Unicel
Pentair Quad D.E. 80 Replacement Cartridge Set | C-6980-4 (4-Pack)
Regular price
$354.95
Sale price$389.95
Regular price
$354.95
Sale price$389.95you save $35.00
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Key Benefits + Fitment (Will This Work For Me?)
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Restores full 80 sq. ft. filtration capacity for Pentair Quad D.E. 80 filters
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Fits Pentair Quad D.E. 80 (Model 188593) — full 4-pack replacement set
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Unicel C-6980-4 replacement cartridges (Replaces Pentair 178655)
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Designed for D.E. or D.E. alternative coating to achieve 3–5 micron water clarity
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Eliminates high PSI and restricted flow caused by oil-blinded or debris-loaded cartridges
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High-density reinforced polyester media maintains proper flow, pressure, and skimming
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Full 4-pack replacement keeps hydraulic load balanced and prevents premature failure
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Ideal fix if your filter shows short cycles, rising clean PSI, cracked end caps, or fabric fuzzing
Restoring System Filtration Performance
In a Quad D.E. system, the four cartridges work in tandem to create 80 square feet of surface area. Over time, the polyester media in these cartridges becomes "blinded"—a condition where oils, minerals, and deeply embedded debris can no longer be removed by backwashing or manual cleaning. This leads to restricted flow, higher-than-normal operating pressures, and increased wear on your pump motor. Replacing the full set with high-density Reemay fabric ensures that your filter maintains the flow rates required for proper heating, salt-chlorine generation, and effective skimming.
When to Replace Your Quad D.E. Cartridges
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Short Filter Cycles: If the pressure rises to clean-starting levels within days of a thorough cleaning or backwashing.
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Cracked End Caps: If the plastic headers on the top or bottom of the cartridge show visible hairline fractures, which allow unfiltered D.E. to bypass the grid and return to the pool.
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Fabric "Fuzzing": When the pleated material begins to fray or lose its rigidity, reducing its ability to hold a uniform D.E. cake.
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High PSI: If your baseline "clean" pressure remains 8–10 PSI higher than when the system was new.
System Specifications
| Feature |
Specification |
| Brand |
Unicel / Replacement Tier |
| Model / Part Number |
C-6980-4 (Set of 4) |
| Compatibility |
Pentair Quad D.E. 80 (Filter Model 188593) |
| Total Filtration Area |
80 Square Feet (20 Sq. Ft. per Element) |
| Material |
High-Density Reinforced Polyester |
| Length |
26 13/16" |
| Outer Diameter |
6 1/4" |
| Retail Equivalent |
Pentair 178655 |
Why Full Set Replacement is Critical
We strongly advise against replacing single cartridges within a Quad D.E. system. Because water takes the path of least resistance, mixing one new cartridge with three old, partially clogged ones creates uneven flow distribution. This puts excessive hydraulic pressure on the new cartridge, leading to premature failure and inefficient filtration. Replacing the full 4-pack ensures a balanced load across the entire manifold, extending the life of your equipment and maintaining consistent water chemistry.
Buy with Confidence from Benchmark Pool Supply
Benchmark Pool Supply specializes in high-performance filtration components for the trade. We know that Pentair Quad D.E. owners expect crystal clear water, and that requires cartridges that can withstand the unique pressures of D.E. systems. We skip the low-grade "generic" fabrics found on discount marketplaces in favor of professional-grade media that holds its pleat shape under load. When you buy from Benchmark, you’re getting parts verified by pool pros who understand the specific requirements of D.E. filtration.
Pressure gauge or air relief broken? Check out our filter parts for genuine replacements!
