First time replacing my filter. The one in there is a Unicel C-8412. When I search online to purchase a new one, I see other cheaper brands. The unicel one goes for about $70. Is this normal/good price? Pleatco seems to be almost half.
First time replacing filter - does brand matter (much)?
- Thread starter ABC12
- Start date
LoneWolfArcher
Bronze Supporter
In my experience, you get what you pay for. You've got a pool that would cost $20k-30k, don't try to save a few pennies here or there. You may live to regret it.
There's nothing wrong with Pleatco filters. I have a Unicel and a Pleatco that I swap out, and it seems to me that the Pleatco may be a little finer than the Unicel. They're both about 3 years old and both are holding up fine.
LoneWolfArcher
Bronze Supporter
There you go, OP! That's why I love this site. Real world experience trumps all else.
In general though I stand by my "don't skimp". Tried to do my pool (1st year in house with the pool) on the cheap last year...paid for it dearly. Now I am willing to spend whatever it takes on the right methods. Liquid chlorine is more expensive....but well worth the extra cost!
I completely agree, but I know in life there are some things that you need good quality items and it's worth every penny and some places you can save a couple bucks with similar outcomes.
I was told to replace the filters about every 1-2 years. I try to rinse them with a hose about every 3-4 months. How do you know when a replacement is needed?
- Jul 4, 2012
- 749
- Pool Size
- 21000
- Surface
- Vinyl
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- CircuPool RJ-60 Plus
I once bought an off brand new cartridge filter from Amazon as mine had a hole. My water was clear, but not TFP clear so I went back to the Pleatco from the pool store and I got back to TFP clear in no time.
Some things it is better to go cheap on (like solar covers) but I think you take your chances with this. Not sure if there are good/accurate specs that you can confirm how small it filters before buying?
It has probably been 3 years or so since I last replaced the cartridge but my season is not nearly as long as yours. I don't know when you would need to replace outside of the obvious such as the aforementioned hole.
Some things it is better to go cheap on (like solar covers) but I think you take your chances with this. Not sure if there are good/accurate specs that you can confirm how small it filters before buying?
It has probably been 3 years or so since I last replaced the cartridge but my season is not nearly as long as yours. I don't know when you would need to replace outside of the obvious such as the aforementioned hole.
I don't replace them until they're showing pretty significant signs or wear or the fabric is compromised.
I like Pleatco but don't trust amazon for the right one..I got the worng one and intheswim told me " too bad, you can pay return shipping" but amazon stepped in and told UPS we decline shipment..
What made me mad was I ordered them at 11pm and when double checked realized it was wrong and cancelled the order..Those bozo's shipped anyway.
lesson learned check on pleatco's website to verify number
What made me mad was I ordered them at 11pm and when double checked realized it was wrong and cancelled the order..Those bozo's shipped anyway.
lesson learned check on pleatco's website to verify number