Do you know what a pool skimmer is and what role it plays in maintaining the water’s health in a pool? In this article, we aim to familiarize you with the skimmer, which is one of the pool equipment.
What is a Skimmer?
A skimmer, or surface skimmer, is a device used to clean the surface of the pool water. Insects and plant debris often remain floating on the water’s surface. The skimmer, usually rectangular in shape, is installed along the edges of the pool and collects floating debris before it settles, preventing them from entering the filtration system and clogging the pipes. The operation of skimmer suction is done in a way that individuals inside the pool are not aware of this process.
The Use of Skimmer in Pools
Leaves, insects, hair, worms, lotions, and oils can enter the pool water and remain floating. These materials can provide a breeding ground for various algae and fungi. Additionally, they can increase the workload on the pump and filtration system when they enter the filtration piping system, leading to significant damage to these devices in the long run.
Skimmers are installed on the pool walls and, through suction, collect floating particles, oils, and surface creams, thus keeping the pool water clean.
Types of Pool Skimmers
Wall-mounted and floating skimmers are among the available types of skimmers.
Wall-mounted skimmers are installed on the upper part of the walls of underground pools. Half of the skimmer inlet must be covered by pool water.
Floating skimmers are used in above-ground pools. The floating skimmer is attached to the water discharge point of the pool and uses the filtration pump for suction. This type of skimmer remains floating on the water’s surface.
New types of floating skimmers have been designed and introduced that use batteries and solar energy instead of a pump. Moreover, skimmers are manufactured in various sizes and from compressed plastic material that is resistant to sunlight and chemicals such as chlorine.
During the construction of underground pools, the location of the skimmer is considered on the walls. Each pool can have one or more skimmers depending on its size. In smaller pools set up on the ground, skimmers with a handle are used, and this handle is placed on the edge of the pool. This handle can be adjusted according to the pool water level.
Skimmer Components
Skimmers are made up of various components for cleaning the water’s surface. The components of the pool skimmer include:
- Door: The skimmer door prevents large floating pieces from being sucked into the basket.
- Flap: The flap is placed over the skimmer inlet and opens during suction and closes afterward. This flap prevents the re-entry of particles into the basket once they are collected.
- Basket: Suspended particles are pushed into the basket after suction.
- Equalizer: If water levels drop below the skimmer inlet, the equalizer prevents air from being sucked into the skimmer.
How Skimmers Work
Skimmers should be installed in a way that half of their door is filled with pool water. When the pump is turned on, the flap opens, and skimmer suction begins. Floating particles are directed toward the skimmer inlet, and after the pump is turned off, the flap closes. In this way, floating particles are collected from the water’s surface.
Some skimmers are designed to also be used for pool vacuuming. In this case, the skimmer basket and door are separated, and a special pool vacuum hose is attached to the skimmer suction pipe. Then, the vacuum can be used to clean the pool floor.
Which Type of Skimmer to Choose for Your Pool?
Like any other product, pool skimmers come in a wide variety of sizes and materials, which can confuse individuals when making purchasing decisions.
When choosing a pool skimmer during purchase, several factors need to be considered:
Material: Keep in mind that skimmers are constantly exposed to water containing salts such as chlorine, as well as sunlight in outdoor pools. These factors can damage the skimmer, so the material of the skimmer is very important.
Installation Method: When buying, pay attention to the installation method of skimmers. It is better to choose a skimmer with a simple installation method.
Size: Depending on the pool’s water flow rate, the appropriate number and size of skimmers are determined. So, remember this before buying and consult with a specialist.