Intex Type A Pool Filter Cartridge: Compatibility, Cleaning & Replacement
If your Intex cartridge filter pump uses a Type A cartridge, replacing it should be simple.
The problem is that there are several similar-looking Intex cartridges, older and newer pump model numbers still appear online, and Amazon listings often bundle the same cartridge into different pack quantities.
The two numbers worth remembering are:
29000E → one Type A cartridge
29002E → genuine Intex twin pack
The same Type A cartridge is also currently available in 3-, 4- and 8-pack quantities, so you can buy more than two at a time if you prefer to keep several replacements on hand.
The cartridge itself is approximately 8 inches high and 4.25 inches in outside diameter, and Intex uses it across several of its smaller and mid-range Krystal Clear cartridge pumps. The current genuine twin pack is sold as model 29002E.
More importantly, you don't necessarily need to throw a cartridge away simply because it has been in the filter for two weeks.
For us, condition and restored water flow matter more than an arbitrary date on the calendar.
Quick Answer
If your pump specifies an Intex Type A cartridge, we'd stick with the genuine Type A size rather than guessing from dimensions alone.
Type A cartridges are currently available in several pack quantities. For most pool owners, we'd start with the two-pack because it gives you one cartridge in use and a clean spare ready for rotation. Larger 3-, 4- and 8-packs can make sense if you want more replacements on hand.
Intex recommends replacing Type A cartridges every two weeks for maximum efficiency. We see that as a maintenance guideline, not an automatic disposal schedule.
If the pleats rinse clean, the cartridge remains undamaged and your normal return flow comes back after cleaning, we'd continue using it.
Replace it when cleaning no longer restores performance, the pleats or end caps become damaged, or the cartridge becomes permanently clogged or distorted.
Best for: Owners of compatible Intex cartridge pumps who want genuine replacement media and a spare cartridge ready to rotate in.
Skip it if: Your filter uses a different cartridge type—particularly the larger C2500, which uses Type B.
Intex Type A Cartridge Specs at a Glance
Intex's current Type A twin-pack page identifies 29002E and recommends replacing cartridges every two weeks, while current Intex replacement-parts listings identify 29000E as the individual Type A replacement cartridge.
We'd still judge replacement primarily by cartridge condition and whether normal water flow returns after cleaning.
Which Pumps Use an Intex Type A Cartridge?
This is the first thing we'd check before ordering.
Intex has used Type A cartridges across multiple generations of cartridge filter pumps, including 530, 1000 and 1500 GPH systems.
The current C1000 also explicitly uses a Type A cartridge, and the C1500 setup we recently reviewed uses Type A media as well. Intex's older Type A product documentation lists models such as 28603EG, 28637EG and 28635EG, which is why you may see those numbers on packaging and retailer pages even if you own a newer C-series pump.
For the pumps currently most relevant to Above Ground Splash readers:
The important takeaway is simple:
Don't buy a replacement cartridge based only on what it looks like. Check the cartridge type specified for your actual pump.
If you own the larger C2500, this isn't the cartridge you need.
29000E vs 29002E: What's the Difference?
This is much simpler than the model numbers make it sound.
29000E is the individual Type A cartridge.
29002E is the genuine Intex two-pack.
The filtration media is the same basic Type A format; you're mainly choosing how many replacements you want to keep on hand.
For most above-ground pool owners, we'd buy the two-pack.
Not because two cartridges somehow filter better, but because having a clean spare makes maintenance much easier.
You can remove a dirty cartridge, install the spare immediately and then take your time rinsing the dirty one properly.
That is much better than leaving the filtration system off while you clean and reinstall the only cartridge you own.
Is the Intex Type A Twin Pack Worth Buying?
For us, yes.
A cartridge filter depends entirely on water being able to pass through clean pleated media.
When your only cartridge becomes heavily clogged, damaged or simply reaches the end of its useful life, filtration performance drops until you replace it.
Having two means you're not caught without a usable filter halfway through the weekend.
Amazon sometimes offers the Type A cartridge in larger multipacks as well, but those quantities and bundle arrangements change regularly.
We wouldn't automatically buy the largest pack.
For most seasonal above-ground pools, two or a small multipack gives you enough flexibility without storing more cartridges than you're likely to need.
How Often Should You Replace an Intex Type A Cartridge?
Intex recommends replacing the cartridge approximately every two weeks for maximum filtration efficiency.
We think that needs some context.
A cartridge that has spent two weeks filtering a heavily used, uncovered pool during hot weather is very different from one filtering a lightly used pool that's covered most of the week.
Instead of automatically throwing it away every 14 days, we'd look at three things:
Can you clean it properly?
Is the cartridge still physically sound?
Does normal water flow return after cleaning?
If the answer to all three is yes, we'd keep using it.
Manufacturer replacement schedules are useful as a reminder to inspect the cartridge.
They shouldn't stop you using a perfectly serviceable cartridge that still cleans and performs properly.
Signs Your Type A Cartridge Actually Needs Replacing
A dirty cartridge isn't automatically a worn-out cartridge.
We would replace it when you start seeing problems such as:
torn, frayed or damaged pleats;
cracked or distorted end caps;
pleats that stay heavily clogged after thorough rinsing;
visibly collapsed or misshapen filter media;
return flow that doesn't recover after cleaning;
a cartridge that becomes blocked again unusually quickly despite otherwise normal pool conditions.
If the cartridge is simply covered in loose dirt, grass or fine debris, clean it first.
There's little benefit in throwing away reusable filter media every time it gets dirty—that's what the cartridge is designed to collect.
How to Clean an Intex Type A Filter Cartridge
Cleaning is straightforward.
First, switch off and disconnect the filter pump according to its instructions before opening the housing.
Release any trapped pressure, remove the filter-housing cover and lift out the cartridge.
Use a garden hose to rinse between the pleats, working your way around the entire cartridge rather than simply spraying the outside surface.
The aim is to flush debris out from between the folds where much of the dirt accumulates.
We wouldn't use a pressure washer or an excessively aggressive jet that risks damaging the pleated material.
After rinsing, check the cartridge for damage before reinstalling it.
If cleaning restores normal flow and the filter remains structurally sound, put it back into service.
If the cartridge still restricts flow badly after a thorough rinse, that's a much stronger reason to replace it.
If you clean cartridges regularly, a dedicated spray tool can also make it easier to rinse debris from between the pleats. We take a closer look at one option in our Aquatix Pro Pool Filter Cartridge Cleaner review.
Should You Keep a Spare Type A Cartridge?
Yes — we would.
This is probably the most practical reason to buy the two-pack.
When the cartridge needs cleaning, you can:
switch the pump off;
remove the dirty cartridge;
fit the clean spare;
restart filtration;
clean the removed cartridge properly without rushing.
That is especially useful during an algae problem or cloudy-water recovery when the filter may load with debris much more quickly than usual.
Rather than repeatedly stopping circulation while you clean one cartridge, you can rotate between two.
Genuine Intex vs Aftermarket Type A Cartridges
There are plenty of third-party cartridges sold as replacements for Intex Type A filters.
Some may work perfectly well.
But replacement-cartridge quality can vary in areas such as pleat construction, fit and media density.
When the genuine Intex cartridge is available at a reasonable price, we'd generally choose the OEM cartridge because fit and compatibility are straightforward.
The price difference usually isn't large enough for us to make a major compromise on the part doing the actual filtration.
That doesn't mean an aftermarket cartridge is automatically poor quality.
It simply means we'd want a clear reason—such as substantially better value or proven performance—before choosing it over the genuine replacement.
Type A vs Type B: Don't Order the Wrong Cartridge
The Type A and Type B cartridges perform the same basic job, but they are not interchangeable sizes.
Type A is used in smaller and mid-range Intex cartridge pumps such as the C1000 and C1500.
The larger C2500 uses Type B.
So if you've recently upgraded from a C1500 to a C2500, don't assume the Type A cartridges you already own will carry over to the new pump.
If you need the larger replacement, see our Intex Type B Filter Cartridge guide for dimensions, compatibility, pack sizes, cleaning and when we'd actually replace one.
For more on the larger system, see our Intex C2500 Cartridge Filter Pump review.
Which Intex Pumps Do We Pair With Type A Cartridges?
Intex C1000
The C1000 is our smaller-pool cartridge option.
It uses a Type A cartridge and provides around 750 GPH of system flow.
We'd generally look at it for typical round pools up to around 12 ft, rather than pushing it toward Intex's maximum stated pool capacity.
For the full pump review, see our Intex 1000 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump review.
Intex C1500
The C1500 also uses Type A media but steps system flow up substantially to 1,180 GPH.
That's our preferred cartridge option for typical round pools up to around 14–15 ft, depending on actual water volume and depth.
If you already own the C1500 and are simply looking for a replacement cartridge, the genuine Type A is exactly the media we'd start with.
Read our Intex C1500 Cartridge Filter Pump review for the full sizing and turnover discussion.
What We'd Keep in Mind
It Still Needs Hands-On Maintenance
There is no backwash setting.
When the cartridge gets dirty, you physically remove it and clean it.
If you'd rather leave the filtration media inside the tank and clean it using a valve, sand filtration may suit you better.
Heavy Debris Can Mean Frequent Cleaning
A cartridge may need rinsing much more often during:
an algae cleanup;
heavy pollen;
windy weather;
frequent swimming;
periods when the pool has been left uncovered.
That's normal.
The cartridge is doing its job by trapping that material.
Who Is the Intex Type A Cartridge Best For?
This is the obvious replacement choice if you own a compatible Intex filter pump and want genuine OEM filter media without complicating the purchase.
It's particularly relevant to C1000 and C1500 owners, as well as several older 530–1500 GPH Intex cartridge systems.
The twin pack makes the most sense if you want to rotate between a clean cartridge and one waiting to be rinsed.
Who Should Skip It?
Don't buy Type A simply because you own an Intex pool.
The cartridge is matched to the filter pump, not the pool itself.
If your pump specifies Type B or another cartridge size, buy the correct media for that system.
And if you're buying large quantities because you expect to throw every cartridge away after exactly two weeks, we'd reconsider that approach first.
Cleaning and condition should be part of the decision.
Which Type A Pack Size Should You Buy?
The current listing gives you several quantity options, including 2-, 3-, 4- and 8-packs.
They're the same Type A replacement cartridge, so the best choice really comes down to how often your filter needs attention and how many spares you want to keep around.
For most above-ground pool owners, we'd still choose the two-pack. It gives you one cartridge in the filter and a clean spare ready to go while the dirty one is being rinsed.
A 3- or 4-pack starts making more sense if your pool gets heavy use, collects a lot of debris or you simply want enough cartridges to rotate throughout the season without ordering again.
The 8-pack is probably more than most single-pool owners need unless you go through cartridges unusually quickly, maintain more than one compatible filter pump or prefer buying a full season's supply at once.
We wouldn't automatically buy the biggest pack simply because the cost per cartridge is lower. If you're cleaning and reusing cartridges properly, you may get considerably more use from each one than the manufacturer's two-week replacement guideline suggests.
Related Filtration Guides
If you're using Type A cartridges, these are the most relevant filtration pages to read next.
👉 For smaller pools, see our Intex 1000 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump review.
👉 For medium-sized pools, read our Intex C1500 Cartridge Filter Pump review.
👉 If you're considering a larger cartridge system, see our Intex C2500 Cartridge Filter Pump review - but remember that the C2500 uses Type B rather than Type A.
👉 For more filtration reviews, filter-media advice and pump-sizing guides, visit our Filtration & Pumps section.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Intex Type A cartridge part number?
The individual Intex Type A replacement cartridge is 29000E. The genuine Intex two-pack is 29002E.
What size is an Intex Type A cartridge?
The Type A cartridge is approximately 8 inches high and 4.25 inches in outside diameter, with an approximately 2-inch center opening.
Does the Intex C1000 use a Type A cartridge?
Yes. Intex's current C1000 documentation specifies a Type A replacement cartridge.
Does the Intex C1500 use a Type A cartridge?
Yes. The C1500 uses Type A cartridge media, making the genuine Intex Type A replacement suitable when you need a new filter.
Does the Intex C2500 use a Type A cartridge?
No. The C2500 uses the larger Type B cartridge, so Type A cartridges should not be purchased for that pump.
How often should I replace an Intex Type A filter cartridge?
Intex recommends replacement approximately every two weeks for maximum efficiency. We would also consider the cartridge's actual condition. If it rinses clean, remains undamaged and normal flow returns after cleaning, it may still be serviceable.
Can you wash and reuse an Intex Type A cartridge?
Yes. Type A cartridges are designed to be removed and rinsed during routine maintenance. Replace the cartridge once cleaning no longer restores normal flow or the media becomes damaged or permanently clogged.
Is it worth buying a two-pack of Intex Type A cartridges?
We think so. Keeping a clean spare lets you restart filtration immediately while the dirty cartridge is being properly rinsed and inspected.
Are aftermarket Type A cartridges as good as genuine Intex filters?
Some aftermarket cartridges may work well, but construction and fit can vary. When the genuine Intex cartridge is reasonably priced, we'd generally choose the OEM version for straightforward compatibility.
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