Sounds to me as if part of the problem is clogging intake tubes, then exacerbated with sponge partial clogging. In my experience, the first (intake tubes) occurs relatively fast, and reduces flow most substantially. Whether you use disposable cartridges (nobody should be doing that!), sponges, or your own DIY changes little the history above.
I have solved that issue by adding prefilters to all intakes. After trying various types over the years (i.e, cutout sponges, etc), I settled down on my own standard (a small piece of plastic screen mesh, held by rubber bands) (picture attached, on Aquaclear 110). I use this on all filters, HOB and canisters. The rubber bands last about a month, the screens several months. I once bought a roll (< $8), and will last me forever.
Weekly I clean all prefilters (meshes) and sponges/noodles (HOB) and canisters' interiors monthly. Using this method, I only rarely have a filter that over the week slows flow sufficiently to be a concern. And this is even having floating frog bit and Salvinia.
Also in my experience, using this method I don't actually clean the impellers more than every few months, at which time I also grease them well. Some impellers have been going for quite a few years, but of course replacements are sometimes needed.
My opinion ? Pre-filters forever, and planning of cleaning them weekly.
