Hayward Micro StarClear Cartridge Filter 25 Sq Ft | C225

The Hayward Micro StarClear C225 is a 25 sq ft cartridge filter for spas and small above-ground pools. It runs on a single locking knob instead of bolts or a clamp band, so the head comes off by hand for cartridge cleaning. Plumbing is 1-1/2" FIP with a 1/2" FIP drain port. Uses the CX225RE cartridge element.

Highlights

• 25 sq ft of cartridge media: Handles 4,500 gallons on an 8-hour turnover, or 5,625 gallons on a 10-hour turnover.
• Single locking knob: No bolts and no clamp band — the head releases by hand to pull the cartridge.
• Rotating filter head: Turn the head to put the pressure gauge and manual air relief wherever you can reach them.
• Debris sump and elevated collector: Keeps heavy debris from bypassing back to the pool when you lift the cartridge out.
• Corrosion-free tank: Injection-molded glass-filled tank — nothing to rust at the seams.
• 1/2" FIP drain port: Drains elevated spas and tubs quickly, and accepts a standard spigot valve.

Specifications

• Filter area: 25 sq ft
• Connections: 1-1/2" FIP
• Drain port: 1/2" FIP
• Dimensions: 17-7/8" H x 10-1/2" W x 7-1/4" D
• Weight: 7 lb
• Side clearance required: 18" to lift the cartridge out
• Warranty: 2-year parts

Compatibility

• Replacement cartridge: CX225RE. The Microban-coated version is CX225XREM.
• Tank o-ring: CX120D
• Filter head with vent valve: CX120AA
• Vent valve with o-ring: ECX1322A
• Union elbow assembly: SPX1485BPAK, with SPX1485C gasket

Not compatible with: larger Star-Clear tanks. The C250, C500, C750 and C1200 use different elements — CX225RE will not fit them, and their cartridges will not fit the C225.

Includes

• (1) Filter tank
• (1) Filter head with pressure gauge and manual air relief
• (1) CX225RE cartridge element
• (1) Locking knob

Note: No pump is included — this is the filter only. Union fittings and plumbing are also not included.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size pool or spa will the C225 handle?

Up to 4,500 gallons on an 8-hour turnover, or 5,625 gallons if you run a 10-hour turnover. That covers most spas and small above-ground pools. Anything larger wants a bigger Star-Clear tank.

Does it come with a pump?

No. This is the filter on its own. Hayward sells a factory combo of this filter with a 0.6 HP PowerFlo pump under a separate model number if you need both.

Which replacement cartridge does it take?

CX225RE. There is also a Microban-coated version, CX225XREM, which is the same size and fit.

What size plumbing do I need?

1-1/2" FIP on the inlet and outlet. The drain port at the base is 1/2" FIP and will take a standard spigot valve.

How much room does it need?

Allow 18" of clearance on the side. That is what it takes to lift the cartridge straight up and out without unplumbing the filter.

When should I clean the cartridge?

Note the pressure gauge reading with a clean cartridge installed — that is your baseline. Clean the element when the gauge climbs meaningfully above it and flow drops off. Rinsing on schedule matters more than waiting for the water to cloud.

Can I vacuum the pool through this filter?

Not directly. Hayward's guidance is to run a suction vacuum through the skimmer or a dedicated suction port rather than connecting it to the filter.