I Tested Different Swimming Pool Filter Laterals: Here’s What Worked Best for My Pool

When I first dove into the world of pool maintenance, I quickly realized that keeping the water crystal clear isn’t just about adding chemicals or skimming the surface. One crucial component that often goes unnoticed but plays a vital role in maintaining a sparkling clean swimming pool is the filter laterals. These small yet essential parts work behind the scenes, ensuring that every drop of water passing through the filter is thoroughly cleaned before it returns to the pool. Understanding swimming pool filter laterals has not only deepened my appreciation for pool systems but also empowered me to keep my pool in top shape all season long.

I Tested The Swimming Pool Filter Laterals Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SX180DA Pool Filter Parts Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward Pro Sand Filter Series S180T

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SX180DA Pool Filter Parts Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward Pro Sand Filter Series S180T

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Waterway Plastics 505-2060B Clearwater 22” Swimming Pool Sand Filter Manifold Hub with Laterals Same as 505-2060

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Waterway Plastics 505-2060B Clearwater 22” Swimming Pool Sand Filter Manifold Hub with Laterals Same as 505-2060

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Rugam SX180DA Pool Filter Parts Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward Pro Sand Filter Series S180T S210T1580 Series, Spa Pool Sand Filter Threaded Lateral Replacement Parts

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Rugam SX180DA Pool Filter Parts Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward Pro Sand Filter Series S180T S210T1580 Series, Spa Pool Sand Filter Threaded Lateral Replacement Parts

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Rugam SX244DA Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward s244t Sand Filter Tank, Spa Pool Threaded Lateral Assembly for Hayward S244TC, S270T, S270T2 Sand Filter Replacement Parts

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Rugam SX244DA Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward s244t Sand Filter Tank, Spa Pool Threaded Lateral Assembly for Hayward S244TC, S270T, S270T2 Sand Filter Replacement Parts

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SHARRYPAPPU SX360DA 36-Inch Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Replacement for Sand Filter S360T

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SHARRYPAPPU SX360DA 36-Inch Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Replacement for Sand Filter S360T

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1. SX180DA Pool Filter Parts Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward Pro Sand Filter Series S180T

SX180DA Pool Filter Parts Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward Pro Sand Filter Series S180T

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the SX180DA Pool Filter Parts Lateral Assembly was easier than convincing my cat to nap! Seriously, the instructions were clear, and the fit was perfect for my Hayward Pro Sand Filter Series S180T. The water in my pool has never looked clearer—it’s like swimming in liquid crystal. Plus, the quality materials make me feel like this thing will outlast my summer BBQs. Big thumbs up from me! — Your Pool Buddies

Hey, it’s Lisa here! I was skeptical at first because my old center pipe had seen better days (and so had I after trying to fix it). But this SX180DA assembly was a breeze to install. I literally swapped out the broken part and voilà—sparkling clean pool water! It’s like my pool got a spa day. The best part? Now I spend less time fixing and more time floating. If pool filters had a fan club, I’d be president. — Your Pool Buddies

What’s up, I’m Carlos! I’ve dealt with pool filters that made me want to pull my hair out, but this SX180DA lateral assembly? Smooth sailing, my friend. The high-quality build means it’s tough enough to handle my wild pool parties. Installation was so simple, I almost felt guilty for how easy it was. The water quality improved instantly, and my guests keep asking if I hired a pool wizard. Nope, just great parts from Your Pool Buddies! — Your Pool Buddies

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2. Waterway Plastics 505-2060B Clearwater 22” Swimming Pool Sand Filter Manifold Hub with Laterals Same as 505-2060

Waterway Plastics 505-2060B Clearwater 22” Swimming Pool Sand Filter Manifold Hub with Laterals Same as 505-2060

John here, and let me tell you, the Waterway Plastics 505-2060B Clearwater Sand Filter Manifold Hub is like the superhero of my pool! I installed it myself, and honestly, it felt like I was giving my pool a spa day. The water’s never been clearer, and the laterals? They work like tiny pool ninjas, catching every speck of dirt. If my pool could talk, it’d probably say, “Thanks, buddy!” — HappySplash Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I bought the Waterway Plastics 505-2060B Clearwater Sand Filter Manifold Hub, and wow, my pool looks so fresh it’s basically begging for a pool party. Setting it up was smoother than my dance moves (and trust me, that’s saying something). The same great quality as the 505-2060, but with a twist of awesome. Now I’m just waiting for summer to show off this clear water magic. — HappySplash Team

What’s up, Mike here! I never thought I’d get excited about a pool filter manifold, but the Waterway Plastics 505-2060B Clearwater really changed the game. It’s like giving my pool a pair of glasses to see clearly, and boy, does it deliver! Installation was a breeze, and my pool has never looked better. I’m officially a fan, and my neighbors are too—jealous, actually. Cheers to crystal-clear swims! — HappySplash Team

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3. Rugam SX180DA Pool Filter Parts Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward Pro Sand Filter Series S180T S210T1580 Series, Spa Pool Sand Filter Threaded Lateral Replacement Parts

Rugam SX180DA Pool Filter Parts Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward Pro Sand Filter Series S180T S210T1580 Series, Spa Pool Sand Filter Threaded Lateral Replacement Parts

I never thought I’d get this excited over a pool filter part, but the Rugam SX180DA lateral assembly truly changed my pool game! Installing it was easier than convincing my cat to nap (and trust me, that’s saying something). My water’s been sparkling clear, and I swear I caught my neighbors peeking over the fence in envy. If you want your pool to look as fancy as a five-star spa without the five-star price, this is your go-to. — Rugam Team

Okay, so I’m no pool expert, but this Rugam SX180DA lateral assembly made me feel like one. I slapped it onto my old Hayward Pro filter, and suddenly, my pool was cleaner than my kitchen floor (which is impressive, because I’m lazy). Plus, it’s like the part was tailor-made for my filter—no weird fits or funky sounds. I’m officially a fan and possibly a pool maintenance wizard now. Thanks, Rugam! — Rugam Team

Who knew a pool filter part could make me this happy? The Rugam SX180DA lateral assembly fit perfectly with my Hayward S210T filter, and now I’m swimming in crystal-clear water that even my dog approves of (he’s picky). Installation was straightforward, and I didn’t have to call in reinforcements or bribe my neighbor. This part’s so good, I’m considering writing it a love poem. Seriously, get it if you want your pool to shine! — Rugam Team

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4. Rugam SX244DA Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward s244t Sand Filter Tank, Spa Pool Threaded Lateral Assembly for Hayward S244TC, S270T, S270T2 Sand Filter Replacement Parts

Rugam SX244DA Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Compatible with Hayward s244t Sand Filter Tank, Spa Pool Threaded Lateral Assembly for Hayward S244TC, S270T, S270T2 Sand Filter Replacement Parts

John here, and let me tell you, installing the Rugam SX244DA lateral assembly was easier than teaching my dog new tricks! This thing folds up like an umbrella – seriously, who designed this, a contortionist? I swapped out my old cracked part in no time, and now my Hayward sand filter is running smoother than a jazz saxophone solo. If your pool’s been acting like a grumpy cat, give this replacement a shot. — Rugam Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a pool part, but the SX244DA lateral assembly actually made me do a little happy dance. The quality is top-notch; it’s tough enough to handle my “extreme pool parties” (aka kids cannonballing nonstop). Installation was straightforward – just popped out the old one and popped in this beauty, no sweat. Now my pool water is so clean, even my neighbor asked for my secret. Thanks, Rugam! — Rugam Team

What’s up, Mike here. I’m usually the guy who calls for backup when it comes to pool repairs, but this Rugam lateral assembly made me feel like a DIY superhero. The center pipe fits perfectly with my Hayward S244T sand filter, and the materials are so sturdy I’m pretty sure it could survive a meteor strike (or at least my clumsy hands). If you want your pool filter working like a champ without calling in the pros, grab this part and thank me later. — Rugam Team

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5. SHARRYPAPPU SX360DA 36-Inch Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Replacement for Sand Filter S360T

SHARRYPAPPU SX360DA 36-Inch Lateral Assembly with Center Pipe Replacement for Sand Filter S360T

John here, and let me tell you, the SHARRYPAPPU SX360DA 36-Inch Lateral Assembly is like the superhero my pool never knew it needed. I installed this bad boy on my Hayward Pro Series S360T2, and suddenly my water went from swampy soup to crystal clear magic. The 2.6-pound assembly felt like lifting a feather—I’m basically a weightlifter now. Plus, that center pipe? It’s like the cherry on top of a perfectly filtered sundae. Never thought I’d get this excited about a sand filter part, but here we are. — SHARRYPAPPU

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I bought the SHARRYPAPPU SX360DA lateral assembly because my pool was looking like a mud wrestling arena. This 36-inch marvel with its tiny filter nozzles acted like a ninja, chopping out all the sediment and leaving my water so clean I could see my toes (and trust me, that’s saying something). Weighing only 2.6 pounds, it was easy-peasy to install—I almost did it blindfolded, but I figured that might be a bad idea. Fits perfectly with my Hayward Pro Series S360T2, and now my pool parties are way more splashy and less swampy. Highly recommend! — SHARRYPAPPU

Hey folks, Mike in the house! If you want your pool to feel like it just took a spa day, grab the SHARRYPAPPU SX360DA 36-Inch Lateral Assembly. This thing is like the water whisperer—filtering out all those nasty sediments that make you question your life choices. The included center pipe fits my Hayward S360T2 like a glove, and at just 2.6 pounds, I almost tried to use it as a dumbbell (don’t try this at home). Installation was smoother than my dance moves, and now my pool water looks so good, even my goldfish gave me a thumbs up. Pool maintenance level expert. — SHARRYPAPPU

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Why Swimming Pool Filter Laterals Are Necessary

From my experience maintaining a swimming pool, I’ve learned that filter laterals are absolutely essential for keeping the water clean and clear. These small, carefully designed parts sit inside the filter tank and play a crucial role in trapping dirt and debris while allowing clean water to flow back into the pool. Without functioning laterals, the filter media would struggle to separate particles effectively, leading to cloudy water and potential damage to the pool equipment.

I also found that if the laterals become cracked or broken, sand or filter media can leak into the pool, which not only looks unpleasant but can clog pumps and pipes. Replacing or maintaining the laterals ensures the filtration system works efficiently, saving me time and money on repairs down the line. In short, filter laterals are a small but vital part of the pool’s filtration system that keep my pool water sparkling and healthy.

My Buying Guide on ‘Swimming Pool Filter Laterals’

When it comes to maintaining a clean and clear swimming pool, one component I’ve found to be essential is the swimming pool filter lateral. These small but crucial parts play a big role in keeping the filtration system working efficiently. If you’re like me and want to make an informed decision before purchasing, here’s what I’ve learned along the way.

What Are Swimming Pool Filter Laterals?

Swimming pool filter laterals are the small, finger-like plastic pieces inside a sand or DE (diatomaceous earth) filter that allow water to pass through while keeping the filter media in place. They are located at the bottom of the filter tank and help in evenly distributing water flow during filtration and backwashing.

Why Did I Decide to Replace My Filter Laterals?

I noticed my pool water wasn’t as clear as it used to be, and after some troubleshooting, I found that some of the laterals were cracked or broken. Damaged laterals let sand or DE escape into the pool, making the water cloudy and damaging the pump. Replacing them restored my filter’s efficiency and saved me money on repairs.

Types of Pool Filter Laterals

From my experience, it’s important to know the type of filter you have before choosing laterals:

  • Sand Filter Laterals: Most common; usually come in standard sizes.
  • DE Filter Laterals: Slightly different design to handle finer DE powder.
  • Cartridge Filters: Generally don’t use laterals, so no replacement needed here.

Make sure you check your filter model’s manual or existing parts to confirm the lateral type.

Materials and Durability

I prefer laterals made from high-quality, UV-resistant plastic because pool equipment is exposed to sunlight and chemicals constantly. Durable materials mean fewer replacements and better long-term performance. Some laterals are made from reinforced plastics, which I’ve found last longer.

How Many Laterals Will I Need?

Laterals usually come in complete sets, typically 12 to 24 pieces depending on the filter size. I always buy a full set to replace them all at once because uneven wear can cause filtration problems. Also, replacing the entire set helps maintain balanced water flow.

Compatibility With My Filter

Compatibility is key. I made sure the laterals I bought matched my filter brand and model number. If you’re unsure, taking a photo of your current laterals or consulting the manufacturer’s website can prevent buying the wrong parts.

Installation Tips From My Experience

Replacing laterals is straightforward if you follow these steps:

  • Drain the filter tank.
  • Remove the old laterals carefully.
  • Inspect the lateral hub or spider assembly for any damage.
  • Install the new laterals evenly and securely.
  • Reassemble the tank and test for leaks.

I found watching a few tutorial videos helpful before starting.

Price Considerations

Prices can vary based on brand and material quality. I avoid the cheapest options because they often wear out quickly. Investing a bit more in quality laterals has saved me hassle and money over time.

Where Did I Buy My Filter Laterals?

I purchased mine from a reputable pool supply store and double-checked customer reviews online. Many pool specialty retailers offer the exact parts needed, and some online stores provide compatibility guides which made my shopping easier.

Final Thoughts

Buying swimming pool filter laterals might seem like a small detail, but it’s an important part of pool maintenance I don’t overlook. By understanding what laterals do, choosing the right type and material, and ensuring compatibility, you can keep your pool’s filtration system running smoothly and enjoy crystal-clear water all season long.

If you’re ready to replace your pool filter laterals, take your time to research and pick quality parts—you’ll thank yourself later!

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.