this filter is same as WP500299?

This Whole House filtration system uses the same filters found in the filter pack WP500299.

Does the clear cannister from the previous version of this Watts whole house filter fit this new one with the white cannister?

The filter head on both systems use the same size threads, so the Clear housing will fit this version of the whole house filter kit.

How often do you replace filter?

There is no set period of time for filter replacement. It depends on the quality of the incoming water, how much water you use, and now fine (measured in microns) your filters are. I have an old well and for a year or so now it's been pumping up a lot of junk so I have to replace my filter about every two weeks. For a while, I had to replace them once a week but that's very unusual. If you're on city water, 3-6 months may be about right but, again, it depends on several factors. This is why it's a shame that this filter housing isn't clear like previous versions. I have to just my filters visually so I can't have an opaque housing. But my previous Watts whole house filter (like this one but with a clear cannister) failed when a bit of material from it broke free and lodged in an injector of my water softener so the water softener didn't work. But I still think this is a very good water filter so I'm ordering a new one. It still works but it leaks when I put it on bypass to change the filter. I'll just use the clear housing from my existing filter because they are reportedly the same other than the fact that the old one is clear and the new one is opaque white. I have no idea why Watts doesn't use clear housings anymore. With one, you can tell the condition of your filter just by glancing at the cannister. BOTTOM LINE: Nobody can tell you how often you have to change your filter. You have to find that out from experience.

Has anyone figured out a solution Replacment filter bowl ? The acrylic clear bowls dont last long ... less than 2yrs.

Look to buy another filter housing assembly. There are several companies that make filter housings that are interchangeable. Big box L___s had a filter housing in stock for $20 that was interchangeable. Avoid and clear housing . They are nice for a visual inspection, but the material is not able to resist cracking. The white housings don't Crack like that