Hayward Perflex EC75A
#4 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 $1,239$1,239
The Hayward Perflex EC75A is the better pool filter overall, rated 3.7 to 3.5. The Hayward Perflex EC75A leads on value. The Pentair FNS Plus 48 wins on filter area. The Hayward Perflex EC75A costs $140 less ($1,239 vs $1,379).
Pentair FNS Plus 48
#5 in D.E.Full review
A grid D.E. filter for an in-ground pool of up to about 46,080 gallons, for owners who want the clearest water and will handle D.E.
Amazon $1,379$1,379
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 EC75A for value ($12.39 per gpm ($1,239, 100 gpm) vs $14.36 per gpm ($1,379, 96 gpm)).
- Choose the Pentair FNS Plus 48 for filter area (48 sq ft of filter area vs 40 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 EC75A | Pentair FNS Plus 48 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.7/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Value 35% | 73 $12.39 per gpm ($1,239, 100 gpm) | 61 $14.36 per gpm ($1,379, 96 gpm) |
| Filter area 30% | 38 40 sq ft of filter area | 54 48 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 EC75A | Pentair FNS Plus 48 | |
|---|---|---|
| Filtering | ||
| Filter type | D.E. | D.E. |
| Filter area | 40 sq ft | 48 sq ft |
| Maximum flow | 100 gpm | 96 gpm |
| Largest pool | - | 46,080 gal |
| Pool type | In-ground | In-ground |
| Build | ||
| Tank diameter | - | 21.5 in |
| Valve | None needed | - |
| Maximum pressure | 50 psi | 50 psi |
| Ports | 1.5 in | - |
| Air relief | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |