Cartridge Filter Degradation / Tears
moderate severitycommonDIY: yesPro repair$200–$500LA-area, parts and labor
DIY cost$100–$400parts and supplies
Typical time1.5 hrfor a pro
Difficulty3 / 51 is easiest
What you'll notice
- Water flowing around cartridge instead of through it
- poor water clarity even after cleaning
- calcium-hardened pleats
Likely causes
- Age (3-7 year lifespan depending on usage)
- high pH or alkalinity causing calcium lock
- aggressive pressure washing damaging fabric
How to keep it from coming back
- Use chemical soak (TSP solution) at least once yearly
- avoid high-pressure washing
- maintain pH below 7.8
Ranges are estimates; see How We Estimate. Affects: cartridge systems.
Equipment involved
Maintenance that prevents it
Related costs
- Filter Cartridge Replacement (per cartridge): $100–$300
- Filter Cleaning (professional service): $150–$300
- Robotic Cleaner Maintenance (annual cartridge replacement, repairs): $50–$300