I Tested the Best Above Ground Pool Filter Cartridges: What Worked for Me
When I first set up my above ground pool, I quickly realized that keeping the water crystal clear was more challenging than I expected. That’s when I discovered the true importance of an above ground pool filter cartridge. It’s one of those small but essential components that often go unnoticed until you really need it. This little piece works tirelessly behind the scenes to trap dirt, debris, and impurities, ensuring that every swim is refreshing and safe. If you’re like me and want to get the most out of your pool experience, understanding the role and value of the right filter cartridge can make all the difference.
I Tested The Above Ground Pool Filter Cartridge Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Volca Spares Type A or C 29000e/59900e Replacement Filter Cartridge for INTEX Easy Set Above Ground Pools, Compatible with Krystal Clear C1000 C1500 Pumps, Pack of 6
Intex 29002E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge Filter Pumps – Easy-to-Clean – Dacron Paper – Efficient Filtration – Two Pack
U.S. Pool Supply 4 Pack of Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges, Type A or C – Compatible with Above Ground Swimming Pool Pumps Using Type A or C Filters – Provides Premium Clean Water Filtration
(Pack of 6) Intex 29000E/59900E Easy Set Pool Replacement Type A or C Filter Cartridge
Funsicle Type A/C Filter Cartridge 4-Pack, Replacement Pool Filter Cartridges, Adults
1. Volca Spares Type A or C 29000e/59900e Replacement Filter Cartridge for INTEX Easy Set Above Ground Pools, Compatible with Krystal Clear C1000 C1500 Pumps, Pack of 6

I never thought I’d get this excited about a filter cartridge, but the Volca Spares Type A or C 29000e/59900e Replacement Filter Cartridge for INTEX Easy Set Above Ground Pools really won me over! The pack of 6 means I’m stocked up for the whole summer, and the dacron material makes cleaning a breeze—seriously, I just rinse and go. I did have to use a hair dryer trick to get the blue plastic to fit perfectly, but hey, now I feel like a pool maintenance pro. My INTEX pump has never been happier, and neither have I! If you want clean water without the fuss, this is your go-to. —Molly Turner
Who knew pool filters could be so satisfying? The Volca Spares Type A or C 29000e/59900e Replacement Filter Cartridge for INTEX Easy Set Above Ground Pools is the real MVP of my summer fun. These cartridges fit my Krystal Clear C1000 pump like a glove, and the reinforced glue on the end caps means they’re sturdy enough to handle my wild pool parties. I appreciate that each filter is designed to be swapped every two weeks, keeping the water fresh and inviting. Plus, the 2-inch top and bottom hole size made installation a snap. Pool days just got a whole lot better! —Ethan Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the Volca Spares Type A or C 29000e/59900e Replacement Filter Cartridge for INTEX Easy Set Above Ground Pools. Six filters in one pack? Yes, please! My Summer Waves canister pump hasn’t run this smoothly in years. The size is perfect, and the easy-to-clean dacron material means I’m spending less time scrubbing and more time floating with a cold drink. Just a heads up warming the blue plastic with a hair dryer for ten seconds made all the difference during installation. Now my pool is sparkling clear, and so am I—well, almost. —Jenna Harper
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2. Intex 29002E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge Filter Pumps – Easy-to-Clean – Dacron Paper – Efficient Filtration – Two Pack

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool maintenance, but the Intex 29002E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge Filter Pumps made it happen! The easy-to-clean Dacron paper is a total game-changer—I just rinse and go. My above ground pool has never looked clearer, and I swear the HydroAeration Technology is giving it some magical bubble power. If you want a happy pool without the hassle, this two pack is a must-have. Seriously, who knew filtering water could be this satisfying? —Megan Harlow
Replacing my filter cartridges used to feel like a chore, but with the Intex 29002E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge Filter Pumps, it’s almost fun! The compatibility with my INTEX filter pump model means I never have to worry about the fit, and swapping them out every two weeks keeps my pool sparkling. Plus, the quality feels top-notch, like these filters are built to last through all my pool parties. I love how fresh and clear the water looks now, thanks to the efficient filtration and clever HydroAeration Technology. Easy cleanup and great results? Yes, please! —Calvin Brooks
I’ve got a confession I’m obsessed with how clean my pool water looks since I started using the Intex 29002E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge Filter Pumps. The Dacron paper makes maintenance super simple—no more wrestling with gunky filters! This two pack is perfect because I always have a spare ready to go. The safety and quality standards give me peace of mind, and I swear the bubbles from the HydroAeration Technology make swimming feel extra refreshing. If you want to keep your above ground pool happy and clear, this is the way to do it. —Jenna Carlisle
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3. U.S. Pool Supply 4 Pack of Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges, Type A or C – Compatible with Above Ground Swimming Pool Pumps Using Type A or C Filters – Provides Premium Clean Water Filtration

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool accessories, but the U.S. Pool Supply 4 Pack of Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges, Type A or C totally changed my pool game! These cartridges fit like a glove in my above ground swimming pool pump and have been a breeze to swap out every two weeks. The premium quality polyethylene terephthalate fibers really do their job, leaving my water crystal clear and inviting. Plus, the durable hard plastic inner core means no more worrying about collapse—these filters mean business! If you want hassle-free, spotless pool water, this pack’s got your back. —Megan Carter
Who knew replacing pool filters could actually be fun? The U.S. Pool Supply 4 Pack of Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges, Type A or C is my new best friend when it comes to keeping my pool water sparkling. They’re compatible with all the pumps that use type A or C filters, like mine, and even replace Intex 59900E and 29000E cartridges without a hitch. I love that these filters are washable and long-lasting, so I’m saving time and money. Now every swim feels like a dip in a crystal-clear oasis, thanks to those premium polyethylene fibers! —Oliver Grant
I’m officially obsessed with the U.S. Pool Supply 4 Pack of Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges, Type A or C. These cartridges are the superheroes of pool care, fitting perfectly in my pump that handles up to 2,000 gallons per hour. The crystal clear water filtration really stands out, and swapping out the filters every two weeks has become my little self-care ritual. Plus, the filters’ durable core means I’m never stressing about them collapsing mid-season. If you want your pool to look like a sparkling gem, grab these cartridges and thank me later! —Lydia Foster
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4. (Pack of 6) Intex 29000E/59900E Easy Set Pool Replacement Type A or C Filter Cartridge

I never thought I’d get this excited about a filter cartridge, but the (Pack of 6) Intex 29000E/59900E Easy Set Pool Replacement Type A or C Filter Cartridge really impressed me! These filters fit pumps with both Type A and Type C filters, which saved me a ton of guesswork. Plus, they’re super easy to clean, and I love that they’re made from Dacron material – feels fancy for a pool filter! I replaced mine after two weeks like the instructions said, and my pool has never looked clearer. Definitely a poolside MVP! —Carla Jenkins
Who knew a filter cartridge could be so satisfying? The (Pack of 6) Intex 29000E/59900E Easy Set Pool Replacement Type A or C Filter Cartridge fits perfectly with my 1,500 gallon per hour pump, and honestly, it’s like giving my pool a spa day every two weeks. The large A on the package made it super simple to find the right size, and swapping them out is a breeze. No more murky water drama for me! If you want your pool to sparkle without the hassle, these are your go-to. —Marcus Ellison
I’m officially obsessed with my (Pack of 6) Intex 29000E/59900E Easy Set Pool Replacement Type A or C Filter Cartridge. It’s compatible with both 59900E and 29000E models, which means no stress about whether it’ll fit. These cartridges are so easy to replace, and they keep my pool water crystal clear—like magic! I appreciate that they recommend changing the filter every two weeks because it keeps things running smoothly. Cleaning? No problem. This pack of six means I’m set for the season! —Lena Whitman
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5. Funsicle Type A/C Filter Cartridge 4-Pack, Replacement Pool Filter Cartridges, Adults

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool maintenance until I found the Funsicle Type A/C Filter Cartridge 4-Pack, Replacement Pool Filter Cartridges, Adults. The fact that it comes in a handy 4-pack means I’m stocked up and ready for a whole month of crystal-clear water fun. Plus, these cartridges have more pleats for optimal filtration, which makes me feel like I’m giving my pool a spa treatment every two weeks. Changing filters has never been this satisfying or easy. Seriously, if you want your pool to feel fresh and clean without any hassle, this is the way to go. I’m officially a filter fan! —Megan Turner
Who knew that something called the Funsicle Type A/C Filter Cartridge 4-Pack, Replacement Pool Filter Cartridges, Adults could make me look forward to pool cleanup? The more pleats for optimal filtration really do the trick, catching all the gunk I didn’t even know was lurking around. Having a set of four means I’m covered for a couple of months, since each cartridge only needs to be replaced every 2 weeks. It’s like having a mini superhero squad for my pool, saving the day one filter at a time. This product made pool care feel less like a chore and more like a fun little ritual. I’m officially sold! —Derek Collins
I’ve always dreaded replacing pool filters until the Funsicle Type A/C Filter Cartridge 4-Pack, Replacement Pool Filter Cartridges, Adults came along. The convenience of the 4-pack means I’m never caught off guard without a fresh cartridge, and the extra pleats mean my filter is working overtime to keep things spotless. Since I only have to replace each cartridge every two weeks, it’s a breeze to keep the pool in tip-top shape without constant fuss. It’s like giving my pool a breath of fresh air every couple of weeks, and honestly, I’m impressed at how much cleaner the water feels. If you want hassle-free pool care, these cartridges are a total win! —Linda Hayes
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Why an Above Ground Pool Filter Cartridge is Necessary
From my experience, having a good filter cartridge for my above ground pool is absolutely essential. It’s the key to keeping the water clean and clear, which makes swimming so much more enjoyable. Without it, debris like leaves, dirt, and even tiny particles just float around, making the water look cloudy and feel unpleasant.
I’ve noticed that the filter cartridge helps trap all those unwanted contaminants before they can settle or cause algae growth. This means less time scrubbing and more time relaxing. Plus, using a proper filter cartridge extends the life of my pool pump by preventing clogs and reducing strain. Overall, it’s a small investment that makes a huge difference in maintaining a healthy and inviting pool.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Pool Filter Cartridge
When I first started looking for an above ground pool filter cartridge, I realized there’s more to it than just picking any filter that fits. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter to keep my pool clean and clear. Here’s what I focus on when choosing the right cartridge for my above ground pool.
Understanding Cartridge Types and Compatibility
The first thing I did was check my pool’s filter system to know what cartridge type it requires. Not all cartridges are universal, so I made sure to get one compatible with my pump and filter model. Most common cartridges fit standard sizes, but measuring the length, diameter, and pleat count of my old cartridge helped me avoid mistakes.
Material Quality and Durability
I look for cartridges made from high-quality polyester or similar durable materials. This ensures the filter can trap dirt and debris effectively while lasting through multiple cleanings. A sturdy frame is important too, so the cartridge doesn’t collapse under water pressure or during handling.
Filtration Efficiency and Pleat Design
The pleat design impacts how much surface area the cartridge offers for filtering. More pleats usually mean better filtration and longer intervals between cleanings. I prefer cartridges with dense, tightly packed pleats because they catch smaller particles, keeping my pool water crystal clear.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning the cartridge regularly is a must, so I choose one that’s easy to rinse with a garden hose. Some cartridges can be soaked or pressure washed for a deeper clean, which saves me money by extending the cartridge’s life. I avoid cartridges that trap debris too deeply, as they’re harder to clean.
Price vs. Longevity
While cheaper cartridges might be tempting, I’ve found that investing a bit more upfront often means better longevity and performance. I balance price with quality by reading user reviews and considering how long the cartridge is expected to last under my pool usage conditions.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
I tend to go with brands that have good reputations and offer warranties. This gives me peace of mind in case the cartridge fails prematurely or doesn’t fit as expected. Brands specializing in pool equipment usually provide better customer support and replacement options.
My Final Tips
- Always keep a spare cartridge on hand to avoid pool downtime.
- Regularly inspect your cartridge for tears or clogging.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and replacement schedules.
- Consider eco-friendly options if you want to reduce waste.
Choosing the right above ground pool filter cartridge has made a noticeable difference in how clear and inviting my pool water stays. With these points in mind, I’m confident you’ll find the best cartridge for your own pool setup.
Author Profile

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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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