Product Overview The Hayward Perflex 20 sq ft Modular Filter with Clamp W3EC40AC is an extended-cycle DE filter designed to deliver clear, sparkling pool water with simple, efficient operation. Built with Hayward’s patented Flex-Tube design, this filter uses diatomaceous earth to capture fine particles and help maintain excellent water clarity. Unlike traditional backwash DE filters, the Perflex system does not require backwashing. Instead, the exclusive bump handle activates the Flex-Tubes, helping remove dirt and DE powder from the tube surfaces so fresh filtering surfaces can form. This helps extend filter cycles, reduce water waste, and simplify maintenance. The W3EC40AC includes an easy-access clamp assembly, making service access more convenient compared with older bolt-style designs. Hayward lists this model with 20 sq. ft. effective filtration area, 40 GPM design flow rate, 4 lb DE capacity, and 26.5" x 16" x 16" product dimensions. Ideal For Above-ground swimming poolsCompatible in-ground pool applicationsPool owners looking for DE filtration without backwashingReplacement for Hayward EC40AC / W3EC40AC filter systemsCustomers wanting fine-particle water claritySystems requiring a compact 20 sq. ft. DE filterPool owners who prefer clamp-style service access Key Features 20 sq. ft. DE Filtration Area The 20 square foot effective filtration area provides dependable dirt and debris capture for residential pool systems. Patented Flex-Tube Design Hayward’s Flex-Tube system works with DE powder to create fresh filtering surfaces during the cleaning cycle, supporting clear water and extended filter operation. No Backwashing Required The Perflex extended-cycle design provides DE filtration without traditional backwashing, helping conserve water and simplify pool maintenance. Easy-Access Clamp Assembly The clamp design provides easier access to the internal filter components for cleaning and service. Exclusive Bump Handle The integrated bump handle activates the Flex-Tubes, helping purge dirt and used DE powder from the tube surfaces so the filter can continue operating efficiently. Superior DE Water Clarity Diatomaceous earth filtration helps remove fine particles from pool water for a clean, polished appearance. Self-Venting Design The filter is designed to expel air through the filtered water returning to the pool. Uniform DE Coating The combination diffuser and lower mixing chamber help produce an even coating of DE on the Flex-Tubes for consistent filtration performance. Compact Modular Design The compact 16" x 16" footprint makes this filter a practical option for many above-ground pool equipment areas. Benefits The Hayward W3EC40AC is a strong choice for pool owners who want the clarity of DE filtration with easier maintenance than traditional backwash systems. Its extended-cycle operation helps reduce water waste, while the bump handle makes routine cleaning simple without opening the filter every time. With its 20 sq. ft. filtration area, 4 lb DE charge, 40 GPM design flow rate, and easy-access clamp assembly, this model is a practical solution for residential pool systems when properly matched with the pump, plumbing, and pool size. Specifications Specification Details Brand Hayward Series Perflex Model W3EC40AC Alternate Model EC40AC SKU W3EC40AC UPC / Barcode 610377386975 Product Type DE pool filter Filter Type DE / Diatomaceous Earth Filter Style Extended-cycle modular filter with clamp Effective Filtration Area 20 sq. ft. DE Required 4 lbs. Design Flow Rate 40 GPM Public Design Flow Rate 40 GPM Residential Design Flow Rate 40 GPM 8-Hour Turnover 19,200 gallons 10-Hour Turnover 24,000 gallons Number of Filter Elements 1 Valve Included N/A Backwashing Required No Cleaning Method Bump handle Flex-Tube cleaning Filter Media Pool-grade diatomaceous earth Pool Type Above-ground and in-ground Pressure Gauge Included No Product Dimensions 26.5" H x 16" L x 16" W Product Height 26.5" Product Length 16" Product Width 16" Product Weight 26 lbs. Shipping Dimensions 32.5" x 16.2" x 19.9" Shipping Weight 29 lbs. Parts Warranty 1-Year Manufacturer Parts Warranty DE Included No What’s Included Hayward W3EC40AC Perflex 20 sq. ft. DE filterFlex-Tube filter assemblyBump handle mechanismEasy-access clamp assemblyFilter tank and base assemblyInternal diffuser / lower mixing chamber components Pool-grade DE powder is not included.Pressure gauge is listed by Hayward as not included for this model.Pump, hoses, fittings, and plumbing accessories are not included unless supplied separately by the seller. Customer-Facing Q&A Is this a cartridge filter? No. The Hayward W3EC40AC is a DE filter, not a cartridge filter. It uses diatomaceous earth powder with Hayward’s Flex-Tube filtration system. Does this filter require backwashing? No. The Perflex W3EC40AC is designed for no-backwash operation. The bump handle helps clean the Flex-Tubes and redistribute the DE powder. How much DE powder does this filter need? This filter requires 4 lbs. of pool-grade diatomaceous earth. Is DE powder included? No. DE powder must be purchased separately. What is the flow rate? The Hayward W3EC40AC is listed with a 40 GPM design flow rate. Does this model include a clamp? Yes. This version is the 20 sq. ft. Perflex model with clamp and includes an easy-access clamp assembly. Does this filter include a pressure gauge? Hayward lists the W3EC40AC as pressure gauge not included. What type of pool is this filter for? Hayward lists this model for above-ground and in-ground pool applications when properly matched with the pump, plumbing, and pool requirements. What does the bump handle do? The bump handle activates the Flex-Tubes, helping remove dirt and DE powder from the tube surfaces so fresh filtering surfaces can form. What makes Perflex different from standard DE filters? Perflex filters use Hayward’s patented Flex-Tube system and bump handle cleaning method, allowing extended filter cycles without traditional backwashing.
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