Introduction
Above ground pool skimmer is a smart tool that helps keep your pool water clean. It sits near the top of your pool and catches leaves, bugs, and dirt before they sink. This tool is super helpful if you want your pool to look nice and stay fresh.
Every pool owner should know how to use an above ground pool skimmer. It is easy to set up and does a big job. In this blog, we will talk about why it is important, how it works, and how to choose the best one for your pool. Let’s dive in!
1. What Is an Above Ground Pool Skimmer?
An above ground pool skimmer is a small box that helps catch stuff floating on your pool. It grabs leaves, bugs, and even small sticks before they sink to the bottom. This helps the water stay clean and clear.
You place the skimmer near the top of the pool water. It pulls water in and traps the junk in a basket. You can take out the basket, throw away the trash, and put it back. It’s that simple!
Many skimmers are made of plastic and come in different shapes. Some hang on the side, and some float. All of them help in the same way.
Even kids can learn how to use an above ground pool skimmer. It makes pool care easy and fun. Skimmers are light and don’t take up much space, which makes them great for all kinds of above ground pools.
If you have a big pool or a small one, a skimmer still works great. It helps keep the water healthy and saves time cleaning later.
2. Why You Need an Above Ground Pool Skimmer for Clean Water
Clean water is happy water. An above ground pool skimmer helps remove dirt before it sinks and makes the water cloudy. This means you swim in clean, nice water.
When your pool is full of bugs and leaves, it doesn’t look fun. A skimmer keeps your pool looking great every day. You don’t have to clean the bottom often if you catch the dirt at the top.
Using a skimmer also helps your pool pump. If there’s less dirt, the pump works better and lasts longer. That saves money and time!
Swimming is more fun when your pool is fresh. An above ground pool skimmer makes that happen without hard work.
Also, having a skimmer means fewer chemicals are needed. When the water stays cleaner, you don’t have to add as much chlorine. That’s better for your skin, eyes, and wallet too.
Another reason is safety. Bugs and dirt can bring germs. A skimmer helps stop these from staying in the pool. So you get clean, clear, and safer water to enjoy.
3. How Does an Above Ground Pool Skimmer Work?
It’s like a helper with a little basket! An above ground pool skimmer pulls in water and catches things floating on top. It uses suction to move water through a small hole into the basket.
The basket inside catches leaves, bugs, and more. You take it out and clean it when it gets full. This keeps your water clear without much work.
Some skimmers connect to your pool pump. Others float and work on their own. Both types are useful in catching trash.
The skimmer works all day while you play. You just check it sometimes and keep it clean.
Many skimmers have a weir door. This small flap lets water go in but not out, so the junk stays inside. It’s a small part but helps a lot.
If you have a strong pump, the suction will be better. That means more dirt gets pulled in. A weak pump might need a floating skimmer instead.
4. Types of Above Ground Pool Skimmers You Can Pick
There are different kinds of above ground pool skimmer tools. One kind hangs on the side of your pool and connects to the filter. It pulls in water and junk as it floats by.
Another kind is a floating skimmer. It moves around the pool and catches dirt by itself. These are great if you don’t want to set anything up.
You can also get skimmers with small nets. These are good for quick cleaning when you see a few bugs or leaves.
Each type helps in its own way. Pick the one that works best for your pool and your time.
Some skimmers are manual and need your help. Others are automatic and work all day. Automatic ones cost more but save time.
If your pool is small, a net skimmer or floating one might be enough. Big pools need wall skimmers that connect to the pump. Choosing the right type helps you clean faster and easier.
5. Best Places to Install Your Above Ground Pool Skimmer
You want your above ground pool skimmer where the dirt floats most. That’s usually where the wind blows stuff to one side. The skimmer works better if it’s in the right spot.
Many people place it on the pool wall across from the water return. This way, water moves in a circle, and the junk floats into the skimmer.
If you use a floating skimmer, you don’t need to install anything. Just let it float and do its job.
Trying a few spots might help you find the best one. A good spot means cleaner water every day.
If your skimmer is not catching enough junk, move it around. You might find a better place. Every pool is different, so it takes a little testing.
A sunny side might be better too. Sunlight helps dry out the junk in the basket, so it smells less. Keep your skimmer in a good, easy-to-reach place.
6. Easy Steps to Use an Above Ground Pool Skimmer
Start by putting your above ground pool skimmer in the right place. For wall skimmers, clip it on the side and connect it to the filter line. Make sure it is at the water level.
Next, turn on your pool pump. The water will start moving through the skimmer. Watch it for a few minutes to see if it’s catching dirt.
Check the skimmer basket every day. If it looks full, take it out and dump the trash. Then put it back.
That’s it! Using your skimmer is easy, and it helps your pool stay nice without much work.
If you have a floating skimmer, just let it go. It will move with the water and grab stuff. You only need to check it now and then.
Also, if it rains or the wind blows strong, check your skimmer more often. A full basket won’t work well. Keeping it clean helps it do its job better.
7. How to Clean Your Above Ground Pool Skimmer the Right Way
Cleaning your above ground pool skimmer is easy and takes just a few minutes. First, turn off the pool pump so water stops flowing.
Then, pull out the basket from inside the skimmer. Dump all the leaves and bugs in the trash can. If it’s really dirty, you can rinse it with a hose.
Check for anything stuck inside the skimmer too. Sometimes small toys or sticks get in there.
Put the basket back and turn the pump on again. Now your skimmer is ready to work more!
Clean it at least two times a week. If your yard has lots of trees, clean it more. A clean skimmer works better and helps your pool stay nice.
Also, scrub the inside walls of the skimmer sometimes. Algae can grow there if it stays wet. A quick brush can stop that.
8. When to Replace Your Above Ground Pool Skimmer
Sometimes an above ground pool skimmer gets old or breaks. If you see cracks or it stops catching dirt, it might be time for a new one.
If the basket doesn’t fit right or water stops moving well, those are signs the skimmer needs replacing. Some parts wear out after a few years.
Try fixing it first. But if it doesn’t work, a new one will do a better job. A fresh skimmer keeps your pool happier.
Always check your skimmer before each swim season. Replacing it early saves time and stress later.
If your skimmer leaks or the suction is weak, it may not be safe to use. A broken skimmer can even hurt your pump.
New skimmers are not very costly, and they work better. Getting a new one can be a smart choice for a better pool season.
9. Fixing Common Above Ground Pool Skimmer Problems
Sometimes your above ground pool skimmer has little problems. One problem is when it gets clogged. Just take out the basket and clean it.
Another issue is low water. If the water is too low, the skimmer won’t work well. Keep your pool filled to the right level.
Leaks can also happen. Look for cracks or loose hoses. Fix them with pool tape or change the hose.
If the skimmer floats or moves, check if it’s placed right. A quick fix makes it work again fast.
Also, if the basket keeps popping out, make sure it fits right. Some skimmers need special baskets. Using the right one stops the problem.
If your skimmer makes noise, it could be sucking air. This happens when water is too low. Fill the pool and the noise will stop.
10. Best Brands for Above Ground Pool Skimmer in 2025
There are many brands that make good above ground pool skimmer tools. Some popular names are Intex, Hayward, and Swimline. They are known for strong and easy skimmers.
Intex makes floating skimmers that are easy to use. Hayward makes wall skimmers that last a long time. Swimline is great for quick cleanups with small nets.
You can find these brands online or in pool stores. Read reviews and see which one fits your pool best.
Good brands make your pool life easier and more fun.
Also, check for skimmers that come with extra parts. Some have hoses, clamps, or even nets. These extras help with cleaning.
Pick a brand with a good warranty. That way, if something breaks, you can replace it without worry.
11. Tips to Make Your Above Ground Pool Skimmer Last Longer
Keep your above ground pool skimmer clean every week. Don’t let the basket get too full. That helps it work better.
Store your skimmer inside during winter. Cold weather can break the plastic if it freezes. A dry, safe place is best.
Check the skimmer for cracks or leaks often. Fix small problems before they get big.
Be gentle when you take the basket out. Careful hands help your skimmer stay strong for years.
Also, don’t hit the skimmer with pool tools or toys. That can break it. Teach kids not to play near it.
Using a skimmer cover when not in use can help too. It keeps out the sun and rain and makes it last longer.
12. Final Thoughts: Above Ground Pool Skimmer Makes Pool Time Better
A clean pool is a happy pool. Your above ground pool skimmer helps keep it that way. It works hard so you can have fun.
With the right skimmer, your pool stays fresh and clear. Less dirt means more playtime and smiles.
Taking care of your skimmer is simple. Clean it, check it, and replace it when needed. That’s all!
Thanks for reading! Now go enjoy your clean, cool pool!
If you liked this blog, share it with your friends who have pools. A good skimmer can help everyone have a better summer!