Finding a reliable pool filter is essential for maintaining crystal-clear water. This guide reviews top cartridge filters that fit standard CCP420/420-sq-ft systems and beyond, highlighting performance, compatibility, and value. Learn which options deliver strong filtration, easy maintenance, and durable materials to keep your pool sparkling all season.
Overview of selected products:
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit | Filter Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOREAD CCP420 Filter Cartridge | TOREAD | NSF/ANSI 50 certified; reliable 4×105 sq.ft design | 4×105 sq.ft |
| Optimum Pool Technologies 4-Pack | Optimum Pool Technologies | Made in USA with 100% Reemay filtration media | 4×105 sq.ft (per cartridge) |
| Cryspool 4×105 Sq. Ft Filter Pack | Cryspool | Advanced trilobal fiber material for longer life | 4×105 sq.ft |
| Swimara CCP420 5oz Cartridges (4-Pack) | Swimara | Premium 5oz media for higher filtration density | 4×105 sq.ft |
| OZXC Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge | OZXC | High-flow, 150 GPM capacity with robust construction | 520 sq.ft |
TOREAD CCP420 Filter Cartridge
TOREAD’s CCP420 replacement is designed for Pentair CCP420 and similar 4×105 sq.ft systems. It carries NSF/ANSI 50 certification, ensuring materials meet safety standards for clean water. The cartridge measures 26 inches long with a 7-inch outside diameter and top/bottom openings of 3 inches, aligning with common filter housings. Filtration fabric uses a 4-ounce trilobal construction for solid particle capture and durable operation. This model emphasizes compatibility with multiple brands, making it a flexible replacement option for cloud-free water.
Key features include NSF/ANSI 50 certification for safe materials, a 26″ length and 7″ OD for a compatible fit, and a 4×105 sq.ft filtration area. The design aims to balance strong filtration with easy maintenance, helping reduce cloudiness and keep pool water clear. Note that this is a compatible spare part, with manufacturers’ names used for reference.
Optimum Pool Technologies Pool Filter Cartridges (4-Pack)
These Optimum Pool Technologies cartridges are made in the USA using 100% Reemay filtration media, specifically engineered for durability and cleanability. They’re designed as compatible replacements for Pentair CCP420, Waterway Crystal Water 425, and other 4×105 sq.ft models. Each cartridge features a 3″ top/bottom connection with a 7″ outer diameter and a length around 26 inches. The included support bands around each element help maintain pleat integrity during operating cycles, contributing to consistent filtration over time.
Features emphasize compatibility across multiple models, a robust 26-1/16″ length, and 7″ OD. The use of Reemay fibers supports efficient particle capture and easier cleaning during maintenance. These cartridges are positioned as a cost-effective option for maintaining crystal-clear water while supporting reliable flow through the filter system.
Cryspool 4×105 Sq. Ft Filter Cartridges
Cryspool’s 4×105 sq.ft pack is engineered to fit CCP420 and related Clear Plus 420 equivalents. The cartridges measure 26-1/16″ in length with a 7″ outer diameter, and feature a 3″ top and bottom openings for straightforward installation. The brand highlights trilobal fiber technology to improve filtration efficiency and extend cartridge life, delivering clearer water by trapping more microscopic particles. This option emphasizes compatibility with a broad range of models and reference numbers to ensure accurate cross-compatibility.
Material design focuses on higher-capacity filtration and longer service life, reducing the frequency of replacements. Cryspool markets this pack as a dependable choice for maintaining bright, crystal-clear water in residential pools using standard cartridge filters.
Swimara CCP420 Pool Filter Cartridges (4-Pack)
Swimara’s 4-pack features 5-ounce heavy-duty media for higher fiber density and stronger pleat integrity, improving filtration down to roughly 10 microns. Designed as a replacement for Pentair OEM 178584, R173576, and Pleatco PCC105, the Swimara cartridges cross-reference with Unicel C-7471 and Filbur FC-1977. They are sized to fit standard CCP420 housings with a 26-1/16″ length and 7″ outer diameter, along with 3″ top and bottom openings. This configuration aims to offer enhanced filtration performance while maintaining compatibility across multiple brands.
With premium media and a focus on longevity, these cartridges are positioned to help reduce cloudiness and maintain clearer water, especially in pools with high particulate loads. The Swimara option is suitable for households seeking reliable cross-brand replacements without compromising filtration quality.
OZXC Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter
OZXC’s Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge is designed for 520 sq.ft filtration capacity, supporting high-volume pool systems with flows up to 150 GPM. It’s built to pair with diatomaceous earth-based filtration processes, aiding in capturing fine particles and maintaining a crystal-clear pool. The cartridge’s construction emphasizes ease of use and low maintenance, with a housing designed for straightforward cleaning and reversal of flow for backwashing when necessary.
Key attributes include compatibility with a broad range of CCP420-style systems, a large 520 sq.ft equivalent area, and a high GPM rating. This option targets users who need strong hydraulic performance while keeping water clarity a priority, especially in saltwater or heavy-use environments.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
When selecting a crystal-clear pool filter cartridge, consider these factors to ensure you choose a model that meets your needs:
- Compatibility: Verify the model fits your filter housing’s size, top/bottom opening dimensions, and overall length. CCP420 and 4×105 sq.ft configurations are common, but always double-check measurements.
- Filtration media: Look for trilobal spunbond polyester or similar high-quality media for durable filtration and longer service life. Heavier media often delivers finer particle capture.
- Certification and safety: NSF/ANSI 50 certification indicates materials meet safety and performance standards for pool use. This is a good indicator of reliability.
- Filtration area: Larger filtration areas (e.g., 4×105 sq.ft) typically support longer intervals between cleanings and better clarity in dirty water.
- Durability and warranty: Consider brands that emphasize robust pleats, reinforced end caps, and long lifespan, especially in high-flow systems.
- Cross-brand compatibility: Many brands cross-reference part numbers (e.g., PCC105, 178584, C-7471). If you’re replacing an OEM part, ensure the cartridge is listed as compatible.
- Maintenance: Evaluate ease of cleaning and backwashing options. Cartridges with sturdy media and consistent pleat structure resist collapse during use.
- Cost-to-value: Compare price per usable square foot and expected service life to determine overall value, rather than just upfront cost.
For pools with cloudy water, consider pairing a high-quality clarifier with your filter cartridge. A clarifier helps join fine particles so the filter can capture them more effectively, enhancing overall water clarity without forcing more frequent cartridge changes.
In summary, the options reviewed provide a range of compatibility, filtration density, and durability to support crystal-clear water. Whether you prioritize certified materials, US-made media, or cross-brand compatibility, there are cartridge choices that align with common CCP420-type systems and other 4×105 sq.ft configurations. Always confirm fit and performance with your filter housing and pool setup to achieve optimal clarity.