Product Overview

The Hayward SwimClear 525 sq. ft. Multi-Element Cartridge Filter W3C5030 is a premium high-capacity cartridge filter designed for excellent water clarity, extended cleaning cycles, and simple no-backwash maintenance. Built for residential in-ground pool systems, this SwimClear filter uses four reusable cartridge elements to provide a large 525 sq. ft. effective filtration area, giving pool owners strong dirt-holding capacity and reliable everyday filtration.

The W3C5030 is ideal for larger pools or pool systems with higher debris loads. Its durable glass-reinforced co-polymer tank, full-flow internal plumbing, one-piece clamp system, and high-capacity manual air relief valve make installation, operation, and service easier while supporting efficient hydraulic performance.

Ideal For

Residential in-ground swimming pools
Large pool systems requiring high-capacity filtration
Pool owners upgrading from sand or DE filters
Customers looking for no-backwash cartridge filtration
Systems needing extended cleaning intervals
Replacement for Hayward C5030 / W3C5030 SwimClear filter systems

Key Features

525 sq. ft. Multi-Element Filtration

The large 525 square foot filtration area provides excellent dirt and debris capture, helping maintain clean, clear pool water with longer intervals between cartridge cleanings.

Four-Cartridge Quad-Cluster Design

The SwimClear W3C5030 uses four reusable cartridge elements arranged in a cluster to increase dirt-holding capacity and support efficient water flow.

No Backwashing Required

Cartridge filtration eliminates the need for backwashing, helping conserve water and making routine maintenance easier.

Durable Reinforced Co-Polymer Tank

The filter tank is built from strong, corrosion-resistant glass-reinforced co-polymer material designed for long-lasting outdoor pool equipment performance.

High-Flow Hydraulic Design

SwimClear filters are engineered for low restriction and efficient water movement, helping support strong circulation and energy-efficient pool operation.

One-Piece Clamp Assembly

The heavy-duty one-piece clamp securely fastens the filter tank top and bottom while allowing quick access to the internal cartridge elements for cleaning and service.

2" Full-Flow Internal Plumbing

Full-flow internal plumbing helps reduce system restriction and supports strong flow performance for larger pool systems.

Union Plumbing Connections

PVC union couplings provide convenient installation and service access, with compatibility for 2" or 2-1/2" piping.

Rapid-Release Manual Air Relief

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

Large Integral Drain

The full-size drain allows faster tank draining and easier service or winterization.

Benefits

The Hayward W3C5030 is a strong choice for pool owners who want the clarity and performance of large-capacity cartridge filtration without the water loss of backwashing. Its 525 sq. ft. filtration area provides high dirt-holding capacity, helping extend time between cleanings while maintaining dependable water clarity.

Because this filter does not require sand, DE powder, or a backwash line, it can simplify pool maintenance and reduce water waste. The four-cartridge design, reinforced tank, and high-flow plumbing make it well suited for larger residential in-ground pools when properly matched with the pump and plumbing system.

Specifications

What’s Included

Hayward W3C5030 SwimClear filter tank
Four cartridge elements
One-piece clamp assembly
Top manifold assembly
PVC union connections
Pressure gauge
Rapid-release manual air relief valve
Integral drain

Customer-Facing Q&A

Does this filter include the cartridges?

Yes. The Hayward W3C5030 includes the four cartridge elements required for operation.

What replacement cartridges does this filter use?

The complete replacement cartridge pack is Hayward CX1280XREPAK4. The individual replacement cartridge is Hayward CX1280XRE.

Does this filter require backwashing?

No. The W3C5030 is a cartridge filter and does not require backwashing. Remove and rinse the cartridges when cleaning is needed.

Is this a sand or DE filter?

No. This is a cartridge filter. It does not use sand or DE powder.

How many cartridges are inside?

This model uses four cartridge elements in a Quad-Cluster configuration.

What is the flow rate?

The Hayward W3C5030 is commonly listed with a 150 GPM design flow rate.

What plumbing size does this filter use?

The PVC union coupling connection accepts 2" or 2-1/2" piping, with 2" full-flow internal plumbing.

Is this filter for in-ground pools?

Yes. The Hayward W3C5030 is designed for residential in-ground pool and pool/spa applications.

Does it include a pressure gauge?

Yes. A pressure gauge is included.

Does this filter need a multiport valve?

No. Cartridge filters do not use a multiport valve. Water flows directly through the filter and the cartridges are removed and rinsed for cleaning.