Pool skimmers are one of the most critical pieces of equipment for your above-ground pool. They’re essential for keeping your pool clean and free of debris. But how many skimmers do you need for your pool?
You need one skimmer per 400 square feet (37 square meters). You need one skimmer if your pool is 20 ft x 20ft (6 x 6 m). A 30 ft x 20ft (9 x 6 m) pool requires two skimmers to clean the pool adequately. Place the skimmers 2 inches (5 cm) above the water level for the skimmer to work efficiently.
Read on to know more about pool skimmers, how they work, types of skimmers, and maintenance tips to keep them working properly all year long.
What Is a Pool Skimmer, and How Does It Work?
A pool skimmer is a device placed near the water surface to collect debris that can clog the filter. This debris is collected using a basket. The skimmer’s weir (a kind of door) helps to regulate the water level and keeps the skimmer from overflowing.
Skimmers are typically attached to the side of the pool with screws and connected to the pool’s filtration system. As water flows into the skimmer, it creates a suction mechanism that pulls the debris into the basket. Then, the water goes back to the pool through the return lines. This system helps to keep your pool clean and free of debris.
Pool skimmers also play a critical role in regulating the water level of your pool. When the water level in the pool is too low, the weir door closes to prevent the skimmer from sucking air and damaging the pump.
Types of Pool Skimmers
There are two types of above-ground pool skimmers based on their mode of operation. Every kind of skimmer has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Automatic Skimmers
Automatic skimmers are the most popular type of skimmer for above-ground pools. They’re easy to operate and require little maintenance. All you have to do is set the timer, and the skimmer will turn on and off as needed. These skimmers are also equipped with a weir door that maintains normal levels of water in the pool.
The main downside of automatic skimmers is that they’re more expensive than manual skimmers. They require an electrical connection and a timer to operate.
Additionally, the weir door can become stuck in the closed position if there’s too much debris in the basket. This can cause the skimmer to stop working and the water level in the pool to drop. To prevent this, you have to clean out the skimmer now and then.
Manual Skimmers
Manual skimmers are the most basic type of skimmer. They’re basically a net with a long handle. As a result, they’re not as expensive, though you have to move them around the pool by hand so they can serve their purpose.
They’re also ineffective at cleaning a pool if there’s a lot of debris. The net can only collect so much trash at once, and you must empty it frequently. Manual skimmers are best suited for small pools with light debris.
Is Having Many Skimmers Better?
While having multiple skimmers can help keep your pool cleaner, it can negatively impact your pool’s circulation. During operation, each skimmer produces its own suction that pulls water from the pool.
When you have multiple skimmers, the suction from each skimmer can cancel each other out and reduce the overall circulation of your pool. This can lead to dead spots where the water is not circulating properly.
Additionally, multiple skimmers can be more expensive to operate and maintain. Each skimmer needs its own pump, and you must clean each basket regularly. If one of the skimmers is not functioning correctly, it can impact the circulation of your entire pool.
Instead of installing too many skimmers, a floating skimmer can be placed in the pool to help collect debris. This is an excellent option if you have a large pool or one surrounded by trees. It will keep the pool clean without interfering with circulation.
Top Maintenance Tips for Your Pool Skimmer
Regular and adequate maintenance is essential to keep your pool skimmer working properly. It also helps prevent costly repairs in the future.
Here are some tips to help you maintain your pool skimmer.
Clean the Skimmer Basket Regularly
Over time, as the skimmer basket fills up with debris, it will reduce the amount of water that can flow through the skimmer. This can cause the pump to work harder and eventually overheat.
To prevent this, empty the skimmer basket regularly. Depending on the size of your pool and the amount of debris, you may need to do this daily or weekly.
Inspect the Weir Door Regularly
The weir door should be open when the skimmer is operating and closed when it’s not. If the weir door gets stuck in the open or closed position, it can cause problems with the skimmer. And if the skimmer isn’t working efficiently, it will affect the cleaning of your pool. So, it’s vital to inspect the weir door regularly and make sure it moves freely.
Replace the Skimmer Gasket Regularly
The skimmer gasket is a rubber seal that helps create a tight seal between the skimmer and the pool wall. Over time, as the gasket ages, it can become brittle and crack. This will cause water to leak from the skimmer and affect the pump’s performance. To prevent this, replace the skimmer gasket every few years or as needed.
Replace the Net As Needed
The net is the part of the skimmer that actually collects the debris. Over time, it can become worn and torn, reducing its ability to collect debris and causing it to clog more easily. Regular inspection and replacement of the net will help keep your skimmer working properly.
Final Thoughts
For efficient pool cleaning, you need to have the correct number of skimmers. Generally, you need one skimmer for every 400 sq. ft. (37 sq. m) of your pool’s surface area. However, this can vary depending on the type of pool and the amount of debris.
If you have a lot of vegetation around your pool, you may need more skimmers. Inspect and clean your skimmer regularly to prevent blockage and clogging. Be sure to replace the skimmer basket, net, and gasket as needed.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your pool is properly cleaned and maintained.