What is this thing? It's leaking and runs between the filter and the heater

[ideal2545]

Hi Guys,

I'm new to all this and trying to figure out what this is, it's leaking a decent ammount, looks like from the top so maybe its an o-ring, but before I take everything apart i'd like to figure out what it is first to either get replacement parts or just figure out if im going to simply cut it out!

The top of it has the months listed in a circle. I've attached it, thank you everyone!

Thank you!
Jon

 

[ajw22]

Looks like it can be a Nature2 Mineral Cartridge. Remove it if you can.

 

[zea3]

Yep, its an old Nature 2 Mineral Cartridge system, an expensive and unnecessary system of pool care. Cut it out.