Best Pool Filter Cartridges for Above Ground of 2026

Bryan Hicks Avatar
Bryan Hicks
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2026

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Pool filter cartridges for above ground pools are essential for maintaining clean and clear water. These cartridges are designed to trap dirt, debris, and other contaminants that can accumulate in pool water over time. They are made of high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity, making them a cost-effective solution for pool maintenance. With a variety of sizes and styles available, pool owners can find the perfect filter cartridge to fit their specific pool needs. With regular cleaning and replacement, these cartridges can keep pool water sparkling clean and inviting all season long.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Intex Type A Pool Filter Cartridge, Twin Pack Cover #TOP 1
Intex Type A Pool Filter Cartridge, Twin Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Bestway SaluSpa Filter Cartridge (VI) Replacement 2-Pack Cover #TOP 2
Bestway SaluSpa Filter Cartridge (VI) Replacement 2-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
PoolPure PLF120A Pool Filter Cover #TOP 3
PoolPure PLF120A Pool Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Pool Filter Cartridges for Above Ground

#TOP 1

Intex Type A Pool Filter Cartridge, Twin Pack

29002E
White
2 Pack
Intex Type A Pool Filter Cartridge, Twin Pack Cover
Intex 29002E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge Filter Pumps – Easy-to-Clean – Dacron Paper – Efficient Filtration – Two Pack

Intex Type A Pool Filter Cartridge comes in a twin pack and is made of Dacron fiber material that is easy to clean. It is compatible with various cartridge filter pumps and needs to be replaced every two weeks for optimal performance.

What We Like
Easy to clean
Reusable filters
Keeps water clear
Affordable price
Simple installation
#TOP 2

Bestway SaluSpa Filter Cartridge (VI) Replacement 2-Pack

60311E
White & Blue
2 Count(Pack of 1)
Bestway SaluSpa Filter Cartridge (VI) Replacement 2-Pack Cover
Bestway SaluSpa Filter Cartridge (VI) 2-Pack | Compatible with All SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub and Spa Models

Replace your SaluSpa hot tub's filter with this 2-pack of premium type VI filter cartridges. These filters are easy to clean and long-lasting, ensuring clean and pristine spa water. The cartridges come shrink-wrapped with an insert card and are compatible with all SaluSpa inflatable hot tub and spa models. The dimensions of each cartridge are 4.2 x 4.2 x 3.1 inches.

What We Like
Long-lasting durability
Perfect fit for Bestway/Saluspa
Keeps water clean
Easy to change and maintain
Good value for money
#TOP 3

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
#TOP 4

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
#TOP 5

Intex 29011E Type S1 PureSpa Filter Cartridges (6 Filters)

29001WL
White
4.25 x 2.875 inches
Intex 29011E Type S1 PureSpa Filter Cartridges (6 Filters) Cover
Intex 29011E Type S1 PureSpa Easy Set Pool Spa Hot Tub Filter Replacement Cartridges (6 Filters), Blue and White

The Intex 29011E Type S1 PureSpa Filter Cartridges come in a pack of six and are designed to keep your PureSpa Jet Massage water clean and fresh. The filter cartridges are made with heavy-duty Dacron paper for the ultimate filtration and can be cleaned and reused for maximum efficiency. These filter cartridges work with all Intex PureSpa models, including 28403E, 28407E, 28443E, 28453E, 28421E, 28423E, 28413E, and 28453E.

What We Like
Comes in a multi-pack of six filter cartridges
Made with easy to clean, heavy duty Dacron paper for ultimate filtration
Can be cleaned and reused for maximum efficiency
#TOP 6

POOLPURE PLF90A Pool Filter

PLF90A
White
1 Pack
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
#TOP 7

Volca Spares Hot Tub Filter Cartridge - 6 Pack

FD-EP-230201-1500
White
Volca Spares Hot Tub Filter Cartridge - 6 Pack Cover
Volca Spares Hot Tub Filter Cartridge Size VI for Bestway, Lay-Z-Spa, Coleman SaluSpa 90352E 58323, 6 Pack

The Volca Spares Hot Tub Filter Cartridge Size VI is a premium quality dacron fabric filter cartridge that provides clean and clear water for all spa models using Type VI filters. It collects hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand, and other debris, making it easy to clean and replace. For the best results, clean and replace the filter cartridges every few weeks if used heavily. With 100% satisfaction products and worry-free customer service from Volca Spares, you can enjoy your spa time without any worry.

What We Like
Easy to install
Fits well in hot tub
Good cleaning performance
Reusable and easy to clean
#TOP 8

POOLPURE PLF100A Pool Filter

PLF100A
1 pack
POOLPURE PLF100A Pool Filter Cover
POOLPURE PLF100A Pool Filter Replaces Pentair CC100, CCRP100, PAP100, PAP100-4, Ultral-C3, Unicel C-9410, R173215, Filbur FC-0686, 59054200, 160316, 160354, Predator 100, L x OD:23 5/8" x 10 1/16"

Enjoy clean and safe water with POOLPURE Pool Filter. This compatible filter is designed with innovated "Dirt-Locking" technology which traps contaminants more effectively than regular fabric. It efficiently removes hair, leaves, dust, sediment, sand, and more. With a length of 23 5/8", outside diameter of 10 1/16", and top & bottom opening of 6", this filter is compatible with Pentair Clean and Clear 100, Posi-Clear PCRP100, R173215, 59054200, PAP100, Unicel C-9410, and Filbur FC-0686. It's NSF/ANSI 50 certified, ensuring safe and clear purified water. POOLPURE offers a 100% money-back guarantee and a six-month return policy. Additionally, the product life time warranty confirms any defects in material and workmanship within each filter's 12 months service life.

What We Like
NSF/ANSI 50 certified
Compatible with multiple models
Powerful filtration performance
Long service life
#TOP 9

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
#TOP 10

POOLPURE Type VI SPA and Hot Tub Filter Replaces Coleman SaluSpa 90352E 58323 90427E

Type VI
white
POOLPURE Type VI SPA and Hot Tub Filter Replaces Coleman SaluSpa 90352E 58323 90427E Cover
POOLPURE Type VI SPA and Hot Tub Filter Replaces Coleman SaluSpa 90352E 58323 90427E, Lay-Z-Spa Hot Tub Filter Cartridge, Inflatable Hot Tub Filters, Set of 6

Features
[Specifications] Length 3 1/8", Diameter 4 1/4", Openings:2" Top & Bottom. Trilobal Filtration Fabric. Poolpure Offers Options Of 4, 6, 12, And 16 Packages.
[Compatibility Models] POOLPURE Type VI SPA And Hot Tub Filter Compatible With Coleman SaluSpa 90352E 58323 90427E, Lay-Z-Spa, Intex And Other Inflatable Hot Tub Filters.NOTE: This Is A Compatible Replacement Part. Original Manufacturers' Names And Part Numbers Are Referenced For Compatibility. POOLPURE Is An Independent Brand.
[Extended Lifespan] With 25% Thicker Filtration Fabric Compared To Standard Filters, Heavy Chlorine-Resistant & Break-Resistant End Caps And Reinforced Center Support, The Filter Service Life Extends By 20-30% Compared To Normal Filter Cartridges. We're Dedicated To Offering Top-Quality Products At An Affordable Price.
[Effortless Maintenance] Advanced Trilobal Fibers Ensure Effortless Stain Capture And Release, Simplifying The Cleaning Process. For Optimal Performance, It's Recommended To Clean The Cartridges Once A Month. Not For Backwashing – This Filter Cartridge Is Not Designed For Backwashing. Backwashing May Cause Cracks Or Permanent Damage.
[Advanced Filtration Technology] Our Innovative "Dirt-Locking" Technology Ensures The Fabric Own 3x Debris Capture Than Standard Filters. Filtration Precision Up To 50 Microns, Removing 99% Of Hair, Leaves, Dust, Sediment, Sand, And More For A Pristine Spa Experience.
Not For Backwashing – This Filter Cartridge Is Not Designed For Backwashing. Backwashing May Cause Cracks Or Permanent Damage.
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What size cartridge filter do I need for my above ground pool?

For above ground pools, the recommended filter size is at least 100 square feet of filtration area per 10,000 gallons of pool water. This ensures effective filtration and helps keep your pool clean and clear.

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. This involves measuring the old cartridge with a tape measure after removing it from the housing. By finding a cartridge with the same dimensions, you can ensure a proper fit and optimal filtration for your above ground pool.

3. Are cartridge filters good for above ground pools?

Yes, cartridge filters are a great choice for above ground pools. They are effective in removing dirt and debris, resulting in a cleaner and more sparkling pool. Cartridge filters provide excellent water clarity, making cloudy pools a thing of the past.

4. Can you oversize a pool cartridge filter?

It is essential to size the pool cartridge filter properly. Selecting a filter that is too small for a large pool will require frequent replacements and may not handle the pressure. On the other hand, choosing a filter that is too big can lead to excessive filtration, potentially making the pool unsafe. Therefore, it is important to choose the right size filter for your above ground pool.

5. How often should pool filter cartridges be replaced?

Pool filter cartridges should be replaced every 1-2 years or after approximately 2,000 hours of use in a filter pump. Factors such as exposure to sunscreen, deodorants, hair care products, and other chemicals in the pool water can shorten the lifespan of the filter cartridge.

6. What pool filter is better sand or cartridge?

While both sand and cartridge filters have their benefits, cartridge filters tend to offer better water clarity. Cartridge filters can screen out twice as much dirt and debris compared to sand filters, resulting in cleaner pool water.

7. How long does an above ground pool filter cartridge last?

The lifespan of an above ground pool filter cartridge is typically around 2 to 3 years. However, this can vary depending on factors such as usage and maintenance. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and replace the cartridge as needed to ensure optimal filtration.

8. How do you size a pool filter cartridge?

When sizing a pool filter cartridge, it is important to adhere to the manufacturer's maximum flow rates. Avoid choosing a cartridge that is too small, as it may result in short cleaning cycles. A general rule of thumb is to use the formula of 3 times the flow rate for the minimum size, and follow the manufacturer's rating for the maximum size of the cartridge filter.

Editor's Notes

During our pool filter cartridge for above ground research, we found 24 pool filter cartridge for above ground products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 254,255 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pool filter cartridges for above ground list. We found that most customers choose pool filter cartridges for above ground with an average price of $44.16.

The pool filter cartridges for above ground are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pool filter cartridges for above ground, including Intex, Bestway, POOLPURE, Volca Spares. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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.