{"product_id":"hayward-cx550re-replacement-cartridge-element-reliable-pool","title":"Hayward CX550RE Replacement Cartridge Element - Reliable Pool","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn this review of the Hayward CX550RE replacement cartridge element, the bottom line is simple: it is a practical choice for pool owners needing a direct-fit replacement that restores filtration performance. Built from reinforced polyester with a precision extruded core, this cartridge is aimed at people using Hayward Easy-Clear or Star Clear systems who want reliable dirt and debris trapping and straightforward maintenance. The review focuses on real-world use, ease of cleaning and compatibility with several Hayward cartridge models, so buyers know what to expect when swapping a tired element.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDirect fit compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed to fit Hayward Easy-Clear and Star Clear models C400, 550, C120, C200 and C225 so replacement is straightforward for those systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh filtration area:\u003c\/strong\u003e The element offers 55 sq ft of filtration area, which provides ample surface to trap larger particles and extend time between cleanings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDurable construction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Made from reinforced polyester elements for consistent filtration and resistance to common pool chemicals used with Hayward systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEfficient water flow:\u003c\/strong\u003e The precision-engineered extruded core maintains good water flow while helping reduce energy cost by avoiding excessive pressure drop.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEasy maintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e The cartridge can be removed and pressure washed inside and out, simplifying routine cleaning and extending usable life when maintained properly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClear identification:\u003c\/strong\u003e Each element is individually packaged with Hayward end caps and plastic wrap so users can identify a genuine Hayward replacement part.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis cartridge is best for owners of above-ground or in-ground pools that use Hayward Easy-Clear or Star Clear cartridge filters and need a like-for-like replacement. It suits DIY pool maintainers who perform regular pressure-wash cleaning and want straightforward compatibility with common Hayward models.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt may be less suitable for owners seeking an aftermarket low-cost alternative or those who prefer sand or DE filtration systems; also, buyers who expect multi-season, maintenance-free performance should plan to clean the element regularly and inspect for wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePros \u0026amp; Cons\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePros\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMatches original Hayward fit and finish, making installation simple for compatible filter housings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e55 sq ft filtration area provides good dirt-trapping capacity and helps keep water clear between services.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReinforced polyester construction and extruded core support consistent flow and chemical compatibility.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCons\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSome users report varied longevity; durability depends on maintenance frequency and pool conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBrand\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHayward\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFiltration area\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e55 sq ft\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCompatible models\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEasy-Clear and Star Clear C400, 550, C120, C200, C225\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7 in outside diameter x 19-5\/8 in height\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e4 pounds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaterial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReinforced polyester element with extruded core\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOur Verdict\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hayward CX550RE replacement cartridge element is a solid, value-minded option for pool owners using compatible Hayward cartridge filters; it restores original filtration performance with a large 55 sq ft surface and durable polyester construction. With routine pressure-wash maintenance it delivers clear water and straightforward installation, making it a sensible buy for those who want genuine Hayward replacement parts and predictable results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhich filter models will this cartridge fit?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis element fits Hayward Easy-Clear and Star Clear cartridge filter models C400, 550, C120, C200 and C225.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do you clean the cartridge?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRemove the element and pressure wash inside and out with a garden hose to remove trapped debris; allow to dry before reinstalling if needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs the material compatible with pool chemicals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe reinforced polyester construction is consistent with Hayward quality and is compatible with the chemicals typically specified for Hayward systems.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hayward","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48176939466971,"sku":"B002KMIK9E","price":91.19,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0724\/1043\/1707\/files\/61oS07Rm2JL._AC_SL1000_4896b641-57ef-4bc1-889d-f893f8ffe0e8.jpg?v=1769618415","url":"https:\/\/gearmusthave.com\/products\/hayward-cx550re-replacement-cartridge-element-reliable-pool","provider":"GearMustHave","version":"1.0","type":"link"}