How to Read a Filter Part Number (and Cross-Reference It)

One cartridge, many names

The cartridge in a Hayward C1200 tank is also sold as Pleatco PA120, Unicel C-8412 and Filbur FC-1293. Those are not different filters; they are different companies' catalog numbers for the same size. A cross-reference is simply the list of numbers that describe one physical cartridge.

Where to find your number

Look on the end cap of the old cartridge first. OEM filters print their own number there, and aftermarket cartridges usually print their brand's number plus one or two equivalents. If the cap is worn, the filter tank label often lists the replacement element, especially on Pentair and Jandy tanks.

When the numbers are gone: measure

Three measurements identify almost every pool and spa cartridge: overall length (end cap to end cap), outside diameter (across the pleats, not the cap), and the diameter of the openings at the top and bottom. Note whether the openings are open holes, threaded, or closed. Compare against the dimension panel on our product pages; a difference of a quarter inch matters.

Look-alikes to watch

• Hayward C4000 (CX870 element) and C4030 (CX880 element) look the same; check the element number.
• Pentair CC150 and CC200 share a body; the tank rating decides.
• Intex Type H is not Type I or Type D.
• Dyson TP01 and HP01 rings look alike; the part numbers differ (968126-03 vs 968125-03).
• Honeywell humidifier Filter A is 1-1/2" thick; Filter C is 7/8".

Use the finder

Our home page finder searches every OEM, Pleatco, Unicel, Filbur and model number we list. Type any of them and it returns the Future Way filter that matches.