Hayward D.E. (diatomaceous earth) filter replacement media are the key to keeping pool water crystal clear and running efficiently. This guide covers the most commonly replaced media for Hayward DE systems — pleated cartridge elements for the DEP500 series and genuine Hayward ProGrid and Perflex replacement grids/fingers for popular DE models (DE3620, DE4820, DE6020, DE7220, plus Perflex finger packs). Each section below explains compatibility, materials, filtration performance, dimensions, expected lifespan, notable features, and trusted third-party alternatives so you can choose the right replacement media fast. Whether you’re maintaining a residential in-ground pool or upgrading to longer-lasting aftermarket components, these short descriptions make it easy to match parts to model numbers, plan routine maintenance, and avoid cloudy water. Use this as your quick reference for buying and scheduling replacements — and bookmark it for seasonal service checks.
Pleated Cartridge Elements for Hayward DEP500 DE Pool Filters (DEP60, DEP80, DEP100)
DEP60 Pleated Cartridge Element
Model compatibility: Hayward DEP500 series — recommended for DEP60 cartridge retrofit or DEP500 hybrid units.
Dimensions: approx. 9–12″ diameter × 20–24″ height (varies by manufacturer).
Material: multi-pleat polyester media with reinforced core and end caps.
Filtration capacity: typically captures 5–10 micron particulates (depends on media grade).
Life span: 1–2 years under normal residential use; longer with routine rinsing.
Important features: high surface area pleats for low pressure drop and easy rinse cleaning.
Third-party options: several OEM-compatible pleated cartridges available from aftermarket brands — check dimensions and end-cap style.
When to replace: replace when flow decreases, pressure differential stays high after cleaning, or media is physically damaged.
DEP80 Pleated Cartridge Element
Model compatibility: DEP500/DEP80 retrofit applications and larger DEP500 hybrids.
Dimensions: approx. 10–14″ diameter × 24–28″ height (manufacturer dependent).
Material: polyester pleated media with stabilizing core.
Filtration capacity: ~5–8 microns when new.
Life span: 1–3 years depending on load and maintenance.
Important features: deeper pleats for extended run times and reduced cleaning frequency.
Third-party options: compatible aftermarket cartridges widely sold — match square/round core and gasket style.
When to replace: when rinsing no longer restores normal pressure or pleat collapse/damage occurs.
DEP100 Pleated Cartridge Element
Model compatibility: largest DEP500 cartridge spec and DEP500 hybrid setups requiring maximum surface area.
Dimensions: approx. 12–16″ diameter × 28–32″ height (check exact OEM spec).
Material: heavy-duty polyester pleats with reinforced core and end caps.
Filtration capacity: 3–8 microns depending on media density.
Life span: 1–3 years with routine maintenance.
Important features: maximum surface area for minimal pressure rise and longer service intervals.
Third-party options: premium aftermarket pleats available — verify fit before purchase.
When to replace: when pressure remains elevated after cleaning or pleats show permanent fouling or tears.
Hayward ProGrid D.E. Pool Filter Grids for DE4820
ProGrid Grid Set — DE4820
Model compatibility: Hayward ProGrid DE4820 (and equivalent Hayward part number grids).
Dimensions: grid set sized for 48 sq ft filter area (individual grid/fabric dimensions per OEM).
Material: polyester filter fabric bonded to vinyl or polypropylene grid panels.
Filtration capacity: 2–5 microns with proper D.E. coating.
Life span: typically 3–5 years; inspect fabric for tears annually.
Important features: full-area grid design for consistent D.E. coating and efficient debris capture.
Third-party options: aftermarket grid packs exist but confirm grid count and manifold fit for DE4820.
When to replace: replace if fabric tears, seams separate, or efficiency drops despite cleaning.
Hayward ProGrid D.E. Pool Filter Grids for DE6020
ProGrid Grid Set — DE6020
Model compatibility: Hayward ProGrid DE6020 (60 sq ft class grid sets).
Dimensions: sized to provide approximately 60 sq ft of filtration area (check OEM specs for grid count).
Material: durable polyester media bonded to plastic grid frames.
Filtration capacity: high-efficiency D.E. capture to 2–5 microns.
Life span: 3–5 years with routine cleaning and correct D.E. handling.
Important features: larger area reduces backwashing frequency and lowers pressure increase rate.
Third-party options: compatible grid packs available — verify manifold and top-manifold bolt pattern.
When to replace: replace when grids bleed D.E., show holes, or cannot be cleaned to restore flow.
Hayward ProGrid D.E. Pool Filter Grids for DE3620
ProGrid Grid Set — DE3620
Model compatibility: Hayward ProGrid DE3620 (36 sq ft class).
Dimensions: grid set sized for ~36 sq ft total media area.
Material: polyester fabric over molded grid frames; corrosion-resistant components.
Filtration capacity: 2–5 microns with correct D.E. charge.
Life span: 3–5 years; heavy use or chemical damage shortens life.
Important features: compact footprint with efficient D.E. coverage.
Third-party options: reputable aftermarket grids sold — confirm fit and grid count for DE3620.
When to replace: when fabric shows rips, seams fail, or flow cannot be recovered after cleaning.
Hayward ProGrid D.E. Pool Filter Grids for DE7220
ProGrid Grid Set — DE7220
Model compatibility: Hayward DE7220 (large-capacity ProGrid models with ~72 sq ft area).
Dimensions: designed to provide roughly 72 sq ft filtration area (confirm OEM grid count).
Material: reinforced polyester filter media on rigid grid frames.
Filtration capacity: 2–5 micron performance when used with D.E.
Life span: 3–6 years depending on use and maintenance.
Important features: maximum surface area for longest run-times and lowest pressure rise.
Third-party options: select aftermarket grid packs are available — ensure correct physical fit and manifold compatibility.
When to replace: replace if grids leak D.E., have permanent fouling, or physical damage is present.
Hayward Perflex D.E. Pool Filter Fingers (Perflex / EC Series)
Perflex Flex-Tube Fingers (Perflex / EC Series)
Model compatibility: Hayward Perflex bump-style DE filters (EC40, EC50, EC65, EC75 and similar Perflex models).
Dimensions: finger length and diameter vary by model — sold in sets sized to the filter’s finger count.
Material: flexible thermoplastic or rubber sleeves over inner support tubes with pleated media.
Filtration capacity: captures fine particles when coated with D.E.; similar 2–5 micron range when properly charged.
Life span: 2–4 years typical; inspect sleeves annually for splits or wear.
Important features: “bump” action shakes D.E. free to extend run times and simplify maintenance.
Third-party options: aftermarket finger packs available but confirm count and mounting style before ordering.
When to replace: replace individual fingers that leak, tear, or have lost structural integrity after cleaning cycles.
Choosing the correct replacement media for Hayward DE filters—whether pleated cartridge elements for DEP500 hybrids, ProGrid grid sets for DE3620/DE4820/DE6020/DE7220, or Perflex fingers—ensures peak filtration, efficient pump operation, and longer service life. Match parts by model number and physical dimensions, inspect media each season, and replace when cleaning no longer restores normal pressure or when you see tears or permanent fouling. Regular replacement keeps your pool water clearer and maintenance predictable.
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