Hayward W3S244T ProSeries Sand Filter, 24-Inch, Top-Mount

I had a DE filter and was really tired of replacing the filter grids, having to open up the filter regularly (every month or to) to clean the grids, and buying DE. Plus I guess the filter housing was getting old because despite twice replacing the big O ring between the housing halves, something always leaked especially when I upped the pressure to run the Polaris. This caused air to enter and water / DE to flow back into the pool It finally totally wouldn't stop leaking. I was really tired of messing with the whole setup. Anyway, I wanted something simpler, that didn't require as frequent maintenance and decided on this Hayward sand filter despite that I had read that sand filters supposedly don't filter as well. Best decision I ever made (except, I must say, marrying my wife who is sitting next to me)! By the time I installed it after 2 weeks of no filtering the pool was army green. Took a full 5 days of filtering, a couple of shocks and extra flocculent but now the pool looks great and I look forward to years of the minimal maintenance of a sand filter. This sand filter clears the water 99% as well as DE filter - just takes longer - but the end result is PERFECTLY fine. Product delivery was timely, the box was intact, all the parts were there, and installation was easy and straight forward even for a regular around the house handy man like me. This filter housing seems very sturdy and the multi-valve feels solid and of high quality. After putting in the sand, run in Rinse mode first to get fine sediment out. After filtering for a while then let things settle and vacuum the whole pool to get out the super fine sediment from the bottom the sand filter may not be getting, then the water will get even clearer. In short, I recommend this filter.

Great product. Great price.

I purchased this filter system to replace an aging Hayward 24" filter that was showing signs of wear and needed sand replacement due to previous homeowner neglect. Alongside, I opted to upgrade to a 27" model for increased filtration capacity, necessitating a rerouting of plumbing.Navigating the sizing requirements for my pool was a bit daunting, with numerous factors to consider. Hayward's customer service directed me to local pool suppliers, but I found the pricing steep compared to DIY options.Installation was straightforward, thanks to provided instructions and online resources. However, I was disappointed that basic components like threaded adapters and lubricant were not included, considering the premium price.Don't overlook the additional cost of sand when budgeting for this system. The 27" filter requires 350lbs of sand, adding to the overall expense.My total investment, including installation and additional materials, approached $1,000. With proper maintenance, I anticipate this system lasting 5-7 years before I have to replace the sand.A note for fellow buyers: Amazon lists two Hayward 27" filter models (W3S270T & S270T), researching into this, I have concluded the "W3" likely denoting a newer version or indicating purchase through non-traditional channels. I opted for the W3 variant for Prime shipping reliability however if you want to save about $60, feel free to get the latterFor smoother installation, consider these tips:1. Leave sandbags outside in sun to help dry them out. Dry sand is MUCH easier to fill with AND helps mitigate issues of impact with wet sand hitting the folding laterals2. before adding sand, fill filter (with lateral assembly inside) with water. Add enough to cover (a) the laterals & (b) the drain cap. This is a great opportunity to see if you have a leak at the drain cap before adding sand.3. purchase a 1.5" pvc cap to use as a sand shield. it holds in place well and allows for hosing off sand before adding the Vari-flo control valve (closing off filter). Just make sure to remove cap before inserting Control valve. Store in safe place for future maintenance.4. purchase teflon tape, apply to all threaded connections5. purchase waterproof lubricant (B01MDUYET2) and apply to o-ring as well as ontop of teflon tape connections for added protection from leaks as well as making future maintenance easier (smoother removal)6. Make sure you align the Control valve in such a way that makes it easy to view the pressure gauge and glass sight tube before securing the flange clamp. Once secured, the pvc work can begin.7. Consider adding slip joint adapters to each pvc pipe connected to the Control valve. Doing so will make it a great deal easier to remove the control valve for maintenance without having to compromise existing PVC connections. This is HIGHLY recommended if you are getting a professional to install (if you dont know how to work with pvc)

Some improvements over the last design, ie the filter legs - once inside the body - the filter risers simple fold out from the central tube. Very nice and easy to do.The top valve moves easily. So after you filter all the body parts or the neighbor's kids out of your pool water, it is easy to switch between waste or backwash. If those urchins piss in da pool - you are on your own for that one. Remember, there is no "P" in pool!Good unit. But it! But it now, you procrastinator!!!! Stop stalling ........

There is a tiny leak, but overall I am happy with it