Hayward Perflex D.E. Above Ground Pool Filter with Clamp 4 lb
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The Hayward Perflex W3EC40AC is a 20 sq ft extended-cycle D.E. pool filter for above-ground pools. Patented Flex-Tube design cleans without backwashing. 4 lbs D.E. capacity, 40 GPM max flow, 2-micron filtration. Clamp assembly included. 1 year warranty.
Hayward Perflex W3EC40AC 20 Sq Ft Above-Ground D.E. Filter: Extended-Cycle Filtration Without Backwashing
The Perflex W3EC40AC is the entry-level above-ground PerFlex model, providing 2-micron D.E. filtration for above-ground pools without a backwash valve, drain line, or grid teardown. The patented Flex-Tube design cleans through a bump handle instead of backwashing — stop the pump, stroke the handle eight times, and restart. The existing 4 lb D.E. charge redistributes and recoats the Flex-Tubes, restoring filtration without discharging media or wasting treated pool water.
The clamp assembly allows quick access to the filter interior without tools. If you also need a pump, the W3EC40C92S bundles this same filter with a 1 HP PowerFlo Matrix pump. For more filter area at the same above-ground scale, the W3EC50AC (25 sq ft, 50 GPM) is the step up.
Hayward W3EC40AC Perflex D.E. Filter Key Features
- Patented Flex-Tube design - Bump-to-clean mechanism reuses D.E. powder rather than flushing it, extending filter cycles and eliminating the need for a backwash valve or drain line.
- 2-micron filtration - Removes particles significantly finer than sand or cartridge filters, capturing dust, pollen, and algae spores on the first pass.
- Clamp assembly - Tool-free access to the filter interior for inspection, D.E. recharge, and Flex-Tube servicing.
- Self-venting design - Automatically expels air from the system through the filtered water returning to the pool.
- Integral check valve - Prevents system backflow whenever the pump is off, protecting D.E. coating on the Flex-Tubes.
- Combination pressure gauge and service port - Easy to read, easy to remove when the filter needs servicing.
- Heavy-duty glass-filled PPL tank - Corrosion-free construction for outdoor above-ground pool installations.
Hayward W3EC40AC Perflex D.E. Filter Specifications
Hayward Perflex D.E. Filter Lineup
Above-Ground Perflex D.E. Filters
| Product | Filter Area | D.E. Charge | Flow Rate | Pump |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward Perflex D.E. Filter with Clamp 4 lb (this model) | 20 sq ft | 4 lbs | 40 GPM | Filter only |
| Hayward Perflex D.E. Filter System 4 lb 1 HP Pump | 20 sq ft | 4 lbs | 40 GPM | 1 HP PowerFlo Matrix |
| Hayward Perflex D.E. Filter with Clamp 5 lb | 25 sq ft | 5 lbs | 50 GPM | Filter only |
| Hayward Perflex D.E. Filter System 5 lb 1.5 HP Pump | 25 sq ft | 5 lbs | 50 GPM | 1.5 HP PowerFlo Matrix |
In-Ground Perflex D.E. Filters
| Product | Filter Area | D.E. Charge | Flow Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward PerFlex 27 Sq Ft D.E. Filter | 27 sq ft | 6 lbs | 67 GPM |
| Hayward PerFlex 40 Sq Ft D.E. Filter | 40 sq ft | 7 lbs | 80 GPM |
Hayward W3EC40AC Perflex D.E. Filter Frequently Asked Questions
Does the W3EC40AC include D.E. powder?
No. 4 lbs of pool-grade diatomaceous earth must be purchased separately. Add D.E. through the skimmer with the pump running after initial setup. Do not use food-grade, pest-control, or industrial D.E. Perlite is a compatible silica-free alternative.
What is the bump-to-clean process?
When pressure rises 10 to 12 PSI above the clean baseline, stop the pump, push the bump handle down slowly then up briskly, repeat 8 times, and restart. The Flex-Tubes compress and release, redistributing the D.E. cake so it recoats the tube surfaces. No water is discharged and no fresh D.E. is needed in most cases.
Is this filter-only, or does it include a pump?
Filter only. If you need a matched pump, the W3EC40C92S pairs this same filter with a 1 HP PowerFlo Matrix pump.
How does D.E. filtration compare to sand or cartridge?
D.E. filters to 2 microns — significantly finer than sand (20-40 microns) or most cartridge filters (10-15 microns). The tradeoff is that D.E. requires periodic recharging and the Flex-Tubes need occasional inspection and eventual replacement. The PerFlex bump design substantially reduces the frequency of full D.E. recharges compared to a conventional D.E. filter.