A pool skimmer is a unit designed for comprehensive water cleaning. For the most part, swimming pools are built outdoors. As a result, leaves, dirt and other foreign objects fall into the water. There are owners of such tanks who use awnings that protect the liquid from contamination. However, during the bathing process nothing protects the water from contamination, and installing a skimmer will help solve this issue without any problems.
Characteristics of such an installation
A pool skimmer is a plastic or metal tank to which a pipeline for water intake is connected. On the side of the outer wall you can find a window equipped with a floating shutter. The operation of the equipment is quite simple.
- Dirty water enters the unit through a side opening.
- A floating valve separates the lower layers of liquid from the upper ones (only contaminated water is purified).
- The liquid goes into the filter, where large amounts of debris stagnate.
- The water passes through the heating system and then returns to the pool.
For even more efficient work, a water vacuum cleaner is connected to the installation, for which there is a special connector.
Types of devices
Modern developers today provide a lot of variations of equipment for water purification of film and concrete tanks, which differ significantly. The skimmer for a frame pool has three types:
- floating;
- mounted;
- surface.
Floating skimmers
For fixed structures characterized by significant fluctuations in water level, floating devices are used. To install such devices, you do not need underground installation on the pool body; you just need a pump that will continuously draw liquid from the surface.
In principle, both a floating skimmer and a mounted skimmer for a pool work the same way. They are both devices independent of the water surface, equipped with additional sensors that automatically adjust to the existing liquid level in the pool. One such floating pool skimmer is designed to clean a water area of 25 square meters. m.
Mounted skimmer
Such devices are usually used in pools where there is no circulation system. These can be stationary, frame and prefabricated buildings. A mounted skimmer for a pool is considered equipment that allows parallel supply and intake of water within one building. This cleaning unit is mounted on the side and is suitable for almost any type of tank.
Mounted skimmers are more commonly used in prefabricated swimming pools. They are made from polypropylene plastic of good hardness. Such devices are mounted to the wall using an adjustable bracket. The advantages are: low cost, ease of maintenance and ease of installation.
This pool skimmer collects floating leaves and small debris from the surface of the water, which prevents debris from sinking to the bottom. While collecting the liquid, the fatty film is simultaneously removed. But to clean the bottom you need to connect a separate hand-held vacuum cleaner.
Surface equipment
This installation is a vessel, in the inner part of which threaded vaults are placed. Thanks to these contacts, it is possible to connect the pool to the water intake line. On the tank body there is a rectangular window with a floating shutter. Through this opening, water enters the system. Subsequently, it is heated and cleaned.
Technical properties of the installation
Before you start assembling a pool skimmer, you should familiarize yourself with the drawing. Usually the diagram is attached to the equipment kit. In addition, it is necessary to decide in advance on the number of devices. Boxes for distributing devices must be mounted into the container before pouring the structure. And if the device is specially equipped with an emergency water outlet system, the width coefficients will be much higher than standard equipment.
Required Tools
When installing a skimmer in a pool, we recommend using the following tools:
- hammer;
- perforator;
- self-tapping screws (5 cm long);
- screwdriver;
- level.
Work process
Here is the correct installation procedure.
Conclusion
The skimmer acts as a water intake with further cleaning in the filter. Pools equipped with such devices can be of several types: from inflatable to concrete. The installation provides multi-stage circulation, purification and filtration of water.
When planning and constructing a tank, it is imperative to calculate the installation of such a device from the side wall. But if you don’t want to punch through and break an existing pool, it would be appropriate to choose mounted cleaning skimmers. In any case, water purification equipment will forever protect the container from debris at depth and surface.
To ensure that the water in the pool is always maintained in good condition and never becomes dirty, you need to turn it on regularly. Passing through it, the water is cleared of debris and microbes, heated and returned to the bowl. And the first component of this system is the skimmer. Let's look at what it is and how to install a skimmer in a pool.
What is a pool skimmer?
A skimmer is a simple device designed to draw water from a pool, which then goes to a pump, filter and heater. In addition, most models have a mesh for primary cleaning of leaves and other large debris.
It is worth noting that the skimmer removes the top layer of water in the tank. It is also the dirtiest. To completely drain the water if necessary, bottom nozzles are installed.
The skimmer will also help you when cleaning the pool. Those models that are not equipped with their own filtration system are usually connected with a hose to the water intake. Thus, the water directly flows to the main filter, where it is cleaned.
What types of skimmers are there?
These devices are divided into two categories: built-in and wall-mounted. They differ in design and installation method, but the operating principle remains the same.
Built-in models should be included in the drawings before tank construction begins. They are used in permanent pools made of concrete, brick or blocks. It is not always possible to install such a skimmer in a frame structure or an inflatable one.
But there is a way out - mounted models of water intakes. They are made of lightweight material and have a special device for attaching to the wall of the pool. Installation of mounted models takes literally 10-20 minutes.
Skimmer installation
We have already touched a little on installing a skimmer in a pool, but it is still worth focusing on. Let's consider each type of model separately.
Installation of mounted models
There should be no problems with the installation of such a device. The kit usually comes with two types of fastenings - for frame and inflatable pools. You need to select the one you need, attach the mount to the skimmer, and then the entire structure to the pool wall.
Installation of a built-in skimmer
Such models must initially be provided for in the drawings and installed simultaneously with the pipes of the circular system. The installation method and its nuances differ for each model. You will learn about them in detail in the attached instructions. Here we will provide basic recommendations that will help you successfully complete the installation of a skimmer in the pool.- Read the instructions carefully before starting work. Even if you have watched videos on the Internet and installed other models of water intakes, read the recommendations from the manufacturer;
- Calculate the water level in your bowl. Next, install the skimmer at the desired height;
- Use only those fasteners and parts that come with the device. The use of analogues is excluded;
- You may need to use glue. Use the one specified in the instructions. Other adhesives will not work, even if they are waterproof.
The principle remains the same - strictly follow the instructions. Conscientious manufacturers describe in detail the entire process of installing the device.
How to choose a skimmer
Prices for water intakes have a fairly wide range of prices. Some models differ in cost by 15-20 times. How to make the right choice and not waste your money.
First, decide what type of device you need - built-in or wall-mounted. Next, calculate how much area the skimmer must handle and take into account the pool lining material. This directly affects the choice of model.
The area to be processed and adaptation to cladding is indicated in the model characteristics.
Small models work with pools of 25m2, wider water intakes - 35m2. If your bowl has a larger volume, you will need to install several skimmers.
Skimmer maintenance
Don’t forget that the water intake also needs regular attention. It may take very little time, but if this is not done, the circular system will be subject to heavy loads.
Since the skimmer has a mesh basket for rough cleaning, large debris will be retained in it. To fix it, you just need to open the top cover, take out the basket and rinse it thoroughly.
If plaque forms on the inner walls, it also needs to be cleaned off in any way convenient for you. But you should not use rough brushes and especially metal brushes; they will easily scratch the plastic, which is extremely undesirable.
We examined in detail what this device is, how to install a skimmer in a pool and clean it. With the right approach, this type of water intake will not cause you much trouble, and will help you clean your water every day.
A pool skimmer is a special device designed to effectively clean water from sebum, various debris, hair and other contaminants. You can purchase it, and if you really want, you can make it yourself.
The device we are interested in is most often produced in the form of a hollow container made of stainless steel or plastic. A special threaded connection is cut at the bottom of such a device. It is necessary to connect to the drainage main tank. A hole is cut on the side of the skimmer. Through it, water is taken from the pool and transported to heating and purification (filtration) systems.
The main task of a skimmer is to collect debris and other contaminants from the surface of the water.
In the middle of such a device there is a mesh, which is a filter for coarse filtration of liquid. This simple cleaning device can be made more functional by connecting a water vacuum cleaner to it (via a separate connector on the unit). Skimmers are available in two types:
- Mounted (floating). They are made of plastic and attached to the side of the pool. Often, mounted devices are equipped with a return pipe, which allows the skimmer to function both for the outflow of water and for its supply after the cleaning procedure. Mounted equipment is recommended for inflatable bowls, as well as for monolithic ready-made pools, when you do not want to disturb their waterproofing.
- Built-in. Such equipment is mounted directly into the wall of the pool during its construction. Built-in devices have holes for collecting water, which are equipped with floating dampers.
Floating skimmer
The built-in pool skimmer is installed by specialists. When installing it, you should take into account a lot of nuances. But the attachments are easy to install with your own hands. Moreover, both for frame and inflatable pools. Such skimmers have a special fastening. It makes it possible to select and, if necessary, adjust the height of the treatment device above the water level.
A small bucket (mesh) is placed inside the hanging tank. Over time, it fills with debris. Therefore, it should be periodically removed and washed under running water. A special float is installed at the top of the tank. It constantly fluctuates, which causes debris to be drawn into the cleaning device.
As you can see, the skimmer is a fairly simple device. At the same time, it guarantees effective cleaning of the water surface.
The cost of filtration units depends on the material they are made of, the manufacturer, equipment configuration and its technical characteristics. Stainless steel skimmers are always more expensive than plastic models. The most popular manufacturers of built-in pool cleaners are the following companies:
- Kripsol is a well-known Spanish brand that produces mid-priced equipment. This company makes devices for filtering water in swimming pools from high-quality ABS plastic.
- PROCOPI is a French manufacturer working for the average consumer. The company produces technical devices from plastic with ultra-durable properties.
- PAHLEN - expensive skimmers from a Swedish brand. All devices are made from alloyed special steel, which gives them unique durability. PAHLEN filter units are equipped with a full set of fasteners, sealing gaskets and additional elements.
Spanish cleaning device "Kripsol"
High-quality mounted cleaners are offered by the German brands MTH and MTS, as well as the American company Intex. In addition, there are a lot of inexpensive skimmers made in China and Turkey on the market. It is not recommended to purchase the latter. They are usually made of cheap plastic, which quickly loses both its beautiful appearance and performance characteristics.
The durability and trouble-free operation of the skimmer depend on the correct installation of the skimmer. Such a device is always installed without distortion, strictly in a horizontal position.
Built-in filter devices are selected for the specific pool lining. Some skimmers are suitable for installation in concrete monolithic structures, others are produced for installation under tiles, and others are suitable for installation under cladding made of film materials. You need to purchase the device that is recommended for a specific pool. Otherwise, it will not fully perform its functions.
Installation of the described devices (both built-in and mounted) can only be performed using hardware that is included in the skimmer kit. Do not use other screws or bolts in place of the original stainless steel fasteners.
Installation of a skimmer on a pool
It is advisable to install attachments on all sides of the bowl. Moreover, this must be done evenly (the distance between the skimmers should be the same). If you place purifiers in outdoor pools, they should be located on the windward side. Then the wind itself will carry the contaminated water to the filtering device.
Installation of built-in devices is carried out using a screwdriver, laser level, hammer and hammer drill. Remember that such skimmers must be installed in boxes that are prepared in a bowl in advance (at the stage of pouring monolithic structures).
A standard attachment can clean about 20-25 square meters of water surface. Knowing this, it is easy to calculate the total number of skimmers you will need to install.
If you don’t want to spend money on a purchased installation, you can try and make a homemade floating pool skimmer. We have described the operating principle of such a device, as well as its design, so this idea is quite feasible.
The body of the purifier can be easily made with your own hands from any metal or plastic container. The main thing is that its configuration is similar to a small bucket. Sealing elements should be placed along the edges of the container (use, for example, rubber).
Water purifier from a plastic container
After this, make a funnel at the bottom of the bucket and attach the mesh to it. The cells of this design should not be very small. Through them, water will be supplied inside the device and purified from various large contaminants.
Place several containers (very small in their geometric parameters) in the middle of the skimmer. You will pour chemical compounds into them, which will additionally produce. You also need to install a coarse filter in the homemade device. Making it yourself is quite difficult. It’s better to buy a ready-made filter, it’s quite inexpensive.
Don't forget to drill an outlet hole in your DIY filter bucket. You will insert a flexible hose into it, which you will connect to the circulation pump. The latter is necessary for constant circulation of water.
Install a floating skimmer that you made yourself. And always enjoy clean water in your pool!
It is known that 80% of all microorganisms living in swimming pools are found in the upper layers of water.
To clean these layers, special cleaning devices are used - skimmers, which collect the top layer of water and ensure constant circulation.
It is in the upper layers of water that all bacteria, fatty film, hair, dust and viruses collect.
With the help of a skimmer, these contaminants enter the filter, where they are cleaned and returned to the reservoir.
Also, thanks to this device, waves in the pool are well damped while people are in it.
Functional load
Main functions of the skimmer:
- collection of the top layer of contaminated water in the pool and its subsequent purification with heating;
- the device can be used as a socket for a hand-held pool vacuum cleaner;
- Most of the chemicals for the pool are placed in it.
How the skimmer system works
Design features of the device
The skimmer is structurally a metal (stainless steel) or plastic (high-quality ABS plastic) tank with a water intake pipe.
The steel version will cost more, but looks richer.
All devices are equipped with deep cleaning filters, which are visually similar to mesh buckets that trap insects, debris, leaves, etc.
The main structural parts of the device are embedded elements and a special mesh waste basket.
Contaminated water enters the skimmer through a special floating valve. Next, the water is purified and heated, after which it flows back into the pool or pond.
Thanks to the floating valve, the upper layers of water are separated from the lower ones, so debris and grease film from the surface of the water are removed more efficiently.
Thus, the main parts of the device are:
- bottom drain;
- intake nozzles;
- filtration tank;
- pump;
- automatic control unit.
How to choose the right device
You need to choose a purifier based on the size of the pool and its depth.
For example, a mounted skimmer is suitable for a small pool. If necessary, several cleaning devices can be installed at once.
Types of skimmers:
- built-in;
- mounted;
- the skimmer under the liner is mounted in a concrete or fiberglass pool lined with a liner (PVC film);
- installed under concrete in a stationary pool with mosaic finishing.
Using a hanging structure
One mounted skimmer can clean a pool volume of 25 square meters (or 20-40 cubic meters of water). If the pool is larger, then several similar devices will be required.
In the case where the pool is partially buried or is of a collapsible type, the cleaning device is hung on the side.
A plastic mounted cleaner is a great option for seasonal pools. All skimmer models are equipped with pipes for water intake and return.
The water intake hole is equipped with a damper. The movement of the float located at the top of the tank helps suck debris into the device.
You can install a floating (mounted) skimmer yourself.
It can be used for both frame and inflatable pools. The cleaning device must be installed at the required level using special fasteners included in the kit.
Using fasteners, you can adjust the location of the purifier relative to the water level. Each skimmer is equipped with fastenings for both frame and inflatable pools.
The package also includes adapters that allow you to connect the device using a hose to the filter pump system.
Installation of the Intex mounted skimmer in the video.
Built-in purifier and its installation
If the pool has not yet been built, then at the first stages of its construction it is necessary to provide for the installation of a built-in skimmer.
The built-in water purifier is mounted in the side wall of the pool.
Built-in cleaning devices come in several types:
- under tiles;
- for installation under film;
- for monolithic concrete pools.
It is necessary to select a built-in cleaning device taking into account the thickness of the pool walls. There are short and long neck cleaners, but you can buy attachments if necessary.
Purifier installation diagram
Installation of this type of equipment is not a complicated process.
All skimmer manufacturers provide installation instructions to help you install the skimmer quickly and easily.
The following are considered the basic rules for installing built-in:
- Do not replace the fasteners included in the kit with any of your own;
- Before installing the device, thoroughly clean and treat the opening;
- The purifier can only be installed horizontally; distortions must not be allowed;
- The height of the device cover can only be increased using two rings.
It is necessary to install the device so that the minimum and maximum level marks are in accordance with the instructions.
The video clearly shows the installation of the built-in cleaner.
Installation of a built-in skimmer for a concrete pool
Before choosing and installing a cleaning device in your pool, you must first calculate the required number of skimmers (based on 1 device per 25 square meters of pool).
If you install 1 cleaning device, then you will need a pair of nozzles to return water.
The installation process must be carried out in strict accordance with the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer of the cleaning devices.
Let's look at installation using the example of a concrete pool.
Most often, installation is carried out at the end wall of the pool, the inlet pipe is located at the opposite wall.
Before the process of pouring the wall, the flange of the hole must be insulated so that concrete does not get there.
Using special fastening embedded parts, you need to secure the device. The pipeline must be connected using sealing materials for threaded connections.
The skimmer is installed in the formwork using special protruding plates on the flange. The flange should be located in the center of the formwork, and the water surface should reach the middle of the hole.
The flange must be flush with the plane of the pool wall.
Now a film coating is applied, which should be cut along the internal contours of the front frame of the device. The pool itself is filled with water to a level that will be 5 cm below the location of the purifier.
In order to prevent possible subsidence of the cleaning device, it is necessary to ensure that the free space in the rear part is filled with sand.
An alternative would be to install skimmer supports, which will be supported by crossbars on supporting structures.
The protruding part of the pool base must be carefully adjusted along the entire perimeter to the walls, and it should also be fastened using a special fastening tape, which is included in the package.
How this happens, as well as the care and planting of the plant are discussed in our article.
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Bottom drain
The bottom drain is part of the pool water treatment system. It is designed to collect water from the bottom of the pool for the purpose of cleaning it using a filter.
In a pool that is equipped with a bottom skimmer (drain), water purification is carried out with the highest quality possible due to the fact that water is taken from two levels at once: from the bottom and from the surface.
The skimmer must be periodically cleaned of dirt ( at least once every two weeks with intensive use of the pool).
This can be done through the round top cover. You just need to take out the plastic basket, which is a pre-filter, and shake it out of debris.
Depending on how many trees are near the pool, the rate of contamination of the device will depend. This is also affected by the number of swimmers in the pool.
Homemade cleaners
If necessary, you can make a pool skimmer with your own hands. You can find out more details from the video:
Second option:
A pool skimmer is a cleaning device that removes debris from the pool (dirt, hair, sebum, etc.). If you do not use this element, the pool will become dirty very quickly and stagnant zones will form. The most popular types of skimmers are mounted devices. In this article we will talk about the features and disadvantages of attachments, about some models and how to assemble a skimmer with your own hands.
One of the biggest advantages of a mounted skimmer is its practicality and ease of installation. This device does not need to be built into the filtration system, but just needs to be hung on the inner side of the pool.
What is it - a mounted pool skimmer
Mounted models are more suitable for inflatable and frame pools, where the presence, for example, of a built-in skimmer is not provided. The device can also be installed in pools if a skimmer was not initially installed in your pool structure.
For good and uninterrupted autonomous operation, it is necessary to equip the skimmer with a return pipe.
Mounted models are mainly made of plastic, but sometimes they are also made of metal. The device works as follows: it draws contaminated water into itself (into a built-in special compartment), cleans it and returns it back to the pool.
The following advantages of the skimmer water purification system are simple assembly (no balance tank and overflow tray), as well as high quality water purification. But from these same advantages, disadvantages immediately follow, because in this case the pool must be very precisely designed, you need to work hard and very accurately position the skimmer holes. Also, the disadvantages include the watershed line, which will appear periodically, so you will need to remove it often. And the last very important disadvantage is that this equipment does not carry out deep cleaning and, in comparison with other types, purifies water more slowly. If the water in the pool is contaminated, then carry out.
The video shows how to clean a mounted skimmer:
Popular models
There are now a lot of different models on the market, sometimes even, at first glance, no different from each other. But, as you already understand, a skimmer is an important part of a pool’s equipment, so you need to choose one that will not break during the height of the summer season, that will work smoothly and efficiently. Some of the most popular and high-quality models are Intex, MTH sk2 and MTS.
Intex
These are American-made skimmers, with branches located in the Netherlands and China. Perhaps this brand is the most popular among consumers as it is distinguished by its high quality and affordable prices. The manufacturer recommends using the device with its native Intex pools, but this is completely optional. The element looks like a filter funnel.
Cost – 1545 rubles.
The device autonomously collects debris from the pool. The filter is attached to a filter pump (by the way, the pump must have a capacity of no less than 3028 l/hour). The device is easily attached to the sides of the pool, and the mesh flask can be easily removed and washed. The skimmer body is made of plastic and is quite resistant to chemicals. The product is durable in use. The dimensions of the device are 24 x 31 x 20 cm, the weight of the device is 2.1 kg. The cost of these products ranges from 750 rubles to 1,000 rubles. Pay attention to . Intext also produces other products. Find out about the sand filter pump for the intex pool.
MTH
This is a German manufacturer that produces frame pools and the necessary equipment for them. Read about the Intex pool water heater.
This company was the first to produce heating elements and filter cartridges. MTH skimmers are high quality, easy to use and do not have any special maintenance requirements. The MTH Sk 2 model connects under the gluing as much as 50 mm, has a throughput of up to 7 cubic meters per hour and processes up to 25 sq.m. The model is made of special ABS plastic and they only come in white. The skimmer is more suitable for small and small pools that are lined with either tiles or film. The devices can be installed on both wide and very narrow sides, and can also be installed over the side of the pool. Has a built-in coarse filter. You can turn on recirculation by connecting the skimmer and the pump, then the element will draw in water and transfer it to the prepared filter unit, and after cleaning it will be returned through the nozzles. The main feature is that there is no need to make additional holes in the bowl.
The cost of this product ranges from 7,500 rubles to 13,500 rubles.
MTS
This is another German company that produces equipment and equipment for swimming pools. This company has developed and created a new technology for fixing devices; they offer fasteners that are resistant to aggressive agents. This technology makes it very easy to dismantle the product even after a long period of use, and this technology also increases the tightness of the device. The models are made from special ABS plastic; it is not susceptible to the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays. The model has valves to separate the lower layer of water. It has a mesh basket, which is a pre-filter. The skimmer is suitable for water surfaces up to 8 m3. The diameter of the pipes with which the hose will be attached is 32 mm. There are others.
The cost of the product starts from 3,400 rubles and above.
How to install
Before you begin installing the equipment yourself, you need to carefully study the drawing; it usually comes with the purchased device. He will tell you about underwater lights for the pool.
After reading it, you should not have any questions about assembling the element.
In the video - mounted skimmers for intex pools:
There are also several rules that must be followed when installing the device:
- If you have an outdoor pool, then you need to install the skimmer on the windward side, so all the debris will independently fall into the cleaning system, thanks to the current that the wind will create. If you have an indoor pool, then you need to place skimmers evenly over the entire area.
- The skimmer is capable of cleaning up to 25 sq.m. water surface. Based on this, you must independently calculate the number of skimmers needed for your pool.
The mounted skimmer is very easy to install. It is mounted at the desired level on fastenings; the fastenings can be adjusted and changed relative to the water level. Each model includes fasteners for an inflatable and frame pool; they are quite easy to distinguish. A mesh bucket must be inserted into the skimmer tank (this bucket will need to be pulled out during periods of use and cleaned and rinsed with water). You need to install a float on the top of the bucket, thanks to the movements of this float, debris is sucked into the skimmer. Also included with the device are adapters with which the device can be connected to the pump. If you are setting up a swimming pool, then you may need lamps to illuminate the pool. He will tell you about a sliding pavilion for a polycarbonate pool.
How to make it yourself
It is very difficult to create a mounted skimmer with your own hands. There are many things to consider. The skimmer can be made of plastic or stainless steel. The bowl can be made from the following materials: plastic, polypropylene, metal, etc. The skimmer must also contain a rubber seal. It is this that ensures a high level of waterproofing of the bucket (bowl) itself. If you decide to make an element from stainless steel, then remember that such elements are more suitable for concrete and plastic pools or composite ones.
Plastic skimmers are more practical and are suitable for almost all models of pools.
on video: do-it-yourself mounted skimmer for a pool
You need to make a special bowl that will resemble a bucket, make a rectangular hole in it and install a floating valve. The rectangular hole should be a size that will support the dimensions of your pool. It is necessary to place a coarse filter in the tank of the device (it can be purchased separately). It is also necessary to install an adapter for connecting manual bottom cleaning systems (this can also be purchased separately). All of the above parts must be present in the skimmer and ensure normal operation of the device. Read how to make a bottom vacuum cleaner for a pool with your own hands.
So, let's summarize. A mounted skimmer is a type of cleaning device for swimming pools. The absence of a skimmer in the pool risks contamination and stagnant puddles. Mounted skimmers are very convenient, practical, and very easy to install. The most popular and reliable models are Intex, MTH sk2 and MTS. Making a mounted skimmer with your own hands is very difficult and can be done by specialists who understand this. But assembling a mounted skimmer is not difficult, relying on the operating instructions. You might be interested.