Best Pool Filter Cartridges of 2025

Bryan Hicks Avatar
Bryan Hicks
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Pool filter cartridges are an essential component of any pool filtration system. These cartridges are designed to effectively remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the water, leaving it clean and clear. Made from high-quality materials, pool filter cartridges are durable and long-lasting, providing reliable filtration for extended periods of time. They are easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice among pool owners. Whether you have a small backyard pool or a large commercial pool, pool filter cartridges are an excellent investment for keeping your pool water clean and healthy.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

POOLPURE PCC105-PAK4 Pool Filter Cartridges Cover #TOP 1
POOLPURE PCC105-PAK4 Pool Filter Cartridges
ftb score rating icon 9.8
PoolPure PLF120A Pool Filter Cover #TOP 2
PoolPure PLF120A Pool Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Pool Filter Cartridges 4-Pack Cover #TOP 3
Pool Filter Cartridges 4-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Pool Filter Cartridges

#TOP 1

POOLPURE PCC105-PAK4 Pool Filter Cartridges

PLF105A
POOLPURE PCC105-PAK4 Pool Filter Cartridges Cover
POOLPURE PCC105-PAK4 Replaces Pentair CCP420, 178584, Ultral-A6, Unicel C-7471, 817-0106, R173576, Filbur FC-1977, 570-0425-07, Pentair Clean and Clear Plus 420, L x OD: 26"x7", 4X105 sq.ft. Cartridge

The POOLPURE PCC105-PAK4 Pool Filter Cartridges are compatible with Pentair CCP420, 160301, Waterway Crystal Water 425, 570-0425, SD-00163, AK-60431, Aladdin 20503, and Filbur FC-6470. This filter is NSF/ANSI 50 certified and has a powerful dirt-holding capacity. It is easy to clean and has a trilobal filtration fabric that can remove hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand, and other fine particles. Customers have reported that it works well and is a great fit and easy to install.

What We Like
Affordable pricing
High-quality materials
Easy installation
Effective performance
Fast shipping
What We Don't Like
Some reservations about quality
Inconsistent performance for some
#TOP 2

PoolPure PLF120A Pool Filter

PLF120A
White
1 PACK
PoolPure PLF120A Pool Filter Cover
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"

The PoolPure PLF120A Pool Filter is a compatible replacement for the Hayward Star Clear Plus C1200 and CX1200RE, Unicel C-8412, Clearwater II ProClean 125, Aladdin 22002, Filbur FC-1293, and AK-7005. It is NSF/ANSI 50 certified and has a powerful dirt-holding capacity thanks to its trilobal filtration fabric. It is easy to clean and maintain, and is a great value for the price.

What We Like
Cost-effective replacement
Sturdy construction
Excellent filtration performance
Easy to clean
Arrived early
What We Don't Like
Lightweight design
Frequent replacement suggested
#TOP 3

Pool Filter Cartridges 4-Pack

Pool Filter Cartridges 4-Pack Cover
Optimum Pool Technologies Pool Filter 4-Pack, Compatible Replacement for Jandy® CL460 R0554600, Unicel C-7468, Filbur FC-0810, & Pleatco PJAN115 Filter Cartridges

This Pool Filter Cartridges 4-Pack is made of high-quality filtration media with support bands around each cartridge element. Its dimensions are Length: 27", Outside Diameter: 7", Inside Diameter: 3". It replaces OEM# R0554600, A0558000, CL460, CL 460, CV460, CV 460, Unicel# C-7468, C-7468RA, Pleatco# PJAN115, PJAN115-M, PJAN115-PAK4, Filbur# FC-0810, FC-0810M Aladdin# 21501. This is an independent brand, not from the original manufacturers.

What We Like
Great value for price
Good fit for specific models
Comparable quality to expensive brands
Effective in keeping water clean
Long-lasting with proper care
What We Don't Like
Shorter lifespan than originals
#TOP 4

POOLPURE PLF175A Pool Filter

PLF175A
POOLPURE PLF175A Pool Filter Cover
POOLPURE PLF175A Pool Filter Replaces Hayward C1750, CX1750RE, PA175, Ultral-B4, Unicel C-8417, Filbur FC-1294, Sta-Rite PXC175, 817-0175P, L x OD: 28 3/16" x8 15/16", 175 sq.ft Cartridge

Enjoy safe and clear purified water with POOLPURE Pool Filter. Certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50, this filter efficiently removes hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand, and more with its innovated "Dirt-Locking" technology. With a length of 28 3/16", outside diameter of 8 15/16", and top & bottom opening of 4", POOLPURE PLF175A is compatible with many models including Hayward C1750, Unicel C-8417, and Sta-Rite Posi-Clear PXC175. The unique Trilobal Filtration Fabric Structure makes it easier to capture a large volume of contaminants, while the easy-to-clean filter ensures a long service life. POOLPURE also offers a 100% money-back guarantee and a product lifetime warranty, making it a risk-free shopping experience.

What We Like
Affordable price
Effective water filtration
Durable materials
Easy installation
Long-lasting performance
What We Don't Like
Durability uncertain long-term
#TOP 5

POOLPURE PLF90A Pool Filter

PLF90A
White
POOLPURE PLF90A Pool Filter Cover
POOLPURE PLF90A Pool Filter Replaces Hayward C900, CX900RE, Pleatco PA90, Ultral-B6, Unicel C-8409, Filbur FC-1292, Sta-Rite PXC95, 90 sq.ft, L x OD: 17 3/8" x 8 15/16" 1 Pack

The POOLPURE PLF90A Pool Filter is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and cost-effective filter. It is NSF/ANSI 50 certified and compatible with Hayward CX900RE, C900, C9002, PA90, Unicel C-8409, Clearwater II Pro Clean 100, and Sta-Rite Posi Clear PXC-95. It features a powerful filtration performance and a long service life thanks to its unique Trilobal Filtration Fabric Structure. Customers have praised its quality and ease of installation, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable pool filter.

What We Like
Effective pool cleaning
Easy to clean
Great price
High-quality construction
Excellent filtration performance
What We Don't Like
Occasional compatibility issues
#TOP 6

POOLPURE C-7468 Filter Cartridge 4 Pack

PLFC-7468
POOLPURE C-7468 Filter Cartridge 4 Pack Cover
POOLPURE C-7468 Filter Replaces Jandy CL 460, CV460, PJAN115, Ultral-A9, Unicel C-7468, Filbur FC-0810, Excel Filters XLS-705, FC-6410, Aladdin 21501, Baleen AK-60432, 4X115 sq.ft Cartridge 4 Pack

The POOLPURE C-7468 Filter Cartridge 4 Pack is a great choice for pool owners looking for a reliable and effective filter. This filter is NSF/ANSI 50 certified and is compatible with Jandy CL 460, Jandy CV460, Unicel C-7468, Filbur FC-0810, Darlly 70852, SD-00085, SD-01108. It features a powerful filtration performance and a long service life, and is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee.

What We Like
Easy installation
Effective filtration
Cost-effective replacement
Durable with regular cleaning
Good for heavy debris
What We Don't Like
Fit slightly loose
#TOP 7

Unicel C8412 Replacement Filter Cartridge

C-8412
White
9.2 x 9.2 x 23.8"
Unicel C8412 Replacement Filter Cartridge Cover
Unicel C8412 120 Sq. Ft. Swimming Pool & Spa Replacement Filter Cartridge for Hayward CX1200

Keep your pool water clean and clear with this high quality replacement filter cartridge. The cartridge has a pleat count of 172 and is compatible with the Hayward Star Clear C1200 filter, as well as replacing other models. The cartridge has top and bottom hole dimensions of 4 inches and a length of 23 5/16 inches, with an outside diameter of 8 15/16 inches.

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting
Cost-effective replacement
Easy installation
Crystal clear water
Efficient cleaning with hairnets
What We Don't Like
Cleaning may become challenging
#TOP 8

FROG @Ease SmartChlor Replacement Cartridges

01-14-3258
silver
1 Pack
FROG @Ease SmartChlor Replacement Cartridges Cover
FROG @Ease Replacement SmartChlor Cartridge - for use with Hot Tub FROG @Ease Floating System - Hot Tub Sanitizer System Supports Less Chlorine Use - 3 Pack

The FROG @Ease SmartChlor Replacement Cartridges are designed for use with the FROG @ease Floating Sanitizing System. It kills bacteria two ways with a low level of chlorine and FROG Sanitizing Minerals. The SmartChlor lasts up to four weeks and flips when empty, and the minerals last four months. It uses up to 75% less chlorine* and maintains a consistent low Free Chlorine level, making water Cleaner, Clearer, Softer and Easier to take care of. It is ideal for 600 gallon hot tubs.

What We Like
Easy to use
Good water clarity
Effective with minimal effort
Long-lasting components
What We Don't Like
Higher cost than alternatives
Short lifespan of components
#TOP 9

Unicel C8409 Replacement Filter Cartridge

C-8409
White
1 Pack
Unicel C8409 Replacement Filter Cartridge Cover
Unicel C-8409 90 Square Foot Media Replacement Pool Filter Cartridge with 174 Pleats, Compatible with Hayward Pool Products, Sta-Rite, and Waterway

Keep your pool or spa clean with the dependable and durable Unicel C8409 replacement filter cartridge. It replaces filters for Hayward, Sta Rite, Waterway, Pleatco and Filbur models. With 174 pleats, this cartridge has a high pleat count for maximum filtration. It is user-friendly and easy to clean and replace. The top and bottom cap dimensions are 4 inches with a molded gasket and the cartridge measures 9 x 9.5 x 18 inches.

What We Like
Well constructed
Perfect fit
Competitively priced
Fast delivery
Long-lasting performance
What We Don't Like
Not for lawn care
#TOP 10

Cryspool Pool Filter Compatible with Pentair CCP420

CP-07077
Cryspool Pool Filter Compatible with Pentair CCP420 Cover
Cryspool® 07077 Filter Compatible with Clean and Clear Plus 420, CCP420, PCC105-PAK4, R173576, C-7471, 178584, 817-0106, FC-6470, 4X105 Sq. Ft Pool Filter Cartridge, 4 Pack

The Cryspool Pool Filter is a high-quality pool filter that is compatible with various models of Pentair and Unicel pool filters. Its advanced trilobal fiber material ensures thorough water filtration and longer life span. Its Improved Trilobal Fabric Filter Structure makes cleaning easy and effective by penetrating impurities deep into filter pleats. It is recommended to clean the filter when the pressure gauge reaches the designated value to maximize its performance. With a 6-month return policy and professional technical support, this pool filter is designed to provide customers with a perfect experience.

What We Like
Excellent filter quality
Easy installation process
Cost-effective alternative
Perfect fit in filter housing
Improves pool water clarity
What We Don't Like
Minor fit issues with attachments
Poor performance for some users
Buying Guide Image

Find Your Fit: How to Buy the Right Pool Filter Cartridges

What You Should Consider When Choosing Pool Filter Cartridges

When it comes to maintaining the cleanliness of your pool, the filter cartridge plays a crucial role. The cartridge is responsible for removing dirt and debris from the water, keeping it clean and appealing. But choosing the right filter cartridge isn’t always easy. Here’s what you should consider when selecting the right filter cartridge for your pool.

Type of Filter

The most important factor to consider when selecting a filter cartridge is the type of filter you need. Pool filter cartridges come in two basic types: pleated and non-pleated. Pleated filters use a series of pleats to increase the surface area of the filter, helping it to trap more dirt and debris. Non-pleated filters are made of a single layer of fabric, which is more susceptible to clogging but also cheaper to replace.

Size of Filter

The size of filter you need will depend on the size of your pool. Generally speaking, the larger the pool, the larger the filter cartridge you’ll need. Cartridge filters come in a variety of sizes, from small, single-cartridge filters to large, multi-cartridge filters. Make sure to measure your filter housing to ensure you’re getting the right size filter.

Flow Rate

The flow rate of a filter is important because it determines how quickly the water is filtered. The higher the flow rate, the faster the water will be filtered. If the flow rate is too low, the filter won’t be able to keep up with the demand and the pool will become dirty. Make sure to check the flow rate of the filter cartridge you’re considering before making a purchase.

Durability

Durability is another important factor to consider when choosing a filter cartridge. Different brands offer different levels of durability, so make sure to do your research. Some brands offer cartridges that are designed to last up to a year, while others may only last a few months.

Price

Price is always a consideration when it comes to purchasing pool supplies, and filter cartridges are no exception. Generally speaking, pleated filters are more expensive than non-pleated filters, but they also last longer. Make sure to compare prices before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

When it comes to selecting the right filter cartridge for your pool, there are several factors to consider. Make sure to consider the type, size, flow rate, durability, and price of the filter before making a purchase. Doing your research beforehand will help ensure you get the right filter for your pool.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do pool filter cartridges last?

Pool filter cartridges typically last around 2 to 3 years, according to most manufacturers. However, it's important to follow the recommendations of the specific filter cartridge manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and water filtration.

2. How do I know what pool filter cartridge to buy?

To determine the right pool filter cartridge to buy, you should match the dimensions of the new cartridge with your existing one. Take out the old cartridge and measure it using a tape measure to ensure a proper fit for replacement.

3. How do I know if my pool cartridge is bad?

If you notice that your pool is not as clean as it used to be, such as changes in water color, smell, or appearance, it may be an indication that your pool cartridge needs to be replaced. It's important to address any issues with your filter to maintain clean and clear pool water.

4. Should I clean or replace pool filter cartridge?

While pool filter cartridges can be cleaned, it's important to note that each cleaning cycle can cause wear and tear on the cartridge's fibers, which can reduce its effectiveness. It is recommended to replace the cartridge when the pressure gauge consistently reads above 8 PSI or when the cleaning frequency increases.

5. What size pool cartridge do I need?

The size of the pool cartridge you need depends on the size of your pool. Generally, a pool with a capacity of 15,000 gallons can use a 150 to 200 square-foot cartridge filter. For pools with more than 25,000 gallons of water, a 400 square-foot filter is recommended.

6. What is the easiest pool filter to maintain?

Sand filters are often considered the easiest to maintain. They require backwashing when the pressure gauge reads 10 PSI above the normal operating level. With proper water chemistry, a sand filter media can last for 5 to 10 years, making it a convenient option for pool maintenance.

Editor's Notes

During our pool filter cartridge research, we found 24 pool filter cartridge products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 86,759 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pool filter cartridges list. We found that most customers choose pool filter cartridges with an average price of $98.36.

The pool filter cartridges are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pool filter cartridges, including POOLPURE, Optimum Pool Technologies, Unicel, FROG, Cryspool. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,797 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Bryan Hicks Avatar

Bryan Hicks is a professional gardener and a writer who lives in North Texas with his family and his dog. Bryan has spent more than half of his life surrounded by garden products. He has extensive experience in garden makeovers and maintenance and lawn care. His areas of expertise include outdoor decoration, gardening and garden design.