When discussing skimmers in regard to your pools and spas, we usually use the term to refer to two different things:
Though understanding how both work is important, this article will focus on the latter of the two, the devices that aid in surface water removal and debris collection. Across the pool and spa industry there are a few different styles of skimmers you may encounter, but the primary types we use in the commercial industry fall into two different styles.
The two skimmer styles that we encounter in the pool industry are:
Both types serve the purpose of removing surface water and collecting debris but each type does it in a very specific way.
The gutter type skimmer looks similar to that of the gutter that surrounds the roof on your house. It operates by utilizing the water's surface tension to pull surface water into the gutter itself. The water then runs down the gutter and into the circulation system.
The wall-mounted skimmer is arguably the most common type of skimmer in the commercial pool and spa community. It is the skimmer that has a box-like opening in the side of the pool at the surface. This skimmer type will also have an access lid or cover on the deck.
It is also important for wall-mounted skimmers to have its weir door installed. This door is a flap located between the skimmer opening and the skimmer box itself. This door provides the water movement needed for actual skimming to occur, meaning the process of drawing the water into the skimmer itself. Without this weir door it is very difficult for surface debris to make it into the skimmer itself. It should also be known that many state and local codes require that a weir door be in place. If you don't have one installed, your skimmer manufacturer can help you with the purchase of one.
You can indeed vacuum through your skimmer line! In fact, it is highly encouraged to vacuum your pool through the skimmers. If you would like more information on vacuuming through your skimmer, please watch this video.
Think about your skimmer basket as the first line of filtration defense in your circulation system. This basket catches all the large debris that could potentially clog your impeller or cause other complications to your circulation system.
Many, and I mean MANY, pool and spa service and maintenance companies will recommend putting chlorine tablets directly into your skimmers, but it cannot be stressed enough how bad of a practice this is. By pulling that heavily chlorinated water through your skimmer and down through your circulation components it is highly likely that you will shorten the lifespan of all components significantly by doing so.
Pools and spas can be complex and skimmers are just one of the areas where good information is needed when it comes to making sure your property or home is as safe as possible. Enrolling in one of Pool Training Academy's CPO® (Certified Pool Operator) Classes is the best step toward making sure you and your property are as covered from liability as possible. We have CPO® classes taking place all over the United States, from Denver, CO to Missoula, MT, Moab, UT to Kansas City. Pool Training Academy's Certified Pool Operator Class is the premier choice for those who want to learn more about their pools and spas. To sign up for a class near you just click here.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Let's face it, your pool has a ton of water in it and the last thing you want to deal with is a super high water bill for refilling the entire thing. But believe it or not, draining your pool or hot tub is one of the most crucial pieces to the puzzle when it comes to keeping your pool, hot tub, swimmers, are circulation components as safe as possible. In this article we are going to address the Following: