How to Choose the Right Skimmer for Your Pool

Your Guide to buying the best Skimmer

Overview

A Skimmer is a device used to collect debris and floating materials from a body of water. It is a common tool used by pond owners and water treatment professionals to keep their water clean and free of unwanted particles. This guide provides an introduction to skimmers, discussing the types available, what to consider when buying a skimmer, and tips on how to install and maintain one. With the information in this guide, you will be able to make an informed decision when purchasing a skimmer.

Key features

  • Price - Skimmers range from very affordable models to higher-end options, so shoppers should consider their budget when looking for a skimmer.
  • Size - Skimmers come in a variety of sizes, so shoppers should make sure they choose the right size for their pool.
  • Installation - Shoppers should consider how the skimmer will be installed before making a purchase. Some skimmers are designed for above-ground pools, while others are designed for in-ground pools.
  • Material - Skimmers come in different materials, such as plastic and metal. The material should be chosen based on the pool type and environment.
  • Cleaning - Skimmers should be cleaned regularly to ensure optimal performance. Shoppers should consider how easy the skimmer is to clean before making a purchase.
  • Maintenance - Skimmers require regular maintenance, such as changing filters and checking for debris. Shoppers should consider how much maintenance is required before making a purchase.
  • Warranty - Many skimmers come with a warranty, which can help ensure peace of mind when making a large purchase. Shoppers should consider the length and coverage of the warranty before making a purchase.

See the most popular Skimmer on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Easy to Use - Skimmer is designed with user-friendly controls and is easy to operate.
  • Compact Size - Skimmer is highly portable and can be used in small spaces.
  • Cost-Effective - Skimmer is an affordable option for swimming pool owners.
  • Versatile - Skimmer can be used for a variety of pool maintenance tasks, such as removing debris, changing water levels, and cleaning filters.
  • Durability - Skimmer is designed to last and is resistant to wear and tear.
  • Low Maintenance - Skimmer requires minimal upkeep and maintenance.

Cons

  • Price - Skimmers can be expensive to purchase, install, and maintain.
  • Maintenance - Skimmers require regular maintenance to keep them running efficiently.
  • Size - Skimmers are available in different sizes, so it is important to ensure that you select the right one for your needs.
  • Electricity Usage - Skimmers can be energy-intensive, and may cause a spike in your electricity bill.
  • Noise - Skimmers can be noisy, especially when running at higher speeds.

Best alternatives

  1. Hayward Skim-Vac - a pool cleaning device designed to skim the surface of the water and remove debris.
  2. Polaris Vac-Sweep - a robotic pool cleaner that scrubs and vacuums the pool surface.
  3. Aquabot Turbo T4RC - an automated pool cleaner that can be used in above ground and in-ground pools.
  4. Jandy Skimmer Wall - a wall-mounted skimmer that eliminates the need for a skimmer basket.
  5. Aquabot Pool Rover Jr. - a robotic pool cleaner that works on tile, concrete, vinyl, and fiberglass pools.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Skimmer Net - a tool used for scooping up and removing debris from a pool or pond Pool Vacuum - an electrical tool used to clean the floor and walls of a pool Pool Brush - a tool for scrubbing pool surfaces Filter Cartridges - a replaceable component of a pool filter system Pool Chemicals - a variety of chemicals used to keep pool water healthy and balanced Pool Test Kit - a tool used to test water for levels of chlorine, pH, and more

Common questions

  1. What is a skimmer? A skimmer is a device that is used to remove surface debris from swimming pools and spas. It consists of a floating intake device that collects debris and a filter bag, basket or cartridge to capture it.
  2. What is the difference between a skimmer and a vacuum? A skimmer is designed to collect surface debris from the water, while a vacuum is designed to clean the bottom of the pool or spa.
  3. What are the different types of skimmers? There are three main types of skimmers: manual skimmers, suction skimmers, and robotic skimmers. Manual skimmers are best for small pools, suction skimmers are best for above ground pools, and robotic skimmers are best for large, inground pools.
  4. How often should a skimmer be cleaned? A skimmer should be cleaned every week or two depending on the size of the pool and the amount of debris it collects.
  5. How do I choose the right skimmer for my pool? When choosing a skimmer for your pool, consider the size and shape of the pool, the type of filter you have, and the type of debris you need to remove. If your pool has a large debris load, you may want to consider a larger, more powerful skimmer. If you have an above ground pool, a suction skimmer may be the best option. If you have an inground pool, you may want to consider a robotic skimmer to keep it clean with minimal effort.
  6. Are there any special features to look for when buying a skimmer? Yes, there are several features to look for when buying a skimmer. Look for models with adjustable flow control and easy-to-clean filter bags or baskets. You should also look for models that are easy to install and use, and ones that come with a warranty.

Trivia

A funny fact about Skimmer is that it was originally created to help scientists monitor and study the behavior of fish in their natural habitats. The founder, Elijah Horne, wanted to create a device that could be used to observe fish in a non-invasive way. His invention ended up revolutionizing the way that scientists study aquatic life and inspired a whole new industry of underwater robotics. The name Skimmer was inspired by the way the device looks, with its wings-like structure and its ability to skim along the surface of the water. Source: Marine Technology News.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.