Hayward PerFlex Extended-Cycle D.E. Pool Filter 6 lb
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The Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A is a 27 sq ft extended-cycle D.E. pool filter. Patented Flex-Tube design cleans without backwashing. 6 lbs D.E. capacity, 67 GPM max flow. Self-venting, integral check valve, easy-access clamp assembly. Professional installation required for warranty validation. 1 year warranty.
- SKU: W3EC65A
- 1 year warranty
- 27 sq ft extended-cycle D.E. pool filter
- Patented Flex-Tube design cleans without backwashing; no backwash valve or drain line required
- 6 lbs D.E. capacity; 67 GPM max flow rate
- Removes particles as small as 2 microns the first time through
- Flex-Tubes instantly clean themselves via the bump handle; D.E. is reused rather than discharged
- Self-venting design automatically expels air from the system
- Integral check valve prevents system backflow whenever pump is off
- Combination pressure gauge and threaded inspection/service port
- Easy-access clamp assembly for service
- Heavy-duty glass-filled PPL tank; corrosion-free
- For in-ground and above ground pools
- Replaces EC65A (direct replacement)
Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A Extended-Cycle D.E. Pool Filter: No Backwash, No Grid Teardown
The PerFlex W3EC65A delivers 2-micron D.E. filtration without the maintenance overhead of a conventional grid-based D.E. filter. Instead of rigid grid panels that need backwashing, fresh D.E. after every cleaning, and periodic acid washing, the PerFlex uses patented Flex-Tubes that clean themselves via a bump handle. When pressure rises, you stop the pump, stroke the bump handle, and restart. The Flex-Tubes compress and release, shedding the spent D.E. cake, which then redistributes and recoats the tubes. No valve, no drain line, no fresh D.E. needed after each cleaning. A single 6 lb charge lasts significantly longer than in a conventional D.E. filter because the powder is reused rather than flushed away.
How the PerFlex Bump-to-Clean Cycle Works
When operating 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. The Flex-Tubes flex and compress, dislodging the loaded D.E. cake. Dirty and clean D.E. mix together and recoat the tube surfaces. Restart the pump. In most cases pressure returns near baseline and the existing D.E. charge continues filtering without any addition of fresh powder. This cycle can be repeated many times before a full sump drain is needed, and a full D.E. recharge is only required when bumping and draining no longer restore acceptable pressure.
Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A D.E. Filter Specifications
Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A D.E. Pool Filter Frequently Asked Questions
How is the PerFlex different from a conventional D.E. filter?
Conventional D.E. filters coat rigid grid panels that must be backwashed to clean, require fresh D.E. after each backwash, need a multiport valve and dedicated drain line, and require periodic grid acid washing. The PerFlex uses Flex-Tubes that self-clean through the bump mechanism. Spent D.E. is redistributed and reused rather than flushed away, so no backwash valve, drain line, or grid acid washing is needed. Water clarity is the same; the maintenance difference is significant.
How long does a D.E. charge last?
Significantly longer than in a conventional D.E. filter. Because D.E. is reused through the bump cycle rather than discharged and replaced, a single 6 lb charge can run for several months depending on pool size, bather load, and debris conditions. Most PerFlex owners add a full D.E. recharge only one to three times per season rather than after every cleaning.
What D.E. powder do I use?
Standard pool-grade diatomaceous earth. Do not use food-grade, pest-control, or industrial D.E. products; those are formulated differently and are not appropriate for pool water contact. Perlite is also compatible with the Flex-Tube design as a silica-free alternative.
D.E. is appearing in my pool. What does that mean?
D.E. returning to the pool through the return fittings means one or more Flex-Tube elements has a hole or seam failure allowing powder to bypass the filter media. Stop the pump immediately, drain the tank, remove the tube assembly, and inspect each element individually. Replace any tube showing a breach before restarting.
Is this a direct replacement for the EC65A?
Yes. W3EC65A is the direct replacement for EC65A with the same specifications and Flex-Tube element design.