May require additional parts for specific setups.
- Initial setup takes time to get just right.
Using the Hayward ProSeries 18-Inch Sand Filter has been a great experience for us. Its self-cleaning lateral system really does a fantastic job at balancing backwashing, and we noticed clearer water in our pool right away. The installation was straightforward, but we needed a second set of hands due to its weight.
The 7-position VariFlo valve is easy to adjust, which we appreciated when switching between functions. It allows us to optimize flow and effectively manage pressure. We also found that the corrosion-proof materials hold up well to the elements, so we expect this filter to last for many seasons.
Occasionally, we did have to take extra time to fine-tune settings, especially when making adjustments during heavy use. It would be good to double-check compatibility with our specific setup since some pools might need additional parts.
Overall, this sand filter has proven to be a solid investment for our pool’s cleanliness and ease of use. For anyone looking to switch from a cartridge filter, this is a smart choice.
Hayward StarClear Filter
This filter is a solid choice for keeping our pool water crystal clear with ease.
Pros
- High cleaning capacity for various pool types.
- Durable and corrosion-resistant design.
- Easy to clean with a well-designed water collector.
Cons
- Cleaning may be needed weekly.
- Limited inlet options might require adjustments.
- Some assembly imperfections noted by users.
Recently, we switched to the Hayward StarClear 50 Sq. Ft. Cartridge Pool Filter, and it has really impressed us. It’s designed to work with all kinds of pools and hot tubs, making it incredibly versatile. The filter’s high capacity did wonders for our water clarity from the first use.
Installing the unit was straightforward, and its sturdy build gives us confidence that it will hold up well. We appreciate the elevated filtered water collector that helps prevent debris from getting back into the pool when it’s time to clean. This feature makes maintenance much less messy.
While it works great, we found that we need to clean the cartridge about once a week to keep it functioning at its best. The inlet placement could also be a bit tricky since it only has one option, which might require some plumbing adjustments depending on our setup. Despite these minor issues, the overall performance has made a noticeable difference in our pool’s cleanliness.
Hayward ProSeries Sand Filter
This filter delivers great performance for maintaining clear pool water without much hassle.
Pros
- Easy to install and operate
- Provides excellent filtration and water flow
- Durable, corrosion-proof materials
Cons
- May be larger than some spaces can accommodate
- Initial setup may require more sand than expected
- Some users report occasional noise during operation
We recently upgraded to the Hayward ProSeries 24-Inch Sand Filter, and it’s been a solid choice for our in-ground pool. Setting it up was straightforward, which is a huge plus for anyone looking to avoid complicated instructions. The filter’s design ensures even water flow, which really makes a difference in keeping our pool crystal clear.
Operating this filter has been a breeze. The six-position control valve is easy to use, letting us switch between different functions without any guesswork. We’ve had no major issues with maintenance so far, and the self-cleaning lateral system minimizes our workload.
That said, it is a bit on the larger side, so consider your available space before purchasing. We had to adjust our setup slightly, but the benefits outweigh that minor inconvenience. Overall, we are pleased with our choice and would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable pool filter.
Hayward ProGrid DE Pool Filter
This filter offers solid performance for those looking to maintain clean and clear pool water.
Pros
- Efficient water filtration and superior clarity
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Easy access to internal parts for maintenance
Cons
- Replacement parts can be tricky to find
- Initial setup may require some adjustments
- Higher maintenance than a sand filter
We recently replaced our old pool filter with the Hayward ProGrid 36 Sq. Ft. Diatomaceous Earth Filter. The first thing we noticed was how efficiently it filtered our pool water. The up-flow filtration and top-down backwashing system really work well, leaving our pool sparkling clean.
Durability is another strong point. Made from glass-reinforced copolymer, it seems built to last. After a long summer of use, we haven’t seen any signs of corrosion, which is important in a pool environment. The heavy-duty clamp makes it easy to access the internal parts without fussing with plumbing connections.
While we enjoyed the performance, there were some challenges. Finding replacement parts took a bit of research. Also, we found that setting it up required some adjustments, especially when making connections. Compared to our previous sand filter, this one needed a bit more attention but offers clear water in return.
Future Way C1200 Pool Filter Cartridge
This filter is a solid choice for anyone looking to replace their Hayward filter cartridge without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Great compatibility with various models.
- Strong filtration capability.
- Durable construction for long-lasting use.
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning to maintain performance.
- May not be as readily available in some local stores.
- Slightly larger size could be a fit issue for some.
After trying out the Future Way C1200 Pool Filter Cartridge, we were pleasantly surprised. It fit perfectly into our Hayward Star Clear Plus C1200 and didn’t leak at all. It’s clear that this cartridge was designed with compatibility in mind, which is a big plus for ease of use.
The filtration power is impressive. The heavy-duty paper material catches all the debris we’d expect, keeping our pool water clean and inviting. It’s reassuring to know that this cartridge can handle the high-pressure flow without any issues.
On the durability front, we found it held up well against repeated cleaning. The spunbond polyester gives it strength, which is essential for pool maintenance. While we recommend cleaning the cartridge regularly to keep it in top shape, we appreciate that this can help save on water too.
In the end, if you’re in the market for a reliable and cost-effective replacement for your Hayward filter, this cartridge could be a great addition to your pool upkeep routine.
Buying Guide
When we choose a Hayward pool filter, it’s important to look for key features that fit our needs.
Filter Type
We should consider the different filter types: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE). Each type has its pros and cons.
- Sand Filters: Easy to maintain and cost-effective.
- Cartridge Filters: Provide better filtration and are environmentally friendly.
- DE Filters: Offer the finest filtration but require more maintenance.
Size and Flow Rate
Next, we need to think about the size of our pool. The filter should match the pool’s flow rate. We can find the right size by checking the pool volume and desired turnover time.
Maintenance Requirements
We should look at maintenance needs too. Some filters require regular cleaning or media replacement. Choosing a filter that is easy to maintain can save us time and effort.
Warranty and Support
A good warranty and customer support can be valuable. It’s wise for us to consider filters that come with a solid warranty and access to customer service.
Efficiency
Lastly, energy efficiency is important. We can save on electricity costs with filters that operate efficiently. Checking the system’s energy rating can help us make a smart choice.
By focusing on these features, we can choose the best Hayward pool filter for our pools.