Pentair Sta-Rite System:3 vs. Clean & Clear Plus: Filter Comparison

The Pentair Sta-Rite System:3 SM Series Modular Media Filter and the Pentair Clean & Clear Plus Pool Filter Cartridge are both high-performance cartridge pool filters, but they differ in several key aspects:

1. Design and Media Capacity:

• Pentair Sta-Rite System:3 SM Series Modular Media Filter:
  • This filter uses a modular media design, which means it holds a larger filtration media surface area compared to standard cartridge filters.
  • It provides greater dirt-holding capacity, allowing for less frequent cleaning and longer operation between maintenance cycles.
  • The design is modular, which makes it easier to replace only the specific media module when needed, without having to change the entire unit.
• Pentair Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge Filter:
  • The Clean & Clear Plus is a classic multi-cartridge system, typically featuring 4 individual cartridges.
  • While it also offers a significant amount of filtration surface area, it’s more conventional compared to the modular design of the Sta-Rite System:3.
  • The filter is known for its straightforward design and ease of maintenance but may require more frequent cleanings in comparison to the Sta-Rite.

2. Filtration Efficiency:

• Sta-Rite System:3:
  • The larger filtration area provided by the modular media design results in higher filtration efficiency. This allows the filter to trap finer particles and handle more debris before it needs to be cleaned.
• Clean & Clear Plus:
  • Still highly efficient, but the smaller individual cartridge areas mean it may not have quite the same debris-holding capacity as the Sta-Rite System:3. This can lead to slightly more frequent cleanings, depending on the pool environment.

3. Construction and Durability:

• Sta-Rite System:3:
  • It is designed for heavy-duty use with a rugged composite resin tank that resists corrosion and harsh conditions, making it highly durable for long-term use.
• Clean & Clear Plus:
  • The Clean & Clear Plus also features durable materials but has a more standard design and may not be as robust as the Sta-Rite System:3, particularly in high-demand or large pool environments.

4. Flow Rates and Pool Size:

• Sta-Rite System:3:
  • The larger media capacity allows it to handle higher flow rates, making it suitable for larger pools or commercial environments.
• Clean & Clear Plus:
  • Ideal for residential pools, the Clean & Clear Plus works well in medium to large pool systems but may not handle the same high flow rates as the Sta-Rite System:3.

5. Maintenance:

• Sta-Rite System:3:
  • Due to its larger debris-holding capacity, this filter requires less frequent maintenance. The modular design also simplifies cleaning and replacement.
• Clean & Clear Plus:
  • While easy to maintain, it may require more frequent cleaning compared to the Sta-Rite due to its smaller debris-holding capacity.

6. Cost:

• Sta-Rite System:3:
  • Typically, the Sta-Rite System:3 is more expensive due to its advanced design, higher capacity, and durability.
• Clean & Clear Plus:
  • Generally more affordable, making it an attractive option for residential users who need reliable filtration but don’t require the enhanced capacity of the Sta-Rite.

Summary:

• The Pentair Sta-Rite System:3 SM Series Modular Media Filter is designed for heavy-duty use, with a higher dirt-holding capacity, greater filtration efficiency, and a modular design, making it ideal for larger pools or environments requiring less frequent maintenance.
• The Pentair Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge Filter is a more traditional, cost-effective option that is easier to maintain, perfect for residential pools but may require more frequent cleanings due to its smaller capacity.