Blue freeform backyard pool beside a concrete deck and white pergola

What is Pentair R173216?

R173216 is Pentair’s part number for a 150-square-foot replacement cartridge element. It identifies the pleated filtering element inside compatible equipment. The number is not an error code or a diagnosis for cloudy water, pump noise, or a leaking filter.

If you are looking for the right replacement in San Angelo, start with the label on the filter tank. For help reviewing the equipment and its condition, see Concho Valley Pool’s San Angelo pool cleaning services.

Blue freeform backyard pool beside a concrete deck and white pergola
An illustrative pool setting. The R173216 cartridge is identified by the filter model and parts list, not by the appearance of the pool.

Manufacturer-listed R173216 compatibility

Pentair lists R173216 in these replacement-parts documents:

This is a model-specific match. The same sheets list different elements for the 100- and 200-square-foot versions. A familiar tank shape or the word “Pentair” on a listing is not sufficient evidence of fit.

Clean & Clear Plus is a separate, four-cartridge filter family. Use its own model and parts diagram; do not order R173216 for a Plus tank based on the shared Clean & Clear name. Pentair explains the four-element design on its Clean & Clear Plus product page.

What 150 square feet tells you

The rating describes filtering-media area. It is not the pool’s floor area, pool volume, or a promise that the cartridge will suit every pool of a particular size. Equipment sizing also depends on the filter assembly, pump, plumbing, and operating requirements.

R173216 identifies the cartridge element rather than an entire filter tank. The parts diagrams list the center core, tank seal, lid, and locking ring separately. Check what the seller includes so you do not expect a replacement element to contain a missing support core or repair a worn closure.

A useful checklist before buying

  1. Photograph the tank label. Capture the model, filter area, and identifying numbers clearly. Use the tank information as the primary match.
  2. Check the applicable manufacturer parts sheet. Confirm that the element listed for that exact model is R173216.
  3. Compare the existing element as a cross-check. Record any readable part number and photograph the top and bottom openings. If dimensions or end shapes disagree with the proposed replacement, ask before ordering.
  4. Clarify genuine versus compatible parts. A listing that says “replaces R173216” may describe an aftermarket element. Check its manufacturer and explicit compatibility statement.
  5. Review the complete purchase. Confirm quantity, current price, shipping, return conditions, and whether the item can be returned after installation. Ask about any uncertainty before opening or using it.

If the installed cartridge and tank label disagree, do not assume the old cartridge was correct. Give the supplier both pieces of information and ask for the match to be checked against the filter documentation.

Does the existing element need replacement?

Accumulated debris may be removable through the manufacturer’s cleaning procedure. Torn media, cracked end caps, or a deformed element warrant replacement assessment. Take photographs after cleaning so dirt does not hide the damage. Color alone is a poor basis for a purchase decision.

Also compare filter pressure before and after cleaning at the same pump speed and valve configuration. Pressure that remains abnormal may reflect another restriction or a system problem. A new element cannot repair a broken gauge, damaged tank, suction leak, or incorrect plumbing.

Plan a safe installation

Filter service involves stored pressure. Before opening the tank, isolate equipment power, prevent automatic restart, and follow the exact manual’s pressure-release instructions. Stand clear, release all pressure, and verify a zero gauge reading. Never loosen the closure to vent pressure or adjust it while running.

Use the correct manual for the tank’s closure and restart procedure. A replacement should seat correctly without force or modification. If the lid does not fit normally, stop and check the parts. Pentair’s RP service-safety guidance explains why pressure release and correct closure installation matter.

Confirm the part before scheduling service

For help with an R173216 replacement in San Angelo, contact Concho Valley Pool or call or text 469-585-4093. Send the tank label, the current cartridge markings, and any damage photos. Ask for compatibility, availability, and the work included in the quote to be confirmed.

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