Product Details
Genuine Sundance® OEM Outer Filter for 880™ & 980™ Series Spas
The Sundance® MicroClean® Ultra Outer Filter (6473-165S) is a genuine Sundance® factory replacement filter designed specifically for Sundance® 880™ and 980™ Series hot tubs equipped with the MicroClean® Ultra filtration system. Engineered to exact OEM specifications, this premium pleated filter delivers exceptional debris removal, optimal water flow, and superior filtration performance.
As the first stage of Sundance®'s advanced two-part filtration system, the 6473-165S captures larger particles and contaminants before water passes through the inner MicroClean® Ultra Core filter. Together, these filters help maintain crystal-clear water while protecting vital spa components.
Key Features
- Genuine Sundance® OEM factory replacement filter
- Not an aftermarket or universal replacement
- Designed exclusively for Sundance® 880™ and 980™ Series spas
- First stage of the MicroClean® Ultra filtration system
- High-capacity pleated filtration media
- Captures dirt, debris, hair, oils, and larger contaminants
- Helps improve water clarity and circulation
- Washable and reusable design
- Supports pump and heater efficiency
- Easy installation and maintenance
Compatible With
This filter is designed to be used with:
- 6473-164S MicroClean® Ultra Inner Core Filter
Together these components create Sundance®'s advanced two-stage MicroClean® Ultra filtration system.
Compatible Spa Models
880™ Series
- Altamar® (2009+)
- Aspen® (2012+)
- Cameo® (2009)
- Capri® (2009+)
- Majesta™ (2009-2018)
- Marin® (2009+)
- Maxxus® (2009+)
- Optima® (2009+)
980™ Series
- Claremont™ (October 2016+)
- Kingston™ (October 2016+)
- Lisbon™ (2019-March 2021)
- Odessa™ (2019-March 2021)
Filter Specifications
- Part Number: 6473-165S
- Filter Type: MicroClean® Ultra Outer Filter
- Diameter: 8.42 inches
- Length: 19.82 inches
- Top Opening: 2-3/16" Slip
- Bottom Opening: 4-7/16" Hole
How the MicroClean® Ultra Filtration System Works
Stage 1: Outer Pleated Filter (6473-165S)
The outer filter removes:
- Hair
- Leaves
- Dirt
- Debris
- Larger suspended particles
Its large pleated surface area maximizes filtration efficiency while maintaining excellent water flow.
Stage 2: Inner MicroClean® Ultra Core (6473-164S)
The disposable inner core captures:
- Fine sediment
- Body oils
- Lotions and cosmetics
- Microscopic contaminants
- Water-clouding particles
This dual-stage approach provides outstanding water clarity and improved protection for your spa equipment.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The 6473-165S is a reusable pleated filter and should be cleaned regularly to maintain optimal performance.
Recommended Cleaning Schedule
- Rinse with a garden hose every 2 to 4 weeks.
- Deep clean monthly using a dedicated spa filter cleaning solution.
- Rinse thoroughly before reinstalling.
- Rotate with a spare filter when possible to extend filter life.
Expected Filter Life
With proper maintenance, the MicroClean® Ultra Outer Filter typically lasts:
- 12 to 18 months under normal spa use
Replace sooner if the filter becomes damaged or performance declines.
Signs It's Time to Replace Your Filter
Consider replacing your filter if you notice:
- Reduced water circulation
- Persistent cloudy water
- Torn or damaged filter media
- Cracked end caps
- Flattened or collapsed pleats
- Increased sanitizer demand
- Difficulty maintaining water balance
A worn filter can reduce filtration efficiency and increase strain on your spa's pumps and circulation system.
Important Maintenance Tip
The outer pleated filter can be cleaned and reused, but the companion 6473-164S MicroClean® Ultra Inner Core is a disposable microfiber filter and should not be cleaned.
For best water quality:
- Clean the outer filter monthly
- Replace the outer filter every 12 to 18 months
- Replace the inner MicroClean® Ultra Core every 3 to 4 months
Why Choose Genuine Sundance® Filters?
Authentic Sundance® filters are engineered to meet the precise filtration and flow requirements of Sundance® spas. Genuine OEM filters ensure:
- Proper fit and installation
- Maximum filtration efficiency
- Optimal circulation performance
- Enhanced water clarity
- Protection for pumps, heaters, and spa equipment
Using genuine Sundance® filters helps maintain the performance, reliability, and enjoyment your spa was designed to provide.
Superior Filtration for Crystal-Clear Water
The Sundance® MicroClean® Ultra Outer Filter (6473-165S) is an essential part of maintaining clean, healthy spa water. When paired with the 6473-164S Inner Core Filter, it provides the advanced two-stage filtration performance that Sundance® 880™ and 980™ Series owners rely on for exceptional water clarity and worry-free spa enjoyment.
Sundance® Hot Tub Filter FAQ
What is the most common mistake hot tub owners make with filters?
The most common mistakes include:
Waiting too long between cleanings
Using household cleaners or bleach
Attempting to clean disposable MicroClean® filters
Running the spa with damaged filters
Continuing to use filters beyond their recommended lifespan
Regular maintenance is far less expensive than replacing pumps, heaters, or water-care components damaged by poor filtration.
What can I do to help my filters last longer?
To maximize filter life:
Shower before entering the spa
Minimize lotions, oils, and cosmetics
Maintain proper water chemistry
Rinse filters regularly
Deep clean monthly
Keep a spare filter rotation
Replace filters at recommended intervals
These simple habits reduce filter loading and improve overall water quality
Will a dirty filter damage my hot tub?
Over time, yes.
When a filter becomes clogged, the circulation pump must work harder to move water through the system. This added strain can shorten pump life and may contribute to low-flow or FLO error conditions.
Can dirty filters affect water quality?
Yes.
Dirty filters are one of the most common causes of:
Cloudy water
Poor circulation
Water chemistry issues
Increased sanitizer demand
Unpleasant odors
Reduced heating efficiency
Keeping filters clean is one of the easiest ways to maintain sparkling, healthy spa water.
Should I keep a spare set of filters?
Absolutely.
Many experienced spa owners keep a second set of pleated filters. This allows one set to soak and dry completely while the other remains in service, making maintenance easier and helping extend filter life.
Is it okay to run my hot tub without a filter installed?
No.
Operating your spa without properly installed filters can allow debris to enter the plumbing and equipment, potentially causing damage to pumps, heaters, and circulation systems.
Can I clean my MicroClean® or MicroCore® filter?
No.
The inner disposable microfiber filters used in many Sundance® models are not designed to be cleaned. Their fine fibers trap microscopic contaminants, oils, and lotions. Rinsing them can actually introduce minerals and contaminants while reducing filtration effectiveness.
These filters should be replaced at the recommended intervals.
What happens if the plastic on my filter is cracked?
A cracked filter should be replaced immediately.
Cracks in the end caps or center core can:
Allow debris to bypass the filter media
Reduce filtration performance
Restrict water flow
Put unnecessary strain on pumps
Increase the likelihood of circulation issues
Even a small crack can compromise filtration efficiency. Continuing to use a damaged filter can lead to costly equipment problems over time.
How do I know when my filter needs to be replaced?
Replace your filter if you notice:
- Torn, frayed, or damaged filter media
- Cracks in the plastic end caps or core
- Pleats that remain discolored after cleaning
- Flattened or collapsed pleats
- Reduced water flow
- Persistent cloudy water
- Repeated FLO or flow-related error messages
- Difficulty maintaining water chemistry
A filter can look clean and still be worn out internally. If performance declines despite proper cleaning, replacement is usually the best solution.
How long do Sundance® filters last?
Pleated Filters
Most pleated Sundance® filters should be replaced every 12 to 18 months, depending on usage, water balance, and maintenance practices. Some customers may see up to 24 months with exceptional care and light usage.
Disposable MicroClean® Filters
The fine microfiber inner filters found in many 680, 780, 880, and 980 Series models are designed to be replaced, not cleaned.
Typical replacement intervals:
MicroClean® Mini: every 3 to 4 months
MicroClean® Disposable Filter: every 3 to 5 months
MicroCore®/Inner Filters: every 6 to 9 months (model dependent)
What is the best way to clean a Sundance® pleated filter?
Over time, you'll observe a change in the appearance of your hot tub filters, as they may discolor and accumulate dirt. This is a result of their role in capturing oils and contaminants present in your hot tub water. Sundance® Hot Tubs primarily employ two types of filters, based on your specific hot tub model.
1. Pleated cartridge filters, utilized in all models, are crafted from a durable folded paper-like material. These filters can be cleaned by soaking them in a Filter Cleaning Solution and rinsing them with a garden hose to keep them in optimal condition. It's recommended to perform this maintenance regularly, about once a month, with replacements needed approximately every 12-18 months. Maintaining a spare set of pleated filters for rotation enables you to clean your filters without having to drain the spa. Operating the spa without filters properly installed is not advised, as it can cause particles to enter the equipment and plumbing.
2. Featured in Sundance® 680, 780, 880, and 980 collection models, is a compact, dense microfiber filter resembling a elongated top hat. This disposable filter, housed within the larger pleated filter, cannot be effectively cleaned by rinsing. By the time the water reaches this filter in your hot tub, it has already passed through the pleated filter and no longer contains larger particles. Due to the fine fibers, rinsing it with hose water will only introduce metals and mineral particles commonly found in tap water to the filter. In order to maximize your hot tub's filtration system, it is advisable to replace this filter every 3-4 months or after every drain.
How often should I clean my Sundance® filters?
For most Sundance® pleated filters, a thorough cleaning is recommended approximately once per month under normal use. Homes with frequent spa usage, pets, heavy bather loads, or high levels of lotions and cosmetics may benefit from more frequent cleaning.
Why should I choose authentic Sundance® filters?
Authentic Sundance® filters are engineered specifically for Sundance® spas to ensure proper fit, optimal water flow, and maximum filtration performance.
Sundance® has carefully selected top-tier suppliers to create our filter cartridges, adhering to strict specifications for both filtering efficiency and compatibility with your hot tub's filtration system.
Using genuine filters helps maintain clean, clear water while protecting pumps, heaters, and other spa components.
Non-genuine filters may not meet Sundance's specifications and can reduce filtration efficiency or potentially affect warranty coverage.
Pro Tip
If your water remains cloudy after balancing chemicals and shocking the spa, the filter is often the culprit. Cleaning or replacing the filter is frequently the fastest route back to crystal-clear water.