Pentair Pentair Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter DAMAGED CARTRIDGE Error Fix: Damaged Filter Cartridge

Error code DAMAGED CARTRIDGE on the Pentair Pentair Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter means: Damaged Filter Cartridge. The polyester pleated filter cartridge has torn pleats, collapsed sections, or the fabric has degraded to the point where it no longer filters effectively. Symptoms include the filter pressure not rising (water passes through the damaged area without being filtered), cloudy pool water despite running the pump, or visible debris returning to the pool through the return jets. Replace the cartridge. Clean & Clear Plus 420 filters use four cartridge elements — inspect all four and replace any that are torn or degraded. Aftermarket replacement cartridges are available as a more economical alternative to OEM Pentair cartridges.

The most successful fix is "Replace Damaged Filter Cartridges" (medium difficulty, ~45 minutes). Estimated DIY cost: $100-$160. HomeMD has 2 community-ranked fixes for this error.

This error is rated warning severity. It is generally not urgent and can often be resolved with a simple DIY fix.

Yes — the top-ranked community fix ("Replace Damaged Filter Cartridges") is rated medium difficulty and takes about 45 minutes. Tools needed: Flathead screwdriver, 1/4 inch socket wrench.

DIY cost: $100-$160. Professional repair typically costs $180-$250. Many homeowners save money by trying the top-ranked community fix first.

The Pentair Pentair Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter has 8 other known error codes, including: AIR IN SYSTEM (Air in Filter System), AIR VALVE FAIL (Air Relief Valve Failure), BAND CLAMP FAIL (Belly Band Clamp Failure), DRAIN PLUG LEAK (Drain Plug Leak), GAUGE FAILURE (Pressure Gauge Failure), and 3 more.