Filter Cartridges

(63 products)

When your filter pressure climbs or your water starts looking dull, it's time for a new cartridge. EZ Pools carries a wide selection of replacement pool and spa filter cartridges from Hayward, Pentair, Pleatco, Unicel, and more — including OEM elements and quality aftermarket alternatives. Whether you're replacing a single cartridge in a StarClear or swapping all four in a SwimClear, you'll find the right part here with fast shipping from our warehouses in New Jersey, Colorado, and Florida.

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Pool filter cartridges

How to Find the Right Replacement Filter Cartridge

The easiest way to find your replacement cartridge is by part number. Look for a label on the existing cartridge or in your filter's owner manual — it'll usually be a model number like CX1200RE, C-7471, or PAP200. Search that number directly to find an exact OEM or compatible replacement.

If the cartridge is too worn to read, you can also look up your filter model and cross-reference the replacement element from there. Hayward SwimClear filters use CX-series cartridges (CX481XRE, CX580XRE, CX1280XRE, etc.), while Hayward StarClear and StarClear Plus models use the CX1200RE and CX1750RE. Pentair Sta-Rite System 3 filters take their own inner and outer cartridge sets (like the 170145 and 170146 packages).

When shopping aftermarket, stick with reputable brands like Pleatco or Unicel — they manufacture to OEM specs and are widely used by pool service professionals.

Cartridge Maintenance: How to Get the Most Out of Your Filter Element

A properly maintained cartridge can last 2–3 years before needing replacement. The key is regular rinsing and keeping an eye on your pressure gauge. When pressure rises 8–10 PSI above your clean baseline, it's time to clean the cartridge — typically every 2–4 weeks during swim season.

To clean: remove the cartridge, rinse from top to bottom with a garden hose (never a pressure washer — it damages the pleats), and let it dry before reinstalling if possible. Once or twice a season, soak the cartridge in a dedicated filter cleaner solution overnight to break down oils, sunscreen, and mineral buildup that rinsing alone won't remove.

When you notice the pressure rising faster between cleanings, or the pleats start to look gray and flat even after cleaning, it's time to replace rather than clean. Trying to push a worn cartridge further usually results in poor water quality and added strain on your pump.

Unicel C-7470 Filter Cartridge, C7470

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which replacement filter cartridge I need?
The best way is to find the part number printed on your existing cartridge or in your filter's manual. You can also look up your filter model number and find the corresponding replacement cartridge element. EZ Pools carries OEM cartridges from Hayward and Pentair as well as compatible aftermarket options from Pleatco and Unicel.
How often should I replace my pool filter cartridge?
With regular cleaning, most pool filter cartridges last 2–3 seasons. Signs it's time to replace include: pressure rising faster than usual between cleanings, visible wear or tears on the pleats, or water clarity that doesn't improve after a fresh cartridge cleaning.
Are aftermarket cartridges like Pleatco as good as OEM?
Quality aftermarket brands like Pleatco and Unicel manufacture cartridges to OEM specifications and are widely used by pool service professionals. They are a reliable and cost-effective alternative to OEM cartridges from Hayward or Pentair.
How do I clean a pool filter cartridge?
Rinse the cartridge from top to bottom with a garden hose — never a pressure washer, which can damage the pleats. For a deeper clean, soak the cartridge in a filter cleaner solution overnight to remove oils and mineral buildup. Clean when your pressure gauge reads 8–10 PSI above your clean starting pressure.
Does EZ Pools carry cartridges for Hayward SwimClear filters?
Yes. EZ Pools carries the full line of Hayward SwimClear replacement cartridges including the CX481XRE, CX580XRE, CX1280XRE, and CX591XRE, as well as multi-pack options like the CX481XREPAK4 and CX580XREPAK4 for filters that use four cartridges.

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Replacement Pool Filter Cartridges — Shipped Fast from EZ Pools

EZ Pools stocks replacement filter cartridges for the most popular pool and spa filter models on the market. From Hayward StarClear and SwimClear elements to Pentair Sta-Rite System 3 cartridge sets and Pleatco aftermarket replacements, we carry options across every size and square footage rating.

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