The Hayward Perflex W3EC65A is a 27 sq ft extended-cycle D.E. pool filter for in-ground pools. Patented Flex-Tube design cleans without backwashing. 6 lbs D.E. capacity, 67 GPM max flow. Self-venting, integral check valve, easy-access clamp assembly. 1 year warranty.
Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A Extended-Cycle D.E. Pool Filter: No Backwash, No Grid Teardown
The PerFlex W3EC65A delivers 2-micron D.E. filtration without the maintenance overhead of a conventional grid-based D.E. filter. Instead of rigid grid panels that require backwashing, fresh D.E. after every cleaning, and periodic acid washing, the PerFlex uses patented Flex-Tubes that clean themselves via a bump handle. When pressure rises, you stop the pump, stroke the bump handle, and restart. The Flex-Tubes compress and release, shedding the spent D.E. cake, which redistributes and recoats the tubes. No valve, no drain line, no fresh D.E. required after each cleaning. A single 6 lb charge lasts significantly longer than in a conventional D.E. filter because the powder is reused rather than flushed away.
For pools requiring more filtration capacity, the W3EC75A (40 sq ft, 7 lbs D.E., 80 GPM) is the step-up in-ground model.
How the PerFlex Bump-to-Clean Cycle Works
When operating pressure rises 10 to 12 PSI above the clean baseline: stop the pump, push the bump handle down slowly then up briskly, repeat 8 times. The Flex-Tubes flex and compress, dislodging the loaded D.E. cake. Dirty and clean D.E. remix and recoat the tube surfaces. Restart the pump. In most cases pressure returns near baseline and the existing D.E. charge continues filtering without adding fresh powder. This cycle can be repeated many times before a full sump drain is needed.
Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A D.E. Filter Specifications
SKU / ModelW3EC65A Filter TypeExtended-cycle D.E. (Flex-Tube) Filter Area27 sq ft D.E. Capacity6 lbs pool-grade D.E. powder Max Flow Rate67 GPM Filtration Range2 microns Backwash Valve RequiredNo Cleaning MethodBump handle; no backwashing Port Size1.5″ NPT inlet and outlet Internal ElementPatented Flex-Tube elements Check ValveIntegral; prevents backflow when pump is off Air ReliefSelf-venting; automatically expels air Tank MaterialHeavy-duty glass-filled PPL; corrosion-free ApplicationIn-ground pools ReplacesEC65A (direct replacement) Warranty1 year
Hayward PerFlex D.E. Filter Lineup
The PerFlex line covers in-ground and above-ground applications. All models use the same Flex-Tube bump-to-clean design with no backwash valve required.
In-Ground PerFlex D.E. Filters
| Product | Filter Area | D.E. Charge | Flow Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward PerFlex 27 Sq Ft D.E. Filter (this model) | 27 sq ft | 6 lbs | 67 GPM |
| Hayward PerFlex 40 Sq Ft D.E. Filter | 40 sq ft | 7 lbs | 80 GPM |
Above-Ground PerFlex D.E. Filters
| Product | Filter Area | D.E. Charge | Flow Rate | Pump |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward Perflex D.E. Filter with Clamp 4 lb | 20 sq ft | 4 lbs | 40 GPM | Filter only |
| Hayward Perflex D.E. Filter System 4 lb 1 HP Pump | 20 sq ft | 4 lbs | 40 GPM | 1 HP PowerFlo Matrix |
| Hayward Perflex D.E. Filter with Clamp 5 lb | 25 sq ft | 5 lbs | 50 GPM | Filter only |
| Hayward Perflex D.E. Filter System 5 lb 1.5 HP Pump | 25 sq ft | 5 lbs | 50 GPM | 1.5 HP PowerFlo Matrix |
Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A D.E. Pool Filter Frequently Asked Questions
Conventional D.E. filters coat rigid grid panels that must be backwashed to clean, require fresh D.E. after each backwash, need a multiport valve and dedicated drain line, and require periodic grid acid washing. The PerFlex uses Flex-Tubes that self-clean through the bump mechanism. Spent D.E. is redistributed and reused rather than flushed away, so no backwash valve, drain line, or grid acid washing is needed.
Significantly longer than in a conventional D.E. filter. Because D.E. is reused through the bump cycle rather than discharged and replaced, a single 6 lb charge can run for several months depending on pool size, bather load, and debris conditions. Most PerFlex owners add a full D.E. recharge only one to three times per season.
Standard pool-grade diatomaceous earth. Do not use food-grade, pest-control, or industrial D.E. products. Perlite is also compatible with the Flex-Tube design as a silica-free alternative.
D.E. returning to the pool through the return fittings means one or more Flex-Tube elements has a hole or seam failure allowing powder to bypass the filter media. Stop the pump immediately, drain the tank, remove the tube assembly, and inspect each element individually. Replace any tube showing a breach before restarting.
Yes. W3EC65A is the direct replacement for EC65A with the same specifications and Flex-Tube element design.
Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A D.E. Pool Filter Manual and Warranty Info
- Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A – Owner’s Manual (PDF)
- Hayward PerFlex W3EC65A – Parts Diagram and Replacement Part Numbers (PDF)
