Finding the right cartridge pool filter for an inground setup involves balancing filter area, compatibility, durability, and ease of maintenance. Below are five leading options that align with common inground pool systems, offering compatible replacements and robust filtration. Each option provides strong debris capture, easy cleaning, and reliable performance with standard 3″ top and bottom connections. Use the buying guide at the end to compare core considerations such as filtration area, media density, and housing design to fit your pool size and pump flow.
| Product | Brand | Filter Area | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Future Way CCP420 Cartridge Filter Cartridges | Future Way | 420 sq. ft | Compatible with multiple 420 sq.ft systems; 4-pack |
| Optimum Pool Technologies 4-Pack | Optimum Pool | 420 sq. ft | U.S.-made media; durable support bands |
| Cryspool CCP420 Filter Cartridges | Cryspool | 4×105 sq. ft | Advanced trilobal material; broad compatibility |
| Swimara 4-Pack CCP420 Cartridges | Swimara | 420 sq. ft total | Premium 5 oz media; cross-references with OEM numbers |
| Hayward W3C12002 StarClear Plus | Hayward | 120 sq. ft | Single large cartridge; strong core and seals |
Future Way CCP420 Filter Cartridges
These replacement cartridges are designed to fit Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 420 and related 420 sq.ft systems. They replace multiple OEM and compatible models, including R173576 and PCC105/PAK4 variants. The filter dimensions are 26 inches long with a 7-inch outside diameter and 3-inch openings on top and bottom. NSF/ANSI 50 certified materials ensure safety in contact with pool water. The trilobal pleated design captures three times more debris than standard fabrics, improving clarity by trapping leaves, hair, sand, and oils. Easy maintenance is supported by a trilobal structure that keeps large particles from concentrating in any single area, aiding thorough rinsing.
Optimum Pool Technologies 4-Pack
Made in the USA with 100% Reemay filtration media, these cartridges are built for durability and cleanability. They include support bands around each cartridge element for strength and are designed as compatible replacements for the Pentair CCP420 family (including 160301). The 3″ top and bottom openings, 7″ outside diameter, and 26-1/16″ length match standard 420 sq.ft housings. Applications extend to Waterway Crystal Water 105 SQFT and related models, offering a reliable option for inground pools seeking robust filtration with easy serviceability.
Cryspool CCP420 Cartridges
Cryspool offers 4×105 sq.ft cartridges compatible with CCP420, Clean and Clear Plus 420, C-7471, R173576, 178584, PCC105-PAK4, and FC-6470. Each cartridge measures 26-1/16″ in length with 7″ outside diameter and 3″ top and bottom openings. The brand emphasizes trilobal fiber materials that bolster filtration capacity and service life. The design aims to improve water processing thoroughness, with advanced materials intended to lengthen replacement intervals and maintain water clarity in inground pools.
Swimara 5oz CCP420 Cartridges
Swimara’s 4-pack is designed as a premium replacement for Pentair OEM 178584 and R173576, cross-referencing with Pleatco PCC105 and Unicel C-7471/FC-1977. It uses 5 oz trilobal media, nearly twice the density of common 3 oz cartridges. The 26-1/16″ length and 7″ OD fit standard 420 sq.ft housings. This higher media density improves debris capture down to fine particulates, extending time between cleanings while preserving water clarity for inground pools.
Hayward W3C12002 StarClear Plus
The Hayward StarClear Plus 120-Square-Foot filter uses a single large cartridge with a precision-engineered core and gasketed end caps for enhanced strength and higher flow. The design includes a secure single-locking knob to fasten the filter head to the tank, and a one-piece injection-molded base and body for reliability and corrosion resistance. This model suits inground installations needing efficient cleaning capacity in a compact footprint, enabling straightforward maintenance and dependable filtration performance.
Buying Guide
Key considerations for selecting cartridge filters for inground pools include:
- Filter Area and Flow Compatibility: Larger filter areas (e.g., 420 sq. ft) accommodate higher pump flow and larger pools, reducing pressure drop and extending time between cleanings. Match the cartridge length, diameter, and top/bottom connection to your filter housing.
- Filtration Media Density: Higher-ounce media (e.g., 5 oz) provides finer filtration and longer service life, but may marginally affect flow. Consider your pool size, debris load, and desired water clarity when choosing media density.
- Material and Durability: Trilobal fibers and reinforced end caps improve chemical resistance, tear strength, and ease of rinsing. NSF/ANSI 50 certification for materials adds a safety assurance for residential pools.
- Compatibility: Verify that the cartridge model cross-references OEM part numbers you currently use. Cross-compatibility can simplify replacements and keep your pool operating smoothly.
- Ease of Maintenance: Cartridges with easy rinsing properties and robust construction reduce downtime and extend service life. Consider brands offering clear replacement guidance and readily available packs.
- Cost and Availability: A 4-pack or 5-pack can lower per-unit cost and ensure a steady supply for routine maintenance. Assess the total cost of ownership along with performance.
- Pool Size and Pump Compatibility: For larger inground pools or higher flow pumps, prioritize 420 sq. ft or higher cartridges. For smaller setups, 120 sq. ft cartridges may suffice if matched correctly to your system.
Across these options, ensure you select a cartridge with a compatible size (26-1/16″ length, 7″ outside diameter, 3″ openings) to fit most standard inground filter housings. Assess your pool’s size, debris load, climate, and pump capacity to optimize filter life and water clarity without compromising water flow.