Suction-side pool cleaners rely on a precise seal against the pool surface to generate forward movement and climbing power. When that seal becomes worn, stiff, or torn, the cleaner can lose traction, stall, or fail to climb walls properly. The Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pleated Seal Kit (K12896) is designed to restore the cleaner’s ability to seal against the pool surface, allowing it to move efficiently and clean as intended.

The pleated seal sits at the base of the cleaner and flexes as the unit moves across different pool surfaces. Over time, constant friction, debris contact, and chemical exposure cause the seal to lose flexibility or tear. When this happens, suction escapes instead of being converted into movement. Replacing the pleated seal restores proper suction transfer and helps return the cleaner to full performance.

This is a genuine Pentair replacement component engineered specifically for Kreepy Krauly suction-side cleaners—not a generic aftermarket substitute.

Why the Pleated Seal Is Critical to Cleaner Performance

The pleated seal does far more than protect the cleaner body. It creates the seal that allows suction to pull the cleaner forward and upward along pool surfaces. When the seal is compromised, the cleaner may move slowly, spin in place, or stop climbing walls altogether.

A worn seal can also increase wear on internal components by forcing the cleaner to operate inefficiently. Replacing the Pentair K12896 pleated seal helps restore proper movement, reduces strain on the cleaner, and improves overall cleaning coverage.

Designed for Kreepy Krauly Suction-Side Cleaners

This blue pleated seal kit is manufactured to Pentair’s original specifications for fit, flexibility, and durability. The pleated design allows the seal to adapt to variations in pool surfaces while maintaining consistent contact and suction.

Using the correct OEM seal ensures proper alignment with the cleaner body and prevents premature wear that can occur with ill-fitting replacements.

Built for Continuous Pool Use

The Pentair pleated seal is designed for constant underwater operation in chlorinated environments. The material remains flexible while resisting abrasion and chemical degradation, allowing the cleaner to maintain consistent performance over time.

Because it is a direct replacement, installation is straightforward and does not require modification to the cleaner.

When to Replace the Kreepy Krauly Pleated Seal

This pleated seal kit should be replaced when:

• The cleaner moves slowly or stalls

• Wall climbing ability has noticeably decreased

• The seal appears torn, stiff, or excessively worn

• Suction performance drops despite proper hose length and flow

• Performing routine cleaner maintenance or rebuild

Replacing the seal is often one of the most effective ways to restore cleaner performance without replacing the entire unit.

Practical Maintenance Part for Pool Owners and Service Professionals

For pool owners, replacing the pleated seal helps keep the cleaner operating efficiently and reduces missed debris. For service professionals, it is a common wear item that quickly resolves movement and climbing complaints.

A properly functioning pleated seal helps ensure the cleaner uses suction effectively instead of wasting energy.

Specifications

Buy with Confidence from Benchmark Pool Supply

When you purchase the Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pleated Seal Kit (K12896) from Benchmark Pool Supply, you’re buying a genuine OEM cleaner component from a retailer that understands suction-side cleaner systems.

You can expect authentic Pentair parts, fast fulfillment from knowledgeable staff, and support from a team that works with pool cleaners every day. This is the same replacement seal trusted by pool professionals to restore proper cleaner movement and performance.