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

Is this a cartridge filter?

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

Does this filter require backwashing?

No. The Perflex W3EC65A is designed for no-backwash operation. The bump handle cleans the Flex-Tubes and helps redistribute the DE.

How much DE powder does this filter need?

This filter requires 6 lbs. of pool-grade diatomaceous earth.

Is DE powder included?

No. DE powder must be purchased separately.

What is the flow rate?

The Hayward W3EC65A is commonly listed with a 67 GPM flow rate.

Does this filter include a valve?

No. A valve is not included. Any required valve or plumbing accessories must be purchased separately.

What does the bump handle do?

The bump handle activates the Flex-Tubes, helping remove dirt and DE powder from the tube surfaces so fresh filtering surfaces can form.

What type of pool is this filter for?

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.

What makes Perflex different from standard DE filters?

Perflex filters use Hayward’s Flex-Tube system and bump handle cleaning method, allowing extended filter cycles without traditional backwashing.