Product Overview

The Pentair Clean & Clear® Cartridge Filter EC-160318 is a high-performance, single-cartridge filtration system designed to deliver crystal-clear water with minimal maintenance for residential in-ground swimming pools and spas. Featuring 200 square feet of filtration area and a maximum flow rate of 150 GPM, this filter provides exceptional dirt-holding capacity while eliminating the need for backwashing, saving thousands of gallons of water each year.

Constructed with a fiberglass-reinforced, chemical-resistant polypropylene tank, the Clean & Clear filter is built to withstand years of outdoor exposure and demanding pool environments. Its compact footprint makes it an excellent choice for new pool installations or equipment pad upgrades where space is limited.

Unlike sand or D.E. filters, the Clean & Clear uses a single, high-capacity cartridge that captures fine debris while maintaining excellent hydraulic efficiency. Routine maintenance is quick and simple—remove the clamp, lift out the cartridge, rinse it with a garden hose, and reinstall. No special tools or backwashing equipment are required.

Certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 50, the EC-160318 is suitable for residential pools and approved commercial applications where local codes permit. It is ideal for pools using variable-speed pumps, salt chlorinators, heaters, and automation systems.

Key Features

Genuine Pentair Clean & Clear® cartridge filter

200 square feet of filtration area

Single high-capacity cartridge design

Maximum flow rate of 150 GPM

No backwashing required

Fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene tank

Corrosion and chemical-resistant construction

Easy-access clamp ring for quick servicing

Coreless cartridge for easier cleaning

2-inch plumbing connections with included unions

Compact footprint for smaller equipment pads

NSF/ANSI 50 certified

Compatible with variable-speed pumps and salt systems

Benefits

The Clean & Clear 200 is designed to provide outstanding water clarity while minimizing maintenance. Its large cartridge surface area allows the filter to trap more dirt before cleaning is required, reducing maintenance intervals throughout the swimming season.

Because there is no backwashing, valuable heated and chemically balanced water stays in the pool, reducing water usage and chemical costs. The efficient hydraulic design also creates low resistance to water flow, helping variable-speed pumps operate more efficiently.

The durable tank and stainless-steel clamp system make servicing straightforward, while the single cartridge eliminates the complexity of multiple-element filter assemblies.

Specifications

Warranty & Compatibility

Installation Information

Install the filter on a level equipment pad with adequate clearance above the tank to remove the cartridge for routine maintenance. Connect the filter using the included 2-inch union fittings and ensure the flow direction matches the plumbing layout.

Before startup, fill the system with water, open the manual air-relief valve, and allow all trapped air to escape before placing the filter into normal operation. Clean the cartridge whenever the filter pressure rises approximately 8–10 PSI above the clean starting pressure.

Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper plumbing, hydraulic performance, and compliance with local building and electrical codes.

Confirm Before Ordering

Please verify the following before purchasing:

• Your pool requires approximately 200 square feet of filtration.
• Your circulation system does not exceed 150 GPM.
• You have sufficient vertical clearance to remove the cartridge.
• Your plumbing is compatible with 2-inch union connections.
• You want a cartridge filter that does not require backwashing.
• You need Pentair model EC-160318.

Warranty Information

The Pentair Clean & Clear EC-160318 is covered by Pentair's limited manufacturer warranty when purchased and installed according to Pentair requirements. Warranty coverage may require professional installation and proof of purchase.

Warranty does not cover freeze damage, chemical abuse, improper installation, operation above rated pressure, misuse, or damage resulting from inadequate winterization.

Customer-Facing Q&A

Q: Does this filter require backwashing?
A: No. The Clean & Clear cartridge filter does not require backwashing. Simply remove and rinse the cartridge when cleaning is needed.

Q: What replacement cartridge does it use?
A: It uses the genuine Pentair R173217 200-square-foot replacement cartridge.

Q: Is this compatible with saltwater pools?
A: Yes. The corrosion-resistant tank is compatible with both traditional chlorine and saltwater pool systems.

Q: Can this be used with a variable-speed pump?
A: Yes. The low-restriction hydraulic design makes it an excellent choice for modern variable-speed pool pumps.