Answer
Apr 09, 2026 - 11:17 AM
Plumbing in a new cartridge filter is usually just matter of cutting and gluing section of the PVC so that the pipes are routed to the new locations of the filter's inlet / outlet. In contrast to sand filters, cartridge filters do not include a multiport valve (since you don't backwash the filter anymore), so the location of the new filter's inlet / outlet will probably be substantially different than where the sand filter's multiport valve's inlet / outlet is. You may want to still consider the use of a 3-way valve if you want to bypass your filter during maintenance or route the water to waste for maintenance.
The typical answer is yes, it’s a common thing to do. Mostly you'll expect some plumbing work.
Since they offer finer filtration, replacing a sand filter with a cartridge filter is a great move for water clarity. How "easy" is is will depend on your comfort with PVC plumbing of course.
Here are good things to consider.
-
New plumbing layout: Unlike sand filters, cartridge filters don't use a multiport valve. This means your inlet and outlet pipes will be in different positions than your old setup. You will need to cut your existing PVC and glue in new sections to meet the new ports.
-
Decide on use of a new valve: Since you won't be backwashing anymore, you lose the "Waste" setting of the sand filter's multiport valve. Its often beneficial to install a 3-way diverter valve which would allow you to bypass the filter or pump water out of the pool during heavy cleaning.
-
Salt cell placement: Since you’re also replacing your Hayward salt chlorinator, remember that the salt cell must be installed last in the plumbing line (after the filter). This protects your new filter from high chlorine levels.
-
Size matters: Since you're picking out a new filter, be sure to get one with plenty of capacity (more is better) so you need infrequent filter cleanings (to minimize filter cleanings, consider adding a pre-filter at this point - easy upgrade!)
Add New Comment