O skimmer It is a valuable piece of equipment for any pool. Even though people, in general, talk more about stairs, handrails, hydromassage pumps, heating and lighting systems, the skimmer also deserves attention.
It also needs maintenance to function well and ensure its durability. And that is the topic of our article. Discover how to keep skimmer in good working order with our tips!
What is a skimmer?
O skimmer is equipment whose purpose is to collect and retain solid waste from the pool surface. Thus, it is what attracts and retains leaves, sticks, insects and other dirt that fall into the water and float on the surface.
The equipment collects this waste before it reaches the bottom of the pool. This way, it already provides a great help in keeping the pool clean for a longer time.
We must remember that it is these residues that, when submerged, begin to decompose and harm the chemical balance of the water.
To work, the skimmer it is integrated directly into the engine room. It generates a direct current, which flows from the surface to the filter and returns to the pool. In this sense, it plays an important role in the process of cleaning.
The process is almost like continuous vacuuming of the surface. But the skimmer There is a collection basket right at the entrance. Simply lift the lid located on the edge, remove the basket, wash it under running water to eliminate accumulated residue and place it back.
How to maintain the skimmer?
It is not difficult to do manutenção do skimmer: does not require much care or effort. Here are some tips that will help:
1. Empty the basket frequently
The clogged basket limits the flow of water to the pump. Consequently, the equipment's ability to remove surface dirt is also limited.
To avoid these problems, it is important to empty the basket at least once a week or whenever necessary. When cleaning, you must remember to turn off the pump.
2. Organize a pool care routine
Even though it is an ally in maintaining water, the skimmer does not dispense with regular chemical treatment of the pool. To use quality products and following a care schedule is important to keep the water clean, healthy and transparent.
A complementary form of treatment is ultraviolet, which guarantees residue-free, completely clean treatment.
3. Pay attention to the weather
O skimmer It is not immune to the elements, so it is necessary to pay attention to the natural degradation of the elements that make it up, such as the lid and the basket, to prevent them from breaking or falling apart over the years, causing problems.
With natural degradation caused by time, the pipes can become clogged. Therefore, structures must be protected so that slime or calcium scale does not accumulate.
4. Replace skimmer parts as needed
When necessary, change the covers of the skimmer broken to avoid injuries to feet and ankles and replace any baskets that have cracks to keep the set in good condition.
5. Clean the skimmer frame
In addition to emptying the basket, it is recommended to periodically clean the inside of the equipment box.
Leaving the inside clean at the waterline makes it easier for floating oil and dirt to adhere to the equipment, rather than to the edges of the pool, simplifying the job.
6. Keep an eye on the most common equipment problems
We also recommend staying alert to certain issues to avoid bigger problems. Always check these points below:
6.1 Insufficient water flow in the skimmer
Check the collection basket, pump basket and pool filter and see if they are clean. If there are valves to control the skimmer and the main drain, turn the valve to close other suction lines, leaving the main drain valve skimmer fully open.
Where the skimmer lose suction when a cleaning or vacuum hose is stuck, check that the hose is full of water before connecting and that there are no cracks that allow air to enter.
If there is still no suction, check whether the pump impeller and pipe are clogged.
Also make sure the water level is halfway up the opening of the skimmer, as a very high or low water level interferes with the proper functioning of the equipment.
6.2 Excessive debris on the surface
When you notice that there is excess debris floating on the surface of the water, and it is not being collected by the skimmer, assess whether the suction is adequate. After ruling out any problem with the water flow, evaluate the operation of the equipment cover.
6.3 Difficulty in removing the Skimmer basket
Assess whether the pump is off. If the basket is stuck with leaves and debris, remove them manually until the vacuum is relieved and the basket can be lifted easily.
If there is no dirt blocking the basket, it may be distorted; then use gentle lateral movements to gently shake it and remove it. If you still can't remove it, cut it with pliers and put on a new one.
6.4 Skimmer leaks
Skimmers installed in concrete pools are known for leaking after many years of use.
This disorder occurs because concrete and plastic expand and contract in different ways, creating a crack around the face of the material. skimmer. The simplest solution is to use an appropriate sealant.
How can Sodramar help?
Sodramar offers different models of skimmer for your pool. We have the wide mouth model, small mouth model, compact model, silver wide mouth model, narrow mouth model (BE) for masonry and narrow mouth model (BE) vinyl. These are products made from high quality thermoplastic (ABS).
Now you know some maintenance tips skimmer. By purchasing durable products, you will have even less work to do with maintenance. Take advantage of Sodramar’s ABS models!
And since you've seen how to maintain your skimmer, see now how to maintain the entire pool and save water!