Hayward Perflex EC65A
#8 in D.E.Full review
An extended-cycle D.E. filter for an in-ground pool, for owners who want D.E. clarity and long runs between cleanings.
Amazon $1,149$1,149
The Hayward Perflex EC65A is the better pool filter overall, rated 3.1 to 3.0. The Hayward Perflex EC65A leads on value. The Hayward ProGrid DE3620 wins on filter area. The Hayward Perflex EC65A costs $240 less ($1,149 vs $1,389).
Hayward ProGrid DE3620
#9 in D.E.Full review
A vertical-grid D.E. filter for an in-ground pool owner who wants the clearest water and will add D.E. after each backwash.
Amazon $1,389$1,389
Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Hayward Perflex EC65A for value ($17.15 per gpm ($1,149, 67 gpm) vs $19.29 per gpm ($1,389, 72 gpm)).
- Choose the Hayward ProGrid DE3620 for filter area (36 sq ft of filter area vs 27 sq ft of filter area).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every D.E. pool filter; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Hayward Perflex EC65A | Hayward ProGrid DE3620 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.1/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 35% | 46 $17.15 per gpm ($1,149, 67 gpm) | 37 $19.29 per gpm ($1,389, 72 gpm) |
| Filter area 30% | 13 27 sq ft of filter area | 31 36 sq ft of filter area |
| Valve 10% | 100 no backwash valve needed | 50 valve type not published (neutral score used) |
| Pressure rating 10% | 100 50 psi maximum working pressure | 100 50 psi maximum working pressure |
| Warranty 15% | 33 1-year warranty | 33 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Hayward Perflex EC65A | Hayward ProGrid DE3620 | |
|---|---|---|
| Filtering | ||
| Filter type | D.E. | D.E. |
| Filter area | 27 sq ft | 36 sq ft |
| Maximum flow | 67 gpm | 72 gpm |
| Pool type | In-ground | In-ground |
| Build | ||
| Valve | None needed | - |
| Maximum pressure | 50 psi | 50 psi |
| Ports | 1.5 in | 2 in |
| Air relief | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |