How Do Inground Pool Skimmers Work?

When you think about the upkeep of an inground pool, one of the most important components working quietly in the background is the pool skimmer.

You may not notice it much, but the skimmer is a vital player in keeping your pool clean and enjoyable. It’s like the pool’s housekeeper, constantly working to remove debris such as leaves, bugs, and other floating materials from the surface.

If you’re a pool owner or considering installing an inground pool, understanding how skimmers work can help you keep your pool water pristine with minimal effort. We are Dream Pools and Spas, and we are here to share our knowledge to make your dream pool a reality.

In this blog, we’ll explain how inground pool skimmers work, why they’re essential, and how you can maintain them for the best pool experience.

What is a Pool Skimmer?

Simply put, a pool skimmer is a device designed to remove debris from the surface of your pool before it has a chance to sink to the bottom. Most inground pools have built-in skimmers that are embedded into the side of the pool, just below the waterline. They act as the first line of defense in your pool’s filtration system, catching leaves, insects, and other floating debris before they clog the system or make the pool look dirty.

Some skimmers are automatic and work as part of the pool’s circulation system, while others are manual, requiring you to physically scoop out debris using a handled net. In this blog, we’ll focus on built-in automatic skimmers, as they are far more common in inground pools.

How does a Pool Skimmer work?

Imagine the surface of your pool as a calm pond, with leaves, bugs, and small debris floating around. The job of the skimmer is to skim the top layer of the water and pull in that debris, keeping the water clear and beautiful.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Water Circulation:

   
   

   The pool’s pump draws water from the pool through the skimmer. As the water flows into the skimmer, it pulls in any floating debris from the surface along with it.

   
   

2. Skimmer Basket:

   
   

   Once the water and debris are inside the skimmer, the debris gets trapped in the basket while the water continues its journey through the filtration system. The skimmer basket acts as a strainer, catching larger particles like leaves, twigs, and insects.

   
   

3. Filtration System:

   
   

   After passing through the skimmer, the water moves to the pool’s filtration system, where it’s thoroughly cleaned before being pumped back into the pool. The skimmer helps the filter by reducing the amount of debris that would otherwise clog it.

   
   

4. Return to Pool:

   
   

   Once the water has been filtered, it returns to the pool through the return jets, now free of debris and crystal clear.

   
   

This process repeats continuously while your pool pump is running, which is why it’s essential to ensure the skimmer is functioning correctly and that the basket is emptied regularly.

Why Are Pool Skimmers Important?

You might wonder, “Why can’t I just rely on the filter?” While the filter does play a significant role in keeping your pool water clean, the skimmer serves an essential function that the filter alone can’t handle. Here are four reasons why skimmers are so important:

1. Prevent Debris from Sinking:

   
   

   The skimmer removes debris before it can sink to the bottom of your pool, where it can be harder to clean. Once debris sinks, it can rot or decompose, affecting water quality and turning your pool into a breeding ground for bacteria and algae.

   
   

2. Reduces Strain on the Filter:

   
   

   The skimmer acts as the first layer of defense by catching larger debris. Without the skimmer, all that debris would end up in your filter, clogging it and reducing its effectiveness. A clogged filter means your pump has to work harder, which can lead to more frequent repairs and higher energy bills.

   
   

3. Improves Water Circulation:

   
   

   A well-functioning skimmer helps improve water circulation, ensuring that the water in your pool is constantly moving. This is crucial for distributing chemicals like chlorine evenly throughout the pool and keeping the water clean and sanitized.

   
   

4. Makes Cleaning Easier:

   
   

   Skimmers save you time and effort by keeping the surface of the pool free of debris. Instead of spending your afternoons fishing out leaves and bugs with a net, your skimmer does the work for you. It’s like having a pool cleaning assistant on duty 24/7!

2 Major Types of Pool Skimmers 

In most inground pools, you’ll find two main types of skimmers:

1. Built-In Skimmers:

   
   

   These are embedded into the side of your pool and are connected directly to your pool’s circulation and filtration system. Built-in skimmers are automatic and require minimal effort aside from emptying the basket when it’s full.

   
   

2. Floating or Robotic Skimmers:

   
   

   These are more advanced, high-tech skimmers that float on the water surface and are powered by solar energy or batteries. They roam around the pool, sucking in debris as they go. While not as common, they are an additional option for keeping your pool clean, especially in larger pools or those with a lot of debris.

How to Maintain Your Pool Skimmer

Even though the pool skimmer works automatically, it still needs some basic maintenance to keep things running smoothly. Here’s a simple guide to help you maintain your pool skimmer:

1. Empty the Skimmer Basket Regularly:

   
   

   One of the easiest yet most important things you can do is to regularly empty the skimmer basket. When the basket fills up with debris, it becomes less effective, and the water flow to your filter can slow down. To empty the basket, simply remove the lid of the skimmer, pull out the basket, dump the debris, and replace it.

   
   

2. Check the Water Level:

   
   

   The pool’s water level plays a crucial role in how well the skimmer functions. If the water level is too low, the skimmer won’t be able to draw in water and debris effectively. Ideally, your water level should sit about halfway up the skimmer opening.

   
   

3. Inspect the Skimmer Lid and Gasket:

   
   

   Over time, the skimmer lid and the gasket (the seal around the skimmer) can wear out. Inspect them periodically and replace them if you notice any cracks or leaks. This ensures your skimmer remains fully operational and prevents water loss.

   
   

4. Clean the Skimmer Line:

   
   

   Sometimes, smaller particles or debris can get stuck in the skimmer line. If you notice reduced water flow or hear strange noises coming from your pump, you may need to clean out the line. You can do this by using a skimmer line cleaner or contacting a pool professional for help.

Conclusion 

Your inground pool skimmer is one of the unsung heroes of your pool’s maintenance system.

By continuously removing debris from the surface of the pool, it not only keeps the water looking fresh and clean but also reduces the strain on your filter and pump.

With a little regular maintenance and an understanding of how your skimmer works, you can enjoy a sparkling, debris-free pool all season long.

So, next time you’re lounging by the pool, take a moment to appreciate the hard work your skimmer is doing behind the scenes. It’s important to make informed decisions regarding anything related to your pool. This knowledge will bring you closer to your dream pool.

At Dreams Pools and Spas, we specialize in designing and installing stunning inground pools tailored to your unique vision. Whether you want a serene escape or a lively gathering space, our team is here to bring your dream pool to life.

Contact us today for a free consultation! Let’s discuss your ideas and explore our financing options to make your dream pool a reality. Visit our website or call us at (270) 558-5127 to get started.