A pool skimmer is an indispensable part of the pool water circulation system that ensures the water is clean and clear. It works by getting rid of all buoyant debris from your water surface by utilizing the featured basket to trap debris before it gets to the pool pump. Unfortunately, all the debris occludes the skimmer and line to the pump.
A blocked skimmer line will not allow the skimmer basket to pull water into itself; it has no residue in the basket and can lower filter pressure below 10 PSI.
The purpose of this piece of article is to educate you on to unclog your pool skimmer line.
How to Unclog a Pool Skimmer Line
Follow the below-listed step-by-step guide to unclog your pool skimmer line:
- For your safety, ensure the pool pump is turned off before you commence the unclogging process. To prevent accidental and unwanted starting of the pump, defuse the main power supply.
- Try and locate the skimmer and remove the cover; the lid can be found on the poolside. Some other components are affixed to the pool deck on walkways.
- Quickly scan the skimmer line to note any sharp object therein; if it is free of all hazardous objects, locate the skimmer basket handle and empty the trapped in contents.
- Thoroughly inspect the basket holder to ascertain if it has a crack because the cracks can also accommodate debris, resulting in clogging. You’ll need a climbing snake for this process.
- You can utilize a garden hose in place of a plumbing snake. Attach it to the water supply, switch it on, and allow water to flow back to the water inlet. Observe if it discharges debris from the pressure, and then empty the port.
- When you’re done with unclogging, return the skimmer basket to its normal position and ensure all the components are correctly replaced in reversed order.
- Test run the pump once you reposition the unclogged skimmer basket and lid and observe whether it is working properly.
Pool Skimmer Not Pulling
If your pool skimmer is not pulling, various reasons could be responsible for the pool skimming system from performing its primary role. The only thing of joy about the problem is that the issue can be resolved quickly without expert or professional interference. The problem could be one of the following three points:
- The level of your pool water is either too high or too low
- The skimmer doesn’t get enough or sufficient suction to pull contaminants from the pool surface
- Problem on your skimmer flap which doesn’t allow the skimmer to trap debris.
Pool Skimmer Not Working Well
The pool skimmers are fixed to the swimming pool with the sole aim of keeping the water clean and ensuring the safety of the users.
If the skimmer is not working properly, it could be that it has become clogged with debris, preventing it from discharging its primary job efficiently.
A very high or too low water level, less suction power, problems with weir flap, airlock, or need for backwash can be responsible for the skimmer’s inability to perform well.