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

Q: Does this filter include the cartridges?
A: Yes. The Hayward W3C5030 includes the four cartridge elements required for operation.

Q: What replacement cartridges does this filter use?
A: The complete replacement cartridge pack is Hayward CX1280XREPAK4. The individual replacement cartridge is Hayward CX1280XRE.

Q: Does this filter require backwashing?
A: No. The W3C5030 is a cartridge filter and does not require backwashing. Remove and rinse the cartridges when cleaning is needed.

Q: Is this a sand or DE filter?
A: No. This is a cartridge filter. It does not use sand or DE powder.

Q: How many cartridges are inside?
A: This model uses four cartridge elements in a Quad-Cluster configuration.

Q: What is the flow rate?
A: The Hayward W3C5030 is commonly listed with a 150 GPM design flow rate.

Q: What plumbing size does this filter use?
A: The PVC union coupling connection accepts 2" or 2-1/2" piping, with 2" full-flow internal plumbing.

Q: Is this filter for in-ground pools?
A: Yes. The Hayward W3C5030 is designed for residential in-ground pool and pool/spa applications.

Q: Does it include a pressure gauge?
A: Yes. A pressure gauge is included.

Q: Does this filter need a multiport valve?
A: No. Cartridge filters do not use a multiport valve. Water flows directly through the filter and the cartridges are removed and rinsed for cleaning.