A Pool Skimmer: What Is It?

Every pool owner's desire is to have crystal clean water. Pool care technology has advanced, but traditional techniques like daily water changes required a lot of labor. Purchasing a pool skimmer is now a simpler approach to maintain immaculate water.

The finest aspect? Equally suited to all pools are skimmers. Above-ground or in-ground, a decent skimmer keeps any pool shining. Even the tech-savvy models adjust the water flow or empty the baskets on their own.  

What is a Pool Skimmer?

A skimmer is a device that does multiple things at once: it collects water from the pool's surface, filters it to prevent clogging, and cleans it with the help of auxiliary chemicals. This kind of pool water cleaning is required as surface pollution and bacterial buildup are unavoidable. 

When employing an pool vacuum cleaner, the skimmer is extremely helpful in making pool cleaning easier. Models without a separate filtration system are usually connected to the water intake by a hose. Water is therefore sent directly to the primary filter, where it is thoroughly cleaned.

It's important to understand that the skimmer works on the top layer of the pool's water, which is typically the dirtiest. If necessary, bottom nozzles can be fitted to allow for full drainage.

Types of Pool Skimmers

A pool skimmer's design is really straightforward.  It is a container with an inlet and a connection to a filtration unit.  Some models have a flap to keep clean water from flowing from the skimmer back into the pool. It is also additionally equipped with a basket of mesh for coarse cleaning. You can also use an inexpensive and easy option to keep the water cleaner for longer - add a pool skimmer sock.

What is a pool skimmer sock?

It is a flexible nylon fine fine basket mesh, used to thoroughly collect debris - leaves, hair, insects and more.

These kinds of skimmers can be distinguished (they all work on the same principle, but installation and construction techniques may vary):

•    In-ground skimmers

•    Hinged/Floating

•    Automatic pool skimmers

Inground Skimmers are the most popular type used in inground pools. A bowl is formed in the wall into which the device is mounted, so that the water level corresponds to the skimmer window. For disinfectant loading and filter maintenance, a cover is offered. To delay the selected debris skimmer has a floating flap, which independently changes the angle depending on the water level.

High performance is one benefit that should be mentioned, and you should consider installing it while the pool is still being built. The water level should be determined before beginning installation, and the kit's accessories should be used.

Hinged and floating skimmers are simple to install; most kits include two mounting options; select the one that best fits your pool. After that, modify the depth. The ability to work in the pool at any water level is one of the benefits. Cleaning the skimmer basket every day throughout the swimming season can help to extend the life of it.

Robotic pool skimmers are the contemporary equivalent of the fixed, wall-mounted stationary pool skimmer. There are two types of these autonomous robotic variations: battery-powered and solar-powered. As they skim the surface of the pool, they remove any debris that gets in their way with ease. The allure of a robotic skimmer is its self-sufficiency, as it can function autonomously to reduce energy use. As an alternative, it can be connected to a pool cleaner so that both parties contribute to keeping the surface clear of particles. In addition to saving time and labor, this is particularly helpful in windy or insect-rich areas, as wind tends to blow leaves and other detritus into swimming pools. The robotic skimmer can save electricity, among other things. It allows for effective pool maintenance because it may be used without the pool pump.

The Details of Installing a Pool Skimmer

Configuring an above skimmer is a very simple process, but installing an inground skimmer requires more time and work. During the design process, planning for the installation of this kind of skimmer should be a top priority.

When integrating the bowl, integrated elements must be installed. First, the bowl's water level needs to be properly measured. The amount of skimmers needed depends on the surface area of the water mirror and is affected by the bathtub's design. Making sure something is easily accessible while in use is part of optimal placement. Generally speaking, one skimmer is needed for every 400–800 square feet of pool surface for effective filtration.

The skimmer's positioning in relation to the nozzle holds significant importance.  If conditions allow, they should ideally be on adjacent walls. It is not advised to install the skimmer on the opposite side of the nozzle as this may result in stagnant areas.

It is essential to connect the skimmer to the filtration and circulation system before adding the additional coarse filter. The skimmer should be placed as close to the filter unit as is practical. Contrary to popular belief, placement should not be at one of the pool's corners as this significantly reduces its effectiveness.

It is crucial to make sure that the skimmer and the pool bowl are completely sealed off. Although these guidelines serve as a starting point, it's imperative to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for each individual model as they could include extra guidelines and suggestions to ensure the best possible skimmer installation.

How Often Should you Clean your Pool Skimmer?

It is best to follow a weekly cleaning routine to make sure the basket—which gathers various material from your pool—is immediately emptied. The reasoning for this is obvious: you wouldn't want the dirt buildup in your pool to become an unattractive presence.

If you leave debris in the basket for long periods of time, it's more likely to break down and end up as tiny, unwanted pieces floating in your perfectly clean water. As a result, it makes sense to follow a once-weekly cleaning schedule. However, your skimmer may quickly amass material, requiring more frequent checks, if your backyard has a lot of trees, has had severe winds, and isn't covered.

Fortunately, one of the simplest pool maintenance jobs is cleaning the skimmer. It entails raising the top cover, taking the basket out, and emptying its contents. The basket can be hosed down or replaced with a new one if it appears extremely dirty. A specialty spray is useful for cleaning tough dirt more thoroughly.

An important word of caution: make sure the cleaner is completely removed from the water in order to avoid the creation of foamy bubbles. Ignoring this step could lead to a more serious issue that has to be addressed right away. This regular skimmer cleaning appears as a minor but crucial deed in the big scheme of pool maintenance, maintaining the beauty and clarity of your aquatic sanctuary.

How do you Winterize a Skimmer?

Whatever style of pool you have, don't forget to prepare your skimmer for the forthcoming season.

When blowing out the lines in an inground pool, go one step further and install a plastic float or rubber plug.  This guarantees a tight seal, keeping the filtration system free from any undesired intrusions throughout the winter.

For above-ground pools, the procedure is more straightforward. All you have to do is take out the skimmer, cover it, and wait for the next season to arrive. When the time comes to enjoy the pool season once more, this simple procedure will guarantee that your skimmer is safe and prepared for use.

We have gone into great length on the skimmer, a relatively insignificant portion of the pool. It is simple to use if you take the proper approach. These devices come in a variety of pricing points, so in order to choose wisely, consider all the small details, including the kind of pool, the material of the bowl, the arrangement of the pool, and the maintenance schedule.