Hayward DE Filter Grid Assembly | 24 Sq Ft | DEX2400DC

When a DE filter starts blowing powder back into the pool, or the pressure gauge will not come down after a backwash, the grids inside are usually finished. This is the complete internal stack for a 24 sq ft Hayward filter — eight grids, the collector manifold with its air relief, the bottom locator and the retainer rod, all built up and ready to drop into the tank. Hayward part number DEX2400DC, also sold as DEX2420DC.

Replace the cluster if

• DE is coming back into the pool: A grey cloud at the returns after recharging means the fabric has torn or the manifold has split.
• Pressure stays high after backwashing: Grids blinded with oil and scale, or a cracked collector, both hold pressure up.
• The filter needs cleaning constantly: Short cycles between backwashes point to reduced effective area.
• A grid has collapsed or the rod is bent: One failed grid throws the whole stack out of alignment.
• It has been five years or more: Grids are a wear part, not a permanent fitting.

What arrives

• (8) 12" DE grids, seven full and one partial — Unicel FS-2002
• (1) Top collector manifold, DEX2400C, with flex air relief DEX2400CR
• (1) Element locator, DEX2400H
• (1) Retainer rod DEX2400R, nut ECX176865 and two ECX1109 washers

Note: Genuine Hayward top and bottom manifolds with Unicel grid elements. DE powder is not included — budget around 6 lbs to recharge a 24 sq ft filter.

Will it fit your filter?

• Hayward Pro-Grid DE2420 — 24 sq ft
• Hayward Micro-Clear DE2400 — 24 sq ft

The model number is on the label on the filter tank. If it reads DE3620, DE4820, DE6020 or DE7220 you have a taller tank and need the matching larger cluster instead — the grids and rod are a different length.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this take to fit?

Most people have it done inside an hour. Shut off and drain the tank, pull the clamp band and lift the head, lift the old stack out, drop this one in, reseal and recharge with DE. The assembly arriving in one piece is what saves the time.

Do I need any special tools?

A socket set for the clamp band and some silicone lubricant for the tank o-ring. Nothing beyond that. Lubricate the o-ring before you reseal — a dry one is the usual cause of a leak after a teardown.

Why replace all eight grids rather than the torn one?

They wear at the same rate. A grid that tears after several seasons is telling you about the condition of the other seven, and swapping one at a time means going back into the tank repeatedly.

My filter has DE2400 on the label but this says DEX2400DC. Is that right?

Yes. DE2400 is the filter model, DEX2400DC is the part number for the grid assembly that goes inside it. You may also see it listed as DEX2420DC, which is the same assembly.

How much DE powder will I need?

Roughly 6 lbs for a 24 sq ft filter after a full teardown. Check the plate on your tank for the exact figure and add it slowly through the skimmer with the pump running.

How often should I be tearing the filter down?

Once a season for most pools, plus backwashing whenever pressure climbs 8 to 10 psi above its clean reading. Running a loaded filter is what shortens grid life more than anything else.