Hayward DE filter parts on a daylight equipment pad

Best Replacement DE Filter Grid Sets

DE filter grids are the consumable inside the filter housing — the fabric-wrapped frames that hold a layer of diatomaceous earth and trap microscopic particles. They wear out, tear, and need replacement every 5–10 years. Here’s how to pick the right grid set for your filter.

The two main grid types

1. Standard polyester grids

Most residential DE filter grids are polyester fabric wrapped around a plastic frame. Affordable, replaceable individually if just one tears. The most-installed type.

2. Rare-earth (premium) grids

Same construction but with finer-weave fabric for better filtration. More expensive, but worth it for pools with persistent water clarity issues.

Match the grid set to your filter

Each filter brand uses slightly different grid configurations:

  • Hayward Pro-Grid / Micro-Clear (DE series): 8 grids per set, with a central manifold. Most common residential DE filter family.
  • Pentair FNS Plus: 7 vertical grids around a manifold. Different bottom-cap design than Hayward.
  • Pentair Quad DE: 4 cartridge-style grids in a horizontal layout. Different design entirely.
  • Sta-Rite System 2 Mod D: proprietary tubular grids. Replacement grids are Sta-Rite-specific.

Read the filter housing label or look at the existing grids to identify which family you have.

Replacement parts for Hayward DE filters

Hayward 22 inch retainer rod for DE filter grids

Hayward 22″ Retainer Rod

$78.10

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Hayward 28 inch retainer rod for DE filter grids

Hayward 28″ Retainer Rod

$89.70

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Hayward 34 inch retainer rod for DE filter grids

Hayward 34″ Retainer Rod

$108.80

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OEM vs. generic grids

OEM-branded grids (Hayward, Pentair) cost 30–50% more than generic replacements. For most residential DE filters, generic grids from reputable manufacturers (Unicel, U.S. Seal) work identically — same fabric weave, same plastic frames, same dimensions. The savings on a complete 8-grid set is $80–$200.

Exception: Pentair Quad DE filters use a proprietary design and the generic alternatives don’t always seat properly. Stick with OEM for those.

How long should grids last?

With proper maintenance (annual deep clean, careful DE recharge), expect 5–10 years. Common causes of premature failure:

  • Backwashing with worn-out spider gasket (lets DE through, fabric clogs faster)
  • Adding DE dry instead of as slurry (abrasive wear on fabric)
  • Not replacing the body o-ring (water bypasses grids and erodes fabric edges)
  • Running filter with damaged manifold (uneven flow tears fabric)

Send PST Pool Supplies your filter model and we’ll match the correct grid set on the first order.

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