What Does Skimming a Pool Mean?
Algae, debris, and other particles can mess up the PH levels in the swimming pool. That’s why properly maintaining the pool requires brushing and vacuuming the pool. Before all that, homeowners should skim a pool. But what exactly does that mean? And does it require special equipment, or can pool owners do it on their own? Find out everything there is to know about skimming a pool.
What is pool skimming?
Pool skimming implies cleaning various debris from the pool, such as leaves, flowers, insects, hair, etc. It’s an essential step to keep the pool water clean and ready for the next swim. There are various methods to skim a pool. Let’s explore them in the next section.
Automatic pool skimmers
Pools usually have two skimmers. These are special tools built inside the pool that ensure debris doesn’t fall to the bottom. Instead, automatic skimmers suck in insects, leaves, and other things. The skimmer pulls in the water together with debris when the pool pump is on. The debris then goes through the pivoting flap and ends up in the skimmer basket. When the pump isn’t running, the pivoting flap keeps debris from coming back into the pool.
The suctioning of the debris happens silently, and swimmers don’t even notice it. But without it, there’s a risk of bacteria and other contaminants piling up.
Having an automatic pool skimmer doesn’t mean it can’t clog. Emptying the skimmer basket is essential to keep it clean. Since it can be messy, most homeowners decide to call professionals who can do it quickly. If you can do it on your own, make sure to do it every day.
Manual pool skimmer
Some homeowners also opt for manual skimmers. Although these don’t require much energy, manually skimming the pool can be a tiresome task. Nonetheless, it’s still possible to clean the pool from debris using a telescoping pool pole and a skimmer net.
The problem is that this isn’t as effective as with automatic pool skimmers. Even if you do it daily, there’s still a chance of debris falling on the bottom of the pool, meaning you’ll need to vacuum the pool often.
Self-propelled skimmers
Although the most expensive option, self-propelled skimmers don’t attach to the pump. Thus, they don’t overload them. These units work with the help of solar energy, helping homeowners save on their energy costs.
Maintain the pool
Keeping the pool clean requires regular skimming, vacuuming, and brushing. Most homeowners decide to install automatic pool skimmers for their convenience. These tools gather the debris and keep the water in the pool free from sunscreen, insects, hair, etc. Other people use a manual skimmer when they don’t want to turn on the pool pump. Finally, there are also self-propelled skimmers that use solar energy as their power source. Whatever you choose, make sure to skim the swimming pool often.
East Coast Pool Care provides Tampa and surrounding area pools with quality pool and spa care with exceptional expertise at an affordable cost. We provide biweekly rates for cleaning and maintenance service. Other services we perform include troubleshooting, diagnostics and pool equipment repair, including pump repair, filter repair, pool heater repair, salt systems repairs, pool lighting repairs, and spa equipment repairs. We service fountains and water features. Emergency service is available. Call (813)755-8544.
