Pentair System:3™ 500 Sq Ft Modular Media Filter
The Pentair System:3™ 500 Sq Ft Modular Media Filter (S8M500) is the large-capacity model in the System:3 family — 500 sq ft of modular media filtration in a 32.5-inch Dura-Glas™ tank. Sta-Rite's advanced modular media technology brings ultra-capacity filtration with completely care-free operation: no backwash valve required, simply hose off the elements in minutes. Rated for up to 130 GPM and pools up to 62,400 gallons (8-hour turnover).
Dual drain plugs (side to waste + full bottom drain), innovative balanced flow design, complete media coverage with shallow pleats for maximum dirt-holding capacity and longer filter cycles. Dura-Glas™ two-piece glass-reinforced composite resin tank in matte black. ANSI Standard 50 certified. Green certified. Backed by a 1-year warranty.
Key Features
500 Sq Ft — Largest System:3 Model
Maximum capacity in the System:3 family — 500 sq ft for the longest filter cycles and highest dirt-holding capability.
No Backwash Valve Required
No backwash valve needed — simply hose off the modular media elements in minutes when cleaning is due.
130 GPM Flow Rate
Handles up to 130 GPM for large in-ground pools and spas.
Shallow-Pleat Complete Media Coverage
Greater dirt-holding capabilities for longer filter cycles and less frequent cleaning.
Balanced Flow Design
Integral manifold ensures perfectly balanced flow across all media elements — the industry standard for modular media filtration.
Dual Drain Plugs
Side plug for plumbing to waste; bottom plug drains entire filter — flexible maintenance and winterization.
Dura-Glas™ Glass-Reinforced Composite Tank
Two-piece matte black Dura-Glas™ tank — leading composite resin construction for durability and appearance.
Modular Tank Design
Quick change of filter media without replacing the tank — future-flexible installation.
ANSI Standard 50 / Green Certified / 1-Year Warranty
Certified performance with Pentair warranty.
Who It's For
- In-ground pool and spa owners who want maximum System:3 modular media capacity
- Large pools up to 62,400 gallons requiring 130 GPM filtration with minimal maintenance
- Anyone who wants to eliminate the backwash valve entirely while upgrading from sand
- Existing Sta-Rite System:3 users who want the largest tank in the family
Specifications
Performance
| Filtration Area | 500 sq ft |
| Max Flow Rate | 130 GPM |
| Max Working Pressure | 50 PSI |
| Pool Size (8-hr turnover) | Up to 62,400 gallons |
Tank & Plumbing
| Tank Material | Dura-Glas™ Glass-Reinforced Composite (Two-Piece) |
| Tank Diameter | 32.5 in |
| Tank Color | Matte Black |
| Plumbing Size | 2 in NPT |
| Drain | Dual (Side to waste + Bottom full drain) |
| Side Clearance Required | 40 in |
| Vertical Clearance Required | 50 in |
Physical
| Product Weight | 147 lb |
| Product Height | 42.25 in |
| Shipping Dimensions | 31.5 × 30.5 × 41.5 in |
Approvals & Warranty
| Certifications | ANSI Standard 50 Certified |
| Energy Efficient | Yes (Green Certified) |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
What's in the Box
- Pentair System:3 S8M500 Modular Media Filter Tank
- Modular Media Elements
- User Manual
Warranty
The Pentair System:3 S8M500 comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty. Clearflow Pool Supply is an authorized Pentair dealer and will assist with any warranty service needed.
Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the S8M500 (500 sq ft) compare to the S7M120 (300 sq ft)?
Both are System:3 Dura-Glas™ modular media filters with identical design principles. The S8M500 has 67% more filter area (500 vs. 300 sq ft) and a wider 32.5-inch tank (vs. 28.5 inches), with a higher 130 GPM flow rate and 62,400 vs. 48,000 gallon pool capacity at 8-hour turnover. It also weighs 147 lb vs. 135 lb. Choose the S8M500 for larger pools or when maximum System:3 capacity is the priority.
Does this filter require a backwash valve?
No — that's one of the System:3's key advantages. No backwash valve is required. When cleaning is needed, remove the modular media elements and hose them off. The dual drain plugs handle water management during maintenance and winterization.