Waterco Compatible · Pool and Spa Filter

Replacement Filter for Waterco Opal XL 180 & 270 Replacement Filter—

Replaces Waterco 701038

SKU · XLS-938 1PACK UPC · 810625020648
$109.99
Taxes and shipping calculated at checkout
In stock 83 available now

Fits & replaces

This Excel Filters cartridge (XLS-938) is a direct-fit replacement for Waterco Opal XL 270, Opal XL 180, and 270. WaterCo Part Number 701038 filter systems, cross-referenced with OEM Waterco® 701038 and aftermarket Unicel C-9444. Confirm the part number on your current cartridge — or its diameter, length, and end caps — before ordering.

See the full compatibility list (4) →

Pleatco / Unicel / Filbur equivalents on the cross-reference chart →

  • Free shipping On all orders
  • Perfect Fit Guarantee On listed cross-references
  • Made in the USA Proudly manufactured in Austin, TX Austin, TX
Overview

Built to OEM Spec, Engineered to Clean®

Built to OEM dimensions for Waterco Opal XL 270, Opal XL 180, and 270. WaterCo Part Number 701038 cartridge filter systems, this replacement matches the original cartridge geometry, end-cap style, and media surface area — without the OEM markup. It directly replaces OEM Waterco® 701038 and aftermarket Unicel C-9444 part numbers — the full cross-reference list is in the Compatibility tab. Every cartridge is manufactured in our Austin, TX facility, ships free, and is backed by the Excel Filters Perfect Fit Guarantee on its listed cross-references.

The XLS-938 1PACK replacement cartridge is engineered for Waterco and built for dependable day-to-day filtration performance. Each cartridge is sized at 10 3/10" diameter x 17 1/4" length, with Open End top and Open End bottom end caps for direct-fit installation with no housing modifications.

Dimensions & fit

Measure once. Order with confidence.

A Outer diameter
10 3/10"
B Overall length
17 1/4"
C Top end cap
Open End
D Bottom end cap
Open End
Tip

Measure your old cartridge cap-to-cap. A variance of ⅛" is normal — anything larger likely means a different housing model.

Cross-reference

Check compatibility by system or part number

Match your filter housing below, click any part number to verify the fit, or paste your existing part number into the search box.

Fits These Systems

Filter housings and systems this cartridge fits

Waterco® housings
Waterco Opal XL 180Waterco Opal XL 270 lower/long-element position (used with one XLS-937)

Replaces These Part Numbers

OEM and competitor cartridge part numbers this product replaces

Waterco®
Unicel
Fit note Qty per housing: 1; Opal XL 270 also needs 1 XLS-937.
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FAQ

Fit, replacement & ordering questions

What part numbers does the XLS-938 replace?

The Excel Filters XLS-938 replaces Waterco 701038, and aftermarket equivalents Unicel C-9444.

Which filter systems does the XLS-938 fit?

It fits Waterco Opal XL 180, Waterco Opal XL 270 lower, long-element position (used with one XLS-937). If your housing is not listed, match the part number stamped on your current cartridge on our cross-reference chart.

What are the dimensions of the XLS-938 cartridge?

10 3/10" diameter, 17 1/4" long, 180 ft² of media (end caps — top: 3" Open End, bottom: 3" Open End). Measure your old cartridge before ordering if you are unsure of the part number.

Is this a genuine Waterco part?

No. The XLS-938 is an independently manufactured replacement cartridge, made in the USA by Excel Filters and built to match the Waterco 701038 specification. Waterco is a trademark of its owner, used only to show compatibility.

How often should the XLS-938 be replaced?

Most pool and spa cartridges last 1–2 seasons with regular rinsing. Replace it when cleaning no longer restores flow, the pleats fray, or the end caps crack.