Hayward
Hayward W3C3030 SwimClear 325 Sq. Ft. Cartridge Pool Filter | C3030
Hayward W3C3030 SwimClear 325 Sq. Ft. Cartridge Pool Filter | C3030
Hayward W3C3030 SwimClear 325 Sq. Ft. Cartridge Pool Filter
High-capacity multi-element cartridge filtration for inground pools and pool/spa combinations, delivering excellent water clarity, efficient hydraulic performance, and simplified maintenance without routine backwashing.
The Hayward W3C3030 SwimClear 325 sq. ft. cartridge filter is a high-capacity filtration system designed for residential inground swimming pools, pool/spa combinations, and compatible inground spa applications. Its four-element Quad-Cluster cartridge configuration provides a large 325 square feet of effective filtration area, allowing the filter to capture dirt and debris while maintaining efficient water flow through the circulation system.
Unlike sand and D.E. filters that typically require backwashing, the SwimClear uses cleanable, reusable reinforced polyester cartridge elements. When servicing is required, the cartridges can be removed from the tank, cleaned, and reinstalled. This eliminates routine backwashing and helps reduce unnecessary pool water loss during filter maintenance.
Why Choose the Hayward W3C3030 SwimClear?
- Large 325 sq. ft. effective filtration area for high dirt-holding capacity
- Four reusable reinforced polyester cartridge elements
- Top-manifold design promotes efficient flow through all cartridge elements
- No routine backwashing required
- Heavy-duty glass-reinforced copolymer filter tank
- One-piece flange clamp provides convenient access to internal components
- High-capacity manual air relief valve with quarter-turn operation
- 2-inch and 2-1/2-inch union connection capability for plumbing flexibility
- Full-size 1-1/2-inch integral drain simplifies tank draining and flushing
- Designed specifically for inground swimming pool applications
The W3C3030 is the complete Hayward SwimClear filter, not an empty replacement tank. The filter uses four cartridge elements as part of its Quad-Cluster filtration system. A circulation pump is not included and must be properly sized to the pool and hydraulic system.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Hayward |
|---|---|
| Series | SwimClear Multi-Element |
| Model / SKU | W3C3030 |
| Base Model | C3030 |
| Filter Type | Multi-Element Cartridge Filter |
| Pool Type | Inground |
| Effective Filtration Area | 325 sq. ft. |
| Number of Filter Elements | 4 |
| Filter Element Material | Reinforced Polyester |
| Public Design Flow Rate | 122 GPM |
| 8-Hour Turnover | 58,560 gallons |
| 10-Hour Turnover | 73,200 gallons |
| Plumbing Connections | Accepts 2-inch or 2-1/2-inch piping |
| Drain Port | 1-1/2 inch |
| Pressure Gauge | Included |
| Tank Construction | Glass-reinforced copolymer |
| Product Dimensions | 34.5" H x 24" W x 24" L |
| Product Weight | 60 lbs. |
| Shipping Dimensions | 35.7" x 24.6" x 23.1" |
| Shipping Weight | 75 lbs. |
How the SwimClear W3C3030 Works
Pool water enters the SwimClear filter and is distributed around the four cartridge elements. Dirt and debris are captured by the reinforced polyester filter media while filtered water travels through the cartridge cores and top manifold before returning to the pool.
The W3C3030's 325 sq. ft. filtration area provides substantial media surface area, which helps provide high dirt-holding capacity and extended periods between cartridge cleanings compared with smaller cartridge filters under similar operating conditions.
Cartridge Filter vs. Sand Filter
A cartridge filter such as the Hayward W3C3030 does not require filter sand and does not use a traditional backwash cycle. Instead, debris is captured directly by the cartridge media. When the filter pressure rises sufficiently above the clean starting pressure, the cartridges are removed and cleaned.
This design can be especially attractive for pool owners who want to avoid the water loss associated with routine backwashing while maintaining a large amount of filtration surface area.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The SwimClear's one-piece clamp allows the upper tank section to be removed without disturbing the filter's plumbing connections. Once opened, the top manifold is removed and the four cartridge elements can be lifted from the tank for cleaning.
Hayward recommends monitoring the pressure gauge and establishing the filter's normal clean starting pressure. Cartridge cleaning is generally required when filter pressure rises approximately 7 to 10 PSI above the clean starting pressure, or when system flow has noticeably decreased.
Always shut down the circulation system, isolate the filter from water flow, and completely relieve internal pressure before opening or servicing any pool filter.
Plumbing & Installation
The W3C3030 uses Hayward union connections that accommodate 2-inch or 2-1/2-inch piping, providing flexibility when integrating the filter into a properly designed equipment pad.
On the SwimClear configuration, pump discharge connects to the lower filter inlet and the upper filter outlet connects to the pool return plumbing. The unit should be installed on a level, rigid base in an accessible, well-drained location with adequate service clearance for removal of the filter cartridges.
Proper filter and pump sizing depends on the pool volume, plumbing size, pump output, equipment configuration, and total system hydraulics. Installation and service should be performed in accordance with Hayward's instructions and applicable local codes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the filtration area of the Hayward W3C3030?
The W3C3030 provides 325 square feet of effective cartridge filtration area.
How many cartridges does the W3C3030 use?
It uses four reinforced polyester cartridge elements arranged in Hayward's
Quad-Cluster configuration.
Does the Hayward W3C3030 require backwashing?
No. The cartridge elements are removed and cleaned when maintenance is required,
eliminating the routine backwashing process used by traditional sand and D.E. filters.
What is the flow rate of the W3C3030?
Hayward lists a public design flow rate of 122 GPM for the 325 sq. ft. C3030/W3C3030.
Actual system flow depends on the pump, plumbing, valves, heater, sanitizing equipment,
and overall hydraulic resistance of the pool system.
Is W3C3030 the same size as C3030?
W3C3030 is Hayward's Open Line SKU for the 325 sq. ft. SwimClear configuration and
corresponds to the C3030 model family.
Is this filter for above-ground or inground pools?
The W3C3030 is designed for inground pool applications.
What size plumbing can be connected to the W3C3030?
Its union connection design accommodates 2-inch or 2-1/2-inch plumbing.
Does the W3C3030 include a pump?
No. This listing is for the Hayward SwimClear cartridge filter assembly. The
circulation pump and other equipment-pad components are separate.
How do I know whether the W3C3030 is properly sized for my pool?
Filter sizing should consider pool volume, desired turnover, pump flow, plumbing,
and total system hydraulics rather than pool dimensions alone. If replacing an
existing filter, comparing the current filter's size, flow requirements, plumbing
configuration, and equipment pad clearances can help determine the correct replacement.
Need Help Confirming the Right Hayward Filter?
Not sure whether the Hayward W3C3030 is the right size for your pool or a suitable replacement for your existing filter? Aqua Terra Backyard can help compare your current filter model, pump, plumbing size, and pool application to help identify the correct equipment before you order.
