1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient installation, operation, and maintenance of your Hayward W3C4030 SwimClear Cartridge Pool Filter. Please read all instructions thoroughly before proceeding with installation or use. Proper adherence to these guidelines will ensure optimal performance and longevity of your pool filtration system.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Failure to follow these instructions can result in severe injury or death.
- Always disconnect power to the pump before servicing the filter.
- Ensure the filter is installed by a qualified professional in accordance with all local and national plumbing and electrical codes.
- Do not operate the filter if any components are damaged or missing.
- Never exceed the maximum operating pressure indicated on the filter.
- Always open the air relief valve before disassembling the filter to release trapped air and pressure.
- Keep children away from pool equipment.
3. Product Overview and Features
The Hayward SwimClear W3C4030 is a high-performance cartridge pool filter designed for in-ground pools and spas. It offers superior water clarity and energy efficiency through its advanced design.

Figure 3.1: Full view of the Hayward SwimClear Cartridge Pool Filter.

Figure 3.2: Cutaway view illustrating the internal cartridge elements within the filter.
Key Features:
- 425 Square Foot Filtration Area: Provides extensive surface area for heavy-duty dirt-holding capacity and extended filter cycles.
- Cleanable Cartridge Elements: Reusable polyester cartridge elements eliminate the need for backwashing, simplifying maintenance.
- Durable Tank Construction: Filter tanks are manufactured from robust materials designed to withstand demanding applications and environmental conditions.
- Heavy-Duty Clamp: A tamper-proof, one-piece flange clamp securely fastens the tank top and bottom, allowing quick access to internal components without disturbing plumbing.
- Rapid-Release Air Relief Valve: High-capacity manual air relief valve facilitates quick and easy bleeding of air with a quarter-turn lever.
- Optimized Hydraulic Performance: Top manifold configuration and CPVC 2" or 2-1/2" union connections ensure maximum flow for superior water clarity and energy savings.
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the safe and effective operation of your filter. It is recommended that a qualified pool professional perform the installation.
Installation Steps:
- Site Selection: Choose a level, solid surface for the filter, ensuring adequate clearance for maintenance and access to plumbing.
- Plumbing Connections: Connect the filter to your pool's plumbing system using the CPVC 2" or 2-1/2" union connections. Ensure all connections are watertight.
- Air Relief Valve Installation: Confirm the rapid-release manual air relief valve is securely installed on the top of the filter.
- Cartridge Installation: Ensure the cartridge elements are correctly seated within the filter tank. Refer to Figure 3.2 for visual guidance.
- Secure the Clamp: Fasten the heavy-duty, one-piece flange clamp around the tank, ensuring it is tight and secure.

Figure 4.1: Detail of the CPVC union connections for plumbing.

Figure 4.2: Close-up of the heavy-duty clamp mechanism.
5. Operating Instructions
Once installed, operating your SwimClear filter is straightforward. Always ensure the pool pump is off before making any adjustments to the filter.
Starting the Filter:
- Ensure all plumbing connections are secure and the filter clamp is properly tightened.
- Open the manual air relief valve (Figure 5.1) on top of the filter by turning the lever a quarter turn.
- Start the pool pump.
- Allow the filter to fill with water. Air will be expelled from the air relief valve.
- Once a steady stream of water emerges from the air relief valve, close the valve.
- Note the initial operating pressure on the pressure gauge. This is your clean filter pressure.

Figure 5.1: The rapid-release manual air relief valve.
Monitoring Filter Performance:
Regularly check the pressure gauge. When the pressure rises 8-10 PSI above your clean filter pressure, or when water flow significantly decreases, it indicates that the cartridges need cleaning.
6. Maintenance
Routine maintenance of your SwimClear filter cartridges is essential for maintaining clear pool water and extending the life of your equipment.
Cartridge Cleaning Procedure:
- Turn Off Pump: Disconnect power to the pool pump.
- Release Pressure: Open the manual air relief valve to release all internal pressure.
- Drain Filter: Open the drain plug at the bottom of the filter to empty the water.
- Remove Clamp: Loosen and remove the heavy-duty clamp that secures the filter top.
- Remove Top: Carefully lift off the filter top.
- Remove Cartridges: Extract the dirty cartridge elements from the filter tank.
- Clean Cartridges: Rinse the cartridges thoroughly with a garden hose, ensuring all debris is removed from the pleats. For stubborn dirt or oils, use a specialized cartridge cleaning solution.
- Inspect Cartridges: Check cartridges for any tears, damage, or excessive wear. Replace if necessary.
- Reassemble: Place clean cartridges back into the filter tank, ensuring they are properly seated. Replace the filter top and secure the clamp.
- Restart Filter: Follow the "Starting the Filter" procedure from Section 5.

Figure 6.1: Example of replacement cartridge models (CX880RE and CX880REPK4).
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Hayward SwimClear filter.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Water Leaks from Clamp Area | Improperly seated O-ring; clamp not tightened sufficiently; damaged O-ring. | Ensure O-ring is clean and properly seated. Tighten clamp securely. Inspect O-ring for damage and replace if necessary. |
| Cloudy Pool Water | Dirty cartridges; insufficient filtration time; chemical imbalance. | Clean filter cartridges (Section 6). Increase pump run time. Test and adjust pool chemistry. |
| Low Water Flow / High Pressure | Clogged cartridges; closed valves; air in system. | Clean filter cartridges (Section 6). Check all valves are fully open. Release air from the system using the air relief valve. |
| Air Bubbles from Return Jets | Air leak on suction side of pump; low water level in pool. | Check pump lid, skimmer basket, and all suction-side plumbing for leaks. Ensure pool water level is adequate. |
8. Specifications
Detailed specifications for the Hayward W3C4030 SwimClear Cartridge Pool Filter.
- Model Number: W3C4030
- Filtration Area: 425 Sq. Ft.
- Product Dimensions: 23.1 x 24.6 x 41.8 inches
- Item Weight: 83 pounds
- Manufacturer: Hayward
- Connection Type: CPVC 2" or 2-1/2" Union Connections
- Filter Type: Multi-Element Cartridge
9. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided with your product or visit the official Hayward website. For technical support, replacement parts, or service inquiries, please contact Hayward customer service directly.
Hayward Official Website: www.hayward-pool.com





