Your pool skimmer may not be the most noticeable part of your swimming pool, but it plays an important role in keeping the water clean and circulating properly. Every day, the skimmer pulls leaves, insects, dirt, and other floating debris from the surface before it has a chance to sink to the bottom.
When the skimmer stops working properly, however, you may start seeing more debris in the water, weaker circulation, or even problems with other parts of your pool system.
For Gilbert homeowners, catching skimmer problems early can help prevent a relatively small repair from becoming a bigger pool maintenance headache.
Signs Your Pool Skimmer Isn’t Working Properly
One of the easiest warning signs to spot is debris consistently floating on the surface even while the pool pump is running. While some debris is normal, the skimmer should steadily draw surface material toward the basket.
You may also notice weak suction at the skimmer opening. This can be caused by several things, including a clogged skimmer basket, an obstruction in the plumbing, incorrect water level, or an issue elsewhere in the circulation system.
Another problem to watch for is visible cracking around the skimmer itself. Skimmers are built into the pool structure, and over time the surrounding materials can deteriorate or develop cracks. Small cracks may allow water to escape and can eventually contribute to larger repair problems if ignored.
Keep an Eye on Your Pool’s Water Level
A pool that repeatedly loses more water than expected deserves attention.
Arizona’s heat naturally causes evaporation, especially during the hottest months, so some water loss is completely normal. However, if you find yourself adding significantly more water than usual, the skimmer area may be one of several places that should be inspected for a possible leak.
Water level also affects how well the skimmer operates. If the water falls too low, the skimmer can begin pulling in air instead of water, which can interfere with circulation and potentially create problems for the pool pump.
Don’t Ignore a Damaged Skimmer Basket
Sometimes the problem is much simpler.
A cracked or damaged skimmer basket can allow leaves and larger debris to move farther into the plumbing system. The basket is designed to catch this material before it reaches other equipment, so replacing a damaged basket is inexpensive insurance against unnecessary clogs.
The skimmer lid should also fit properly and remain in good condition, especially around a pool deck where people regularly walk.
Proper Circulation Starts at the Surface
Your pool’s filtration system works as a team. The pump moves the water, the filter removes contaminants, and the skimmer helps capture surface debris before it spreads throughout the pool.
If one part of that system isn’t doing its job, keeping the pool clean can become considerably more difficult.
If you’ve noticed weak skimmer suction, unexplained water loss, cracking around the skimmer, or more debris staying on the surface of your pool, Gilbert Pool Remodeling can help determine what’s causing the problem.
Keep your pool circulating and operating the way it should — call us today to have your pool skimmer and circulation system checked.
