What is a skimmer and what is its purpose?
A skimmer pulls water in from the surface, catching leaves and dirt in its basket before they sink to the bottom of the pool.
A skimmer is a suction port installed at water level. It collects surface debris in its basket as the water flows through the skimmer on its way to the filter.
The point of taking water from the surface is timing. Leaves, dirt and insects float for a while before they sink, and a skimmer catches them in that window, which is far easier than vacuuming them off the floor later.
How the weir does the work
The weir is the flap at the mouth of the skimmer. Water pours over it, carrying debris into the basket.
When the pump is turned off, the weir floats into the closed position, which stops the debris you have already collected from washing back into the pool.
Take care around an open skimmer
Exercise caution when working on the skimmer with the pump running. Keep small objects away from the skimmer opening when the basket is removed, and keep your hands away from the suction hole at the bottom of the skimmer.
Keeping it working
- Keep the skimmer clear of leaves, toys and other large items. Large debris can clog the pipes and stop the skimmer working completely.
- Your skimmer is also the connection point for vacuuming, whether you use a manual vacuum or a suction side automatic pool cleaner.
- For pools over 700 square feet we recommend two skimmers.
More on skimmers
- Our blog post on how a swimming pool skimmer works covers the parts and their upkeep.
- If you are fitting one to an above ground pool, we have a seven step guide to installing a skimmer.
- Skimmer placement matters, and so does the main drain that works alongside it.
- Browse our inground skimmers and returns or our above ground pool skimmers.
Still need help?
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