The label on the box promises effortless circulation, yet even a fractional size mismatch creates unfiltered water bypass that leaves the water murky and pump pressure climbing. Ordering is deceptive because dozens of distinct designs share the exact same surface area rating. Forcing in a core with the wrong end cap opening, slightly off-spec height, or mismatched pipe unions can crush pleated folds under normal pump flow, leak fine debris back into the return jets, and trigger the headache of hauling wet equipment back to the post office.
Getting back to sparkling, clear water requires zero guesswork once you verify the physical dimensions. Measuring the exact outside diameter, overall length, and center core opening against the old element guarantees a snug seal that traps dirt without spiking tank pressure. Confirming OEM cross-reference numbers and verifying whether a setup calls for a full tank assembly or just a drop-in element provides flawless plumbing fitment from day one. Here is how the leading options compare to keep your pool running smoothly all season long.
Pool Filter Specifications: Length:25 1/2", outside diameter:7", top/bottom:3" open w/ molded gasket, filtration area:106 sq.ft. Filter material: trilobal filtration fabric.Compatible Models: C-7488, Filbur FC-1226, PA106, C-4025, 725-175-04, Hayward CX880XRE, PA106-4, PA106-PAK4.Unique Design: With
Key specs
- Cartridge Dimensions
- 25 1/2 in L x 7 in OD x 3 in core
- Multi-Pack Application
- Ships as a 4-pack of 106 sq ft elements matching systems that require C-7488 or Hayward CX880XRE configurations instead of single-cartridge tanks.
Pros:
- Comes in a four pack convenient for multi cartridge systems or multi season spares
- Features chlorine resistant end caps and a reinforced center support core
- Uses thickened trilobal fabric engineered to trap sediment, hair, sand, and fine dust
- Built with molded gaskets on 3 inch open ends for a tight plumbing seal
Cons:
- Sized at 106 square feet per element rather than a single 175 square foot unit
- Measures 25.5 inches by 7 inches, so it will not fit standard 28 inch single cartridge tanks
【NSF/ANSI 50 Certified】 Poolpure Pool and Spa filter is tested and certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50. Poolpure filter delivers safe and clear purified water to inspire the highest sense of happiness. Enjoy your unique leisure time.【Compatible Models】Length: 28 3/16"; Outside Diameter: 8 15/16"
Key specs
- Sanitation Certification
- NSF/ANSI 50 certified by IAPMO
- OEM Compatibility Check
- Hayward C1750, C17502, CX1750RE
- Unicel C-8417 and Filbur FC-1294
- Sta-Rite Posi-Clear PXC175
- Waterway Proclean PCCF-175 and 817-0175P
Pros:
- Certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50 standards for swimming pool safety
- Standard 28 3/16 inch length and 8 15/16 inch diameter fits common Hayward C1750 tanks
- Trilobal fabric pleating traps sediment, sand, and leaves while rinsing clean
- Backed by a 6-month return policy and 12-month defect protection
Cons:
- Replacement element only and does not include an exterior tank or pressure gauge
- Requires verifying the 4-inch core opening against your existing manifold before setup
【SIZE】Length: 28 3/16"; Outside Diameter: 8 15/16" ; Top & Bottom Opening: 4" ; Filtration Area: 175 sq. ft.【COMPATIBLE MODELS】Compatible with CX1750RE, C1900RE, Unicel C-8417, Filbur FC-1294, PA175, Waterway Pro Clean 175, Posi-Clear PXC 175, Sta-Rite PXC175, 25230-0175S, 817-0175P, Aladdin 27501.N
Key specs
- Media Structure
- Constructed with trilobal pleat fibers engineered for deeper particulate penetration and easier hose rinsing compared to standard point-bond fabric.
- Direct Sizing
- 28 3/16 in L x 8 15/16 in OD (4 in open ends)
Pros:
- True 175 square foot filtration area with standard 28 3/16 inch length
- Dense trilobal fiber structure captures fine particulates deep within pleats
- Cross references Hayward CX1750RE, Unicel C-8417, and Sta-Rite PXC175 setups
- Includes a 6-month return policy for verified manufacturing defects
Cons:
- Standalone cartridge element with no replacement tank O-rings included
- Requires regular pressure gauge monitoring to determine optimal rinse cycles
ROBUST DESIGN: The Hayward StarClear Plus 175 sq. ft. pool filter features an extra-large single-element cartridge for additional durability and maximum water flowEASIER TO CLEAN: Single-knob design securely fastens filter head to tank without clamps or boltsWON'T CORRODE: Single-piece injection mol
Key specs
- Equipment Type
- Complete filter tank system (44.8 in H)
- Plumbing Flexibility
- Offers female internal pipe connections for 1.5-inch and 2-inch lines along with 2-inch socket options, fitting varied equipment pads.
- Tank Hardware Design
- The single-knob clamp-free head fastens securely without nuts or bolts, and rotates for straightforward access to the gauge and air relief valve.
Pros:
- Complete filter tank assembly including internal cartridge element and hardware
- Single-knob lid fastening eliminates difficult bolt clamps during maintenance
- Heavy single-piece injection-molded tank body resists rust and pool chemical corrosion
- Versatile plumbing ports accommodate both 1.5-inch and 2-inch piping setups
- Backed by a 3-year manufacturer warranty
Cons:
- Significantly heavier package at 44 pounds requiring full plumbing installation
- Requires dedicated equipment pad space measuring at least 44.8 inches in height
Compatible Models: Replacement for Hayward CCX1750-RE, Pleatco PXST175, Filbur FC-1287, Unicel C-8317, Waterway 817-0150N, Hayward X-stream 175, Hayward X-Stream CC1750, Clearwater II Pool Filter and Waterway Pro Clean, 817-0150P, SD-00391 filtration cartridgesKeep the Water Clean: The pleated fabri
Key specs
- Canister Housing Match
- Engineered specifically for Hayward X-Stream CC1750 and Waterway Clearwater II tanks that take shorter 23 1/4-inch elements rather than 28-inch cartridges.
- Bundle Quantity
- 4-pack (8 15/16 in OD x 23 1/4 in L)
Pros:
- Four pack supply provides ongoing replacements for Hayward X-Stream CC1750 systems
- Shorter 23 1/4 inch length designed specifically for CCX1750-RE canister bodies
- Dense pleated fabric weave traps leaves, dirt, sand, and fine bather waste
- Washable media allows repeated rinsing before pressure reaches 8 PSI over clean
Cons:
- Sized at 23 1/4 inches long, which will not seal inside 28-inch StarClear C1750 tanks
- Heavy 29-pound bundle requires sufficient dry storage space for spare elements
Compatible Models: Replacement for Hayward CX1750RE, C1900RE, StarClear Plus C8417, Filbur FC-1294, Pleatco PA175, Waterway Pro Clean 175, PCCF-175, C1750, C17502, C17502S, Unicel C-8417, Posi-Clear PXC 175, Sta-Rite PXC175, 25230-0175S, 817-0175P, Aladdin 27501 filtration cartridges.Keep the Water
Key specs
- Standard Tank Fit
- 28 3/16 in L x 8 15/16 in OD
- Service Recommendation
- The manufacturer advises rinsing or changing the pleated media when your filter tank pressure gauge rises 8 PSI above the baseline clean operating level.
Pros:
- Exact 28 3/16 inch length matches Hayward StarClear Plus C1750 and Sta-Rite PXC175
- Tightly woven pleated fabric maximizes surface contact to capture sand and hair
- Standard single unit weight of 7.3 pounds allows easy handling during pool maintenance
- Direct drop in fit for OEM cross references including CX1750RE and Unicel C-8417
Cons:
- Core opening diameter is not stated in the listing specs and should be measured
- Element only, requiring purchase of separate tank lid O-rings if seals are leaking
THE PERFECT MONEY SAVING REPLACEMENT FILTER FOR OTHER, MORE EXPENSIVE "BULLET" SHAPED CARTRIDGE FILTERS!Crafted from extra-durable, glass reinforced, corrosion-resistant co-polymer material that meets the demands of even the toughest applications.Large filter area offers greater efficiency and dirt
Key specs
- Housing Construction
- Molded from glass-reinforced, corrosion-resistant co-polymer designed to withstand high-pressure inground pool filtration demands.
- System Area Rating
- 120 sq ft filtration surface area
Pros:
- Complete inground tank housing built from glass reinforced co-polymer material
- Swappable bullet shape design features a 14 inch wide base for compact equipment pads
- Adapts flexibly between 2-inch and 1.5-inch plumbing pipe connections
- Tank width expands toward the top to facilitate smooth water circulation
Cons:
- Filtration area is 120 square feet, which provides less surface than 175 sq ft tanks
- Complete unit installation requires cutting and gluing PVC pipe connections
PureLine After-Market Replacement Cartridge for Hayward C1750, PA175, Waterways Proclean, Hayward Star Clear Plus C 1750Designed for maximum water flow to extend the pool cartridge lifeDesigned for even dirt distribution resulting in increased waterflow, increased flow rates resulting in less wear o
Key specs
- Element Measurements
- 28 3/16 in L x 8 5/16 in OD x 4 in core
- Cross-Reference Codes
- Hayward CX1750RE and C1750
- Unicel C-8417
- Filbur FC-1294
- Waterway 817-0175P
Pros:
- Direct drop-in match for Hayward StarClear Plus C1750 and CX1750RE specifications
- Designed for even dirt distribution to reduce flow restriction on the pool pump
- Clear 4-inch core opening provides proper seating over standard internal tank pipes
- Extensive cross reference list simplifies replacement of older aftermarket filters
Cons:
- Measures 8 5/16 inches wide, slightly slimmer than standard 8 15/16 inch elements
- Ships without replacement end cap O-rings or tank seals
PureLine After-Market Replacement Cartridge for Waterway Clearwater 150 Clearwater 150, FC150, Proline FC150Designed for maximum water flow to extend the pool cartridge lifeDesigned for even dirt distribution resulting in increased waterflow, increased flow rates resulting in less wear on pump and r
Key specs
- Housing Geometry
- Configured with a 10 1/8 inch outer diameter and 5 7/8 inch inner opening, specifically matching Waterway Clearwater 150 housings rather than Hayward setups.
- Filtration Surface
- 150 sq ft pleated filter media
Pros:
- Wide 10 1/8 inch outer diameter provides substantial filtration surface in compact tanks
- Engineered for even dirt distribution across pleats to reduce energy draw on the pump
- Features a wide 5 7/8 inch inside core diameter for Waterway Clearwater housings
- Directly replaces common C-9403 and FC-2969 filter cartridge elements
Cons:
- Sized for 150 square foot housings and will not match standard 175 square foot models
- Distinct 25 3/8 inch length and extra wide 5 7/8 inch opening prevent cross-brand use
Designed exclusively as an OEM replacement for Pentair Sta-Rite System 2 PLM175 filter canisters, utilizing modular geometry rather than traditional open-core cylinders.
Key specs
- Part Specifications
- OEM 27002-0175S (32.5 in L x 14 in W)
Pros:
- Genuine Pentair Sta-Rite modular media cartridge designed for System 2 PLM175 tanks
- Large 175 square foot modular core built to handle demanding pump turnover rates
- Heavy-duty 17-pound build provides rigidity against pleat collapse under high flow
- Direct OEM replacement part number 27002-0175S ensures proper internal sealing
Cons:
- Modular media profile is 32.5 inches tall and will not fit standard cylindrical canisters
- Substantially bulkier build at 17 pounds compared to typical lightweight drop-in cartridges
Last update on 2026-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
How do I confirm that a 175 sq ft cartridge will fit my existing pool filter housing?
Check the physical measurements of your current cartridge rather than relying solely on the square footage rating. Common 175 sq ft cartridges, such as the POOLPURE PLF175A and Cryspool elements, measure 28 3/16 inches in length, 8 15/16 inches in outside diameter, and have 4-inch top and bottom openings. Other designs, like the Tier1 cartridge built for X-Stream tanks, measure 23.18 inches high and 9.87 inches wide. Matching your old element's exact length, diameter, and core opening dimensions prevents unfiltered water from bypassing the media.
How can I tell if a product listing is a complete filter tank or just a replacement cartridge?
Review the product dimensions and weight to verify whether a listing includes the exterior pressure vessel. A full assembly like the Hayward W3C17502 SwimClear Plus filter stands 44.8 inches tall, weighs 44 pounds, and features a single-knob design that secures the filter head to the tank body without bolts or clamps. Replacement elements like the Tier1 PAS-1044 weigh around 7.3 pounds and consist only of the pleated fabric media. If your existing tank body is structurally sound and holds pressure, you only need the replacement cartridge element.
Which part numbers cross-reference to standard 175 sq ft replacement cartridges?
Match the part number stamped on your original end cap to manufacturer cross-reference lists before buying. Standard 175 sq ft elements frequently replace part numbers CX1750RE, C1750, C17502, C17502S, Unicel C-8417, Filbur FC-1294, Pleatco PA175, and 817-0175P. For modular filter setups such as the Sta-Rite System 2 PLM175, the matching replacement part number is 27002-0175S. Reviewing the best replacement Pentair cartridge pool filter options can help identify compatible elements if you are maintaining a Sta-Rite or Pentair system.
Will a 175 sq ft cartridge handle normal pool pump flow without spiking water pressure?
Yes, as long as the cartridge dimensions fit snugly and the pleated media remains clean. Dense pleated fabric filter media provides wide surface contact to capture fine debris while maintaining steady water circulation. Cartridges such as the POOLPURE PLF175A are certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50 to maintain filtration integrity under normal operational water flow. If pressure rises immediately after installing a new cartridge, confirm that the element sits level on the bottom internal adapter to avoid restricting water return lines.
Why do different 175 sq ft cartridges have completely different physical shapes?
Different filter tank manufacturers build their vessels with unique internal heights and manifold diameters, even when the internal filtration area equals 175 square feet. For example, a Hayward Star-Clear Plus C1750 housing requires an element that is 28 3/16 inches long, whereas a Hayward X-Stream CC1750 housing takes a shorter, wider element measuring 23.18 inches in height. For modular systems, the Pentair Sta-Rite PLM175 cartridge measures 32.5 inches in length. Installing the wrong shape will prevent the tank lid from sealing or allow dirt to slip around the gaskets.
Can a 175 sq ft cartridge clear cloudy pool water on its own?
A clean 175 sq ft cartridge clears cloudy water by trapping suspended physical particles in its dense pleated fabric. But mechanical filtration only removes solid debris, so biological issues like algae blooms or chloramines require proper chemical sanitation or supplemental systems. Adding an inline sanitizer such as a top-rated UV filter for pools helps neutralize living waterborne microorganisms alongside your cartridge system. Once chemical balance is restored, running your pump continuously will allow the 175 sq ft pleats to collect the remaining dead particles.
