Product Overview

The Hayward Perflex 27 sq ft Basic Modular Filter W3EC65A is an extended-cycle DE filter designed to deliver clear, sparkling pool water with efficient, no-backwash operation. Built with Hayward’s patented Flex-Tube design, this filter uses diatomaceous earth to capture fine particles and maintain excellent water clarity.

Unlike traditional backwash DE filters, the Perflex system uses a built-in bump handle to clean the Flex-Tubes and redistribute the DE powder, helping extend filter cycles and reduce water waste. This makes the W3EC65A a practical choice for pool owners who want DE-level filtration with simple maintenance.

Ideal For

Residential swimming pools

In-ground pool applications

Pool owners looking for DE filtration without backwashing

Replacement for Hayward EC65A / W3EC65A filter systems

Customers wanting fine-particle water clarity

Systems requiring a 27 sq. ft. extended-cycle DE filter

Key Features

27 sq. ft. DE Filtration Area: The 27 square foot filtration area provides efficient dirt and debris capture for residential pool systems.

Patented Flex-Tube Design: Hayward’s Flex-Tube system efficiently reuses the DE powder and dirt mixture to form fresh filtering surfaces during the cleaning cycle.

No Backwashing Required: The W3EC65A cleans without traditional backwashing, helping conserve treated pool water and simplifying routine maintenance.

Exclusive Bump Handle: The integrated bump handle activates the Flex-Tubes, helping purge dirt and DE powder from the tube surfaces so the filter can continue operating efficiently.

Superior DE Water Clarity: Diatomaceous earth filtration captures fine particles for clear, polished pool water.

Self-Venting Design: The filter is designed to expel air that may be present in the system through the filtered water returning to the pool.

Uniform DE Coating: The combination diffuser and lower mixing chamber help produce a uniform coating of DE on the Flex-Tubes for consistent filtration performance.

Integral Check Valve: The built-in check valve helps prevent system backflow when the pump is off.

Benefits

The Hayward W3EC65A is a strong option for pool owners who want the water clarity of DE filtration with less water waste than standard backwash systems. Its extended-cycle design helps lengthen time between cleanings, while the bump handle allows quick cleaning of the Flex-Tubes without opening the filter tank each time.

With its 27 sq. ft. filtration area, 67 GPM flow rate, and 6 lb DE charge, this model is well suited for residential pool systems when properly matched with the pump, plumbing, and pool size.

Specifications

What’s Included

• Hayward W3EC65A Perflex 27 sq. ft. DE filter
• Flex-Tube filter assembly
• Bump handle mechanism
• Filter tank and base assembly
• Integral check valve

Pool-grade DE powder is not included.

Valve is not included and must be selected separately based on the system setup.

Customer-Facing Q&A

Q: Is this a cartridge filter?
A: No. The Hayward W3EC65A is a DE filter, not a cartridge filter. It uses diatomaceous earth powder and Hayward’s Flex-Tube system.

Q: Does this filter require backwashing?
A: No. The Perflex W3EC65A is designed for no-backwash operation. The bump handle cleans the Flex-Tubes and helps redistribute the DE.

Q: How much DE powder does this filter need?
A: This filter requires 6 lbs. of pool-grade diatomaceous earth.

Q: Is DE powder included?
A: No. DE powder must be purchased separately.

Q: What is the flow rate?
A: The Hayward W3EC65A is commonly listed with a 67 GPM flow rate.

Q: Does this filter include a valve?
A: No. A valve is not included. Any required valve or plumbing accessories must be purchased separately.

Q: What does the bump handle do?
A: The bump handle activates the Flex-Tubes, helping remove dirt and DE powder from the tube surfaces so fresh filtering surfaces can form.

Q: What type of pool is this filter for?
A: This model is designed for residential pool filtration and is commonly used for in-ground pool applications when properly matched to the pump and plumbing.

Q: What makes Perflex different from standard DE filters?
A: Perflex filters use Hayward’s Flex-Tube system and bump handle cleaning method, allowing extended filter cycles without traditional backwashing.