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
3.2/5
An extended-cycle D.E. filter for an above-ground or small in-ground pool, for owners who want D.E. clarity without a backwash valve.
- 50 gpmFlow
- 25 sq ftFilter area
- 24,000 galPool size
- In-ground or above-groundPool type
Check price at Amazon$729
Price checked November 2, 2026. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Pros
- Bump handle knocks D.E. and dirt off the flex tubes, so no backwash between cleanings
- Uses far less water than backwashing a sand or grid D.E. filter
- Air vents automatically to the pool
Cons
- One-year parts-only warranty on the online (W3) version
- Small filter area means draining and recharging D.E. more often than a large grid filter
- 1-1/2 in. ports limit flow with large pumps
The Hayward Perflex extended cycle family
Every Hayward Perflex extended cycle model we rank, smallest first. Ratings compare each against its own type.
| Model | Flow | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward Perflex EC40AC | 40 gpm | 3.0/5 | $569 |
| Hayward Perflex EC50AC (this one) | 50 gpm | 3.2/5 | $729 |
| Hayward Perflex EC65A | 67 gpm | 3.1/5 | $1,149 |
| Hayward Perflex EC75A | 100 gpm | 3.7/5 | $1,239 |
How it scores
The rating comes from 5 measured or published factors, each scored 0-100 against fixed reference points for its type. How we rank explains each one.
Specifications
| Model number | W3EC50AC |
|---|---|
| Filtering | |
| Filter type | D.E. |
| Filter area | 25 sq ft |
| Maximum flow | 50 gpm |
| Largest pool | 24,000 gal |
| Pool type | In-ground or above-ground |
| Build | |
| Valve | None needed |
| Maximum pressure | 50 psi |
| Ports | 1.5 in |
| Air relief | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Alternatives in this type
Hayward ProGrid DE4820
#6 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 $1,559$1,559
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
Compare
Compare the Hayward Perflex EC50AC with any other pool filter →
More from Hayward: every Hayward product ranked.