Choosing the right replacement filters for your automatic pool cleaner can significantly impact your pool maintenance routine. In 2026, the market offers a variety of options, from ultra-fine filtration to durable multi-layer designs. For those looking for an all-around performer, the Hayward Sharkvac Cartridges stand out for compatibility and enhanced filtration, though they come at a higher price and are model-specific. Meanwhile, the Dolphin filters provide excellent debris trapping with impact-resistant materials, but their compatibility limits may exclude some users. For those prioritizing long-term value, the Ultra Fine Filtration Basket offers straightforward debris filtering, but regular rinsing is necessary. Understanding these trade-offs helps me decide which filter suits my pool cleaning needs best.
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Key Takeaways
- Compatibility varies significantly; choose filters that match your specific pool cleaner model.
- Filtration effectiveness depends on media quality—PET fiber and multi-layer designs generally perform better.
- Durability and ease of maintenance are key for long-term cost savings and hassle-free cleaning.
- Ultra-fine filters excel at trapping small particles but often require more frequent rinsing.
- Price and quantity are important; multi-pack options often provide better value for regular replacement.
| 4 Pack Hayward Sharkvac Pool Filter Cartridges RCX70101PAK2 Compatible with Robotic Pool Cleaners |  | Best Overall for Compatibility and Filtration | Model Number: RCX70101, RCX70101PAK2 | Compatible Devices: TigerShark, TigerShark QC, SharkVac XL | Material: Polyethylene (PE) | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ultra Fine Filtration Basket Compatible with Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaners S50, Active 15, Echo, Nautilus CC, Encore, E10, E20, Proteus DX3, Solo, Advantage |  | Best for Debris Trapping and Longevity | Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.1 x 5.3 inches | Item Weight: 1 pounds | Manufacturer: Fiitzn | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Replacement Part RCX97417SPAK2 Door Filter Element (4 Pack) |  | Best for Water Quality Maintenance | Part Number: RCX97417SPAK2 | Quantity: 4-pack | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown | |
| Replacement Robotic Pool Cleaner Filter Cartridges, Ultra Fine, 2 Pack for Hayward, Maytronics Models |  | Best for Ultra-Fine Filtration | Compatibility: Hayward TigerShark, SharkVac, AquaVac 500 series, Maytronics models | Material: ABS plastic frame, PET fiber filter | Filter Type: Ultra-fine, diamond-shaped grid | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Dolphin Filters 9991432-R4 Replacement Pool Filter (4 Pack) for M400/M500, Nautilus CC Plus |  | Best for Impact-Resistant Filtration | Product Dimensions: 6 x 3 x 2 inches | Item Weight: 15.2 ounces | Part Number: 9991432-R4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| replacement filters for automatic pool cleaner | Part Number |
|---|---|
| 4 Pack Hayward Sharkvac Pool F | — |
| Ultra Fine Filtration Basket C | 9991460-R1 |
| Replacement Part RCX97417SPAK2 | RCX97417SPAK2 |
| Replacement Robotic Pool Clean | — |
| Dolphin Filters 9991432-R4 Rep | 9991432-R4 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
4 Pack Hayward Sharkvac Pool Filter Cartridges RCX70101PAK2 Compatible with Robotic Pool Cleaners
This set of four cartridges is designed for Hayward robotic cleaners like TigerShark and SharkVac series. The 3-layered PET fiber design enhances filtration while providing impact resistance. Compared to others, these filters excel at trapping debris in in-ground pools, but they are limited to specific Hayward models, which could be restrictive for owners with different cleaners. Regular rinsing is required to maintain optimal performance, adding a maintenance step but ensuring effective cleaning.
Pros:- Includes four filters for extended use
- Compatible with a broad range of Hayward robotic cleaners
- Enhanced PET fiber material improves filtration and impact resistance
Cons:- Limited to specific Hayward models
- Requires regular rinsing and maintenance
Best for: Pool owners with Hayward robotic cleaners seeking reliable filtration and model compatibility.
Not ideal for: Owners with non-Hayward models or those seeking ultra-fine debris filtration without model restrictions.
- Model Number:RCX70101, RCX70101PAK2
- Compatible Devices:TigerShark, TigerShark QC, SharkVac XL
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Weight:0.54 kg
- Color:White
- Number of Items:4
Our verdict“A solid choice for Hayward users needing durable, multi-layered filtration cartridges.”
Ultra Fine Filtration Basket Compatible with Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaners S50, Active 15, Echo, Nautilus CC, Encore, E10, E20, Proteus DX3, Solo, Advantage
This ultra-fine basket is tailored for Dolphin models like Nautilus and Echo, trapping larger debris effectively while allowing fine particles to pass through. The ABS plastic frame ensures durability over 2-3 years with proper maintenance, making it ideal for pool owners who want a long-lasting, reusable filter. Compared to multi-layer cartridges, this basket emphasizes debris collection, reducing clogging and filter replacement frequency. However, it needs rinsing every 4-6 weeks to keep performance up, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Pros:- Effective at trapping large debris
- Long-lasting, durable ABS plastic construction
- Easy to rinse and maintain
Cons:- Requires regular rinsing every few weeks
- Limited to specific Dolphin models
Best for: Dolphin owners seeking durable, debris-focused filtration with minimal replacement costs.
Not ideal for: Owners needing ultra-fine particle filtration or those with incompatible Dolphin models.
- Product Dimensions:9.1 x 7.1 x 5.3 inches
- Item Weight:1 pounds
- Manufacturer:Fiitzn
- Part Number:9991460-R1
Our verdict“Excellent for debris removal with long-term durability, suitable for owners who don’t mind frequent rinsing.”
Replacement Part RCX97417SPAK2 Door Filter Element (4 Pack)
This pack of four door filter elements is designed primarily for water filtration, removing impurities and particulate matter from pool water. While they help in maintaining clear water, they are specific to certain pool cleaners and lack detailed info on material media. They are straightforward replacements but don’t focus on debris trapping, making them less versatile for general debris removal tasks compared to cartridge or basket filters.
Pros:- Effective at removing water impurities
- Includes four filters for extended use
- Helps maintain clear, clean water
Cons:- Limited compatibility
- No detailed media info
- Requires replacement when clogged
Best for: Pool owners focusing on water clarity and purity through filtration.
Not ideal for: Those needing debris or ultra-fine particle filtration, or with incompatible models.
- Part Number:RCX97417SPAK2
- Quantity:4-pack
Our verdict“A good choice for water quality-focused filtration but less suited for debris-heavy cleaning tasks.”
Replacement Robotic Pool Cleaner Filter Cartridges, Ultra Fine, 2 Pack for Hayward, Maytronics Models
This pair of ultra-fine filters is compatible with Hayward and Maytronics robotic cleaners, featuring a diamond-shaped grid made from PET fiber and reinforced ABS plastic. They excel at capturing tiny dirt and particles, making them ideal for pools requiring the highest level of water clarity. Compared to multi-layer filters, these are more delicate and need more frequent rinsing—every 4-6 weeks—but they provide superior fine-particle removal for demanding pools.
Pros:- Exceptional ultra-fine filtration
- Durable, reinforced PET fiber
- Reusable and easy to clean
Cons:- Requires frequent rinsing
- Limited compatibility
- Filter media may need replacement after 2-3 years
Best for: Pool owners prioritizing ultra-fine dirt and debris filtration, especially in pools with fine sediment or sensitive water chemistry.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a long-term, low-maintenance option or with incompatible models.
- Compatibility:Hayward TigerShark, SharkVac, AquaVac 500 series, Maytronics models
- Material:ABS plastic frame, PET fiber filter
- Filter Type:Ultra-fine, diamond-shaped grid
- Package Quantity:2 Pack
- Reusability:Yes
- Lasts:2-3 years with proper maintenance
Our verdict“Ideal for demanding pools where water clarity is paramount, but maintenance frequency is higher.”
Dolphin Filters 9991432-R4 Replacement Pool Filter (4 Pack) for M400/M500, Nautilus CC Plus
This set of four filters is compatible with Dolphin M400, M500, and Nautilus CC Plus models. Made from PET fiber with a 3-layer diamond grid, these filters excel at trapping debris and resisting impact damage. Compared to standard filters, they offer enhanced durability, making them suitable for frequent use. However, they are only compatible with specific Dolphin models, which may limit their applicability for some users. Regular replacement depends on usage, but they are designed to last several months with proper care.
Pros:- Enhanced impact resistance
- Effective debris and particle trapping
- Durable PET fiber material
Cons:- Limited model compatibility
- Replacement frequency varies with use
Best for: Dolphin users needing impact-resistant, debris-trapping filters for busy pools.
Not ideal for: Owners of incompatible Dolphin models or those requiring ultra-fine filtration.
- Product Dimensions:6 x 3 x 2 inches
- Item Weight:15.2 ounces
- Part Number:9991432-R4
- Quantity:4 Packs
Our verdict“Great for durability and debris control in compatible Dolphin cleaners, but limited compatibility reduces versatility.”
How We Picked
To select the best replacement filters, I evaluated compatibility with popular robotic pool cleaners, focusing on models from Hayward, Dolphin, and Maytronics. I prioritized filtration media quality, durability, and ease of maintenance, considering user reviews and technical specifications. Cost-effectiveness was also a factor, especially for multi-pack options that support frequent replacements. My goal was to identify filters that balance performance, longevity, and value, ensuring they meet the needs of a wide range of pool owners in 2026.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Replacement Filters For Automatic Pool Cleaners
Selecting the right replacement filter depends on your pool cleaner model, the type of debris you encounter, and your maintenance preferences. I’ve grouped the key factors to consider, so you can find a filter that balances filtration efficiency, durability, and cost effectively.Compatibility and Model Fit
The first step is matching the filter to your specific robotic pool cleaner. Some filters are designed for Hayward models like TigerShark and SharkVac, while others fit Dolphin or Maytronics cleaners. Purchasing a non-compatible filter means poor fit and subpar performance, so double-check your model number before buying.
Filtration Media and Performance
Filters with multi-layer PET fiber or diamond grids generally provide better debris and fine particle removal. Ultra-fine filters excel at dirt and sediment, but they often require more frequent rinsing. Balance your need for water clarity with your willingness to perform maintenance.
Durability and Maintenance
Durable materials like ABS plastic and impact-resistant PET fibers last longer, reducing replacement frequency. Reusable filters save money over time but demand regular rinsing. Consider your pool’s debris load and how much maintenance you’re willing to perform.
Cost and Value
Multi-pack options typically offer better per-unit value, especially if you replace filters frequently. Ultra-fine filters tend to be pricier and require more upkeep, so evaluate whether the initial investment matches your cleaning intensity and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my pool cleaner filters?
The frequency depends on your pool’s debris load and the filter type. Cartridge filters usually last 1-2 years with regular rinsing, while ultra-fine filters may need rinsing every 4-6 weeks and replacement after 2-3 years. Basket filters generally last longer but require periodic cleaning.
Can I use filters from different brands interchangeably?
It’s generally best to stick with filters designed for your specific pool cleaner model. While some filters may physically fit, compatibility issues can lead to poor filtration and potential damage. Always verify model numbers and specifications before switching brands.
Are ultra-fine filters worth the extra maintenance?
If water clarity is a priority, ultra-fine filters are a worthy investment. They trap tiny particles that standard filters miss, but they require more frequent rinsing. Consider your pool environment and willingness to perform regular upkeep when choosing this option.
What materials are best for durable, long-lasting filters?
Filters made from impact-resistant PET fibers and reinforced plastics like ABS tend to be more durable. These materials withstand frequent use and impact, making them suitable for busy pools. Cheaper or softer media may degrade faster, leading to more frequent replacements.
Is there a significant difference in filtration between multi-layer and ultra-fine filters?
Yes, multi-layer filters typically provide broader debris capture and impact resistance, making them versatile for general cleaning. Ultra-fine filters focus on capturing tiny particles, offering superior clarity but often requiring more maintenance. Your choice depends on your pool’s specific needs for debris removal versus water purity.
Conclusion
For pool owners prioritizing compatibility and robust filtration, the Hayward Sharkvac Cartridges make a strong choice. Those with Dolphin cleaners seeking durable, impact-resistant debris filters will benefit from the Dolphin Filters 9991432-R4. If ultra-fine water clarity is your goal, then the Hayward/Mayontrics ultra-fine filters are well worth the extra maintenance. Budget-conscious users aiming for long-term value should consider multi-pack basket filters, while those with specific model needs should verify compatibility carefully to ensure optimal performance.
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