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Brand Buying Guide

Hayward® Pool Filter Cartridge Buying Guide

Identify your SwimClear, Star-Clear Plus, XStream, or EasyClear cartridge and match the right replacement.

This guide helps you work out which cartridge your Hayward® filter takes, where the part number is printed, and when the cartridge is due for replacement. Once you have the CX number — or the housing model from the tank label — matching a USA-made Excel Filters replacement takes seconds.

How to identify your Hayward® filter cartridge

  1. Check the end cap and tank label. Hayward® replacement cartridges carry CX-prefixed part numbers (CX880RE, for example), and the housing model — such as C4030 — is printed on the tank label; either number identifies the cartridge you need.
  2. Match the number. Every Excel Filters product page lists the OEM part numbers and housings it replaces, plus the matching Pleatco, Unicel, and Filbur cross-reference numbers. You can also look up any part number on our cross-reference chart.
  3. No legible number? Measure outer diameter, length, and both end caps — our how to measure your filter cartridge guide walks through each dimension.

Have your number? to jump straight to the matching replacement.

Which Hayward® filter system do you have?

  • Hayward® SwimClear Cartridge Filters Ideal for larger pools, SwimClear filters deliver top-tier filtration with multiple reusable filter cartridges that offer extended cleaning cycles. Shop SwimClear replacement cartridges.
  • Hayward® Star-Clear Plus Cartridge Filters Known for durable construction and outstanding performance, Star-Clear Plus filters are suitable for both above-ground and inground pools with excellent water clarity.
  • Hayward® XStream Cartridge Filters Designed for above-ground pools, XStream filters provide large-capacity filtration for longer cleaning cycles and reduced maintenance frequency.
  • Hayward® Easy-Clear Cartridge Filters Ideal for small to medium-sized above-ground pools with a compact design, powerful filtration, and easy cartridge access.

Cleaning and replacing your Hayward® cartridge

Rinse the cartridge with a garden hose every few weeks during swim season, spraying at an angle to flush debris from between the pleats. Deep-clean with a cartridge cleaning solution at least once a season to remove the oils and scale rinsing leaves behind — our care and maintenance guide covers the full routine. Most cartridges last 12 to 24 months: replace yours when cleaning no longer restores water flow, the pleats fray or stay discolored, or an end cap cracks.

Why Choose Excel Filters?

  • Made in the USA — Premium pool and spa filters manufactured with strict quality standards.
  • OEM-Level Quality — Designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications for fit, function, and performance.
  • Expert Support — Our filtration specialists can help you identify the correct replacement cartridge.
  • Competitive Pricing — High-quality filtration without the premium OEM price tag.

Once you know which cartridge you need, shop Hayward® replacement filter cartridges in singles or money-saving multi-packs — engineered to OEM dimensions, made in the USA, and backed by our Perfect Fit Guarantee on listed cross-references.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the right Hayward® replacement filter cartridge?

Check the OEM part number printed on the end cap of your current cartridge, or measure its diameter, length, and both end caps. Every Excel Filters product page lists the Hayward® and aftermarket part numbers it replaces (Pleatco, Unicel, Filbur), and our how-to-measure guide walks through each dimension step by step.

How often should I replace my Hayward® filter cartridge?

Most pool and spa filter cartridges last 12 to 24 months depending on usage, debris load, and water chemistry. Replace the cartridge when cleaning no longer restores water flow, the pleats fray, or an end cap cracks. Rinsing the cartridge regularly during swim season extends its life.

Are Excel Filters cartridges compatible with Hayward® filter systems?

Yes. Excel Filters replacement cartridges are manufactured in the USA and engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications for Hayward® systems, with matching dimensions, end caps, and filtration media.

Do Excel Filters replacement cartridges come with a warranty?

Yes. Every Excel Filters cartridge is covered by a 6-month limited warranty against defects in materials and manufacturing, and a 30-day return policy.

How fast is shipping?

Standard shipping is free on all orders within the United States. Orders ship within 1–2 business days and typically arrive within 2–3 business days after that.

Shop Hayward® Replacement Filters

Browse 20 compatible Excel Filters replacements for Hayward® systems. View all Hayward® replacement filter cartridges.