Welcome to the world of pools! If you’re a pool owner or a potential one, you’ve probably come across the term “Pool Skimmer.” It might leave you scratching your head, asking, “What is a Pool Skimmer?” Fear not! This article is designed to demystify this handy piece of pool equipment and explain how it works to keep your pool spotless and sparkling.
When you think of a skimmer for a pool, imagine a silent guardian that diligently keeps watch over your pool’s cleanliness. It’s an unsung hero that ensures you always plunge into crystal clear water, free from floating debris or surface contaminants. By the end of this article, you’ll not only understand what a pool skimmer is and how it operates, but also why it’s a crucial part of any pool’s ecosystem.
Whether you’re lounging in your pool on a sunny afternoon or admiring the tranquil water from your patio, there’s nothing like knowing your pool is clean and well-maintained. That’s the peace of mind a pool skimmer brings. So, let’s dive in and learn about this indispensable pool companion.
What Is A Pool Skimmer? How Do They Work?
Have you ever glanced at a tranquil, clean swimming pool and wondered, “How does it stay so pristine?” Well, the unsung hero of a pool’s cleanliness is often the pool skimmer. So, let’s unravel the question, “What is a pool skimmer, and how does it keep our pools sparkling?”
A pool skimmer, often unnoticed, plays a crucial role in maintaining a swimming pool’s hygiene and aesthetic appeal. Its primary purpose is to clean the surface of the water by effectively sucking it into a conduit system, similar to a vacuum. Let’s explore further.
One of the most notable functions of a skimmer for a pool is to act as the frontline of defense in the pool’s circulation and filtration process. It filters the pool water to ensure its clean, disinfected, and ideal for use. This process involves an inbuilt suction pump that effectively prevents any dirt or debris from settling at the bottom of the pool.
The skimmer works ingeniously by drawing water into its system for filtration. As the pool pump kicks into action, it creates a pull effect, drawing water and any floating debris into the skimmers. Nestled inside the skimmers are baskets specifically designed to catch larger debris such as leaves, twigs, or insects. This nifty feature prevents blockages in the pump or filter, effectively safeguarding expensive pool equipment from potential damage.
An interesting attribute of a pool skimmer is its constructive design. The system is constructed based on a standardized coping system, where the water level in the skimmer system is kept about 15-20 cm lower than the pool edge. This design not only aids the skimmer in its functioning but also significantly extends the system’s lifespan by retaining some dirt from the water passing through the filter.
Apart from serving the practical purpose of cleanliness, pool skimmers contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the pool as well. Special pool edges enhance the skimmer system, and the best constructive solutions for swimming pools with a skimmer system use extruded tiles. Renowned for their low porosity, resistance to chemical agents, and capability to withstand sudden temperature changes, these tiles are considered to be the most durable and hygienic material for swimming pool coping.
Kinds of Pool Skimmers
A fascinating aspect of pool skimmers is that there’s a variety to cater to different types of pools or hot tubs. Understanding the various kinds of skimmers is a step forward in comprehending the vast world of pool maintenance.
Inground pool skimmers are a common choice and are typically built directly into the pool walls. These are essentially rectangular cutouts positioned close to the top of the pool walls, usually made from white plastic. What’s fascinating about inground skimmers is their unique front flap. It opens and closes with the water’s movement, trapping debris in the skimmer basket and preventing it from re-entering the pool.
On the other hand, for those who own above-ground pools, the two common skimmers are wall-mounted or floating types. A wall-mounted skimmer hangs off the side of the pool, held in place by a plastic arm, while a floating skimmer glides on the water surface, randomly collecting debris. Some above-ground pools even have pre-cut openings for built-in skimmers, indicating the importance of these devices in maintaining pool cleanliness.
For those who value technology and convenience, the robotic pool skimmer is a top choice. Available in both battery- and solar-powered models, these skimmers move independently across the pool’s surface, collecting debris along their path.
And let’s not forget about hot tub skimmers. Their function mirrors that of pool skimmers, making them equally crucial. Poorly filtered hot tubs can lead to unpleasant issues like murky or green water, higher running costs, and a spike in maintenance needs. A skimmer for a hot tub functions by suctioning the water’s surface and drawing debris into a plastic screen.
Types of Pool Skimmers
The pool skimmer spectrum is broad, with each type serving a specific purpose. Let’s delve deeper into the different types of skimmers that are crucial to maintaining pool health.
A popular choice among pool owners is the Pool skimmer net. This low-cost, easy-to-use solution is a handheld device with a flat, wide net-like design that captures surface debris while allowing water to flow through it. The fine mesh material attached to a solid frame makes it easy to scoop up debris from the pool surface, floor, steps, or attached spas. It’s like a fishing net but for your pool!
Then we have the side drain pool skimmers, which are more complex. They’re essentially drains that guide water in the direction of filtration. They play a significant role in trapping larger debris like leaves and insects, contributing significantly to the smooth operation and condition of the pump.
Interestingly, surface pool skimmers can double as tablet dispensers for disinfecting pool water, demonstrating the versatility of skimmers. Instead of applying chlorine tablets directly to the water, which could harm the pool basin, these skimmers distribute the tablets evenly.
Lastly, we have specialized skimmers like the Circular Weir Pool Skimmer and Venturi Pool Skimmer. The former is unique for its rigid floating basket that acts as the skimmer weir, while the latter amplifies the skimmer’s reach, working with the pump’s suction or return line pressure.
Whether you opt for a simple skimmer net or a more advanced Venturi pool skimmer, it’s clear that these devices are crucial in maintaining the cleanliness and clarity of your pool. After all, what is a pool skimmer if not the guardian of your pool’s cleanliness?
Should your Pool have Skimmers?
Are you asking yourself, “Should my pool have a skimmer?” The answer is a resounding yes. A pool skimmer should be seen as a necessity, not a luxury, for all pool owners. Let’s discuss why your pool can benefit significantly from this addition.
Firstly, skimmers are essential to keeping your pool clean and debris-free. Their function of sweeping up surface dirt such as leaves, grass blades, and insects means less physical labor for you. They catch larger particles that could potentially clog the pump filter, thus extending the life and efficiency of the pool’s pump.
Moreover, a pool skimmer simplifies water care. Whether you own a large or a smaller pool, skimmers are beneficial. The goal of a skimmer for a pool is not just to clear visible debris, but also to tackle contaminants that might not sink, like pollen and small sticks. The skimmer’s “flappy door,” technically known as the skimmer weir, helps create a thin layer of water pulled over and into the skimmer. This process keeps your pool pristine and inviting.
Secondly, the number of skimmers your pool should have depends on its size. Generally, one skimmer is recommended for every 25 cubic meters of water. So, larger pools may require more than one skimmer. It’s advisable to use professional services for successful installation of the skimmer system, guaranteeing efficiency and longevity.
In addition, pool skimmers are crucial in maintaining the health of the pool’s filtration system. They serve as the first point of contact for water before it reaches the pump, preventing larger debris from reaching and potentially damaging the pool’s equipment. The regular removal of dirt from the skimmer basket ensures a continuous and unobstructed flow of water, making the skimmer an integral part of the pool’s circulation system.
Lastly, consider the benefits of a skimmer system in terms of time and effort saved. Instead of manually fishing out debris with a net, a pool skimmer does the work for you. It also lowers the risk of filter pump breakdowns and reduces maintenance efforts, providing a carefree swimming experience. The skimmer’s role in preserving the pump’s condition underscores its significance in overall pool management.