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Pool Filters Review

Hayward ProGrid DE Filter Review

A DE filter that polishes water to the finest clarity of any filter type. The choice for an owner who wants the clearest possible pool.

★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 WETYR Pools editorial review
Hayward · Diatomaceous earth pool filter

The verdict in brief

The Hayward ProGrid is a diatomaceous earth, or DE, filter, and DE filters polish pool water to the finest clarity of the three filter types. For the owner who wants the clearest, most brilliant water possible, and a Hayward-equipped pool in particular, the ProGrid is a strong choice.

Best for: Owners who want the finest possible water clarity and are willing to service a DE filter.

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Overview

A DE filter works differently from cartridge and sand filters. Internal grids are coated with diatomaceous earth, a fine natural powder, and water is forced through that coating, which traps even very small particles. The result is the finest filtration of any filter type, water polished to a clarity cartridge and sand filters cannot quite match.

The Hayward ProGrid is a well-regarded DE filter built on this principle, with a durable tank and grid assembly, backed by the Hayward name and service network. On a Hayward equipment pad it works as part of a coordinated system.

Who it is for

The ProGrid is for the owner who wants the clearest possible water and considers that worth a little more involvement. DE filtration genuinely produces a more brilliant clarity, and for an owner who notices and values that, a DE filter is the choice.

It is a natural fit on a Hayward-equipped pool, integrating into a single-brand pad. It is less aimed at the owner who wants the simplest, lowest-maintenance filter; for them a sand or cartridge filter is easier to live with. The ProGrid suits the owner who prioritizes clarity.

What it does well

The ProGrid's defining strength is clarity. DE filtration captures finer particles than cartridge or sand filtration, so the water it produces is exceptionally clear and bright. For a showpiece pool, or simply an owner who wants the water flawless, that finest-of-all clarity is the reason to choose DE.

The ProGrid is built durably for a long outdoor life and is well supported by Hayward. On a Hayward pad it integrates cleanly with the rest of the equipment. It is a capable, proven DE filter for an owner who wants the best clarity available.

What to know before buying

A DE filter asks for more involvement than a cartridge or sand filter. After cleaning, which is done by backwashing, the DE powder must be recharged, added back to coat the grids, so there is a step cartridge and sand filters do not have. The grids themselves are also a component that needs periodic inspection and eventual replacement if torn.

Because it backwashes, a DE filter does use some water in cleaning, and DE powder must be kept on hand and handled. None of this is difficult, but it does mean a DE filter is the most hands-on of the three types. The trade for that involvement is the finest clarity. As always, the filter must be sized to the pool and matched to the pump, best done professionally.

How WETYR Pools installs and services it

WETYR Pools sizes, installs, and services Hayward filters, including the ProGrid DE filter, as part of our filter maintenance and equipment work. We match the filter to the pool and pump, install it correctly, and service it properly, including correct DE recharging and grid inspection.

For an owner who wants the finest clarity a DE filter delivers, we handle the extra service steps as part of a maintenance plan, so the clarity is effortless to enjoy.

The Balance

Pros and cons

What we like

  • The finest filtration and clearest water of any filter type
  • Durable build, well supported by Hayward
  • Natural fit on a Hayward equipment pad
  • Ideal for showpiece pools wanting brilliant clarity

What to weigh

  • Most hands-on of the three filter types
  • DE powder must be recharged after cleaning and kept on hand
  • Backwashing uses some water; grids need periodic replacement
At a Glance

Hayward ProGrid DE Filter specifications

Type Diatomaceous earth (DE) pool filter
Strength The finest water clarity of any filter type
Servicing Backwash, then recharge DE powder; inspect grids
Best use Owners wanting the clearest possible water
Water use Uses some water for backwashing

Specifications are general guidance. Confirm current details with Hayward before purchase.

WETYR Pools Can Help

Installed and serviced by one accountable team

WETYR Pools sizes, installs, and services pool equipment as part of our craftsman-led service work. The right product, installed correctly, is what delivers the result.

Questions Answered

Hayward ProGrid DE Filter FAQ

What is a DE filter?+

A DE, or diatomaceous earth, filter coats internal grids with a fine natural powder and forces water through that coating, trapping even very small particles. It produces the finest filtration and clearest water of the three filter types.

Is the Hayward ProGrid worth the extra effort?+

For an owner who wants the clearest possible water, yes. DE filtration genuinely produces a more brilliant clarity than cartridge or sand. The trade is more involved servicing, including recharging the DE powder after each cleaning.

How is a DE filter cleaned?+

A DE filter is cleaned by backwashing, then the DE powder is recharged, added back to coat the grids. The grids themselves need periodic inspection and eventual replacement if torn. It is the most hands-on of the three filter types.

Should I choose DE, cartridge, or sand?+

DE gives the finest clarity but the most involved service; cartridge filters filter finely and waste no water; sand filters are simplest and lowest-cost. The right choice depends on the pool and the owner, and we help match the filter to both.

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