Hayward DE pool filter?
 

Anyone got any idea at all as to why a 7 yr old filter would crack across the bottom of the base?

I clean it and put it in heated storage(dry) every winter

it's been running fine for a month, but on startup today I heard a loud crack and observed water pouring out the bottom.:(

Fiberglass right? not stainless?

Some sort of frp or plastic right

EC65

What type of filter do you have? Sand, DE or Cartridge. The body or shell is made of injection molded plastic. Any chance some water was left in it or it was not totally drained during the winter and cracked. During operation it is under pressure which probably opened up the crack and caused failure. Just guessing.

Sorry, missed the headline mentioning DE. Is it the Perflex filter or the vertical grid DE? In either case the body is injection molded plastic, could it have been dropped or hit. I have seen filters fail in this fashion, but usually due to freeze crack.

I'm curious why it cracked. By chance did you leave any of the valves closed so the filter's (outgoing water) pressure built up, therefore cracking the base?

If not I'd try to get a (free) replacement from Hayward.

Edit, OK, duh...running for a month. I still haven't opened my pool.....

Blockage or built up pressure? Also I have heard that there is an algae or bacteria that can grow on the filter elements and clog it.

I would also expect some weakening after 7 years due to UV.

Some of the literature states a 10 year tank warranty. May or may not be prorated.

New units made of:

-Heavy-duty filter tank injection-molded of high-strength Duralon™ for dependable, corrosion-free performance

-PermaGlass XL™ filter tanks made from durable glass reinforced copolymer to meet the demands of the toughest applications and environmental conditions, including in-floor cleaning systems

You may be able to get replacement parts online (eBay or other sites). I have a Hayward filter and heater for my pool and found that replacements parts vary in prices, so shop around.

I would think pressure cycling and a void or knit line in the molding process. Pool chemicals do a number on the plastic no matter what it is.

Call Hayward customer service, they will probably have someone out to look at it. I know Pentair would. Replacement parts should be easily obtained.