Product Overview

The Hayward Pro-Grid 48 sq. ft. DE Filter W3DE4820 is built for exceptional water clarity, efficient flow, and dependable filtration performance for in-ground pools and spas. Using diatomaceous earth filtration, this vertical grid filter helps capture very fine particles for sparkling clean pool water.

The Pro-Grid series combines durable glass-reinforced co-polymer construction with a service-friendly vertical grid design. Its high-impact grid elements support up-flow filtration and top-down backwashing, while the heavy-duty one-piece flange clamp allows access to internal components without disturbing the plumbing.

Important: This model does not include a backwash valve. A compatible Hayward multiport or slide valve must be purchased separately.

Ideal For

Residential in-ground swimming pools
In-ground spas and pool/spa combinations
Large residential pool systems requiring DE filtration
Customers looking for superior fine-particle water clarity
Replacement for Hayward DE4820 / W3DE4820 filter systems
Pool owners upgrading from sand or smaller filter systems

Key Features

48 sq. ft. DE Filtration Area

The 48 square foot effective filtration area provides strong dirt-holding capacity and excellent water clarity for residential pool and spa systems.

Superior DE Water Clarity

Diatomaceous earth filtration helps capture fine particles that can pass through many standard filtration systems, producing cleaner, clearer pool water.

Durable Glass-Reinforced Co-Polymer Tank

The filter tank is built from durable glass-reinforced co-polymer material designed to withstand demanding pool equipment environments.

High-Impact Vertical Grid Elements

The internal grid elements are designed for up-flow filtration and top-down backwashing, supporting efficient performance and easier cleaning.

Rapid-Release Manual Air Relief

A high-capacity manual air relief valve helps release trapped air quickly with a simple quarter-turn lever.

One-Piece Flange Clamp

The heavy-duty, tamper-proof flange clamp securely fastens the tank top and bottom while allowing quick access to internal components for service.

Self-Aligned Tank Design

The tank top and bottom are designed to align easily, making access to the grid elements faster and simpler during maintenance.

2" Full-Flow Internal Plumbing

Full-flow internal piping helps reduce resistance and supports strong, efficient water movement through the filter.

Valve Flexibility

The filter can be paired with compatible Hayward multiport or slide valves depending on the pool system’s plumbing size and installation preference.

Benefits

The Hayward W3DE4820 is a strong choice for pool owners who want premium DE filtration with reliable construction and straightforward service access. DE filters are commonly chosen for their ability to deliver excellent water clarity by capturing fine debris and suspended particles.

With its 48 sq. ft. filtration area, 6 lb DE charge, 120 GPM residential design flow rate, and reinforced tank construction, this model is well suited for larger in-ground pool and spa systems when properly matched with the pump, plumbing, and valve.

Specifications

Compatible Valve Options

Compatible valve selection depends on the pool system plumbing size and installation preference.

What’s Included

Hayward W3DE4820 Pro-Grid 48 sq. ft. DE filter tank
Internal vertical grid assembly
One-piece flange clamp system
Manual air relief assembly
Integral lift handles
Low-profile filter base

Backwash valve is not included.
Pool-grade DE powder is not included.
Pressure gauge is listed by Hayward as not included for this model.

Customer-Facing Q&A

Does this filter include the backwash valve?

No. The Hayward W3DE4820 does not include a backwash valve. A compatible Hayward multiport or slide valve must be purchased separately.

How much DE powder does this filter require?

This filter requires 6 lbs. of pool-grade diatomaceous earth after a full cleaning or recharge.

Is DE powder included?

No. DE powder must be purchased separately.

What is the flow rate?

The Hayward W3DE4820 has a 120 GPM residential design flow rate and a 96 GPM public design flow rate.

Is this a cartridge filter?

No. This is a DE filter. It uses internal grids coated with diatomaceous earth powder.

Is this a sand filter?

No. This filter does not use sand. It uses DE powder as the filter media.

What type of pool is this filter for?

This model is designed for in-ground pool and spa applications.

How many grids are inside?

Hayward lists this model with 10 filter elements.

Does this filter include a pressure gauge?

Hayward lists the W3DE4820 as pressure gauge not included.

How is this filter cleaned?

The filter is cleaned by backwashing through a compatible backwash valve. For deeper maintenance, the tank can be opened and the grid assembly can be removed and rinsed.