What is the role of a skimmer in a swimming pool?

The skimmer: the first line of defence against impurities

The skimmer acts as a veritable 'surface net' in your pool. Placed on the walls of the pool, just at the waterline, it continuously sucks up floating debris: leaves, insects, pollen, hair, dust, etc. This immediate action prevents debris from sinking to the bottom of the pool, where it would be more difficult to remove. Inside the skimmer, a basket collects the large waste, while the filtered water continues on its way to the pump and then to the main filter. The skimmer thus enables an initial mechanical sorting, lightening the work of the overall filtration. This system ensures clearer water, reduces the need for chemicals and contributes to optimal water circulation. A well-maintained skimmer therefore guarantees clean water in the long term. It is recommended that you empty it regularly, especially in periods of strong wind or in autumn, when there is an abundance of falling leaves.

A central player in the filtration system

The skimmer is much more than just a leaf trap. It is actually the entry point for the entire filtration circuit. When the pump is running, the pool water is drawn in first and foremost by the skimmers. This suction creates surface movement, drawing impurities towards the skimmer inlet. Once the water has been pre-filtered in the basket, it is sent to the pump and then to the sand, cartridge or diatomaceous earth filter, depending on the installation. The skimmer therefore plays a strategic role: it actively contributes to the quality of the water flow, the distribution of disinfectants and the prevention of stagnation. A blocked or incorrectly positioned skimmer can cause uneven circulation, dead zones in the pool or even overpressure in the filtration circuit. It is therefore essential to ensure that it is in good working order, but also that it is the right size for the size of the pool (generally one skimmer for every 25 m² of water).

Fixed skimmer or floating skimmer: which to choose?

There are several types of skimmer, each suitable for a specific configuration. The most common is the fixed skimmer, built into the structure of the pool. It is efficient and discreet, ideal for in-ground pools. For above-ground pools or temporary structures, floating or hanging skimmers are a practical alternative. They attach to the wall or float on the surface following the movements of the water. Although their performance is sometimes a little lower than that of built-in models, they are still very useful for seasonal use. Today, we are also seeing the emergence of motorised skimmers or surface robots, such as the iSkim Ultra from BEATBOT. This type of device combines mobility and autonomous suction, capturing waste as it flows with constant efficiency. It is the perfect solution to complement a conventional filtration system and guarantee water free of floating debris, even between cleaning cycles.

The role of the skimmer in the chemical balance of the water

A good skimming system not only improves the aesthetics of your pool, it also actively contributes to its chemical balance. By drawing water from the surface, the skimmer promotes even mixing, which is essential for the effective distribution of treatment products (chlorine, bromine, pH, flocculants). Without this circulation, some products may stagnate on the surface or fail to reach certain areas, reducing their effectiveness and increasing the risk of algae or bacteria growth. In addition, the surface layer of the water is the most exposed to UV rays, sunscreen, sweat and body oils. It is also where organic waste accumulates first. Thanks to the skimmer, these pollutants are captured before impacting the rest of the pool. This reduces the consumption of chemicals, extends the life of your filter and considerably improves the swimming experience. In short, an active and well-maintained skimmer means cleaner, healthier and more stable water. Regular maintenance for optimal efficiency Regular maintenance is essential for the skimmer to fully perform its role. The pre-filtration basket must be emptied at least once a week, or even more often in windy or rainy weather or if the pool is surrounded by vegetation. A full basket considerably reduces suction, causes unnecessary strain on the pump and reduces the overall effectiveness of cleaning. It is also necessary to check that the non-return valve is working properly: it is this that prevents debris from returning to the pool when the pump stops. From time to time, it may be useful to rinse the skimmer body to remove greasy or limescale deposits. In winter, it is advisable to protect the skimmers (with gizzmos or plugs) to prevent frost cracks. Simple but regular maintenance will extend the life of this key component and avoid unpleasant surprises in the middle of the summer season. If your pool is equipped with an automated or connected system, some skimmer models can alert you if the water level is too low or a blockage is detected.

The ideal additions for even more efficient skimming

While the skimmer is essential, it can also be supported by other tools for even finer filtration. These include sock filters (or prefilters) that are inserted directly into the skimmer basket to trap very fine particles such as pollen or dust. They also prevent hair or small debris from reaching the pump. For the most demanding owners, surface robots such as the iSkim Ultra from BEATBOT offer a smart complement to traditional skimming. These devices move freely on the surface, capturing moving impurities and thus relieving the fixed skimmers, especially in busy periods or after a storm. By combining mechanical skimming and a mobile robot, you can guarantee optimal coverage of the water surface. It is also an excellent way to prevent deposits on the water line, which are often difficult to clean once installed. Finally, the addition of a connected automatic water level keeps the skimmer working efficiently at all times, which depends heavily on the correct positioning of the water line in relation to its opening.

A small element with a big impact

Often discreet and silent, the skimmer is nevertheless one of the pillars of cleanliness and balance in your swimming pool. It provides upstream filtration, removes impurities before they become problematic, promotes better water circulation and even improves the distribution of chemical products. Whether fixed, suspended, floating or motorised like the iSkim Ultra from BEATBOT, its role remains fundamental. By taking care of this component, you avoid many inconveniences, extend the lifespan of your equipment and guarantee clear water day after day. Coupled with regular maintenance, good filtration and a robot vacuum cleaner or a bottom cleaner (such as AquaSense 2 or equivalent), the skimmer becomes a real ally in your daily life. It is not simply a question of watching it work, but of integrating it as a central element in your maintenance strategy. A simple gesture, but one whose impact on the quality of swimming is far from insignificant.