generic spa filter question

[Matt Foley]

I think I need to replace the filter in my Marquis Retreat. I was hoping to buy a generic brand on-line, but I can't find the part number that I would need. Does anyone know?

Also, how do generic brands stack up to theose manufactured by the dealers?

Gracias tanto

[hottubdan]

In general generic filters have the same filter media as the ones manufacturers distribute.  I am not aware of any spa manufacturer who actually makes filters.

However, have you considered supporting the company that is getting you a new cover?

[Jacuzzi Jim]

 Would agree with Dan to support youf local guy, If its a single filter should be a
 UNC 4950 or the new # FC 2390  

[hottub.pool_boy]

Hot and Jac, thanks...that's what helps keep us around.

[Matt Foley]

Ummmmmm.... My local guy wants $68.00 and I can get one on-line for less than $30.00. I'd love to support my local guy, but I think paying double for anything is asinine....Don't you?

[Reese]

Ummmmmm.... My local guy wants $68.00 and I can get one on-line for less than $30.00. I'd love to support my local guy, but I think paying double for anything is asinine....Don't you?

I agree, if it is truly the same product.  Just be sure you are comparing apples to apples.  Some aftermarket filters are constructed with cheaper media -- making them less effective, harder to clean, and probably shorter-lived.  I purchased a set on-line based on price once, and found out the hard way that all filters are not the same.  Had I made the right choice, I still would have saved a few bucks compared to my dealer's price, but in hindsight... his markup wasn't bad for knowing which filter brand was best, keeping it in stock, and knowing the correct model off the top of his head.

[Matt Foley]

The brand I was looking at is Unicel. From what I've read here, they are very highly rated.

[Reese]

The brand I was looking at is Unicel. From what I've read here, they are very highly rated.

Yes.  That is what the dealer carried, and the one I wished I had purchased either from him or on-line, because it looked more like my OEM filter.  I got a cheaper brand from one of the main on-line stores (not Doc).  I would describe the Unicel media as more like a nylon fabric with wide pleats, while the cheaper filter looks more like paper, and tightly packed.

May I ask where you found it for $30?  I'll be needing a set of replacements soon.

[Matt Foley]

I found them on eBay from a much praised dealer as well as here: http://spafilters.com/cgi-bin/shop.pl/page=spa_filter_listing_m.htm (free shipping)

[Reese]

Thanks!  I note that the filters at the link are Puracel, not Unicel.  It does appear that they use a similar media and construction.

[Jacuzzi Jim]

 If it is the UNC 4950 I sell it for 39.95   68.00 is to high but hey he has to stay in business.

[anne]

I bought a Unicel filter at ebay for about $30. Ironically, the seller turned out to be an Arctic dealer on the east coast!

[Matt Foley]

Thanks!  I note that the filters at the link are Puracel, not Unicel.  It does appear that they use a similar media and construction.

Dang, I didn't notice that, thanks for the heads-up.

I bought a Unicel off eBay for 23.95 plus 6.95 shipping. Much better than $68!