An automatic pool skimmer is an ideal option if you’re sick of manually skimming and vacuuming your pool all day long in the summer heat. An automatic pool skimmer is a terrific method to reduce the amount of time you spend maintaining your pool while increasing your enjoyment of the water. Choosing the best above-ground pool skimmer for your pool can be difficult because there are so many to choose from.
We’ve reviewed six of the most popular automatic pool skimmers based on their various features and performance. We’ve also included a buyer’s guide that explains the varieties so that you can decide which is best for your needs.
Take a look at our in-depth analysis of automatic pool skimmers to learn more about the features you should consider before purchasing. Six automatic pool skimmers have been reviewed for your convenience.
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6 Best Automatic Pool Skimmer of 2022
Out of the thousands of products in the market today, we have reviewed 6 of the best pool surface skimmer in 2022. They were chosen from among the numerous types of pools and can be used in any form of a swimming pool.
1. Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim
Hayward is a well-known brand that always tries to give the best service to its customers. And the Dyna-Skim Skimmer from Hayward lived up to its name, as well. These skimmers have been updated to meet the needs of today’s above-ground pools while still delivering proven results on older pools.
ABS Construction
The above-ground pool skimmer has a large basket for collecting debris, and it is made of heavy-duty ABS that is resistant to the sun. There are two types of ABS: one is stronger, and one is more resistant to being hit. ABS is better at coping with very cold temperatures, but it can warp when it is exposed to direct sunlight for a long time.
Easy to Install
You can use it with any type of above-ground pool and includes tools for easy and efficient installation. It comes with a filter basket, a gasket, hardware, and all the parts you need to set it up in your pool. Hayward skimmers are very durable. If your pool has a lot of room at the top, these are for you.
Large Basket
It has a large basket to collect the debris easily. The Dyna-Skim skimmers have been redesigned to meet the needs of today’s above-ground pools while still being able to be used on older models of the same type of pool.
Pros
- Compatible in any type of above-ground pool.
- Very effective.
- Sturdy and resistant to corrosive substances.
- All installation tools are included.
- For easy cleanup, it has a large debris basket.
Cons
- It may not be suitable for all types of hoses.
2. Protuff Pool Net Skimmer Fine Mesh
One of the best pool net skimmer. Cleaning your pool can take hours each season, but with a ProTuff Pool Net Skimmer Fine Mesh, you can collect practically all of the material in minutes. It will also save you hundreds of dollars over the life of your pool.
Three Times Faster
ProTuff’s high-performance pool cleaning tools allow you to spend more time enjoying and less time cleaning your pool or pond. You won’t have to worry about spending a penny on a pool rake for the rest of your life. Calculate the return on investment.
Constructed with Aluminum Alloy Frame
With a lifetime warranty on all parts, ProTuff’s pool net is more expensive than the other nets on this list, but the business stands behind its product. You won’t have to worry about damaging your swimming pool because the frame is made of aluminum alloy, and the handle has “wings” that keep the frame from twisting when it’s being used. Also, it is sturdy enough to hold up to 50 pounds without bending or breaking.
Collects Massive Amounts of Debris
Big cleanup and clean-out jobs are no problem for your new ProTuff pool rake. This behemoth is unafraid of dirt, muck, or anything else you can throw at him. Spend less time opening and cleaning your pool and more time having fun in it with your loved ones by not wasting your time.
Pros
- Durable double-stitched bag
- Heavy-duty aluminum alloy frame
- Lifetime replacement guarantee
- Easy to use
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- A pool pole is not included, but you can easily get one.
3. SkimDoctor 2.0 Pool Skimmer Basket Turbocharger
If you want a pool skimmer that can do a lot of work, the SkimDoctor 2.0 is the best choice. People who like to swim in pools that get a lot of debris should use this skimmer. It can quickly clean up the mess so you can get back to having fun in your pool. If you live in an area where bad storms often blow debris into your swimming pool, this will be your best friend. It will help you clean it up.
Three Times Faster Cleaning
Up to three times faster than other pool skimmers, the SkimDoctor 2.0 collects floating debris and leaves from the surface of your pool before they reaches the pool’s bottom. This way, you can keep your pool clean. A cleaner pool and less work: You won’t have to skim your pool as often now, which means a cleaner pool and less work.
Cleanup is Quick and Dry
Wet hands while emptying a skimmer basket are a thing of the past! Using the SkimDoctor 2.0, you can lift your basket out of the water by grabbing the tower! With its mesh skimmer sock, you don’t have to worry about getting your hands wet or dirty while removing leaves, dust, pollen, bugs, and more.
Requires Less Pool Chemicals
Using SkimDoctor 2.0, you can cut down on the amount of chemicals you need to use in your pool by improving water circulation and making your inground pool vacuum work better. SkimDoctor is different from other products because it works inside your skimmer basket. You don’t have to look at it while swimming in your pool.
Pros
- Easy to set up.
- Make sure the filter is clean without putting your hands in water when you do it.
- Large basket for debris.
- Versatile model.
- It is made of strong material that will last long.
Cons
- Basket not included, but most baskets can fit easily.
4. PoolSkim Pool Skimmer and Pool Cleaner
Invest in this award-winning pool skimmer and automatic pool cleaning to keep your swimming pool top shape. Using the model, you may collect everything from dead bugs to leaves. Because it floats on top of your water, you won’t have to worry about constantly checking the level of your pool. You don’t have to worry about keeping your pool clean because the skimmer does it for you. You can use it if you have an above- or in-ground pool.
Self-Adjusting to Water Level
One of the best things about this is that it can adjust itself so that it can stay level with the water. You can be sure that it will always get rid of the trash. A good rule of thumb is to keep your water level between one-third and one-half up the swimming pool skimmer box. This could stop or slow down debris from being pulled into the skimmer box through the plate or valve.
Large Debris Bag
Debris is collected in a huge bag attached to the skimmer. You’ll save a lot of time with this skimmer if your pool is full of leaves or bugs. Connect the skimmer to your return pipe and watch the garbage flow to it as if by magic.
Reduces Workload on Filtration System
The PoolSkim collects surface debris before it gets to the skimmer box, making the filtration system work less and last longer. It also enhances the performance of all suction pool cleaners.
Pros
- Less workload on the filtration system.
- Simple design.
- Easy to set up.
- The net can catch most of the floating debris.
- Big debris bag.
Cons
- It is not recommended for fine debris.
5. POOL BLASTER Water Tech Leaf Vac
The Water Tech Pool Blaster Leaf Vac is the first leaf vacuum for residential pools that is battery-powered and can be used to clean up leaves. The Leaf Vac is all on its own. It doesn’t use garden hose pressure to get the job done. Instead, its onboard motor, safety clutch, and transmission work together to lift leaves from the pool floor and deposit them in its large debris bag.
Large Capacity Leaf Bags
The Pool Blaster Leaf Vac comes with an extra-large all-purpose leaf bag that makes it easy to pick up leaves from the bottom or surface of the pool. Leaves, twigs, and seeds fall right off the pool floor.
Easy to Operate
Using a push-button. There is no need for forced air, pumping, or water hook-up. Use it by hand or attach it to any standard telescopic pool pole. It’s easy to use. Weighs less than 3 pounds. Poles aren’t in this group.
Semi-Automatic Skimmer
This skimmer is not fully automated. It’s more like an “automated skimming machine.” Skimmers aren’t left in the pool for them to do their job. No pool pole comes with this. Instead, you attach it to the end of a telescopic pool pole and then dip it into the pool. You don’t have to skim leaves off of the water yourself in manual skimmers.
Pros
- Picks up leaves from both the surface and the bottom of the swimming pool.
- Easy to use.
- There is no need to install.
- Cordless.
- Helps keep the pH level stable.
Cons
- Leaky battery compartment.
- Not fully automatic.
6. SkimmerMotion Automatic Pool Cleaner
Besides being a pool skimmer, SkimmerMotion also cleans and clears the pool. Because it works with your pool vacuum, it can help you clean your pool a lot faster. What’s more, this high-quality pool skimmer is very easy to set up. Plug it into the outline of your pool, and it will start to do its job quickly.
Whirlpool Suction to Clarify the Pool
It cleanses the pool by generating a whirlpool suction that pulls and gets rid of debris from the surface to any corner of the pool directly into the basket—no need to use chemicals in eliminating surface particles. The debris and particles were removed before mixing in the water and reaching the pool’s bottom.
Moves in Parallel
Automatically moves in the same direction as your bottom vacuum cleaner, allowing it to reach places no other device can. It covers the entire surface of your pool. Removes particles and debris from the walls of the pool. It has reached places that no other device could.
Connects to the Pool’s Output Route
It is possible to link it directly to the pool’s output channel. However, this will significantly reduce the effectiveness of the pool.
Pros
- Cleans well exceeds one’s expectations.
- Applies whirlpool suction technology.
- Energy-efficient and affordable.
- Simple and elegant design.
Cons
- Needs a suitable vacuum cleaner.
What to Consider When Buying Best Robotic Pool Skimmer
We use the following criteria to select the best pool skimmers for each situation. Shop for a skimmer with these considerations in mind.
Adaptability to a Pool Type
If you’re a first-time pool owner, you may be wondering what all the commotion is about skimmers. However, the type of pool you have plays an important role in the effective installation of a skimmer. Skimmers come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
- Floating
- Solar
- Thru-wall
- Vacuum-compatible
Make sure you know what kind of skimmer will work best for your pool. Some types of skimmers have specific requirements like compatibility with a specific brand of vacuum. Others are quite versatile that they can adapt to any type of pool.
For instance, some skimmers are ineffective with inground pools, as they are connected through the pool wall. Some skimmers are connected via pool hoses compatible with above and inground pools.
Debris Capacity
What are you expecting to catch in your skimmer? Is your pool filled with rotting leaves? Alternatively, you may want to use a filter to remove any dirt or pollen before getting in the water.
Some skimmers use the suction force to draw in small bugs and pollen. Several of these have huge trays or baskets for collecting leaves and other heavy waste. Make sure you pick the right skimmer for your pool based on the most typical items in it.
Read more: Best pool vaccum guide in 2022 here.
Power Source
Bugs, dirt, and other debris are attracted to some skimmers by their movement in the water. There are, however, powered options. Skimmers driven by solar energy can collect leaves, hair, bugs, and other objects on their own. As your pool vacuum completes its cleaning cycle, you can use vacuum-powered skimmers to keep up with it.
Other skimmer types include those that use the pump’s input and output connections to operate. Filters and bags use suction to collect trash, stored in filters or bags until they can be emptied, and the process may be repeated.
Price
Investing a lot of money in your pool can assure that it will run smoothly year after year, but many buyers prioritize other things.
Spending a lot of money on a solar-powered skimmer might not make sense if your pool is above ground. In contrast, if you have an in-ground pool always littered with leaves, you may want to consider a solar skimmer.
Consider how much time you presently devote to manually skimming your swimming pool. A high-quality skimming tool can save you time and money, even if it only takes a few hours a week or a few hours a day.
Replacing an old or damaged skimmer basket or weir door might improve your swimming and leisure experience. Swimming in a pool full of bugs, hair, and grass isn’t something anyone likes to do.
It is important to consider the value of a skimmer and the device’s cost upfront. If you want to enjoy your pool for many years, you’ll probably want to invest in a pool skimmer.
It is important to consider the value of a skimmer and the device’s cost upfront. If you want to enjoy your pool for many years, you’ll probably want to invest in a pool skimmer.
Other Features
Adjustable
The hose buoyancy and incoming water pressure of your automatic pool cleaner should be adjustable to fit the shape and size of your pool.
Hose Length
Length of the hose Make sure your cleaner comes with a hose long enough to reach the far end of your pool from the skimmer box.
Climbing Up and Down the Steps and On Walls Capability
Make sure your pool’s cleaner can climb the pool’s walls and steps.
Pool Covers
Most cleaners cannot be used while a cover is on your pool, but others can – so verify if this function is necessary before you buy the cleaner.
What Is A Pool Skimmer?
Cleaning systems in swimming pools work together to make sure your pool is thoroughly cleaned. These components include a skimmer. It’s the first line of defense for your pool. There is no floating garbage in your pool, thanks to this device. Before entering the filter and pump, it is situated directly in front of them. Because of its appearance, it is referred to as a “skimmer” and can be mounted to a utility pole to remove debris.
How Durable Is It?
You won’t have to buy a new skimmer every few months if you use a long-lasting pool cleaning. Materials utilized to build and manufacture the best skimmer for a swimming pool sound sturdy enough. A good skimmer should be able to go for multiple seasons without replacing the pool’s filtration system.
Why It’s Important to Skim Your Pool
Skimming the pool eliminates the debris and particles that fall into the water. It helps keep your pool clean and safe to swim. Regularly skimming your pool can get rid of the unwanted and harmful chemicals in the water.
How to Install Pool Skimmer?
Installing a pool skimmer is not as complicated as you think it is. Follow the steps below, and you will have it installed fast.
- Attach the weir into the skimmer.
- Connect the vacuum port cover to the skimmer faceplate.
- On the pool wall, connect the gasket.
- Prep the skimmer faceplate.
- Connect the skimmer to the wall.
- Cut the liner.
- Add the skimmer accessories.
How Many Skimmers Does a Pool Need?
Depending on the size of your pool, you’ll need a different number of skimmers. Pool and Spa Professionals recommend that every 400 square feet of your swimming pool have at least one skimmer. An 800-square-foot pool requires two skimmers. That’s the typical size of a swimming pool.
Where Should Water Level be on Pool Skimmer?
The water level in your swimming pool skimmer box should be around one-third to one-half up from the opening. A larger than normal volume of material may be slowed or even prevented from entering the skimmer box by the plate or valve.
Where to Install Pool Skimmer?
A skimmer should be installed in the water’s circulation channel. Even with the rise in popularity of freeform pools, there are no hard and fast regulations about where they should be located.
Should Pool Skimmer be on All the Time?
Depending on the state of your pool, you may need to adjust the time you run your pool skimmer. However, it’s generally good to turn on your pool skimmer when the pump is running. You can turn on the pool skimmer for six to twelve hours a day. Almost all dirt in the pool may be caught by running the pool skimmer while the pump is running.
How to Unclog Pool Skimmer Line?
Here are the steps on unclogging the pool skimmer line:
- Shut down the pump.
- Open the pump and the skimmer.
- Draw a line to isolate the skimmer.
- Method 1 – Garden hose and rag – Insert the hose
- Method 1 – Garden hose and rag – Injector Suction Pipe
- Method 1 – Garden hose and rag – Turn the hose on
- Method 2 – Drain Bladder – Insert Bladder into Pipe
- Method 2 – Drain Bladder – Turn the hose on
- Check the Flow of Water by Running Your Pump
How to Use a Pool Skimmer?
The job of a pool skimmer is quite simple – make sure to collect the debris before they sink at the bottom of the pool. The use of a pool skimmer will depend on the type of skimmer.
Manual Skimmer
A manual skimmer is the simplest sort of pool skimmer. At the very end of a long pole is a net bag. The net is lowered into the water, and the pole is used to move it around so that it can catch all of the floating trash. The net is emptied, the waste is thrown away, and the net is put away.
Automatic Pool Skimmer
An automatic pool skimmer works without the help of a human being. It either attaches to the pool’s side or swims across the water’s surface to collect debris. Just plug it into a power source, turn it on, and it’s ready for use! All you have to do for the next cleaning is remove the filter cartridge and dump it once the pool skimmer has collected all the dirt and grime.
Solar-Powered Skimmer
Compared to automatic pool skimmers, solar-powered skimmers require even less human intervention. No external power supply is needed because solar-powered batteries power them. The only thing you have to do is switch them on, and they’ll take care of everything else.
Wall Mount Skimmers
Above-ground pools are the most common application for these skimmers. You must install a pool skimmer on the wall because these pools do not have an integrated pool filtration system. The skimmer must be connected to a dedicated skimmer outlet in most above-ground pools to gather trash.
Frequently Asked Questions – (FAQs)
How often should I run my pool skimmer?
You should do skimming every day to maintain a truly clean pool. You can run your skimmer for at least 6 to 8 hours a day.
How do I know if my skimmer is working?
Your skimmer should be making bubbles if the air and water are correctly combined. Your skimmer is probably fine if it’s making bubbles, so don’t worry about it. A simple break-in, cleaning, or readjusting may be all that’s required.
Why does my pool skimmer have no suction?
There is a good chance that your pool skimmer is clogged. Due to the low water pressure may jeopardize the pool’s entire filtration system.
How do you adjust a skimmer suction?
Effective cleaning necessitates precise skimmer suction adjustment. This does not necessitate any special training or expertise on your part. If you find a flow control valve in the skimmer’s basket, gently remove it. Make that the valve is working properly and isn’t obstructed by any obstructions. Check to be sure there isn’t anything wrong with it.
How do I raise my above-ground pool skimmer?
Make sure your skimmer is free from blockage and leaks to raise your pool skimmer. Remove the basket from the skimmer and remove the debris and leaves blocking the skimmer.
How do you turn a pool skimmer on?
Slowly move the handle in line with the pipe to activate the skimmer valves. Skimmers and floor drains should now be carrying water to the filter pump in this configuration.
Should I Use the main drain or skimmer?
You may need a higher suction level at the skimmer rather than the main drain to remove leaves and other floating debris from the water.
How to clean the pool skimmer?
The only thing you need to do is remove the skimmer’s cover, reach inside, and remove the basket. Finally, reinstall the cover on the skimmer, and you’re done.
Conclusion
After reviewing the 6 best pool skimmers, Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim standouts as our best pick. Installing and maintaining this automatic pool skimmer could be easier, and it’s built to last. It’s incredibly adaptable because you can use both new above-ground pools and older ones. Additionally, it provides excellent functionality and maintains the cleanliness of your swimming pool. With all the information above, it will be easy to find the best automatic pool skimmer and keep your pool pristine clear.