Cryspool® 09028 Filter Compatible with CC100, Clean & Clear
✅ PROS
- Genuine 50 sq ft filtration area with 10 pleat-per-inch density — not a flimsy knockoff
- Precisely machined ABS end caps that seat properly in Pentair housings without forcing
- Holds up to 7 psi differential without collapsing; pleats stay rigid through heavy debris loads
❌ CONS
- No brand markings on the cartridge itself — can be hard to identify later if you have multiple spares
- Packaging is thin cardboard; minor corner crush possible in shipping (doesn't affect function)
The Verdict
Let me save you the research time: the Cryspool 09028 is a direct replacement for Pentair’s Clean & Clear CC100 cartridge, and it costs about half of what the OEM part runs. The question is whether the savings come with a catch. After digging through 229 ratings and the technical specs, here’s the real story.
What you actually get
The box contains one filter cartridge rated at 50 square feet of filtration area — the same spec as the genuine Pentair CCP100/R173215. The media is a 10-pleat-per-inch polyester fabric, which matches the OEM density. That’s important: cheaper cartridges often use 8 pleats per inch, which means less surface area and shorter intervals between cleanings.
The end caps are ABS plastic with a center core that’s glued, not just friction-fit. This matters because a loose core will wobble under flow and eventually split the media. The Cryspool measures out at roughly 25 inches tall with a 7-inch outer diameter — dimensions that match the Pentair housing’s clearance specs.
How it performs in practice
Filtration quality: The 10-micron nominal rating captures the fine particles that cloud pool water — pollen, dead algae, sunscreen residue. If you’re seeing sparkle after a 24-hour run cycle, the cartridge is doing its job. Several buyers noted noticeable clarity improvement within a day of installation.
Flow rate: Because the pleat density matches OEM, you won’t lose pressure at the returns. One reviewer put it plainly: “Water pressure out of the pool jets actually improved compared to my old, clogged OEM cartridge.” That’s not a knock on the Cryspool — it’s what happens with fresh media — but it confirms the pleat geometry isn’t restrictive.
Durability: The polyester media holds up to repeated pressure washing. I’ve seen complaints about cartridges that shred after a few cleanings; that doesn’t appear here. The reinforced core and bonded end caps survive the 50-60 psi bursts from a garden hose without separating.
Where it falls short
Identification issue: The cartridge has no printed brand or model number. If you rotate multiple spares, you’ll need a Sharpie to mark which is which — otherwise you’re guessing which one has more runtime.
Packaging fragility: The thin cardboard box offers minimal crush protection. The cartridge itself arrived intact in most reports, but if you’re ordering early in the season, don’t expect pristine retail packaging. This is a functional product, not a display piece.
Fit tolerances: While most users report a snug, proper fit, a handful noted the cartridge seats slightly tighter in the Clean & Clear housing than the OEM. It’s not a defect — just a hair less clearance. If you have arthritic hands, you might need a bit more effort to slide it into place.
Who should buy this
The value-minded pool owner: If you’re comfortable replacing your own cartridge and don’t need the Pentair logo, this delivers 90% of the OEM performance at roughly half the price.
The dual-cartridge owner: If you run two filters in parallel (CC100 setups often pair them), buying two Cryspools saves serious money — enough to cover a spare.
Skip it if: You have a warranty that requires OEM parts, or you’re the type who wants absolute certainty on fit without any fuss. For those cases, spend the extra on the Pentair brand.
FAQ
Q: Does this fit the Pentair Clean & Clear CC100 and CCP100? A: Yes. The CCP100, CCP120, CC100, and the R173215 replacement all share the same cartridge dimensions. It also fits the Predator 100. The 50 sq ft rating matches all these models.
Q: How often should I clean it? A: With normal residential use (daily 4-6 hour pump cycles), expect 2-4 weeks between cleanings. Cartridge filters work best when pressure rises 7-10 psi above clean baseline. Pressure wash gently — don’t use a metal scraper on the pleats.
Q: Can I use this in a Pentair CCP200 (the bigger one)? A: No. The CCP200 uses a larger cartridge (75 sq ft). This is strictly for the 50 sq ft housings. Check your filter’s model number before ordering.
The Verdict
Buy it if: You want OEM-equivalent filtration at a budget price and don’t mind the lack of branding.
Skip it if: You need absolute certainty on a warranty claim or prefer the exact OEM fitment.
Rating: 4.6/5 — The Cryspool 09028 delivers on the essentials: correct dimensions, proper filtration density, and solid construction. The minor annoyances (no branding, thin packaging) don’t affect pool performance. For the price delta versus Pentair’s OEM, this is the smart buy for most pool owners.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.